JAPAN TOUR
18 Days Japan and China Tour Package: Culture Meet Nature
Discover the Land of the Rising Sun
Duration
18 Days
Price From
$3,400
Tour Type
Private Tour
Destination
Japan
Tour Overview
Experience the best of Japan on this carefully crafted journey. From ancient temples and traditional gardens to modern cities and natural wonders, discover why Japan captivates travelers from around the world.
Tour Highlights
- This is the price per person, based on a group of 6 people, 4-star hotel accommodation, and travel during the regular season.
- Early-bird rates apply to bookings made at least 6 months prior to the departure date.
- The price is subject to change depending on your travel season, group size, hotel class, and potential fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
- If the weather is clear, you can enjoy a good view of Mt. Fuji. However, if the weather is not favorable, Mt. Fuji may not be visible.
- Early mornings often provide the best visibility before clouds obscure the view. Different locations around Mount Fuji offer varying perspectives, with some spots known for their clear views.
- Join a geisha tea ceremony in Kyoto.It offers a chance to see a performance by a geisha, experience the tea ceremony, and learn all about its artful rituals.
- Kyoto traditional kimono experience.Wear a traditional kimono and stroll through scenic districts like Gion or around Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. Enjoy photo opportunities and the feel of traditional Japan.
- United Kingdom (+44)
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1
Konnichiwa(こんにちは)！ Welcome to Tokyo, the capital city of Japan! Upon your arrival at the airport in Tokyo, your driver (not English-speaking) will meet you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel. You can have a good rest in your hotel and get ready to explore Tokyo with your guide the next day. As one of Japan and Asia’s largest economic centers , Tokyo is a hub for Japanese culture and art, with numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and cultural venues, serving as a vital platform for artistic activities and cultural exchanges. Tokyo stands as a significant base for technological advancement, nurturing numerous high-tech companies and innovative talents, holding leading positions globally in areas like electronics, automotive, and robotics technology. Situated at the southern e
Day 2
Full day explore Tokyo. You will visit Meiji Jingu Shrine (a Shinto Shrine; meet Japanese Wedding Procession), Shibuya Crossing (Hachiko, the loyal dog Statue), Senso-ji Temple (a Buddhist Temple; view Tokyo Skytree), Tsukiji Outer Market (Tsukiji Fish Market). First to visit Meiji Jingu Shrine (Meiji Shrine), a Shinto Shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) and Empress Shoken (1849-1914), who played a crucial role in modernizing Japan while excelled in writing Waka (traditional Japanese poems of 31 syllables in the pattern 5-7-5-7-7). Meiji Shrine is a popular venue for traditional weddings, where you will have the opportunity to witness a Japanese Wedding Procession , experiencing the charm of Japanese traditional culture. Founded in 1915 and finished in 1920, Meiji Shrine features
Day 3
Today, it will be a full-day round trip to admire the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from Arakurayama Sengen Park and Lake Kawaguchi . Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan. It’s a famous volcano with a perfectly symmetrical cone shape. Visiting Mount Fuji is essential for any traveler in Japan. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Fuji (3,776m) stands as an iconic symbol of Japan, a cultural and spiritual landmark (recognized as a holy mountain in Shintoism), and a natural marvel. When picturing Mount Fuji, its distinctive perfect cone shape and snow-capped peak likely come to mind. Among the most renowned depictions is Katsushika Hokusai’s ‘Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji’. Hokusai, one of the "Three Greats of Ukiyo-e", is best known for his m
Day 4
Today, you will take the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) to Kyoto from Tokyo Station . A driver will wait for you at the hotel entrance at the scheduled time and transport you to Tokyo Station . Shinkansen Ride : At Tokyo Station, board the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) bound for Kyoto Station (about 2.5 hours). This fast and comfortable journey offers a chance to enjoy the changing landscapes of urban and rural Japan. Tokyo Station , a prominent feature on the ¥10,000 Japanese banknote , is more than just a transportation hub, it is a historical landmark and a vibrant destination in its own right. As the main gateway to the city, Tokyo Station has played a crucial role in Japan’s modernization and economic development. Its impressive red-brick facade and intricate details are a testament to Japanes
Day 5
Today, you will experience the rich culture and history of Kyoto, from its ancient temples, shrines, and castles to its vibrant market and traditional district. Start your day with a visit to one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) – a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Zen Buddhist temple is famous for its stunning golden exterior. The temple’s stunning visual appeal comes from its top two floors, which are completely covered in gold leaf. The reflection of the golden structure shimmering in the pond in front of it, making it perfect for photos and quiet reflection. It was originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After Yoshimitsu’s death, as per his will, the villa was converted into a Zen temple by his so
Day 6
Start morning in Kyoto bright and early at one of its most iconic sites – the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine to beat the crowds. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, known as Senbon Torii (“thousands of torii gates”). Layers upon layers of vermilion torii gates line the lush, wooded hillside, forming a seemingly endless corridor. The vibrant orange and black gates contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery, creating a visually stunning and almost otherworldly path that is highly photogenic. Fushimi Inari Taisha was founded in the early 8th century (711 AD) and is primarily dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, sake, agriculture, and industry. As you explore the shrine, you will encounter hundreds of fox statues. Said
Day 7
Osaka , Japan’s third-largest city and a major economic hub, is renowned for its rich history, diverse cuisine, distinctive culture, and robust economic strength. The city’s unique sense of humor and open personality make it an exceptionally interesting place, more colorful than most cities. Acres of concrete are covered with dazzling neon lights and brightly colored storefronts. Osaka is a city that loves to eat, known as the "nation’s kitchen." It boasts a wide variety of culinary delights. Start your day at Osaka Castle Park , one of Japan’s most famous landmarks and a symbol of Osaka’s historical grandeur. Originally built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a powerful daimyo who aimed to unify Japan, it was the largest castle of its time. After multiple renovations and reco
Day 8
Your driver will ensure a smooth transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your departure flight. Nihao! Welcome to Shanghai , China’s most internationalized and vibrant city! Shanghai’s long-term fusion of Eastern and Western cultures has contributed to Shanghai’s unique culture. Upon your arrival at the airport/train station in Shanghai, the tour guide and driver will meet and greet you at the exit, and then escort you to the well-selected hotel in downtown Shanghai. The rest of the day is free on your own so you can have a good rest for the jet lag or explore by yourself around your hotel. Dining: Breakfast Accommodation: Shanghai Pudong on the eastern bank of the Huangpu River Pudong Night View on the Eastern Bank of the Huangpu River
Day 9
Today, your group will have full day to experience the perfect blend of East and West in the "Paris of the East." Explore brilliant museums, classical gardens, futuristic skyscrapers, and stunning architecture – all in one vibrant city. First, head to Pudong and the Lujiazui financial district, home to a trio of iconic skyscrapers. The Shanghai Tower , China’s tallest and the world’s second-tallest building at 632 meters (2,073 ft), soars with a dramatic 120-degree twist from base to peak. Ride the world’s fastest elevators (64 km/h) to the "Top of Shanghai Observatory" on the 118th floor, 546 meters above ground. Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, with the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center below. Later, visit the Sha
Day 10
On this day, you will have some free time till be met in the hotel lobby and escorted to the airport for your flight to Zhangjiajie (about 2.5 hours). Welcome to Zhangjiajie , an incredible place where you can see Avatar Hallelujah Mountain in reality! Upon your arrival in Zhangjiajie, the local driver will greet you at the exit of the airport, and then escort you to your hotel in Wulingyuan Area. Enjoy some free time on your own after the hotel check-in. Dining: Breakfast Accommodation: Zhangjiajie Welcome to Zhangjiajie Airport Zhangjiajie Airport with Tianmen Mountain Background
Day 11
After breakfast, you will have a whole day to explore Wulingyuan Scenic Area , a spectacular island of nature dominated by more than 3,000 narrow quartz sandstone pillars. First, take a sightseeing bus to Bailong Elevator that within 1.5 minutes you can go from the valley bottom up to the pillar peak. It is the fastest and as well as the tallest outdoor elevator in the world. Next, enjoy the hike into a mysterious Pandora World – Yuanjiajie , where is rightly the shooting location of “Hallelujah Mountains” in reality. Catch the chance to shoot South Sky Pillar, the landmark of Yuanjiajie, about 150 meters high vertically rising high from the deep valley, looking like a giant standing so upright under heaven. Go to the Enchanting Platform for a marvel at the unbelievable scenery with hundre
Day 12
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon for the breathtaking Grand Canyon Glass Bridge experience. The Grand Canyon Glass Bridge wants to say “hello” to you and makes you yell “my god” to give a deeper impression of Zhangjiajie. Suspended between two peaks, the glass bridge is 430 meters long and 300 meters high, which is the longest and highest glass bridge in the world. Standing on the transparent glass is like floating in the air and you can have superb panoramic view of the entire Grand Canyon. After your “tremble” on the glass bridge, move to the Baofeng Lake to do a scenic cruise to bring you back to peace. Surrounded by green trees and stone peaks of various shapes, Baofeng Lake is an idyllic place for relaxation. When leisurely cruising on th
Day 13
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel lobby. Today, you will make a breathtaking visit to Tianmen Mountain , one of the world’s most beautiful mountains. You won’t miss the chance to experience the world’s longest cable car, walk on the glass skywalk, and pay a visit Heaven’s Door and view Avenue toward Heaven with 99 turns. First, go to take the 30-minute cable car with 7,455 meters in length which means you’ll travel from the city of Zhangjiajie to the top of Tianmen Mountain. From the cable car you will have a perfect view of Heaven’s Door and a shocking look at the wandering Avenue toward Heaven. Next, move to Tianmen Temple where you can enjoy the typical Qing Dynasty styled Buddhist structure with verdant forest surrounding by. Now, the challenge time
Day 14
After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. Drive about 40km (about 1 hour) to uncover one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world – the Terracotta Army Museum , built by the first emperor of China, Qin Shihuang, to protect him in the afterlife. Around 8,000 vivid life-size Terracotta Warriors have been found so far. First, visit the largest and most imposing pit, believed to contain over 6,000 terracotta figures of soldiers and horses. You will be amazed by this subterranean life-size army of thousands standing silently to guard the emperor. Marvel also at the fabulous artistic skills of ancient Chinese artisans. Next, move to another pit where you can see around 1,300 warriors and horses. Examine the ancient army formation, including the k
Day 15
This morning, you will go to visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda , one of Xi’an’s most recognizable landmarks and symbol of the magnificence of the Tang Dynasty. This seven-story pagoda standing in the tranquil Da Ci’en Temple is one of China’s best examples of a Tang-style pagoda (squarish rather than round). It was completed in AD 652 to house Buddhist sutras brought back from India by the monk Xuan Zang. His travels inspired one of the best-known works of Chinese literature, Journey to the West. Later, you will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant and bustling Muslim Quarter (Muslim Street). This historic quarter, situated just behind the Drum Tower about 430 meters west of the Bell Tower in downtown Xian, has been around for over 1,000 years. After the tour, you will be tran
Day 16
Today you will spend the whole day exploring the ancient citadel of Beijing through China’s famous landmarks, imperial grandeur, and royal gardens. After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel and head to Tiananmen Square , the world’s largest public square and symbol of China. It has witnessed many major events in China’s history over the past decades, and from here you can take great photos of Tiananmen Gate, seen daily on CCTV News. Walking across the square, you will visit the mighty and splendid Forbidden City , the world’s largest palace complex and former home of 24 Chinese emperors. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Forbidden City has about 500 years of history, serving as the political and ritual center of China during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-19
Day 17
In this morning, you will head northwest of Beijing (about 1.5-2 hours’ drive, 73km) to the Great Wall at Mutianyu . The Great Wall boasts a history over 2,000 years and stretches more than 3,000 miles across several provinces of northern China, making it one of the most impressive ancient masterpieces on the planet. Mutianyu Great Wall is connected with the Jiankou Great Wall in the west and the Gubeikou Great Wall in the east. Mutianyu is the longest and best fully-restored Great Wall with fewer tourists and is also famed for its 23 Ming-era watchtowers and stunning views. Take the cable car up to the 14th watchtower and then enjoy the memorable hiking time on the wall while visiting its western route. With the green pines and cypresses covering the surrounding area, and the winding wall
What’s Included & What’s Excluded
It is time to end your 18-day Japan China tour . You will have some free time in Beijing and explore more on your own till be escorted to the airport/train station for your flight or high speed train to your next destination. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey! Dining: Breakfast Accommodation: None What’s Included & What’s Excluded What's Included: Guide Service : English-speaking tour guide. Attraction Tickets : All entrance fees to the sites listed in the itinerary. Transportation: Airport transfers on arrival and departure. Private Vehicle for city sightseeing tours. Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets. Accommodation: Hotels are listed
Ready to Explore Japan?
Contact us for availability, customizations, or any questions about this itinerary.