Japan's Classics and World Expo 2025

  • Duration : 11 days
  • Locations : Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka

This tour will take you to the must-visit destination of Japan. First, explore the electrifying fusion of ancient and modern in Tokyo, where TeamLab Planets' interactive art awaits. 

Next, dive into Osaka's infectious energy and delectable street food before your exclusive 2-day access to the World Expo 2025 Osaka. This year’s theme “Design Future Society for Our Lives” reflects the main purpose of World Expositions : presenting new technologies that will make our lives better. 

With the goals of reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, the World Expo 2025 Osaka will become a key platform for innovation in a variety of fields. Don’t miss out on the biggest event of 2025!

Finally, finish your tour in the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto, where magnificent temples and charming streets are waiting to be explored.


11-day itinerary

  • Departure city/Airport : Tokyo (Narita : NRT or Haneda : HND)
  • Tokyo (3 nights)
  • Osaka (4 night)
  • Kyoto (3 nights, including 1 day trip in Nara)
  • Return city/Airport : Kyoto (Kansai International Airport : KIX)

Please find below the itinerary details.

Tour length : 10 nights / 11 days (+ 1 day at the beginning if you leave from Europe)

PLEASE NOTE: The departure and end dates shown on this page only apply to your stay in Japan. You must therefore leave Europe the day before the first day of your tour. The date of your return flight and that of your return to Europe are identical due to the time difference.

Example : 

  • Departure from Europe : January 1st
  • Arrival in Tokyo (= the date to be selected in the calendar when booking) : January 2nd
  • Return flight from KIX airport / Return to Europe : January 12th

Please note that flights are not included in the price of your tour.

This tour information was last updated on June 25, 2024.


Why choose this trip to Japan ?

  1. Welcomed at the airport by our team, you will be taken to your hotel in Tokyo by shuttle bus
  2. Settle in the heart of Tokyo in your 3* hotel chosen for its comfort and location
  3. Tickets for the world-famous TeamLab Planets interactive museum
  4. Travel by shinkansen to Osaka and discover the gastronomic capital of Japan
  5. Take advantage of your tickets for the Osaka World Expo 2025
  6. Get the most out of your transportation pass and use it to visit Tokyo and the Kansai region
  7. In Kyoto settle in your 3* hotel that combines Japanese and Western styles
  8. Enjoy unlimited internet access thanks to your pocket WiFi
  9. If needed, contact our bilingual Japanese/English-speaking assistance team available 7/7
  10. A number of guided days or other optional activities are available
  11. On the final day, a shuttle bus will take you from your accommodation to the airport
  12. Benefit from the expertise of Japan Experience, the leading European travel agency in Japan

Your trip in detail

Program

  • Day 1 : Wake up in Tokyo 東京

    Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita NRT or Haneda HND).
    Welcome to Japan! 日本へようこそ!

    Welcome through customs by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi.
    Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo (see details).

    The transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other guests departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival, and stops may be made before your hotel.

    If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option.

    Check in at Hotel OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).

  • Day 2 : First steps in the capital

    What to do in Tokyo on your first day

    Start your exploration in Harajuku, a hotbed of avant-garde fashion: eccentric boutiques, Japanese pancakes and the legendary Takeshita-dôri street await you. Nearby, nestled in the middle of a forest in the heart of the city, find peace at the Meiji Jingu shrine.

    In the afternoon, head for Omotesandô, Tokyo's Champs-Élysées, for a shopping spree before heading to the Shibuya crossroads, famous for its incessant ballet of pedestrians.

    Don't forget to sample the local culinary specialities throughout the day!

    One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Tokyo (optional, from 9am to 5pm).

  • Day 3 : The big loop

    For this second day of sightseeing in Tokyo, we recommend the following "loop". 

    Leave Tokyo Central Station and immerse yourself in the chic Ginza district, with its luxury boutiques and refined restaurants. Next, head to the open-air Tsukiji market for a festival of flavours.

    In the afternoon, discover Asakusa, a traditional district and place of pilgrimage, and visit the Sensô-ji Buddhist temple, the oldest in the capital. Finish your day in style by climbing to the top of the Tokyo Skytree for a breathtaking panoramic view of the whole of Tokyo.

    Why not add a cruise between Hama-rikyû and Asakusa? 

    TeamLab Planets is THE place finish your day in style. This one-of-a-kind digital museum in Tokyo promises a mind-bending journey into the future of art. With your included entry tickets, prepare to be swept away by interactive installations inspired by nature's beauty and evolution. 

    The acclaimed museum's goal is to create interactive artworks, bringing together different disciplines, particularly video mapping, and inspired by the elements of nature, its movements and evolutions.

  • Day 4 : First steps in the capital of Kansai

    Take a shinkansen to Osaka and immerse yourself in its history with a visit to the medieval castle, its gardens and its cherry blossom trees in bloom during April.

    Then head for the city centre and Nakanoshima Island for a striking contrast between skyscrapers and rose gardens. Continue your exploration with a nature break in Utsubo Park, a haven of peace in the heart of the business district.

    Shopaholics will find what they're looking for in Umeda, a veritable temple of Japanese boutiques. Finish your day by climbing to the top of the Umeda Sky Building for a breathtaking panoramic view of the whole of Kansai, and even Kyoto on a clear day! 

  • Day 5 : Gastronomic introduction

    For your second day in Osaka, we recommend the following itinerary :

    Explore the depths of the sea at the Osaka Kaiyûkan aquarium, the largest in the world in terms of volume. Then head to the Tennôji district for an immersion in Japanese culture with a visit to the Shitennô-ji Buddhist temple, one of the oldest in the country.

    For a unique relaxation experience, visit Spa World, Japan's largest thermal baths. Let yourself be transported by the retro atmosphere of Shinseikai, then plunge into the technological world of DenDen machi, the technogeeks' village.

    Continue your evening in Dôtonbori, Japan's liveliest district, renowned for its restaurants, bars and neon signs. Don't forget to try the local culinary specialities, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki! 

  • Day 6 : World Expo 2025 Osaka

    Immerse yourself in the future at the World Expo 2025 Osaka! With exclusive 2-day access, delve into groundbreaking exhibits, explore captivating global pavilions, and witness live performances that redefine technology and culture.

     

     

     

     

  • Day 7 : World Expo 2025 Osaka

    Day two at the World Expo 2025 Osaka! Buckle up for another day of groundbreaking exhibits and cultural wonders.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Day 8 : Heading for the old capital

    Board a train and whisk yourself away on a short journey from Osaka to Kyoto, where you'll discover the captivating history of Japan's old capital (40 minutes, included in your package). 

    In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the historic Gion district. Start by climbing the steps leading up to the Kiyomizu-Dera temple, admiring its spectacular architecture and taking in the panoramic view over the city.

    Then lose yourself in the picturesque lanes of Sannen-zaka and Ninnen-zaka, lined with traditional houses and craft shops. Finish your visit with a stop at Kôdai-ji temple, famous for its maple trees, which blaze with colour in autumn, and its bamboo forest. 

  • Day 9 : Kyoto

    Start your day by immersing yourself in the Zen garden of Ryôan-ji temple, admiring its harmoniously arranged stones. Next, head for Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and marvel at its resplendent architecture. Continue on to Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion, and appreciate its elegance.

    Then take the Path of Philosophy, a footpath lined with cherry blossom trees in spring, and enjoy a contemplative stroll. Finish your day with a visit to Nanzen-ji temple, a Buddhist complex surrounded by Zen gardens and bamboo groves. 

    One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on a tour of these iconic sites (available as an option, from 9am to 5pm).

  • Day 10 : Between temples and deer

    On your last day, head for Nara, Japan's ancient capital, a 50-minute train ride away (included in your package). Immerse yourself in history at the Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine, admiring its thousands of vermilion-red lanterns. 

    Next, head for Tôdai-ji, a Buddhist temple housing a huge bronze Buddha and the imposing Nan-Daimon Gate. Finish your exploration of Nara with Kôfuku-ji temple and its ravishing pagoda.

    On your return to Kyoto, stop off to watch the sun set at the Fushimi Inari-taisha, a unique Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of red torii

    If you wish to be accompanied on this day, one of our English-speaking guides will reveal all the secrets of Japan's first capital (optional).

  • Day 11 : Sayonara, and see you next time!

    Take a direct transfer to Kansai International Airport (included but not accompanied).

    Return flight to your home country.

    Don't hesitate to extend your trip by a few days, in the Kansai area or elsewhere...Get in touch and we would be happy to advise you!

     

     

     

    Included in your self-guided tour

  • Accommodation

    - 3 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of Tokyo

    - 4 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of Osaka

    - 3 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of Kyoto

    The basic rate is based on a twin room for two people.

  • Transport

    - Airport transfer to Tokyo HND or NRT

    - Return airport transfer Kyoto > Kansai International Airport KIX

    - Prepaid public transport card

    - Tokyo Metro pass 3 days 

    - Shinkansen tickets for Tokyo > Osaka, seats reserved in standard class

    - Kansai Area pass 3 days

  • Experiences and meals

    - Airport meet and greet 

    - 2-day tickets for the World Expo 2025 Osaka

    - Tickets for TeamLab Planets

    Additional services

  • Additional services

    - Unlimited internet access with Pocket WiFi

    - Complete digital travel guide sent before your departure

    - Telephone assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Japanese bilingual. The number will be given to you in your travel pack. This phone number is valid for telephone calls and also for WhatsApp.

  • Not included in the price of your tour

    - Flights Europe <> Japan

    - Optional insurance

    - Personal expenses, including meals (breakfasts can sometimes be added as an option at your hotel reception, see details). For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack.

    - Public transport once your transport cards have run out (see details)

    - Everything not mentioned in the section "Included in your tour".

More about your trip

Your tour :

  • The prices displayed on this page may vary according to the exchange rate of the Japanese ¥.
  • Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
  • Children and babies accepted. From 3 to 11 years old a child rate is offered. In each accommodation, a standard adult bed will be offered to them, and a standard seat will be allocated to them in transport. From 0 to 2 years old inclusive, a "baby" rate is offered. This price corresponds to the allocation of a cot in the majority of the accommodation of the chosen circuit. However, we cannot guarantee a baby cot in each accommodation.
  • Pets are not allowed.
  • This programme is subject to change due to circumstances such as weather conditions or any other case of force majeure. Please note that due to the current circumstances, any information mentioned is subject to change or modification.
  • Your travel documents will be given to you as follows:
    • Travel diary by email 3 weeks before departure, and other electronic documents 
    • Paper documents (airport transfer ticket, transportation card, Kansai Area pass voucher) and Pocket WiFi upon arrival at the airport by our airport assistant.
  • Note: In very rare cases, mostly in very high season, steps might be reversed. You will be informed in your mini travel-guide. Thanks for your kind understanding.

Your accommodation :

  • Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the city and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the booking price. Normally, it is 200¥/night/person (about £1.37/1.93$) but can be slightly higher in 4* hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception. For traditional Japan Experience accommodations, it is included in the initial tour price.
  • Room size: in Japan, a densely populated country where everything is compact, 3-star luxury hotels are of very good quality but the rooms are often quite narrow (12 to 20m2/129 sq ft to 215 sq ft) depending on the hotel. Please note the size of the single room, between 10 and 16m2 (107sq ft and 172 fq ft). For more comfort, you can choose our luxury 4* accommodation upgrade option. 
  • Double room: Rooms for two people in western hotels have 2 single beds (twin rooms) by default, which can usually be joined together. As an option, you can select a double room instead of a twin if you prefer a double bed.
  • Single room: People travelling alone and wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. The single room supplement is compulsory for orders with an odd number of participants. 
  • 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, a triple room will be allocated to you.
  • In the case of a group order (> 5 people), it is possible, depending on hotel availability, that not all members of the group will be accommodated in the same hotel. Nevertheless, we aim to keep you close. 
  • Names of the hotels: The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled. Hotels, corresponding to local standards, are given as an indication and may be changed on site for hotels of a similar category.

Your transport :

  • Flights are not included in this tour. Do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to include flights in your order: flights in economy class with stopovers or direct flights, eco-premium or business air upgrades, provincial departures or abroad: we will be able to advise you.
  • The tour departure and end dates presented on this page relate to your stay in Japan. You will arrive in Japan via Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airports) and depart from Kansai airport (KIX, not Itami ITM). On departure, you will have to leave the day before Europe and land at 6:30 p.m. at the most to make the most of the airport services of your circuit (reception and transfer to Tokyo). The return flight is on the same day due to the time difference, with a departure time of 9am at the earliest. Please do not hesitate to consult us for any uncertainty or need for precision in the choice of international flights.
  • If the flights have been purchased by your care without the intervention of Japan Experience, it is necessary to send us by mail 1 month before your departure your flight information (flight number, airport, date and time of arrival) to allow us organise your welcome and airport transfer.
  • Airport Transfers: The shared limousine bus leaves from the airport and stops either in front of your hotel or at a stop within 1-15 minutes walk from your hotel. Our airport assistant in Tokyo will drive you to the platform to pick up the airport transfer. The transfer to the hotel is unassisted. If you wish to be accompanied from the airport to your hotel reception, please choose the option "Accompanied Airport Transfer". This transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other clients leaving for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers leave between 1.5 and 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival and stops can be made before your hotel. If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the actual arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option. Please note: due to the many changes in flight schedules by the airlines, if the airline notifies you of a change in arrival time less than 72 hours before your departure, and if it exceeds 45 minutes, we cannot guarantee your airport shuttle. You will then have to take a taxi at your own expense, requesting a refund from your airline for abusive schedule changes. The same applies to your return journey: 72 hours before your return flight, we cannot change the shuttle schedule. Similarly, you will have to take a taxi booked with the hotel, at your own expense, with reimbursement procedures with the airline company being the only solution. Japan Experience is not responsible for last minute schedule changes. The same applies to the return trip from Kyoto to KIX airport.
  • Included in your tour is a pre-charged transport prepayment card of ¥ 1,500 (around £10.30 / 14.54$) (Suica or Pasmo brand), a Tokyo Metro pass 3 days, Shinkansen tickets for Tokyo > Osaka (seats reserved in standard class), a Kansai Area pass 3 days. These cards should cover a large part of your trips during the stay. Upon expiry of the 1,500¥ pre-paid transport card, or if the line you are travelling on is not covered by your Tokyo Metro Pass and Kansai Area pass, any travel will be at your own expense by recharging your pre-paid transport card (at vending machines in all stations and metro stations). 

Your activities :

  • Airport reception is in English. Your airport assistant will be waiting for you at the customs exit holding a sign with the name of the reservation. They will give you your travel documents and take you to your airport transfer. They will not accompany you to Tokyo (this is possible, but optional).
  • Step into the future of art at TeamLab Planets, Tokyo's digital museum, a true one-of-a-kind experience. The acclaimed museum's goal is to create interactive artworks, bringing together different disciplines, particularly video mapping, and inspired by the elements of nature, its movements and evolutions.
  • Immerse yourself in the future at the World Expo 2025 Osaka! With exclusive 2-day access, delve into groundbreaking exhibits, explore captivating global pavilions, and witness live performances that redefine technology and culture.

Your meals :

  • Breakfasts which are not included in your package can be added at the reception when you arrive at the hotel. However, you will find many cafés near your hotel serving copious breakfasts, often tastier than those in the hotels, which sometimes have tight schedules and are predominantly savoury. However, if you would like to add breakfast to your offer when you make your reservation, you can select it as an option.

Your additional services:

  • A pocket wifi is included in your tour. It allows unlimited high-speed internet access. Your Pocket WiFi will be given to you at the airport of arrival.
  • It comes with a small booklet to operate your device (don't panic: simple operation) and a prepaid envelope to return your device at the end of your stay. Your pocket wifi will work naturally until the last day of your trip to Japan.
  • A maximum of 5 devices can be connected to a pocket wifi (phone, tablet, computer).
  • A single pocket wifi is provided for a circuit order of 1 to 5 people. For an order of 6 people or more, a second pocket wifi will be added automatically and at no extra cost to your reservation.

When you buy, Japan Experience offers you 2 types of protection:

Japan Experience Flex : 
Cancellation insurance before departure under conditions.

Japan Experience Protect :
Pre-departure cancellation insurance under conditions and on-site assistance under conditions. 

Frequently asked questions

Our commitments as Japan Experience, Europe No. 1 travel in Japan

  1. The guarantee of the first tour operator specialised exclusively in Japan for 40 years
  2. A wide range of products to let you Experience Japan from the inside
  3. Competitive prices thanks to a single team in UK, Europe, USA and Japan, with no intermediaries
  4. Assistance available in Japan throughout your trip
  5. specialised team is available 7 days a week by phone or email
  6. The best advice thanks to the 3,500 articles available on our website

Japan's Classics and World Expo 2025

From
$1,560 per person - 11 days

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