Japan in Nine Days – day-to-day itinerary

Day 2 Tokyo
After breakfast, set out to explore Tokyo with a private guide.

This really is a city of contrasts, with diverse neighbourhoods that range from futuristic neon to historic temples. It may seem daunting, but your guide will help you navigate the efficient metro system.

First visit Asakusa and the striking Sensoji Temple, before checking out Tsukiji Outer Market for lunch and a browse through the interesting stalls. Afterwards, visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, an antidote to hectic city life. If it’s the weekend you may see a wedding taking place, the bride (in a white kimono) and the groom (in a black one) walking together under a red umbrella.

You’ll also explore the famous Harajuku area, ‘spiritual home’ for Japan’s unique pop culture, frequented by teenagers dressed up as their favourite manga characters. Finally, head to Shibuya, known for one of the world’s busiest crossings, and check out the Shibuya Sky observation deck.

Day 3 Tokyo
This morning enjoy a mind-blowing experience at teamLab Planets on the island of Toyosu, an immersive digital art experience featuring incredible art and light installations. The children will absolutely love it.

Afterwards, you are free to explore further, either around Toyosu and nearby Odaiba, or elsewhere in the city. Check out shoppers’ paradise Ginza for the most amazing department stores, or explore Electronics Town Akihabara, famous for its otaku or nerds. Otaku take their hobby seriously and whatever line of video games, comics, anime, manga, cos-play they’re into, this is where they come to get their fix.

For something more relaxing, take the Sumida River water bus to the leafy tranquil area that is Hamarikyu Gardens – seemingly unchanged since Edo times, when it was used by the shoguns and aristocracy for tea ceremonies and horse-riding practice.

Day 4 Tokyo – Hakone
Leave the freneticism of Tokyo behind and travel to Hakone. Here there are endless vistas of tree-clad hills dotted with quaint villages, all in the shadow of Mt Fuji, Japan’s most sacred mountain.

You will be provided with a ‘Hakone Pass’ that covers entrance to the main sights in the area. These include the famous open-air museum which uses the surrounding natural beauty as a backdrop for its exhibits. Popular with children is the Hakone Ropeway, a long cable car that offers panoramic views over the countryside.

In the evening, after settling in at your hotel, you can enjoy the local hot springs.

Day 5 Hakone
You have a full day to explore Hakone. Those with older children might enjoy escaping the crowds on a guided cycling tour, following a peaceful series of back roads through the beautiful scenery and stopping en route for a picnic lunch.

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