Day 1 : Arrive Tokyo, Japan. Welcome to Japan, the "Land of the Rising Sun". Afternoon arrival in Tokyo, Japan's vibrant capital. Tokyo is a great mix of ancient Japanese culture and modern, dazzling architectural landmarks which you'll be able to explore over the next few days. Your tour host warmly welcomes you upon arrival and escorts you to your downtown hotel. Your host will share with you some vital information about Japan, Tokyo and your upcoming tour program.

Day 2 : Tokyo. Morning guided tour to explore some of the highlights of amazing Tokyo. Start with a visit to the 1093 ft tall Tokyo Tower. From here you may enjoy bird's eye views of the sprawling metropolis. Then, tour the historic Imperial Palace district dating back to the 15th century. The emperor and his family still live in the western part of the Imperial Palace. You'll see the charming East Outer Garden with views of the ancient castle walls and ruins. Proceed to a Pearl Gallery where you'll learn more about the pearl's cultivation tradition. Your tour concludes at Asakusa Kannon, Tokyo's most spectacular and sacred Buddhist temple. Narrow alleys filled with small shops, restaurants and tranquil gardens surround the temple. Stroll along Nakamise Street nearby, filled with stores stocking treasure troves of traditional Japanese wares and crafts. Afternoon is free for independent pursuits and you may visit the nearby exciting Ginza district renowned for its superior shopping, dining and entertainment.

Day 3 : Mt. Fuji & Hakone Excursion. Japan's pastoral countryside unfolds as you depart Tokyo today for Mt. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The main attraction here is majestic Mt. Fuji, a dormant volcano that last erupted almost 300 years ago. The mountain's perfectly shaped cone has inspired artists and poets for centuries. Weather permitting, drive up to the fifth station of the snow capped peak for panoramic vistas. Savor lunch at the nearby hot spring resort town of Hakone before embarking on a scenic boat ride on tranquil Lake Ashi. Later, enjoy a cable car ride up Mt. Komagatake for a sweeping view of Hakone National Park and Mt. Fuji before returning to Tokyo late this afternoon.

Day 4 : Tokyo. Spend a day at leisure to explore Tokyo from your conveniently located hotel. For a real taste of Japan, get up early and head for the colorful wholesale fish market! You may also join an optional excursion outside Tokyo to Nikko. Nikko is a magnificent complex of shrines dedicated to the first shogun, adorned with some of the finest woodcarvings in all of Japan.

Day 5: Tokyo/Kyoto. Today, embark on a thrilling train ride on the super-express Bullet Train Shinkansen headed for splendid Kyoto. Embodying Japan's rich culture and complex history, Kyoto has over 2000 temples and shrines, delightful gardens and exceptionally preserved wooden buildings. The sights, wonderful local cuisine and exceptional arts and crafts here are certain to enchant you! After checking into your centrally located hotel, the balance of the day is at leisure.

Day 6 : Kyoto. The capital of Japan from 794 to 1868, Kyoto is a world-class gem, a true oasis. Today, a local expert leads you on a guided tour exploring some of the city's highlights. Begin at Nijo Castle, renowned for its ornate interiors. Built by Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu in the early 17th century, the castle symbolizes the power and riches of the newly established Edo-based Shogun. Your next stop is one of Kyoto's most inspiring sights, the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, also known as Kinkaku-ji. As you approach the temple via a tree-shaded path, emerge into an exquisite Japanese-style garden on the other side of which stands the fabled pavilion. It is built on pillars magnificently suspended over a lake. Proceed to the colorful Handicraft Center where you can see demonstrations of traditional Japanese arts and crafts. This afternoon visit renowned Kiyomizu Temple, founded in the 8th century. Situated halfway up the Otowayama Hill it encompasses a vast area and affords stunning views of Kyoto. Wander along the narrow winding alleys leading up to the temple, lined with magnificently preserved old houses, craftmen’s workshops and tea houses. Soak up the flavor of traditional Japanese atmosphere, and perhaps purchase some exquisite locally crafted souvenirs.

Day 7 - 8 : Kyoto. Two full days on your own to explore ancient Kyoto's grace and beauty or join an optional tour. You may visit some of the smaller and serene temples, marvel at splendid classical Japanese gardens, see the exquisitely dressed geishas at the colorful Gion corner, or join a traditional tea ceremony. Perhaps visit the acclaimed Miho Museum, built on a wooded mountain-top outside Kyoto. Also available is an optional excursion to Nara, Japan's first capital and symbol of tranquility, where you may see the world's largest indoor Buddha.

Day 09 :. Transfer to the airport for your return flight.