HomeJapan Golden Route 2026
Not every journey through Japan is the same. The Japan Golden Route is the one that shows you what makes this country genuinely extraordinary — not just its famous cities, but the mountain towns, ancient trade routes, UNESCO villages, and samurai districts that most travelers never reach. This is a 10-day Japan tour designed for those who want the full picture.
Beginning with Tokyo Tours, you will spend three days absorbing one of the world's most dynamic capitals — guided visits to Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and the iconic Shibuya Crossing, balanced with free time to explore at your own pace. From there, a day trip to Kamakura brings you face to face with the Great Buddha and the coastal shrines that have stood for centuries. Then the route turns inland, climbing through the Japanese Alps toward Takayama — a city so beautifully preserved that walking its old Sanmachi Suji streets feels like stepping into Edo-period Japan. End the evening in a traditional onsen, soaking in hot spring waters as the mountains settle into silence around you.
The following day takes you through Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village of towering thatched-roof farmhouses that seem to belong to another world entirely, before continuing to Kanazawa — home to the Nomura Samurai House and Kenrokuen Garden, consistently ranked among Japan's three most beautiful. Your journey concludes in Kyoto, where expert guides lead you through Nijo Castle, the Golden Pavilion, Ryoanji's Zen rock garden, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the timeless streets of Gion.
With English-speaking guides throughout all key touring days, bullet train travel between destinations, 4-star accommodations, and entrance fees included, the Japan Golden Route with Memphis Tours is a seamlessly planned 10-day Japan tour that leaves nothing important out — and gives you the space to let Japan leave its mark on you.
● Arrival Airport Transfer by Shared Taxis
● Departure Airport Transfer by airport by shuttle
● Accommodation for 9 Nights based on Bed & Breakfast
● One lunch in Kyoto
● All sightseeing tours as mentioned
● English-speaking guide during guided tours
● Bullet train tickets as mentioned
● Public transportation and transfers as per itinerary
● Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
● International airfare
● Entry visa fees (if applicable)
● Optional tours and activities
● Meals and beverages not mentioned
● Early check-in, late check-out
● Personal expenses (laundry, minibar, phone calls, etc.)
● Tipping for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
● Travel insurance
Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo, transfer to your hotel using shared taxi services. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring this vibrant city at your own pace.
Enjoy a full-day guided exploration of Tokyo using public transportation. Visit the serene Hamarikyu Garden, then continue to Asakusa to stroll along Nakamise Shopping Street and admire the historic Sensoji Temple. Discover Ueno’s cultural highlights, including Toshogu Shrine and Shinobazu Pond. Conclude your day at the iconic Meiji Shrine and witness the famous Shibuya Crossing along with the Hachiko Statue.
Meals: Breakfast
Spend the day at your own pace exploring Tokyo or join one of our optional experiences, such as the Yanesen Half-Day Walking Tour, offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s nostalgic charm.
Meals: Breakfast
Travel by train to Kamakura, a coastal city rich in history. Visit the impressive Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, marvel at the Great Buddha, and explore the peaceful Hase Temple.
Meals: Breakfast
Journey to Takayama via bullet train and express train through Nagoya. Upon arrival, explore Takayama’s charming old town, including Takayama Jinya and Kami Sannomachi Street. In the evening, unwind with a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) experience.
Please prepare an overnight bag for 2 nights, as your main luggage will be transferred directly to Kyoto.
Meals: Breakfast
Travel by bus to Shirakawago, a UNESCO-listed village famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses. Continue to Kanazawa, where you will visit the Nomura Samurai House in the historic Nagamachi District and the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast
Transfer independently to Kyoto via bullet train. Upon arrival, an English- speaking assistant will meet you and assist with your transfer.
Meals: Breakfast
Discover Kyoto’s cultural treasures on a guided tour. Visit Nijo Castle, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), and Ryoanji Temple with its famous Zen rock garden. Continue to Tenryuji Temple, stroll through the enchanting Bamboo Grove, and enjoy scenic views from Togetsukyo Bridge. Lunch is included.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Enjoy a day at leisure or join an optional excursion to Nara and Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its iconic red torii gates.
Meals: Breakfast
Transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX) via airport shuttle for your departure flight, taking with you unforgettable memories of Japan.
Meals: Breakfast
$
3990
| Arrival Date in Japan 2026 | Departure Date in Japan |
| May 24th | June 4th |
| June 7th | June 18th |
| June 21st | July 2nd |
| July 12th | July 23rd |
| July 26th | August 6th |
| August 23rd | September 3rd |
| August 30th |
September 10th |
| October 4th | October 15th |
| November 15th | November 26th |
| November 29th | December 10th |
