What to expect
Kyoto's Bamboo Grove
Wander beneath towering emerald stalks in Arashiyama’s serene bamboo forest.
Sumo Show Experience
Feel the thrill of tradition as you witness the power and pageantry of a live sumo performance.
Lake Ashi Boat Cruise
Glide across the waters of Lake Ashi and take in views of Mount Hakone’s volcanic peaks.
Kanazawa Artistry
Discover centuries-old craftsmanship as you create your own gold‑leaf chopsticks.
About this trip...
Join your fellow solo travelers on an unforgettable 13-day small group journey through the vibrant landscapes and timeless traditions of Japan. From the dynamic streets of Tokyo to the enchanting beauty of Mount Fuji, experience the perfect balance of ancient culture and modern wonder.
This thoughtfully curated small group tour includes immersive cultural experiences, such as a live sumo show with lunch, a traditional Sa-do tea ceremony, and an evening of Japanese performing arts at Gion Corner. Wander through the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District, get immersed in Kanazawa's legacies with hands-on gold-leaf chopstick crafting, and soak in panoramic views from iconic castles, gardens, and city observatories.
Travel in comfort aboard the legendary Shinkansen bullet train, enjoy the company of like-minded solo travellers, and make lasting memories as you explore the very best of Japan. Let Solos take care of the details so you can focus on experiencing the magic of Japan, solo — but never alone.
What's included?
Airport to hotel transfers-
Transfers by private coach & Shinkansen Bullet Train
Private Room
Breakfast daily & four dinners
Gold-leaf chopsticks workshop, Sa-do Tea Ceremony & visit to Sake Brewery with tasting-
Sumo show experience with lunch
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Gion Corner traditional performing arts
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Tokyo River cruise & Lake Ashi boat cruise
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Visit to 5th station, Owakudani Valley
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Visit to Himeji castle, Osaka Castle, Osaka Museum of Housing and living & Umeda Skybuilding observatory
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Visit to Ituskushima shrine & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and park
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Visit to Nara Park with Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine
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Visit to Nomura Samurai House & Kenrokuen Garden
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Visit to Kiyomizu Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Ryoanji Temple, Kinkakuji Temple & Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
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Visit to Sensoji Temple, Hama-rikyu Gardens & Meiji Shrine
Accompanying Solos Tour Leader
What's extra:
- International flights are not included
- Travel insurance
- Tips & drinks
- Meals when not included in the itinerary
- Activities when not included in the itinerary
Itinerary
- Kon'nichiwa and welcome to Tokyo!
- Sensoji Temple & Hama-rikyu Gardens
- Ginza, Harajuku and Shibuya District
- Mt. Fuji 5th Station, Owakudani Valley and Lake Ashi
- Kanazawa Omicho Market, Nomura Samurai House & Higashi Chaya District
- Kenrokuen Garden, Gold Leaf Workshop & Ogimachi Village
- Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple & Sa-do tea ceremony
- Fushimi Inari shrine & Nara Park
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Gion Corner
- Hiroshima Miyajima, Peace Memorial Museum and Park
- Himeji Castle & Kobe Harborland
- Osaka Castle & Umeda Skybuilding
- Departure day
What you’ll be doing
Day One: Kon'nichiwa & welcome to Tokyo!
- Hotel Vista Tokyo Tsukiji or similar
Day Two: Sensoji Temple & Hama-rikyu Gardens
After breakfast, we set off on our private coach for a full-day Tokyo City Tour. Our first stop is Asakusa Kannon Temple (Sensoji), Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple, followed by a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with traditional stalls and souvenirs. Next, we enjoy a truly memorable cultural highlight — a live Sumo Show, complete with a delicious lunch.
In the afternoon, we board the Sumida River Cruise from Asakusa to Hamarikyu, gliding along the waterways before arriving at the tranquil Hamarikyu Onshi Park, where beautifully landscaped gardens stand in striking contrast to the modern skyline. As our tour continues, we pass the iconic Rainbow Bridge — an ideal moment for photos.
We round off the day with dinner before returning to the hotel for a well-earned rest.
- Hotel Vista Tokyo Tsukiji or similar
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
Day Three: Ginza, Harajuku & Shibuya District
Today, our Tokyo adventure begins with a drive past the historic Tokyo Imperial Palace, once the grand site of Edo Castle. We continue on to Ginza, the city’s renowned upscale shopping district, where modern elegance meets traditional charm. Next, we step into serenity at Meiji Jingu Shrine, a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji, offering a welcome escape from the bustling streets.
Our journey then takes us through Harajuku, a vibrant hub of youth culture and eclectic fashion, perfect for soaking up Tokyo’s trendsetting energy. In the afternoon, we make our way to Shibuya for an unmissable photo stop at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing and the beloved Hachiko Statue. After an inspiring day of exploration, we return to the hotel to unwind and relax.
- Hotel Vista Tokyo Tsukiji or similar
- Breakfast included
Day Four: Mt. Fuji 5th station, Owakudani Valley & Lake Ashi
We pay a visit to the legendary Mt. Fuji, rising majestically to 3,776 meters. Weather permitting, we travel up to the Fuji 5th Station, where sweeping panoramic views await. Should conditions prevent access, we’ll instead explore the picturesque Oshino Hakkai, a charming traditional village renowned for its crystal‑clear spring water ponds.
Our adventure continues aboard the Hakone Ropeway as we ascend to Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic zone where billowing sulfurous fumes and bubbling hot springs create a truly dramatic landscape. Afterwards, we unwind with a leisurely cruise across Lake Ashi, nestled within Mount Hakone’s ancient caldera, offering breathtaking vistas — and perhaps another glimpse of Mt. Fuji on the horizon.
We end the day by checking in to our hotel in Hakone, where a relaxing evening and dinner await.
- Tenseien Hakone Hotel or similar
- Breakfast & dinner included
Day Five: Kanazawa Omicho Market, Nomura Samurai House & Higashi Chaya District
After breakfast, we board the iconic bullet train and speed our way to Kanazawa. Our first stop is Omicho Market, fondly known as the ‘kitchen of Kanazawa,’ where a vibrant array of fresh seafood from the nearby Sea of Japan fills the lively stalls. Next, we step back in time at the Nomura Samurai House, a beautifully preserved residence that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and traditions of Kanazawa’s samurai.
If time allows, we round off our day with a visit to the enchanting Higashi Chaya district, famed for its historic geisha tea houses. Here you’ll have free time to meander through quaint streets lined with boutique shops, cosy cafés, and atmospheric traditional teahouses.
- Hotel Vista Kanazawa or similar
- Breakfast included
Day Six: Kenrokuen Garden, Gold Leaf Workshop & Ogimachi Village
We begin our day at the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, celebrated as one of Japan’s most exquisite landscapes, with its harmonious design and ever‑changing seasonal beauty. Next, we dive into Kanazawa’s rich heritage of gold‑leaf artistry with a hands‑on chopstick‑making experience, a truly memorable cultural activity.
Our journey continues with a visit to a local sake brewery, where we sample a variety of flavours and learn about this traditional craft. We then travel through the scenic mountain routes and pass by Ogimachi Village, the largest village in the Shirakawago region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its distinctive Gassho‑zukuri thatched‑roof farmhouses. After a full day of exploration, we return to Kanazawa for a relaxing overnight stay.
- Hotel Vista Kanazawa or similar
- Breakfast & dinner included
Day Seven: Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple & Sa-do Tea Ceremony
After breakfast, we meet our guide and travel by bus to Kanazawa Station, where we board the shinkansen bound for Kyoto. On arrival, we make our way to the Kiyomizu area, with free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure. We then wander along the charming historic lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, lined with traditional shops and teahouses, before reaching the iconic Kiyomizu Temple, famed for its sweeping wooden stage and breathtaking views. Please note: if parking is unavailable, a 2 km walk may be required to reach the temple.
We round off the day by immersing ourselves in the calm and beauty of a Sa‑do tea ceremony, a timeless Japanese tradition. After the experience, we check in to our hotel in Kyoto for a relaxing evening.
- Urban Kyoto Nijo Premium or similar
- Breakfast included
Day Eight: Fushimi Inari Shrine & Nara Park
Today, we begin with a visit to the renowned Fushimi Inari Shrine, celebrated for its striking vermilion torii gates that weave their way through the forested slopes of Mount Inari. From there, we journey on to Nara, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at your own pace.
In the afternoon, we explore Nara Deer Park, home to friendly deer that roam freely throughout the grounds. We then visit the impressive Todaiji Temple and the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine (admission included for the shrine only), both set within the park’s peaceful surroundings.
After our sightseeing, we return to Kyoto for an overnight stay.
- Urban Kyoto Nijo Premium or similar
- Breakfast included
Day Nine: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Gion Corner
Today in Kyoto, we begin with a visit to the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where soaring bamboo stalks create a tranquil and unforgettable setting. We then continue to Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan’s most celebrated zen rock garden, before heading to the magnificent Kinkakuji Temple, famed for its glistening Golden Pavilion reflected in the surrounding waters.
In the afternoon, we make our way to Gion Corner, where you’ll have the chance to experience a variety of traditional Japanese performing arts. Please note: the performances available are subject to change on the day.
After an inspiring day of cultural highlights, we return to our hotel for the evening.
- Urban Kyoto Nijo Premium or similar
- Breakfast included
Day Ten: Hiroshima Miyajima, Peace Memorial Museum & Park
Today, we set out on an excursion to Hiroshima, beginning with a visit to Miyajima, famed for the magnificent Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic torii gate that appears to float gracefully on the sea. We then continue to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park, a moving tribute to the events of 1945 and the city’s enduring message of peace. As we explore, we pass by the haunting remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome and take time to reflect while viewing the poignant exhibits of the Peace Memorial Museum, which include personal artifacts and stories from that tragic day. After this deeply memorable visit, we check in to our hotel in Hiroshima for the evening.
- Hotel Vista Hiroshima or similar
- Breakfast included
Day Eleven: Himeji Castle & Kobe Harborland
Today’s adventure begins as we travel to Hiroshima Station and board the Shinkansen bound for Himeji. On arrival, we explore the magnificent Himeji Castle — often referred to as the White Heron Castle for its graceful, soaring design — widely regarded as Japan’s most spectacular surviving feudal fortress.
We then continue on to Kobe, where we enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Meriken Park, home to the striking Kobe Port Tower and a collection of impressive waterfront artworks. Our journey continues to the vibrant Kobe Harborland district, a lively hub filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. After a full day of sightseeing, we travel onward to Osaka and check in to our hotel for the night.
- Shin Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI or similar
- Breakfast included
Day Twelve: Osaka Castle & Umeda Skybuilding
Today, we set out on an exciting Osaka City Tour, beginning with a visit to the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, where we’ll step back in time and see how city life has evolved from the Edo period through to the modern day. We then make our way to the Umeda Sky Building, where its striking futuristic observatory offers sweeping panoramic views over the city.
Our exploration continues at the historic Osaka Castle, originally built in 1583 as a powerful symbol of unity during Japan’s warring states era. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to soak up the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori, Osaka’s most famous entertainment and shopping district, brimming with neon lights and street food delights.
In the evening, we gather for a special farewell dinner, sharing memories of the incredible journey we’ve experienced together. We then return to the hotel for our final night in Japan.
- Breakfast & dinner included
Day Thirteen: Departure Day
We leave with unforgettable memories of our epic Japanese adventure, transferring to Kansai Airport for our flight home.
- Breakfast included
Accommodation
Japan Explorer
- Tokyo: Vista Tokyo Tsukiji
- Hakone: Tenseien hotel
- Kanazawa: Vista Kanazawa room 20sqm
- Kyoto : Urban Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium
- Hiroshima : Vista Hiroshima
- Osaka : Shin Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI room 18sqm
Dates & Prices
Essential Information
We recommend that you check passport and visa requirements for the country you are visiting at the State Department if you have a U.S. Passport. Most countries require that your passport have at least six months validity when traveling internationally, and many require that you have one to two blank visa pages for either an entry stamp or visa. As a general rule, please check that your passport has six months validity beyond your planned trip, and if not, please renew your passport with plenty of time to provide Solos with your updated passport information by the final payment due date.
Not sure what travel documents you need? Our trusted partner, sherpa°, makes it easy to check visa and entry requirements based on your destination and passport. One quick check now means smooth sailing later. Click here to learn more.
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Checked Baggage:
One suitcase with maximum dimensions of 51 cm (L) x 31 cm (W) x 77 cm (H) and a maximum weight of 66 lbs -
Cabin Baggage:
One carry-on suitcase with maximum dimensions of 38 cm (L) x 23 cm (W) x 60 cm (H) and a maximum weight of 22 lbs.
Note:
Additional charges will apply for any overweight or extra luggage beyond the stated allowance, especially for transfers.
When booking accommodations in Japan, it's important to note that room sizes are typically smaller compared to standard hotel rooms in many Western countries. This is a common characteristic of Japanese hotels, especially in urban areas like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, where space is at a premium.
To help manage expectations:
- Compact Design: Japanese hotel rooms are designed to maximize functionality and efficiency in a smaller space.
- Bed Sizes: Beds may also be slightly smaller than international norms; for example, a "double bed" in Japan may be closer in size to a large single bed.
- Amenities: Despite the smaller size, rooms are often well-equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
- A reasonable level of fitness/mobility is required as we include plenty of sightseeing/travelling, some with early starts. Please note that on this trip we will also use private and public transport and there will be a lot of walking and standing involved.
- The order of the itinerary and events may be subject to change
- Please refer to Medical Conditions in Important Information.
