Ultimate Japan Food & Culture Tour

breakfast

Start your day with a visit to Tsukiji Fish Market, where the lively stalls are filled with fresh seafood, local snacks, and the aromas of Tokyo’s famous street food. Wander through the market lanes, sample seasonal bites, and experience one of the city’s most vibrant food scenes.

Next, take part in a hands-on Sushi-Making Cooking Class. Under the guidance of a local chef, learn the art of preparing sushi and enjoy the delicious creations you make yourself for lunch.

In the afternoon, step into the peaceful grounds of Meiji Jingu Shrine, surrounded by a tranquil forest in the heart of the city. Later, continue to Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Stroll along the lively Nakamise shopping street before ending the day with the glowing temple pagoda as evening approaches.

Sushi-making Class

Meiji Shrine

breakfast

After breakfast, the driver will drive you to the station and board the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) for a smooth and exciting journey from Tokyo to Kyoto, enjoying views of the Japanese countryside along the way.

Upon arrival, begin exploring with a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple (World Heritage), the famous Golden Pavilion shimmering above its reflective pond. Take time to stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and admire one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights.

Next, step back into Japan’s samurai history at Nijo Castle (World Heritage). Walk through the elegant halls and listen for the unique “nightingale floors,” designed to chirp underfoot as a security measure.

Later, head to Nishiki Market, often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” Enjoy free time to wander the lively market street, sample local delicacies, and browse traditional Kyoto specialties before returning to your hotel for the evening.

Kinkakuji Temple

Nishiki Market

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Begin your day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (World Heritage). Walk through the famous tunnel of thousands of vermilion torii gates and enjoy the peaceful forest paths that wind up the sacred mountain.

Continue to Kiyomizu-dera Temple (World Heritage), one of Kyoto’s most celebrated landmarks. From the wooden terrace, take in sweeping views of the city and the surrounding hills before strolling down the charming streets of Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka, where traditional shops offer local sweets, crafts, and street snacks.

Later, stop by Yasaka Shrine, a lively historic shrine at the edge of the old district, where you may have the chance to sample seasonal specialties such as fugu cuisine. As evening falls, wander into Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, and enjoy dinner at a cozy izakaya, soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere of lantern-lit streets.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Ninenzaka

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After breakfast, depart from Kyoto and travel to the historic town of Uji, famous for its tea culture. Begin with a visit to Byodo-in Temple (World Heritage), admired for its elegant Phoenix Hall reflected in a tranquil pond. Afterwards, stroll along Matcha Street, where you can sample Uji’s renowned green tea sweets or optionally experience a traditional tea ceremony.

Continue to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. Explore the magnificent Todai-ji Temple (World Heritage), home to the Great Buddha statue, before enjoying a walk through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely among visitors.

Before leaving Nara, stop at Kasuga Taisha (World Heritage), a beautiful shrine famous for its thousands of lanterns and peaceful forest setting. In the late afternoon, travel onward to Osaka and arrive at your hotel in the evening.

Kasuga Grand Shrine

Todaiji Temple

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After breakfast, travel from Osaka to the nearby port city of Kobe to begin a flavorful day. Start with a visit to the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, where you can learn about the traditional brewing process and sample Kobe’s famous sake.

Next, head to the lively area around Sannomiya Station, a perfect place to enjoy a lunch featuring the world-renowned Kobe Beef. Take time to explore the surrounding streets filled with restaurants, shops, and local specialties.

In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing walk along the waterfront at Meriken Park, where modern architecture and harbor views create a refreshing seaside atmosphere. Continue to Nankinmachi, Kobe’s vibrant Chinatown, to browse colorful stalls and taste a variety of Chinese-style street foods. After a satisfying day of flavors and sightseeing, return to Osaka in the evening.

Kobe Chinatown

Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

breakfast

Begin your day at Osaka Castle Park, strolling through the expansive grounds as the historic castle tower rises above you. Take in the seasonal flowers, serene moats, and the picturesque scenery, setting a relaxing start to your day.

Next, dive into Shinsaibashi-suji, Osaka’s bustling shopping arcade. Browse quirky shops while sampling local treats like takoyaki (octopus balls), sweet melon pan, and savory okonomiyaki—the perfect mix of flavors to energize your day.

In the afternoon, wander through Kuromon Market, known as “Osaka’s Kitchen,” where the air is filled with the aroma of freshly grilled seafood, sizzling skewers, and sweet treats. Finish your food adventure at Dotombori, where neon lights illuminate the canal and the streets are alive with food stalls offering everything from kushikatsu to creamy desserts. Savor each bite as the city pulses with energy, ending the day with both full bellies and unforgettable memories of Osaka’s vibrant culinary scene.

Shinsaibashi-suji

Osaka Castle

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Your memorable 9 Days Japan Food Tour comes to an end today. After hotel check-out, your driver will escort you to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for a smooth and comfortable transfer, ensuring you arrive in time for your departure flight. We wish you a pleasant journey home and hope the flavors of Japan stay with you long after the trip.