O Tour Description

The Greater Tokyo Area is the world’s most populous metropolitan region. It is a city not just of noise, but of vast silences, where moments of introspection arise unexpectedly. The juxtaposition of the hyper-modern and the timeless invites us to ask not just what Tokyo is, but how it feels to be part of this extraordinary blend of tradition and progress.

O Tour Summary

⚲ Location: Tokyo

↻ Duration: 8 hours

⇒ Meeting Time: 10 am

⌕ Meeting Location: Your hotel lobby. The guide will contact you to confirm the exact location.

⇐ Drop-off Time: 6 pm

⌕ Drop-off Location: Ebisu Yokocho

⚐ Language: English

O Route

….. 1. Senso-Ji Temple(Asakusa) . 90 minutes

What unseen energies draw millions to the sacred grounds of Sensoji, where ancient traditions meet the modern soul of Tokyo? Tokyo's oldest temple, is a vibrant and historic Buddhist site, welcoming visitors with its iconic Thunder Gate and offering a rich cultural experience amidst bustling Asakusa.

….. 2. Akihabara District . 60 minutes

What draws dreamers and tech enthusiasts alike to the neon-lit labyrinth of Akihabara? A vibrant district renowned for its plethora of electronics shops, anime and manga stores, and otaku culture, making it a landmark for technology enthusiasts and pop culture fans.

.…. Commute . ~45 minutes

….. 3. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden . 60 minutes

A sprawling, serene oasis in the heart of Tokyo, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens that blend traditional Japanese, English, and French styles.

….. 4. Shinjuku District . 30 minutes

A bustling commercial and entertainment hub in Tokyo, known for its towering skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife, extensive shopping options. What stories come alive after dark in the dazzling chaos of Shinjuku’s vibrant streets?

….. 5. Omoide Yokocho Alley . 30 minutes

A nostalgic, narrow lane lined with tiny, rustic eateries and bars, famous for its yakitori and old-world charm. What untold tales linger in the smoky alleys of Omoide Yokocho, where every corner whispers nostalgia?

.…. Commute . ~45 minutes

….. 6. Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue . 60 minutes

One of the busiest pedestrian crossings globally, surrounded by neon lights and bustling activity. Plus a visit to the loyal Hachiko Statue nearby, a symbol of devotion.

….. 7. Ebisu Yokocho . 60 minutes

A lively narrow alley filled with a variety of small, bustling izakayas and eateries, offering a vibrant atmosphere and an authentic taste of Japanese nightlife and cuisine. What makes Ebisu Yokocho a hidden gem where Tokyo’s nightlife comes alive with unforgettable encounters?

O Tour Description

Wandering through Kyoto city’s alleys, one is struck by the quiet eloquence of its architecture. Why do storefronts and gardens retreat shyly behind veils, refusing to display themselves too readily? What philosophy dictates the indirect pathways to entrances, as though life itself must be approached obliquely? The rooftops, their ceramics curling skywards, seem to flirt with the heavens—what dream do they seek to anchor? And why do shrines wear the commanding hue of vermillion, their color both bold and enigmatic? Each feature hints at a deeper narrative, inviting us to see not merely with our eyes, but with an awakened imagination.

Kyoto's alleys are a study in subtle power. The architecture does not shout for attention—it lures you in slowly, enticing with the promise of secrets hidden behind veils. The winding paths to entrances are not mere routes; they are deliberate, calculated delays, designed to make the pursuit of entry feel earned, not granted.

O Tour Summary

⚲ Location: Kyoto

↻ Duration: 8 hours

⇒ Meeting Time: 10 am

⌕ Meeting Location: Your hotel lobby. The guide will contact you to confirm the exact location.

⇐ Drop-off Time: 6 pm

⌕ Drop-off Location: Beside Fushimi Inari Shrine

⚐ Language: English

O Route

….. 1. Nanzenji Complex's Tanju-An Garden . 30 minutes

What stories of Zen philosophy and artistry await you in the serene corners of Tanju-An Garden at the Nanzenji Complex? Tanju-An Garden embodies the very essence of Japanese Zen aesthetics, where the meticulous placement of stones, moss, and quiet pathways invites a contemplative silence, offering visitors a chance to reflect deeply on the harmony between nature and the spiritual.

….. 2. Nanzenji Complex's Abbots Quarters . 30 minutes

What glimpses into the lives of Zen abbots can you uncover within the historic walls of the Nanzenji Complex's Abbot's Quarters? Historically the residence of the chief monk, this sacred space is imbued with the quiet reverence that defines Zen Buddhism, where every corner reflects a harmony of simplicity and grandeur.

….. 3. Water Channel Bridge . 20 minutes

This aqueduct was built in the late 19th century to carry water to the nearby Keage Incline, a transportation route for boats. Its classical Roman-inspired arches make it a striking feature in the temple's landscape, adding an unexpected yet serene blend of Western architecture amidst the traditionally Japanese setting. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the area, particularly for its elegant contrast with the surrounding natural beauty.

.…. Commute . 40 minutes

….. 4. Sanjo River View . 20 minutes

What stories does the Sanjo River View tell as you gaze upon its timeless beauty, blending nature and history in the heart of Kyoto? The view from the Sanjo River is a contemplation of time itself, a subtle reminder of how nature and civilization perpetually overlap. As the river gently flows beneath ancient bridges and modern architecture, one is struck by the quiet contrast between the ageless water and the bustling world that surrounds it.

….. 5. Gion, The Geisha District . 40 minutes

In Gion, every corner, every building, seems to hold a story, a glimpse of a past that is still alive today—quietly resisting the weight of the modern world. It is a district that speaks not just of beauty, but of mystery and devotion, inviting you to pause and reflect on the delicate balance between old and new, visible and hidden.

….. 6. Yasaka Shrine . 30 minutes

The air, thick with incense, carries the quiet murmurs of prayers from visitors and locals alike. Its grounds, dotted with lanterns and sacred trees, offer an invitation to pause and reflect.

….. 7. Maruyama Park . 30 minutes

Maruyama Park holds an enduring charm, with its tranquil ponds, ancient trees, and the graceful Yasaka Pagoda peering over the landscape.

….. 8. Ryozen Kannon (from the outside) . 30 minutes

Perched on the hills of Kyoto, this sacred site houses a towering statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, whose serene gaze seems to gaze beyond time itself.

….. 9. Ninnenzaka & Sannenzaka Streets . 30 minutes

Legend whispers that if you pause in the middle of Sannenzaka, you might catch a glimpse of the spirits of Kyoto's past — a fleeting shadow of a Geisha, or the soft rustle of a samurai's robe. With each step, you’re walking not just through a street, but through history itself. The past seems to breathe here, and for a moment, it feels as though you are the keeper of its secrets. The charm of these lanes lies in their undisturbed preservation, where time seems to stand still.

….. 10. Kiyomizu-dera Temple . 60 minutes

In Kyoto, there's an old saying, "Why don't you jump from Kiyomizu?" It's a local variation of the more common phrase "Take a leap of faith." Historically, the saying originated from a tradition where people believed that if someone survived a leap from the Kiyomizu-dera temple stage, their wish would come true.

.…. Commute . 40 minutes

….. 11. Fushimi Inari Shrine . 80 minutes

What mysteries unfold along the endless stripe of vermilion gates, leading you up Inari Mountain to a summit where ancient spirits and forgotten legends await? Known for its striking rows of vermilion Torii gates, the shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, agriculture, and prosperity.

O Tour Description

In the tranquil beauty of western Kyoto, nature and architecture intertwine to reveal powerful analogies about resilience and status. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove stands as a living testament to perseverance. Its slender stalks, though flexible, grow tall and strong through steady, quiet endurance. The bamboo, bending with the wind yet never breaking, symbolizes how strength is found not in rigidity, but in the ability to adapt and persist—an enduring lesson for those who walk among them.

Nearby, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) gleams with a brilliant, gilded exterior, a reflection of the opulent aspirations of its original owners. Once a beacon of power and status, its radiant gold surfaces still speak of an era where wealth and influence were meant to be boldly displayed. The Golden Pavilion stands as a reminder that status is not just about achieving success, but about showcasing it to the world.

This tour offers a chance to explore the contrasts between quiet resilience and outward grandeur, offering insights into the ways in which both nature and architecture in Kyoto embody different dimensions of human ambition.

O Tour Summary

⚲ Location: Kyoto

↻ Duration: 8 hours

⇒ Meeting Time: 10 am

⌕ Meeting Location: Your hotel lobby. The guide will contact you to confirm the exact location.

⇐ Drop-off Time: 6 pm

⌕ Drop-off Location: Your hotel lobby.

⚐ Language: English

O Route

….. 1. Nijo Castle . 60 minutes

One of the most famous tales involves the Nijō-no-Tsuru, a koi fish pond at the heart of the garden. It’s said that the shogun’s advisors, often engaged in secretive negotiations, would walk the garden paths, using the pond as a backdrop for their discussions. A rumor spread that during one such meeting, the koi were fed a mixture of rice and gold flakes, symbolizing the shogun’s wealth and influence. The advisors, always cautious of betrayal, believed that the koi could "keep secrets" — a symbolic gesture to remind them of the stakes of their whispered conversations.

.…. Commute . 30 minutes

….. 2. Kinkakuji Pavilion . 60 minutes

What stories and mysteries are embedded in the golden walls of Kinkakuji Pavilion, a symbol of both beauty and power, and what hidden truths might it reveal to those who look beyond its shimmering surface?

.…. Commute . 45 minutes

….. 3. Arashiyama's Tenryu-ji Temple . 45 minutes

In the serene contemplation of its Zen garden, the temple beckons us to pause and reflect on the harmony of nature and the transient moment.

….. 4. Arashiyama's Bamboo Forest . 30 minutes

A silent cathedral of towering bamboo, where every swaying stalk reminds us of the strength found in surrender to the natural flow.

….. 5. Arashiyama's Kimono Forest . 20 minutes

The vibrant kimono fabric lining the pathway hums with the spirit of Japanese tradition, inviting us to walk through the colors of culture and history.

….. 6. Walk towards Otagi Nenbutsu-ji . 60 minutes

As Gennyo, a wandering monk, continued his path towards Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, he passed a small shrine tucked away in the forest. Intrigued, he paused and bowed before the shrine, sensing something unusual about it. The air seemed charged, and he could almost hear faint whispers coming from the shadows. With a sense of calm, he continued on, unaware that his brief encounter with the shrine would forever change his life.

This part is a stroll through the quiet streets of Arashiyama, where each step toward the temple feels like a journey into the soul of ancient Japan.

….. 7. Arashiyama's Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple . 30 minutes

With its multitude of stone statues, each expression tells a story of compassion and the eternal human search for enlightenment, beckoning us to look within.

✔ Airport Arrival Support

✔ Professional Local Tour Guides for nine itineraries (and their personal expenses during the tours).

✔ All Entrance Fees: All entrance fees for the listed attractions are fully included in the tour package, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience for our guests.

✔ Stovenirs (for each individual on every tour): Refer to the ‘Souvenirs’ section below.

✔ Customizable Itinerary: Flexibility to tailor the package according to your preferences and interests.

✔ Personalized Online Itinerary Presentation: Receive a digital presentation of your customized itinerary that you can easily share with your private group, allowing for seamless planning and coordination.

✔ Resources: Before your tour date, we will email you a "Preparing for Your Japan Trip" and "Japan Secrets" digital references to help you make the most of your experience.

✔ Priority Support: Dedicated customer service with priority response times, ensuring your questions and requests are handled promptly for a smooth and stress-free experience.

✖ Meal Costs: Participants are responsible for their own meals (e.g., lunch).

✖ Transportation Costs: Participants handle their own transportation costs (public or private).

Note: For those who booked the 'Luxury Wand' asset, everything mentioned above is fully covered, including private transportation.

More about the 'Luxury Wand' here.

Stovenirs = Souvenirs + Stories.

贈り物の背後には、心のこもった物語が広がっています。

(Okurimono no haigo ni wa, kokoro no komotta monogatari ga hirogatteimasu.)

Translation: "Behind every gift, there is an heartfelt story unfolding."

For direct bookings made through our website, every guest in the private tour will receive a special "Stovenir" during every tour—a thoughtfully chosen souvenir accompanied by a captivating story about Japan, shared by your guide.

These souvenirs are crafted to enhance your experience, ensuring that your tour is not only memorable but also deeply meaningful, allowing you to carry home lasting connections.

We understand that you might prefer flexibility over a pre-designed route or itinerary. After booking, we’ll ask you to complete a short form to personalize your tour. If you'd like to swap one city for another, that's perfectly fine—we’re here to adapt to your preferences.

The private tours do not need to be on consecutive days. In fact, we recommend spreading them out over the duration of your stay for a more enjoyable experience.

- We will provide an itinerary presentation with specific tour days tailored to your trip's length and schedule. However, the plan remains fully flexible, and you are welcome to request changes to the dates.

- Tours are not sequential (e.g., Tour 1, Tour 2, Tour 3, etc.) and can have breaks in between. For example, Tour 9 could be your first tour, and Tour 1 could be the last, depending on where you land and what works best for your itinerary. We will provide a personalized itinerary suggestion in your presentation following the booking.

We believe that leaving your intercity transfers flexible will give your trip a more relaxed, vacation-like vibe. Fixed train schedules with rigid timings can often feel stressful, and we aim to avoid that so you can enjoy your trip at your own pace.

While we do not arrange intercity transportation, you will have a team of guides connecting with you prior to your arrival. They will be available to provide advice on the best routes and options if needed. That said, Japan's train services are of an exceptionally high standard, making travel between cities convenient and efficient.

1. Confirmation Email: You will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of booking.

2. Resources: We will email you "Preparing for Your Japan Trip" and "Japan Secrets" digital guides to help you make the most of your experience.

3. Personalized Contact: Your guides will reach out to you three times (via email or Whatsapp):

a… 2-4 weeks before your tour.

b… again the day before your tour with them.

c… and finally at the meeting point on the day of the tour.

4. Support: We will follow up with you to ensure everything is going smoothly and offer support if any issues arise.

• For cancellations made more than 15 days before the tour date, a 80% refund will be issued. Please note that due to the time and effort spent on assigning dedicated guides and personalizing the itineraries to suit your interests, cancellations within this period still reflect the preparation invested in crafting a unique and tailored experience.

• For cancellations made 2 to 14 days before the tour date, a 50% refund will be issued.

• Cancellations made less than 2 days before the tour date or no-shows without prior notice will not be eligible for a refund.

We understand that travel is deeply personal, and at times expectations may not align—whether due to chemistry with the guide or other unforeseen factors. Our guests come from all over the world with unique preferences, and we take pride in tailoring each tour to reflect that individuality.

If your experience doesn’t meet expectations, please let us know. We treat every concern with care and aim to offer fair compensation—whether through partial refunds, discounts on future tours, or other appropriate solutions—based on the nature of the issue.

Because your time in Japan is special, we take full responsibility for crafting a personalized and unforgettable journey. We believe in redefining the private tour experience—and your satisfaction is central to that mission. If something falls short, we’ll make it right. Your experience matters, and if you're not completely satisfied, we guarantee to make it right.