A classic trip to Japan should include the must-sees
but also the hidden gems to leave lasting impressions
Throbbing Tokyo energy draws you to another world
Gracious culture leaves a sense of awe, as deep as Fuji's beauty
Then, like on a time machine, whiz through the countryside
By bullet train from modern Tokyo to ancient, elegant Kyoto.
So many wonderful memories to create
Your first trip to Japan won't be your last
Stroll through the East Garden, one of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful palace grounds by avoiding the crowds.
*When the gardens are closed, visit Imperial Palace Plaza instead.
Cruise down Sumida River on a water bus. Along the way, take in a spectacular view of the Tokyo skyline.
Free time to explore this vivacious old Edo district filled with unique Japanese delicacies. Don't forget to see the famous Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most festive temple.
Step into the dazzling heart of Tokyo's luxury and style, where the chic allure of Ginza's glitzy boutiques and gourmet delights promises an unforgettable urban adventure!
Step through the towering torii gates into Meiji Shrine, a serene oasis amidst the chaos and excitement of Tokyo, where ancient forest spirits whisper tales of a bygone era.
Stroll down Omotesando, Tokyo's tree-lined avenue where haute couture meets architectural marvels.
The pulsating heart of Tokyo's youth culture, where the iconic Shibuya Crossing floods with a kaleidoscope of fashion.
Explore the exciting city on your own. Plan your own route or take one of our suggested courses for you to enjoy as a guideline. Whether your interest is in relaxation, culture, dining, or shopping, the city has a boundless array of fun and different things for everyone. Dinner is not included tonight so you may take advantage of unlimited dining options in the area.
Pay homage and find hidden treasures in local craft shops along Kamakura's main street walking tour.
Strolling along one of Japan's Top 100 Roads, the cherry blossom season is especially breathtaking.
Leisurely wander through the narrow alleys, where you can freely shop at traditional stores for Kamakura’s local sake, souvenirs, and irresistible small gifts.
This small, unknown museum captures Japanese elegance perfectly with a touching story. The "Symphony of Light" kimono display is not to be missed, but the building and gardens are also attractions themselves.
*We visit Yamanashi Prefectural Fuji-san World Heritage Center instead during irregular closures.
Escape the crowds to the farm town atmosphere of the Healing Village for intimate views of Mt. Fuji set against a beautiful backdrop of traditional thatched roof houses. Try on a kimono or samurai armor for a fun and unique photo op!
Explore the castle filled with historical and cultural significance. Energetic travelers will want to climb to the top floor balcony for a panoramic view of Osaka.
The pulsating energy here is electric! We've built-in free time so you may freely roam through Osaka's famous shopping and street food district to know the city at your own pace. For dinner, be sure to try local specialties such as Okonomiyaki, Hakozushi, and Kitsune Udon. Our suggestions and maps help you navigate the vibrant district to keep you from feeling lost in the hustle of Osaka.
Step into the enchanting park, where serene temples meet frolicking deer, all set against the backdrop of Japan's timeless natural beauty.
Travel to Japan's first capital. Stand in awe in the presence of one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues. Interact with temple deer, known as messengers of the gods in Shinto belief.
The Great Buddha of Nara, seated in the main hall of Tōdai-ji Temple, is the largest bronze statue in Japan. Its height of 15 meters makes one marvel at the hardships of its construction centuries ago.
See an incredible collection of antiques from Asia and Europe at the Miho Museum, designed by I.M. Pei.
*If Miho is closed, we will visit Nijo Castle or Sanjusangendo instead. If you would like further details on specific tour dates, please contact us.
Step into the opulent world of shogun at Nijo Castle, where whispering nightingale floors and grandiose chambers reveal the splendor of Kyoto's samurai legacy!
With its awe-inspiring hall housing 1,001 statues of Kannon, embodying serenity and craftsmanship, Sanjusangendo is a spiritual marvel.
Walk through the flourishing bamboo forest and discover the alluring beauty of the surroundings.
Visit the icon of Kyoto, the "Golden Pavilion," covered with gold foil.
Learn about an elegant traditional Kyoto artform and create your own keepsake with a fun crafting experience.
One of the most enjoyable ways to experience Kyoto's elegance is on foot. Our half-day tour is thoughtfully designed to highlight the magic of each season. Stroll through spring's blossoms, bask in the lush greenery of summer, admire vibrant autumn foliage, or enjoy the serene beauty of Kyoto's winter snow. Immerse yourself in the captivating charm of this ancient capital all year round!
Ascend the pilgrimage path for a breathtaking bird's-eye view of Kyoto at your feet.
Head out to explore the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine on your own adventure! Hop on a train or grab a taxi – your choice (transportation and entrance fees are on your own). Enjoy the journey!
Nishiki Market is a food lover's paradise and a must-visit for anyone wanting to taste Kyoto's local flavors! This bustling marketplace is packed with everything from fresh seafood to unique snacks you won't find anywhere else. Explore on your own or along with our guide
Take a ferry across the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima for an up-close view of the iconic floating Torii Gate and the sacred Itsukushima Shrine.
Ascend through the scenic splendor of Miyajima's lush forests on the Miyajima Ropeway, where breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea unfold like a delicate tapestry beneath the sacred peak of Mount Misen.
Hiroshima's small-town feel makes it an ideal place to experience local cuisine independently (with the help of our suggestions of course!).
"Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." —George Santayana. Encounter history at a profound memorial including the Hypocenter, A-Bomb Dome, and the Museum, dedicated to the preservation of peace.
What really made this a pleasurable travel experience for me was Hiroko (our tour guide) and the group of friends I had attended with. Hiroko was very personable, approachable, humorous, and made gallant efforts to keep the group moving. I appreciate her leadership and personal attention to ALL detail. I would recommend this tour to friends and family, but Hiroko made the experience for me even better.
My wife and I recently enjoyed the Japan Classic Tour. At first, we doubted Super Value's veracity, as what they offered seemed too good to be true for the asking price. Comparable tour companies paled in tour value and substantially exceeded SV's costs. But SV delivered in every way possible: stellar hotels, superior transportation, excellent and abundant authentic Japanese meals, interesting venues and local tours, and unique country special offerings (such as visits to Onsen, traditional baths; famous gardens; and a night at a Ryokan). Above all, SV - - in this case Tour Guide Eriko - - provided the most careful, attentive and personal service to each and every guest imaginable or possible. Eriko is university educated, smart, witty, pleasant, with excellent knowledge of Japanese history, culture, art and modern traditions. Her English was near flawless. Far above and beyond any expectations, Eriko worked tirelessly to ensure every guest's personal comfort, particularly regarding meals, accommodations and airport transfers. We highly recommend Super Value [now Supera Tours] and tour guide, par excellence, Eriko.
My wife and I recently returned from the Japan Classics-10 day tour. We had a great time! Our tour guide, Eriko Kimura, is the best!! She was well organized, always friendly, and extremely helpful to everyone in the tour. She did a good job explaining the history, traditions, and customs of Japan. She went over and beyond what you might expect a tour guide to do. The hotels were very, very nice. The variety of experiences was amazing. Even sleeping on the floor on futons and tatami mats was surprisingly comfortable. What a great variety of delicious, glorious food! The tour is great for first-timers to Japan. It gives you a nice variety of experiences and leaves you ready for a return trip. Did I mention that Eriko is the best!!!
We used Super Value Tours for a trip to Japan in May/June 2019. Our guide, Miki, was excellent: very organized & super efficient in managing all our rooms, transportation, setting up meal reservations, very mindful of food allergies/preference, & giving directions to places of interest (in addition to the scheduled tour) or for transportation at the end of the tour. She was great in relaying history, culture, & whatever questions we threw her way. We stayed at very nice hotels & had impressive meals which we probably would not have afforded on our own. The itinerary was great & we hit the major sites of interest plus a few extra fun stuff like dressing up in kimonos or as samurai, & a workshop on dyeing a keepsake with multi stencils. We have now joined our friends as major fans of Super Value Tours & hope to use this tour group for trips in the future.
My wife and I have visited all 7 continents and over 50 countries. This is the first travel review I have ever posted. We took the Japan Classics Tour in September 2019. It was wonderful. Our tour guide was Eriko. She was amazing. She was organized, caring, encouraging, hard working, and extremely knowledgeable. I could go on. I think she was the best tour guide we have ever had. We loved her. Everything about the tour was first class. The food was great. The hotels were fantastic. The buses were top notch. Unlike most tours, we were provided great meals 3 times a day. There were absolutely no corners cut. Everything was paid for. It was apparent that Eriko was afforded superb support by her people back in the "office". Everything ran like clock-work. The itinerary was excellent. It was apparent that it was thought out. We could not have been more pleased. We would highly recommend this tour...