Licensed by the Icelandic Tourist Board
Takanawa Travel ehf.
Trip To Japan
License no. 2025-039
Translated from Icelandic
From
890.000 kr.per person
Included · Finnair · Economy · 2 × 23 kg
Outbound · Sun, Dec 20
3 hrs 25 mins · AY992 · Economy
13 hrs 25 mins · AY61 · Economy
Arrives Mon, Dec 21
Return · Mon, Jan 4
13 hrs 5 mins · AY068 · Economy
3 hrs 55 mins · AY991 · Economy
Arrives Tue, Jan 5
Day 1 · Sun, Dec 20
Outbound travel
Dec 21 – 24 · 4 nights
Nútímalegt borgarhótel á hagstæðu verði við Sengakuji-stöð, nálægt Shinagawa hverfinu. Hótelið var byggt árið 2015.
Rúmgott hótel umlukið fallegum japönskum görðum sem býður upp á friðsælt umhverfi í hjarta Tókýó. Stutt í veitingastaði, verslanir og Shinagawa-lestarstöðina.
Glæsilegt lúxushótel með japönskum görðum, rúmgóðum herbergjum og rólegu andrúmslofti á besta stað í Shinagawa.
Day 2 · Mon, Dec 21
Welcome to Tokyo!
Tell us your dates, group size, and what you're hoping to see — our Japan specialists will help you pick the perfect group departure. We usually reply within the hour.
Licensed by the Icelandic Tourist Board
Takanawa Travel ehf.
Trip To Japan
License no. 2025-039
Flight
Hanedakuko, Ota City, Tokyo 144-0041, Japan
We land at Haneda Airport, where Elísabet Hulda will meet the group. Here, there is also an opportunity to put an e-sim in one’s phone (internet connection) and purchase a PASMO train card. We then head up to the hotel in Shinagawa.
Bus
Shinagawa City, Tokyo, Japan
When we arrive in the Shinagawa district, we check in at the hotel. There, the tour leaders, Elísabet Hulda and/or Thelma, will give a presentation about the trip and answer questions. Finally, people can walk around the district and have dinner. Elísabet Hulda and/or Thelma will assist the group with reservations and restaurant recommendations.
Day 3 · Tue, Dec 22
Shibuya & Harajuku
Bus
1-1 Yoyogikamizonochō, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan
Every morning starts at 10:00. This day begins with a visit to the Shinto shrine Meiji Jingu. It is located in the beautiful public park Yoyogi and is a good example of traditional Japanese architectural style. From there, we then go to Harajuku. A truly beautiful and peaceful morning combined with Japanese traditions and culture.
Harajuku, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
Once we arrive in Harajuku, you can experience a completely different atmosphere. The neighborhood is bustling with life - Japanese “hipsters,” fashion, street food, and countless neon signs. Next, we go to Shibuya and have lunch.
Bus
21 Udagawacho, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan
After lunch, we explore Shibuya Crossing, which is Japan’s most famous crossing. Up to 500,000 people cross there each day. It can be amazing to experience the crowds both on the street and from above. The view can be seen from the Shibuya Scramble Square building, next to the crossing.
2-chōme-1-1 Dōgenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
At Shibuya Crossing, we also find the Hachiko statue - one of Japan’s most famous dogs, who waited for his owner to return from work at the same place every day for many years, including for 9 years after his owner’s death. A fun photo opportunity.
Japan, 〒150-6145 Tokyo, Shibuya, 2-chōme−24−１２ スクランブルスクエア 14階・45階 46階・屋上
OPTIONAL: Here you can take an elevator up to the roof of Scramble Square and enjoy amazing views over the city from a height of 230 meters.
Bus
Day 4 · Wed, Dec 23
Asakusa & Tokyo Skytree
Bus
1-chōme-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
We begin the day with a visit to Japan’s tallest tower, in fact the tallest tower in the world, Tokyo Skytree, which is 634 meters tall. From there, you can see the entire city from a height of 300 or 400 meters.
2-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
After Skytree, we head to the old district of Asakusa, which offers traditional streets and the Buddhist temple Senso-ji. There is often enjoyable street food and souvenirs for sale. It is also possible to light incense to cleanse away evil spirits. A good opportunity to learn about Japanese religions.
1-chōme-36-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Immediately afterwards, it is fun to walk along nearby Nakamise Street and see traditional shops, street food, and two-person carts pulled by young, strong Japanese men.
1-chōme-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
OPTIONAL: The Edo-Tokyo Museum is one of Japan’s coolest history museums. You can easily spend 2 hours here learning about Japanese history and culture.
Bus
Day 5 · Thu, Dec 24
Imperial Palace & Ginza - Christmas Eve
Bus
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
We begin the day with a walk around the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Beautiful towers and traditional fortifications combined with skyscrapers on the other side of the street. For the runners in the group, it can be fun to run the entire palace loop, which is 5km long.
Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Ginza is Japan’s best-known shopping district. There you can find all kinds of shops, restaurants, and beautiful boulevards. Ginza is also known for its interesting architecture and elegant buildings.
Japan, 〒106-0041 Tokyo, Minato City, Toranomon, 5-chōme−9−９ Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B, B1
A short distance from Ginza, we head over to TeamLab Borderless, one of the most popular museums in Japan. There, modern technology blends with artistic creation through digital artworks that can be incredible. An especially fun experience for families and couples. The day ends in Roppongi.
Bus
Dec 25 – 28 · 4 nights
Frábær staðsetning beint á móti Kýótó-lestarstöðinni, tilvalið fyrir þá sem vilja komast auðveldlega um borgina. Mjög hagstæður hótelkostur.
Stílhreint hótel í göngufæri við Kýótó-lestarstöðina með nútímalegri aðstöðu.
Lúxushótel staðsett beint fyrir ofan Kýótó-lestarstöðina sem sameinar framúrskarandi þægindi og einstaklega góða staðsetningu.
Day 6 · Fri, Dec 25
Welcome to Kyoto! - Christmas Day
Rail
Kyoto, Japan
We will take the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, and along the way people can eat a traditional Japanese lunch (obento-box), which is available at all major train stations.
Bus
1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
After arriving in Kyoto, we will visit Kinkaku-ji ("the Golden Temple"), which is one of the most beautiful places in Japan. There is also a magnificent garden there that is enjoyable to explore.
13 Ryōanji Goryōnoshitachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, Japan
Near the Golden Temple we find another temple, Ryoanji ("the Dragon Temple"), which contains a beautiful Zen garden. There is a unique tranquility and peace there that everyone needs to experience.
Bus
Day 7 · Sat, Dec 26
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Gion
Bus
Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan
The day begins in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. It is a beautiful and peaceful setting, perfect for a walk. We will then take part in a Japanese tea ceremony, which is an enjoyable cultural experience.
1-5 Sagatenryūji Susukinobabachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8384, Japan
Day 8 · Sun, Dec 27
Visiting temples or a day off
Bus
1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
The day begins at one of Kyoto’s principal temples. Kiyomizu-dera (“water temple”) is a Buddhist temple that offers exceptionally good views over the city from a large wooden stage.
Day 9 · Mon, Dec 28
Day trip to Nara
Bus
406-1 Zōshichō, Nara, 630-8587, Japan
Dec 29 – 31 · 3 nights
Hagstætt borgarhótel við Híróshíma-lestarstöðina með japönsku baðhúsi (Onsen) fyrir gesti.
Nýtt og glæsilegt hótel með beinum tengingum við Híróshíma-lestarstöðina, fullkomin staðsetning og nútímaþægindi.
Nútímalegt lúxushótel með rúmgóðum herbergjum, innisundlaug og fyrsta flokks þjónustu í miðborg Híróshíma.
Day 10 · Tue, Dec 29
Travel day to Hiroshima via Himeji and Korakuen
Bus
68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan
The day begins with a short train ride to Himeji. Often called Japan’s most beautiful castle. This is the country’s best-preserved medieval castle and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rail
2-chōme-7-7 Ishizekichō, Kita Ward, Okayama, 700-0813, Japan
After Himeji, we continue on to Okayama. There we will visit Korakuen Garden. One of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens, with ponds, bridges, and seasonal flowers.
Rail
Hiroshima, Japan
After Okayama, we finish the travel day with the final leg to Hiroshima.
Bus
Day 11 · Wed, Dec 30
Hiroshima Peace Park & Miyajima Island
Bus
1 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
The day begins with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Park. Dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. An important visit for everyone.
1-2 Nakajimachō, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
Day 12 · Thu, Dec 31
Free day / day trips from Hiroshima - New Year's Eve
1 Chome-2 Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0062, Japan
This free day could be used for shopping trips, relaxing visits to bathhouses, or as a day trip to Iwatani, where you can find Kintaikyo Bridge - a unique five-arch wooden bridge that is one of Japan's best-known structures.
2-chōme-6-51 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan
Jan 1 – 4 · 3 nights
Day 13 · Fri, Jan 1
Welcome to Osaka! - New Year's Day
Rail
1-chōme-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-6016, Japan
After lunch at Osaka Station, we will visit Abeno Harukas. This is one of Osaka's best-known skyscrapers, standing 300 metres tall and located in the Tennoji district. On the upper floors is the Harukas 300 observation deck, offering spectacular views over Osaka and the surrounding area.
Japan, 〒545-6016 Osaka, Abeno Ward, Abenosuji, 1-chōme−1−４３ あべのハルカス 16階
Next, we will explore a modern art museum on the 16th floor of Abeno Harukas. There you can see everything from classical Japanese and Western art to contemporary art and international art exhibitions.
Bus
Day 14 · Sat, Jan 2
Osaka Castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori
Bus
1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
Day 15 · Sun, Jan 3
Day trip to Kobe
Rail
7-chōme-7-6 Minatojima Nakamachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0046, Japan
The day trip begins at the science and technology museum on Port Island in Kobe, which focuses on interactive exhibits about science, technology, space, and nature. The museum is particularly well suited to families and those interested in science.
Day 16 · Mon, Jan 4
Free day in Osaka and departure home to Iceland
1番地 Senshūkūkōkita, Izumisano, Osaka 549-0001, Japan
Since the flight is in the evening, it may be a good idea to use the day for shopping or to explore the city further. Osaka offers numerous shops, and the tour leader can guide guests on where best to look.
Day 17 · Tue, Jan 5
Return travel
A beautiful bridge in Arashiyama offering views over the river and the forested mountains, especially beautiful in winter. Near the bridge, we will then have a traditional Japanese lunch.
Bus
625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan
After lunch, we travel back to central Kyoto to explore the Gion district. There are small traditional streets mixed with Shinto shrines. Yasaka Shrine is known for the beautiful lanterns in its shrine grounds. It can be enjoyable to have a traditional Shabu-shabu dinner in the Gion district.
Bus
Bus
68 Fukakusa Yabunouchichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
Next, Fushimi Inari will be visited—a world-famous shrine with thousands of red torii gates that form a unique walking route up the hillside.
Bus
We begin the day by visiting one of Japan’s most famous Buddhist temples, known for the enormous bronze statue of Buddha seated inside one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. The temple was built in the 8th century and is one of Nara’s main landmarks.
Nara, Japan
Next, we walk to Nara Park. A large and beautiful public park in the heart of Nara, famous for the hundreds of wild deer that roam freely throughout the area. The deer have been considered sacred for centuries and are now one of the city’s main symbols.
160 Kasuganochō, Nara, 630-8212, Japan
After lunch at Nara Park, we continue to Kasuga Taisha Shrine. One of Nara’s most important Shinto shrines, founded in the 8th century and known for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns. The route passes through a beautiful forest where Nara’s deer can often be seen among the trees.
Bus
13-46 Gojōchō, Nara, 630-8032, Japan
A peaceful Buddhist temple from the 8th century, founded by the Chinese monk Ganjin, who played a major role in the spread of Buddhism in Japan. The temple is especially known for its well-preserved Nara-period architecture as well as its calm and traditional atmosphere.
Bus
A moving museum that tells the story of the atomic bombing and its consequences.
1-chōme-1-10 Ōtemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
Ground zero of the bomb. This magnificent building remains as a memorial to the destruction caused by the attacks, but also to the hope for peace in the future.
Ferry
Itsukushima, Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
After lunch, the journey heads over to Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima. The island is known for the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine and its peaceful natural surroundings. You can also find excellent Japanese oysters here. There are also numerous Japanese deer, which are messengers of the gods in the Shinto faith.
210 Miyajimachō, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
A beautiful Buddhist temple on Miyajima with a tranquil atmosphere, small statues, and forest paths.
Ferry
Bus
Cable car that takes visitors up to Iwakuni Castle, with beautiful views over Kintaikyo Bridge and the surrounding area.
12-1 Wakakusachō, Higashi Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0053, Japan
Dinner for the group at the Sheraton hotel to celebrate the New Year with food and drink.
The day begins with a visit to Osaka Castle. One of Osaka’s main landmarks and an important site in the history of Japan’s unification in the 16th century. The castle stands in an expansive park and contains a museum about its history as well as Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s most influential leaders.
2 Chome-5 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
A lively and nostalgic retro district that emerged in the early 20th century and has preserved the city’s distinctive atmosphere as it was in the last century. Tsutenkaku Tower towers over the district, which is also known for its colorful streets and kushikatsu, deep-fried food on skewers. A perfect opportunity to sample Japanese street food.
Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Osaka’s most famous entertainment district, known for neon lights, enormous billboards, and bustling life along the Dotonbori canal. This is an ideal place to try more Osaka dishes such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Bus
Kobe
The highlight of the day is a lunch consisting of Kobe beef, with a tasting of Sake rice wine for those who wish. Some of the best beef in Japan and an informative overview of the history of Sake rice wine.
1 Chome-7 Higashikawasakicho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0044, Japan
We end the day with a visit to the harbour area by Kobe Bay, with shops, restaurants, and a beautiful walking path offering views of the harbour. The area is especially beautiful as dusk falls and the city and harbour lights come on.
Rail
