Licensed by the Icelandic Tourist Board
Takanawa Travel ehf.
Trip To Japan
License no. 2025-039
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu / Sumo / MMA
Valentin Fels Camilleri
Local expert
Feel like planning your own version?
This package is based on an itinerary you can adapt for your own dates, hotels, and pace.
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
9 nights
Convenient location in Shinagawa with large rooms, excellent for sharing, make this hotel a good base from where to explore Tokyo.
Day 1
Welcome to Tokyo!
Check-in and settle in to Shinagawa before exploring other parts of the city.
Shinagawa City, Tokyo, Japan
A convenient and polished Tokyo base that combines excellent transport connections with quieter residential neighborhoods, restaurants and waterfront areas. Shinagawa provides easy access to the rest of Tokyo while offering a welcome break from the busiest districts.
3-chōme-7-15 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 140-0001, Japan
A historic Shinto shrine dating back to the 12th century, tucked away from Tokyo’s major tourist routes. Climb the small replica of Mount Fuji and enjoy a peaceful introduction to Japanese shrine culture.
Japan, 〒108-0074 Tokyo, Minato City, Takanawa, 4-chōme−10−１８ 京急ショッピングプラザウイング高輪WEST-Ⅱ 3F
3-chōme-9-1 Koyama, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 142-0062, Japan
A traditional neighborhood bathhouse known for its distinctive natural black mineral water and open-air bathing. An excellent way to relax tired muscles and experience Japanese bathing culture after the journey to Tokyo.
Day 2
Yoyogi Park, Harajuku & Shibuya
Full day guided tour through some of the most iconic areas of Tokyo.
2-1 Yoyogikamizonochō, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan
One of central Tokyo’s largest green spaces and a popular gathering place for locals. Its broad paths and relaxed atmosphere provide a refreshing contrast to the energy of nearby Harajuku and Shibuya.
1-1 Yoyogikamizonochō, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan
One of Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The peaceful walk through its enormous forest and towering torii gates feels remarkably removed from the surrounding metropolis.
Day 3
BJJ Seminar with Igor Tanabe
Here the main event of the day is the 2 hour BJJ seminar by Igor Tanabe. Afterwards, feel free to explore Shibuya or other neighbourhoods of Tokyo.
川又ビル B1F, 2-chōme-26-22 Nozawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0003, Japan
Day 4
BJJ Seminar with Shinya Aoki (and Imperial Palace)
Here, the main event is also the BJJ/MMA seminar from Shinya Aoki. Afterwards, we recommend visiting the Imperial Palace and the Chiyoda Area of Tokyo.
川又ビル B1F, 2-chōme-26-22 Nozawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0003, Japan
Day 5
IBJJF Day 1 and Asakusa Walking Tour
The idea here is to split the day into 2 options: you either compete at the IBJJF events or you spend your day exploring East Tokyo. In this case, Asakusa and its surrounding areas.
1-20 Tonyachō, Chuo Ward, Chiba, 260-0025, Japan
All IBJJF events take place at the Chiba Port Arena, just east of Tokyo. For those competing, this is a full day event.
Day 6
IBJJF Day 2 / Optional Kamakura Tour
The idea here is to split the day into 2 options: you either compete at the IBJJF events or you spend your day on this day trip to Kamakura, just southwest of Tokyo.
1-20 Tonyachō, Chuo Ward, Chiba, 260-0025, Japan
All IBJJF events take place at the Chiba Port Arena, just east of Tokyo. For those competing, this is a full day event.
Day 7
IBJJF Day 3 / Ueno Area
The idea here is to split the day into 2 options: you either compete at the IBJJF events or you spend your day exploring Tokyo. In this case, the Ueno Area.
1-20 Tonyachō, Chuo Ward, Chiba, 260-0025, Japan
All IBJJF events take place at the Chiba Port Arena, just east of Tokyo. For those competing, this is a full day event.
1-chōme-19-1 Minamisenju, Arakawa City, Tokyo 116-0003, Japan
Day 8
IBJJF Day 4 / Roppongi Area
The idea here is to split the day into 2 options: you either compete at the IBJJF events or you spend your day exploring Tokyo. In this case, the Roppongi Area.
1-20 Tonyachō, Chuo Ward, Chiba, 260-0025, Japan
All IBJJF events take place at the Chiba Port Arena, just east of Tokyo. For those competing, this is a full day event.
Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0032, Japan
Day 9
IBJJF Day 5 / Ebisu Area
The idea here is to split the day into 2 options: you either compete at the IBJJF events or you spend your day exploring Tokyo. In this case, the Ebisu Area.
1-20 Tonyachō, Chuo Ward, Chiba, 260-0025, Japan
All IBJJF events take place at the Chiba Port Arena, just east of Tokyo. For those competing, this is a full day event.
Ebisu, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0013, Japan
2 nights
Day 10
Sumo Morning Practice and Trip to Hiroshima
This is a long day. We start with a sumo morning practice and optional Chanko-lunch. Then we take the 4 hour long Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hiroshima.
Tokyo
2 nights
Day 12
Hiroshima Morning & Osaka Afternoon
A long travel day from Hiroshima to Kyoto via Osaka. We start the morning in Hiroshima, learning about the atomic bombs and the history of the city's revival. Then we head over to Osaka to learn about it's vibrant street food and nightlife. Finally, we make our way to Kyoto.
1 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
1 night
Day 14
Kyoto Morning Market & trip back to Tokyo
Visit the Nishiki market for a last chance at souvenirs before heading back to Tokyo for a final night in Japan.
Higashiuoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan
(optional dinner) — A lively Brazilian churrasco restaurant where freshly grilled meats are carved directly at the table. A great option for hungry travelers—and particularly well suited to the appetites of a BJJ group!
1-chōme-16-6 Jingūmae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
The colorful heart of Harajuku’s youth culture, packed with fashion boutiques, sweets, character shops and wonderfully eccentric Tokyo trends. Expect crowds, sensory overload and plenty of photo opportunities.
Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingūmae, 1-chōme−7−１ CUTE CUBE HARAJUKU 3F
A relaxing café experience where visitors can take a break from sightseeing while spending time with a variety of friendly cats. A fun optional stop in the middle of energetic Harajuku.
Cat St, 3-chōme-18 Jingūmae, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
A pedestrian-friendly backstreet linking Harajuku and Shibuya, known for independent fashion, sneakers, vintage stores and stylish cafés. It offers a much more relaxed shopping experience than nearby Takeshita Street.
4-chōme-12-10 Jingūmae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
Tokyo’s elegant, tree-lined fashion avenue, sometimes compared to the Champs-Élysées. Flagship designer stores and striking contemporary architecture make the street itself as interesting as the shopping.
21 Udagawacho, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan
Perhaps the world’s most famous pedestrian crossing and one of the defining images of modern Tokyo. When the lights change, hundreds of people simultaneously pour into the intersection beneath Shibuya’s giant video screens.
Japan, 〒152-0031 Tokyo, Meguro City, Nakane, 2-chōme−4−１７ GSハイム都立大102
Optional BJJ / MMA gym to train at.
We make our way to Life Jiu Jitsu Academy for the special training seminar with Igor Tanabe. The seminar itself takes 2 hours.
Japan, 〒224-0037 Kanagawa, Yokohama, Tsuzuki Ward, Chigasakiminami, 4-chōme−1−３６ フラワーウッド２
Optional training gym offering walk-in classes.
4-chōme-12-1 Higashi, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0011, Japan
Take to Tokyo’s streets in a small go-kart and experience Shibuya from an entirely different perspective. A high-energy optional activity and an unforgettable way to see the neon side of the city.
Japan, 〒150-0043 Tokyo, Shibuya, Dōgenzaka, １丁目１２−１
(optional dinner) — A Tokyo institution famous for beautifully tender Japanese breaded pork cutlets served with rice, cabbage and tonkatsu sauce. Straightforward, satisfying Japanese comfort food that works particularly well after an active day.
Japan, 〒150-0022 Tokyo, Shibuya, Ebisuminami, 1-chōme−14−１５ ラ・レンヌ恵比寿
Experience one of Japan’s favorite nights out with private-room karaoke in the heart of Shibuya. Grab some drinks, choose your songs and discover which members of the group should—or definitely should not—be given a microphone.
We make our way to Life Jiu Jitsu Academy for the special training seminar with Shinya Aoki. The seminar itself takes 2 hours.
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
The residence of Japan’s Imperial Family sits at the historic heart of Tokyo, surrounded by moats, stone walls and extensive gardens. The palace grounds provide a fascinating link between modern Tokyo and the former site of Edo Castle.
1 Chome Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan
More than just a railway hub, Tokyo Station is a landmark in its own right, famous for its beautifully restored red-brick Marunouchi façade. Beneath and around the station lies a huge world of restaurants, shops and underground passages.
Nihonbashi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0027, Japan
The historic commercial heart of Tokyo and the point from which Japan traditionally measures road distances. Today, centuries-old businesses and traditional food shops sit alongside department stores and modern architecture.
Japan, 〒100-0004 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Ōtemachi, 2-chōme−2−１ 新大手町ビル地下1階
The world renowned NINJA RESTAURANT! (optional dinner) — An immersive themed restaurant where secret passages, ninja performances and theatrical dishes turn dinner into an experience. A particularly fitting—and slightly ridiculous in the best possible way—evening for a martial arts group.
Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
One of the best places to experience the atmosphere of old Tokyo, with traditional streets, temples, shops and street food surrounding Senso-ji. It provides a striking contrast to the skyscrapers and neon of modern Tokyo.
2-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
The iconic Thunder Gate marks the entrance to Senso-ji and is instantly recognizable by its enormous red lantern. From here, Nakamise shopping street leads through traditional stalls toward Tokyo’s oldest major temple.
1-chōme-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
Rising 634 metres above the city, Tokyo Skytree is Japan’s tallest structure and offers extraordinary panoramic views across the Tokyo metropolis. On a clear day, you may even spot Mount Fuji on the horizon.
Japan, 〒141-0031 Tokyo, Shinagawa City, Nishigotanda, 8-chōme−6−２２ ルミネ五反田 102
Optional extra training for those keen.
4-chōme-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016, Japan
Home to Kamakura’s famous Great Buddha, a monumental bronze Amida Buddha dating from the 13th century. Sitting peacefully in the open air, it is one of the most memorable and iconic sights in the Kamakura area.
Japan, 〒248-0026 Kanagawa, Kamakura, Shichirigahamahigashi, 2-chōme−1, 七里ガ浜
A scenic stretch of coastline overlooking Sagami Bay, with views toward Enoshima and, in clear weather, Mount Fuji. It’s a relaxing seaside contrast to Tokyo and a great place to slow down during the Kamakura excursion.
パークハイアット東京, 52階, 3-chōme-7-1-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-1055, Japan
(optional evening) — High above Shinjuku, this sophisticated bar became internationally famous through Lost in Translation. Expect sweeping nighttime views of Tokyo, cocktails and live music in one of the city’s most cinematic settings.
A wonderfully old-school covered shopping arcade where neighborhood stores, food stalls and everyday Tokyo life remain largely untouched by mass tourism. It offers a glimpse into a quieter, more nostalgic side of the city.
4 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
One of the biggest public parks in Tokyo with beautiful greenery and depending on the season, diverse flower blossoms.
8-36 Uenokōen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
Located within Ueno Park, this major museum hosts a changing program of Japanese and international exhibitions. The visit offers a cultural pause from Tokyo’s streets and a look at both established and contemporary artistic traditions.
3-chōme-13-1 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan
A charming traditional shopping street filled with small food shops, crafts, cafés and local businesses. The surrounding Yanaka neighborhood is one of the best areas to experience the slower atmosphere of Tokyo’s older shitamachi districts.
7-chōme-14-8 Yanaka, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0001, Japan
A peaceful Buddhist temple in historic Yanaka with centuries of history and a large seated Buddha. Its tranquil grounds provide a quiet counterpoint to Tokyo’s busier sightseeing spots.
Japan, 〒160-0006 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Funamachi, 8−４ YKB舟町 B1
Optional BJJ / MMA gym for training.
One of Tokyo’s most international districts, combining contemporary architecture, major art museums, restaurants and nightlife. It’s an excellent area for seeing Tokyo’s sophisticated modern side.
Japan, 〒106-6150 Tokyo, Minato City, Roppongi, 6-chōme−10−１ Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 53階
A major contemporary art museum located high inside Roppongi Hills’ Mori Tower. Its exhibitions often explore global contemporary culture, while the surrounding complex provides spectacular views over Tokyo.
7-chōme-22-2 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo 106-8558, Japan
One of Japan’s largest exhibition spaces, housed inside an extraordinary wave-like glass building designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa. Rather than maintaining a permanent collection, it hosts a constantly changing program of exhibitions.
4-chōme-2-8 Shibakōen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan
Tokyo’s classic red-and-white communications tower has been a symbol of the city since 1958. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, it remains one of the most photogenic landmarks on the Tokyo skyline.
A fashionable but relaxed neighborhood known for excellent restaurants, cafés and bars. Less frantic than Shibuya or Shinjuku, it’s a great place to experience the more grown-up side of contemporary Tokyo.
Daikanyamacho, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0034, Japan
One of Tokyo’s most stylish neighborhoods, characterized by low-rise architecture, independent boutiques, design stores and excellent cafés. Its quiet streets feel almost village-like despite being just minutes from Shibuya.
1-chōme-16-30 Kasuga, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-0003, Japan
The historic home of Kodokan Judo, founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882 and one of the most important sites in the history of modern martial arts. For a BJJ group, this is a particularly meaningful visit to the birthplace of the art from which Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ultimately developed.
Get a rare behind-the-scenes look at Japan’s national sport by observing professional sumo wrestlers during their morning training. The intense practice, discipline and tradition should make this an especially memorable experience for a group of martial artists.
Rail
5-chōme-7-1 Rakurakuen, Saeki Ward, Hiroshima, 731-5136, Japan
After a long train ride you can relax at this spacious Japanese hot-spring facility in Hiroshima offering natural thermal baths, open-air bathing and relaxation areas. An ideal place to recover after travel and sightseeing while experiencing Japan’s everyday onsen culture.
Day 11
Day Trip to Miyajima / Itsukushima
1-1 Miyajimachō, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
One of Japan’s most celebrated Shinto shrines, famous for its vermilion buildings and enormous torii gate appearing to float on the sea at high tide. Set against the mountains of Miyajima, it is one of the country’s most iconic landscapes.
535 Miyajimachō, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
The lively main shopping street of Miyajima, lined with restaurants, souvenir shops and stalls selling local specialties. Try Hiroshima oysters, momiji manju sweets and other snacks while wandering through the island town.
Japan, 〒739-0522 Hiroshima, Hatsukaichi, Miyajimachō, 紅葉谷公園
Ride above the forests of Mount Misen for spectacular views across Miyajima and the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. From the upper station, hiking trails continue toward observation points and the summit.
210 Miyajimachō, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
An atmospheric Buddhist temple nestled into the wooded slopes of Mount Misen. Stone stairways, prayer wheels, statues and hundreds of small Buddhist figures make it one of Miyajima’s most fascinating—and surprisingly peaceful—places to explore.
Created near the hypocenter of the 1945 atomic bombing, the park is dedicated to the victims and to the pursuit of lasting peace. Its memorials and museum make this one of the most powerful and important historical visits of the journey.
1-chōme-1-10 Ōtemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
One of the few structures near the hypocenter to remain standing after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its ruins have become an international symbol of remembrance and peace.
Rail
1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
One of Osaka’s defining landmarks, originally constructed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the late 16th century. The reconstructed castle rises dramatically above massive stone walls and a broad park, offering a striking introduction to Osaka’s samurai-era history.
Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Osaka at its loudest and most colorful: enormous signs, glowing neon, street food and crowds line the canal through the heart of the entertainment district. Come hungry and look out for Osaka classics such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
2 Chome-5 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
A wonderfully retro Osaka neighborhood built around the unmistakable Tsutenkaku Tower. Famous for inexpensive restaurants, colorful signs and kushikatsu fried skewers, the district retains a rough-around-the-edges charm unlike almost anywhere else in Japan.
Day 13
Kyoto Shrines, Temples & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Full day exploration of the best of Kyoto.
Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0007, Japan
A scenic district on Kyoto’s western edge where mountains, temples and the Katsura River create a beautiful escape from the city center. The area is particularly famous for its towering bamboo grove, Togetsukyo Bridge and peaceful temple gardens.
68 Fukakusa Yabunouchichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
One of Kyoto’s most recognizable sights, famous for thousands of vermilion torii gates forming pathways up sacred Mount Inari. Walking even part of the mountain trail provides one of the quintessential experiences of Kyoto.
1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
A spectacular hillside Buddhist temple overlooking Kyoto, best known for its enormous wooden stage projecting above the forest. The temple and surrounding historic streets offer beautiful views and a vivid sense of traditional Kyoto.
Gion, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto’s famous historic entertainment district, characterized by traditional wooden machiya townhouses, teahouses and narrow atmospheric streets. It remains closely associated with Kyoto’s geiko and maiko culture, which visitors should observe respectfully without disrupting residents or performers.
Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this narrow covered market has served the city for centuries. Its stalls and small shops are an excellent place to discover Kyoto specialties, pickles, sweets, seafood and other distinctly Japanese flavors.
Rail
Japan, 〒100-0005 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Marunouchi, 1-chōme−9−１ 東京駅一番街 B1
Hidden beneath Tokyo Station is a collection of highly regarded ramen shops showcasing different regional styles and broths. It’s an ideal final food stop for anyone determined to squeeze one more bowl of ramen into the trip before heading home.
Day 15
Flight back home
Depending on which airport you are using, this day can be spent in central Tokyo or even in the small city of Narita.
Hanedakuko, Ota City, Tokyo 144-0041, Japan
1-1 Furugome, Narita, Chiba 282-0004, Japan
