Translated from Icelandic
This 15-day winter trip around Japan offers a good blend of major cities, traditions and culture, exciting day trips, and an enchanting winter atmosphere. The journey begins with a four-day stay in Tokyo—one of the largest cities on Earth. We will walk through the enchanting Yoyogi Park and visit Meiji Shrine. The vibrant life of Shibuya and Harajuku meets the old neighbourhood of Asakusa, along with spectacular views over the city from the 634-metre Tokyo Skytree tower. We will then explore the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, along with Ginza, Japan’s best-known shopping district, and finally the group will experience a spectacular art exhibition at Teamlab Borderless. Next, the journey continues to Kyoto by Japanese shinkansen bullet train, where Japanese temples, bamboo forests and beautiful streets take centre stage. We will then take a day trip to Osaka to see the castle and the retro neon district of Shinsekai. The trip then continues to Hiroshima, stopping at Himeji Castle and Korakuen Garden in Okayama. In Hiroshima, we will visit the Peace Memorial Museum and the sacred island of Miyajima. Finally, we return to Tokyo, where a day trip to the coastal town of Kamakura or a free day for relaxation and shopping is offered. Finally, the Japanese fish market Tsukiji and the entertainment district of Shinjuku will be visited. This diverse winter trip offers a different view of Japan—outside the high season, there are fewer tourists around, and it will be enjoyable to experience the tranquillity that comes with winter.
Hosted by
Elísabet Hulda Snorradóttir
Elísabet Hulda Snorradóttir and Thelma Heimisdóttir organised this trip and oversee the tour’s guidance together with Japanese guides. They both have many years of experience leading tours. Elísabet has lived in Hokkaido, Tokyo and Kyoto. She holds a B.A. in Chinese studies, with a focus on Japanese studies, from the University of Iceland. She has also worked at a Japanese sushi restaurant.
From
690.000 kr.per person
Thelma has lived in Tokyo for 11 years, holds a B.A. in Japanese from the University of Iceland, studied as an exchange student at Gakushuin University in Tokyo, and has a diploma in acting from the Tokyo Film Centre School of Arts. She has also worked as an adviser at the Embassy of Iceland in Tokyo and appeared in Japanese plays and television programmes.
Included · Finnair · Economy · 2 × 23 kg
Outbound · Fri, Dec 4
3 hrs 25 mins · AY994 · Economy
13 hrs 25 mins · AY61 · Economy
Lent 5. des. (lau)
Return · Sat, Dec 19
13 hrs 5 mins · AY62 · Economy
3 hrs 55 mins · AY991 · Economy
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.
Lent 20. des. (sun)
Day 1 · Fri, Dec 4
Outbound travel
Dec 5 – 8 · 4 nights
Modern budget-friendly city hotel by Sengakuji Station, near the Shinagawa district. The hotel was built in 2015.
Spacious hotel surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, offering a peaceful setting in the heart of Tokyo. Close to restaurants, shops, and Shinagawa Station.
Elegant luxury hotel with Japanese gardens, spacious rooms, and a tranquil atmosphere in a prime location in Shinagawa.
Day 2 · Sat, Dec 5
Welcome to Tokyo!
Flight
Hanedakuko, Ota City, Tokyo 144-0041, Japan
We land at Haneda Airport, where Elísabet Hulda will meet the group. There will also be an opportunity to install an eSIM in your phone (internet connection) and purchase a PASMO train card. We then head to the hotel in Shinagawa.
Bus
Shinagawa City, Tokyo, Japan
Once we arrive in the Shinagawa district, we check in at the hotel. There, the tour leaders, Elísabet Hulda and Thelma, will give a presentation about the trip and answer questions. Finally, people can walk around the district and have dinner. Elísabet Hulda and Thelma will be available to assist the group with reservations and restaurant recommendations.
Day 3 · Sun, Dec 6
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 tranquil morning combined with Japanese traditions and culture.
Harajuku, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
Day 4 · Mon, Dec 7
Asakusa & Tokyo Skytree
Bus
1-chōme-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
Day 5 · Tue, Dec 8
Imperial Palace & Ginza
Bus
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
We start 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
Dec 9 – 12 · 4 nights
Excellent location directly opposite Kyoto Station, ideal for those who want to get around the city easily. A very affordable hotel option.
Stylish hotel within walking distance of Kyoto Station, with modern facilities and a Japanese bathhouse (Onsen) for guests.
Luxury hotel located directly above Kyoto Station, combining excellent comfort with an exceptionally convenient location.
Day 6 · Wed, Dec 9
Welcome to Kyoto!
Rail
Kyoto, Japan
Dec 13 – 15 · 3 nights
Affordable city hotel near Hiroshima Station with a Japanese bathhouse (Onsen) for guests.
New and elegant hotel with direct connections to Hiroshima Station, a perfect location, and modern amenities.
Modern luxury hotel with spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and first-class service in central Hiroshima.
Day 10 · Sun, Dec 13
Travel day to Hiroshima via Himeji and Korakuen
Bus
68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan
Dec 16 – 19 · 3 nights
Modern city hotel at an affordable price by Sengakuji Station, near the Shinagawa district. The hotel was built in 2015.
Spacious hotel surrounded by beautiful Japanese gardens, offering a peaceful setting in the heart of Tokyo. Close to restaurants, shops, and Shinagawa Station.
Elegant luxury hotel with Japanese gardens, spacious rooms, and a tranquil atmosphere in a prime location in Shinagawa.
Day 13 · Wed, Dec 16
Travel day to Tokyo
Bus
Day 17 · Sun, Dec 20
Return travel
When arriving in Harajuku, you can experience a completely different atmosphere. The neighbourhood 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 the Shibuya Crossing, which is the most famous crossing in Japan. Up to 500,000 people cross there every 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 Chome-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
At the Shibuya Crossing, we also find the Hachiko statue - one of Japan’s most famous dogs, who waited for its owner to return from work at the same place every day for many years, including for 9 years after the 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 the elevator up to the roof of Scramble Square and enjoy amazing views over the city from a height of 230 metres.
Bus
We begin the day with a visit to Japan's largest tower, in fact the world's largest tower, Tokyo Skytree, which is 634 metres tall. From there, you can see the entire city from a height of 300 or 400 metres.
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 there. It is also possible to light incense to drive 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 enjoyable to walk along the nearby Nakamise Street and see traditional shops, street food, and two-person rickshaws pulled by young, sturdy Japanese men.
1-chōme-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
OPTIONAL: The Edo-Tokyo Museum is one of the coolest history museums in Japan. You can easily spend 2 hours here learning about Japanese history and culture.
Bus
Ginza is Japan’s best-known shopping district. You can find all kinds of shops, restaurants, and beautiful boulevards there. Ginza is also known for its interesting architecture and magnificent 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. Modern technology blends with art through digital artworks that can be incredible. An especially enjoyable experience for families and couples. The day ends in Roppongi.
Bus
We take the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, and along the way people can eat a traditional Japanese lunch (obento-box), available at all major train stations.
Bus
1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
After arriving in Kyoto, we visit Kinkaku-ji ("the Golden Pavilion"), which is one of the most beautiful places in Japan. There is also a magnificent landscaped garden that is enjoyable to explore.
13 Ryōanji Goryōnoshitachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, Japan
Near the Golden Pavilion, we find another temple, Ryoanji ("the dragon temple"), which contains a beautiful Zen garden. There is a unique sense of peace and tranquility there that everyone needs to experience.
Bus
Day 7 · Thu, Dec 10
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Gion
Bus
Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan
The day begins in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. It is a stunning and peaceful environment, perfect for a walk. We then take part in a Japanese tea ceremony, which is an enjoyable cultural experience.
1-5 Sagatenryūji Susukinobabachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8384, Japan
A beautiful bridge in Arashiyama offering views over the river and the forested mountains, especially beautiful in winter. Near the bridge, we 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 interspersed 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
Day 8 · Fri, Dec 11
Temple visits or a free day
Bus
1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
The day begins at one of Kyoto’s foremost temples. Kiyomizu-dera (“the temple of pure water”) is a Buddhist temple that offers exceptionally good views over the city from a large wooden platform.
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 forming a unique walking route up the hillside.
Bus
Day 9 · Sat, Dec 12
Day trip to Osaka
Bus
1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
One of Japan’s most famous landmarks, a magnificent 16th-century castle surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich national history.
2 Chome-5 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Shinsekai – A colorful retro neon district in Osaka with old Japanese charm and bustling street life.
Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Osaka’s liveliest district, famous for its neon signs, street food, and generally great atmosphere.
Bus
The day begins with a short train journey to Himeji. Often called Japan’s most beautiful castle, it is the country’s best-preserved medieval castle and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rail
2-chōme-7-7 Ishizekichō, Kita Ward, Okayama, 700-0813, Japan
After Himeji, the journey continues to Okayama. There we visit Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens, with ponds, bridges, and seasonal floral displays.
Rail
Hiroshima, Japan
After Okayama, we complete the travel day with the final leg to Hiroshima.
Bus
Day 11 · Mon, Dec 14
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
A powerful museum that tells the story of the atomic bombing and its consequences.
1-chōme-1-10 Ōtemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
The hypocenter of the bombing. This magnificent building remains as a memorial to the destruction caused by the attacks, but also to hope for peace in the future.
Ferry
Itsukushima, Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
After lunch, the journey continues 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
Beautiful Buddhist temple on Miyajima with a tranquil atmosphere, small statues, and forest paths.
Ferry
Bus
Day 12 · Tue, Dec 15
Free day / day trips from Hiroshima
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 the 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
A cable car that transports visitors up to Iwakuni Castle, with beautiful views of the Kintaikyo Bridge and the surrounding area.
Rail
Shinagawa City, Tokyo, Japan
Train journey by Shinkansen high-speed train from Hiroshima to Tokyo. We recommend buying a traditional Japanese bento box with lunch at the train station. Once in Tokyo, you can relax at the hotel and explore the Shinagawa area.
Walking
Day 14 · Thu, Dec 17
Day trip to the coastal town of Kamakura
Bus
4-chōme-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016, Japan
Day trip to Kamakura - A historic coastal city with temples, shrines, and a relaxed atmosphere a short distance from Tokyo. Here you can see Kotoku-in - an approximately 13-metre-high bronze statue of Amida Buddha that has stood outdoors for over 750 years.
3-chōme-11-2 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016, Japan
A beautiful Buddhist temple where you can see a 9m-high wooden statue of the goddess Kannon.
2-chōme-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-8588, Japan
An impressive Shinto shrine from the 11th century associated with the history of samurai in the area. The shogunate was in power in Kamakura, Japan, from the 12th to the 14th century.
Bus
Day 15 · Fri, Dec 18
Tsukiji Fish Market & Shinjuku
Bus
Japan, 〒104-0045 Tokyo, Chuo City, Tsukiji, 4-chōme−16 および６丁目一部
The day starts earlier than usual, at 9:00, with a trip to Tsukiji Fish Market. It is full of life and has an amazing selection of seafood that can be fun to explore.
4-chōme-10-6 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
After strolling around the market, we will have sushi lunch together at Sushizanmai, which is known for its wide selection of sushi dishes at reasonable prices.
Bus
Rail
Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
In the evening, we will head to Shinjuku, where the entertainment district of Kabukicho is famous for its thousands of neon signs and street food.
Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukichō, 1-chōme−1−６ あかるい花園 五番街
For those who want to experience Tokyo’s bar culture, Goldengai is an ideal place to visit. There are small bars for 5-10 people everywhere, and charming traditional lanterns light the way.
Day 16 · Sat, Dec 19
Free day in Tokyo and departure home to Iceland
Tokyo, Japan
During our trip around Japan, we have already visited the main major cities, including many of Tokyo’s main neighborhoods. However, here are a few examples of neighborhoods we have not visited: Ueno, Akihabara, Koenji, and Ikebukuro.
Bus
Hanedakuko, Ota City, Tokyo 144-0041, Japan
As this is an evening flight, it may be a good idea to use the day for shopping or to explore more of the city. However, if people would rather go to the airport early, we recommend Haneda Airport Garden, which includes a bathhouse, shops, restaurants, and relaxation rooms where people can recharge before the flight.
Flight
