Japan Iternity
Japan is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean with dense cities imperial palaces mountainous national parks and thousands of shrines and temples. Shinkansen bullet trains connect the main islands of Kyushu
Originally constructed for the private residence of "daimyo" (feudal lord) Naito in the Edo
period, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden has served as a public park under the Ministry of
the Environment since its reconstruction after World War II. Tour the park to see its three
main sections: a traditional Japanese garden dotted with ponds intercepted by islands and
bridges; a symmetrically planned French garden; and an English garden with sweeping
lawns and cherry blossom trees. Stop by the greenhouse to inspect the permanent and
special exhibits of tropical flowers.
Overnight at Hotel.
Home of the imperial family, Imperial Palace and its expansive grounds stand among the
city most popular attractions for foreign visitors. Badly damaged during World War II the
palace underwent a massive reconstruction project in the 1960s. Today visitors tour the
complex at the heart of the city to see the living and working quarters of the imperial family as well as an array of historic landmarks that include lush gardens and a famous stone bridge. Keep in mind that you must book a tour by phone or via the palace website in order
to join a guided tour on the day of your visit. Tour spots fill up fast, so reserve yours early to
avoid disappointment upon arrival.
Among the country's, and the world's, largest institutions of its kind, Tokyo National
Museum exhibits Buddhist and Japanese artwork, woodblocks, kimonos, and other cultural
gems. Browse the museum's collection of more than 100,000 artifacts spread out over five
different buildings to take a step back into the nation's past. Note that exhibits and displays
feature descriptions and signage in English--you can also check out an English-language
audio guide at the entrance.
Afternoon Tour to Senso-ji Temple
Completed in 645 CE, Senso-ji Temple holds the status of being the oldest temple in Tokyo.
The temple grounds contain an independent Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine. Enter
through the imposing Thunder Gate and walk the shopping street, lined with about 90 food
and souvenir shops and dating back to the early 18th century, up to the main hall. The
temple complex, including the main hall, contains buildings both historic and reconstructed
since World War II. Don’t miss the five-story pagoda and the garden and pond surrounding
the " Demboinquo (high priest’s residence).
Evening Free and overnight at Hotel.
Check Out from Hotel and heading towards Osaka.
Arrival Osaka. Check IN at Hotel Universal Port.
Overnight at Hotel
Built and rebuilt numerous times since 1653, Osaka Castle looms over its surrounding
gardens, moats, imposing stone walls, gates, and turrets. Take the elevator up to the
observation deck on the castle’s eighth floor, or wander the garden between the complex’s
many structures, stopping in the tea house for a snack. The castle, originally intended to
help with the unification of Japan, was captured and changed hands over a dozen times.
Visit the museum within to learn more about the castle’s history.
Afternoon tour to Tsutenkaku
Tourists easily identify Tsutenkaku in the Osaka skyline, as the octagonal metal structure
gleams by day and shines with colorful LED lights at night. The structure, completed in its
current form in 1956, rises to an imposing 103 m (338 ft) and hosts a viewing platform at 91
m (298.5 ft). The LED lights, which illuminate the tower, change color every couple of
months, usually to honor a particular season or event. Check out the advertisements from
Hitachi, the structure's main sponsor since 1957, displayed with the tower's lights.
Abeno Harukas
At a soaring 300 m (984 ft), Abeno Harukas broke the record for tallest building in Japan
when it was completed in 2014. The building contains a hotel, a massive department store,
a museum, and a glass observatory with spectacular views of Osaka. Stop by the sky
garden cafe to enjoy refreshments with a 360-degree vista of the city below.
Evening tour to Kuchu Teien Observatory
Take the elevator to Kuchu Teien Observatory to enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka's
skyline. The viewing deck is located on the rooftop of one of the city's tallest buildings, a
173 m (567 feet) tall high-rise. Relish the encapsulating, 360-degree vista of the city from
the top, and the ride in the inclined glass elevator along the way. Before you head down,
drop by the rooftop cafe for a drink and a snack.
Overnight at Hotel Universal Port.
Check Out from Hotel and heading towards Tokyo. Arrival Tokyo. Check IN at Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier. Overnight at Hotel.
The first Disney theme park outside of the United States, Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983
to provide the same magic and fun that makes Disney World famous. The park contains
seven sections: a World Bazaar, the four classic Disney worlds (Westernland,
Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Adventureland), Critter Country, and Mickey’s Toontown.
Featuring many of the beloved rides and attractions based on Disney’s classic films, the
park draws tremendous crowds. Research tickets in advance and wear comfortable shoes
to navigate the park’s vast open spaces.
Overnight at Hotel.
After Breakfast Check Out from Hotel.
Transfer to Tokyo International Airport to catch flight for onward destination.