Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, relax before heading out in the evening to explore the Shinjuku district. From the neon-lit lanes of Golden Gai to serene strolls through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, the city offers the perfect mix of chaos and calm. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Start your day exploring Tokyo’s top sights. Visit Zojo-ji Temple with its iconic view of Tokyo Tower, cross the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, and drive through the chic Omotesando boulevard. Continue to the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge before diving into Akihabara’s tech paradise. End your day at Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street for street snacks and souvenirs.

After breakfast, board the Shinkansen to Kyoto. On arrival, explore Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of orange torii gates and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. As evening sets in, wander through Gion’s narrow lantern-lit streets, lined with teahouses and geisha culture. Return to your hotel on your own.

Depart Kyoto and drive through the scenic Kiso Valley. Stop at the preserved post town of Tsumago and stroll the Edo-era streets along the Nakasendo trail. Later, visit the impressive Matsumoto Castle, nicknamed the “Crow Castle” for its black exterior and beautiful mountain backdrop. Continue to Nagano for overnight stay.

Visit the ancient Zenko-ji Temple, famous for its rituals and relics. Then, head to Jigokudani Monkey Park to watch snow monkeys relax in natural hot springs. Stop by Kusatsu to explore its steaming yubatake and traditional onsen culture before continuing to Ikaho. Check in at a ryokan-style hotel for an authentic Japanese stay experience.

Travel to Nikko for a sightseeing tour of the Toshogu Shrine, known for its lavish carvings and the Crying Dragon ceiling painting. Visit Taiyuinbyo, the mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu, and take a tranquil walk along Kanmangafuchi Abyss. In the evening, return to Tokyo for your onward flight.