Chilled Japan: Urban Gems & Okinawa’s White Sand Beaches
This 10 day Japan itinerary balances time in Tokyo and the culture of Kyoto, with a slower-paced stay in Okinawa, combining city exploration with beach downtime and a more relaxed rhythm throughout.
Moving from Japan’s urban energy into its quieter landscapes and on to Okinawa’s tropical islands, the journey is designed to create contrast without constant motion. It’s suited to travellers who want to experience the country in a more considered way, with space to absorb each place rather than rushing between them.
The itinerary below is shown as an example route. Every journey we create is planned from scratch, and can be adapted — unless you like it exactly as it is.
- Day 1 - Overnight Flight
It's Japan time! Enjoy your overnight flight to Tokyo, the country's bustling capital.
- Day 2 - Tokyo
Welcome to the Land of the Rising Sun!
Your guide will be waiting on arrival to escort you to your hotel by public transit. Your rail passes are included for the entirety of your journey, so no need to faff around pre-departure.
- Day 3 - Tokyo
The day is yours to explore at your own leisure before heading out this evening on a Japanese nightlife and whiskey tour!
Head to memorable establishments in a lively district of Tokyo to sample some of the best whisky Japan has to offer, which is some of the best in the world.
- Day 4 - Kyoto
Now it's time to dial the clock back to ancient times as you head west to the ancient city of Kyoto by bullet train.
- Day 5 - Kyoto
Kyoto is Japan's cultural capital, so where better place to dig deeper into the customs and practices of this fascinating nation. You'll head out with your expert guide today to do just that!
- Day 6 - Okinawa
White sand beaches, in Japan? Yes really! And It's time to see them for yourself.
You'll have transfers either side of your flight to the paradise islands of Okinawa.
- Day 7 - Okinawa
Okinawa is picture-postcard-perfect! Somehow this tropical gem has remained off the radar for those seeking sun, sea and sand. Enjoy your first day at leisure here.
- Day 8 - Okinawa
Why not head into that oh-so-tempting azure ocean for a snorkel today? The area is home to an array of colourful tropical species.
- Day 9 - Okinawa
Away from the beach Okinawa is home to all sorts of fascinating sights related to WW2. You wouldn't know it by looking around now but this area was the setting for some of the wars most ferocious fighting.
If you prefer to experience this with a local guide, we can arrange that for you with ease.
- Day 10 - Okinawa
Your last day at leisure in Japan. Sad.
- Day 11 - Overnight Flight/Day Flight
Alas, it's time to head home. You'll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey
From £2890pp
Itinerary highlights
- A gentle introduction to Tokyo, with time to explore neighbourhoods, food and nightlife at your own pace
- Kyoto’s temples, traditions and quieter corners, explored without rushing between sights
- A laid-back island finale in Okinawa, combining white-sand beaches, snorkelling and island culture
- Designed as a flexible example, that can be shaped around your interests