Japan Pop Culture & Anime Self-Guided Journey

Explore Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto on a 10-day self-guided Japan journey filled with anime, arcades, street food, cultural landmarks, and hands-on experiences.

Explore Akihabara, Nakano Broadway, and Den Den Town, packed with anime, retro games, manga, and collectibles.

Three cities, endless discoveries: Shibuya’s scramble crossing, Osaka’s Dotonbori, and Kyoto’s historic temples.

Try a Japanese calligraphy session or join a samurai ninja experience for the whole family.

What’s Included

• Shinkansen tickets for return bullet train transfers between Tokyo and Kyoto.
• Airport pickup and drop-off.
• 9 breakfasts, served on days 2–10.
• Selected hotel stays in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto; premium upgrade available. Representative properties include The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku, GRIDS PREMIUM Hotel Osaka Namba, and CANDEO HOTELS Kyoto Karasuma Rokkaku. Actual accommodations may be these or equivalent quality, vetted by Untold Japan.
• Local guided tours in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
• Hands-on experiences such as calligraphy and ninja training.
• Entry to the attractions, cultural sites, and experiences included in the itinerary.
• Welcome package with your itinerary, tickets, and travel guide.

Not included

•  International flights to and from Japan.
•  Visa fees and Japan entry registration; requirements vary by nationality.
•  Travel insurance. Please arrange coverage for yourself and all companions before arriving in Japan.
•  Meals not listed in the itinerary, including lunches, dinners, and drinks unless specified.
•  Optional activities and tours not included in the itinerary.
• Transportation costs outside the included transfers.
• Hotel city taxes, if applicable.
•  Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, and shopping.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Tokyo: Arrival in Japan

Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport and make your way to your hotel in Tokyo. After checking in, enjoy a relaxed evening and explore at your own pace. Restaurant recommendations are available to help you choose a place for dinner.

Day 2 — Tokyo: Shibuya & calligraphy

Explore Shibuya with a local expert, including its famous scramble crossing and lively streets. Then enjoy a hands-on Japanese calligraphy experience and learn about this traditional art.

Day 3 — Tokyo: Akihabara & entertainment

Discover Akihabara, Tokyo’s center for anime, manga, gaming, and pop culture. Browse its shops and arcades, and enjoy time to explore the neighborhood at your own pace.

Day 4 — Osaka: Arrival & street food tour

Travel to Osaka and check in to your hotel. Later, explore Dotonbori with a local guide, sample Osaka’s street food, and see the area’s famous neon signs and Glico running man billboard.

Day 5 — Osaka: Free day

Enjoy a free day to explore Osaka at your own pace. Visit the places that interest you, browse local shops, or enjoy more of the city’s food and entertainment districts. Restaurant recommendations are available.

Day 6 — Kyoto: Arrival & northern Kyoto tour

Travel to Kyoto and explore the city’s northern highlights with a local guide. Visit Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and enjoy time to discover the surrounding historic sights.

Day 7 — Kyoto: Ninja experience or matcha stroll

Choose a hands-on ninja experience or enjoy a relaxed stroll focused on matcha and Kyoto’s local culture. Spend the rest of the day exploring at your own pace.

Day 8 — Tokyo: Return & Nakano tour

Return to Tokyo and explore Nakano Broadway, known for its anime collectibles, vintage manga, and retro games. Enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Day 9 — Tokyo: Free day

Enjoy a free day in Tokyo. Revisit a favorite neighborhood, shop for souvenirs, or explore more of the city at your own pace.

Day 10 — Departure

Check out and make your way to Narita or Haneda Airport for your departure. Thank you for traveling with Pathways. We hope to welcome you back to Japan soon.