10 Days - Tokyo, Odawara and Kyoto

About the destination: Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban areas in the world. Tokyo serves as Japan's financial hub and is a fusion of cutting-edge technology and tradition. Tokyo is vast and a well-structured modern city. The cityscape of Tokyo is composed of temples and shrines, serene nature reserves, historical structures, futuristic architecture, and neon lights. The heart of the city encompasses Chiyoda and Chuo. This region boasts the magnificent Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the renowned shopping district of Ginza, Tsukiji fish market, Akihabara electronics market, and the historic Tokyo Station. The peaceful neighborhood of Asakusa offers must-see attractions like the Sensoji Temple, the Nakamise-dōri shopping arcade, and the Golden Poo. Close by is the Ueno area, which includes the Ameyoko market. It's an ideal place to shop for traditional gifts and visit a significant Buddhist temple. Another key attraction of the city is the Meiji Shrine, situated in Shibuya. Tokyo is a distinctive city that offers something for everyone, bustling shopping districts, famous nightlife, historical landmarks, tranquil parks, and stunning scenery.

About the destination: Odawara is a city located southwest of Tokyo that is often overlooked by major tourist routes. This small town is mainly a transit point for travelers heading from Tokyo to the Hakone area to visit one of the most famous natural landscapes in the world, Mount Fuji. Most tourists take the Kodama Shinkansen from Tokyo and get off at Odawara, where they transfer to a bus to Hakone to reach the area near Mount Fuji and enjoy its unique views. Odawara may not have the famous temples or deeply rooted traditions found in Kyoto, but it offers a unique sense of tranquility and a way to experience everyday life in a Japanese city that is very different from the country’s major capitals. It is a small city that can be explored on foot. The streets, decorated with classic neon signs so common in Japan, have a certain charm. They are quiet, clean, and lined with shops and delicatessens that create a traditional atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. The most important attraction in Odawara is undoubtedly its beautiful medieval castle. This Edo-period Japanese castle is one of the country’s great landmarks and is among the more than twenty medieval castles that still exist in Japan. The park in front of Odawara Castle is also worth a visit. A beautiful red bridge reflected in the water creates an unforgettable scene. The train station is another highlight of the city, thanks to its distinctive structure and architectural style. Odawara is a city that can be visited quickly and easily. If you are planning to explore the Mount Fuji area via this route, set aside a few hours to discover this charming city and its enigmatic castle, where you will find a museum full of objects, weapons, and clothing from the samurai of the Edo period.

About the destination: Kyoto, for over a thousand years, served as the capital of Japan and is likely the best-preserved city in the country. It is a beautiful, vibrant city where modern life intersects with traditional Japan. Nestled among the mountains of Western Honshu, Kyoto is an ideal base for exploring the Kansai region. The city is rich in heritage sites and culture, offering a wide variety of restaurants and is relatively easy to navigate. The city's rich culture and heritage are evident in its architecture and customs. Kyoto is home to thousands of temples and shrines, including the stunning golden Kinkaku-ji, Ryoanji with its Zen garden, the popular Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo with its life-size statues of Kannon, and the more serene Tenryu-ji in Arashiyama. Also located in Arashiyama is the famous Bamboo Grove. A delightful activity in Kyoto is a walking tour of Gion, one of the main Geisha districts, where wooden buildings and lanterns create the perfect ambiance. Kyoto is one of the world's greatest historical cities, filled with temples, shrines, teahouses, and imperial residences. Steeped in culture and heritage, Kyoto is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.