A Luxury Family Vacation to Japan
Trip highlights
- Step aboard Japan's famous Bullet Trains
- Canoe on Lake Kawaguchi by Mount Fuji
- Stay in a traditional hot spring ryokan
- Visit the Imperial Palace
- Visit Japan's largest Pokémon mega-store
- Enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Private transfers
- Private tours and experiences
- Full support from your travel designer and concierge
- Help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
- Days 1–5 Tokyo
- Days 5–6 Hakone
- Days 6–8 Mount Fuji
- Days 8–10 Hiroshima
- Days 10–14 Kyoto
- Days 1–5 Tokyo
- Days 5–6 Hakone
- Days 6–8 Mount Fuji
- Days 8–10 Hiroshima
- Days 10–14 Kyoto
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Four nights exploring Tokyo
Your trip begins in the incredible metropolis of Tokyo, a city with an infectious energy like no other. You’ll be based for four nights, allowing for plenty of time to explore. You’ll take private tours of landmarks such as the Imperial Palace, bustling Shibuya and the historic Asakusa District, with fabulous family experiences such as a traditional taiko drumming lesson and a visit to the country’s largest Pokémon mega-store.
Where you could stay
Tokyo
Highlights
- 84 rooms and suites
- Restaurant and bar
- Pool and fitness centre
- Spa
- Visit the Senso-ji Temple
Overview
Embracing the minimalism of traditional Japanese architecture, Aman is a stylish, bespoke hotel that will offer you an array of amenities and easy accessibility to the city’s sights.
Each of the 84 guest rooms and suites have unique layouts with uncompromising city views and every contemporary convenience. You’ll find the design inspiration evident throughout the hotel, from traditional Japanese residential structures to the use of classical materials such as camphor wood, washi paper and stone alongside modern luxurious fabrics. The hotel also offers an exquisite dining experience in their elegant mediterranean fine dining restaurant on the 33rd floor with views of the Imperial Palace Gardens and Mount Fuji.
Take a dip in the infinity pool on the 34th floor, high above the hustle and bustle of the city or head to the spa to relax after a long day of exploring the city. You’ll also enjoy Ginza, the upmarket shopping area just a pleasant 15 minute walk away.
→ Find out moreTokyo
Overview
After a smooth and speedy trip on the world-famous bullet train, you’ll find yourself at the elegant Shangri-La Tokyo, a haven of refinement set amid the relentlessly buzz of Tokyo, just opposite Tokyo Station.
With some of the largest rooms in the capital, the Shangri-La is a calming, sleek retreat from the 24-hour energy of Tokyo. There’s one lobby bar and two restaurants, including the Japanese restaurant Nadaman, located on the level 29, where you can sample Chef Takehiro Yoshida’s sautéed eggplant wrapped in thin slices of Wagyu beef.
The palette of dark wood, chocolate brown and burnt orange is complimented by low, amber lighting, exuding a sense of elegance and sophistication. Many of the spacious rooms have views across Tokyo, a scene that is best viewed at night.
That’s ideal, because you’ll be spending your days out and about exploring the endless fascinations of Tokyo. Within walking distance of the hotel, you’ll find the Ginza shopping district and the Imperial Palace in its park surroundings, and a 20-minute train ride will deliver you to the Buddhist Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple.
→ Find out moreTokyo
Overview
Relax in contemporary luxury at the Mandarin Oriental. Located in the heart of Tokyo, this hotel offers serenity above a ever-growing metropolis.
When you arrive in the 38th floor lobby, you’ll find yourself stunned by the dramatic views over the city’s skyline. The 157 guest rooms and 21 suites are heavily inspired by the Japanese aesthetic, blending futuristic luxury with a typical Japanese understanding of sense of space, aesthetically capturing the country’s rich culture within the modern luxury that Mandarin Oriental are renowned for.
Step out of your hotel and you’ll be in the middle of Tokyo’s metropolis, just a five minute walk from Ginza shopping district. After a busy day enjoying the buzz of Tokyo, relax in the Sense Tea Room or head to the Mandarin Bar and enjoy a signature cocktail by their award-winning chief bartender whilst listening to live jazz.
→ Find out moreTokyo
Overview
Built of amber Namibian granite, The Peninsula Tokyo is a construction of sheer opulence occupying a covetable position opposite the Imperial palace and Hibiya Park in the business district of Marunouchi. The hotels offers you commanding city views, elegant design, luxurious comfort, sophisticated facilities and extraordinary dining.
With 314 spacious guest rooms, this hotel is as large as it is luxurious. Designed by the renowned interior designer Yukio Hashimoto, the hotel intertwines rich earth tones, woods, stone and lacquers with modern design and functionality to create a stunning luxurious living environment. Customise your space with the use of the bedside panels allowing you to tweak the room’s ambience from the comfort of your bed.
Taste the delicious European Cuisine at Peter with stunning views from the hotel’s 24th floor over the Imperial Palace, or visit the Hei Fung Terrace for a sophisticated Cantonese dining experience. Make sure you don’t miss out on the sensational Japanese cuisine at Kyoto Tsuruya where you can watch the skilled chefs prepare Japan’s oldest and most loved culinary delights.
→ Find out moreA private city tour for your family
Hamarikyu garden and river cruise excursion
Take a stroll in the former imperial gardens now known as the Hamarikyu Garden then enjoy a shared cruise on the Suminda River to Asakusa.
Asakusa visit to see Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Dori Street
Visit one of Tokyo’s oldest and best-preserved districts, stopping at the Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Walk along the Nakamise Dori merchant street, which dates back to the Edo period, lined with small shops.
Taiko drumming performance and lesson
Japanese drums used to be ceremonial instruments and communication tools. Nowadays, drumming is used for entertaiment. The powerful strokes are balanced and enhanced with a beautiful posture. Watch a performance and then learn how to play the drums Taiko yourself.
Akihabara District
Explore Akihabara, an area famous for its shops catering to manga and anime fans, and the center of Japan’s otaku (diehard fan) culture. Stroll around to see an amazing array of figurines, costumes and merchandise, as well as vast arcades, ‘maid’ cafes and electronics shops.
Teamlab Planets Museum
Enter this immersive digital art museum barefoot and connect to the enormous artworks where the medium might be water, a garden, flowers or glowing lights in dark grottos.
Exploring Shibuya
Shibuya is a shopping and eating district popular with a lot of young Tokyoites, famous for its bright neon lights and five-way crossing.
Make it mine
Ancient history
Automobile
Animation
Animation
Visit the Imperial Palace
Visit the Imperial Palace, the celebrated residence of Japan’s imperial family. Located on the former site of the Edo Castle, the huge park area is surrounded by moats and massive stone walls.
Toyota Mega Web
Experience all things automobile at Toyota’s self-proclaimed car theme park. Here you can see over 60 current models, including some that have never been displayed anywhere else. As well as learning all about the technical side of things there is a kids’ section where they can learn all about traffic rules and take a turn behind the wheel.
Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo
Visit the appropriately named Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo in Ikebukuro. This is Japan’s largest Pokémon store. Come to browse its masses of exclusive merchandise, candy, clothing and mountains of cute plushies.
A full day of adventures in Hakone
Enjoy a night at your relaxing ryokan near the famous spa town of Hakone. Explore the surrounding area of forests and waterways before a naturally invigorating hot spring bathing experience.
Where you could stay
Hakone
Highlights
- 39 rooms and suites
- Pool and Jacuzzi
- In-room dining
- Hot springs
- Hiking
Overview
Immerse yourself into the ancient Japanese way of life at Gora Kadan, the former retreat of the Imperial Family. Situated in the heart of Hakone National Park, this traditional Japanese ryokan – meaning inn – echoes the country’s longstanding cultural emphasis on beauty and purity of form, and was designed to exist in harmony with the nearby mountain range.
With just 39 guest rooms and suites, this luxury ryokan provides a retreat from the often-hectic pace of city life through the use of Japanese Zen minimalism. You’ll find sliding walls made of rice paper, fragrant floral incense and modern luxury commodities. This calming retreat is located in an area known for its hot springs from which mineral rich water flows into the open-air baths.
During your stay enjoy the traditional Kaiseki cuisine, consisting of a variety of small dishes, which will be served in your room for complete tranquility.
→ Find out moreMake it mine
On the water
In open air
Hakone Lake Ashi cruise
Take a cruise on Lake Ashi which formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone. While enjoying the magnificent views of Mount Fuji in the background, look out for the reflections of the surrounding mountains in the lake surface.
Hakone Open Air Museum
Visit the unique Hakone Open Air Museum where you can enjoy the balance of nature and art through a variety of sculptures in perfect harmony with the natural surroundings. Venture to the indoor galleries to see works from Rodin, Bourdelle, Miro and one of the largest collections of British sculptor Henry Moore.
Two nights overlooking spectacular Mount Fuji
Enjoy the pristine natural surroundings from the comfort of the magnificent Hoshinoya Fuji. Nestled within a pristine red pine forest overlooking Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji, this is a beautiful glamping hideaway. Volcanic activity 10,000 years ago created a landscape of craters and ice caves, and the surrounding area is ripe for exploring. Canoe on the lake, go horse riding through the forest or take a lesson in stargazing and marvel at the night sky.
Where you could stay
Mount Fuji
Highlights
- 40 cabins
- Grill restaurant
- Canoeing
- Horse riding
- Stargazing
- Forest tours
Overview
Nestled within a pristine red pine forest overlooking Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji is Hoshinoya Fuji, a beautiful glamping hideaway that allows guests to enjoy the tranquility of their natural surroundings.
On arrival at reception guests are presented with a camping kit containing binoculars, headlamp, map and blanket before being driven up to the main site. Here you will find the cabins, restaurant and the Cloud Terrace – a network of walkways and wooden platforms seemingly suspended in the air.
You’ll find 40 cubic concrete blocks nestled with the forest, minimalist in design but featuring everything you could possibly need. Large windows look out over the beautiful landscape and every cabin features a balcony where you can light a fire. Lighting in the cabins is soft, and around the site only the pathways are illuminated so as not to detract from the natural environment.
The main restaurant features a grill station in the middle where chefs cook up succulent steaks which are served with a seasoning rack. Alternatively, head up to the top of the Cloud Terrace and have a go at cooking in the wood-fired oven. For complete privacy, you can choose to dine in the comfort of your cabin.
Volcanic activity 10,000 years ago created a landscape of craters and ice caves, and the surrounding area is ripe for exploring. Canoe on the lake, go horse riding through the forest or take a lesson in stargazing and marvel at the night sky.
→ Find out moreImmerse yourself in nature
Aokigahara forest and lava cave tour
Visit the mysterious Aokigahara Forest, an untouched natural forest known for its dense woods and lava trails, with a nature guide. Folk tales and legends tell of ghosts and goblins haunting the forest. You will also join a guided cave tour and head into one of the lava caves, exploring the underground wonders that await.
Two nights in Hiroshima
Your travel designer will recommend the best things to see and do during your time in Hiroshima and Miyajima Island, to help you make your most of your time here. Great efforts that were taken to rebuild this large and prosperous city with the careful reconstruction of important historical monuments such as Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden.
Where you could stay
Hiroshima and Miyajima Island
Overview
Conveniently located in the centre of Hiroshima city, whilst staying at the Sheraton find yourself in the middle of the energy and excitement of this city, surrounded by its historic sites and rich culture.
The 238 spacious guest rooms are designed with comfort in mind, decorated with contemporary furnishings, perfect to unwind after a busy day exploring Japan’s largest island. During your stay experience the culinary delights of the Sheraton, from the international food at Bridges to the contemporary Japanese cuisine at Miyabi-Tei, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Hiroshima is overloaded with historical sites and impressive architecture. During your stay makes sure to visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is just a short ferry ride away. For stunning city views visit Hiroshima Castle. After a busy day exploring why not treat yourself to a massage at the Shine Spa or enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail in the Miyabi-Tei Bar.
→ Find out moreMake it mine
History
Adventure
Visit Hiroshima and Miyajima
Visit the skeletal remains of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall at The Peace Memorial Park. Both the park and museum are moving, educational and humbling, featuring sculptures and memorials from all over the world. Visit Hiroshima Castle before moving onto the Miyajima or “shrine” Island to see the dramatic gate of the Itsukushima shrine and red O-Torii gate which appears to float on water.
Mount Misen hike
Take the ropeway and enjoy a short hike to the top of Mount Misen, standing 530m high, where fantastic views of the mountain of sea await. There are also some light treks around the summit that can be enjoyed.
Four nights of exclusive experiences in Kyoto
Spend your time in Kyoto admiring the impressive imperial beauty of the city, evident in the abundance of prewar buildings such as grand palaces, traditional “machiya” townhouses and ornate shrines. See kimono-clad geisha on their way to engagements and stroll in the celebrated Ryoan-ji rock garden. Make sure you visit the magnificent wooden Kiyomizu-dera and the Golden and Silver Pavilion Temples.
Where you could stay
Kyoto
Highlights
- 134 guest rooms and suites
- Spa
- Four dining outlets
- Indoor pool
- Niko castle
- Imperial Palace
- Retail and entertainment in downtown Kyoto
Overview
With 134 guest rooms, the Ritz-Carlton is Kyoto’s first urban luxury resort. Sitting on the banks Kamogawa river, the hotel boasts astounding views of the famous Higashiyama mountains.
The hotel has four restaurants and you can take your pick from traditional Japanese dishes, Italian cuisine or go for the seafood private dining option. Enjoy brunch or sweet treats by the French patisserie Pierre Hermé Paris next to a cascading waterfall in the terrace, or retire to the library where a range of Japanese art and architecture books are available for you to thumb through at your leisure.
Situated in close proximity to Kyoto’s popular downtown areas, retail and entertainment districts, this hotel will allow you to enjoy the rich culture of Japan’s ancient capital within modern luxury. Explore the Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle or the atmospheric dining of Pontocho, all of which will be on your doorstep.
→ Find out moreKyoto
Overview
Located in the heart of Kyoto, the stylish Hyatt Regency offers spacious rooms and excellent hospitality. This hotel is perfect for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere whilst exploring the rich culture of Kyoto.
Each of the elegant 189 guest rooms and suites are decorated in light neutral tones combining the aesthetics that Japan is famed for with the style and comfort of western living. During your stay marvel in the culinary excellence offered by the Hyatt, from authentic Italian cuisine to a French grill to flavourful Japanese dishes, there is something for everyone at this luxury hotel.
Explore the wonders of Kyoto, with countless temples and shrines and other historical structures, marvel in this city’s fascinating culture. After a busy day of exploring why not visit the hotel’s spa for a relaxing massage or visit The Touzan Bar to taste the hotel’s boutique sake collection.
→ Find out moreKyoto
Overview
Traditional Japanese aesthetics can be found throughout the luxury Four Seasons in the centre of historic Kyoto. Lanterns brighten interiors filled with artisanal furnishing and sleek hardwood floors while fusuma screens and urushi lacquerware create an engaging cultural experience.
The guest rooms enjoy balconies with incredible views overlooking the fascinating cityscape, Shakusuien Pond Garden or the distant Higashiyama Mountains. Upon imperial purple carpets, a custom Four Seasons bed waits after freshening up in a private rain shower oasis. The suites contain spacious living areas with sofas, coffee tables and marble-topped desks, natural light streaming in through floor-to-ceiling windows. Special touches such as shoji paper lamps and tatami-inspired wall panels contributes to a rich and contemporary residence.
Savouring views of the beautiful 12th-century Myoho-in Temple, the Presidential Suite consists of Asa-no-ha hexagonal patterns and an approach to artisanal décor that authentically and intimately captures the essence of Japan.
The Four Seasons has two restaurants. Brasserie boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a simple yet delicious menu. Locally-sourced ingredients combined with modern cooking techniques contribute to seasonal dishes throughout the day and into the evening.
Sushi Wakon operates under the skilled hand of Michelin-starred Chef Rei Masuda, preparing a fine-dining extravaganza at the 200-year-old, 10-seat Hinoki counter.
Drink tea while relaxing beside the 800-year-old pond garden, taking in the true essence and mystery of the Land of the Rising Sun. Additionally, the Spa is a haven of healing, restoring your mind and body to a state of blissful serenity.
→ Find out moreExploring Kyoto and beyond
A private tour of Nara
Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, lies just outside Kyoto. Look out for the hundreds of deer that roam the park before marvelling at Kasuga Taisha Shrine, its magnificent interior and numerous bronze lanterns. Marvel at the massive Todaiji temple, reputedly the largest wooden building in the world and one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples. In Naramachi, visit the fascinating Naramachi Koshi-no-ie, an old residence open to the public and wander past small boutiques, shops, cafes and restaurants along the narrow lanes.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-Ji Temple
Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a famous Zen Buddhist temple that is the head temple of the Tenryu-ji branch of Rinzai Zen sect and part of World Cultural Heritage monuments. You’ll also explore the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the most beautiful in Japan.
Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji Temples tour
Visit the Kinkaku-ji ‘Golden Pavilion’ temple. Built in 1397 to serve as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, Kinkaku-ji served as the inspiration for the Ginkaku-ji the Silver Pavilion which was built by the Shogun’s grandson. Then, continue to the serene Ryoan-ji Temple which is celebrated for its rock garden, comprised of nothing but clay walls, raked sand and 15 rocks.
The tradition of taking tea
Experience a tea ceremony, one of Japan’s most famous traditional cultural practices, that encompasses not only the making of tea, but also tea-room architecture, the appreciation of tea utensils and bowls, and Zen Buddhism. The tea master will teach you how to prepare and present matcha, powdered green tea.
Make it mine
By night
By day
The movies
The theatre
The movies
The theatre
Exclusive evening with Geisha in Kyoto
This evening, you’ll have an once-in-a-life-time opportunity to experience an evening in the company of Geisha at an exclusive Kyoto restaurant and tea house. Two Geisha, accompanied by a musician, will perform traditional dances and songs with their skilfully-honed art in entertainment, playing games and making conversation (your guide will act as a translator).
Gion Geisha district tour
Visit the Geisha district of Gion which is famed for its beautifully preserved traditional architecture. During Gion’s golden age in the first half of the 19th century, more than 3000 Geikos (young Geisha) worked in some 700 teahouses. You can keep your eyes open for Geisha on their way to an assignment. This is also a great opportunity for shopping in this craft-rich district.
Toei Kyoto Studio Park
Toei Uzumasa Kyoto Studio Park was known in the 1960s as the “Hollywood of Japan”. Toei, one of Japan’s leading film companies opens its sets to the public at Eiga Mura (Film Village) and the result is a theme park complete with samurai and ninja shows, geisha, arcades and souvenir shops. Many movies were shot here and it is still a working studio. You can turn into a samurai or a princess with real disguises, including wigs and makeup.
Dressing up as a Samurai or Geisha
Indulge yourself in a little make believe and become a part of old Japan. Try on the elegant makeup and intricately patterned kimono of the Geisha or Samurai wear.
Why book with Jacada
Pesonalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
I can't recommend Jacada enough! If you want a curated and hassle free trip, do it with them! They planned all details and gave us plenty of info leading up to the trip that we really didn't need to do much ourselves. We decided to use them for a culture/food trip through Japan and it was beyond exceptional! The best!