Discover world-famous landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and historical cities such as Xi'an and Kyoto, and witness the vibrant cultures of East Asia, as you experience the best of Japan and China on a 16-day leisurely tour (easily adapted to be a 2-week or 3-week tour).
It covers iconic cities like Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai. With our carefully-designed itinerary and expert guides, this adventure tour is sure to create unforgettable memories and a comprehensive view of the Far East.
Come with us and have the journey of a lifetime!
Journey Route

This is an ideal tour for first-time visitors and families to both Japan and China. Sign up for your favorite part of the tour or simply treat the whole tour as inspiration, designing each element specially for you.
Highlights
Enter into the history of China and Japan by visiting UNESCO sites and discovering their hidden corners.


Taste the exotic savory flavors of East Asia.

Make your own terracotta warriors after finding out the secrets of the Terracotta Army.


Delight in the captivating panorama of Tokyo city from the heights of the renowned Sky Tree Tower.


Experience the breathtaking scenery of Hakone from multiple perspectives.

Listen to the Echoes of History while Cycling or Walking on the ancient Xi'an City Wall.


Dress in a traditional kimono to truly experience the authentic allure of Kyoto.


Take a leisurely stroll through Nara Park and interact with over 1,200 tame deer.


Indulge in ultimate relaxation and serenity at a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) with an onsen (hot spring bath) in Hakone.


Hear untold tales of the Bund and ascend Shanghai Tower for panoramic views.


Have your own guide and private vehicle during the guided day.

China Highlights, Asia Highlights, and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.


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Sharon has been very helpful since the…
Sharon has been very helpful since the beginning coordinating our itinerary in order to accommodate everything we want to see, it been great working with her More
May,
Jul 2023
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When I first book I was scared of what…
When I first book I was scared of what to expect, but oh my God! What an amazing experience this has been, from Sharon to all the guides Shawn and Mr. Ho, such amazing people! Their work is excellent More
Saul Velez,
Jul 2023
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Albee was very helpful and responsive…
Albee was very helpful and responsive in helping me make plans for their 10 day Japanese tour. More
Bhavini Patel,
Jul 2023
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Alisa was a perfect tour consultant
Alisa responded to my numerous questions with efficiency and accuracy. She was constantly suggesting options to make the trip more enjoyable More
Matha Goram,
Jul 2023
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I highly Recommend Asia Highlights
For our first guide Jun, he was amazing. Very accommodating. Kept in good communication & kept us on time for our activities. Reached out to me the night before to confirm meet times and locations. Our driver for this time was also so kind & driver was always on time. For our second Guide , Ho. He went above and beyond. He stayed in great communication. Stayed later with us on one of the days because we were worried about riding the train back alone but wanted to visit at the shopping center a littler longer, so he stayed with us and made sure we got off on the right stop! During our time with him he took pictures of us and sent them to us! He was very knowledgeable about every place we visited. He was kind and patient with our large group. He made our trip easy & memorable. The driver we had for this timeframe was also kind & always on time! We felt a bond with both guides given to us! If you want an easy going, stress free trip book with “Asia Highlights”!!! More
Jessalynn Flores,
Jul 2023
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Working to put together a custom trip…
Working to put together a custom trip with Alissa has been a great experience More
Marc,
Jul 2023
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Wonderful Service from Sharon!
Sharon at Asia Highlights has been a HUGE help in planning our trip to Japan later this year. From her initial contact to finalization of the plan, she has been very responsive, professional, patient, and knowledgeable. She was able to quickly propose an amazing itinerary and helped us customize it for our interests. She also made many great recommendations and gave us tips for the trip. I wasn’t familiar with Asia Highlights before I reached out, but after Sharon’s wonderful service, I have full confidence in them. I can’t wait for the trip and I hope it’s as awesome as Sharon’s service!!! More
Ali Tahir,
Jul 2023
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Wonderful trip
We had a wonderful time in Japan with guides Moni and Kazuko and with Jan in Singapore. Will always remember this trip! More
Happy Customer,
Jun 2023
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Just got to say
Just got to say, Monica was great in every way! So sweet and helpful with planning, itineraries, answering questions… would love to meet her in person! Thank you Monica! More
Teri,
Jun 2023
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Monica is fantastic
Monica is fantastic. She understood our needs, was very responsive and planned a perfect vacation for us. Highly recommend. More
Philip Sheldon,
Jun 2023
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Me and my son are traveling to Japan
Me and my son are traveling to Japan. Albee is magnificent. Extremely efficient, helpful, trustworthy. I am very happy she is helping us with my son's dreaming trip. More
Ana Letícia Urbanin,
Jun 2023
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A great way to plan a dream vacation
Due to circumstances, we had to delay our trip to Japan so this review is only about the process of designing the trip. Albee was always available, responsive to our goals, and competent. Based on how involved he was with our family trip, we know we will be back next year and resuming the plan he built. Really impressed with the quality and extent of resources we found through Albee and KimKim. More
KC,
May 2023
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Yeliz - Asia Highlights
Yeliz was extremely helpful and patient during our Japan trip planning and answered all my various questions. Really looking forward to our upcoming trip to Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto and Osaka! More
Cyndie,
May 2023
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Sharon’s was very patient and helpful…
Sharon’s was very patient and helpful when navigating me through the trip planning process. She helped me plan a very exciting and extravagant trip. More
Jonny Abad,
May 2023
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Wonderful 10 day trip in Japan!!!
Well planned trip by Alisa . Everything was well scheduled, guides and drivers were excellent!! The cars were extremely comfortable and the hotel she chose for us was beautiful!! Enjoyed planning with her she was very professional and always offered other choices. More
Lianne Stone,
May 2023
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11 days trip to Japan
I am planning my trip to Japan in November with Sharon's help and she has provided amazing customer service.She is very responsive and put together very quickly an incredible plan for 11 days in Japan. She provided recommendations and made changes based on our interests and budget. She also provided information about visa restrictions and the best way to get tickets for transportation services. Thanks so much Sharon, looking forward to this trip! More
LE,
May 2023
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Japan trip
Hi Cathy! I just want to thank you for making our Japan trip so much fun & memorable! We loved everything that you had scheduled for us! All the guides and drivers were great & punctual! We love Japan so much that we’re planning to go back next year to different part of Japan! We’ll definitely contact Asia Highlights for our trip again! Serene More
Serene Storslett,
May 2023
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Quick, easy and detailed service
Alisa was our advisor from Asia highlights and she prepared for us a wonderful 28 day trip to Japan, taking into consideration our needs and desire not to be traveling everyday and to have a mixture of slow and busy days. We've not yet taken our trip, but very much looking forward to it Thank you Alisa for the quick response and wonderful itinerary More
Lynette Whittle,
Apr 2023
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Japan Tour
Sharon Huang did an excellent job in planningour 15 day Cherry Blossom Japan tour. Shewas available during our trip to answer our questions and readily agreed to the itinerary changes.Everything was arranged - accommodation,breakfast, guide, car, entrance fees and train tickets. The guides were knowledgeable, and managed the tour very efficiently. The drivers were punctual and very patient. We visited must see places in and near Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima. We also got to experience Japanese Tea ceremony, Sushi making, Sake tasting, shopping etc.We highly recommend Asia Highlights for your travel needs. More
Madhu,
Apr 2023
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I organized a trip to Japan for my
I organized a trip to Japan for my parents who don’t speak English and Alisa was so amazing helping make an itinerary for them. They needed a Spanish guide and she coordinated everything so they wouldn’t have any trouble when they got there. She was so patient changing and adjusting the itinerary to their needs and wants, it’s been a total pleasure working with her and she always responds promptly to any question I have. I definitely recommend this company and if you can ask to work with Alisa. More
Luisa,
Apr 2023
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Itinerary in Detail
We're ready to refine and design your own dream journey based on your preferences! Our team will create a tailor-made Japan and China tour, just for you. The following is to give you an inspirational example of what is the core of Japan and China touring.
Welcome to Japan, a country that uniquely blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology. From the bustling streets of Tokyo and tranquil gardens of Kyoto, to flourishing Osaka and the breathtaking cherry blossom season, Japan offers something to delight every traveler.
Savor traditional sushi, ramen, wagyu beef, and hot springs (onsen) for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. With expert guides and a tailored itinerary, your Japan tour would be an unforgettable journey.
After your arrival at the airport, your private driver will welcome you with a name board and transfer you to your hotel. You'll have the rest of the day to relax and explore at your own pace.

Experience an unforgettable day exploring Tokyo with your own private guide:
- Begin your adventure with a visit to Meiji Shrine, where you can witness traditional Japanese weddings and pay your respects to Emperor Meiji.
- Take a stroll along picturesque Omotesando shopping street, famous for its broad tree-lined avenue and flagship stores of the world's top fashion brands.
- Visit iconic Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo's oldest and most famous Buddhist temples. Take in the striking architecture and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural hub.
- Riding the elevator up the magnificent Tokyo Skytree offers you a chance to marvel at the city's awe-inspiring panorama from its high-altitude observation decks.
- Finally, lose yourself in the energetic streets of Shibuya, home to the famous Shibuya Crossing and an abundance of shopping and entertainment options.

Embark on a memorable journey through Tokyo's most iconic attractions:
- Begin by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Tsukiji Fish Market, renowned for its vast array of seafood and bustling market life.
- Elevate your culinary skills with an authentic sushi-making experience, led by a local sushi chef. Savor the exquisite flavors of your handcrafted sushi during a delightful lunch, while basking in the satisfaction of your newfound talent.
- Unwind and appreciate the tranquil beauty of Hama-rikyu Gardens, one of Tokyo's most stunning traditional Japanese gardens.
- Immerse yourself in the pulse of Japan's dynamic pop culture at an anime-themed cafe! A delightful escapade into a colorful, animated universe brimming with vibrancy and excitement!

- Embark on an effortless journey to Hakone Yumoto station from Shinjuku station using your Hakone Freepass and Romancecar ticket. Enjoy a relaxing 90-minute direct journey to your destination.
- With the hassle of transportation taken care of, you have the rest of the day to unwind and explore at your own pace. Soak in the beauty of the surrounding nature or indulge in the area's famous hot springs for an ultimate relaxation experience.

Unleash the full potential of your Hakone Freepass and explore all that Hakone has to offer! Enjoy the freedom to get on and off various regional transport at your leisure, with the added benefit of discounted admission to multiple attractions in the region.
- The Hakone pass covers eight different forms of transportation, including trains, buses, cable cars, cableway, and sightseeing cruise, making it easy to see all the major sights of the region.
Alternatively, relax at your hotel and soak in the rejuvenating hot spring bath after a day of travel. Take advantage of the luxurious amenities and soak up the stunning scenery around you.

In the morning, make your way to Odawara station using your Hakone Freepass and use the train ticket to board the Shinkansen to Kyoto.
- On arrival at Kyoto station, make your own way to your hotel using your Shinkansen ticket.
- The rest of the day is free time.

On the seventh day, we would explore the former imperial capital of Kyoto with a knowledgeable local guide and have your own private vehicle to visit some of its World Heritage Sites:
- The day begins with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Originally built as a retirement villa for a shogun, this iconic temple was later converted into a Buddhist temple, making it one of Kyoto's most famous and revered landmarks.
- Don't miss the chance to explore Nijo Castle, an ornamental castle built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate as his Kyoto residence. Surrounded by stunning gardens, this castle's main building was completed in 1603 and is renowned for its unique architecture, decorated sliding doors, and 'chirping' nightingale floors.
- Take a leisurely stroll down Nishiki Market, a narrow, five-block long shopping street lined with over a hundred shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", this vibrant retail market specializes in all things related to food, including fresh seafood, knives, and cookware. There, you can indulge in seasonal delicacies and Kyoto specialties such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi.
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Choose from a wide array of traditional kimonos and let local experts style you to perfection. Seize this exceptional opportunity to navigate local terrains in genuine Japanese garb, stirring a deeply transformative travel experience.
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Take a serene stroll up to the "Pure Water" Temple, Kiyomizu, for a immersive cultural plunge. Soak in panoramic Kyoto vistas from its nail-free, 13-meter-high Main Hall veranda. Even amid restorations, this quintessential Kyoto marvel stands a breathtaking sight to behold.

Journey from your hotel to the historic city of Nara, under the guidance of a local expert. Nara, a cradle of heritage, was Japan's capital in the 8th century for 74 years. The testament to this glorious era lives on in the myriad of remaining temples and shrines, quietly narrating tales of the past.
- Experience the artistry of Matcha at Kyoto's centuries-old tea house in Uji. Revel in a day interspersed with tradition, history, and exquisite green tea flavors.
- Take a leisurely stroll through Nara Park, also known as Deer Park, where you can interact with over 1,200 tame deer that call the park home.
- Your journey continues to the grandeur of Todai-ji Temple, a marvel of wood that stands as the world's largest, cradling within it Japan's most magnificent Buddha.
- Quench your thirst at a traditional sake brewery, where you can sample different types of sake and discover your favorite.
- On the way back from Nara, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, which was featured in the movie Memoirs of a Geisha. This shrine is home to over 10,000 red torii gates that form a beautiful path up the mountain behind the temple.

Day 9 of our Japan adventure is your chance to relax or explore Osaka on your own before your private driver takes you to the airport for your flight to Beijing, the capital of China.
Upon arrival in Beijing, your local guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Ready for Beijing? Let's begin the day trip by visiting the symbol of new China — Tian'anmen Square.
- From there, proceed to the Forbidden City, the largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace, with a rich 500-year history. While most tour groups only visit the six halls on the central axis, your private guide will help you explore 12 carefully-selected places to fully experience the grandeur and beauty of this historic site.
- Indulge in a delicious lunch of Beijing Roast Duck, where you can watch the chef's exquisite cutting skills, savor the crispy duck skin, and learn the proper way to eat it.
- After lunch, spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the charming hutong alleyways, where you can soak up the local atmosphere and learn about the daily lives of Beijing residents.

- Start the day's touring at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for a good harvest. Arrive early to witness locals practicing martial arts and engaging in other unique activities that you may not see in your home country.
- In the afternoon, visit Mutianyu, the top-ranked section of the Great Wall on TripAdvisor due to its picturesque scenery and beautifully-restored architecture. Although it is about a 2½-hour drive from downtown Beijing, the stunning views and unforgettable experience make it well worth the journey.

- Marvel at the stunning imperial garden of the Summer Palace, originally the summer retreat of the imperial court and now a peaceful escape from the summer heat.
- Experience China's technological development as you race towards Xi'an on a high-speed train. This is a unique and exciting way to travel and witness the modern advancements of China's transportation system.

- Start your day by uncovering the mysteries of the underground army that dates back to 206 BC at the Terracotta Army Museum. Then, visit a local craftsman's cave dwelling to learn how to make a mini terracotta warrior.
- Return to the city area and visit Xi'an City Wall, which has been guarding the inner city for over 600 years. Walking along the wall provides a stunning view of the city, or you can rent a bike to cycle around the 14 km (9-mile) wall for a unique leisurely experience.

- Explore more of Xi'an's rich history at Small Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi'an Museum and Big Wild Goose Pagoda, then head to the Muslim Quarter to wander through the alleys and savor the local Muslim cuisine.
- In the afternoon, your guide will take you to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your Shanghai guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel, where you can rest and recharge for the next day's adventures.

- Experience more than just taking a few selfies on the Bund during our In-Depth Bund Culture Discovery Tour, where you will travel back in time to the golden age of the Bund in the 1920s.
- Explore some of the old Bund buildings and listen to their fascinating stories. Then, ascend the tallest building in China, Shanghai Tower, where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Shanghai and witness the vastness of the largest city in China.

On the last day of this itinerary, your private car, driver, and guide will be awaiting you at your hotel lobby, ensuring a timely arrival at the airport.
As you sit back and relax, they will provide check-in assistance and escort you to the correct security gate. Experience stress-free travel and a delightful journey home as they cater to your every need.

Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours
Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.
Hand-Picked Hotels
We have selected hotels with different styles and for different budgets. Let us know your preferences and we will help you find the right one.
![]() Hotel in Tokyo with great location
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![]() Kid-friendly hotel with hot spring in Hakone
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![]() Centrally located hotel in Kyoto
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![]() Hotel near the Hutongs in Beijing
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![]() Apartment with kitchen in Xi'an
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Our Service Includes:
- Private transport and personal English-speaking tour guide
- All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
- Hotel accommodation mentioned in the itinerary
- Breakfasts at hotels
- Governmental taxes
Tour code: ah-ea-1
Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day. Over 50% of our clients complete their bookings within 10 days of submitting their inquiry.
Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)
- Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
- Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
- Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
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At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.