Discover the Spirit of Japan: Tradition, Cuisine, & Timeless Culture

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Overview

Discover the Spirit of Japan: Tradition, Cuisine, & Timeless Culture
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka Japan
Sep 18 - 24, 2027
ExitUs Expeditions image
ExitUs Expeditions
$4,605

About this trip

**PLEASE NOTE: Due to current global unrest, this trip has been postponed to September 2027**

What if leaving the U.S. helped you find the perfect place for us?

At ExitUs Expeditions, we believe the world belongs to us — every coastline, market, mountain, and melody waiting to remind us that home can exist beyond the borders we’ve always known. Our curated journeys are more than vacations; they’re opportunities to explore, learn, and reimagine what life could look like elsewhere.

Whether you’re seeking reconnection, renewal, or just a reset, our premium international group tours blend culture, community, and curiosity in destinations that inspire.

Join a group of like-minded travelers ready to decompress, rediscover joy, and explore the possibility of life beyond America’s shores.

Sometimes the best way to find yourself… is to ExitUS!

This 8-day journey through Japan invites you to experience the harmonious balance between ancient traditions and futuristic innovation. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto and the lively flavors of Osaka, this curated adventure immerses you in the essence of Japanese culture—past, present, and future.


What's included

Accommodations

7 nights first class accommodations in 4.5+ star hotels with breakfast daily

Transportation

Transfers to/from airport

Meals

All lunches and dinners included

Comprehensive tours

Daily tours with a professional English-speaking tour guide. All entrance fees to exhibits included.

What's not included

Flights

Flight to/from Japan

Travel fees

Visa & Vaccination Fees

Hotel Incidentals

Incidental room charges in hotels/accommodations

Travel Insurance

We recommend purchasing coverage for your trip.

Welcome to Tokyo!

Welcome to Tokyo! image

Day 1

Welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s dazzling capital where cutting-edge modernity meets deep-rooted tradition. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind after your flight.

Hotel:
Set along the tranquil waterfront near Tokyo Bay, MESM Tokyo, Autograph Collection is a design-forward luxury hotel inspired by music and art. With sweeping views of the city skyline and easy access to Ginza, Roppongi, and central Tokyo, MESM offers a sophisticated retreat that blends contemporary creativity with refined comfort.

  • Morning/Afternoon: Arrivals & Check-in

  • Dinner: Welcome group dinner with local Black expats at Soul House Restaurant—a Black-owned soul-food haven blending American comfort with Japanese hospitality.

  • Night: Light stroll through Minato City or relax at the hotel, taking in skyline views as you prepare for an exciting week ahead.

Tokyo

Tokyo image

Day 2

Step into Tokyo’s dynamic rhythm as we explore landmark sites where imperial tradition meets digital-era wonder.

  • Morning: Guided visit to the Imperial Palace, and stroll through the peaceful East Gardens, an oasis in the heart of the capital.

  • Afternoon: Explore the interactive digital art universe of teamLab Planets, where light, water, and movement merge into a multisensory dreamscape.


  • Evening: Explore the vibrant Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection.

    • Dinner: Enjoy a meal in the Shibuya district at a trendy izakaya or ramen shop.

    • Nightlife: End the night at The Bellwood Bar for innovative cocktails.

    • Late Night Adventure: (optional) Go-Kart Racing through Tokyo’s neon streets for a thrilling close to the day.

Tokyo

Tokyo image

Day 3

A deep dive into Tokyo’s contrasting personalities—from timeless temples to eclectic fashion hubs.

  • Morning & Afternoon:

    • Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple: Wander Nakamise Street and visit Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, a portal to Edo-period charm.

    • Ueno Park & Tokyo National Museum: Explore art, history, and serene gardens that offer a break from urban energy.

    • Harajuku & Meiji Shrine: Shop quirky trends on Takeshita Street before stepping into the sacred forest that surrounds Meiji Shrine.

  • Evening: (optional) Spend the evening at the world-renowned Blue Note Tokyo, one of the city’s premier jazz venues. Savor a thoughtfully prepared dinner and drinks while enjoying live performances in an intimate setting - the perfect blend of world-class music, fine dining, and relaxed sophistication.

Tokyo to Kyoto

Tokyo to Kyoto image

Day 4

Ride the legendary Shinkansen bullet train—an icon of Japanese innovation known for its remarkable speed, near-silent operation, and comfort. Enjoy views of Mount Fuji (on a clear day!) as we travel south.

  • Morning: Breakfast at the Tokyo hotel

  • Afternoon: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto, gliding through Japan’s scenic countryside.

Hotel:

The Westin Miyako Kyoto - nestled at the base of Higashiyama and rich with 130+ years of heritage, this elegant hotel blends luxury with Kyoto tradition. With easy access to temples, gardens, museums, and charming neighborhoods, it’s an ideal home for exploring Japan’s ancient capital. The onsite restaurants present beautifully appointed aesthetics, locally inspired dishes and expertly crafted cocktails for your enjoyment. 

  • Evening: Arrive in Kyoto and embark on a guided evening walk through Gion, Kyoto’s famed geisha district, followed by dinner at a traditional restaurant.

Kyoto

Kyoto image

Day 5

Today is all about artistry, serenity, and timeless Japanese tradition. We will immerse ourselves in Kyoto’s elegance and tradition with a day devoted to nature, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry.

  • Morning: Wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering green stalks sway in a quiet, otherworldly rhythm — a breathtaking, must-see natural wonder.

  • Afternoon: Kimono Tea Ceremony at Maikoya Gion Kiyomizu—immerse yourself in elegance and learn the ritual of Japanese tea.

  • Evening: Hands-on Sushi-Making Class: Learn traditional techniques and enjoy your freshly crafted dinner.

Kyoto to Osaka

Kyoto to Osaka image

Day 6

Bid farewell to Kyoto as we drive in comfort via luxury motor coach to Japan’s vibrant culinary capital: Osaka.

Hotel:

The W Osaka is nestled in the fun-filled heart of Shinsaibashi, with the electric nightlife scenery of Dotonbori is just around the corner. W Osaka seamlessly blends Japan’s celebrated cultural heritage with bold contemporary designs in a rarified milieu of playful chic and boundless luxury.

  • Afternoon: Arrive and settle into the hotel. Free time to relax or explore Shinsaibashi Shopping Street

  • Evening: Dive into Osaka’s famed street food scene at Dotonbori Night Market—a colorful blend of glowing signs, historic traditions, and irresistible flavors.

Osaka

Osaka image

Day 7

Discover Osaka’s mix of feudal history, spiritual heritage, culinary delights, and sky-high views.

  • Morning: Explore Osaka Castle, a symbol of power, resilience, and the unification of Japan.

  • Afternoon: Visit Shitenno-ji Temple, Japan’s first officially established Buddhist temple. Then stroll through Kuromon Market, sampling fresh sushi, wagyu skewers, and Osaka favorites like takoyaki.

  • Evening: Take in sweeping panoramic city views from the floating garden observatory atop Umeda Sky Building—a breathtaking farewell vista.

  • Dinner: Farewell dinner celebrating your journey with refined Osaka cuisine.

Until next time!

Until next time! image

Day 8

Enjoy a peaceful final breakfast as we conclude our adventure. Reflect on eight unforgettable days—from Tokyo’s modern magic to Kyoto’s timeless grace and Osaka’s joyful energy. Transfer to Kansai International Airport for your return flight home—departing with new memories, deeper cultural appreciation, and perhaps a spark to return.

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1. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka Japan

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka Japan

About your organizer

ExitUs empowers Black Americans to explore the world through curated group travel that inspires cultural connection, personal growth, and insight into life abroad. Discover what’s possible—beyond borders, beyond limits.

ExitUs Expeditions exists to share places and options for us, outside of the US. We facilitate premium, international group tours with a focus on exploration, education, and curiosity about what’s possible.

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