6 Days Tokyo Family Trip with Kamakura, Mt. Fuji & Anime Fun

Konnichiwa(こんにちは)！Welcome to Tokyo, the capital city of Japan! Upon your arrival at the airport in Tokyo, your driver (not English-speaking) will meet you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel. You can have a good rest in your hotel and get ready to explore Tokyo with your guide the next day.

Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the world’s most exciting cities. It’s where ancient traditions meet modern life — think historic temples, neon-lit skyscrapers, sushi bars, and high-speed trains all in one place. Here, you can experience world-class dining, high-tech shopping, serene gardens, and a unique culture that blends centuries-old customs with cutting-edge trends.

Arrival Ideas:

1. Japan has two commonly used international airports. Narita International Airport, located 63.5 km from the center of Tokyo, is the primary international air hub for Tokyo, where flights from China to Tokyo usually land. Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) is situated 17 km from the center of Tokyo and mainly serves domestic flights within Japan and some international flights, including flights to South Korea and other East Asian regions.

2. Cities that have Direct Flights to Tokyo include, but are not limited to: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Taipei, Kaohsiung, Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bali, Manila, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and more. Please note that flight information is subject to changes based on time and market demand. Contact us to obtain the latest flight information and prices.

First to visit Meiji Jingu Shrine (Meiji Shrine), a Shinto Shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) and Empress Shoken (1849-1914), who played a crucial role in modernizing Japan while excelled in writing Waka (traditional Japanese poems of 31 syllables in the pattern 5-7-5-7-7). Meiji Shrine is a popular venue for traditional weddings, where you will have the opportunity to witness a Japanese Wedding Procession, experiencing the charm of Japanese traditional culture.

Founded in 1915 and finished in 1920, Meiji Shrine features a unique architectural style, with the main hall adopting traditional Japanese Shinto Shrine architecture infused with modern elements in its details. You will walk through Japan's Largest Wooden Torii Gate, standing in its natural wooden hue and weighing up to 13 tons. The Torii gate serves as the Symbol of Shinto Shrines, marking the transition from the worldly to the sacred. Walking through this gateway symbolizes stepping into the divine realm, evoking a profound sense of mystery and reverence.

As a peaceful oasis in the city, Meiji Jingu Shrine is the largest green space in the center of Tokyo. In the land-scarce city of Tokyo, the vast area occupied by the Meiji Shrine is truly astonishing! The sacred forest (170,000 trees) surrounding the main shrine buildings of Meiji Jingu is man-made, planted by 110,000 volunteers in honor of their beloved Emperor Meiji (established Shinto as the state religion) and Empress Shoken. The forest serves also to separate the sacred from the profane world.

Take a stroll along the paths and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty. Then, you will notice the impressive Sake Barrel Wall along the South Approach, which features offerings from sake breweries and believers across Japan, including barrels of sake and Western liquor, reflecting Emperor Meiji's fondness for Western culture. At the main hall of Meiji Shrine, you can witness locals washing their hands and rinsing their mouths at Purification Font before worship as a sign of respect. You can offer a 5-yen coin (symbolizing a connection) like locals and pray for blessings. In the eyes of the Japanese, Meiji Shrine is considered to have such boundless capabilities, from naming ceremonies for newborns, to coming-of-age ceremonies, graduation ceremonies, seek marriage partners, pray for world peace, family well-being, safe travels, good health, warding off calamity, etc. In addition to immersing yourself in Japanese Shinto traditions and architecture, revel in the enchanting surroundings filled with lush trees, serene ponds, graceful bridges, and stone pathways that epitomize the essence of traditional Japanese garden art. You should visit here to enjoy the vibrant bloom of cherry blossoms in spring, the verdant beauty of summer, the fiery hues of autumn leaves, and the serene snowy landscapes of winter.

Tips for Visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine:

1. Wear modest clothing: Respect the sacred nature of the shrine by dressing appropriately.

2. Be mindful of noise levels: Maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere.

3. Inner Garden (Optional; self-pay; once Imperial Property), and Meiji Jingu Museum (Optional; self-pay; items used by the imperial couple).

Then, move to visit Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world, accommodating approximately 3,000 people per minute. As one of Tokyo's iconic locations, Shibuya attracts tourists and photographers from around the globe who come to observe and capture its essence. Numerous movies, TV shows, commercials, and music videos are filmed at this location, such as "Detective Chinatown 3" and "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift." Additionally, the well-known story of Hachiko the Loyal Dog originates here. Hachiko, an Akita dog, continued to visit the station daily to await his deceased owner's return. The Hachiko Statue located in front of Shibuya Station stands as a significant cultural landmark in the Shibuya area, attracting numerous visitors annually who come to pay their respects and honor his loyalty.

Next, head to a foodie paradise! The Tsukiji Outer Market is a lively and bustling place where you can find all kinds of delicious food and fresh ingredients. While the famous fish auction has moved, the Outer Market is still an incredible place to eat and explore.The market is full of stalls selling everything from fresh seafood skewers and grilled tamagoyaki (a sweet, rolled omelet) to sweet rice cakes and savory snacks.

After exploring the market, it's time to become sushi chefs! You’ll join a fun, hands-on cooking class where a friendly instructor will guide you in the art of making your own sushi. You'll learn the techniques for preparing the rice and rolling the perfect sushi, and best of all, you get to eat your delicious creations!

After breakfast, head to Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple), a must-visit for anyone traveling to Tokyo. Here, you can experience the heart of old Tokyo and its vibrant atmosphere. You can take photos that frame Senso-ji Temple and the Tokyo Skytree;(Japan's Tallest Tower; 634 meters) together.

Senso-ji Temple was built in 628 AD and has a history of over 1300 years, making it one of Japan's oldest temples. It not only witnesses Japan's historical changes but also carries a rich Buddhist culture. The architectural style of Senso-ji Temple blends Japanese traditional culture and art, with rich colors and exquisite carvings. The main buildings include the main gate (Kaminarimon; a landmark of Tokyo), the bell tower, the Five-story Pagoda (a landmark of Tokyo), and the main hall, all reflecting ancient Japanese architectural style and religious beliefs.

Kaminarimon is the iconic structure of Senso-ji Temple, towering at 11.7 meters high and 21.7 meters wide, truly spectacular. Giant Red Lanterns hang in front of the gate, with the words "Kaminarimon" prominently displayed. Kaminarimon is not only a symbol of Senso-ji Temple but also one of Tokyo's most famous landmarks. You may have seen the work of Utagawa Hiroshige, one of the "Three Greats of Ukiyo-e," in his piece "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo: Asakusa Kaminarimon," depicting a snowy scene of the Kaminarimon gate, celebrated for its delicate portrayal and profound imagery, becoming a masterpiece of Ukiyo-e art. The area is bustling, and crowded with people coming to pray and seek blessings for health, peace, and happiness. Around Senso-ji Temple, you can taste various Japanese cuisines, purchase unique souvenirs, and participate in various celebratory activities.

After soaking in the history of Asakusa, it's time for a different kind of marvel. The Tokyo Skytree is one of the world's tallest towers and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The high-speed elevators are an experience in themselves, and the views from the observation decks are spectacular. On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji!

This is the highlight for any Pokémon fan! Located on the 4th floor of the Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex at the base of the tower, the Pokémon Center Skytree Town is a must-visit. You can find exclusive merchandise and take photos with your favorite Pokémon characters.

Then it’s off to Akihabara, Tokyo’s mecca for anime, gaming, and electronics. Wander through themed stores filled with figurines, gadgets, and rare collectibles - an otaku paradise!

End the day at the Tokyo Samurai & Ninja Museum, where you’ll dive into the world of Japan’s legendary warriors. Try on samurai armor, hold real swords (safely!), and discover the skills of stealthy ninjas through interactive exhibits.

Today, it will be a full-day round trip (300 km) to admire the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from Arakurayama Sengen Park and Lake Yamanakako.

Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan. It's a famous volcano with a perfectly symmetrical cone shape. Visiting Mount Fuji is essential for any traveler in Japan. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Fuji (3,776m) stands as an iconic symbol of Japan, a cultural and spiritual landmark (recognized as a holy mountain in Shintoism), and a natural marvel. When picturing Mount Fuji, its distinctive perfect cone shape and snow-capped peak likely come to mind. Among the most renowned depictions is Katsushika Hokusai's 'Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji'. Hokusai, one of the "Three Greats of Ukiyo-e", is best known for his masterpiece "The Great Wave off Kanagawa," which can be seen on the 1,000 Japanese yen bill.

Begin your journey at the renowned Arakurayama Sengen Park, where you can admire the magnificent view of a five-story pagoda set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Hike about 15-20 minutes up to Arakurayama Sengen Shrine, dedicated to the mountain god. The shrine is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy the gorgeous scenery and capture iconic photos at the famous Red Fuji Observation Deck.

Then, head to Lake Yamanaka. Lake Yamanaka is the largest of the five Fuji Five Lakes and offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Lake Yamanaka is a paradise for water sports. Activities like boating, fishing, water skiing, and windsurfing are all available on the lake, providing plenty of opportunities for adventure on the water.

For an exciting and unique experience, hop aboard the KABA Bus. The KABA Bus is not just a regular bus, but also a ship. This amphibious vehicle, named after the "hippo" - a king of animals that lives both on land and in the water- offers a thrilling ride. You can drive along the scenic roads around Lake Yamanaka, and then transition into the water for an exhilarating boat ride. As the bus moves from land to water, you'll enjoy a scenic cruise across the lake, with panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.

In certain seasons, visitors have the unique opportunity to feed the swans, a delightful activity for both adults and children.

After that, head back to Tokyo overnight and have a good rest.

Notes:

1. It is a long day trip, and there will be a surcharge if the tour exceeds 8 hours (For Guide, driver & vehicle).
2. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy a good view of Mt. Fuji. However, if the weather is not favorable, Mt. Fuji may not be visible.
3. The best time to view Mount Fuji is generally from December to February, when skies are clearer and the peak is snow-capped. And also, April to May (for blooming cherry blossoms) and October to November (for the autumn foliage) are good times.
4. Early mornings often provide the best visibility before clouds obscure the view. Different locations around Mount Fuji offer varying perspectives, with some spots known for their clear views.

Today, you're taking a scenic drive from Tokyo to Kamakura (about 2 hours), a beautiful seaside town rich in history and famous for its temples and coastline. Kamakura is also a popular anime pilgrimage spot featured in Slam Dunk, TARI TARI, and Our Little Sister.

Begin your visit at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine. Founded by the first shogun, Minamoto no Yoritomo, this shrine is a powerful symbol of the city's samurai past. Stroll along the grand approach lined with cherry trees and red torii gates, leading you to the majestic main hall set atop a broad staircase. The shrine grounds also feature a tranquil pond, beautiful bridges, and seasonal blooms, making it a peaceful place to experience Japan’s samurai-era heritage and Shinto traditions.

Next, head to the majestic Kamakura Daibutsu (Great Buddha), a huge bronze statue of Amida Buddha. Standing over 13 meters tall, it's a truly impressive sight that everyone will appreciate.

Just a few minutes' walk, you'll find the Hasedera Temple, a beautiful hillside temple known for its stunning views over Kamakura and the sea. Hasedera is also known as the "Flower Temple”. It offers seasonal beauty year-round - cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas in early summer, autumn foliage, and wintersweet in winter. The temple houses an 11-headed statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, one of the largest wooden Buddhist statues in Japan. Wander through peaceful gardens filled with seasonal flowers, explore a small cave filled with Buddhist carvings, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Don't forget to stop at the observation deck for panoramic coastal views.

From nearby Hase Station, hop aboard the nostalgic Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) - a charming old-fashioned train that winds between local homes and hugs the coastline, with views that feel straight out of a Ghibli film. One of its most iconic stops is Kamakura Koko-mae Station, instantly recognizable to fans of the classic anime Slam Dunk. The oceanfront railway crossing here is featured in the show’s opening scene. Be sure to stop and snap a photo at this legendary spot, with the sea as your backdrop.

After the tour, return to Tokyo with cultural memories and anime snapshots in your camera roll.

It is time to end your unforgettable 6-Day Tokyo Family Trip. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.

Trip Extension: If you'd like to extend your trip in Japan, consider exploring other notable regions like Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Central Japan, or Hokkaido and Okinawa, etc. Feel free to contact us to customize your extended itinerary.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your tour of Asia. We are dedicated to enhancing your travel experiences and look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure in Asia. Have a safe journey home!