Honshu Twin Ancient Capitals Tour – 6 Days of History, Hot Springs, and Gourmet Food（Chinese-speaking tour guide）

Gather at the appointed time and take an international flight to Narita Airport in Japan led by a professional leader.

★ [Sensoji Temple in Asakusa – See the World from Kaminarimon]
While the name “Sensoji Temple” may not sound familiar to everyone, the iconic Kaminarimon Gate with its massive red lantern is instantly recognizable. Built in 628 AD, it is Tokyo’s oldest temple and a must-visit destination for both tourists and those seeking blessings.

Before entering the temple grounds, visitors will pass through Nakamise Street, a famous shopping street lined with stalls selling unique souvenirs, traditional crafts, and the well-known snack ningyo-yaki (doll-shaped cakes). The temple also offers great views of the nearby Tokyo Skytree.

★ [Akihabara – Anime & Electronics Paradise]
Famed since the early 2000s as a mecca for anime and electronics, Akihabara has become one of the largest anime-themed shopping streets in Japan. It features numerous stores selling game software, anime character merchandise, cosplay goods, collectibles, toys, fortune-telling cards, and model kits.

Cosplayers and anime fans frequently gather here, making it a cultural hub for otaku. As for electronics, Akihabara is packed with hundreds of appliance shops, from large retailers to small specialty stores—earning it the nickname "Electric Town" and a reputation as a shopping paradise for tech lovers.

★ [Ginza – Tokyo’s Premier Luxury Shopping District]
Located in central Tokyo, Ginza is regarded as “the most expensive place in Asia” and a symbol of Japan’s commercial prosperity. The area is lined with luxury flagship stores, high-end boutiques, and massive department stores. Fashion, design, and international brands converge here, making it a paradise for shoppers.

Notable shopping spots include Tokyu Plaza Ginza, along with a variety of exclusive Japanese and global fashion houses.

★ [Hie Shrine – Hidden Gem of Blessings]
With a history of over 1,500 years, the Hie Shrine (Sanno Hie Jinja) is known for its prayers for family protection and friendship bonds. It features unique spiritual symbols rarely found in other shrines across Japan, offering visitors a distinctly memorable and sacred experience.

★ [Kawagoe – Kurazukuri Street & Edo Heritage]
Step back in time on Kurazukuri Street in Kawagoe, often referred to as “Little Edo.” This preserved district showcases Edo-period architecture and merchant culture, with a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of Japan’s past.

The area’s centerpiece is the Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower), Kawagoe’s iconic landmark, which still rings four times daily. Every October, the district hosts the Kawagoe Hikawa Festival, featuring parades of floats, traditional music, and portable shrines—bringing the old streets to life.

★ [Ashikaga Flower Park]
Located in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, Ashikaga Flower Park is a spectacular flower-themed park that showcases blooming flowers year-round. The park is divided into eight seasonal floral themes, each highlighting different types of blossoms throughout the year.

The park’s most iconic feature is its massive wisteria trellis covering over 1,000 square meters, as well as an 80-meter-long tunnel made from 350 white wisteria vines.
Every April and May, during the peak bloom season, the park hosts the “Great Wisteria Festival”, one of the region’s most celebrated flower-viewing events.

★ [Harunire Terrace – Yukawa Street Town in Karuizawa]
Harunire Terrace, known as “Yukawa Street Town,” is a charming open-air shopping and dining area built along the Yukawa River in Karuizawa, eastern Nagano Prefecture. The area was designed with the concept of "Karuizawa’s everyday life", using over 100 native harunire (spring elm) trees and connecting buildings via wooden decks that resemble a cozy pedestrian street.

This relaxing destination is ideal for enjoying gourmet cuisine, artisan crafts, and boutique shopping in Karuizawa’s mild climate.
During the rainy season, the popular “Umbrella Sky” installation features hundreds of colorful umbrellas suspended in the air, creating a whimsical and photogenic scene.

Nearby, the Picchio Wildlife Research Center offers eco-tours and flying squirrel observation programs, making it a fun and educational spot for nature lovers.

★ [Karuizawa Kogen Church (Plateau Church)]
Nestled deep in a forest, the Karuizawa Kogen Church features a striking triangular roof and minimalist wooden architecture, radiating warmth and serenity. Visitors are welcomed by a peaceful atmosphere the moment they enter.

Many people attend services here to experience the touching gospel music and meet the gentle-spirited pastors. The church is also a center for community and cultural activities, including gospel concerts and the popular “Summer Candle Night” held annually, which attracts not only local villa residents but also visitors from across Japan.

★ [Shiraito Falls]
Located in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, Shiraito Falls (meaning "White Thread Falls") is known for its delicate, thread-like cascades of water. Although only 3 meters high, the waterfall spans a wide 70 meters, with hundreds of fine streams of groundwater gracefully falling over a curving rock wall.

Because the waterfall is fed entirely by spring water, its flow remains steady throughout the year. From May to June, the contrast between the vibrant green forest and the bright white water creates a serene and refreshing landscape.

★ [Mount Fuji 5th Station (Gogōme)]
Mount Fuji is divided into ten stations from the base to the summit, with the 5th Station (Gogōme) situated halfway up the mountain. Higher stations include 6th through 10th, with the summit known as the 10th Station (Jōgōme).
As Japan’s most iconic peak, Mount Fuji offers a majestic beauty that changes depending on the distance and perspective.
From the 5th Station, visitors can look directly up at the summit, experiencing the awe-inspiring presence of the mountain.
On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Kawaguchi and the surrounding landscape. When clouds roll in, the scene transforms into a mysterious and ethereal sea of clouds.

★ [Arakurayama Sengen Park]
Famous for its stunning views of Mount Fuji framed with the iconic five-storied Chureito Pagoda, Arakurayama Sengen Park is one of the most popular scenic photo spots in Fujiyoshida City.
Climb the 397 stone steps to reach the Chureito Pagoda, and capture breathtaking photos of the pagoda and Mount Fuji together, especially during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage.
This location has become a favorite among foreign visitors and photography enthusiasts worldwide.

★ [Shimo-Yoshida Town – “Stairway to Mount Fuji”]
Nicknamed “Stairway Town”, this quiet neighborhood near Mount Fuji offers a picturesque street where the road seems to lead directly to the mountain.
The peaceful atmosphere and the view of Mount Fuji framed by local homes and utility poles create a scene straight out of a Japanese postcard.
One of the must-visit photo spots is the “Richuan Time Store”, a viral sensation on social media, perfect for capturing authentic Japanese street views with Mount Fuji in the background.

★ [Hana no Miyako Park / Fuji Sakura Park]
Located near Lake Yamanaka, at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, Hana no Miyako Park (Flower City Park) is a vast flower-themed park with 300,000 square meters of seasonal flower fields, greenhouses, and a blend of natural and artificial waterfalls.
Depending on the season, you can enjoy colorful displays of tulips in spring, sunflowers and cosmos in summer, and zinnias in autumn, all set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji.

★ [Pearl Culture Center]
Japan is renowned for its high-quality Akoya seawater pearls, and the Pearl Culture Center offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the cultivation and harvesting process of these famous gems.
Guests can admire the latest pearl jewelry trends, explore popular Japanese fashion jewelry brands, and even purchase unique pearl souvenirs as a memory of their trip.

★ [Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)]
Famed for its exterior covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic historical landmarks. Originally completed in 1397 during the Muromachi period, it was designated a National Treasure of Japan and recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994.

The official name of the temple is Rokuon-ji. The architecture harmoniously blends three distinct styles from different periods:

The first floor, known as Hōsui-in, reflects the Heian-period Fujiwara style

The second floor, Chō-on-dō, represents the samurai-style of the Kamakura period

The third floor, Kukkyo-chō, features a Chinese Tang Dynasty-inspired Zen style

At the top sits a phoenix ornament, symbolizing auspiciousness. The elegant fusion of architectural styles is one reason why Kinkaku-ji is so highly revered.

★ [Arashiyama, Kyoto]
Located in western Kyoto, Arashiyama is a beloved scenic area, famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views along the Togetsukyo Bridge, explore the bamboo grove, or take a peaceful stroll through nature-rich landscapes.

★ [Comprehensive Duty-Free Shop]
A well-stocked Japanese duty-free store offering a wide range of popular Japanese health supplements, cosmetics, snacks, and souvenirs. Guests are free to shop for authentic, locally made items and unique Japanese gifts.

★ [Osaka Castle Park]
Osaka Castle Park is built around the historic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city. The grounds include a moat, lush gardens, pavilions, and seasonal floral displays. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom magnificently, while autumn brings vibrant foliage—making the park a year-round scenic spot.

★ [Shinsaibashi & Dotonbori]
Shinsaibashi is Osaka’s premier shopping district, home to boutique shops, fashion retailers, and souvenir stores. The area features a covered arcade shopping street, bustling from morning till night.

Nearby Dotonbori, a lively entertainment and food district along the Dotonbori Canal, is filled with neon signs and local specialties. Must-try foods include:

Takoyaki (octopus balls)

Okonomiyaki (Osaka-style savory pancake)

Specialty ramen
This area is a must-visit for food lovers and night owls alike.

Take a bus to the airport, take a passenger plane and fly back to the airport to break up the group, ending this pleasant and unforgettable trip to Honshu, Japan. Wish you a pleasant journey!