JAPAN

DAY 1 | TOKYO

Konichiwa !!! Welcome to Tokyo, capital of Japan and probably the most modern city in the world. You are sleepy after many hours of traveling I know, but let’s wake up to catch a private bus to our hotel in Tokyo. After checking in and having dinner, you are free to explore one of the city’s most hectic neighborhoods, Shinjuku.
Accommodation: Hotel 4****

DAY 2 | TOKYO

Good Morning! How about Jet lag ?! Let’s drink two coffees and start our adventure in Japan! After breakfast we continue our journey with our guide in a private bus. Today we are going to explore Tokyo, passing by Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace, Asakus district, among other places. We end the day in one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, Shibuya. Feel the hectic pace as you try to cross the world famous crosswalks. Those who want, can end the night in one of the famous Karaokes dressed in their favorite character. Did you know that Karaoke was born here in 1971?
Accommodation: Hotel 4****

DAY 3 | TOKYO

Free day to explore Tokyo on your own or Extra Activities.
Accommodation: Hotel 4****

DAY 4 | TOKYO – NIKKO – TOKYO

Today we will visit the city of Nikko. We take a private bus along one of Japan’s most romantic roads to the entrance of Nikko National Park. It’s famous for its sanctuaries, of which we will visit three. At the end of the afternoon we return to the hotel in Tokyo and finish the day’s tour.
Accommodation: Hotel 4****

DAY 5 | TOKYO – HAKONE

Today we pack and travel by private bus and with our guide to the beautiful Hakone National Park where we will sleep. An escape from Tokyo’s breakneck pace with a view of Mount Fuji. Take the opportunity to relax and enjoy some traditional Japanese moments in the middle of nature. We will take one of the largest cable cars in the world to the top of Mount Owakudani, hovering over the sulfurous fumes emanating from the warm waters of the rivers in this volcanic area. Up there we will try the famous boiled egg that the legend says to give us another seven years of life. That is, another 7 years to travel with LEVA-ME eheh.

We will take a boat trip through the majestic Lake Ashinoko, formed by a volcanic eruption over 3000 years ago! Be aware, Mount Fuji can appear at any time, but keep in mind that he is a little bit shy and only likes to appear on beautiful days to be seen in all his splendor. Tonight, we will enjoy a rest in our traditional Japanese ryokan. With sliding doors, rice paper screens, you will feel that you were teleported to the Edo period! Finally, treat yourself dipping in the relaxing mineral waters of an onsen hot spring, one of the most famous cultural practices in the country, before enjoying a traditional Japanese dinner.
Accommodation: Ryokan / Japanese Room

DAY 6 | HAKONE – KYOTO

After breakfast we take a private bus to catch the Shinkasen Bullet Train, the famous bullet train that will take us to the charming city of Kyoto. Upon arrival in Kyoto we will be assisted by our guide who will accompany us to the hotel. Rest of the day is free.
Accommodation: Hotel 4 ****

DAY 7 | KYOTO

This morning we will discover the charm and tranquility of the city of Kyoto and its surroundings. Among temples and gardens, we also visit the famous bamboo forest. In the end we proceed to the hotel. Rest of the day is free to explore the city.
Accommodation: Hotel 4****

DAY 8 | KYOTO

Free day to explore the city or extra activity.
Accommodation: Hotel 4****

DAY 9 | KYOTO – NARA

Today we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nara with our guide. For 74 years in the 8th century, Nara was Japan’s First Capital. With great prosperity it became the face of Japanese culture and politics and boosted a large number of changes in society at the time. Therefore, Nara is home to some of the country’s most impressive and ancient landmarks. We return to the hotel at the end of the day. Free night.
Accommodation: Hotel 4****

DAY 10 | NARA – KOYASAN

After checking out of our hotel, we take the bus with our guide to Koyasan. Koyasan is a city founded in 816 by Father Kobo Daishi with the intention of being a place where it’s possible to learn Buddhist teachings and pray for divine protection. Surrounded by steep mountain peaks and deep forest, here we will enter a spiritual world. Discover 1200 years of culture and history while spending the night in a Temple where we can experience the day to day life in a temple . Try the  vegetarian Buddhist meal, shojin ryori, prepared by the monks themselves.
Accommodation: Temple / Japanese Room without private WC.

DAY 11 | KOYASAN – OSAKA

We will wake up before sunrise to experience a spiritual ritual in the morning with the songs of the monks, the smoke of incense and Tibetan cups. Then we have breakfast and head to Japan’s second largest city, Osaka. Osaka is known for being bright, festive and bold! A more fun version of Tokyo, with a food-obsessed culture. We start with a visit to the beautiful Osaka Castle. After arriving at the hotel, you have your day and night free to explore the city.
Accommodation: Hotel 4****

DAY 12 | OSAKA – FINAL DESTINATION

After breakfast, we will transfer to Osaka airport to return. End of the trip. Those who want, can enjoy and extend the trip a few more days and visit Hiroshima, which is very close to Osaka.

• The company of Leva-me Tour Leader.
• Accommodation in 3 * / 4 * hotels, Temple, Ryokan – selected or similar (11 Nights)
• Local tourist guide (English speaker as mentioned in the itinerary).
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary: 11 Breakfasts / 4 Lunches / 3 Dinners.
• Tours and transfers as mentioned in the itinerary: we visited 21 places of interest.
• Fees, entrance tickets and tourist permits during the guided time.
• boat and cable car ride.
• Bullet train ticket – Shinkasen.
• Transfer from Tokyo airport (only one within the program dates).
• Transfer to Osaka airport (only one within the program dates).

• International flight.
• Meals that are not mentioned in the itinerary (+ – € 15 per meal) / drinks with meals.
• Personal extras, and everything not mentioned in the program.
• Extra activities.
• Personal travel insurance

In order to make the trip more accessible to everyone, certain activities are optional and not included in the tour price. These activities are pre-arranged and those who want to join any of them can book them from the moment they join the tour. On the free days, each person is free to do what they want: Staying on the beach or in the hotel pool, exploring the city’s markets, visiting temples or joining these Extra Activities. You can also book these activities in the moment, but you are subject to the availability and prices at the time. (All extra activity prices are subject to change without notice).

• Extra Activity: Kyoto Highlights: Please ask us the price, depends of how many people join the activity.

You can make a reservation for the trip at the end of this page. A 30% deposit is required at the time of booking, and the final payment is due 70 days before the tour. Please review our Cancellation Policy.

The 30% deposit is non-refundable in case of cancellation. Payment is made on our website via Multibanco (Portuguese ATM system) using the entity and reference, which is valid for 24 hours.

International travelers can pay via bank transfer.

Invoices will be sent with the details that client share when doing the reservation.

Is this trip for me?

This trip is for people who like to have fun and make friends, regardless of their age. We are sure that if you come with a relaxed mindset, you’ll have an unforgettable couple of weeks. Although Japan is a very organised country and we stay in quality hotels, It is important to understand that this is an adventure trip, and as such, there is always an element of the unexpected. A lot can happen, from coming across different animals to getting a weak or no internet connection, the air conditioning breaking, the shower having lower water pressure and temperature than the one in your house, the food not being as good as your mother’s, etc… But it’s good that things are different, otherwise, it wouldn’t be worth it to leave home. Also, good weather is unfortunately not a guarantee, as sometimes it can rain, the sea can get rough, and it is important that you know that there may be changes in the itinerary. What kind of a trip would it be without some adventure?!

If you invite a friend to come on the tour, it is essential that you pass them this information. We just don’t want a cranky traveler who has been “dragged” by friends, whose mood can affect the group’s fun and relaxed atmosphere.

What kind of rooms are we staying in?

We will be staying in double rooms. If you are traveling alone, you will be paired with another traveler of the same gender. In some rare cases, you may need to share a triple room. If you are traveling as a couple, you’ll get your own private room.

What if I want a single room?

If you want a single room, it may be possible if all hotels have availability, you will have to pay an extra fee. Contact us for more information.

When should I book my flight?

You should book your flight only after making the payment of the tour and receiving the confirmation that your reservation with LEVA-ME is completed. Once we send you a confirmation email, you can book your flight. (This will only happen after a minimum number of participants has signed up, when we contact the travelers signed up to tell them that they can buy the international flight from that moment on).

Can I go alone?

Of course, most of our travelers sign up individually. It is a trip in which you will meet new people and make friends.

Who will I share my journey with?

You’ll spend the trip with the LEVA-ME tour leader. You’ll also spend this trip with other travelers who have many things in common with you, like the passion for traveling, for adventure, for discovery … and who are looking for new emotions and unforgettable moments on this trip. We normally have travelers from anywhere between 20 to 70 years old and we can assure you that the atmosphere is very fun and that you’ll end the trip with a new group of friends.

Is the group of travelers flying together?

No, there are travelers coming from different parts of the world, so the group meeting point will be at the airport/hotel in Tokyo.

How do we meet in Tokyo?

LEVA-ME will gather the data and flight schedules of all the travelers. There is only one transfer from the airport in Bangkok to the hotel. If you arrive at the same time or before the majority of the people in the group, you can wait at the airport and we will all take the airport transfer together. If you arrive later in Tokyo, you’ll have to go on your own to the hotel, either by taxi or subway.

I do not have a flight for the day when the tour starts. Can I go earlier?

Of course, but you will be on your own until we meet in the hotel.

Is there an age requirement?

You must be 18 years old or older. If you are 16 or 17, you can come but must be accompanied by a parent. The price is the same as an adult.

Do I need to take any specific equipment?

No, no special equipment is necessary, just bring comfortable clothes and shoes.

Will I have any time for myself?

Of course! We hate tours that book every minute of your day. Our tour will be busy, but there will also be plenty of time to go exploring on your own!

Why are some lunches not included?

We like to give you some time to be alone and seize every second of the day your own way. With that in mind, most lunches are free, so you can go wherever you want.

What about visas?

Portuguese citizens don’t need Visa to visit Japan, if you have other nationality please ask us.

Health and Vaccines?

We recommend travelers to consult with a clinic of Travel Medicine or talk to your doctor 4-8 weeks before departure.

Dangers?

Japan is one of the safest countries for travelers. People are very friendly and kind in general. Regardless, please take care as there are pickpockets everywhere, be it in Portugal or Japan.

How many spots can I book at one time for the tour?

As many as you want. The maximum number of travelers is 30.

Can I save spots?

No, spots are only effectively reserved after payment.

Any doubts?

If you still have doubts, please visit our Frequent Asked Questions page or send us an e-mail: info@leva-me.com