Temples, Traditions & Natural Wonders:

Your Trip to Japan

Tokyo and kyoto

September 22 - October 7, 2026

Discover Japan through history, culture and epic landscapes

The first chapter of your journey takes you to Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis where modern innovation meets timeless tradition. Explore the bustling streets of Shibuya, marvel at the historic Meiji Shrine, and savor world-class cuisine in every corner of the city. From the neon-lit skyline of Shinjuku to the tranquil gardens of the Imperial Palace, Tokyo offers a dynamic blend of energy and serenity that sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

The final chapter of your journey takes you to Kyoto, where you can stroll through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, marvel at the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Gion’s historic streets. Along the way, you’ll experience the unique charm and energy of each destination.

This is more than a vacation—it’s an adventure that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

Niwa: Traditional Japanese Beauty present throughout the hotel

Hotel Niwa Tokyo blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern functionality, offering a serene retreat in the heart of the bustling Kanda-Misakicho area. Originally established as a ryokan in 1935, the hotel has evolved into a refined space that celebrates "beautiful modern Japanese style." Its interiors feature warm wood accents, paper shoji screens, and washi paper, creating a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city's hustle and bustle.

The hotel’s name, "Niwa," meaning garden in Japanese, reflects its harmonious connection to nature. Guests can enjoy four beautifully designed gardens that showcase the changing seasons, providing peaceful spaces to relax and unwind. With its thoughtful design, rich history, and commitment to sustainability, Hotel Niwa Tokyo offers an elevated experience that captures the essence of Japanese hospitality.

Hotel has a gym and laundry on site.

add-on Experiences: Tokyo

The Blossom: natural materials and tranquil design create a harmonious and calming atmosphere in every space.

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO is a refined hotel that blends modern comfort with traditional Japanese aesthetics and welcoming retreat in the heart of Kyoto. Designed to evoke the atmosphere of a classic machiya townhouse, the hotel greets guests with soothing scents, natural materials, and a calm ambiance that reflects the city’s seasonal beauty and cultural heritage. Its rooms feature elegant Japanese-inspired design and come in a variety of types to suit different travel styles, offering a relaxing space that feels like a “home away from home.”

The hotel also offers a range of thoughtful facilities to enhance the guest experience, including a spacious public bath with artistic décor inspired by cherry blossoms and bamboo forests, as well as a courtyard view. Guests can enjoy a restaurant that combines Kyoto and Kyushu culinary traditions, a cozy lounge created from restored historical materials, and a fitness room for relaxation and wellness. Conveniently located just a short walk from Gojo Station, it provides easy access to explore the city while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere

To protect the global environment, guest rooms will be cleaned every three nights for consecutive stays. On eco-cleaning days, only towels, in-house clothing, and guest room amenities will be replaced, and trash will be collected. For regular cleaning on an eco-cleaning day, please inform the front desk by 10:00 a.m.

Hotel has a gym and laundry on site.

Add-on Experiences: kyoto

Travel Details

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

Pricing details

package price

$TBD

*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE

• Ground Transportation listed above

  • Private Transfers

    • Tokyo airport to hotel

    • Kyoto hotel to Osaka

    • Osaka to Kyoto hotel

    • Hotel to Tokyo airport

• Hotels listed above

• Some meals

  • Breakfast daily at the hotel

• Tours listed in itinerary

• Most taxes and fees

  • Deposits, Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

    
    

NOT INCLUDED

• International Airfare

• Domestic Airfare

• Transportation (not listed in the itinerary above)

• Pre/Post stay hotel accommodations not listed above

• Add-on Tours

• ETIAS Visa (if applicable)

• Gratuities

• Food and beverages not included in the itinerary above

• 4% processing fee per payment (if paying w/debit or credit card)

• Optional Travel Insurance

  • World Wide Trip Protector “Essentials”

  • World Wide Trip Protector “Deluxe”

  • World Wide Trip Protector ‘Premium’

  • Other insurance options are available, if you have questions or want more coverage options, please let us know at time of booking.

REGISTRATION 

• A completed registration form is required to move forward with this booking.

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 90 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions, Planning Fees and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 60 days before departure. Cancellations more than 60 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.

F.A.Q.

What are some general tips for visiting japan?

• Never tip the waiter, this is considered rude in Japanese culture.

• When paying with cash money, place the money in the tray. Never hand the money directly.

• Don’t drink or eat in the trains.

• Avoid talking on the trains, if talking is nessacesary try to whisper

• Trash cans are very hard to find in Japan, so bring a back pack or purse with you to store your trash.

What currency is used in Japan?

The currency used in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). It’s commonly represented by the symbol ¥ and is used for all transactions, from shopping and dining to transportation and accommodations throughout the country.
American credit cards are widely accepted in Japan, especially in hotels, major department stores, chain restaurants, and transportation hubs. Cards from major networks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express generally work without issue.

However, Japan is still more cash-oriented than many other countries. Smaller shops, local restaurants, temples, and markets may only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to carry some Japanese Yen with you. ATMs at convenience stores like 7-Eleven are especially reliable for withdrawing cash using international cards.

What is the weather like in Japan in september/october?

The weather in Japan from late September to early October is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit. Temperatures typically range from about 18°C to 26°C (65°F to 79°F), with warm days and cooler, comfortable evenings—especially in cities like Kyoto and Tokyo. Humidity starts to drop compared to summer, so it feels much more comfortable for sightseeing.

What should I wear during walking tours?

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you will be walking a lot and some areas can include stairs.

How does the public transportation work?

Public transportation in Japan is known for being extremely efficient, clean, and punctual, making it one of the easiest ways to get around. The system is made up of extensive train and subway networks in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as high-speed intercity trains such as the Shinkansen, which connect major regions across the country. Trains and subways run frequently, routes are clearly marked (often in English), and stations are well-organized, so even first-time visitors can navigate with ease.

To pay for transportation, most travelers use rechargeable IC cards like Suica, which can be tapped at ticket gates and are also accepted at convenience stores and vending machines. Alternatively, you can buy single tickets at station machines. For longer trips, many visitors choose a rail pass for the Shinkansen. Overall, Japan’s public transport system is reliable and user-friendly—just be mindful of peak rush hours and follow local etiquette, such as keeping quiet on trains and lining up neatly on platforms.

CAN I PAY BY ZELLE?

Yes!

We started taking Zelle payments last month and we found this to be a fast and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go in to your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

• It is FREE (no processing fees)!

• It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

• Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.

• It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

CAN I PAY BY CHECK?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4% credit card processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

There are two ways to pay by check:

• Mail the check

• Deposit directly at a local branch