Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Fly to Tokyo
Hop on your economy-plus flight from JFK to Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda Airport. Settle in with extra legroom and decent in-flight meals. Land, grab your bags, and a private transfer gets you to your 4-star hotel in Tokyo’s Shinjuku district. Crash or explore a nearby izakaya for a quick bite (not included).

Day 2: Tokyo’s Electric Vibe
Start with breakfast at the hotel—think miso soup, rice, and some Western options. Spend your day wandering Shibuya’s famous crossing and Harajuku’s quirky shops. Evening’s free; maybe hit up a ramen joint in Shinjuku for a cheap, tasty dinner.

Day 3: Sushi Workshop and Asakusa
Morning’s for your included sushi workshop—learn to roll nigiri and maki with a local chef, then eat your creations. Afternoon takes you to Asakusa for Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest. Stroll Nakamise Street for snacks and souvenirs. Back to the hotel for a chill night.

Day 4: Free Day in Tokyo
No set plans, so do you. Check out Akihabara for anime and tech, or relax in Ueno Park if it’s cherry blossom season. Your hotel’s concierge can point you to cool spots. Grab dinner at a local yakitori spot—grilled skewers are cheap and delish.

Day 5: Bullet Train to Kyoto
After breakfast, board your first bullet train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto—super fast, super smooth. Check into your 4-star hotel near Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district. Take an evening walk along the Kamo River or try a kaiseki dinner (not included) for a fancy but affordable treat.

Day 6: Kyoto’s Golden Temple
Breakfast, then head to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, with its shimmering reflection in the pond. Later, explore Nijo Castle’s creaky floors and epic history. Evening’s free—maybe wander Gion for a glimpse of a geisha.

Day 7: Cherry Blossom Hunt
Your included cherry blossom guide takes you to Kyoto’s best spots (season-dependent, March-April is peak). Think Maruyama Park or the Philosopher’s Path, lined with pink blooms. Afternoon’s yours—maybe visit a tea house or shop for crafts in Kyoto’s markets.

Day 8: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Morning trip to Arashiyama for the famous bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji Temple. It’s peaceful but can get busy, so your guide gets you there early. Afternoon’s free—try a rickshaw ride or hike to the monkey park (not included). Dinner at a local shabu-shabu spot is a must.

Day 9: Free Day in Kyoto
Explore at your pace. Fushimi Inari’s thousand red gates are iconic, or hit up Kiyomizu-dera for city views. Rent a kimono for fun photos if you’re feeling it. Your hotel’s staff can suggest hidden gems for dinner or drinks.

Day 10: Bullet Train Back to Tokyo
After breakfast, zip back to Tokyo on your second bullet train. Check into your Shinjuku hotel again. Spend the afternoon in Ginza for upscale shopping or chill at a cat café for something quirky. Evening’s open—try a conveyor belt sushi spot for a budget-friendly meal.

Day 11: Tsukiji Market and Odaiba
Morning visit to Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh sashimi and street food. Then head to Odaiba for futuristic vibes, a giant Gundam statue, and bay views. Evening’s free—maybe hit a rooftop bar in Shinjuku (drinks not included).

Day 12: Day Trip to Hakone
Take a guided day trip to Hakone (optional add-on or self-guided with train pass). See Mount Fuji (weather permitting), soak in an onsen hot spring, or cruise Lake Ashi. Back in Tokyo for your last night—go big with a karaoke session.

Day 13: Last Day in Tokyo
Final breakfast, then spend your morning in Meiji Shrine for some calm or Roppongi for art and vibes. Shop for last-minute souvenirs in Asakusa or Shinjuku. Your private transfer takes you to the airport for your evening flight.

Day 14: Fly Home
Board your economy-plus flight back to JFK, landing with a suitcase full of memories and probably some matcha candy.

Where You’re Staying

Tokyo: 4-star hotel in Shinjuku, like a modern spot with city views, comfy beds, and a killer location near nightlife and metro stops.
Kyoto: 4-star hotel near Gion, blending traditional Japanese vibes with modern perks like Wi-Fi and AC.
Both spots include daily breakfast (Japanese and Western options), 24-hour concierge, and clean, stylish rooms. Expect little touches like green tea in your room and bathrobes for that luxe feel.

What You Get

Economy-Plus Flights: Round-trip from JFK with extra legroom and better service.
4-Star Hotels: 7 nights in Tokyo, 6 in Kyoto, both centrally located.
Bullet Train Rides: Two trips (Tokyo-Kyoto, Kyoto-Tokyo) for that iconic Shinkansen experience.
Sushi Workshop: 2-hour class with a chef, including lunch.
Cherry Blossom Guide: Half-day tour to prime blossom spots (seasonal, substitutes available off-season).
Private Transfers: Airport pick-up and drop-off in Tokyo.
Daily Breakfast: Mix of Japanese and Western dishes to start your day right.

Why This Trip’s a Steal

Japan can feel pricey, but this package keeps it real. You’re getting upscale hotels, premium flights, and curated experiences like sushi-making and cherry blossom tours for way less than a fully luxe trip. Tokyo’s buzz and Kyoto’s calm balance each other out, and the bullet train rides add that bucket-list vibe. It’s value-driven luxury—fancy enough to feel special, affordable enough to book without sweating.

Japan Travel Tips

Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY). Cards are okay in cities, but cash rules for small shops and temples.
Weather: Pack layers—spring and fall are mild, but mornings can be cool. Umbrella’s handy for rain.
Safety: Japan’s super safe, but keep an eye on bags in busy spots like Shibuya.
Etiquette: Bow to say thanks, don’t eat while walking, and keep your voice low on trains.
Language: English signs are common in Tokyo and Kyoto, but learn “arigatou” (thanks) and “sumimasen” (excuse me) to win smiles.