You're invited to spend the hidden season with us in Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan. For ease of air travel, this fall adventure begins and ends in Tokyo. From the buzzing streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, this 9-day Japan itinerary is designed to immerse you in the heart of Japanese culture. Imagine walking across the iconic Shibuya cross in Tokyo and through tunnels of red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. You'll taste sushi you've crafted with your own hands, sing the night away at karaoke, and wander lantern-lit geisha streets of Gion at twilight.

This trip isn't just sightseeing, it's about experiencing Japan through food, tradition, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. With handpicked boutique hotels, expertly guided tours, authentic local activities, and free time for your own explorations. On our Fall in Tokyo + Kyoto Tour, you'll enjoy moments of pure cultural magic, including a traditional tea ceremony with a maiko, or apprentice geisha. You'll see iconic landmarks and hidden gems in style and comfort.

Members of the Fat Girls Traveling Network receive a $250 member discount.

This tour was created with plus-size travelers in mind. However, travelers of all sizes and gender identities are invited.  It's ideal for those who enjoy walking tours, leisurely hikes, and a balance between bustling city life and calm environments. 

The Tour is perfect for the traveler who isn't afraid to get out of their comfort zone and embrace learning about different cultures. A traveler who enjoys food, loves art and nature, and is looking forward to a mix of fun group experiences and free time.

Activity Level: 3 out of 5

Everyone has different mobility levels, and we want to be as transparent about accessibility as possible. We will spend most days on walking tours and activities that require standing. Travelers will have free time most evenings and a free day mid-trip. We also want to remind you that all of the activities are voluntary.

Please consult with a Fat Girls Traveling Tours representative before booking flights for this tour.

When advised, please book your flights to and from Narita International Airport (NRT).

After you sign up for the tour you'll be added to the Fall in Tokyo + Kyoto Tour Group in our private Network. This is where you can connect with other travelers on your tour and ask questions.

Itinerary subject to adjustment at the discretion of the Fat Girls Traveling Team due to weather or other extenuating circumstances.

Prices are based on current exchange rates. Yen to USD was 147.7 : 1 on August 25, 2025 and will be used as the base point. As a small business, we will absorb fluctuations up to 8%, but in the unusual case of a significant shift, we’ll split the difference with the traveler fairly. ​

If you cancel within 200 days of the tour, 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable.

If you cancel within 150 days of the tour, 75% of the total trip cost is non-refundable. 

If you cancel 120 days or less before the tour, 100% of the total trip cost is non-refundable. 

If we cancel the tour, you will receive a full refund. 

In the event of illness, injury, or other extenuating circumstances affecting the trip, the departure will be rescheduled. If you can not attend during the new dates, your deposit will be transferred to another trip. 

By signing up for this trip, you acknowledge that Fat Girls Traveling LLC and Annette Richmond will not be held responsible for any issues that may arise from injury or illness.

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Tokyo, Japan. Your Fall in Tokyo + Kyoto Tour begins the moment you land. After a smooth transfer to your modern and comfortable hotel, take time to refresh before getting your first taste of Japan.

Please join the group for the Welcome Meeting at 6 PM in the lobby of the hotel.
Followed by the group Welcome Dinner, which will be a perfect “Yokoso!” (Welcome!) to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Included Activities:

• Airport Transfer

• Welcome Meeting at 6 PM

• Welcome Dinner

Included Meals:

Dinner

Hotel: Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Tamachi

Today you will visit two of Tokyo's most popular neighborhoods and enjoy Tokyo's contrasts. Beginning at the Meiji Shrine, a serene, forested path leads to one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines. See the impressive sake barrels, wooden prayer plaques, and enjoy the soft ring of temple bells for a peaceful start to the day.

Then, get a burst of Japan's pop culture by exploring Takeshita Street, the main street of Harajuku. Shop for all things quirky and kawaii, and indulge in the sweet treats of candied strawberries and giant rainbow cotton candy. Before walking to nearby Yoyogi Park for a break. Feel free to grab snacks along the way for an impromptu picnic.

We'll end the afternoon at Japan's most famous pedestrian scramble and explore the buzzing neighborhood of Shibuya on foot. Dog lovers will enjoy visiting the famous statue of Hachiko, experiencing the legendary scramble crossing, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic part of Tokyo.

After the Shibuya walking tour, travelers can enjoy some free time.

Included Activities:

• Metro Day Pass

• Meiji Jingu Shrine

• Harajuku Street

• Yoyogi Park (You can grab snacks at 7-11 and we can have a fall picnic)

• Shibuya Walking Tour

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotel: Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Tamachi

Day three begins with a visit to the Asakusa area, one of the older and more traditional parts of Tokyo, often called the temple district. Here you’ll stop by Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple, founded almost 1400 years ago. Browse the many interesting stalls filled with sweet cakes, crafts, and souvenirs that line the shopping street of Nakamise dori. For lunch, enjoy a casual street food walking tour through the historic Asakusa district, sampling local favorites like freshly made ningyo-yaki, melon pan, and more.

Next, you'll get a 360-degree, birds-eye view from the Tokyo Skytree. One of the world’s tallest open-air observation decks delivers sweeping views over the city. You can get a peek at Mt. Fuji in the distance on clear days.

Enjoy the rest of the day on your own before meeting the group at 7 PM for a Karaoke Experience. We'll embrace Japan’s beloved pastime in a private booth where you can sing, sip cocktails, and laugh with your new travel friends.

Included Activities:

• Asakusa Sensoji Temple

• Tokyo Skytree Tower

• Karaoke Experience

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotel: Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Tamachi

After a few jam-packed days and a night out, you deserve a break. Today you'll have a metro pass and a plethora of opportunities to explore Tokyo. Stroll the upscale streets of Ginza, take a day trip to Yokohama’s waterfront, or visit one of the city's viral cafés. If you're looking for a bit of self-care, consider treating yourself to a sleep-in, a soothing massage, booking a spa treatment to recharge, or enjoying Tokyo's incredible shopping.

Included Activities:

• Metro Day Pass

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotel: Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Tamachi

Your food-filled day will begin at Tokyo's largest wholesale fish market, Tsukiji Outer Market. Explore the iconic market with your local guide while trying sizzling yakitori skewers, grilled scallops, or rolled omelets hot off the pan.

Next, you'll step into the kitchen for a hands-on Sushi-Making Class with a master chef. Learn the art of perfecting nigiri, roll your own maki, and discover the subtle etiquette of sushi dining. By the end, you’ll be eating your culinary creations like a local.

After the sushi-making class, travelers can enjoy a free afternoon in the city. Giving you time to visit a museum, learn about Manga, or enjoy a kabuki play.

Included Activities:

• Metro Day Pass

• Tsukiji Outer Market Tour

• Sushi Making Class & Lunch

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Sushi Lunch

Hotel: Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Tamachi

Day six starts with an early train to Kyoto. You'll board the sleek Shinkansen bullet train and watch as the urban cityscapegives way to scenic mountains and rice paddies. Once you arrive at Kyoto Station, you'll enjoy a traditional Obanzai lunch, which is a set meal featuring seasonal simmered dishes and small side bowls typical of Kyoto home cooking.

Your first Kyoto experience is Shibori, the centuries-old art of tie-dye. In a traditional workshop, you’ll twist, bind, and dye fabric, creating intricate patterns and a personal souvenir.

As the sun dips low, you'll stroll through Gion, the geisha district, with our local guide. You'll learn about the history of geisha culture as you explore lantern-lit teahouses and exclusive restaurants. If you’re lucky, you may glimpse a geiko (geisha) or maiko (apprentice geishas) with their elaborate dress and makeup on their way out to events.

Included Activities:

• Early Morning Train Travel to Kyoto

• ​Shibori Art Class

• Evening Gion Walk

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Lunch

Hotel: Park Hotel Kyoto

Today you'll get an early start at Fushimi Inari Shrine, walking under the photogenic red torii gates that wind into the forested hills. Next, you'll visit Arashiyama, famous for its towering bamboo grove, historic temples, and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.

Later in the afternoon, you'll have a Traditional Tea Ceremony with a maiko, or apprentice geisha. It is rare to have the opportunity to meet a real maiko, and even more exceptional to speak with her directly. This intimate encounter offers a unique chance to connect with Kyoto’s elegant performing arts and rich cultural heritage.

Included Activities:

• Fushimi Inari Shrine

• Arashiyam walk

• Traditional Tea Experience

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotel: Park Hotel Kyoto

After breakfast you'll take the bullet train back to Tokyo and enjoy your final afternoon in the city. During your free time you can shop for souvenirs or schedule a reflexology foot massage to pamper your feet after days of walking. In the evening, the group will gather one last time for a Farewell Dinner, celebrating the memories you’ve made and friendships you’ve formed.

Included Activities:

• Take the Bullet Train to Tokyo

• Metro Day Pass

• Farewell Dinner

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Hotel: Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Tamachi

There are no activities planned on departure day. As you head to the airport, you'll carry with you more than souvenirs. You'll be full of new lesson, unique flavors, sounds, and stories that will linger long after you return home.

Included Activities:

• Airport transfer

Included Meals:

Breakfast