Pop Japan Travel

After meeting up at LAX, our trip begins as we board a plane for Tokyo!

After clearing customs and collecting our bags, we'll head for the city and check in at our hotel. If the jet lag hasn't affected you, join us for a trip to Tokyo Tower to see the city lights from the observation deck!

We'll spend our first full day in the city checking out some of its most famous destinations. First up, the fashion-forward Harajuku area, where unique clothing boutiques, one of Japan's largest "100 Yen" stores, and an endless expanse of kitschy stores are yours to explore. 

In the morning, we'll stop by the beautiful Asakusa area to visit the temples, snack on traditional goodies, and give everyone a chance to pick up a Yukata for the festival if they like. 

After that, we'll head to Akihabara for a look at the techno-saavy, otaku-centric part of Tokyo. While we shop for the latest in character goods and electronics, we'll also pick up some snacks and beverages for what comes next: a picnic near the Edogawa River, where we'll hang out and meet the locals. 
As we finish dinner, we'll be treated to a grand view of the Edogawa Fireworks Display - one of the world's largest! Finally, after the fireworks, we'll hang around the area and take in the river views as we wait for the crowds to disperse.

Today, we escape the noise of the big city to check out the "Kyoto of Kanto," Kamakura! Our first stop will be Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, where seasonal lanterns painted by local artists will mark our steps to the shrine gates. After taking a break, we'll proceed to the scenic overlook and mysterious caves of Hase Temple. Finally, we'll visit the gigantic Buddha statue in the city center - and maybe take a peek inside him as well!

Before we venture to the shores of the Izu Peninsula, take a free day to explore the parts of Tokyo you may have missed, or head off to a completely different destination! Your guide will be happy to assist you with any directions or travel assistance you may need.

After taking a part of our morning to explore the souvenir shops of Tokyo Station, we'll take the train to Ito and check in at our onsen ryokan. After a quick lunch in town, you'll have time to enjoy the onsen baths before heading to the waterfront to watch a Taiko concert and buy yummy festival food from the local vendors there. When the day's done we'll gather back at the ryokan to rest up for tomorrow!

Ito City will be full of activity today with the beginning of their annual Anjinsai Festival - but first, we'll take a detour North to take a hike along the picturesque Jogasaki coastline. After getting back to town, we'll check out the local parades, wander the festival, and meet a local taiko group (who knows, maybe they'll teach us a thing or two!). After returning to the onsen for a fancy dinner, we'll grab our picnic gear and head into town to gaze at the second firework display of our journey! Finally, we'll regroup at the onsen for one last night of fun and games!

Return home and tell your friends how much fun you had!