Michele Simon
Travel Stamp Junkees
Culture Therapy in Japan
Oct 11, 2026 to Oct 19, 2026
Tokyo & Kyoto
CULTURE THERAPY: RESET THE SOUL IN JAPAN
Where Tokyo Energy Meets Kyoto Peace
October 11 - 19, 2026
Welcome to your Japan experience — intentionally curated by Travel Stamp Junkees for travelers who believe culture is more than sightseeing…it’s therapy.
This journey takes you from the vibrant pulse of Tokyo — where modern energy, style, and innovation collide — to the soulful calm of Kyoto, home to ancient temples, sacred traditions, and moments of deep reflection. Every detail of this itinerary is designed to balance movement and stillness, excitement and ease, discovery and restoration.
This is not a rushed tour.
This is not a checklist trip.
This is Culture Therapy — a thoughtfully designed experience that invites you to slow down, be present, and fully immerse yourself in Japan’s beauty, rhythm, and spirit.
Come curious. Come open.
Leave inspired, restored, and forever changed.
Tokyo Pulse. Kyoto Calm.
Culture is the treatment.
Tokyo and Kyoto together offer the perfect balance of Japan’s soul. Tokyo dazzles with its energy, innovation, and modern culture—where tradition and trend live side by side—while Kyoto slows time with its temples, gardens, and centuries-old rituals that invite reflection and peace. Experiencing both cities allows you to feel Japan’s full rhythm: fast and vibrant, calm and timeless, making the journey not just unforgettable, but deeply meaningful.
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Curated Itinerary for 9 Days & 8 Nights
- Hotel accommodations at Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
- Hotel accommodations at Hakone Yunohana Prince Hotel
- Hotel accommodations at Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
- Superior class accommodations for each hotel listed above and as per itinerary based on twin/double share. Double bed rooms are not guaranteed and on a request a basis only
- All transfers and transportation are by private, air-conditioned coach
- Arrival Meet & Greet English speaking assistance
- Local English speaking guide according to the program
- English speaking assistant as per below: Oct 11, 17 (HTL-Kyoto Station), 17 (Kyoto Station-HTL), 19
- Tourist class reserved seat on JR super express train
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Meal as per noted below:
- Daily breakfast
- 1 x lunch
- 3 x dinner
- E-Travel documents
- Travel Stamp Junkees Host On-Site
- Travel Stamp Junkees Gift Package
PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Flights to Tokyo and flights from Kyoto - Travel Stamp Junkees can assist with flight research, if requested
- Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)
- Personal Items, Optional Tours Listed in Your Program (A list of optional tours will be shared in the PAID Facebook group
- Meals unless listed in itinerary and all drinks
- Tips & Gratuities
- Porterage service is not included at the airport and hotels
- Early check-in and late check out of rooms (Standard check-in time is 3PM and check out is 10AM)
- Changes in Government/Local Taxes
- Visa/Passport Handling Fees
- Any future fuel surcharges on land arrangements or additional costs due to COVID rules
ITINERARY:
- October 10 - Depart to Tokyo - PLEASE USE TOKYO AIRPORT HND
- October 11 - Hello Tokyo: Welcome to Tokyo! Our local guide will assist with transferring you to the hotel. Check in is at 3PM and enjoy the rest of your day at your leisure.
- October 12 - Full Day Tokyo Tour: Begin your journey with breakfast a guided half-day tour of Tokyo, taking in iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Tower, the National Diet Building, the Imperial Palace grounds, and historic Tokyo Station. In the afternoon, explore Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple, strolling through Nakamise Street’s traditional shops and experiencing the atmosphere of old Edo. The day continues with an immersive cultural experience, including dressing in a traditional kimono and participating in a serene Japanese tea ceremony. You’ll return to your hotel before enjoying an included dinner at a local restaurant with round-trip transfers.
- October 13 - Tokyo Free Day: Enjoy breakfast and a day at your leisure. Recommendations for optional excursions will be made by Travel Stamp Junkees in the PAID group.
- October 14 - Mount Fuji and Hakone by Coach: After breakfast at your hotel, set off on a full-day excursion to Mt. Fuji and Hakone, with main luggage transported ahead to Kyoto (an overnight bag is required for Hakone). Travel toward Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station for panoramic views of the iconic peak and surrounding landscapes, or to the highest accessible point if weather conditions require. Continue to the scenic Hakone region, enjoying a ride on the Mt. Komagatake Ropeway and a peaceful cruise across Lake Ashi. The day ends with a transfer to your Hakone hotel, where dinner is included.
- October 15 - Hakone to Kyoto: After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing morning onsen before departing Hakone. Transfer by coach to Odawara Station and board the JR bullet train to Kyoto, taking in scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, begin a guided half-day tour of Kyoto, visiting the iconic Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and the spiritually significant Fushimi Inari Taisha, famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. After the tour, transfer to your hotel for check-in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
- October 16 - Kyoto Free Day: Enjoy breakfast and a day at your leisure. Recommendations for optional excursions will be made by Travel Stamp Junkees in the PAID group.
- October 17 - Hiroshima Full Day Tour: After breakfast, depart Kyoto early by shinkansen for a day trip to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, meet your group and travel to Miyajima Island to visit the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its “floating” torii gate and one of Japan’s most celebrated views. After free time for lunch, continue to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to reflect on the city’s history and message of peace, including a visit to the Atomic Bomb Dome. In the evening, return to Kyoto by shinkansen.
- October 18 - Full Day Kyoto and Nara Tour: After breakfast, enjoy a full-day cultural tour of Kyoto and Nara. Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace (subject to confirmation), then travel to Nara to explore Todaiji Temple and Nara Park, home to the famous free-roaming deer. Continue to the lantern-lined Kasuga Taisha Shrine before returning to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, with dinner included at a local restaurant and round-trip transfers provided.
- October 19 - Goodbye Kyoto - DEPART FROM KYOTO AIRPORT KIX: Enjoy breakfast and get transferred to the airport for your international flight back home.
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Modern Comfort in the Heart of Tokyo Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro offers a seamless blend of contemporary comfort and Tokyo convenience, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. Located just steps from Ikebukuro Station, the hotel provides effortless access to major shopping districts, dining, and transportation hubs, while still offering a calm, refined retreat from the city’s energy.
Hakone Yunohana Prince Hotel Nestled high in the Hakone highlands, Hakone Yunohana Prince Hotel offers a peaceful escape surrounded by nature and mountain views. Known for its open-air hot spring baths — some of the highest in Hakone — the hotel lets you soak under the sky while enjoying the calming scent of natural sulfur springs. Accommodation features traditional and Western-style rooms with serene décor reflecting the region’s charm, while on-site dining highlights seasonal Japanese cuisine and kaiseki meals. This tranquil hideaway is the perfect blend of classic onsen culture and scenic relaxation after exploring Hakone’s landscapes and attractions.
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel Blends contemporary comfort with classic Kyoto charm in a peaceful setting just minutes by shuttle from Kyoto Station. Enjoy stylish, air-conditioned rooms, thoughtful amenities, and easy access to key city sights and transport — perfect for exploring Kyoto’s history and culture.
ADDITIONAL TRAVEL INFORMATION
- Traveling abroad requires a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates. For this tour, your passport should not expire before May 1, 2027.
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Key Requirements for U.S. Citizens
- Passport: Must be valid for your entire stay.
- Onward/Return Ticket: Proof you plan to leave Japan within 90 days. You will fly into Tokyo (AIRPORT CODE IS HND) and fly home from Kyoto (AIRPORT CODE IS KIX)
- Proof of Funds: Immigration may ask to see you can support yourself.
- Visit Japan Web: Recommended for pre-registering immigration & customs, though paper forms are available.
- Fingerprints & Photo: Taken upon arrival at immigration.
- Lodging Details: Have your first night's address ready for your landing card.
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What You Don't Need (Currently)
- Visa: Not required for stays under 90 days for tourism/business.
- COVID-19 Proof: No testing, vaccine, or quarantine needed.
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How It Works in Japan (Tokyo & Kyoto):
- You'll get a temporary visitor stamp/digital record for up to 90 days on arrival.
- Immigration: Show passport, get fingerprinted/photographed.
- Customs: Complete declaration (via Visit Japan Web or paper)
- Pro-Tip: Use the Visit Japan Web app to streamline your arrival process and have your hotel/lodging info handy.
- A useful site for travel requirements is - https://jp.usembassy.gov/services/welcomebacktojapan/
- All prices are based on the rate of exchange in effect at the time of price quotation. In the event that the US dollar devalues, Travel Stamp Junkees, LLC reserves the right to increase prices accordingly. Your final invoice will reflect increases resulting from currency devaluation
PAYMENT POLICY DETAILS:
- The initial deposit of $250/Person is due at the time of booking and is non-refundable and non-transferable
- If you are in a double occupancy room, both occupants must pay their deposit before room can be confirmed
- A monthly payment plan has been created to set a payment expectation. The goal is to pay the deposit by January 22, which will give you seven more months to pay for the trip.
- You can choose to pay the $250/Person deposit and follow the monthly payment plan or pay the trip in full.
- You are responsible for making timely payments on your reservation according to the monthly payment plan in your invoice. If you would like to make adjustments to the monthly payment plan, please let me know.
- Upon arrival at each hotel and at check-in, a credit card will be required to cover incidentals and there are no triple occupancy pricing
- THERE ARE NO REFUNDS FOR THIS TRIP DUE TO THE GROUP'S CONTRACT COMMITMENT AND RATE. PURCHASING TRAVEL INSURANCE WILL PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT.
- If you would like to be on auto-pay, it will be offered to you when you book. You can accept the option and my system will take the payments every month per the payment plan established in your invoice.
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- Missing a vacation is bad enough. However, losing the money you paid for your vacation or needing medical attention is even worse. Therefore, we recommend that you purchase Travel Protection that helps provide coverage for Trip Cancellation, Interruption, Baggage Loss or Delay, Medical Expenses, and more
- Need assistance with finding and researching travel insurance options, please reach out to Travel Stamp Junkees
- Travel insurance will protect your investment and the no refund policy for this trip
CANCELLATION POLICY:
- THERE ARE NO REFUNDS! PLEASE PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE TO PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT!
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW:
- A full day-by-day itinerary with detailed descriptions will be provided 120 days before travel, if not earlier
- If you would like to experience other tours outside of the planned itinerary, you are welcome to do that; however, any extra tour expenses will not be covered by Travel Stamp Junkees
- A private Facebook group will be created no later than July 11, 2026
- All accommodations will be 1 King Bed or 2 Twin or Double Beds, unless otherwise requested or specified
- All accommodations include standard room type lodging. If you would like to upgrade your room type, please reach out to Travel Stamp Junkees
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS PROVIDED BY:
- Travel Stamp Junkees - Michele Simon
- travelstampjunkees@gmail.com
- 219-680-9292 I Mobile
- @travelstampjunkees I Instagram
- Travel Stamp Junkees | Facebook
Available Packages
9 Days, 8 Nights - Land Only Package without Flight Single Occupancy - PRICE PER PERSON
Available until July 11, 2026
- available
$5,700.00
Deposit: $250.00 per person
The following price DOES NOT include flights. If you want assistance with flights, please inquire with Travel Stamp Junkees. Accommodations list below:
Hotel Metropolitan Ikebukuro：
Single use: One bed
Double use: Two beds
Yunohana Prince Hotel：
Single use: One Japanese-style room (futon) no bed
Double use: Two Japanese-style room (futon) no bed
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel：
Single use: Room with two beds (used by one person)
Double use: Two beds
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
Hakone Yunohana Prince Hotel
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Bedding: One King Bed or Two Twin or Double Beds
All Payments are Non-Refundable and Non-Transferable.
A payment schedule will be built into your invoice after deposit payment. It can be modified and YOU HAVE THE OPTION TO BE SET UP ON AUTO PAY. A few additional comments regarding the payment schedule
1. Travel Stamp Junkees is requesting the $250/Person Non-Refundable Deposit to be paid at your earliest convenience OR by January 22, 2026. The sooner you pay your deposit, the more time you have on the payment plan.
2. There are a set number of rooms being held for our group. Once those rooms sell out, adding more will be based on the hotels availability. Note: Availability at our hotel can change at any time.
9 Days, 8 Nights - Land Only Package without Flight Double Occupancy - PRICE PER PERSON
Available until July 11, 2026
- available
$4,910.00
Deposit: $250.00 per person
The following price DOES NOT include flights. If you want assistance with flights, please inquire with Travel Stamp Junkees. Accommodations list below:
Hotel Metropolitan Ikebukuro：
Single use: One bed
Double use: Two beds
Yunohana Prince Hotel：
Single use: One Japanese-style room (futon) no bed
Double use: Two Japanese-style room (futon) no bed
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel：
Single use: Room with two beds (used by one person)
Double use: Two beds
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
Hakone Yunohana Prince Hotel
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Bedding: One King Bed or Two Twin or Double Beds
All Payments are Non-Refundable and Non-Transferable.
A payment schedule will be built into your invoice after deposit payment. It can be modified and YOU HAVE THE OPTION TO BE SET UP ON AUTO PAY. A few additional comments regarding the payment schedule
1. Travel Stamp Junkees is requesting the $250/Person Non-Refundable Deposit to be paid at your earliest convenience OR by January 22, 2026. The sooner you pay your deposit, the more time you have on the payment plan.
2. There are a set number of rooms being held for our group. Once those rooms sell out, adding more will be based on the hotels availability. Note: Availability at our hotel can change at any time.