Blue Japan - From Okinawa to Tokyo - Turkish Airlines

1. Day ISTANBUL – OSAKA

We meet at Istanbul New Airport, on the international departures terminal, three hours before the flight (one calendar day before the departure date).

2. Day OSAKA

After baggage, ticket, and boarding procedures, our flight to Osaka begins with Turkish Airlines scheduled flight. Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel in Osaka and free time for rest. Accommodation at the hotel.

3. Day OSAKA

After breakfast at the hotel, departure for a panoramic city tour of Osaka. Our tour includes Osaka Castle, built in the 16th century and playing a significant role in unifying Japan, and the Umeda Sky Building, a panoramic viewpoint composed of two structures. The Umeda Sky Building is an impressive high-rise located near Osaka and Umeda Stations. The 173-meter-high building features the "Floating Garden Observatory" on the 39th floor, connecting two towers. The observatory offers magnificent views of the city from its windows and open-air terrace. Then, free time in the city center until the time indicated by our guide. Later, during the journey to the hotel in the evening, witness a mesmerizing cityscape illuminated by Osaka's streets and modern buildings at night, with colorful billboards, sparkling streetlights, and a lively city atmosphere providing a visual feast. After the tour, free time. Guests who wish can join the optional Nara Deer Park & Todaiji Temple & Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi tour (170 Euro). We start with Todaiji Temple, built in 752, intended to be the head of all Buddhist temples. Over time, it grew in influence and started affecting politics in the 8th century. Todaiji's main hall is famous for being the largest wooden structure in the world. It hosts one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues (Daibutsu). Then, we visit Nara Deer Park, located in the heart of Nara, established in 1880, home to many major attractions including Todaiji Temple and the Nara National Museum, and inhabited by hundreds of freely roaming deer. The deer are considered messengers of the gods in Japanese mythology, making the area both visually and culturally special. While walking in the park, you'll have the chance to take photos and make unforgettable memories with curious deer approaching closely. Afterwards, we visit Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi, a popular nightlife, shopping, and entertainment district, characterized by its eccentric atmosphere and large illuminated signs, despite its origins as a theater district. After the tour, transfer back to the hotel and free time for rest. Accommodation at the hotel.

4. Day OSAKA – KYOTO

After breakfast at the hotel, check-out and free time. Guests who wish can join the optional Kobe & Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Kiyomizu-dera Temple tour (170 Euro). Departure for Kobe city tour. We start by breathing the fresh air of Meriken Park. Then, we take a photo in front of the famous Kobe Tower, and then explore the streets of Kitano, where historic foreign mansions are located. Afterwards, we enjoy a scenic walk in Nunobiki Herb Garden, immersed in nature. After the tour, we depart for Kyoto city tour. During World War II, Kyoto was the only city in Japan not bombed. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. We begin our city tour with the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, welcoming visitors with a 500-meter walking path. During this walk, you will experience the soothing sound of wind passing through bamboo and take scenic photos. After free time, we visit Ryoanji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden, which is a panoramic spot. Originally a villa of an aristocrat from the Heian period, it was converted into a Zen temple in 1450. The garden's design features the unique characteristic that from any point, at least one rock remains hidden from the viewer. Next, we visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, established in 780, located on the wooded hills of eastern Kyoto, and named after the pure waters of Otowa Falls. Then, we transfer to Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district, situated between Yasaka Shrine to the east and the Kamo River to the west. Afterward, transfer to our hotel in Kyoto and enjoy free time for rest. Accommodation at the hotel.

5. Day KYOTO – OKINAWA

After breakfast at the hotel, check-out and transfer to Osaka Airport. Following our domestic flight, we arrive on Okinawa Island, Japan's tropical pearl, shining like a jewel in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. This island, embraced by turquoise waters and meeting the endless blue sky with white beaches, offers guests a chance to discover a different face of Japan. Upon arrival, we will have a city tour of Okinawa, experiencing both its exotic and historical aspects. Walking along palm-lined boulevards, with the salty sea breeze and tropical flowers, enjoy the unique atmosphere of this island. The pastel-colored houses, warm environment, and peaceful island life resemble a dreamlike tableau. Here, traditional dances, music, and rich cuisine, stemming from the Ryukyu Kingdom's heritage, will be experienced; the island's culture has a unique spirit distinct from other regions of Japan. Sitting at the crossroads of major historic trade routes that connect east and west, this island is renowned not only for its historical buildings but also for its breathtaking natural beauty. We will finish our day with the soothing sounds of the ocean breeze and tranquil rhythm of the island, wrapping up the day. Transfer to our hotel in Okinawa and free time for rest. Accommodation at the hotel.

6. Day OKINAWA

After breakfast at the hotel, free time. Guests who wish can join the optional Lunch & Kerama Islands Snorkeling Tour (190 Euro). In the turquoise waters of Okinawa or its culturally rich historic streets, you'll have the opportunity to choose the most suitable activity for you. The Kerama Islands off Okinawa are world-famous for their clear waters, white beaches, and coral reefs. During the boat trip to the islands, the vast blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean will be with us, and upon arrival, we will snorkel with tropical fish and create unforgettable underwater memories, complemented by a delicious lunch. Alternatively, the Blue Cave, one of the most magnificent natural wonders of the island, awaits us. Guests can join the optional Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour (170 Euro). The cave's rays of light cast a mesmerizing blue glow inside, creating an enchanting underwater experience. For culture enthusiasts, an alternative tour includes the Ryukyu Mura, Okinawa World, Shuri Castle, and Tsuboya Pottery Street (150 Euro). In this tour, guests will see traditional village houses reflecting the Ryukyu Kingdom era, watch local dance and music performances, explore Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness the craftsmanship of Tsuboya Potters. After the tour, transfer back to the hotel and enjoy free time for rest. Accommodation at the hotel.

7. Day OKINAWA   

After breakfast at the hotel, free time. Guests who wish can join the optional Tokashiki Island Lunch & Snorkeling Tour (100 Euro). Known as the pearl of the Kerama Islands, Tokashiki offers visitors an almost undiscovered treasure with its deep blue sea, tropical atmosphere, and tranquil environment. A pleasant ferry ride will take us across the endless blue of the Pacific, and upon arrival, witness the stunning harmony of white sand beaches and emerald waters. Tokashiki is famous not only for its breathtaking nature but also for its peaceful island life. Walking on paths dotted with tropical flowers, you will feel the unique melody of nature; the ocean breeze will calm and soothe you. Enjoy your lunch on the island, and the tranquility of the island will provide an unforgettable peace to your mind and body. Afterward, ferry transfer back to Okinawa and free time for rest at the hotel.

8. Day OKINAWA – NAMIS & SHOPPING ARCADE & GINZA & SHIBUYA PEDESTRIAN CROSSING & TOKYO

After breakfast at the hotel, check-out and transfer to the airport. Following our domestic flight, we arrive in Tokyo, the city of lights and skyscrapers, and the heart of Japan. Upon arrival, enjoy a panoramic city tour, beginning at Nakamise Shopping Arcade, known for its colorful shops and traditional atmosphere. Wander through the old streets filled with souvenirs and crafts. Then, head to Ginza, Tokyo's luxurious shopping district, famous for its high-end brands, modern architecture, and elegant streets. The final stop will be at the iconic Shibuya crossing, the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world, where we will experience Tokyo's non-stop energy and vibrant neon lights. After the tour, transfer to the hotel in Tokyo and enjoy free time for rest. Accommodation at the hotel.

9. Day TOKYO – ISTANBUL

Early morning, after breakfast, check-out from the hotel and transfer to the airport as guided by our guide. After baggage, ticket, and customs procedures, our scheduled Turkish Airlines flight will depart for Istanbul. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, our tour and services conclude.