Adventure Through Japan with Drifter's Joint

Dates

Sep 13–19, 2023

Group Size

8–24 Travelers

Duration

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Tokyo. The largest metropolis in the world, with an almost-impossible melding of millennia-old culture and futuristic architecture, burnt down and rebuilt twice, nothing compares to the fast-beating heart of Japan, and this 7-day trip is the perfect way to experience everything that makes the Land of the Rising Sun so unique. Explore the modern and traditional souls of Tokyo, and visit the temples and shrines of Kamakura and the hot springs of Hakone beneath the towering Mt. Fuji.
$2,495USD
$2,595USD
Sep 13–19, 2023
7 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Drifter's Joint
Drifter's Joint

Hello stranger, My name is Joshua. You know me as Drifter's Joint- a page dedicated to the art and craft of the cocktail. What better way to experience that, than together and abroad in another country! I hope you can join me on this journey. We may meet as strangers but i can guarantee you, we will leave as friends. Cheers!

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Trip Activities

  • Meiji Shrine Visit

  • Explore Harajuku and Takeshita Street

  • Omotesando and Shibuya Walking Tour

  • Whisky Bar

  • Asakusa Walking Tour

  • Guided Akihabara Visit

  • Whisky Adventure

  • Tsukiji Wholesale Market

  • Rikugien Gardens Admission

  • Yanesen Guided Tour

  • Nezu Shrine Visit

  • Odawara Castle Entrance and Tour

  • Owakudani Ropeway and Volcanic Vents

  • Ashinoko Lake Cruise with Mt. Fuji Views

  • Yumoto Hot Springs Area Visit

  • Optional Onsen Spa Visit

Optional Activities*

  • Sumo Training Experience

*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Late Night Cocktail Crawl (9- Til Late)

Informal Gathering
Kicking off the trip with a late night celebratory cocktail crawl in the heart of Shinjuku. We will get to experience the beautiful cocktail culture the city has to offer, while also getting to know everyone in the group. This gathering is excluded from the itinerary, so each traveler will be responsible for their own transportation and expenses for this specific activity. Cocktail Bars: Ben Fiddich, Bar Livet, Bar PSY

Late Night in Shibuya (9- Late)

Informal Gathering
Explore the bustling culture of Shibuya lined with unique cocktail and karaoke bars and a fantastic nightlife that stretches into the early hours of the morning. This gathering is excluded from the itinerary, so each traveler will be responsible for their own transportation and expenses for this specific activity. Drunkard Alley (Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho), Karaoke, Family Night Club

Night in Shinjuku Golden Gai (9-til late)

Informal Gathering
Wander the alleyways of Golden Gai. A historic alley crammed with several tiny bars with unique themes. This gathering is excluded from the itinerary, so each traveler will be responsible for their own transportation and expenses for this specific activity.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Tokyo! Make your way into the city and meet your group in Shinjuku. In the evening, you’ll venture out amongst the city lights for your welcome dinner and explore Kabukicho, known as Japan's largest red-light district and the home of bars, pachinko parlors and love hotels.

Airport Transfer

TrovaTrip will provide 2 transfers from Haneda Airport (HND) between 12 pm and 5 pm.

dinner

Welcome dinner with your group in Kabukicho is included.

Late Night Cocktail Crawl (9- Til Late)

Kicking off the trip with a late night celebratory cocktail crawl in the heart of Shinjuku. We will get to experience the beautiful cocktail culture the city has to offer, while also getting to know everyone in the group. This gathering is excluded from the itinerary, so each traveler will be responsible for their own transportation and expenses for this specific activity. Cocktail Bars: Ben Fiddich, Bar Livet, Bar PSY

Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/6

Overnight in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 2

Info

Starting off with the massive Meiji Shrine complex, you’ll head through the fashion-forward Takeshita Street and Harajuku proper to Omotesando and the famous Shibuya Scramble crosswalk. Take an elevator to the top of a nearby building to watch the sea of people below and the cityscape stretching out before you. Afterward head back to Shinjuku to relax, or stay in the area around Shibuya, where you can enjoy the cafes and eateries lining the picturesque canal in Nakameguro.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Meiji Shrine Visit

Meiji Shrine was dedicated to the late Emperor Meiji, beloved by the nation for modernizing Japan in the mid-1800s. The shrine complex is a beautiful walk into nature in the heart of the megalopolis and here you’ll learn about the various rituals and religious importance of Shintoism in Japan. Participate in the purification ritual (if you choose), witness a traditional Shinto purification dance and receive a blessing from a priest.

Explore Harajuku and Takeshita Street

1 Hour

Leaving the seclusion of the shrine, head through the vibrant Takeshita Street of Harajuku, known for youth fashion and city culture. Your Guide will shed light on the culture and history of the area.

Omotesando and Shibuya Walking Tour

2 Hours

Neighboring Harajuku and Omotesando are commonly referred to as Tokyo’s Champs-Elysee. After grabbing lunch in the area you'll continue the walking tour down the broad, tree-lined avenues, to Shibuya. Join the sea of people in what might be the most famous crosswalk in the world, then head up Shibuya Scramble Square for a bird's-eye view.

Whisky Bar

1 Hour

Transfer to a Whisky Bar (Whisky Library or similar) **Drinks paid for by guests**

Late Night in Shibuya (9- Late)

Explore the bustling culture of Shibuya lined with unique cocktail and karaoke bars and a fantastic nightlife that stretches into the early hours of the morning. This gathering is excluded from the itinerary, so each traveler will be responsible for their own transportation and expenses for this specific activity. Drunkard Alley (Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho), Karaoke, Family Night Club

Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/6

Overnight in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

It's time to head east, to the heart of "downtown" Tokyo and its older neighborhoods. For those interested in the traditions and training of Sumo wrestling, join the optional tour of a sumo stable this morning. The whole group will convene in Asakusa and visit the Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. After exploring the traditional areas you'll venture on to Akihabara, home of otaku (nerd) culture. The afternoon is free for you to explore. If you're feeling up to continuing the otaku vibe, stop in Ikebukuro on your own to visit Sunshine City and the Tokyo Pokemon Center.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Asakusa Walking Tour

2 Hours

Asakusa is Tokyo’s oldest geisha district and home to Sensoji Temple, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple. After visiting the old town, you will wander through the side streets of Asakusa, home to many traditional shops that sell local Japanese crafts.

Guided Akihabara Visit

1 Hour

Akihabara, also called Akiba after a former local shrine, is a district in central Tokyo that is famous for its many electronics shops and has also gained recognition as the center of Japan's otaku culture. Many shops and establishments devoted to anime and manga are dispersed among the electronic stores in the district.

Sumo Training Experience (optional)

2 Hours

If you are interested in a behind-the-scenes look at the culture behind Sumo wrestling, there will be an optional excursion to a Sumo training facility. In this experience, you will spend your time at an authentic Sumo training stable and observe where the wrestlers live, eat, sleep, and train. You will watch the athletes’ daily rituals and learn about an important facet of local culture.

Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/6

Overnight in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

Get a taste of Japan on an insightful and exclusive evening whisky tour.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Whisky Adventure

3 Hours

Head to memorable establishments in a lively district of Tokyo to sample some of the best whisky Japan has to offer, and learn why Japanese whisky is considered to be among some of the best in the world. Scotland may well be the traditional home of the wee dram, but Japan has successfully made its mark on the world of whisky distillation. The Japanese culture of taking great pride in the art of patience as well as skill and craftsmanship has ensured success, and Japanese whisky has shot to fame and become prized across the world for its quality and innovation.

Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 4/6

Overnight in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

This morning is free for you to explore Tokyo. Stay in Shinjuku, head to the expansive Shinjuku Gyoen park, up to Ikebukuro, or nearby Shinokubo, the center of Korean culture in Tokyo. In the afternoon you'll return to the "shitamachi'' district to enter a quieter, older part of Tokyo. The Yanesen area combines Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi, old neighborhoods with original, pre-war architecture. Stop first at the Rikugien Gardens, one of the finest traditional Japanese gardens in the country, followed by a visit to the Yanaka Ginza, a traditional shopping street, then Nezu Shrine, known for its line of orange torii gates.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Tsukiji Wholesale Market

1 Hour

Tsukiji Market, which was reclaimed from the sea during the Edo Period (the name Tsukiji literally means ‘reclaimed land’), has long been the vibrant heart of Tokyo’s culinary culture. While the inner wholesale fish market has been relocated to Toyosu, the outer market – which boasts around 400 shops – remains a lively centre for visitors and locals alike to enjoy delicious food, and purchase kitchenware and a variety of local specialties and foodstuffs.

Rikugien Gardens Admission

1 Hour

Often considered Tokyo's most beautiful Japanese landscape garden, Rikugien was built around 1700 for the 5th Tokugawa Shogun. Stroll through and take in the scenery (and great photos).

Yanesen Guided Tour

1 Hour 30 Mins

Yanesen, made up of the three neighborhoods of Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi, is one of Tokyo's best-known shitamachi areas. A literal translation of the term "shitamachi" is lower town, which was where the working class lived. Having survived much of the damage wrought by earthquakes, fires, and WWII, visiting the area today is one of the best ways to get a glimpse into Tokyo's feudal past.

Nezu Shrine Visit

30 Mins

With its line of orange Torii gates, Nezu Shrine is a great place for photography in Tokyo.

Night in Shinjuku Golden Gai (9-til late)

Wander the alleyways of Golden Gai. A historic alley crammed with several tiny bars with unique themes. This gathering is excluded from the itinerary, so each traveler will be responsible for their own transportation and expenses for this specific activity.

Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 5/6

Overnight in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

On your last full day in Japan, you'll head out of the city to Hakone, a world-famous destination for its hot spring baths and views of nearby Mt. Fuji. Stop first to visit Odawara Castle, a reconstructed version of one of Japan's traditional castles, then you'll ride the ropeway up to the steam vents of Owakudani. You’ll ride a wooden boat in Lake Ashinoko, and later, visit the hot springs town of Yumoto (with the chance for an optional onsen visit!)

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Odawara Castle Entrance and Tour

1 Hour

Odawara Castle was originally built in the mid-15th century and soon fell into the hands of the Hojo Clan, one of the most powerful clans during the Warring States Era who used it as a base to control the region around modern-day Tokyo. Rebuilt in 1960, it stands today as an impressive site in the area with great views from the top-level observatory.

Owakudani Ropeway and Volcanic Vents

1 Hour

Ride the Guinness World Record-holder ropeway all the way up to Mt. Owakudani, passing over sulfurous fumes and hot springs. Take in the views at the top and buy a black hard-boiled egg if you wish.

Ashinoko Lake Cruise with Mt. Fuji Views

1 Hour

Cruise the waters on a replica pirate ship with views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. With the volcano above and forests lining all sides, the views from Lake Ashinoko are breathtaking.

Yumoto Hot Springs Area Visit

Hakone has been one of Japan's most popular hot spring resorts for centuries. Nowadays, more than a dozen springs provide hot spring water to the many bathhouses and ryokan in the Hakone region. Yumoto, at the entrance to the Hakone area near Odawara, is the area’s most famous hot spring with a particularly long history, high-quality water and numerous baths and inns. Many more hot spring facilities are found across the hills and valleys of Hakone and along the shores of Lake Ashi. While in Yumoto you can join an optional Onsen (Hot Springs) visit, or explore the town. Please Note: Almost all Onsen/Hot Springs do not allow for tattoos or body piercings, and all require nudity to enter.

Optional Onsen Spa Visit

1 Hour

For those that wish to, your Guide will take you to a nearby Onsen, or hot water bath house. Soak in the traditional baths inside and the scenic "Rotenburo," an outside hot springs pool. Please Note: Entrance to the Onsen is not included and can be paid onsite in local currency. Onsen has strict rules against tattoos, and any visitors with tattoos will not be permitted to enter. In addition, all visitors must be fully naked to enter the baths and pools, with no exceptions.

dinner

Enjoy a traditional "kaiseki," a multi-course Japanese meal for your farewell dinner. Toast your memories of the trip and newfound friends!

Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 6/6

Overnight in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Info

Until next time! Continue on in Japan on your own, or return home with new friends and incredible memories.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

TrovaTrip will provide 2 transfers to Haneda Airport (HND) on the last day.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.