This 14-day journey through Japan offers a perfect blend of cultural discovery and scenic beauty. Begin by exploring Tokyo’s vibrant districts and historical landmarks before heading to the serene landscapes of Hakone. Enjoy a traditional stay in Takayama and marvel at the lively streets of Osaka. Visit Hiroshima’s poignant Peace Memorial Park and take a ferry to Miyajima Island. The tour concludes in Kyoto, where you’ll experience Zen temples, a traditional tea ceremony, and a farewell dinner with a Maiko performance. Highlights include visits to Mount Fuji, Itsukushima Shrine, and Fushimi Inari’s iconic torii gates.
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
Upon arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport, you will be greeted by an English-speaking assistant in the arrival lobby. If you're unable to locate the assistant, don’t worry – they may be momentarily assisting other guests, and you’ll find their contact information in your pre-departure guide. The assistant will provide you with a bus ticket and guide you to the correct bus stop for your transfer to the hotel. The airport bus will take you directly to your hotel or to a bus stop within a 10-minute walk of the hotel. Feel free to ask the assistant for any further guidance before they leave. Settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening after your arrival. Your welcome briefing will be held the next morning.
Day 2: Tokyo (B)
After breakfast, meet your fellow travelers and your tour leader in the hotel lobby for a welcome briefing at 9:00 am. It’s a great opportunity to get to know each other and prepare for the adventure ahead. You will then explore the city using Tokyo's extensive railway network. Your first stop is the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, the leader who opened Japan to the West. The entrance to this shrine is marked by a grand, 12-meter-high torii gate made of ancient cypress trees, setting the tone for the serene walk through the shrine's vast 200-acre forest. From there, take a stroll through Harajuku’s vibrant Takeshita Dori, a street famous for its trendy shops, colorful boutiques, and unique street food stands. A short train ride will bring you to Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s liveliest districts. Shibuya is renowned for its iconic pedestrian crossing, bustling with life under giant neon advertisements and video screens. End your day at one of Tokyo’s famous department store food halls, or “depachika,” where you cansample a variety of culinary delights before returning to your hotel for a free evening. Be prepared for plenty of walking and using public transportation.
Day 3: Tokyo (B)
Today begins with a visit to the bustling Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and most cherished temple in Tokyo. As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll learn about the profound impact of Buddhism on Japanese culture. If time permits, you might wander to nearby Kappabashi Dori, a street lined with specialty stores selling everything from kitchenware to plastic food displays. Next, ascend to the 450-meter-high observation deck of the Tokyo Skytree, offering panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis below. In the afternoon, head to Yanaka Old Town, a quiet and picturesque neighborhood that survived the bombing of World War II. Take a peaceful stroll through Yanaka Cemetery, a serene place that feels more like a park than a burial ground. If you're interested in fabrics and sewing, a stop a
Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D)
After breakfast, meet your guide in the lobby at 8:45 am. Today, you’ll be transferring to Hakone, known for its scenic views and natural hot springs. Your main luggage will be sent ahead to your hotel in Takayama, so you’ll need to pack an overnight bag for your stay in Hakone. Board the train and head to Hakone, a historical rest stop since the 16th century. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi, followed by a ride on a ropeway (weather permitting) for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and, in the distance, the majestic Mount Fuji. In the evening, check into your traditional Japanese hotel and experience a night of luxury. Slip into your yukata and relax in the on-site onsen before indulging in a traditional Japanese dinner. Depending on availability, you may stay in a Japanese-style room with tatami flooring and futon bedding or a Western-style room.
Day 5: Hakone to Takayama (B)
This morning, meet your guide at 8:20 am and travel by train to the mountain town of Takayama. Along the way, enjoy the scenic views as you ride the bullet train to Nagoya, where you’ll transfer to a limited express train to Takayama. Arriving around 2 pm, explore Takayama’s beautifully preserved streets and wooden houses. Wander through Kami Sannomachi Street, a charming area filled with craft shops, food stores, and sake breweries. Enjoy an evening stroll along the banks of the Miyagawa River, taking in the town's rich history and craftsmanship.
Day 6: Takayama to Kanazawa (B)
Start your morning with a visit to the Miyagawa Morning Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce, sweets, and traditional crafts. Next, explore the historic Takayama Jinya, a former government building that provides fascinating insights into Japan’s feudal past. In the afternoon, board a private coach and travel to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses, known as gassho-zukuri. These picturesque homes, nestled among the mountains and fields, offer a glimpse into Japan’s rural life. Afterward, continue to Kanazawa for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Kanazawa (B)
Today, you’ll discover the historical treasures of Kanazawa, a city that was spared from bombing during World War II. Begin your day with a visit to Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, known for its seasonal beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Next, head to Omicho Market, where you can explore over 300 years of food culture. This bustling market is the perfect place to sample fresh seafood and regional delicacies. After lunch (on your own), visit the Shima Teahouse, a beautifully preserved 19th-century teahouse offering a glimpse into Japan’s geisha culture. End your day in the Higashi Chaya District, where you can wander through the narrow streets lined with Edo-period architecture, tea houses, and shops.
Day 8: Kanazawa to Osaka (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Osaka by train. Your luggage will be sent ahead to your hotel, so you’ll need an overnight bag. Upon arrival, dive into the energetic atmosphere of Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city. Visit the famous Dotonbori district, known for its neon lights, street food, and lively nightlife. In the afternoon, explore Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. The castle is surrounded by expansive grounds and gardens, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and cherry blossom viewing in season. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.
Day 9: Osaka - Nara Day Trip (B)
Today, take a day trip to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. After a scenic train ride, visit the famous Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha of Nara, a colossal bronze statue standing at 15 meters tall. Stroll through Nara Park, where you’ll encounter friendly deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods. Next, venture to Horyu-ji Temple, the world’s oldest wooden structure. After exploring Nara, return to Osaka in the evening.
Day 10: Osaka to Hiroshima (B/L)
Board the bullet train to Hiroshima, a city forever marked by the events of August 6, 1945. After arriving, enjoy a lunch of Hiroshima’s specialty, okonomiyaki. Spend the afternoon visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb and the pursuit of a peaceful world. You will also see the A-Bomb Dome, a haunting yet powerful symbol of Hiroshima’s history. After this sobering experience, enjoy a free evening to explore Hiroshima’s lively modern city center.
Day 11: Hiroshima - Miyajima Island to Kyoto (B)
In the morning, take a ferry to Miyajima Island, known for its stunning floating torii gate and the peaceful Itsukushima Shrine. Explore the island’s charming streets, filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops offering local delicacies. Afterward, return to Hiroshima and take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, where you will spend the night.
Day 12: Kyoto (B)
Your day in Kyoto begins with a visit to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, wander through Ninnenzaka, a traditional area with beautifully preserved medieval architecture. After a leisurely lunch, continue to Kennin-ji, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, before ending your tour at Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 goldenstatues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. In the afternoon, enjoy a special tea ceremony, where a kimono-clad instructor will introduce you to the art of cha-no-yu, the Japanese tea ceremony.
Day 13: Kyoto (B/D)
Begin your morning with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind through the mountainside. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore Kyoto at your own pace. In the evening, experience the magic of Kyoto’s geisha culture with a guided walk through the Gion district, followed by a farewell dinner accompanied by a traditional Maiko performance. This exclusive experience allows you to interact with a Maiko, a young apprentice geisha, and pose for pictures while enjoying a delectable meal.
Day 14: Departure from Kyoto (B)
Its time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home.
