Experience the world of sumo as you join sumo wrestlers for a delectable ‘chanko’ sumo lunch, while learning about their unique traditions. Step into the shoes of a sumo wrestler by trying on a sumo suit and testing your skills against a professional. Explore the enchanting bamboo groves of Arashiyama, near Kyoto, as you wander along meandering paths amidst towering bamboo stalks. Indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal in Kyoto, accompanied by the captivating entertainment of a Maiko. Seize the opportunity to gain insider knowledge about the intriguing life of an apprentice Geisha, adding an extra layer of fascination to your journey.
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo, you will be transferred to your hotel. Take advantage of some free time to unwind and explore the city at your own pace. You will be staying in Tokyo for two nights, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and discovering its captivating attractions.
Day 2: Tokyo (B/L)
Explore Tokyo on foot and the underground rail network. Visit serene Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s most famous Shinto shrine with a 12 metre high torii gate at the entrance. Continue to the Imperial Palace to see Nijubashi, a metal bridge built in 1888. Travel by train to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s liveliest districts, and home to some of the city’s best street food, and old izakaya and yakitori restaurants. Spend time exploring Asakusa before returning to your hotel.
Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D)
Take the train from Tokyo to Hakone, best known for its views of the mountains, natural beauty and hot springs. Travel on the ropeway for beautiful views of Lake Ashi and on a clear day, see iconic Mount Fuji. Sail across the waters of Lake Ashi on a pirate ship before returning to your
accommodation. Stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese guesthouse and enjoy a delicious dinner, soak in the onsen and sleep on a futon mattress in an immaculate tatami-floored room.
Day 4: Hakone to Takayama (B)
Travel by train from Hakone to the ancient town of Takayama, celebrated for its remarkably preserved old town district and authentic ambiance. Indulge in a delightful bento box lunch during your journey. Explore the historical significance of Takayama Jinya, a former government building that provides fascinating insights into Japan’s rich history. Take a leisurely stroll along Kami Sannomachi Street, admiring the meticulously preserved traditional wooden houses that line the charming streets. Marvel at the intricate festival floats showcased at Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan. Afterward, enjoy some free time to further immerse yourself in the town’s charm before making your way back to the hotel.
Day 5: Takayama (B)
Enjoy a day of leisure in Takayama, allowing you the freedom to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace. Consider visiting the renowned Shirakawago, a World Heritage Listed protected village admired for its breath-taking natural beauty and distinctive steeply pitched thatched roofs, ingeniously designed to endure the region’s heavy winter snowfall. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Takayama by discovering the shrines and temples of the Teramachi district. For another captivating experience, take a short journey to Hida-Furukawa, where you can admire the well-preserved buildings that reflect the town’s historical charm. Embrace the day and create your own unique adventure, immersing yourself in the captivating wonders of Takayama.
Day 6: Takayama to Kyoto (B)
Travel to Kyoto by train, known as Japan’s cultural capital and revered for its Geisha traditions and royal cuisine. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. In the late afternoon, participate in a walking tour along Ponto-cho and Hanami-koji Lane in the Gion district, renowned for their traditional atmosphere. Keep a lookout as you may have the chance to witness a Geisha walking between appointments.
Day 7: Kyoto (B)
Spend the day walking and travelling by public transport to discover Kyoto’s highlights. Take the train to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and marvel at the towering stalks of bamboo before continuing to Tenryuji Temple. See Katsura River from Togetsukyo Bridge and take the iconic purple Randen Train to Ryoanji Temple, the site of the most famous rock garden in Japan. Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), an elegant, gilded 14th century building which is one of Japan’s most cherished sites.
Day 8: Kyoto (B) NEW - now include day trip to Nara
At 9:00 AM, you'll meet your guide at Kyoto Station, where you'll hop on a local train to Nara for a scenic ride of about an hour (ticket included, no reserved seats). Upon arrival, you'll stroll through Nara Deer Park, making your way to the historic Todaiji Temple. At 10:45 AM, you'll have the chance to admire the awe-inspiring Great Buddha inside Todaiji Temple (ticket included). Afterward, take a break and enjoy lunch at Higashimuki and Mochidono Shopping Street, immersing yourself in the local flavors. At 1:30 PM, you'll board a train to Horyu-ji Temple, renowned as the world’s oldest wooden structure (ticket included). Finally, around 6:00 PM, you'll return to your hotel to unwind after a day of cultural exploration.
Day 9: Kyoto (B/D)
At 8:30 AM, you'll meet your guide in the hotel lobby to begin your day. By 9:30 AM, you'll arrive at the famous Kiyomizu Dera Temple, followed by a stroll through the charming streets of Ninen Zaka and Kiyomizu Zaka (ticket included). Around 12:30 PM, after a brief tour of Nishiki Market, you'll have some free time to explore at your own pace or return to the hotel for a break. In the late afternoon at 4:30 PM, you'll meet your guide again for a leisurely walk through the historic Gion District, leading you to your dinner destination, which could be in Pontocho, Shinbashi, or Hanamikoji. At 6:00 PM, you'll enjoy a delightful dinner in the company of a Maiko or Geisha (ticket included), rounding off the evening before returning to your hotel at 8:00 PM.
Day 10: Departure from Kyoto (B)
Enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel before making your own way to Kyoto Station and onward to the airport for your departure. Thank you for joining us on this wonderful journey!
IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATION: Please note that the outgoing transfer from Kyoto to your next destination is not included in the tour fare, but we would be happy to arrange it for you with an additional surcharge.
