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Little Kyoto. Join us as we explore this hidden treasure, along with other populer cities in Honshu, and the southern islands of Kyushu and Shikoku during our Takayama & Villages | Grand Tour. This Japan tour features the right blend of modern day and traditional sights, all designed to make sure you enjoy yourself to the fullest.
Itinerary |
---|
Day 1 Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel 03/29/2020
Featured Destinations & Experiences Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo or similar
Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo ( Western Style )
The Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo is the perfect compliment during your stay in Tokyo. Located in Sumida, this hotel includes thoughtful touches to make your stay as comfortable as possible. During your stay, enjoy free Wi-Fi in your rooms, or venture off to popular close by spots to see the culture Japan has to offer. The Arcakit Kinshicho is conveniently located by the JR station nearby, perfect for shopping, lunch, snacks, daily goods, clothing, and more!
Narita Int'l Airport (NRT)
or
Haneda Int'l Airport (HND)
|
Arrival Transfer
|
Check in to the hotel
|
Purchase
Optional Travel Insurance
Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour handbook for more information.
|
Day 2 Tokyo | The Powerful Thunder Gate of Asakusa Breakfast Lunch 03/30/2020 Breakfast Lunch
Featured Destinations & Experiences Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo or similar
Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo ( Western Style )
The Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo is the perfect compliment during your stay in Tokyo. Located in Sumida, this hotel includes thoughtful touches to make your stay as comfortable as possible. During your stay, enjoy free Wi-Fi in your rooms, or venture off to popular close by spots to see the culture Japan has to offer. The Arcakit Kinshicho is conveniently located by the JR station nearby, perfect for shopping, lunch, snacks, daily goods, clothing, and more!
[
Tokyo
]
Tsukiji Fish Market
|
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
|
Shibuya Hachiko
|
[
Harajuku
]
Takeshita Street
|
Harajuku Crepes (JDT Recommends)
|
Teppan-yaki Dining
|
[
Asakusa
]
Sensoji Temple
|
Return to the hotel
|
Tokyo Skytree - Shopping
|
Ameshin Candy (JDT Recommends)
|
Return to the hotel
Today, we’ll start our morning exploring the Tsukiji Fish Market, former home of the world-famous tuna auction. Browse through the numerous vendors lining the walkways and pick up a couple of mouth-watering snacks made from the freshest ingredients while you are there. The tour then takes you the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crosswalk in the world. Be a part of the almost 2500 people crossing and pay a visit to the Hachiko Statue.
|
Day 3 Hakone & Nagano | Cherry Blossoms along Traditional Japanese Art Breakfast Lunch Dinner 03/31/2020 Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences Matsumoto Marunouchi Hotel or similar
[
Lake Kawaguchi
]
Mt. Fuji
|
Hōtō (Lunch)
|
[
Nagano Prefecture
]
Matsumoto Castle
|
Check in to the hotel
Our Japan tour will start the day by heading to the renown Hakone area. The first stop of the day will make our way up to the Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station where you will find breathtaking views of the mountain up close as well as the surrounding scenery. Be sure to take photos of the unique perspective of Mt. Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes you won’t see anywhere else. After our time at Mt. Fuji, we will stop for Hoto, a Japanese noodle dish and considered a local specialty of the region. Before heading to the hotel, your group will be visiting Matsumoto Castle, also named the Crow Castle due to the unique black color of the building. Considered one of the three premier castles in Japan, the castle has never been destroyed with its initial buildings still intact since construction. The castle tower is Japan’s oldest existing castle tower and is a designated national treasure. |
Day 4 Matsumoto & Takayama | Hiking through Traditional Japanese Towns Breakfast Dinner 04/01/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences Takayama Green Hotel or similar
Takayama Green Hotel ( Japanese Style )
Takayama Green Hotel is a new type of resort that combines the functionality of an urban hotel with the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese inn, giving it an unique ambience of the old city of Hida. The hotel has a traditional indoor/ outdoor hot spring, a restaurant using local products, and traditional souvenir shop. The location is walking distant to Takayama Old Town. Today, our Takayama tour will have several stops before arriving in the city of Takayama, the first being Narai-Juku. This preserved district was the thirty-fourth of the sixty-nine stations of the Nakasendo Trail and is recognized as a Cultural Property of Japan. The district maintains the same facade as it did during the Edo Period, allowing visitors to experience what it was like walking through town during that time period. Visit the many attractions with your tour guide, including the immaculately preserved Nakamura Residence or the stunning Kisho Ohashi bridge. From there, we’ll follow the Nakasendo Trail and enjoy a brief hike between Tsumago and Magome, the forty-second and forty-third stations of the trail respectively. Similar to Narai Juku, the two towns are well-preserved and even go as far as making sure that electrical wires, TV antennas, and telephone poles do not show to recreate the atmosphere of the Edo Period. Enjoy some wagashi Japanese sweets and relax with a cup of tea before we head to the hotel. |
Day 5 Takayama & Kanazawa | Exploring
|
Day 6 Kanazawa | Cheery Afternoon Traditional Craft Workshop Breakfast Dinner 04/03/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences Yamashiro Onsen Rurikoh or similar
Yamashiro Onsen Rurikoh ( Japanese Style )
The Yamashiro Onsen Rurikoh is located in Kaga and has everything you need for a perfect ryokan experience. The hotel offers two restaurants in addition to the hot-springs, and offers free wi-fi in your room to keep you connected through out your stay. Guests can enjoy the numerous spa services offered, or enjoy a leisurly bicycle ride with one of the complimentary use bicycles. There is also a coffee shop onsite as well as a bar.
Kenrokuen Garden
|
Moss Village & Wisdom Forest
|
Yunokuni no Mori - Work Shop
|
Check in to the hotel :
Japanese Style Hotel
|
Japanese Hot Springs
|
Yukata
|
Kaiseki Ryori (Dinner)
|
Taiko Show
*
We will spend the morning taking in the beautiful landscape of Kenrokuen Garden. Considered one of the top three most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan, Kenrokuen contains everything nature has to offer including streams, hills, and seasonal flowers which are sure to calm the soul. Afterwards, our tour will head to the Koke no Sato Wisdom Forest. The Forest of Wisdom is one of the best places to see various Japanese moss with the Wisdom House, located in the forest, meant to encourage guests to share experiences or engage in workshops before getting lost in nature. Our last stop of the day will take you to the city of Komatsu where the group will explore the Yunokuni no Mori traditional Japanese handicraft village. The scenic village offers a variety of workshops including washi (Japanese paper), gold leaf works, Kutani ceramic pottery, Kaga Yuzen (printed silk), glass work, scent bag crafts, and soba making just to name a few. Your tour will include your choice of craft experience. End your day with a long relaxing soak in the onsen, hot spring, before enjoying a kaiseki dinner (traditional Japanese food). You can also enjoy an exhilarating Taiko Show at the hotel if you wish. |
Day 7 Shiga & Nara | Museum designed by the Legendary I.M. Pei Breakfast 04/04/2020 Breakfast
Featured Destinations & Experiences Vischio Kyoto Hotel By GRANVIA or similar
Vischio Kyoto Hotel By GRANVIA ( Western Style )
Located in Higashikujo Nishisannocho, the Hotel Vischio Kyoto is a comfortable hotel to relax during your Japan tour featuring numerous Kyoto landmarks nearby. Higashi Honganji Temple and Sanjusangendo Temple are within walking distance, as is the convenient Kujo Station.
[
Shiga Prefecture
]
Miho Museum
|
[
Nara
]
Todaiji Temple
|
Deer Park
|
Omamori
(JDT Recommends) | Check in to the hotel We begin our day with a visit to the Miho Museum to enjoy a morning filled with contemporary and Japanese art. Designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, the Miho Museum is a modern architectural treasure located in the quiet forests of the Shiga prefecture and is meant to blend seamlessly into the surrounding nature. Take in the calm and picturesque grounds while enjoying the works of art on display ranging from classic modern-day artworks to treasures from ancient civilizations. The tour will then head to Nara to explore Todaiji Temple and the Deer Park. Todaiji Temple is considered one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and holds the largest Buddha statue in Japan, a truly impressive sight to behold. A short walk over and you will stand among the deer of the Nara Deer Park. Considered divine, the deer are adored by people all over the world. |
Day 8 Kyoto | The Morning Sunlight along Arashiyama Breakfast Dinner 04/05/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences Vischio Kyoto Hotel By GRANVIA or similar
Vischio Kyoto Hotel By GRANVIA ( Western Style )
Located in Higashikujo Nishisannocho, the Hotel Vischio Kyoto is a comfortable hotel to relax during your Japan tour featuring numerous Kyoto landmarks nearby. Higashi Honganji Temple and Sanjusangendo Temple are within walking distance, as is the convenient Kujo Station.
[
Kyoto Prefecture
]
Arashiyama
|
Jinrikisha Ride Experience
|
Golden Pavilion
|
Fushimi Inari Shrine
|
Inari Sushi
(JDT Recommends) | Ninenzaka | Tea Ceremony | Maiko Dining Experience | Return to the hotel Our day in Kyoto will start off with a spirited rickshaw ride through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Experience what it was like to get around the city back in the day as you enjoy the relaxing scenery. Next, the group will make its way to the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkakuji Temple, an absolute must-see attraction where the upper two floors are covered with gold leaf. Another short ride away and you will be at Fushimi Inari Shrine, home of the famed thousand torii gates. Explore the area by either making your way through the torii gates to the Omokaru Stone or watch the local priests performing prayers every so often. The rest of the day will be spent taking part in activities that are quintessential to Japanese culture. First up will be a hands-on lesson on the tea ceremony. Learn about the history and meaning behind the ceremony as you watch it being performed before your eyes. Lastly, we will end the evening with a kaiseki dinner accompanied by a maiko performance. Afterwards, your group will get to interact with the maiko, ask questions, and play some classic party games to end the day. |
Day 9 Himeji & Adachi | Modern Japanese Art Museum Visit Breakfast Dinner 04/06/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences TBA or similar
[
Hyogo Prefecture
]
Himeji Castle
|
[
Shimane Prefecture
]
Adachi Museum of Art
|
Izumo Taisha
|
Return to the hotel
Our cherry blossom tour will begin by heading to the Himeji prefecture to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, it is considered one of Japan’s three premier castle. Nicknamed the White Heron Castle due to the castle’s brilliant white walls, the castle maintains almost all of its original structures since its construction in the early 1600’s. After overcoming war, natural disasters, and going through restorative work, enjoy exploring around the stunning castle grounds. After spending time in Himeji, your group will make its way to either the well-preserved Kurashiki district or Adachi Museum of Art depending on your tour departure date. Dating back to the Edo Period, Kurashiki offers a beautiful street scapes of storehouses and merchant homes. The district is included as an Important Traditional Structures Conservation Area by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. If time permits, we recommend taking a leisurely gondola-style boat ride through the canal area. The Adachi Museum of Art in the Shimane perfection houses an art collection including works from illustrious Japanese artists including Yokoyama Taikan, Takeuchi Seiho, Hashimoto Kansetsu, and Sakakibara Shiho. The true gem, however, lies in the museum’s impressive array of Japanese gardens. With 6 gardens to explore, each one provides a distinct feel and atmosphere unique from each other. The impressive gardens have been recognized not only in Japan (Best Garden in Japan since 2003), but also received a three-star rating by the Michelin Green Guide. |
Day 10 Hiroshima | Miyajima's World Famous Floating Shrine Breakfast 04/07/2020 Breakfast
Featured Destinations & Experiences Rihga Royal Hotel Kokura or similar
Rihga Royal Hotel Kokura ( Western Style )
Conveniently situated right next to JR Kokura Station in Kitakyushu, this high-rise urban hotel comprises 30 floors and ascends majestically 433 feet (132 meters) high. RIHGA Hotel Kokura is equipped with the highest-quality facilities and technology, making it an ideal venue for business and community events.
[
Hiroshima Prefecture
]
[
Miyajima
]
Itsukushima Shrine
|
A-Bomb Dome
|
Peace Memorial Park
|
[
Yamaguchi Prefecture
]
Kintai Bridge
|
Return to the hotel
Our tour will start the day with a short boat ride over to Miyajima Island. Here, you will find the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine greeting you as you enter the shrine grounds. The unique sight is due to the natural sequences of the ocean’s tide and is considered on of Japan’s top three most beautiful sights. The island is also known for its Momiji manju and delicious oysters which you can snack on during your visit. After our morning in Miyajima, we will head into the city of Hiroshima. Spend the afternoon strolling around the historically important A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the atomic bombing of the city during World War Two. Surrounding the dome is the Peace Memorial Park where you can learn more about the bombing and see famous attractions like Sadako’s statue and the Freedom Bell. The group will make a quick stop in Iwakuni to visit the Kintai Bridge before heading to the hotel. First built in 1673, Kintai Bridge is recognizable for it’s distinctive five arches made of wood and is considered one of Japan’s most famous bridges. The surrounding area provides picturesque backdrop regardless of the season. |
Day 11 Nagasaki | The Marvelous Dutch-Inspired Glover Garden Breakfast Lunch 04/08/2020 Breakfast Lunch
Featured Destinations & Experiences Dormy Inn Kumamoto or similar
[
Nagasaki Prefecture
]
Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park
|
Glover Garden
|
Oura Church
|
Check in to the hotel
Today, we’ll head make our way to Nagasaki to spend time at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park. The park is situated at the site of the epicenter of the blast from the atomic bomb and contains a commemorative tablet, museum containing exhibits about the bombing, the Fountain of Peace, and the famous peace statue signifying the need for peace and to stand up against war. From there, our tour will head to Glover Garden which exhibits Western style mansions with Japanese influences due to influences from foreign trade in Nagasaki before isolationism ended in Japan. After viewing the gorgeous mansions, we will continue to the Oura Catholic Church, Japan’s oldest standing Catholic church. With foreign trade came new religion and Nagasaki became the main city for Japanese Catholics. |
Day 12 Kumamoto & Takachiho | Samurai History along the Castle Grounds Breakfast Dinner 04/09/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences Beppu Kamenoi Hotel or similar
Beppu Kamenoi Hotel ( Western Style )
The Beppu Kamenoi Hotel is designed to give guests a comfortable stay from check-in to check-out. Relax without worry or indulge in the on-site hot springs and sauna. This magnificent hotel is just a brief walk away from the coast and Beppu station for easy access to explore the city.
[
Kumamoto Prefecture
]
Kumamoto Castle
|
Johsaien - Castle Town
|
Ama-No-Iwato-Shine
|
Takachiho Gorge
|
Tunnel Station
|
Check in to the hotel
Our first stop today will be the city of Kumamoto for a visit to Kumamoto Castle. Kumamoto Castle is one three premier castles in Japan, along with Matsumoto Castle and Himeji Castle which we visited earlier. While we won’t be going inside the castle due to reconstruction, the many views and scenery can still be enjoyed from the castle grounds. The castle grounds also contain Johsaien, a shopping arcade with over 20 shops and the Wakuwaku-za museum featuring the history and culture of Kumamoto. Next, your cherry blossom tour will travel to the fabled lands of Takachiho. Takachiho Gorge is said to be the hiding spot of the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu, when Susano-o, the God of Storms, was terrorizing her. The natural greenery in contrast with the volcanic rock that forms the gorge makes for a magnificent scenery. Our last stop of the day will be the Tunnel Station which houses the Kagura Shuzo Brewery. Sample the local sake and shop for potential gifts at this unique destination. |
Day 13 Beppu & Matsuyama | Southern Japan's Charming Hot Spring Towns Breakfast Dinner 04/10/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama or similar
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama ( Western Style )
The Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama is the perfect getaway while exploring the city of Matsuyama. Situated around great sites and with plenty of great amenities available, find comfort and pleasure during your stay. There is complimentary wi-fi available in all rooms and public areas, so you can stay connected even while on vacation! Our Southern Japan tour continues onwards to Yufuin, a charming rural hot spring town where we will stop by Lake Kinrin and the local shopping street. A special feature of Lake Kinrin is that on top of the regular spring water, hot spring water also feeds into the lake, creating a layer of wondrous mist during cool mornings. After a relaxing morning in Yufuin, we’ll head toward Beppu, a famous hot spring city known for its 8 unique hot spring areas intended for sightseeing only. Today, we will stop by the Umijigoku, or “Sea Hell”, which has beautiful cobalt blue waters due to the various minerals present. This completes our tour of Kyushu and we’ll hop onto a ferry for ride to the neighboring island of Shikoku. Our destination city, Matsuyama, has one of the oldest hot springs in the world: Dogo Onsen. With a history of over 3000 years, this onsen is famous for welcoming the imperial family as guests in the exclusive Yushinden room. The surrounding area also has plenty to see and do with an optional rickshaw ride through the area or some light shopping at the local stores. |
Day 14 Takamatsu & Tokushima | Dancing under the Cherry Blossoms Breakfast Lunch 04/11/2020 Breakfast Lunch
Featured Destinations & Experiences Hotel Vischio Osaka or similar
Hotel Vischio Osaka ( Western Style )
The Hotel Vischio Osaka by Granvia has everything you need to keep your vacation travels comfortable during a Japan tour with Japan Deluxe Tours. This charming hotel is just a stone's throw away from some of Osaka's top tourist attractions and destinations you can't miss in Japan. Unwind at the hotel's restaurant or cafe after a day of exploring the sights of Osaka with your wonderful tour guide.
[
Kagawa Prefecture
]
Udon
(Cooking Workshop) - Cooking Workshop Ritsurin Garden | [ Tokushima Prefecture ] Awaodori Kaikan (Dance Experience) | [ Osaka ] Check in the hotel Our cherry blossom tour today starts today with an Udon making workshop to learn how to hand-make the popular thick-noodle Japanese dish. While Udon is not as well known as Ramen, it is considered a local specialty of the area loved by all the locals. Enjoy a hearty bowl of Udon while learning the art of crafting your own dish. After filling ourselves with a warm meal, your tour will visit what is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, Ritsurin Garden. With the gorgeous Mt. Shiun overlooking the garden and specifically designed to seem as if the garden does not end, you are sure to snap a great picture wherever you are in the grounds.After soaking in some natural beauty, the tour will make its way through Tokushima. We will stop at the Awa-odori Museum, a museum dedicated to the prefecture dance of Tokushima. An annual festival where thousands of spectators will flock to the area to watch the dance being performed during Obon season. Here, we’ll learn about the history as well as learn some parts of the dance. The tour will end the day by heading to Osaka where you can experience the food destination of Japan for dinner on your own. |
Day 15 Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan Breakfast 04/12/2020 Breakfast
Featured Destinations & ExperiencesYour pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.
|
Tour Goods Package
Little Kyoto
The maximum number of participants will not exceed 26 people during your Japan tour. Your group may be joined with other tour groups during the tour. Please note that your bus and tour guide may be changed if other groups join the tour.
Single travelers are required to pay a single supplement in order to guarantee single room accommodation.
We request one suitcase, one carry-on bag, and an overnight bag per person. The tote bag we provide can be used to hold any small merchandise/souvenirs purchased during your tour. When you check out, bring your luggage to the lobby and the bus driver will assist in loading it onto the bus. When you arrive at the next hotel, the bus driver will unload your luggage for you to bring to your room.
Please note: The maximum weight of a checked in bag is typically 20 Kilograms or 44 Pounds. You will be traveling with your luggage except during the bullet train ride (if applicable).
All hotel rooms come with a full bathroom and room amenities free of charge unless stated otherwise.
All motor coaches come equipped with air-conditioning, plenty of space, comfortable seats, and Wi-Fi.
All of our tours begin in either Tokyo or Osaka/Kyoto. When beginning or ending a tour in Tokyo, please book flights to or from Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. For tours beginning or ending in Osaka/Kyoto, please book flights to or from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport.
We recommend you do not book your flights until the tour status changes from Book Now to Guaranteed Departure. You can also contact us if you would like for Japan Deluxe Tour's to arrange your flights.
Traveling and visiting sights in Japan includes a good amount of walking. To fully enjoy the tour, please be prepared to keep up with the pace of the group, climb stairs with no difficulty, and wear comfortable shoes for all day use.
Guests with tattoos may not be able to use the hot-springs or onsens while in Japan. We apologize if you are unable to enjoy this experience during your stay.
We understand sometimes unanticipated situations may arise before or even during your Japan tour. In order to best assist you when things don't go as planned, Japan Deluxe Tours recommends purchasing travel insurance offered through Travel Guard® Insurance.
Travel Guard® Insurance offers coverage for: Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Travel Delay, Baggage Delay, Medical Expense (deductible required), Emergency Medical Transportation, and an Exclusive Family Protection Plan: One child 16 or under will receive coverage at no additional cost for every adult that purchase a protection plan. Every Travel Guard policy includes 24-hour emergency travel assistance services for emergencies or last-minute travel changes, such as re-booking flights, hotel reservations or ground transportation, tracking lost luggage, and more!
For more information about coverage, view our Travel Insurance Page.
We cannot guarantee cherry blossoms will be in full bloom for viewing during this tour. Please refer to our Cherry Blossom Forecast page for updates and information about Sakura Cherry Blossoms and when they are expected to bloom in select cities.
Please notify us before your tour starts if you have any dietary restrictions or requirements we should be aware about. Japan Deluxe Tours can provide Vegetarian
meals for guests, and we will do our best to cater to any serious allergies or dietary restrictions. We will not be able to substitute or change meals after your tour begins.
Day | Itinerary
|
---|---|
Day 1 03/29/2020 |
Day 1 Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel 03/29/2020
Narita Int'l Airport (NRT)
or
Haneda Int'l Airport (HND)
|
Arrival Transfer
|
Check in to the hotel
|
Purchase
Optional Travel Insurance
Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour handbook for more information.
Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo or similar |
Day 2 03/30/2020 |
Day 2 Tokyo | The Powerful Thunder Gate of Asakusa 03/30/2020 Breakfast Lunch
[
Tokyo
]
Tsukiji Fish Market
|
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
|
Shibuya Hachiko
|
[
Harajuku
]
Takeshita Street
|
Harajuku Crepes (JDT Recommends)
|
Teppan-yaki Dining
|
[
Asakusa
]
Sensoji Temple
|
Return to the hotel
|
Tokyo Skytree - Shopping
|
Ameshin Candy (JDT Recommends)
|
Return to the hotel
Today, we’ll start our morning exploring the Tsukiji Fish Market, former home of the world-famous tuna auction. Browse through the numerous vendors lining the walkways and pick up a couple of mouth-watering snacks made from the freshest ingredients while you are there. The tour then takes you the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crosswalk in the world. Be a part of the almost 2500 people crossing and pay a visit to the Hachiko Statue.
Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo or similar |
Day 3 03/31/2020 |
Day 3 Hakone & Nagano | Cherry Blossoms along Traditional Japanese Art 03/31/2020 Breakfast Lunch Dinner
[
Lake Kawaguchi
]
Mt. Fuji
|
Hōtō (Lunch)
|
[
Nagano Prefecture
]
Matsumoto Castle
|
Check in to the hotel
Our Japan tour will start the day by heading to the renown Hakone area. The first stop of the day will make our way up to the Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station where you will find breathtaking views of the mountain up close as well as the surrounding scenery. Be sure to take photos of the unique perspective of Mt. Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes you won’t see anywhere else. After our time at Mt. Fuji, we will stop for Hoto, a Japanese noodle dish and considered a local specialty of the region. Before heading to the hotel, your group will be visiting Matsumoto Castle, also named the Crow Castle due to the unique black color of the building. Considered one of the three premier castles in Japan, the castle has never been destroyed with its initial buildings still intact since construction. The castle tower is Japan’s oldest existing castle tower and is a designated national treasure.
Matsumoto Marunouchi Hotel or similar |
Day 4 04/01/2020 |
Day 4 Matsumoto & Takayama | Hiking through Traditional Japanese Towns 04/01/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Today, our Takayama tour will have several stops before arriving in the city of Takayama, the first being Narai-Juku. This preserved district was the thirty-fourth of the sixty-nine stations of the Nakasendo Trail and is recognized as a Cultural Property of Japan. The district maintains the same facade as it did during the Edo Period, allowing visitors to experience what it was like walking through town during that time period. Visit the many attractions with your tour guide, including the immaculately preserved Nakamura Residence or the stunning Kisho Ohashi bridge. From there, we’ll follow the Nakasendo Trail and enjoy a brief hike between Tsumago and Magome, the forty-second and forty-third stations of the trail respectively. Similar to Narai Juku, the two towns are well-preserved and even go as far as making sure that electrical wires, TV antennas, and telephone poles do not show to recreate the atmosphere of the Edo Period. Enjoy some wagashi Japanese sweets and relax with a cup of tea before we head to the hotel.
Takayama Green Hotel or similar |
Day 5 04/02/2020 |
Day 5 Takayama & Kanazawa | Exploring
|
Day 6 04/03/2020 |
Day 6 Kanazawa | Cheery Afternoon Traditional Craft Workshop 04/03/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Kenrokuen Garden
|
Moss Village & Wisdom Forest
|
Yunokuni no Mori - Work Shop
|
Check in to the hotel :
Japanese Style Hotel
|
Japanese Hot Springs
|
Yukata
|
Kaiseki Ryori (Dinner)
|
Taiko Show
*
We will spend the morning taking in the beautiful landscape of Kenrokuen Garden. Considered one of the top three most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan, Kenrokuen contains everything nature has to offer including streams, hills, and seasonal flowers which are sure to calm the soul. Afterwards, our tour will head to the Koke no Sato Wisdom Forest. The Forest of Wisdom is one of the best places to see various Japanese moss with the Wisdom House, located in the forest, meant to encourage guests to share experiences or engage in workshops before getting lost in nature. Our last stop of the day will take you to the city of Komatsu where the group will explore the Yunokuni no Mori traditional Japanese handicraft village. The scenic village offers a variety of workshops including washi (Japanese paper), gold leaf works, Kutani ceramic pottery, Kaga Yuzen (printed silk), glass work, scent bag crafts, and soba making just to name a few. Your tour will include your choice of craft experience. End your day with a long relaxing soak in the onsen, hot spring, before enjoying a kaiseki dinner (traditional Japanese food). You can also enjoy an exhilarating Taiko Show at the hotel if you wish.
Yamashiro Onsen Rurikoh or similar |
Day 7 04/04/2020 |
Day 7 Shiga & Nara | Museum designed by the Legendary I.M. Pei 04/04/2020 Breakfast
[
Shiga Prefecture
]
Miho Museum
|
[
Nara
]
Todaiji Temple
|
Deer Park
|
Omamori
(JDT Recommends) | Check in to the hotel We begin our day with a visit to the Miho Museum to enjoy a morning filled with contemporary and Japanese art. Designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, the Miho Museum is a modern architectural treasure located in the quiet forests of the Shiga prefecture and is meant to blend seamlessly into the surrounding nature. Take in the calm and picturesque grounds while enjoying the works of art on display ranging from classic modern-day artworks to treasures from ancient civilizations. The tour will then head to Nara to explore Todaiji Temple and the Deer Park. Todaiji Temple is considered one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and holds the largest Buddha statue in Japan, a truly impressive sight to behold. A short walk over and you will stand among the deer of the Nara Deer Park. Considered divine, the deer are adored by people all over the world.
Vischio Kyoto Hotel By GRANVIA or similar |
Day 8 04/05/2020 |
Day 8 Kyoto | The Morning Sunlight along Arashiyama 04/05/2020 Breakfast Dinner
[
Kyoto Prefecture
]
Arashiyama
|
Jinrikisha Ride Experience
|
Golden Pavilion
|
Fushimi Inari Shrine
|
Inari Sushi
(JDT Recommends) | Ninenzaka | Tea Ceremony | Maiko Dining Experience | Return to the hotel Our day in Kyoto will start off with a spirited rickshaw ride through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Experience what it was like to get around the city back in the day as you enjoy the relaxing scenery. Next, the group will make its way to the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkakuji Temple, an absolute must-see attraction where the upper two floors are covered with gold leaf. Another short ride away and you will be at Fushimi Inari Shrine, home of the famed thousand torii gates. Explore the area by either making your way through the torii gates to the Omokaru Stone or watch the local priests performing prayers every so often. The rest of the day will be spent taking part in activities that are quintessential to Japanese culture. First up will be a hands-on lesson on the tea ceremony. Learn about the history and meaning behind the ceremony as you watch it being performed before your eyes. Lastly, we will end the evening with a kaiseki dinner accompanied by a maiko performance. Afterwards, your group will get to interact with the maiko, ask questions, and play some classic party games to end the day.
Vischio Kyoto Hotel By GRANVIA or similar |
Day 9 04/06/2020 |
Day 9 Himeji & Adachi | Modern Japanese Art Museum Visit 04/06/2020 Breakfast Dinner
[
Hyogo Prefecture
]
Himeji Castle
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[
Shimane Prefecture
]
Adachi Museum of Art
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Izumo Taisha
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Return to the hotel
Our cherry blossom tour will begin by heading to the Himeji prefecture to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, it is considered one of Japan’s three premier castle. Nicknamed the White Heron Castle due to the castle’s brilliant white walls, the castle maintains almost all of its original structures since its construction in the early 1600’s. After overcoming war, natural disasters, and going through restorative work, enjoy exploring around the stunning castle grounds. After spending time in Himeji, your group will make its way to either the well-preserved Kurashiki district or Adachi Museum of Art depending on your tour departure date. Dating back to the Edo Period, Kurashiki offers a beautiful street scapes of storehouses and merchant homes. The district is included as an Important Traditional Structures Conservation Area by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. If time permits, we recommend taking a leisurely gondola-style boat ride through the canal area. The Adachi Museum of Art in the Shimane perfection houses an art collection including works from illustrious Japanese artists including Yokoyama Taikan, Takeuchi Seiho, Hashimoto Kansetsu, and Sakakibara Shiho. The true gem, however, lies in the museum’s impressive array of Japanese gardens. With 6 gardens to explore, each one provides a distinct feel and atmosphere unique from each other. The impressive gardens have been recognized not only in Japan (Best Garden in Japan since 2003), but also received a three-star rating by the Michelin Green Guide.
TBA or similar |
Day 10 04/07/2020 |
Day 10 Hiroshima | Miyajima's World Famous Floating Shrine 04/07/2020 Breakfast
[
Hiroshima Prefecture
]
[
Miyajima
]
Itsukushima Shrine
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A-Bomb Dome
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Peace Memorial Park
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[
Yamaguchi Prefecture
]
Kintai Bridge
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Return to the hotel
Our tour will start the day with a short boat ride over to Miyajima Island. Here, you will find the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine greeting you as you enter the shrine grounds. The unique sight is due to the natural sequences of the ocean’s tide and is considered on of Japan’s top three most beautiful sights. The island is also known for its Momiji manju and delicious oysters which you can snack on during your visit. After our morning in Miyajima, we will head into the city of Hiroshima. Spend the afternoon strolling around the historically important A-Bomb Dome, the only surviving building from the atomic bombing of the city during World War Two. Surrounding the dome is the Peace Memorial Park where you can learn more about the bombing and see famous attractions like Sadako’s statue and the Freedom Bell. The group will make a quick stop in Iwakuni to visit the Kintai Bridge before heading to the hotel. First built in 1673, Kintai Bridge is recognizable for it’s distinctive five arches made of wood and is considered one of Japan’s most famous bridges. The surrounding area provides picturesque backdrop regardless of the season.
Rihga Royal Hotel Kokura or similar |
Day 11 04/08/2020 |
Day 11 Nagasaki | The Marvelous Dutch-Inspired Glover Garden 04/08/2020 Breakfast Lunch
[
Nagasaki Prefecture
]
Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park
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Glover Garden
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Oura Church
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Check in to the hotel
Today, we’ll head make our way to Nagasaki to spend time at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Park. The park is situated at the site of the epicenter of the blast from the atomic bomb and contains a commemorative tablet, museum containing exhibits about the bombing, the Fountain of Peace, and the famous peace statue signifying the need for peace and to stand up against war. From there, our tour will head to Glover Garden which exhibits Western style mansions with Japanese influences due to influences from foreign trade in Nagasaki before isolationism ended in Japan. After viewing the gorgeous mansions, we will continue to the Oura Catholic Church, Japan’s oldest standing Catholic church. With foreign trade came new religion and Nagasaki became the main city for Japanese Catholics.
Dormy Inn Kumamoto or similar |
Day 12 04/09/2020 |
Day 12 Kumamoto & Takachiho | Samurai History along the Castle Grounds 04/09/2020 Breakfast Dinner
[
Kumamoto Prefecture
]
Kumamoto Castle
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Johsaien - Castle Town
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Ama-No-Iwato-Shine
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Takachiho Gorge
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Tunnel Station
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Check in to the hotel
Our first stop today will be the city of Kumamoto for a visit to Kumamoto Castle. Kumamoto Castle is one three premier castles in Japan, along with Matsumoto Castle and Himeji Castle which we visited earlier. While we won’t be going inside the castle due to reconstruction, the many views and scenery can still be enjoyed from the castle grounds. The castle grounds also contain Johsaien, a shopping arcade with over 20 shops and the Wakuwaku-za museum featuring the history and culture of Kumamoto. Next, your cherry blossom tour will travel to the fabled lands of Takachiho. Takachiho Gorge is said to be the hiding spot of the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu, when Susano-o, the God of Storms, was terrorizing her. The natural greenery in contrast with the volcanic rock that forms the gorge makes for a magnificent scenery. Our last stop of the day will be the Tunnel Station which houses the Kagura Shuzo Brewery. Sample the local sake and shop for potential gifts at this unique destination.
Beppu Kamenoi Hotel or similar |
Day 13 04/10/2020 |
Day 13 Beppu & Matsuyama | Southern Japan's Charming Hot Spring Towns 04/10/2020 Breakfast Dinner
Our Southern Japan tour continues onwards to Yufuin, a charming rural hot spring town where we will stop by Lake Kinrin and the local shopping street. A special feature of Lake Kinrin is that on top of the regular spring water, hot spring water also feeds into the lake, creating a layer of wondrous mist during cool mornings. After a relaxing morning in Yufuin, we’ll head toward Beppu, a famous hot spring city known for its 8 unique hot spring areas intended for sightseeing only. Today, we will stop by the Umijigoku, or “Sea Hell”, which has beautiful cobalt blue waters due to the various minerals present. This completes our tour of Kyushu and we’ll hop onto a ferry for ride to the neighboring island of Shikoku. Our destination city, Matsuyama, has one of the oldest hot springs in the world: Dogo Onsen. With a history of over 3000 years, this onsen is famous for welcoming the imperial family as guests in the exclusive Yushinden room. The surrounding area also has plenty to see and do with an optional rickshaw ride through the area or some light shopping at the local stores.
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama or similar |
Day 14 04/11/2020 |
Day 14 Takamatsu & Tokushima | Dancing under the Cherry Blossoms 04/11/2020 Breakfast Lunch
[
Kagawa Prefecture
]
Udon
(Cooking Workshop) - Cooking Workshop Ritsurin Garden | [ Tokushima Prefecture ] Awaodori Kaikan (Dance Experience) | [ Osaka ] Check in the hotel Our cherry blossom tour today starts today with an Udon making workshop to learn how to hand-make the popular thick-noodle Japanese dish. While Udon is not as well known as Ramen, it is considered a local specialty of the area loved by all the locals. Enjoy a hearty bowl of Udon while learning the art of crafting your own dish. After filling ourselves with a warm meal, your tour will visit what is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, Ritsurin Garden. With the gorgeous Mt. Shiun overlooking the garden and specifically designed to seem as if the garden does not end, you are sure to snap a great picture wherever you are in the grounds.After soaking in some natural beauty, the tour will make its way through Tokushima. We will stop at the Awa-odori Museum, a museum dedicated to the prefecture dance of Tokushima. An annual festival where thousands of spectators will flock to the area to watch the dance being performed during Obon season. Here, we’ll learn about the history as well as learn some parts of the dance. The tour will end the day by heading to Osaka where you can experience the food destination of Japan for dinner on your own.
Hotel Vischio Osaka or similar |
Day 15 04/12/2020 |
Day 15 Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan 04/12/2020 Breakfast
Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.
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Start | Twin Share | Note | |||
YOU PICKED! Mar 29, 2020 |
$4498 |
$5698 |
12 seats left | Quo Rsv |
All small-group journeys are guaranteed to operate with just 6 guests.