11 Days Takayama & Villages | Hiroshima - Cherry Blossom Seasonal Tour

Day 1 Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour app for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From Narita Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 90 mins(Bus)
From Haneda Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 30 mins(Bus)

Day 2 Tokyo | The Powerful Thunder Gate of Asakusa

We start off our Japan Cherry Blossom tour with a visit to the Fukagawa Edo Museum to get acquainted with the history of Tokyo. This charming museum is designed to replicate what life looked like during Japan's traditional days of Edo. Travel back in time and walk through the old city of Tokyo made to recreate life during Japan's Edo period. We will also make our way across the street for a visit to Kiyosumi Garden, a traditional Japanese garden nestled within the bustling metropolis.

Our next stop is Tokyo's Tsukiji Fish Market, the former home of the world-famous tuna auction. Browse through the freshest flavors, mouth-watering dishes, and incredible sushi meals at this market that serves over thousands of businesses and local families daily before we explore the rest of the sights in Tokyo!

For lunch, enjoy a Japanese seasonal dining experience.

The tour will then head to the old town district of Asakusa where you can purchase traditional Japanese souvenirs at the Nakamise area and explore Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and the most popular temples in Tokyo.

Day 3 Tokyo | Sightseeing through Tokyo's Multi-Cultural attractions

Our first stop this morning will be Meiji shrine which was dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife in 1920. Enjoy the morning stroll through a peaceful and serene shrine. It is hard to believe that the busy Harajuku station is only a few minutes away.

Then we are off to discover Harajuku & Omotesando area. There are filled with cute shops, delicious crapes, high end stores and beautiful café and restaurants. Don't forget to check out Cat Café and Headgehog café for those who love animals. Here you have opportunity to try local venders for lunch.

We will then make our way to the famous Shibuya Crosswalk to be part of the thousands who cross daily. This crosswalk gathers as much foot traffic as New York City, and crossing is an experience unlike any other.

Our day commences with a visit to Tokyo Station, a hub of activity and architectural beauty. From there, we'll make our way to Meiji Shrine, a serene haven dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his consort. As you stroll through its tranquil grounds, you'll find it hard to believe the bustling city is nearby.

Continuing our adventure, we explore the trendy area of Omotesando, lined with chic boutiques, charming cafes, and stylish shops. This is also the gateway to Meiji Jingu Shrine, a captivating contrast of modern luxury and traditional spirituality. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Cat Street for an array of unique shops and boutiques.

Our journey leads us to the iconic Shibuya Crossing, where you can immerse yourself in the dynamic flow of humanity. Nearby, you'll find the loyal Hachiko statue, a touching testament to loyalty and companionship.

Concluding our day, we head to the futuristic Odaiba area. Here, you can enjoy the impressive architecture and stunning views of Rainbow Bridge.

Day 4 Tokyo & Nagano | Cherry Blossoms along Traditional Japanese Art

Our Cherry Blossom Takayama Japan tour will start the day enjoying Hakone's Itchiku Kubota Art Museum. Itchiku Kubota was a textile artist who devoted his life to recreating the forgotten 15th century Tsujigahana fabric dyeing technique. Many of his work is on display at this museum. Browse through the decadent collection of Kimono decorated in this traditional Japanese art.

We will then 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 5 Nakasendo & Takayama | Hiking through Traditional Japanese Towns

Today, our Takayama tour will have several stops before arriving in the city of Takayama. We’ll be following the Nakasendo Trail and enjoy a brief hike between Tsumago and Magome, the forty-second and forty-third stations of the trail respectively. 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, allowing visitors to experience what it was like walking through town during the Edo Period. Enjoy some wagashi Japanese sweets and relax with a cup of tea before we make our way to Takayama.

The first stop in Takayama will be the Takayama Yatai Kaikan or Takayama Float Museum. Takayama is home to what is regarded as one of the three most beautiful festivals in Japan, the Takayama Festival. During the festival, ornately decorated floats are paraded through the streets and are a highlight of the festival itself. The museum provides the history and an up close look of the floats used during the festival, shedding light on the heart and soul of the city.

Day 6 Takayama, Shirakawago & Kanazawa | Exploring Little Kyoto

We’ll begin our day in Takayama with a visit to the morning market, one of the many areas in the city with buildings and shops more than 300 years old. Enjoy exploring the area by visiting the numerous vendors and important sightseeing spots. We recommend trying Hida Nikuman (beef buns) or Gohei-Mochi while at the market.

While at the market, we also recommend visiting the Takayama Jinya, a building which served as the local government office from 1692 up until 1969. Now a public museum, you can learn about the history of the building as well as old government documents and city plans of the area. The tour will also take a stroll through Takayama’s old town district which is filled with many well-preserved buildings from the Edo Period back when the city thrived as a wealthy merchant town.

Your group will then make its way to the small, rural farming village of Shirakawa-go, famous for its thatched-roof houses made using the gassho-zukuri method. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will get a glimpse into the traditional Japanese farming life in the early eras. A visit to the Nagase House, will provide insight on the various tools and trinkets used in the farming village back in the day.

Our last stop of the day will have you 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. It is also one of the best places to view cherry blossoms in the prefecture so be sure not to miss this opportunity for some breathtaking photos.

Day 7 Shiga & Kyoto | Museum designed by the Legendary I.M. Pei

We begin our day with a visit to the Koke no Sato Wisdom Forest. The Forest of Wisdom is one of the best places to see various Japanese moss, and the Wisdom House in the forest is meant to encourage guests to share experiences with others or engage in a workshop before getting lost in nature.

We then make our way 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. You can also enjoy the cherry blossoms planted throughout the museum grounds as you make your way around.

The tour will then head to Kyoto for 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. Try your hand at making a traditional cup of matcha!

Day 8 Kyoto | Dine with Japan's Next Generation of Geisha Artisans

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 making for a spectacular photo-op. We continue the tour with a kaiseki lunch accompanied by a maiko performance. Maiko are apprentice to Geisha and the meal is a great chance to take photos and learn about Kyoto's traditional culture.

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.

The rest of the day will be spent 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.

Day 9 Himeji | UNESCO Certified White Heron Castle

Our adventure begins with a visit to Himeji Castle, an iconic symbol that resonates with the region's historical significance. As you explore the castle's magnificent architecture and surrounding grounds, the delicate hues of cherry blossoms infuse a poetic charm, transporting you back in time to an era of samurai and feudal Japan.

Discover tranquility amidst the vibrant blooms of Koko-en Garden, a haven of serenity adjacent to Himeji Castle. The carefully landscaped garden offers a meditative retreat where nature's beauty converges with artistry, providing a perfect setting for reflection amidst the blossoming cherry trees.

Indulge in the savory delights of Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, a beloved dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its fusion of flavors and textures. This culinary masterpiece is not only a treat for the palate but also a representation of Hiroshima's culinary heritage.

Day 10 Hiroshima | The City of Peace's Stunning Park & Museum

Our day's expedition revolves around the exploration of Hiroshima, marking the initiation of the Cherry Blossom tour. We commence by visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome, the solitary structure that endured the aftermath of the Atomic Bombing in Hiroshima. Nestled within the precincts of the Peace Memorial Park, an area once ground zero for the atomic bomb, the Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a poignant testament to the tragedy's impact. As you traverse the park, significant landmarks like the moving Sadako's statue and the resonating freedom bell beckon your attention. The Atomic Bomb Dome, preserved as a beacon of hope for enduring peace, imparts its message to the generations to come.

Immersed in the Peace Memorial Park, don't miss the opportunity to explore the illustrious Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This institution houses an array of artifacts and historical documentation from the bombing, serving as a poignant reminder of Hiroshima's unwavering commitment to global harmony.

In the afternoon, our journey leads us to Miyajima, an enchanting island located to the south of Hiroshima. Distinguished for the captivating Itsukushima Shrine and its ethereal floating torii gate, Miyajima presents a sight that captures the heart. With the rising tide, the torii gate appears to float on the water's surface, creating a visual spectacle that has earned its place among Japan's three most exquisite views. Amidst this breathtaking setting, relish the island's offerings, including the delightful momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cake with red beans) and the succulent oysters, ensuring that your time on the island remains etched in memory.

Day 11 Hiroshima | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

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.