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Itinerary |
---|
Day 1 Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel 03/21/2024
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 a hotel
|
Purchase
Optional Travel Insurance
Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour app for more information. |
Day 2 Tokyo | Enjoy the day free at your Leisure Breakfast 03/22/2024 Breakfast
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! We have cleared up the day for you to explore and enjoy Japan as you wish. During this time, you can also:
|
Day 3 Tokyo | The Powerful Thunder Gate of Asakusa Breakfast Lunch 03/23/2024 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!
Tsukiji Fish Market
|
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
|
Shibuya Hachiko
|
Experience the Flavors of Japan
|
[
Asakusa
]
Sensoji Temple
|
teamLab Planets TOKYO
|
Convenience Store (JDT Recommends)
|
Return to the hotel
Our journey begins with a visit to Tsukiji, where we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo's renowned fish market. Here, we'll marvel at the array of fresh seafood and culinary delights on offer, experiencing firsthand the hustle and bustle of this iconic destination. Next, we'll venture to Shibuya Crossing and pay homage to Hachiko, the loyal Akita dog whose statue stands as a symbol of unwavering loyalty. Amidst the sea of pedestrians, we'll soak in the energy of one of the world's busiest intersections, capturing the essence of Tokyo's dynamic urban landscape. For lunch, we'll indulge in a seasonal dining experience, savoring the flavors of Japan's rich culinary heritage. From delicate sushi to savory tempura, each dish will tantalize our taste buds and showcase the finest ingredients of the season. Afterward, we'll explore the historic district of Asakusa and wander through Nakamise, a bustling shopping street lined with traditional shops and stalls. Here, we'll sample local snacks and browse for souvenirs, soaking in the timeless charm of old Tokyo. To conclude our day, we'll venture to TeamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum where art, technology, and nature converge to create breathtaking installations. As we wander through this mesmerizing space, we'll be transported to otherworldly realms, experiencing art in a whole new dimension. |
Day 4 Tokyo & Nagano | Cherry Blossoms along Traditional Japanese Art Breakfast Lunch 03/24/2024 Breakfast Lunch
Featured Destinations & Experiences IROHA GRAND HOTEL Matsumoto Ekimae or similar
[
Lake Kawaguchi
]
Itchiku Kubota Art Museum
|
Hōtō (Lunch)
|
[
Nagano Prefecture
]
Matsumoto Castle
|
Check in to a hotel
Our Takayama Cherry Blossom 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 | Exploring Historic Trails and Timeless Towns Breakfast 03/25/2024 Breakfast
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.
[
Gifu Prefecture
]
Magome
|
Tsumago
|
[
Takayama
]
Takayama Old Town
|
Takayama Yatai Kaikan
|
Hida Wagyu
(JDT Recommend) | Beef Bun (JDT Recommends) | Check in to a hotel Today, our Takayama Cherry Blossom 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. Our Japan tour will finally reach Takayama. We will head to the Takayama Yatai Kaikan, a museum dedicated to the city’s famous festival floats. While the Takayama Festival itself is not taking place, you will still have the opportunity to witness the craftsmanship and beauty of these intricate floats up close. The Yatai Kaikan displays several festival floats year-round, beautifully adorned with detailed carvings, metalwork, and vibrant colors, illuminating the cultural and artistic heritage of Takayama. This visit provides a unique glimpse into the local traditions and the historical significance of the festival floats. |
Day 6 Takayama, Shirakawago & Kanazawa | Exploring "Little Kyoto" Breakfast 03/26/2024 Breakfast
Featured Destinations & Experiences Hotel Nikko Kanazawa or similar
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa ( Western Style )
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa offers wonderful accommodations with minibars and safes to relax in peace during your Japan tour vacation package with Japan Deluxe Tours. Bathrooms are fully equipped and enjoy complimentary wired and wireless Internet access during your stay. Dining is available at one of the hotel's 5 restaurants and guests can grab coffee at the coffee shop/café. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. This business-friendly hotel also offers multilingual staff, gift shops/newsstands, and concierge services. The hotel also includes designated areas for smoking.
Takayama Morning Market
|
Takayama Old Town
|
Shirakawago
|
Nagase House
|
Gohei-mochi (JDT Recommends)
|
[
Kanazawa
]
Check in to a hotel
|
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. |
Day 7 Kanazawa | Kanazawa's Cultural Tapestry : Gardens, Tea Houses & Samurai Legacy Breakfast 03/27/2024 Breakfast
Featured Destinations & Experiences Hotel Emion Kyoto or similar
Hotel Emion Kyoto ( Western Style )
Hotel Emion Kyoto is located in Central Kyoto, a neighborhood in Kyoto, and is near a train station. Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto National Museum are cultural highlights, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Kawaramachi and Kyoto Station Building. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium or Kyoto Racecourse.
Kenrokuen Garden
|
Higashi Chaya District
|
Kutani Porcelin (JDT Recommends)
|
Ohmicho Ichiba
|
Nomura Samurai House
|
[
Kyoto Prefecture
]
Check into a hotel |
Kyoto Station Light Show
We'll start our exploration of Kanazawa at the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens. This spot is particularly famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring, making it a perfect place for seasonal viewing. Stroll through meticulously maintained grounds that showcase not only seasonal flowers but also elegant water features, providing a perfect introduction to traditional Japanese garden aesthetics. Next, we'll visit the Higashi Chaya District, an enchanting neighborhood known for its well-preserved tea houses where geisha once entertained. It's the ideal place to immerse yourself in the atmospheric beauty of old Kanazawa. Here, you’ll also find shops selling Kutaniyaki ceramics, famous for their intricate designs and vivid colors. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy sweets and souvenirs adorned with Kanazawa’s renowned gold leaf—a testament to the city’s rich artisanal heritage. Our tour continues at the vibrant Omicho Market, where locals have come for fresh produce and seafood since the Edo period. This bustling marketplace is also a great spot to sample local delicacies like fresh sushi and sea urchin. Be sure to try some regional specialties at the food stalls that dot the market. The final stop of the day is the Nomura Samurai House, a historic residence that gives a glimpse into the life of a samurai family. The house features beautiful architecture, a small but elegant traditional garden, and a collection of artifacts that depict the lifestyle of the samurai era. |
Day 8 Kyoto | Dine with Japan's Next Generation of Geisha Artisans Breakfast Dinner 03/28/2024 Breakfast Dinner
Featured Destinations & Experiences Hotel Emion Kyoto or similar
Hotel Emion Kyoto ( Western Style )
Hotel Emion Kyoto is located in Central Kyoto, a neighborhood in Kyoto, and is near a train station. Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto National Museum are cultural highlights, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Kawaramachi and Kyoto Station Building. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium or Kyoto Racecourse.
[
Kyoto Prefecture
]
Arashiyama
|
Jin-riki-sha Ride
|
Golden Pavilion
|
Tea Ceremony
|
Maiko Dining Experience
|
Check into a hotel
|
Yatsuhashi (JDT Recommends)
|
Omamori
(JDT Recommends) | Dango (JDT Recommends) | Our journey begins with a delightful rickshaw ride through Arashiyama, where we'll be captivated by the towering bamboo groves and the tranquil ambiance of this historic district. This serene setting offers a perfect start to our adventure, providing a glimpse into traditional Japanese beauty. Next, we visit the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf. Set amidst meticulously maintained gardens and reflective ponds, Kinkaku-ji stands as a testament to Kyoto's rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. We'll then wander through Ninenzaka's picturesque streets, lined with traditional machiya townhouses. As we stroll through this charming area, we'll soak in the timeless atmosphere of old Kyoto, admiring the well-preserved wooden buildings and quaint shops that evoke the spirit of Japan's historical past. Our cultural journey continues with a traditional tea ceremony, where we'll learn the art of matcha preparation from a skilled tea master. This experience offers a serene and meditative insight into the ancient ritual, allowing us to appreciate the intricate beauty of Japanese tea culture. To conclude our day, we'll enjoy a memorable dining experience featuring Kyoto cuisine. During dinner, we'll have the opportunity to meet Maiko, apprentice geisha, who will offer us a unique taste of traditional entertainment and hospitality. This immersive experience provides a captivating end to our day, blending exquisite food with cultural enrichment. |
Day 9 Kyoto, Nara & Osaka | Meet & Greet the friendly Deer of Nara Breakfast Lunch 03/29/2024 Breakfast Lunch
Featured Destinations & Experiences Onyado Nono Namba Natural Hot Spring or similar
Onyado Nono Namba Natural Hot Spring ( Japanese Style )
Located near a boardwalk/promenade, Onyado Nono Namba Natural Hot Spring is in Minami, a walkable area in Osaka with great shopping. Dotonbori is worth checking out if trying local street food is on the agenda. Guests love the hotel's convenience to public transportation: Nippombashi Station is just steps away and Nagahoribashi Station is 9 minutes by foot.
[
Kyoto Prefecture
]
Fushimi Inari Shrine
|
Inari Sushi
(JDT Recommends) | KYOTO SAMURAI and NINJA MUSEUM | [ Nara Prefecture ] Naramachi | Todaiji Temple | Deer Park | Check into a hotel : | Dotonbori | Shinsaibashi | Takoyaki (JDT Recommends) | Kushiage (JDT Recommend) Our journey begins in Kyoto with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. Renowned for its thousands of vibrant torii gates leading up Mount Inari, this Shinto shrine offers a magical experience. Walking through the pathways lined with these gates provides an unforgettable and serene experience. Next, we'll delve into the world of samurai and ninja at the Samurai and Ninja Museum in Kyoto. Interactive exhibits and demonstrations reveal the fascinating history and skills of these legendary warriors, giving us a hands-on understanding of Japan's martial heritage. Then, we travel to Nara to visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues globally. Adjacent to the temple, Nara Park offers a chance to interact with friendly deer in a picturesque setting, providing a peaceful and memorable encounter with nature. We'll explore Naramachi, Nara's old merchant district, where traditional machiya townhouses line the narrow streets. This area provides a glimpse into Edo period life with its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration. Finally, we head to Osaka to enjoy the vibrant street food scene in Dotonbori. This bustling district is renowned for its neon lights, energetic atmosphere, and delicious local delicacies, offering a lively and flavorful end to our day. |
Day 10 Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan Breakfast 03/30/2024 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.
|
Start | Twin Share | Note | |||
$4653 |
$5603 |
Guaranteed Departure |
Quo Rsv |
Tour Goods Package
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 03/21/2024 |
Day 1 Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel 03/21/2024
Narita Int'l Airport (NRT)
or
Haneda Int'l Airport (HND)
|
Arrival Transfer
|
Check in to a hotel
|
Purchase
Optional Travel Insurance
Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour app for more information.
Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo or similar |
Day 2 03/22/2024 |
Day 2 Tokyo | Enjoy the day free at your Leisure 03/22/2024 Breakfast
We have cleared up the day for you to explore and enjoy Japan as you wish. During this time, you can also:
Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo or similar |
Day 3 03/23/2024 |
Day 3 Tokyo | The Powerful Thunder Gate of Asakusa 03/23/2024 Breakfast Lunch
Tsukiji Fish Market
|
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
|
Shibuya Hachiko
|
Experience the Flavors of Japan
|
[
Asakusa
]
Sensoji Temple
|
teamLab Planets TOKYO
|
Convenience Store (JDT Recommends)
|
Return to the hotel
Our journey begins with a visit to Tsukiji, where we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo's renowned fish market. Here, we'll marvel at the array of fresh seafood and culinary delights on offer, experiencing firsthand the hustle and bustle of this iconic destination. Next, we'll venture to Shibuya Crossing and pay homage to Hachiko, the loyal Akita dog whose statue stands as a symbol of unwavering loyalty. Amidst the sea of pedestrians, we'll soak in the energy of one of the world's busiest intersections, capturing the essence of Tokyo's dynamic urban landscape. For lunch, we'll indulge in a seasonal dining experience, savoring the flavors of Japan's rich culinary heritage. From delicate sushi to savory tempura, each dish will tantalize our taste buds and showcase the finest ingredients of the season. Afterward, we'll explore the historic district of Asakusa and wander through Nakamise, a bustling shopping street lined with traditional shops and stalls. Here, we'll sample local snacks and browse for souvenirs, soaking in the timeless charm of old Tokyo. To conclude our day, we'll venture to TeamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum where art, technology, and nature converge to create breathtaking installations. As we wander through this mesmerizing space, we'll be transported to otherworldly realms, experiencing art in a whole new dimension.
Tobu Hotel Levant Tokyo or similar |
Day 4 03/24/2024 |
Day 4 Tokyo & Nagano | Cherry Blossoms along Traditional Japanese Art 03/24/2024 Breakfast Lunch
[
Lake Kawaguchi
]
Itchiku Kubota Art Museum
|
Hōtō (Lunch)
|
[
Nagano Prefecture
]
Matsumoto Castle
|
Check in to a hotel
Our Takayama Cherry Blossom 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.
IROHA GRAND HOTEL Matsumoto Ekimae or similar |
Day 5 03/25/2024 |
Day 5 Nakasendo & Takayama | Exploring Historic Trails and Timeless Towns 03/25/2024 Breakfast
[
Gifu Prefecture
]
Magome
|
Tsumago
|
[
Takayama
]
Takayama Old Town
|
Takayama Yatai Kaikan
|
Hida Wagyu
(JDT Recommend) | Beef Bun (JDT Recommends) | Check in to a hotel Today, our Takayama Cherry Blossom 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. Our Japan tour will finally reach Takayama. We will head to the Takayama Yatai Kaikan, a museum dedicated to the city’s famous festival floats. While the Takayama Festival itself is not taking place, you will still have the opportunity to witness the craftsmanship and beauty of these intricate floats up close. The Yatai Kaikan displays several festival floats year-round, beautifully adorned with detailed carvings, metalwork, and vibrant colors, illuminating the cultural and artistic heritage of Takayama. This visit provides a unique glimpse into the local traditions and the historical significance of the festival floats.
Takayama Green Hotel or similar |
Day 6 03/26/2024 |
Day 6 Takayama, Shirakawago & Kanazawa | Exploring "Little Kyoto" 03/26/2024 Breakfast
Takayama Morning Market
|
Takayama Old Town
|
Shirakawago
|
Nagase House
|
Gohei-mochi (JDT Recommends)
|
[
Kanazawa
]
Check in to a hotel
|
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.
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa or similar |
Day 7 03/27/2024 |
Day 7 Kanazawa | Kanazawa's Cultural Tapestry : Gardens, Tea Houses & Samurai Legacy 03/27/2024 Breakfast
Kenrokuen Garden
|
Higashi Chaya District
|
Kutani Porcelin (JDT Recommends)
|
Ohmicho Ichiba
|
Nomura Samurai House
|
[
Kyoto Prefecture
]
Check into a hotel |
Kyoto Station Light Show
We'll start our exploration of Kanazawa at the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens. This spot is particularly famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring, making it a perfect place for seasonal viewing. Stroll through meticulously maintained grounds that showcase not only seasonal flowers but also elegant water features, providing a perfect introduction to traditional Japanese garden aesthetics. Next, we'll visit the Higashi Chaya District, an enchanting neighborhood known for its well-preserved tea houses where geisha once entertained. It's the ideal place to immerse yourself in the atmospheric beauty of old Kanazawa. Here, you’ll also find shops selling Kutaniyaki ceramics, famous for their intricate designs and vivid colors. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy sweets and souvenirs adorned with Kanazawa’s renowned gold leaf—a testament to the city’s rich artisanal heritage. Our tour continues at the vibrant Omicho Market, where locals have come for fresh produce and seafood since the Edo period. This bustling marketplace is also a great spot to sample local delicacies like fresh sushi and sea urchin. Be sure to try some regional specialties at the food stalls that dot the market. The final stop of the day is the Nomura Samurai House, a historic residence that gives a glimpse into the life of a samurai family. The house features beautiful architecture, a small but elegant traditional garden, and a collection of artifacts that depict the lifestyle of the samurai era.
Hotel Emion Kyoto or similar |
Day 8 03/28/2024 |
Day 8 Kyoto | Dine with Japan's Next Generation of Geisha Artisans 03/28/2024 Breakfast Dinner
[
Kyoto Prefecture
]
Arashiyama
|
Jin-riki-sha Ride
|
Golden Pavilion
|
Tea Ceremony
|
Maiko Dining Experience
|
Check into a hotel
|
Yatsuhashi (JDT Recommends)
|
Omamori
(JDT Recommends) | Dango (JDT Recommends) | Our journey begins with a delightful rickshaw ride through Arashiyama, where we'll be captivated by the towering bamboo groves and the tranquil ambiance of this historic district. This serene setting offers a perfect start to our adventure, providing a glimpse into traditional Japanese beauty. Next, we visit the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf. Set amidst meticulously maintained gardens and reflective ponds, Kinkaku-ji stands as a testament to Kyoto's rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. We'll then wander through Ninenzaka's picturesque streets, lined with traditional machiya townhouses. As we stroll through this charming area, we'll soak in the timeless atmosphere of old Kyoto, admiring the well-preserved wooden buildings and quaint shops that evoke the spirit of Japan's historical past. Our cultural journey continues with a traditional tea ceremony, where we'll learn the art of matcha preparation from a skilled tea master. This experience offers a serene and meditative insight into the ancient ritual, allowing us to appreciate the intricate beauty of Japanese tea culture. To conclude our day, we'll enjoy a memorable dining experience featuring Kyoto cuisine. During dinner, we'll have the opportunity to meet Maiko, apprentice geisha, who will offer us a unique taste of traditional entertainment and hospitality. This immersive experience provides a captivating end to our day, blending exquisite food with cultural enrichment.
Hotel Emion Kyoto or similar |
Day 9 03/29/2024 |
Day 9 Kyoto, Nara & Osaka | Meet & Greet the friendly Deer of Nara 03/29/2024 Breakfast Lunch
[
Kyoto Prefecture
]
Fushimi Inari Shrine
|
Inari Sushi
(JDT Recommends) | KYOTO SAMURAI and NINJA MUSEUM | [ Nara Prefecture ] Naramachi | Todaiji Temple | Deer Park | Check into a hotel : | Dotonbori | Shinsaibashi | Takoyaki (JDT Recommends) | Kushiage (JDT Recommend) Our journey begins in Kyoto with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. Renowned for its thousands of vibrant torii gates leading up Mount Inari, this Shinto shrine offers a magical experience. Walking through the pathways lined with these gates provides an unforgettable and serene experience. Next, we'll delve into the world of samurai and ninja at the Samurai and Ninja Museum in Kyoto. Interactive exhibits and demonstrations reveal the fascinating history and skills of these legendary warriors, giving us a hands-on understanding of Japan's martial heritage. Then, we travel to Nara to visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues globally. Adjacent to the temple, Nara Park offers a chance to interact with friendly deer in a picturesque setting, providing a peaceful and memorable encounter with nature. We'll explore Naramachi, Nara's old merchant district, where traditional machiya townhouses line the narrow streets. This area provides a glimpse into Edo period life with its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration. Finally, we head to Osaka to enjoy the vibrant street food scene in Dotonbori. This bustling district is renowned for its neon lights, energetic atmosphere, and delicious local delicacies, offering a lively and flavorful end to our day.
Onyado Nono Namba Natural Hot Spring or similar |
Day 10 03/30/2024 |
Day 10 Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan 03/30/2024 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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All small-group journeys are guaranteed to operate with just 6 guests.