The Wonders of Japan

Arrive in Tokyo and discover the wonders of Japan! After clearing customs, our friendly staff will greet you and escort you to your hotel via shuttle bus. Later, at 6:30 PM, meet your tour guide at the hotel reception and get acquainted with your fellow travelers. Embark on a captivating nighttime stroll through the vibrant streets of Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's most iconic districts. Enjoy a warm welcome dinner at a local restaurant, and return to your hotel with your guide.

Our guided tour includes a 5-hour visit to this vibrant city, showcasing its frenetic activity, ultramodern neighborhoods, and peaceful areas. We'll make a brief stop at Zojoji Temple for a stunning view of Tokyo Tower, surrounded by hundreds of Jizo statues, stone deities protecting children, adorned with wool hats, bibs, and windmills. Next, we'll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, said to be the busiest intersection in the world. Then, we'll visit the Meiji Temple, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. We'll continue our tour by bus along the elegant Omotesando Street, passing by the beautiful Imperial Palace and gardens. We'll stop at the iconic Nijubashi Bridge and explore Akihabara, Tokyo's "Electric Town" and hub for manga and anime. We'll also pass by the Kokugikan, a sumo stadium, showcasing Japan's traditional sport. Our tour will conclude in Asakusa, where we'll visit Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. After the tour, you'll have a free afternoon to explore Tokyo on your own.

Journey to Mount Fuji We'll travel to the beautiful area around Mount Fuji, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. Our first stop will be Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its pagodas and panoramic views of Mount Fuji. Next, we'll head to Kawaguchiko, a picturesque town with quaint houses, flowers, and mountains surrounding its lovely lake. We'll visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a magical spot where pilgrims traditionally began their journey to Mount Fuji. We'll give thanks at the shrine for the opportunity to visit this special place. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko. Then, we'll drive up to the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji, situated at an altitude of 2,305 metres, with breathtaking views and stunning forests. (Please note that the route may be closed during winter due to snow or other weather conditions.) We'll return to Kawaguchiko and have some free time to stroll around the lake. We'll stay overnight at a traditional Japanese Ryokan, where we can relax in the onsen (public bath). Dinner is included. Please note: The Ryokan may have both Japanese-style rooms (tatami mats) and Western-style rooms, and on occasion, accommodation may be provided in a Western-style hotel.

Morning Departure We'll follow a scenic road that winds around lakes and visit Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a small village that was destroyed by a typhoon in 1966 and later rebuilt as an open-air museum showcasing traditional mountain village life. The village's historic homes have been transformed into craft shops, restaurants, and museums. Next, we'll admire the stunning Shiraito Falls, considered one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls, with its 20-metre drop. We'll then head to the Nagoya region and visit the Toyota Museum, a must-see for car enthusiasts. Afterwards, we'll continue to Kyoto, where we'll arrive and check into our accommodation.

Kyoto: City of Cultural Heritage We'll spend the day exploring Kyoto, Japan's former capital city from 794 to 1868, which was home to the Imperial Court. Unlike other major Japanese cities, Kyoto was spared from bombing during World War II, preserving its rich artistic heritage. Notably, the city hosted the signing of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, an international agreement aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Our guided tour will take in the city's main highlights, including: Arashiyama: We'll cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, meaning "bridge that crosses the moon", offering breathtaking views. Tenryu-ji Temple: One of Kyoto's five major Zen temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we'll stroll through its serene gardens and mystical bamboo forest. Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, this Shinto shrine is a marvel of Japanese architecture. Kyoto Imperial Palace: The former residence of the emperor, this palace is a testament to Japan's imperial history. Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion): We'll admire the stunning gardens and architecture of this iconic temple. After our tour, we'll have some free time to explore Gion, Kyoto's traditional district famous for its geisha culture. Activities included: Guided tour of Kyoto's main attractions Visit to Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Kinkaku-ji Temple Free time to explore Gion district Note: The order of the attractions may be subject to change.

Day Trip to Nara and Osaka We'll depart for Nara, visiting the magnificent Todaiji Temple, a Buddhist temple built in 752. The temple is home to a giant Buddha statue and is also famous for its friendly deer that roam the grounds, allowing visitors to feed and pet them. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. Next, we'll visit Horyu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples. The temple complex includes a seminary, monasteries, and temples, with its main pagoda being one of the oldest surviving wooden buildings in the world. In the afternoon, we'll arrive in Osaka, Japan's second-largest city. We'll take a stroll through Dotonbori, a vibrant district known for its neon lights and lively atmosphere at night.

Himeji and Okayama We'll head to Himeji, where we'll visit the impressive Himeji Castle, a stunning example of Japanese castle architecture. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. Next, we'll continue to Okayama, where we'll explore Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, featuring lakes, waterfalls, and traditional tea houses. We'll then visit the Kibitsu Shrine, a unique Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, which is said to be the origin of the legendary story of Momotaro, a symbol of Okayama Prefecture. The shrine boasts an impressive 360-meter-long corridor. After our visit, we'll check into our accommodation and enjoy some free time in the city, the vibrant provincial capital with a population of just over 700,000.

Kurashiki and Hiroshima We'll visit Kurashiki, a charming town with a well-preserved historic centre. You'll have time to stroll through the picturesque streets and soak up the nostalgic atmosphere. Next, we'll head to Hiroshima, a city sadly known for the atomic bombing it suffered in 1945, which devastated the city. We'll take a somber walk through the Peace Memorial Park, visit the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, and explore the thought-provoking Peace Memorial Museum. After reflecting on the past, we'll seek peace and tranquility on a ferry ride to Miyajima Island, also known as the "Island of Gods". We'll visit the stunning Itsukushima Shrine, dedicated to the guardian of the seas, which appears to be floating on the water. You'll have time to explore the shrine, stroll through the charming town, and enjoy lunch. We'll return to our hotel in Hiroshima, where dinner is included. Activities included: Visit to Kurashiki's historic centre Visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum Ferry ride to Miyajima Island Visit to Itsukushima Shrine Lunch on Miyajima Island Dinner in Hiroshima Note: The order of the visits in Hiroshima may vary without affecting the content.

Shikoku Island Adventure Today, we'll take a ferry to Shikoku Island, enjoying a leisurely 2.5-hour journey. This scenic trip will give us a glimpse into Japan's island landscape. In Matsuyama, we'll ride the ropeway to the top of the hill, where the impressive Matsuyama Castle awaits. We'll then visit Ishite-ji Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple and sacred pilgrimage site. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the late afternoon, we'll unwind at Dogo Onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring bathhouse built in the 19th century. This relaxing experience is a perfect way to rejuvenate.

Kotohira and Takamatsu We'll head to Kotohira, home to a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of sailors. The shrine is situated on Mount Zozu and requires a climb of 785 steps to reach. Next, we'll visit Takamatsu, where we'll explore Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In Naruto, we'll marvel at the impressive Naruto Bridge, which spans the sea and offers breathtaking views. We'll walk on the bridge's glass floor, suspended 45 meters above the sea, and witness the stunning whirlpools below. As we drive, we'll take in the stunning scenery, crossing large bridges between islands over the sea. We'll arrive in Kobe and check into our accommodation.

Kobe and Koya-san In Kobe, we'll visit the Kobe Earthquake Museum, a memorial to the devastating earthquake that struck the city in 1995 and its subsequent reconstruction. Please note: On some dates, the visit may be replaced with the Sake Museum or a trip to the top of Kobe Tower. Next, we'll head to Osaka and then journey to Koya-san, a sacred mountain and the centre of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. This mountain is a place of pilgrimage and spiritual significance, home to 120 temples and monasteries. We'll visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a vast cemetery in nature with over 200,000 graves, and the Kongobuji Temple, built in 1593. We'll stay overnight in a Buddhist monastery, where we'll participate in a Zen meditation practice (Ajikan) led by the monks. Vegetarian dinner is included. If you'd like, you can join the early morning temple ceremony. Please note: The monastery accommodation is a unique experience, with simple, traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and shared bathrooms.

Free Day in Kyoto We'll start the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple. Then, we'll head to Kyoto, where you'll have the entire day free to explore the city at your own pace. Our guide will provide you with information and recommendations, so you can make the most of your time and visit the places that interest you most in this beautiful city.

Tsumago and Matsumoto We'll travel through beautiful rural landscapes to Tsumago, a charming wooden village and one of Japan's most picturesque towns. You'll have free time to stroll through the village and soak up its atmosphere. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. Next, we'll head to Matsumoto, a popular tourist city, where we'll visit the impressive Matsumoto Castle, a 16th-century castle also known as the "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior. We'll then continue to Nagano, where we'll check into our accommodation.

Nagano and the Japanese Alps In Nagano, we'll visit Zenko-ji Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site housing Japan's first Buddhist statue. We'll participate in the Gomakuyo ceremony, a ritual to attract good fortune. Next, we'll venture into the stunning Japanese Alps, where we'll visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to a colony of Japanese macaques that bathe in hot springs. Lunch is included, and we'll stroll through the park's beautiful forests and rivers. As we drive through the high mountains, we'll reach altitudes of up to 2,172 meters, passing semi-active volcanoes and enjoying breathtaking scenery. In Kusatsu, a charming hot spring town, we'll watch the Yumomi performance, a traditional show that showcases the local method of cooling hot spring water. We'll also take a stroll through the town's park, which features outdoor hot springs. We'll then head to Ikaho, a picturesque hot spring town, where we'll explore the old town's streets and stairs. We'll stay in a traditional Ryokan, a Japanese-style hotel, where we recommend enjoying the hot spring baths. Traditional Japanese dinner is included. Please note: The visit to Kusatsu and the Yumomi performance may be cancelled due to weather conditions from November to April. The Jigokudani Monkey Park may also be closed if the monkeys don't descend to the park due to lack of food.