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On this exclusive 11-day program across Japan, we journey from cutting-edge Tokyo to the pleasures of nature and a celebrated Japanese inn in the shadow of Mount Fuji at Hakone, explore the traditional life of the Japanese farmer in Takayama, and end— as we must — in splendid Kyoto, the Japan of our imagination. “The charm of Kyoto works slowly and imperceptibly,” wrote Italian photographer Fosco Maraini, “finally emerging as one of the most enchanting places in the world.”
Depart the USA on any regularly scheduled flight to Tokyo (NRT), Japan.
Below the surface of glittering, ultra-modern Tokyo is a city with ancient roots, where Shinto shrines, gardens and Buddhist temples stand close to skyscrapers. At the heart of the hyperactive city center lies the serene Imperial Palace, the home of the ruling emperor that provides a tangible link to the city’s historical past. On arrival at Narita Airport, you will be met in the arrival hall by and assisted with the included shared transfer to your hotel (80 – 145 minutes). Upon arrival, check in. Your tour leader will be at the hotel and will be in touch with you.
Today, you will enjoy a full day Tokyo city tour. The Imperial Palace Plaza is a functional palace where the emperor and his family reside. Much of the palace grounds – including the palace itself – are closed to the public and secluded behind, old trees and Edo Period moats. The Imperial East Garden is the only part of the Imperial Palace complex that is open to the public. Entry is through the Ote-mon Gate, which was once the principal gate of the city of Edo, the former name of Tokyo. The garden lies at what was the heart of the old Edo castle. From the gardens there are views of central Tokyo.
Enjoy the day for personal exploration of parts of Tokyo that interest you. We will offer an optional trip to the Tsukiji Fish Market, followed by a sushi making workshop. Or you may want to visit one of the many excellent museums in the city, such as the National Museum or Edo- Tokyo Museum, or just wander the exciting streets of Tokyo and take in this mega-metropolis.
Today, you will enjoy a full day Mt. Fuji & Hakone Park tour.
We will prepare our large suitcases to be transferred to Kyoto and pack an overnight bag for our trip to Takayama. This morning, you will be transferred to the Odawara Station for our bullet train to Nagoya.
Today, you will enjoy a full day Takayama tour. Begin with a visit to the morning market for a chance to sample and the variety of fresh vegetables of Takayama.
This morning, transfer to Takayama Station for our train to Nagoya. Takayama/Nagoya on first class limited express train “Wideview-Hida#6” (0938/1202). Arrive Nagoya, connect with our onward Bullet Train to Kyoto.
This morning, we visit the Nijo Castle, which was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu (founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate) in 1603 as his personal residence in Kyoto. It has been a venue of various important historical events. It was here that Ieyasu and his rival Hideyori Toyotomi held talks. In addition, in 1867 the fifteenth Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu announced his resolution to return administrative power to the Imperial Household from the castle. The castle grounds include the main compound and a magnificent Ninomaru Palace with its beautiful Momoyama style architecture.
Today we journey to Nara, a fitting comparison to Kyoto and capital of Japan during the 8th century, visiting the remarkable collection of UNESCO-designated temples, including Kasuga Taisha, lined with thousands of stone and bronze lanterns.
Your day is free until your included shared transfer to Kansai International Airport in Osaka (KIX). (60-90 minutes).
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