TASTE OF JAPAN

Highlights | Sample Itinerary

Highlights

7 DAYS
TASTE OF JAPAN

Invigorate your senses with the essence of Japan! Diving into Kyoto's ancient charm, exploring Nijo Castle, Zen gardens, and golden pavilions. Stroll Higashiyama's quaint alleys, then choose an optional day trip to Nara's playful deer, Hiroshima's poignant history, or Osaka's vibrant streets. Escape to Izu Peninsula's hot springs and Mt. Fuji views, then soak up the culture in Kamakura's temples and Yokohama's fire ceremonies. Finally, Tokyo awaits with optional Sumo practice, Edo walks, and mouthwatering Chankonabe. This diverse itinerary blends serene beauty with urban thrills, promising an unforgettable taste of Japan.
 
****This tour doesn't include Seat-In-Coach (SIC) tour(s). 
 


Sample Itinerary

DAY 1: KYOTO ARRIVAL
Meet your assistant at airport and transfer to your hotel. Relax at the hotel before walking out for dinner at Japanese-style restaurants nearby.

DAY 2: KYOTO
We start with the sprawling, breathtaking Nijo Castle, followed by Ryoanji - the UNESCO World Heritage zen temple with a famous rock garden. This unique garden has no plants, apart from little patches of moss around the stones. Afterward, visit Kinkakuji, the shining pavilion completely covered by gold leaf originally built as a shogun's summer house.
In the afternoon, stroll through Higashiyama District, which invokes a feeling of the ancient capital city. Begin with Kiyomizudera, one of Japan's most sacred temples. Marvel at this temple's unique architecture of the main hall, built without the usage of any joiners. Higashiyama's quaint alleyways are lined with small shops, cafes, and restaurants that have catered to tourists and pilgrims for centuries.

DAY 3: KYOTO - NARA (OPTIONAL)
Today will be at your leisure. Enjoy another day wandering Kyoto's mesmerizing streets, or venture onward for a day trip to either Nara, Hiroshima or Osaka.
Travel a short distance to Nara and meet the semi-wild deer at Nara Park, admire the structure of Todaiji Temple, Kasuga-Taisha Shrine. Or travel a bit further to visit the charming city of Hiroshima, and wander around the Peace Park reflecting on the turbulent mid-century events. Another option is visiting Japan's fun-filled city Osaka, a city renowned for its gastronomic delights and friendly residents.

DAY 4: IZU PENINSULA
Today we will leave the frenzy of the city behind and embark on the Shinkansen to Shimizu, and then an hour-long ferry to Toi – a small resort town of Izu. Mt. Fuji is visible from the ferry on clear day crossings. The resort town is renowned for hot springs, beaches, the historical gold and silver mine, and the world's largest flower clock.
In Toi, many hotels onsens have spectacular views of Suruga Bay, unusual rock formations, and Mt. Fuji. We, therefore, recommend travelers have a soak at those hot spring baths even if they are not planning to spend the night. Later on, enjoy a warmhearted dinner at your accommodation.

DAY 5: KAMAKURA - YOKOHAMA - TOKYO
After an early breakfast, we will depart for the travel to the Japanese capital – Tokyo. We will visit Kamakura – the ancient city that has developed itself, with its original culture – en route to the capital.
Kamakura is a coastal town in Kanagawa Prefecture. Once a great fortress town thanks to the surrounding mountains and open sea, Kamakura is now a flourishing city bursting with quaint shopping streets, stunning temples, and peaceful shrines together with the famous Great Buddha and Hasedera Temple.
Continue your journey to Yokohama, a major city with a unique and attractive townscape. Enjoy the local lunch before visiting the temple where we can watch the fire ceremony, a unique ritual in the local custom. Followed by a visit to Kirin Beer Factory to witness the production of Japan's arguably the most famous beer brand.
Our final stop is Tokyo. Enjoy the night at your leisure.

DAY 6: TOKYO
Today will be enjoyed freely. We offer an optional tour to visit Sumo Practice Watch in the morning.  Edo Walking Tour with Guide is also on the table if you are interested. Don't know what you should have for lunch? A genuine Chankonabe (Hot Pot) in an ex-sumo wrestler is a perfect option for you!
Enjoy your farewell dinner on a boat by the river.

DAY 7: TOKYO DEPARTURE
Today you will transfer to Narita airport and board your flight home.

 

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