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Classic Cultural Japan

15 days

Uncover Japan's classic highlights on this 2-week escorted tour from Tokyo. See Senso-ji and the lovely Hamarikyu Gardens, explore ancient Kyoto and enjoy tea with a trainee geisha. Take in the highlights of Kanazawa, stay in a traditional ryokan and stay in the hot spring town of Kinosaki Onsen. Discover the lesser-visited Kyotango Peninsula, see the Peace Park Memorial in Hiroshima and explore charming Miyajima Island. Admire Himeji Castle, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji in Hakone, and end your journey back in Tokyo.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

15 days

Starts

Tokyo

Ends

Tokyo

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Yes - escorted by a tour leader

Group Size

Min 4 / Max 14

Minimum age

6 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Wednesdays

Hotel Rating

4-star hotels

Countries

Japan

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Meals included

Breakfast: 14, Lunch: 6, Dinner: 6
Per Person From
CAD$14,955.00
Deposit From
Final payment
CAD$8,973.00
$20,937.00

Tour Highlights

Tokyo - See highlights including Senso-ji and the pretty Hamarikyu Gardens with guided sightseeing
Kanazawa - Uncover highlights of this well-preserved ancient town, including the famous Kenrokuen garden
Kyoto - Enjoy guided sightseeing with a local guide in this ancient city, and enjoy tea with a trainee geisha
Kinosaki Onsen - Stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan with free time to unwind in one (or all seven) of the mystic onsen
Kyotango Peninsula - Admire the stunning scenery of this lesser-visited area, and visit a traditional swordsmith
Himeji - See this UNESCO-listed feudal castle, one of Japan's most impressive landmarks
Hiroshima - Pay your respects at the memorials to the atomic bomb, and take the ferry to charming Miyajima island
Hakone - Marvel at majestic Mount Fuji and visit the outstanding Hakone Open-Air Museum, plus enjoy plenty of free time

Included

14 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners
12 nights 4 star hotels, 2 night ryokan stay in Kinosaki Onsen
Escorted by a tour leader
Private arrival transfer on day 1 and private departure transfer on day 15
All relevant transportation and transfers including by minibus, coach and train
IC transport card with 2,500 yen (YSD $16) credit for city transport
Full-day private guide service in Kanazawa, Kyoto & Kyotango Peninsula
Entrance to Hamarikyu Gardens
Afternoon tea with a maiko (trainee geisha)
'Kaiseki' dinner at Kinosaki Onsen ryokan
Meet the local artisans of the Kyotango Peninsula
See the impressive land-bridge over the Miyazu Bay
2-day Hakone Free Pass
Entrance to Hakone Open-Air Museum
Luggage forwarding from Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Hiroshima and Hiroshima back to Tokyo
Information pack on arrival
Shared portable Wi-Fi access throughout trip

Not Included

International flights
Any local transport (subways, taxis, buses) unless covered by the included transport passes
Entrance fees (including those for temples, shrines and museums) unless otherwise specified
Baggage handling and luggage forwarding unless otherwise specified

Itinerary

Days 1-2 - Terrific Tokyo

Welcome to Tokyo, the capital of Japan and the most populous city in the world. You will be greeted by a driver and taken to our hotel in the lively Ginza district by private taxi. Our tour leader will be waiting to welcome you in the lobby.

After settling in, join the group for an orientation meeting followed by a delicious first-night meal at a local restaurant, providing a taste of Japanese cuisine and dining customs.

Day 2 starts with a relaxing walk through the picturesque Hamarikyu Gardens, offering a serene escape from the urban landscape. The afternoon will be filled with visits to historic sites such as Senso-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and Meiji Jingu, the revered Shinto shrine in the heart of the city.

Accommodation: Gate Hotel Tokyo or similar

Overnight: Tokyo (2)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Days 3-4 - Exploring Kanazawa

Tokyo - Kanazawa. Departing Tokyo on the morning of day 3, we board the bullet train to Kanazawa on the Japan Sea Coast. Unlike many cities in Japan, Kanazawa was fortunate to avoid bombing during World War II, allowing it to maintain a rich collection of religious sites and cultural assets. Renowned for its exceptional seafood, you can indulge in a delicious optional sushi or fish meal with our tour leader this evening.

On day 4 we will be accompanied by a local guide and our tour leader for an in-depth exploration of Kanazawa's finest attractions. Highlights include the historic geisha district of Higashi Chaya, the samurai quarter with its preserved houses, a gold leaf workshop showcasing traditional craftsmanship, and the famous Kenrokuen garden, regarded as one of Japan's top three gardens. Ample time will be provided to fully appreciate the beauty of Kenrokuen. If you still have energy after the tour, consider visiting the local market or the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

Accommodation: Hyatt Centric Kanazawa or similar

Overnight: Kanazawa (2)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch

Days 5-7 - Ancient Kyoto

Kanazawa - Kyoto. With over a thousand years as the imperial capital, Kyoto boasts 17 World Heritage Sites, along with numerous shrines, temples, and gardens. We arrive in Kyoto on day 5 after a scenic train ride along Lake Biwa, and we begin our exploration aty lesser-known attractions such as the Nishiki Food Market and Kyoto station complex. Later, experience traditional Japanese culture in Gion, the hub of geisha culture, with a tea ceremony performed by a maiko (trainee geisha).

On day 6, a local Kyoto expert will guide us on a private coach tour to must-see spots like Arashiyama, Ryoanji Rock Garden, and either the Golden Pavilion of Kinkakuji or the Silver Pavilion of Ginkakuji. With our guide's help, we explore both famous landmarks and hidden gems. Day 7 is at leisure in the city. You can choose between further Kyoto exploration or a day trip to destinations like Nara, known for its giant Buddha and friendly deer. Our tour leader can assist with planning.

Accommodation: Hotel Higashiyama or similar

Overnight: Kyoto (3)
Meals: Breakfast x3, Lunch

Days 8-9 - Kinosaki Onsen, ryokan stay & Kyotango Peninsula

Kyoto - Kinosaki Onsen. Enjoy a relaxing morning on day 8, before we board a train to Kinosaki Onsen, known for its seven mystical hot springs. Many visitors seek to bathe in all seven to experience the healing properties of the sacred waters. After exploring the charming town in the afternoon, indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner at our ryokan accommodation.

The next day, a private coach will take us to the Kyotango Peninsula, where we will encounter stunning landscapes and local artisans. Visit a swordsmith specializing in katana and an artisan skilled in weaving mother-of-pearl into intricate kimono designs. Following lunch, admire Amanohashidate, considered one of Japan's top three scenic views. The sandbar stretches across Miyazu Bay, resembling a "staircase to heaven." We'll have the opportunity to cross the bay by boat, foot, or bicycle before returning to the ryokan for dinner via private bus.

Accommodation: Nishimuraya Shogetsutei or similar

Overnight: Kinosaki Onsen (2) (ryokan)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch x2, Dinner x2

Days 10-11 - Himeji Castle, Hiroshima & Miyajima

Kinosaki Onsen - Himeji - Hirtoshima. Departing on day 10, we embark on a private coach journey to Himeji to marvel at the World Heritage castle, a well-preserved feudal structure. Following this, we board the bullet train to Hiroshima, where the Peace Memorial Park and Museum stand as powerful reminders of the events of August 6, 1945.

On day 11, we explore the Peace Memorial Museum before taking a boat trip from the Peace Park to Miyajima, an island on the Seto Inland Sea. Apart from its famous World Heritage Shrine and "floating" torii gate, Miyajima offers a charming town centre and the chance to interact with the local deer population.

Accommodation: Hilton Hiroshima or similar

Overnight: Hiroshima (2)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch, Dinner

Days 12-13 - Hakone & Mount Fuji

Hiroshima - Hakone. We board the bullet train and head east to Hakone, a picturesque national park near Tokyo. Visit the exceptional Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing masterpieces by artists such as Moore and Rodin against a backdrop of majestic mountains. A high-quality dinner is included in the tour tonight.

Day 13 is free to discover all that Hakone has to offer. Sail across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, try a black egg boiled in volcanic hot spring water, ride a cable car up the mountainside, and luxuriate in the area's renowned hot spring baths. Hakone is also renowned for its unrivalled views of Mount Fuji, offering a chance for breathtaking views of Japan's most famous natural landmark.

Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Hakone or similar

Overnight: Hakone (2)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch, Dinner

Days 14-15 - Return to Tokyo

Hakone - Tokyo. On day 14, we embark on a final train journey back to Tokyo. Spend your time in the capital exploring Shinjuku, known for its vibrant shopping and entertainment scene. Take in the sights at Shinjuku Gyoen Park or do some last-minute shopping at one of the district's department stores, it's up to you! In the evening, enjoy an included final-night meal with your tour leader and group at one of the city's superb restaurants.

The following morning, bid farewell to Japan as you are transported to the airport in a private car for your journey home.

Accommodation: Century Southern Tower or similar

Overnight: Tokyo (1)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Dinner

Prices & Dates

All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2025
Twin
Single
10 Mar - 24 Mar
$15,815
$19,005
12 Mar - 26 Mar
$15,815
$19,005
17 Mar - 31 Mar
$15,815
$19,005
19 Mar - 2 Apr
$15,815
$19,005
24 Mar - 7 Apr
Sold Out
Sold Out
26 Mar - 9 Apr
$15,815
$19,005
31 Mar - 14 Apr
$15,815
$19,005
2 Apr - 16 Apr
$15,815
$19,005

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