Enchanting Japan Discovery Urban to Untamed

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo, you will be greeted and guided through customs procedures, after which you'll be transferred to your hotel via a shared shuttle bus. You'll have the remainder of the day to yourself, allowing you to unwind and explore the vibrant city or simply relax after your journey. Later in the day, we'll provide you with all necessary information about the beginning of your tour. Enjoy your first taste of Japan at your own pace. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On the second day, we’ll immerse ourselves in the vibrant city of Tokyo with a five-hour guided tour. Our adventure begins at Zojoji Temple, offering a splendid view of the Tokyo Tower. Here, you’ll find the grounds adorned with numerous Jizo statues, intricately carved stone figures dressed in colourful attire, believed to protect children. We’ll then navigate the bustling streets of Shibuya, home to the world-renowned Shibuya Crossing, before visiting the serene Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Our journey continues by bus along the sophisticated Omotesando Avenue as we head to the Imperial Palace gardens, pausing to admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.As we advance, we’ll traverse the lively Akihabara district, famous for its manga and anime culture, and pass by the Kokugikan arena, known for sumo wrestling. Our final stop is Asakusa, where we’ll visit the historic Sensoji Temple and explore the bustling Nakamise Street. Lunch awaits at a local restaurant before we return to our hotel.In the evening, at 6:30 p.m., we’ll meet in the hotel lobby to head to the vibrant district of Shinjuku via the metro, tickets included. Here, we’ll meander through the animated streets renowned for their nightlife, concluding our day with dinner at a local restaurant. Afterwards, we’ll make our way back to the hotel, accompanied by our guide.

Today, we'll embark on an exhilarating journey towards the magnificent Mount Fuji area, traversing breathtaking scenery en route. Our first port of call is the Arakurayama Sengen Park, renowned for its stunning pagodas and offering one of the most iconic vistas of Mount Fuji. We'll then make our way to the charming town of Kawaguchiko, nestled amidst majestic mountains and vibrant flora, with its picturesque lake lending its name to the town. Upon arrival, we'll explore the tranquil Fuji Sengen Shrine, enveloped by towering trees, and steeped in history as the traditional starting point for pilgrimages up the sacred mountain. Here, we'll pause to reflect and appreciate the serenity of this enchanting place.Our adventure continues with a delightful boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, giving us ample opportunity to absorb the area's peaceful beauty. Subsequently, we'll ascend Mount Fuji via a scenic road to the Fifth Station, situated at 2,305 metres above sea level, where we'll be surrounded by awe-inspiring forests and panoramic views. Please note, during winter the ascent may be curtailed due to snow or adverse weather, and we will journey as far as conditions allow.Returning to Kawaguchiko, you'll have free time to leisurely wander along the lakeside. This evening, we'll retreat to the comfort of a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you can unwind in the soothing onsen (public bath). A dinner will be served, adding to your authentic Japanese experience. Please be aware that the ryokan rooms may feature traditional tatami mats, though some may also offer Western-style accommodation. Occasionally, a Western-style hotel might be substituted for the planned ryokan stay.

This morning, we journey along a scenic road flanked by picturesque lakes to reach Iyashi no Sato Nenba. This charming village was devastated by a typhoon in 1966 and has been transformed into an open-air museum. Its traditional homes have found new life as arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural displays, offering a fascinating insight into Japanese history and culture. Our next destination is the spectacular Shiraito Falls, one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural sights, where a cascade of water gracefully tumbles down a 20-metre-high cliff. We continue our adventure with a visit to Nagoya’s renowned Toyota Museum, where car enthusiasts and the curious alike can indulge in the world of automotive innovation with included admission. Finally, we conclude our day by travelling to Kyoto for an overnight stay, ready to explore more of this captivating region.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the historical and cultural richness of Kyoto, Japan's capital from 794 to 1868. Remarkably, it was one of few major cities to remain untouched during World War II, preserving its extraordinary artistic heritage. Kyoto is also renowned for hosting the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, a landmark agreement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.Our exploration will take us to some of Kyoto’s most iconic sites. We begin in Arashiyama, where the Togetsukyo Bridge, or "Bridge over the Moon," offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. From here, we visit Tenryuji Temple, recognised as one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A peaceful walk through its mystical bamboo forest follows.Our journey continues to the impressive Fushimi Inari Shrine, and later to the Imperial Palace. We'll also visit Kinkakuji Temple, famously known as the "Golden Pavilion," surrounded by exquisite gardens. Please note the order of these visits may vary.In the late afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore Gion, Kyoto’s traditional district, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and the graceful presence of geishas.

Following breakfast, our journey takes us alongside one of Japan's largest lakes. Our first visit is to the Shirahige Ginra shrine, which sits serenely by the lake. Next, we head to Eihei-ji, an influential temple-monastery founded in 1244 and a pivotal site for Zen Buddhism in Japan, where your entry is included. Its exquisite architecture, tranquil gardens, and spiritual environment form a significant training centre for monks engaged in Zazen meditation and adhering to a disciplined daily routine. In Katsuyama, we explore three notable sites, starting with the Dinosaur Museum, located on Japan's largest dinosaur fossil site. Here, you'll have free time to enjoy lunch and explore its fascinating displays, which include more than 40 dinosaur skeletons. Continuing our journey, we visit the monumental Great Buddha of Echizen and its impressive temple, featuring a five-storey pagoda that offers panoramic views if you choose to climb to the top. We conclude the day in Kanazawa, arriving by evening, where you'll have time to settle in before tomorrow's adventures.

We spend an enriching day in Kanazawa, beginning with a guided tour of this city, once on par with Kyoto and Tokyo, that remained unscathed during the World War II air raids. Our exploration starts at the historical castle area, where we admire the grandiose castle walls. We then take a leisurely walk through the Nagamachi district, where samurai families once resided. This charming neighbourhood retains much of its old-world charm, with preserved residences, traditional earthen walls, quaint narrow alleys, and gentle water canals. Our itinerary includes a visit to Kenrokuen Garden, acclaimed as one of Japan's top three gardens, where serene beauty meets meticulous design. Our tour wraps up at the bustling Omicho Market, a traditional market bustling with life and tantalising options for lunch. The afternoon is yours, allowing you to delve deeper into the city's offerings at your own pace.

Today, we embark on a scenic drive through breathtaking mountain landscapes and picturesque forests as we explore the Gokayama and Shirakawa-go regions. These enchanting villages, recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are famed for their traditional houses with steeply pitched roofs—aptly named "praying hands." This unique architectural design helps the structures endure the heavy snowfalls of winter. Our first stop is Ainokura, a quaint village where you can enjoy a leisurely walk before we continue to the larger and more renowned Shirakawa-go Ogimachi village. You'll have the opportunity to wander through these idyllic areas and enjoy some lunch.Our journey then takes us to Takayama, where we'll visit the Hida Folk Village Museum. Nestled in a serene setting, this open-air museum features over 30 traditional houses dating back to the Edo Period (1603-1868). These structures, relocated from their original locations, display various tools and utensils that offer a glimpse into everyday life in historical Japan. After exploring the museum, you'll have free time to discover the charming old town, known for its wooden houses and quaint traditional shops.

Following breakfast, we set off to discover Hida Furukawa. Strolling through this charming town, you'll discover its festival has been recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, celebrated for its grand drums and ornately decorated floats. We will include a visit to the museum, where you'll marvel at the intricacy of the floats, costumes, and drums on display. Our journey continues across the famed Japanese Alps, known for their snow-capped peaks that endure much of the year. Upon reaching Matsumoto, we will explore its renowned "Crow Castle," distinguished by its striking black exterior and origins in the 16th century. After this cultural immersion, enjoy some free time to explore the city and have lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, we'll make our way to Nagano, where we will settle in for the night, ready for more adventures in this captivating country.

Today, we begin our exploration in Nagano with a visit to the revered Zenko-ji Temple, known for housing the first Buddhist image introduced to Japan. Here, we’ll partake in the Gomakuyo ceremony, which is believed to bestow blessings and good fortune. Our next adventure takes us through the picturesque Japanese Alps to the enchanting Jigokudani Monkey Park. Enjoy lunch in this natural wonderland before taking a leisurely walk through lush forests and over shimmering rivers, where you’ll encounter Japanese macaques bathing in the hot springs.As we ascend, we’ll be treated to spectacular high-mountain vistas, reaching up to 2,172 metres and passing by semi-active volcanoes. Our journey continues to Kusatsu, a delightful spa town renowned for its vibrant main square. We'll enjoy a pleasant stroll through the town park, which features an open-air onsen. Our day concludes in Ikaho, a charming spa town celebrated for its historic centre with stepped streets. Tonight, you’ll relish the experience of staying in a traditional ryokan, where a delicious Japanese dinner is included, allowing you to unwind in the soothing baths.Please note that in autumn, the movement of the monkeys can vary based on the availability of mountain fruit, and the park may be closed if the macaques do not descend. Additionally, during inclement weather from November to April, the visit to Kusatsu may be cancelled.

We continue our journey to Nikko, a captivating town where we'll visit the magnificent Nikko-Toshogu Temple, renowned for its unique acoustic phenomenon in the "Room of the Dragon." We will also explore the peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a tranquil site that invites reflection. Afterward, we'll enjoy a leisurely walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where rows of Jizo statues stand guard over the river. You will then have some free time to explore the town centre at your own pace. Our travels continue to Sendai, a vibrant and modern city with a population exceeding one million. In Sendai, you'll have the opportunity to discover the lively streets and enjoy dinner in the bustling city centre.

Departing bright and early from Sendai, our day begins with a trip to Matsushima. Known as the "Thousand Islands" Bay, Matsushima is famed for its enchanting beauty. Here, we’ll visit a splendid tea house with a sweeping sea view and indulge in a cup of traditional tea, while our guide provides insightful commentary about the locale. Following this, we embark on a picturesque 50-minute cruise, complete with lunch aboard, allowing us to fully appreciate the scenic splendour of the area.The journey continues to Hiraizumi, where history comes alive amidst its ancient temples. Our first stop is Takkoku no Iwaya, an extraordinary temple carved into the rock face in the early 9th century, a testament to the area's historical significance. We will then visit the renowned Buddhist temples of Chusonji, savouring a tranquil moment in Motsuji Temple’s peaceful gardens, where travellers can take part in a Zen ceremony (entry included).As the day draws to a close, we head to Morioka, the charming capital of Iwate Province. Upon arrival, you will have some leisure time to unwind and explore this delightful city before settling into our hotel for the night. Enjoy the opportunity to discover local flavours or simply relax after an enriching day of exploration.

Today, we journey through breathtaking landscapes to Hirosaki, where we will explore the renowned Hirosaki Castle. Set in a picturesque park, this castle is renowned for its stunning spring display, when over 2,500 cherry trees burst into bloom. Our travels then take us to Aomori, a vibrant city located on Mutsu Bay. Here, we'll visit the Nebuta Museum to delve into Japan’s lively festival traditions, known for their stunning, illuminated floats that resemble carnival displays. We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on a scenic ferry crossing of just over three and a half hours to reach the island of Hokkaido. Upon our arrival in Hakodate, we’ll wander the charming historic district, where we can appreciate the traces of diverse cultural influences, including a visit to the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian places of worship.

In the morning, we start our day with a visit to Hakodate’s lively fish market, a vibrant hub offering a fascinating insight into local life and culture. We then ascend Goryokaku Tower to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the city, allowing us to appreciate the impressive star-shaped design of Hakodate's historic fortress. You will have some free time to explore around the castle area before we continue our adventure to Onuma.Onuma offers a stunning natural setting, scattered with numerous small islands. You’ll have free time here to enjoy a boat ride on the lovely waters or take a leisurely walk along the scenic trails that weave through this tranquil environment. Lunch will be provided at a charming local restaurant.In the afternoon, we drive along the picturesque coastline to reach Noboribetsu, renowned for its extraordinary volcanic landscape. We'll explore the steam vents of Jigokudani, known as Hell Valley, take in the atmospheric misty waters of Lake Oyunuma, and follow the trail along the hot spring river to a picturesque location where you can soak your feet in a relaxing natural foot bath.Later, we proceed to Sapporo, arriving in the evening at this engaging northern capital of Japan, ready to embrace its unique charm and energy.

On our Sapporo city tour, we'll visit the iconic Clock Tower and stroll through Odori Koen, a beautiful park-lined avenue beneath the towering Sapporo TV Tower. Our journey will take us to the captivating Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we’ll partake in a traditional Kito ceremony, expressing gratitude for our journey.Venturing to the outskirts of Sapporo, we'll explore the Hill of Buddha, an impressive example of modern architecture featuring a massive Buddha statue surrounded by lavender. You'll also find replicas of the Easter Island Moai statues within the complex.Next, we’ll head to Otaru, a charming town with a European vibe. Discover its lively shopping streets, historic canal, and quaint museums. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. We'll return to Sapporo around 3:30 p.m., and the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish.

In the morning, after enjoying breakfast, our adventure concludes, marking the end of an incredible journey through Japan. We hope you depart with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the remarkable experiences we've shared. Safe travels!