Itinerary
Fukuoka, Japan
Welcome to the island of Kyushu, Japan. Enjoy your welcome reception at your luxury hotel in the centre of the city.
Fukuoka, Japan
Begin your exploration of Fukuoka with stops at the Shofukuji Temple, Japan’s first Zen Temple, Kushida Shrine and Hakata Machiya Folk Museum. This museum shows the old daily life and culture of Fukuoka city in Meiji and Taisho period, focusing especially on urban houses of that period.
Scenic Freechoice:
This afternoon, choose from one of these Freechoice options.
Cruise the canals: Drive to Yanagawa, dubbed the ‘Venice of Kyushu’ for its 930km of canals. Cruise along the tranquil waterways, learning about the town’s history and culture, and stop at Yanagawa Ohana, the villa of the Tachibana family who ruled the town from 1600-1868.
Old & new Fukuoka: Visit the 234m tall Fukuoka Tower, the tallest seaside tower in Japan, with a 360-degree observation deck. Then explore the Edo Period ruins of Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park.
This evening head down to Fukuoka’s open air food stalls (Yatai) to help you choose your own meal of Yakitori, Oden or Hakata Ramen dinner.
Hiroshima, Japan
History buffs will want to write home Hiroshima. Despite being devastated in 1945, this Japanese city is known to all for its commitment peace – its ruin on the 6th August 1945 led to the end of the war and today, the Peace Memorial (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) , is a constant reminder of the destruction that war brings. A walk in the leafy boulevards of Peace Memorial Park brings quiet contemplation. The Flames of Peace – set in the park’s central feature pond – burn brightly and will continue to do so until all the nuclear bombs I the world have been destroyed. There are many other inspiring messages of hope around the city too; the Children’s’ Peace Monument just north of the park is a homage to little Sadako Sasaki, who was just two in 1945. When she developed leukemia in 1956, she believed that if she folded 1,000 paper cranes – a symbol of longevity and happiness in Japan – she would recover. Sadly she died before she finished her task but her classmates finished the rest. It is impossible to ignore the events of 1945 in Hiroshima, but this is far from a depressing place. The great efforts that have been made in rebuilding of the city over the years have given Hiroshima a vibrant, eclectic edge, with the downtown shopping area and street food stalls being well worth a visit. The proximity to Miyajima and its iconic, impressive, Torii gate should not be overlooked either. If you are lucky enough to visit during the unpredictable and short-lived Sakura (cherry blossom) season, then the extraordinary sight of the delicate pink blossom floating across the water to the red gate, means you can consider yourself one of the luckiest people on the planet.
Itsukushima, Japan
The small island of Miyajima (“The Shrine Island”) is known for the Floating Torii Gate, which is one of “The Three Most Beautiful Views” of Japan. Built in the water, the Torii Gate leads to the Itsukushima Shrine and at high tide it seems to float. The Torii Gate is one of the most photographed sites in all of Japan. There are many more shrines and paths on Miyajima that are inviting to walk. Mount Misen has a cable car leading partly up to the top with nice views and wild monkeys and deer roaming the trails.
Osaka, Japan
From Minami’s neon-lighted Dotombori and historic Tenno-ji to the high-rise class and underground shopping labyrinths of Kita, Osaka is a city that pulses with its own unique rhythm. Though Osaka has no shortage of tourist sites, it is the city itself that is the greatest attraction. Home to some of Japan’s best food, most unique fashions, and warmest locals, Osaka does not beg to be explored—it demands it. More than anywhere else in Japan, it rewards the impulsive turn down an interesting side street or the chat with a random stranger. People do not come here to see the city, they come to experience it.Excluded from the formal circles of power and aristocratic culture in 16th-century Edo (Tokyo), Osaka took advantage of its position as Japan’s trading center, developing its own art forms such as Bunraku puppet theater and Rakugo comic storytelling. It was in Osaka that feudal Japan’s famed Floating World—the dining, theater, and pleasure district—was at its strongest and most inventive. Wealthy merchants and common laborers alike squandered fortunes on culinary delights, turning Osaka into “Japan’s Kitchen,” a moniker the city still has today. Though the city suffered a blow when the Meiji government canceled all of the samurai class’s outstanding debts to the merchants, it was quick to recover. At the turn of the 20th century, it had become Japan’s largest and most prosperous city, a center of commerce and manufacturing.Today Osaka remains Japan’s iconoclastic metropolis, refusing to fit Tokyo’s norms and expectations. Unlike the hordes of Tokyo, Osakans are fiercely independent. As a contrast to the neon and concrete surroundings, the people of Osaka are known as Japan’s friendliest and most outgoing. Ask someone on the street for directions in Tokyo and you are lucky to get so much as a glance. Ask someone in Osaka and you get a conversation.The main areas of the city, Kita (north) and Minami (south), are divided by two rivers: the Dojima-gawa and the Tosabori-gawa. Between Kita and Minami is Naka-no-shima, an island and the municipal center of Osaka. Kita (north of Chuo Dori) is Osaka’s economic hub and contains Osaka’s largest stations: JR Osaka and Hankyu Umeda. The area is crammed with shops, department stores, and restaurants. Nearby are a nightlife district, Kita-shinchi; Naka-no-shima and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics; Osaka-jo (Osaka Castle); and Osaka Koen (Osaka Park). Restaurants, bars, department stores, and boutiques attract Osaka’s youth to Minami (south Chuo Dori); theatergoers head to the National Bunraku Theatre and electronics-lovers to Den Den Town. For a glimpse of old Osaka, visit Tenno-ji Temple and Shin Sekai. The main stations are Namba, Shin-sai-bashi, Namba Nankai, and Tenno-ji. There’s easy access to the Municipal Museum of Fine Art and Sumiyoshi Taisha (Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine).The bay area, to the west of the city center, is home to the Osaka Aquarium and Universal Studios Japan. The Shinkansen stops at Shin-Osaka, three stops (about five minutes) north of Osaka Station on the Mido-suji subway line. To the north of Shin-Osaka is Senri Expo Park.
Osaka, Japan
From Minami’s neon-lighted Dotombori and historic Tenno-ji to the high-rise class and underground shopping labyrinths of Kita, Osaka is a city that pulses with its own unique rhythm. Though Osaka has no shortage of tourist sites, it is the city itself that is the greatest attraction. Home to some of Japan’s best food, most unique fashions, and warmest locals, Osaka does not beg to be explored—it demands it. More than anywhere else in Japan, it rewards the impulsive turn down an interesting side street or the chat with a random stranger. People do not come here to see the city, they come to experience it.Excluded from the formal circles of power and aristocratic culture in 16th-century Edo (Tokyo), Osaka took advantage of its position as Japan’s trading center, developing its own art forms such as Bunraku puppet theater and Rakugo comic storytelling. It was in Osaka that feudal Japan’s famed Floating World—the dining, theater, and pleasure district—was at its strongest and most inventive. Wealthy merchants and common laborers alike squandered fortunes on culinary delights, turning Osaka into “Japan’s Kitchen,” a moniker the city still has today. Though the city suffered a blow when the Meiji government canceled all of the samurai class’s outstanding debts to the merchants, it was quick to recover. At the turn of the 20th century, it had become Japan’s largest and most prosperous city, a center of commerce and manufacturing.Today Osaka remains Japan’s iconoclastic metropolis, refusing to fit Tokyo’s norms and expectations. Unlike the hordes of Tokyo, Osakans are fiercely independent. As a contrast to the neon and concrete surroundings, the people of Osaka are known as Japan’s friendliest and most outgoing. Ask someone on the street for directions in Tokyo and you are lucky to get so much as a glance. Ask someone in Osaka and you get a conversation.The main areas of the city, Kita (north) and Minami (south), are divided by two rivers: the Dojima-gawa and the Tosabori-gawa. Between Kita and Minami is Naka-no-shima, an island and the municipal center of Osaka. Kita (north of Chuo Dori) is Osaka’s economic hub and contains Osaka’s largest stations: JR Osaka and Hankyu Umeda. The area is crammed with shops, department stores, and restaurants. Nearby are a nightlife district, Kita-shinchi; Naka-no-shima and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics; Osaka-jo (Osaka Castle); and Osaka Koen (Osaka Park). Restaurants, bars, department stores, and boutiques attract Osaka’s youth to Minami (south Chuo Dori); theatergoers head to the National Bunraku Theatre and electronics-lovers to Den Den Town. For a glimpse of old Osaka, visit Tenno-ji Temple and Shin Sekai. The main stations are Namba, Shin-sai-bashi, Namba Nankai, and Tenno-ji. There’s easy access to the Municipal Museum of Fine Art and Sumiyoshi Taisha (Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine).The bay area, to the west of the city center, is home to the Osaka Aquarium and Universal Studios Japan. The Shinkansen stops at Shin-Osaka, three stops (about five minutes) north of Osaka Station on the Mido-suji subway line. To the north of Shin-Osaka is Senri Expo Park.
Nara City, Japan
Drive to the ancient village of Asuka, the birthplace of the Japanese state and cradle of Japanese culture. Wander through the beautiful Inabuchi terraced rice paddy fields; see the ancient Tobiishi stone bridge, famous in Japanese folklore; and visit Ishibutai Tumulus, a seventh century tomb that’s largest known megalithic structure in Japan.
Scenic Enrich
Learn about the history, life and training routine of a sumo wrestler during a private visit to a Sumo Museum in Kehayaza, said to be the birthplace of sumo. After your welcome ceremony, see a demonstration of Jinku (traditional folkloric songs) and watch the wrestlers in action in the dohyo.
Continue to Japan’s first permanent capital established in the year 710 as Heijo, the city now known as Nara. Spend the night in Nara.
Fukuoka, Japan
Welcome to the island of Kyushu, Japan. Enjoy your welcome reception at your luxury hotel in the centre of the city.
Fukuoka, Japan
Begin your exploration of Fukuoka with stops at the Shofukuji Temple, Japan’s first Zen Temple, Kushida Shrine and Hakata Machiya Folk Museum. This museum shows the old daily life and culture of Fukuoka city in Meiji and Taisho period, focusing especially on urban houses of that period.
Scenic Freechoice:
This afternoon, choose from one of these Freechoice options.
Cruise the canals: Drive to Yanagawa, dubbed the ‘Venice of Kyushu’ for its 930km of canals. Cruise along the tranquil waterways, learning about the town’s history and culture, and stop at Yanagawa Ohana, the villa of the Tachibana family who ruled the town from 1600-1868.
Old & new Fukuoka: Visit the 234m tall Fukuoka Tower, the tallest seaside tower in Japan, with a 360-degree observation deck. Then explore the Edo Period ruins of Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park.
This evening head down to Fukuoka’s open air food stalls (Yatai) to help you choose your own meal of Yakitori, Oden or Hakata Ramen dinner.
Hiroshima, Japan
History buffs will want to write home Hiroshima. Despite being devastated in 1945, this Japanese city is known to all for its commitment peace – its ruin on the 6th August 1945 led to the end of the war and today, the Peace Memorial (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) , is a constant reminder of the destruction that war brings. A walk in the leafy boulevards of Peace Memorial Park brings quiet contemplation. The Flames of Peace – set in the park’s central feature pond – burn brightly and will continue to do so until all the nuclear bombs I the world have been destroyed. There are many other inspiring messages of hope around the city too; the Children’s’ Peace Monument just north of the park is a homage to little Sadako Sasaki, who was just two in 1945. When she developed leukemia in 1956, she believed that if she folded 1,000 paper cranes – a symbol of longevity and happiness in Japan – she would recover. Sadly she died before she finished her task but her classmates finished the rest. It is impossible to ignore the events of 1945 in Hiroshima, but this is far from a depressing place. The great efforts that have been made in rebuilding of the city over the years have given Hiroshima a vibrant, eclectic edge, with the downtown shopping area and street food stalls being well worth a visit. The proximity to Miyajima and its iconic, impressive, Torii gate should not be overlooked either. If you are lucky enough to visit during the unpredictable and short-lived Sakura (cherry blossom) season, then the extraordinary sight of the delicate pink blossom floating across the water to the red gate, means you can consider yourself one of the luckiest people on the planet.
Itsukushima, Japan
The small island of Miyajima (“The Shrine Island”) is known for the Floating Torii Gate, which is one of “The Three Most Beautiful Views” of Japan. Built in the water, the Torii Gate leads to the Itsukushima Shrine and at high tide it seems to float. The Torii Gate is one of the most photographed sites in all of Japan. There are many more shrines and paths on Miyajima that are inviting to walk. Mount Misen has a cable car leading partly up to the top with nice views and wild monkeys and deer roaming the trails.
Osaka, Japan
From Minami’s neon-lighted Dotombori and historic Tenno-ji to the high-rise class and underground shopping labyrinths of Kita, Osaka is a city that pulses with its own unique rhythm. Though Osaka has no shortage of tourist sites, it is the city itself that is the greatest attraction. Home to some of Japan’s best food, most unique fashions, and warmest locals, Osaka does not beg to be explored—it demands it. More than anywhere else in Japan, it rewards the impulsive turn down an interesting side street or the chat with a random stranger. People do not come here to see the city, they come to experience it.Excluded from the formal circles of power and aristocratic culture in 16th-century Edo (Tokyo), Osaka took advantage of its position as Japan’s trading center, developing its own art forms such as Bunraku puppet theater and Rakugo comic storytelling. It was in Osaka that feudal Japan’s famed Floating World—the dining, theater, and pleasure district—was at its strongest and most inventive. Wealthy merchants and common laborers alike squandered fortunes on culinary delights, turning Osaka into “Japan’s Kitchen,” a moniker the city still has today. Though the city suffered a blow when the Meiji government canceled all of the samurai class’s outstanding debts to the merchants, it was quick to recover. At the turn of the 20th century, it had become Japan’s largest and most prosperous city, a center of commerce and manufacturing.Today Osaka remains Japan’s iconoclastic metropolis, refusing to fit Tokyo’s norms and expectations. Unlike the hordes of Tokyo, Osakans are fiercely independent. As a contrast to the neon and concrete surroundings, the people of Osaka are known as Japan’s friendliest and most outgoing. Ask someone on the street for directions in Tokyo and you are lucky to get so much as a glance. Ask someone in Osaka and you get a conversation.The main areas of the city, Kita (north) and Minami (south), are divided by two rivers: the Dojima-gawa and the Tosabori-gawa. Between Kita and Minami is Naka-no-shima, an island and the municipal center of Osaka. Kita (north of Chuo Dori) is Osaka’s economic hub and contains Osaka’s largest stations: JR Osaka and Hankyu Umeda. The area is crammed with shops, department stores, and restaurants. Nearby are a nightlife district, Kita-shinchi; Naka-no-shima and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics; Osaka-jo (Osaka Castle); and Osaka Koen (Osaka Park). Restaurants, bars, department stores, and boutiques attract Osaka’s youth to Minami (south Chuo Dori); theatergoers head to the National Bunraku Theatre and electronics-lovers to Den Den Town. For a glimpse of old Osaka, visit Tenno-ji Temple and Shin Sekai. The main stations are Namba, Shin-sai-bashi, Namba Nankai, and Tenno-ji. There’s easy access to the Municipal Museum of Fine Art and Sumiyoshi Taisha (Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine).The bay area, to the west of the city center, is home to the Osaka Aquarium and Universal Studios Japan. The Shinkansen stops at Shin-Osaka, three stops (about five minutes) north of Osaka Station on the Mido-suji subway line. To the north of Shin-Osaka is Senri Expo Park.
Osaka, Japan
From Minami’s neon-lighted Dotombori and historic Tenno-ji to the high-rise class and underground shopping labyrinths of Kita, Osaka is a city that pulses with its own unique rhythm. Though Osaka has no shortage of tourist sites, it is the city itself that is the greatest attraction. Home to some of Japan’s best food, most unique fashions, and warmest locals, Osaka does not beg to be explored—it demands it. More than anywhere else in Japan, it rewards the impulsive turn down an interesting side street or the chat with a random stranger. People do not come here to see the city, they come to experience it.Excluded from the formal circles of power and aristocratic culture in 16th-century Edo (Tokyo), Osaka took advantage of its position as Japan’s trading center, developing its own art forms such as Bunraku puppet theater and Rakugo comic storytelling. It was in Osaka that feudal Japan’s famed Floating World—the dining, theater, and pleasure district—was at its strongest and most inventive. Wealthy merchants and common laborers alike squandered fortunes on culinary delights, turning Osaka into “Japan’s Kitchen,” a moniker the city still has today. Though the city suffered a blow when the Meiji government canceled all of the samurai class’s outstanding debts to the merchants, it was quick to recover. At the turn of the 20th century, it had become Japan’s largest and most prosperous city, a center of commerce and manufacturing.Today Osaka remains Japan’s iconoclastic metropolis, refusing to fit Tokyo’s norms and expectations. Unlike the hordes of Tokyo, Osakans are fiercely independent. As a contrast to the neon and concrete surroundings, the people of Osaka are known as Japan’s friendliest and most outgoing. Ask someone on the street for directions in Tokyo and you are lucky to get so much as a glance. Ask someone in Osaka and you get a conversation.The main areas of the city, Kita (north) and Minami (south), are divided by two rivers: the Dojima-gawa and the Tosabori-gawa. Between Kita and Minami is Naka-no-shima, an island and the municipal center of Osaka. Kita (north of Chuo Dori) is Osaka’s economic hub and contains Osaka’s largest stations: JR Osaka and Hankyu Umeda. The area is crammed with shops, department stores, and restaurants. Nearby are a nightlife district, Kita-shinchi; Naka-no-shima and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics; Osaka-jo (Osaka Castle); and Osaka Koen (Osaka Park). Restaurants, bars, department stores, and boutiques attract Osaka’s youth to Minami (south Chuo Dori); theatergoers head to the National Bunraku Theatre and electronics-lovers to Den Den Town. For a glimpse of old Osaka, visit Tenno-ji Temple and Shin Sekai. The main stations are Namba, Shin-sai-bashi, Namba Nankai, and Tenno-ji. There’s easy access to the Municipal Museum of Fine Art and Sumiyoshi Taisha (Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine).The bay area, to the west of the city center, is home to the Osaka Aquarium and Universal Studios Japan. The Shinkansen stops at Shin-Osaka, three stops (about five minutes) north of Osaka Station on the Mido-suji subway line. To the north of Shin-Osaka is Senri Expo Park.
Nara City, Japan
Drive to the ancient village of Asuka, the birthplace of the Japanese state and cradle of Japanese culture. Wander through the beautiful Inabuchi terraced rice paddy fields; see the ancient Tobiishi stone bridge, famous in Japanese folklore; and visit Ishibutai Tumulus, a seventh century tomb that’s largest known megalithic structure in Japan.
Scenic Enrich
Learn about the history, life and training routine of a sumo wrestler during a private visit to a Sumo Museum in Kehayaza, said to be the birthplace of sumo. After your welcome ceremony, see a demonstration of Jinku (traditional folkloric songs) and watch the wrestlers in action in the dohyo.
Continue to Japan’s first permanent capital established in the year 710 as Heijo, the city now known as Nara. Spend the night in Nara.
Kyoto, Japan
This morning, visit Todaiji Temple, one of the World Heritage-listed Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara. Constructed in 752, it was the largest wooden building in the world until the end of the 20th century and houses one of Japan’s largest statues, a 15-metre tall bronze Buddha.
See the curious deer in Nara Park, then wander the gardens around the famous Kinkaku-ji or Golden Pavilion, so named because it is completely covered in gold leaf.
Begin your memorable three-night stay in Kyoto.
Ryokan Upgrade: For a unique insight into Japanese culture, choose to stay tonight in a Ryokan (at additional cost, must be pre-booked before departure). This traditional Japanese Inn has tatami mat flooring with futon beds, sliding shoji paper doors, Tatami flooring, private facilities, and includes dinner and breakfast.
Kyoto, Japan
This morning, explore the captivating city of Kyoto, a place where old Japan is still alive.
Scenic Freechoice:
Go deeper into the city on one of these Freechoice excursions:
Historic Districts of Kyoto: Be immersed in the atmosphere of Kyoto’s ancient preservation districts, seven historic areas that preserve cultural traditions and traditional architecture.
Samurai and Ninja Museum: Enjoy a guided tour learning about the history of samurai and ninja through legendary stories and historical insights. Experience life as a Samurai, wearing authentic Samurai armor and holding a sword and learn how to throw ninja stars.
Scenic Enrich
Partake in a Japanese tea ceremony while dressed in a traditional Japanese kimono, a great photo opportunity.
This afternoon, enjoy some free time in Nishiki Market. Known as ‘Kyoto’s kitchen’ it is one of the best traditional markets in the city and home to over 100 stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and tofu to pickled vegetables and sweets, as well as hot food and souvenirs.
Scenic Enrich
At tonight’s special dinner, you will be able to interact with a Geiko and Maiko as they host your meal. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about what is involved in becoming a Geisha and the art of Japanese hospitality.
Kyoto, Japan
Begin the day with a visit Nijo castle, built in 1603 as the residence of Tokugawa leyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. Later, glide through the otherworldly Arashiyama Bamboo Grove by traditional rickshaw before enjoying a vegetarian meal at the World Heritage listed Tenryu-ji Temple. Later, return to Kyoto and visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its corridor of thousands of vermilion torii gates that appeared in the film ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’. Stop at a sake brewery to taste and learn about Japan’s most famous tipple.
Scenic Freechoice Dining: Enjoy the option of dining with a mix of Kyoto cuisine and French dishes, alternatively try Japanese Shabu Shabu.
Fuji Five Lakes, Japan
Travel by Shinakansen to Hakone. After lunch study the art works and sculptures at the Chokokuno Mori (Hakone Open Air Museum). Afterwards drive to the Fuji Five Lakes district, known locally as Fujigoko, located beneath Mt Fuji. Soak in the views from your hotel for the night.
Tokyo, Japan
Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it.
Tokyo, Japan
Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it.
Tokyo, Japan
Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it.
Kyoto, Japan
This morning, visit Todaiji Temple, one of the World Heritage-listed Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara. Constructed in 752, it was the largest wooden building in the world until the end of the 20th century and houses one of Japan’s largest statues, a 15-metre tall bronze Buddha.
See the curious deer in Nara Park, then wander the gardens around the famous Kinkaku-ji or Golden Pavilion, so named because it is completely covered in gold leaf.
Begin your memorable three-night stay in Kyoto.
Ryokan Upgrade: For a unique insight into Japanese culture, choose to stay tonight in a Ryokan (at additional cost, must be pre-booked before departure). This traditional Japanese Inn has tatami mat flooring with futon beds, sliding shoji paper doors, Tatami flooring, private facilities, and includes dinner and breakfast.
Kyoto, Japan
This morning, explore the captivating city of Kyoto, a place where old Japan is still alive.
Scenic Freechoice:
Go deeper into the city on one of these Freechoice excursions:
Historic Districts of Kyoto: Be immersed in the atmosphere of Kyoto’s ancient preservation districts, seven historic areas that preserve cultural traditions and traditional architecture.
Samurai and Ninja Museum: Enjoy a guided tour learning about the history of samurai and ninja through legendary stories and historical insights. Experience life as a Samurai, wearing authentic Samurai armor and holding a sword and learn how to throw ninja stars.
Scenic Enrich
Partake in a Japanese tea ceremony while dressed in a traditional Japanese kimono, a great photo opportunity.
This afternoon, enjoy some free time in Nishiki Market. Known as ‘Kyoto’s kitchen’ it is one of the best traditional markets in the city and home to over 100 stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and tofu to pickled vegetables and sweets, as well as hot food and souvenirs.
Scenic Enrich
At tonight’s special dinner, you will be able to interact with a Geiko and Maiko as they host your meal. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about what is involved in becoming a Geisha and the art of Japanese hospitality.
Kyoto, Japan
Begin the day with a visit Nijo castle, built in 1603 as the residence of Tokugawa leyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. Later, glide through the otherworldly Arashiyama Bamboo Grove by traditional rickshaw before enjoying a vegetarian meal at the World Heritage listed Tenryu-ji Temple. Later, return to Kyoto and visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its corridor of thousands of vermilion torii gates that appeared in the film ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’. Stop at a sake brewery to taste and learn about Japan’s most famous tipple.
Scenic Freechoice Dining: Enjoy the option of dining with a mix of Kyoto cuisine and French dishes, alternatively try Japanese Shabu Shabu.
Fuji Five Lakes, Japan
Travel by Shinakansen to Hakone. After lunch study the art works and sculptures at the Chokokuno Mori (Hakone Open Air Museum). Afterwards drive to the Fuji Five Lakes district, known locally as Fujigoko, located beneath Mt Fuji. Soak in the views from your hotel for the night.
Tokyo, Japan
Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it.
Tokyo, Japan
Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it.
Tokyo, Japan
Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it.
Tokyo, Japan
Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it.
Tokyo, Japan
Lights, sushi, manga! Sprawling, frenetic, and endlessly fascinating, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts. Shrines and gardens are pockets of calm between famously crowded streets and soaring office buildings. Mom-and-pop noodle houses share street space with Western-style chain restaurants and exquisite fine dining. Shopping yields lovely folk arts as well as the newest electronics. And nightlife kicks off with karaoke or sake and continues with techno clubs and more. Whether you seek the traditional or the cutting edge, Tokyo will provide it.