Heritage & Culture
Nature & Landscapes
Wine & Food
International Arrival
Shared Transfer from Narita Airport to Tokyo Hotel (including airport assistance)
3 Nights
Included activities
For a day well spent, visit some of Tokyo’s best known landmarks with your local expert! Begin with a trip to the Asakusa locality, well-known for its “shitamachi” or old-world vibe. You can visit the Sensoji temple, a Buddhist temple believed to be Tokyo’s oldest. Adjacent to the temple you will find the Nakamise “dori” or street, where you can taste some traditional snacks if you like. Travel across town to Omotesando and after exploring the ritzy flagship stores and spectacular architecture on the main boulevard. Next, make your last stop at the famous Meiji shrine, dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Meiji. Surrounded by a forested area with 365 species of trees, the shrine is also a popular wedding venue, so don’t be surprised if you come across a bride and groom all dressed up for their big day! (Half Day; 0900 or 1400 hrs; Private Activity; Transfers by public transport; Fitness Level: Moderate)
Discover spectacular natural beauty in the mountainous town of Hakone. Reach Hakone with your guide, and explore the old town – Moto Hakone – along lake Ashi. Taste local delicacies in Ashinoko Chaya, stroll along the cedar tree-lined Kyukaido (Ancient Highway) or visit the Hakone-jinja shrine or the museum – depending on your interests. Relish lunch before you board a cruise boat to sail across the lake. Take in stunning views of the snow-capped Mount Fuji if the weather is clear. Glide up from the lake to Mount Komagatake on the Komagatake Ropeway admiring Mount Fuji. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the lake, Hakone, and Mount Fuji. Head down the ropeway, board the cruise back to Moto Hakone and catch a train back to Tokyo. (Full Day; Please note that you can use public transport – bullet train / Romancecar depending on hotel location and local buses in Hakone. Your pick-up and drop-off point will be your hotel.)
Hotel options
Shared Transfer from Tokyo Hotel to Haneda Airport (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
Flight from Tokyo (Haneda) to Sapporo (New Chitose)
Shared Transfer from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Hotel (including airport assistance)
3 Nights
Included activities
See the highlights of Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, during this half day tour. At the scheduled time, meet your guide and travel by the subway and local buses to popular landmarks. Start with a visit to either Sapporo Beer Museum or Shiroi Koibito Park. The Sapporo Beer Museum chronicles the history of beer in Japan and offers insight into the process of beer-making. While here, you can also enjoy a sampling session. At Shiroi Koibito Park theme park, learn about the iconic white chocolate cookies that are synonymous with Hokkaido and the techniques used to make this delicious sweet treat. There is also a miniature train and landscaped gardens on the premises. Later, stop by the 19th-century Clock Tower made of wood, believed to be the oldest in the country. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the sprawling Odori Park, the venue for the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, before winding up the tour at Nijo Market. This lively market is packed with restaurants and food stalls where you could treat yourself to a meal before heading back to your hotel. (Duration: half day; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: easy)
Hotel options
Shared transfer from Sapporo Hotel to Shin Chitose Airport (including airport assistance)
Board your flight from Sapporo (New Chitose) to Osaka (Kansai) (Duration: 2 hrs)
Shared Transfer from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Hotel (including airport assistance)
3 Nights
Included activities
Explore the famous shrines of Kyoto, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. At the scheduled time, meet your guide and travel by public transport to the attractions on your itinerary. Begin with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple, a Zen shrine known for its stunning gold leaf-covered façade. Overlooking a large pond and surrounded by lush vegetation, this temple makes for a picturesque sight. Next, stop by Ryoanji Temple, which is home to one of the most famous Zen rock gardens in the country. There is a pond, a network of walking trails, and a restaurant on the grounds. You will then visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, built to appease a vengeful spirit. Located in the Kamishichiken district, the oldest geisha neighborhood of the city, this temple is popular with students. (Duration: 4 hrs; Time: 0900 or 1300 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: moderate, please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Please wear comfortable walking shoes)
Wake up early and enjoy a peaceful hike through the Kitayama mountains in northern Kyoto. Arriving at Kurama, pass by a bright red statue of Tengu, and the two small waterfalls nearby. Ascend the beautiful, forested staircase trail flanked by vermillion-colored lamp posts. Expect to see numerous shrines, paper lanterns, statues of mythical figures, and a couple of conceptual installations along the way. After entering the wooden gate of Yuki-jinja shrine, encounter a lofty pine tree, make a wish at the main hall, and continue further. Take a breather at the plaza in front of Kurama-dera temple. Minutes later, you’ll walk past a bell tower and a museum before reaching the summit. After a short break, head further downhill on a trail covered in tree roots. As you traverse the atmospheric trail, occasionally spot deer amid the cedar trees. Reaching the bottom of the hill, cross a small bridge over Kibune-gawa river and explore the quaint village of Kibune. (Half Day; Time of the day: 0900 hrs, Duration: 4 hrs, Public transport in local trains and buses; Fitness level: Moderate; Please note that this activity is not available during December – March.)
Hotel options
Private transfer from your hotel to Kyoto train station (including assistance from your hotel until you board your train)
Shinkansen Train from Kyoto to Okayama (Duration: 1 hr, Standard Class)
Make your own way from the Okayama train station to your hotel
2 Nights
Included activities
Discover the feudal history of Okayama, along with its quintessential Japanese culture and traditions. At the scheduled time, meet your knowledgeable guide and travel by public transport to Korakuen Garden, one of the top three best landscape gardens in the country. Constructed by a feudal lord in the late 17th century, this garden has sprawling lawns, ponds and walking paths. Then, visit the nearby Okayama Castle, also known as ‘crow castle’ for its distinctive black exterior. As you walk, your guide will tell you about the Bizen yaki pottery workshops located within the castle premises. The next destination on the itinerary is Hayashibara Museum of Art, which houses around 10,000 artefacts including national treasures and cultural assets. One of the highlights here is the collection of swords from the Ikeda clan that ruled Japan for most of the Edo period. After the tour winds up, return to your hotel.(Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1300 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: easy; Please note that this activity may not be suitable for people with limited mobility as the public transport option involves a lot of walking; Entrance fees included; Not available on Mon)
Hotel options
Make your own way from your hotel to Okayama train station
Shinkansen Train from Okayama to Hakata Fukuoka (Duration: 2 hrs, Standard Class)
Private transfer from Fukuoka Train Station to Hotel Transfer (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English)
2 Nights
Included activities
Enjoy the culinary delights of Fukuoka at the iconic open air food stalls known as ‘yatai’. These stalls are typically set up as evening approaches and fold up late at night or early in the morning. In the evening, meet your guide and travel by local trains and the subway to go yatai-hopping. Along the way, learn about the regional cuisine that centers around meat, fish, and ramen or noodle bowls. Head to the vibrant Nakasu Kawabata, the oldest shopping district in Fukuoka, and the streets in the Tenjin area, home to many of the 150-odd stalls in the city. Accompany your guide around the rows of yatai, with seating typically available for only about seven to eight people at a time. Make quick stops at some of the riverside stalls to taste their specialties and mingle with the locals, before it is time to head back. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 1800 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Meals included: dinner (Yatai food of your choice with a set budget, one drink); Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Entrance fees, subway and local train fares are included; Please note that you will have to pay for your other drinks on the spot)
Discover the harbor city of Fukuoka and enjoy a river cruise. At the scheduled time, meet your guide and travel by local trains and buses to visit the city’s prominent attractions. First, check out the scenic Ohori Park, the largest green space in the city. Enjoy a stroll along the large moat while your guide tells you about the city’s history and culture. After, head to the riverside and embark on a leisurely cruise. As you sail, take in views of popular landmarks and localities including the vibrant Nakasu Kawabata area, the oldest shopping district in Fukuoka. Your guide will also point out the mobile riverside food stalls known as ‘yatai’. These stalls are typically set up as evening approaches and fold up late at night or early in the morning. Disembark and return to your hotel with lasting memories. (Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1300 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers via public transport)
Hotel options
Private Transfer from Hotel to Fukuoka Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
Train from Hakata Fukuoka to Nagasaki (Duration: 2 hrs, Standard Class)
Transfer from Nagasaki Train Station to Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
2 Nights
Included activities
Discover the unique ambience of this historic town that straddles both the orient and the occident with ease. As the only Japanese town that could interact with foreign merchants during the nation’s era of seclusion, it is home to old British mansions, churches and Chinese shrines. Visit the charming Glover Hill open-air museum, showcasing the residences of European merchants built during the second half of the 19th century. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbor stretched out below. Stop by the Chinese shrine of Koshi-byo dedicated to Confucius, built in the 1890s. Walkover to the city’s bustling Chinatown and sample the delicious steamed dumplings at the many street stalls. Your afternoon is dedicated to the Nagasaki Peace Park that commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in August, 1945. Discover how the city has recovered since that time, and visit the monuments and memorials leading up to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and the Hypocenter Park. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity & Public Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate).
Hotel options
Private transfer from Hotel to Nagasaki Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
Train from Nagasaki to Shin Osaka (Duration: 4.5 hrs, Standard Class)
Taxi transfer from Osaka train station to your hotel (including assistance from the train station until you reach your hotel)
2 Nights
Included activities
Explore the prominent landmarks of the port city of Osaka. Meet your guide and travel by local trains and the subway to the attractions on your itinerary. Begin with a visit to the stately Osaka Castle, easily identified by its majestic stone walls and moats. One of Japan’s most famous castles, it played a pivotal role in the unification of the country in the 16th century. Enjoy a stroll around the grounds as you listen to your guide’s interesting narrative about the history of this edifice. Later, make your way to the vibrant Dotonbori shopping and entertainment district, also a foodie’s paradise. As you walk along the bustling streets, keep an eye out for the iconic mechanized signs that are lit up at night alongside the neon lights. The famous Glico running man and the Kani Doraku crab are two signs that might catch your eye. (Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1300 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: easy; Entrance fees, subway and local train fares are included)
Hotel options
Private transfer from your hotel to Osaka train station (including assistance from your hotel until you board your train)
Train from Shin Osaka to Kanazawa via Tsuruga (Duration: 2.45 hrs, Standard Class)
Private Transfer from Station to Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
2 Nights
Included activities
Enjoy the unique experience of participating in a tea ceremony with a sado or tea art host at a charming Japanese tearoom. Gain insights into the art and history of the ceremony as the assistant of the host speaks about its significance in Japanese culture. Step into the tearoom and pick up the nuances of participating in a private Japanese tea ceremony. Savor every minute of the nearly hour-long experience that guides you to the heart of Japanese aesthetics and tradition. (Duration: 1 hr; Fitness Level: Easy; Transfers not included. Please do not wear perfume or cosmetics with a strong aroma. Tea ceremonies involve kneeling on tatami mats but chairs can be provided on advance notice.)
Discover the glorious 17th century Kenroku-en, renowned among Japan's top three gardens. Kenroku-en includes fountains, waterfalls, bridges, stone layouts, and teahouses that enhance its appearance around the year. A sophisticated water system feeds its two ponds – Kasumigaike and Hisagoike. The centerpiece of the garden is a huge two-legged stone lantern – Kotojitoro. Walk on its meandering paths that cut across forests of cherry trees and Karasaki pine. Drop by the well-preserved Seisoanku Samurai villa next door. Later, you will also visit the unique samurai district of Nagamachi. Nomura-ke, the showstopper of this district, is a historic samurai residence with Edo Period heirloom antiques, samurai calligraphy, an lovely courtyard garden, and a tea ceremony room. See the 400-year old Japanese bayberry tree on the premises, Japanese cypress ceilings, and traditional fusuma-e paintings. (Half Day; Private Activity; Time of the Day: 0930 or 1300 hrs; Duration: 4 hrs; Fitness level: Moderate)
Hotel options
Private Transfer from Hotel to Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
Shinkansen Train from Kanazawa to Tokyo (2.5 hrs)
Train from Tokyo Train Station to Narita Airport (1 Hr)
International Departure
Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.
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International Arrival
Shared Transfer from Narita Airport to Tokyo Hotel (including airport assistance)
3 Nights
Included activities
For a day well spent, visit some of Tokyo’s best known landmarks with your local expert! Begin with a trip to the Asakusa locality, well-known for its “shitamachi” or old-world vibe. You can visit the Sensoji temple, a Buddhist temple believed to be Tokyo’s oldest. Adjacent to the temple you will find the Nakamise “dori” or street, where you can taste some traditional snacks if you like. Travel across town to Omotesando and after exploring the ritzy flagship stores and spectacular architecture on the main boulevard. Next, make your last stop at the famous Meiji shrine, dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Meiji. Surrounded by a forested area with 365 species of trees, the shrine is also a popular wedding venue, so don’t be surprised if you come across a bride and groom all dressed up for their big day! (Half Day; 0900 or 1400 hrs; Private Activity; Transfers by public transport; Fitness Level: Moderate)
Discover spectacular natural beauty in the mountainous town of Hakone. Reach Hakone with your guide, and explore the old town – Moto Hakone – along lake Ashi. Taste local delicacies in Ashinoko Chaya, stroll along the cedar tree-lined Kyukaido (Ancient Highway) or visit the Hakone-jinja shrine or the museum – depending on your interests. Relish lunch before you board a cruise boat to sail across the lake. Take in stunning views of the snow-capped Mount Fuji if the weather is clear. Glide up from the lake to Mount Komagatake on the Komagatake Ropeway admiring Mount Fuji. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the lake, Hakone, and Mount Fuji. Head down the ropeway, board the cruise back to Moto Hakone and catch a train back to Tokyo. (Full Day; Please note that you can use public transport – bullet train / Romancecar depending on hotel location and local buses in Hakone. Your pick-up and drop-off point will be your hotel.)
Hotel options
Shared Transfer from Tokyo Hotel to Haneda Airport (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
Flight from Tokyo (Haneda) to Sapporo (New Chitose)
Shared Transfer from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo Hotel (including airport assistance)
3 Nights
Included activities
See the highlights of Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, during this half day tour. At the scheduled time, meet your guide and travel by the subway and local buses to popular landmarks. Start with a visit to either Sapporo Beer Museum or Shiroi Koibito Park. The Sapporo Beer Museum chronicles the history of beer in Japan and offers insight into the process of beer-making. While here, you can also enjoy a sampling session. At Shiroi Koibito Park theme park, learn about the iconic white chocolate cookies that are synonymous with Hokkaido and the techniques used to make this delicious sweet treat. There is also a miniature train and landscaped gardens on the premises. Later, stop by the 19th-century Clock Tower made of wood, believed to be the oldest in the country. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the sprawling Odori Park, the venue for the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, before winding up the tour at Nijo Market. This lively market is packed with restaurants and food stalls where you could treat yourself to a meal before heading back to your hotel. (Duration: half day; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: easy)
Hotel options
Shared transfer from Sapporo Hotel to Shin Chitose Airport (including airport assistance)
Board your flight from Sapporo (New Chitose) to Osaka (Kansai) (Duration: 2 hrs)
Shared Transfer from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Hotel (including airport assistance)
3 Nights
Included activities
Explore the famous shrines of Kyoto, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. At the scheduled time, meet your guide and travel by public transport to the attractions on your itinerary. Begin with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple, a Zen shrine known for its stunning gold leaf-covered façade. Overlooking a large pond and surrounded by lush vegetation, this temple makes for a picturesque sight. Next, stop by Ryoanji Temple, which is home to one of the most famous Zen rock gardens in the country. There is a pond, a network of walking trails, and a restaurant on the grounds. You will then visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, built to appease a vengeful spirit. Located in the Kamishichiken district, the oldest geisha neighborhood of the city, this temple is popular with students. (Duration: 4 hrs; Time: 0900 or 1300 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: moderate, please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Please wear comfortable walking shoes)
Wake up early and enjoy a peaceful hike through the Kitayama mountains in northern Kyoto. Arriving at Kurama, pass by a bright red statue of Tengu, and the two small waterfalls nearby. Ascend the beautiful, forested staircase trail flanked by vermillion-colored lamp posts. Expect to see numerous shrines, paper lanterns, statues of mythical figures, and a couple of conceptual installations along the way. After entering the wooden gate of Yuki-jinja shrine, encounter a lofty pine tree, make a wish at the main hall, and continue further. Take a breather at the plaza in front of Kurama-dera temple. Minutes later, you’ll walk past a bell tower and a museum before reaching the summit. After a short break, head further downhill on a trail covered in tree roots. As you traverse the atmospheric trail, occasionally spot deer amid the cedar trees. Reaching the bottom of the hill, cross a small bridge over Kibune-gawa river and explore the quaint village of Kibune. (Half Day; Time of the day: 0900 hrs, Duration: 4 hrs, Public transport in local trains and buses; Fitness level: Moderate; Please note that this activity is not available during December – March.)
Hotel options
Private transfer from your hotel to Kyoto train station (including assistance from your hotel until you board your train)
Shinkansen Train from Kyoto to Okayama (Duration: 1 hr, Standard Class)
Make your own way from the Okayama train station to your hotel
2 Nights
Included activities
Discover the feudal history of Okayama, along with its quintessential Japanese culture and traditions. At the scheduled time, meet your knowledgeable guide and travel by public transport to Korakuen Garden, one of the top three best landscape gardens in the country. Constructed by a feudal lord in the late 17th century, this garden has sprawling lawns, ponds and walking paths. Then, visit the nearby Okayama Castle, also known as ‘crow castle’ for its distinctive black exterior. As you walk, your guide will tell you about the Bizen yaki pottery workshops located within the castle premises. The next destination on the itinerary is Hayashibara Museum of Art, which houses around 10,000 artefacts including national treasures and cultural assets. One of the highlights here is the collection of swords from the Ikeda clan that ruled Japan for most of the Edo period. After the tour winds up, return to your hotel.(Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1300 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: easy; Please note that this activity may not be suitable for people with limited mobility as the public transport option involves a lot of walking; Entrance fees included; Not available on Mon)
Hotel options
Make your own way from your hotel to Okayama train station
Shinkansen Train from Okayama to Hakata Fukuoka (Duration: 2 hrs, Standard Class)
Private transfer from Fukuoka Train Station to Hotel Transfer (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English)
2 Nights
Included activities
Enjoy the culinary delights of Fukuoka at the iconic open air food stalls known as ‘yatai’. These stalls are typically set up as evening approaches and fold up late at night or early in the morning. In the evening, meet your guide and travel by local trains and the subway to go yatai-hopping. Along the way, learn about the regional cuisine that centers around meat, fish, and ramen or noodle bowls. Head to the vibrant Nakasu Kawabata, the oldest shopping district in Fukuoka, and the streets in the Tenjin area, home to many of the 150-odd stalls in the city. Accompany your guide around the rows of yatai, with seating typically available for only about seven to eight people at a time. Make quick stops at some of the riverside stalls to taste their specialties and mingle with the locals, before it is time to head back. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 1800 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Meals included: dinner (Yatai food of your choice with a set budget, one drink); Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Entrance fees, subway and local train fares are included; Please note that you will have to pay for your other drinks on the spot)
Discover the harbor city of Fukuoka and enjoy a river cruise. At the scheduled time, meet your guide and travel by local trains and buses to visit the city’s prominent attractions. First, check out the scenic Ohori Park, the largest green space in the city. Enjoy a stroll along the large moat while your guide tells you about the city’s history and culture. After, head to the riverside and embark on a leisurely cruise. As you sail, take in views of popular landmarks and localities including the vibrant Nakasu Kawabata area, the oldest shopping district in Fukuoka. Your guide will also point out the mobile riverside food stalls known as ‘yatai’. These stalls are typically set up as evening approaches and fold up late at night or early in the morning. Disembark and return to your hotel with lasting memories. (Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1300 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers via public transport)
Hotel options
Private Transfer from Hotel to Fukuoka Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
Train from Hakata Fukuoka to Nagasaki (Duration: 2 hrs, Standard Class)
Transfer from Nagasaki Train Station to Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
2 Nights
Included activities
Discover the unique ambience of this historic town that straddles both the orient and the occident with ease. As the only Japanese town that could interact with foreign merchants during the nation’s era of seclusion, it is home to old British mansions, churches and Chinese shrines. Visit the charming Glover Hill open-air museum, showcasing the residences of European merchants built during the second half of the 19th century. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbor stretched out below. Stop by the Chinese shrine of Koshi-byo dedicated to Confucius, built in the 1890s. Walkover to the city’s bustling Chinatown and sample the delicious steamed dumplings at the many street stalls. Your afternoon is dedicated to the Nagasaki Peace Park that commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in August, 1945. Discover how the city has recovered since that time, and visit the monuments and memorials leading up to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and the Hypocenter Park. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity & Public Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate).
Hotel options
Private transfer from Hotel to Nagasaki Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
Train from Nagasaki to Shin Osaka (Duration: 4.5 hrs, Standard Class)
Taxi transfer from Osaka train station to your hotel (including assistance from the train station until you reach your hotel)
2 Nights
Included activities
Explore the prominent landmarks of the port city of Osaka. Meet your guide and travel by local trains and the subway to the attractions on your itinerary. Begin with a visit to the stately Osaka Castle, easily identified by its majestic stone walls and moats. One of Japan’s most famous castles, it played a pivotal role in the unification of the country in the 16th century. Enjoy a stroll around the grounds as you listen to your guide’s interesting narrative about the history of this edifice. Later, make your way to the vibrant Dotonbori shopping and entertainment district, also a foodie’s paradise. As you walk along the bustling streets, keep an eye out for the iconic mechanized signs that are lit up at night alongside the neon lights. The famous Glico running man and the Kani Doraku crab are two signs that might catch your eye. (Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1300 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: easy; Entrance fees, subway and local train fares are included)
Hotel options
Private transfer from your hotel to Osaka train station (including assistance from your hotel until you board your train)
Train from Shin Osaka to Kanazawa via Tsuruga (Duration: 2.45 hrs, Standard Class)
Private Transfer from Station to Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
2 Nights
Included activities
Enjoy the unique experience of participating in a tea ceremony with a sado or tea art host at a charming Japanese tearoom. Gain insights into the art and history of the ceremony as the assistant of the host speaks about its significance in Japanese culture. Step into the tearoom and pick up the nuances of participating in a private Japanese tea ceremony. Savor every minute of the nearly hour-long experience that guides you to the heart of Japanese aesthetics and tradition. (Duration: 1 hr; Fitness Level: Easy; Transfers not included. Please do not wear perfume or cosmetics with a strong aroma. Tea ceremonies involve kneeling on tatami mats but chairs can be provided on advance notice.)
Discover the glorious 17th century Kenroku-en, renowned among Japan's top three gardens. Kenroku-en includes fountains, waterfalls, bridges, stone layouts, and teahouses that enhance its appearance around the year. A sophisticated water system feeds its two ponds – Kasumigaike and Hisagoike. The centerpiece of the garden is a huge two-legged stone lantern – Kotojitoro. Walk on its meandering paths that cut across forests of cherry trees and Karasaki pine. Drop by the well-preserved Seisoanku Samurai villa next door. Later, you will also visit the unique samurai district of Nagamachi. Nomura-ke, the showstopper of this district, is a historic samurai residence with Edo Period heirloom antiques, samurai calligraphy, an lovely courtyard garden, and a tea ceremony room. See the 400-year old Japanese bayberry tree on the premises, Japanese cypress ceilings, and traditional fusuma-e paintings. (Half Day; Private Activity; Time of the Day: 0930 or 1300 hrs; Duration: 4 hrs; Fitness level: Moderate)
Hotel options
Private Transfer from Hotel to Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).
Shinkansen Train from Kanazawa to Tokyo (2.5 hrs)
Train from Tokyo Train Station to Narita Airport (1 Hr)
International Departure
Get the perfect introduction to Japan’s age-old traditions! Focused on onsen or hot spring bathing rituals, this private tour takes you to the mountain town of Kinosaki, set between Kyoto and Osaka, which is famed for its onsen bathhouses, ryokans (inn) and gorgeous scenery. While staying in a typical ryokan, you can also sample authentic…
An ideal introduction to the Land of the Rising Sun, explore the best-loved highlights of Japan in just a short period of time. Discover an incredible blend of old-world charm and modern innovation in Tokyo, walk past bustling street laden with the best street and gourmet cuisine that the city has to offer, and explore…
On this tailor-made Japan tour, experience its ancient legends, traditions and customs firsthand. Beginning in Tokyo, explore the famed Sensoji Temple and the vibrant Arakusa cultural district on a privately guided tour. At the Shitaya Jinja shrine, witness age old religious rituals firsthand and discuss the Shinto faith with a priest. In Hakone, experience the…
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