Itinerary Summary

Day	Place	Highlights	Hotel Options
1 - 4	Tokyo	Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, River cruise to Asakusa	Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, Keio Plaza Hotel
4 - 7	Sapporo	Natural Landscapes and Urban Gardens, Snow Festival, Winter Sports	Mitsui Garden Sapporo, Sapporo Grand Hotel
7 - 10	Kyoto	Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara’s Buddha Statue, Geisha District, Uji Tea Plantations	Noku Kyoto, Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
10 - 12	Okayama	Okayama Castle, Korakuen Garden, Kurashiki Art Village Visit	Mitsui Garden Okayama, Hotel Granvia Okayama
12 - 14	Fukuoka	Ancient Temples and Zen Gardens, Vibrant Art and Culture, Yatai Street Food Stalls	The B Hakata, Hotel Nikko Fukuoka
14 - 16	Nagasaki	Churches, Shrines and Temples, Bomb Museums and Memorials, Vibrant Culinary Scene	ANA Crowne Plaza Nagasaki Glover Hill
16 - 18	Osaka	Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, Street Food	Hotel Vischio Osaka by Granvia, Hilton Osaka
18 - 20	Kanazawa	Kenrokuen: Japan’s most celebrated landscape garden, Higashi Chaya district (where Geisha’s perform tea ceremonies), Samurai district	Hotel Intergate Kanazawa, ANA Crowne Plaza Kanazawa
20 - 20	Tokyo	Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, River cruise to Asakusa

Itinerary Details

Day 1 - 4

International Arrival

Shared Transfer from Narita Airport to Tokyo Hotel (including airport assistance)

Tokyo

3 Nights

Tokyo is a city like no other! Defined by cutting-edge design, quirky creativity and its own unique ancient culture, the city defines the best of both worlds.

Included Activities

Traditional Tokyo by Day
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)

Natural Delights of Hakone (From Tokyo)
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

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku – Opt 1

Room	Standard Twin Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Keio Plaza Hotel – Opt 2

Room	Plaza Superior South Queen
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 4 - 7

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)

Sapporo

3 Nights

Explore Sapporo, the dynamic capital of Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido! A year-round destination, stunning natural landscapes and distinctive seasons welcome you in this city.

Included Activities

Half Day Sapporo Highlights Tour (English Guide, Public transport)
Start your exploration of Sapporo at the scenic Maruyama Park situated at the heart of the city. Accompany your guide through this green oasis to Hokkaido Shrine, one of the island’s important places of worship. Move on to Odori Park which hosts the snow festival in February each year. Stroll through the park watching locals picnic while children run about. Stop for a quick photo in front of the iconic Clock Tower, which is the inspiration for the star on the Sapporo Beer cans. Make your way to the century-old Nijo Market, which is a hub of activity with locals and tourists alike thronging to see and sample the variety of fruits, vegetables, and fish available there. Lunch on some donburi or raw fish with rice, or choose from the numerous other seafood delicacies that Sapporo is famous for. Say goodbye to your guide and explore the market at your own pace before heading back to your hotel. (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning; Fixed Time; Duration: 4 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy;) Public Transport: Local busses and subway. Pick up: hotel / Drop off: hotel

Hotel Options

Mitsui Garden Sapporo – Opt 1

Room	Standard
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Sapporo Grand Hotel – Opt 2

Room	Standard Large Twin
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 7 - 10

Shared transfer from Sapporo Hotel to Shin Chitose Airport (including airport assistance)

Flight from Sapporo (New Chitose) to Osaka (Kansai)

Shared Transfer from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Hotel (including airport assistance)

Kyoto

3 Nights

Kyoto is to be seen to be believed. With no less than 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the city encapsulates traditional Japanese culture and tradition.

Included Activities

Kyoto Highlights: Half Day Tour
Discover a slice of traditional Japan on this tour of a selection of Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit the famous Golden Pavilion or the Buddhist Kinkakuji Temple, which was originally built as the retirement home of the 14th Century Shogun, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The lovely villa was turned into a temple after his death. Stop by the grand, 16th Century Nijo Castle with its imposing ramparts and spectacular gardens. Reflective of the power and grandeur of the Edo Shogunate, marvel at the castle’s architecture and building features like its intricate sliding doors, ‘chirping’ nightingale floors and secret chambers. Wind up your day tour by fortifying yourself at Nishiki Market, also known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”. This street food district is lined with innumerable little noodle shops and food stalls selling deliciously fresh seafood, delectable sushi, traditional pickles and sweets. [Half Day, Time of the Day: 0930 or 1430 hrs; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please bring comfortable walking shoes].

Kurama – Kibune Hiking Tour
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

Noku Kyoto – Opt 1

Room
Meals
Style	International

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel – Opt 2

Room	Standard Twin Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 10 - 12

Taxi transfer from your hotel to Kyoto train station (including assistance from your hotel until you board your train)

Shinkansen Train from Kyoto to Okayama (1 hr)

Make your own way from the Okayama train station to your hotel

Okayama

2 Nights

Okayama provides you with beauty and grace during your tour of Japan. The town boasts a gorgeous castle that sits on the banks of the Asahi River, which has been dubbed ‘Crow Castle’ due to its blackish exterior although the castle also has remnants of its original gold gilded roof.

Included Activities

Highlights of Okayama
Discover the feudal history of Okayama, along with its quintessential Japanese culture and traditions during this half day tour. Admire the spellbinding beauty of Korakuen Garden that was commissioned by a feudal lord in 1700. This circuit-style Japanese garden includes a broad lawn, and is part of Japan’s top three gardens and has also been awarded the highest, three-star rating by the Michelin Green Guide. Walk over to the impressive black tower of Okayama Castle next door. This modern reconstruction showcases the history of Okayama’s Ikeda feudal family. (Half Day; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable walking shoes).

Hotel Options

Mitsui Garden Okayama – Opt 1

Room	Standard Single
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Hotel Granvia Okayama – Opt 2

Room	Concept Double
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 12 - 14

Make your own way from your hotel to Okayama train station

Shinkansen Train from Okayama to Hakata Fukuoka (2 hr)

Private transfer from Fukuoka Train Station to Hotel Transfer (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Fukuoka

2 Nights

Fukuoka is a strategic harbor city anchored on Kyushu island in southern Japan. Historically, part of marine trade routes since the 13th century, discover a wealthy, cosmopolitan metropolis.

Included Activities

On the Ramen Trail in Fukuoka
Try out the simple yet hearty culinary delights that Fukuoka is famous for! Accompanied by your expert guide, go hunting for Fukuoka’s iconic Yatai or open-air food stands that typically accommodate a handful of hungry patrons in a congenial outdoor setting. Although the city boasts more than a hundred such Yatai that serve a range of delicious ramen or noodle bowls, the best are to be found on Nakasu Island, right in the heart of the city. Stroll along the waterfront lined with long rows of Yatai, and relish a hearty bowl of Fukuoka’s famous tonkotsu ramen from any of the stalls. (Time of Day: Evening; Duration: 2.5 hrs; Private Activity & Public Transfer; Meal included: A bowl of ramen and a drink; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please note that you may have to wait in line for seats as the stalls are small and popular, and do not accept reservations).

Highlights of Fukuoka Tour
Explore the landmarks of Fukuoka on this tour. Visit the famous eighth century Shinto shrine of Kushida-jinja that hosts the annual Yamakasa Festival. Stroll around the grounds admiring the beautiful floats used in the festival, the biggest Otafuku mask in Japan, and a well to pray for eternal youth. Try lifting the Trial Stone and learn about the beliefs behind it. Continue on to the beautiful green lung – Ohori Park, and stroll on the pathway around the central pond. View the ruins of the Fukuoka Castle and the lovely cherry blossoms in bloom during spring. If you wish, relish a local delicacy – the Hakata Ramen – for lunch. (Half Day; Times: 0900/1300 hrs; This activity includes public transport – local trains and buses. You will be picked up and dropped off at the hotel.)

Hotel Options

The B Hakata – Opt 1

Room	Deluxe Twin
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Hotel Nikko Fukuoka – Opt 2

Room	Luxury Semidouble
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 14 - 16

Private Transfer from Hotel to Fukuoka Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Train from Hakata Fukuoka to Nagasaki (2 hr)

Transfer from Nagasaki Train Station to Hotel Transfer (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Nagasaki

2 Nights

Close to mainland Asia, foreign traders, merchants, and missionaries have thronged to Nagasaki since the 16th century. The only trading port during national isolation, the city has played a significant role in modernizing Japan.

Included Activities

Nagasaki: A Colorful Fusion of Civilizations
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

ANA Crowne Plaza Nagasaki Glover Hill – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 16 - 18

Private transfer from Hotel to Nagasaki Train Station (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Train from Nagasaki to Shin Osaka (4.5 hr)

Taxi transfer from Osaka train station to your hotel (including assistance from the train station until you reach your hotel)

Osaka

2 Nights

Osaka is third largest city of Japan and has been the home of traders and merchants. It is also well-known for Japan’s oldest temple, the Shinto Sumiyoshi-taisha, and the majestic 16th century Osaka Castle.

Included Activities

Osaka Castle and Abeno Harukas Tour
Set out on this fascinating discovery of the iconic attractions of this sprawling metropolis. Stroll around the stately Osaka Castle with its majestic stone walls and moats as your guide narrates interesting anecdotes. Soak in the historic ambiance of this famous castle that has been wholly rebuilt after World War II to include modern amenities while retaining its original facade. After exploring the castle and its grounds to your heart’s content, head to Abeno Harukas skyscraper, Japan’s tallest building at a height of 984 feet (300 m). Savor 360 degree views of the city from the observation decks that are spread across the top three floors of the building. Wind up your tour and head back to your hotel. (Half Day; Time: 0930/1330 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Hotel Options

Hotel Vischio Osaka by Granvia – Opt 1

Room	Standard Double Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Hilton Osaka – Opt 2

Room	Hilton Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 18 - 20

Taxi transfer from your hotel to Osaka train station (including assistance from your hotel until you board your train)

Train from Shin Osaka to Kanazawa (2.45 hrs)

Private Transfer from Station to Hotel (please note: the chauffeur usually does not speak English).

Kanazawa

2 Nights

Kanazawa is perhaps best known for its 17th century castle garden Kenroku-en. It is equally well known as the neighbor of the quintessential Japanese feudal fortress, Kanazawa Castle.

Included Activities

Kanazawa Tea Ceremony
Enjoy the unique experience of participating in an authentic 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. (Half Day; Fitness Level: Easy. 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.)

Treasures of Kanazawa
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

Hotel Intergate Kanazawa – Opt 1

Room	Standard Double room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

ANA Crowne Plaza Kanazawa – Opt 2

Room	Standard Twin
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 20 - 20

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)

Tokyo

0 Nights

Tokyo is a city like no other! Defined by cutting-edge design, quirky creativity and its own unique ancient culture, the city defines the best of both worlds.

International Departure

Price & Inclusions

Option 1 From ~~$ 12,883~~ $ 10,890 /person
Option 2 From ~~$ 13,870~~ $ 12,690 /person

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.

Price Includes

Accommodation in one double room for 20 days / 19 nights.
Meals as indicated
Economy flights for all sectors :
- Tokyo (Haneda) – Sapporo (New Chitose)
- Sapporo (New Chitose) – Osaka (Kansai)
The following train journeys in the highest class available :
- Kyoto – Okayama (Shinkansen Train – Standard Class)
- Okayama – Hakata Fukuoka (Shinkansen Train – Standard Class)
- Hakata Fukuoka – Nagasaki (Train – Standard Class)
- Nagasaki – Shin Osaka (Train – Standard Class)
- Shin Osaka – Kanazawa (Train – Standard Class)
- Kanazawa – Tokyo (Shinkansen Train – Standard Class)
- Tokyo Train Station – Narita Airport (Train – Standard Class)
All activities as listed :
- Tokyo: Traditional Tokyo by Day
- Tokyo: Natural Delights of Hakone (From Tokyo)
- Sapporo: Half Day Sapporo Highlights Tour (English Guide, Public transport)
- Kyoto: Kyoto Highlights: Half Day Tour
- Kyoto: Kurama – Kibune Hiking Tour
- Okayama: Highlights of Okayama
- Fukuoka: On the Ramen Trail in Fukuoka
- Fukuoka: Highlights of Fukuoka Tour
- Nagasaki: Nagasaki: A Colorful Fusion of Civilizations
- Osaka: Osaka Castle and Abeno Harukas Tour
- Kanazawa: Kanazawa Tea Ceremony
- Kanazawa: Treasures of Kanazawa
Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact, supporting you during your trip
On request: A printed set of your travel documents by post
Fees and taxes
All activities specified in the itinerary, including entrance fees, accompanied by your tour guide
All airport, train station and hotel transfers as indicated. For private transfers our representative will meet you at the airport or the station and accompany you to your vehicle (and vice versa).

Not Included

Camera fees
Tips, additional meals and personal expenses
Visa fees
Travel, health and cancellation insurance
International airfare (from your home country to your destination and return)

Book this trip before September 30, 2020, and receive 10% off your trip price.

Best of Japan

Itinerary Summary

Ideal For

Itinerary Details

Tokyo

Sapporo

Kyoto

Okayama

Fukuoka

Nagasaki

Osaka

Kanazawa

Tokyo

Price & Inclusions

Price Includes

Not Included