Japan’s Onsen Traditions

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; Time of the day: 0900 or 1300 hrs; Private Activity; Transfers by public transport; Fitness Level: Moderate)

Enjoy a walk in the picturesque Kiyosumi Garden and witness a unique ceremony during this tour. Make use of public transport, such as the subway and local trains, and head to the charming Fukagawa district in east Tokyo. Reach Kiyosumi Garden and, accompanied by a guide, explore the traditional stroll garden that was constructed during the Meiji period. Walk around the large pond, surrounded by Japanese black pine, hydrangeas and Taiwanese cherry trees. Your guide will tell you how Iwasaki Yatarō, founder of the Mitsubishi Corporation, rebuilt the garden and transported more than 50 huge rocks from all over Japan to be placed here. Take in the pretty bridges, the islands in the pond and the tea house before walking to the nearby Buddhist temple of Fukagawa Fudō-dō. The large temple houses rows of statues of Fudōmyō-ō, a fierce form of Buddha. The highlight of this temple is the remarkable goma-kito or fire ceremony. Watch as a Buddhist priest burns sanctified wooden sticks in a pit, while other monks chant in unison and beat the drums. After witnessing this special ritual up close, explore more of the temple or head back to your hotel.

(Duration: half day; Time: 1030 hrs/ 1430 hrs; Private activity; No transfers; Please note that you will travel to the area by public transport (subway and local trains); Your tour will disband in the temple area)

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)

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tradition of Ikebana at its birthplace, Kyoto. Accompanied by a local guide, visit an Ikebana master’s house, where you can learn about this meditative art form in a relaxed setting. In addition to the Japanese aesthetic, learn the basic concepts of Ikebana, and its differences from Western styles of flower arrangements. After a brief lesson in the history and spiritual significance of Ikebana, your host demonstrates various techniques and presents useful tips. Use a variety of natural materials to make your own unique construction, during which you might have the opportunity ask questions and learn more, before you return to your accommodation.

(Duration: 2.5 hrs; Time: 0930/1000/1300/1530; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Easy; Kindly note limited availability and surcharges on the following dates: January 2-5, April 29-May 6, December 25-29)

Embark on the Kinosaki Limited Express train on a 2.5-hour journey from Kyoto. Travel through the mountains of Hyogo Prefecture to Kinosaki Onsen, a charming 8th-century hot spring town near the Sea of Japan in the Kansai Region. At Kinosaki Onsen, make your way on foot or by complimentary shuttle bus to a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. You can visit Onsenji Temple, dedicated to the town’s guardian of hot springs, and Kinosaki Art Museum to see its ancient religious artifacts. Ascend by cable car to the observation deck for a bird’s-eye view of the town. On your return, head to the on-site onsen (baths) for a relaxing soak in mineral-rich waters. The next morning, clad in a luxurious kimono and wooden sandals, venture out along the scenic willow-lined Otani River to Kinosaki’s seven legendary public bathhouses. As an overnight guest at a ryokan, you will receive a free pass to all communal bathhouses. Each hot spring bathhouse has unique features and waters known to heal many ailments. On Day Three, depart from Kinosaki Onsen and take a train ride to Kyoto or Osaka.

(Duration: 3 days/2 nights; Available year-round; Time: 0930 hrs; Shared transfers; Meals included: breakfast & dinner; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: moderate)

Discover the gastronomy of the vibrant port city of Osaka, also known as the food capital of Japan. In the early evening, set off to meet your guide at one of the city’s lively food districts. Walk down pedestrian-only streets lined with vibrant eateries and bars. From ramen bars to restaurants, visit the spots most frequented by locals and sample an array of regional snacks. Takoyaki or fried octopus, okonomiyaki, a type of savory pancake, and kushikatsu or skewered meats and vegetables are some of the popular delicacies found here. You could also check out a traditional izakaya bar before it is time to head back.(Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 1700 hrs; Shared activity; Group size: max 8 ppl; No transfers; Meals included: light meal and drink; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Entrance fees included; The legal drinking age in Japan is 20; Please note that this being a street food tour, it is not recommended for people with strict dietary requirements; This tour is not available on Tuesdays; Min age: 13)

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)