Discover how Japan has undergone centuries of transformations, from its first ancient capital Nara, to its present capital of Tokyo. From Nagano to Kyoto, temples to stunning gardens, this exclusive tour gives you a better understanding and appreciation for this East Asian land. Local expert historians provide fascinating background on Japan’s history, Geisha life, and the skill of wood block printmaking. Highlights include travel via the famous Shinkansen, or “bullet train,” to Nagano and a cable car ride in Hakone for spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.

Experiences

• Cruise along Lake Ashi, known for its reflection of the famous Mt. Fuji.
• Visit Higashi, a traditional Geisha district as well as a Shima – a typical Japanese tea house.
• Return to the days of the samurai when you visit Nomura Family House, the traditional residence of Nagamachi Samuraithen.

Itinerary

Air 1: Overnight flight
Embark on a journey to Japan. Learn about the country’s first ancient capital, Nara, and its present capital of Tokyo. Dive into samurai culture; learn about the Geisha; and visit temples, shrines, gardens and markets for an authentic experience in this beautiful land. An overnight flight brings you to Tokyo.

Day 2: Arrive Tokyo, Japan
Arrive in Tokyo, "the Land of the Rising Sun," and Japan’s bustling capital city.

Day 3: Tokyo
Delve into history today. Begin with a visit to the Meiji Shrine, honouring Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and discover the emperor’s role in Japan’s modernization. Stroll one of the first shopping avenues in Japan, the charming Nakamise Shopping Arcade. Then, it’s off for a visit to Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple – Asakusa Kannon. Enjoy a brief stop outside the gates of the Imperial Palace. The remainder of your day is at leisure. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Day 4: Tokyo - Hakone - Tokyo
Set off this morning for Hakone, part of a stunning national park. Cruise along Lake Ashi, taking in the view of Mt. Fuji reflected in its waters (weather permitting). Climb aboard a Hakone Ropeway cable car and gaze down upon Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, Mt. Futago, volcanic peaks, steaming hot springs and shady valleys. At the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, see the works of this famous textile artist who wove stunning tie-dye kimonos from silk crepes.
Today breakfast will be included.

Day 5: Tokyo - Nagano
Today, it’s all aboard the Shinkansen, or “bullet train,” to Nagano. Enjoy a walking tour to the Zenkoji Temple, one of the most visited temples in Japan, founded 1,400 years ago and home to what many believe is the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. Next, visit Jigokudani Yaen Koen, where wild monkeys bathe in hot springs. Enjoy leisure time in Obuse Town.
Today breakfast and lunch will be included.

Day 6: Nagano - Takayama
Tap into Japanese culture today, first with a stop at Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure. Next, visit the Ukiyoe Museum, where fine wood block prints of Japanese customs and history are preserved. Visit Daio Wasabi Nojo Farm, where pungent wasabi grows. Roll up your sleeves and make pickles before your soba noodles and tempura lunch. Later, arrive at your resort with its comfortable Japanese inn ambience. This evening, don a time-honoured kimono for dinner. Afterwards, perhaps soak in the luxurious hot spring baths at your resort.
Today breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included.

Day 7: Takayama - Kanazawa
Take a leisurely ramble to the morning market. Visit Takayama Jinya, host to one of Japan's most lively festivals. In Matsuri-no-Mori, spot floats and marionettes. Stop in Shirakawago and Gokyama to see traditional houses with steep thatched roofs. Learn how to make Japanese paper at Gokayama Washi-no-Sato; this high quality paper is a mixture of paper mulberry, called “Kozo,” and hollyhock, called “Tororo Aoi” – a true experience in Japanese art.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Day 8: Kanazawa
Recall the days of the samurai when you visit Nomura Family House, the traditional residence of Nagamachi Samuraithen. Stroll through the renowned Oumicho Fish Market. Visit Higashi, the Geisha district, and learn about Geisha customs. Visit a traditional “Shima” tea house. Unwind this afternoon at Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Garden.
Today breakfast will be included.

Day 9: Kanazawa - Kyoto
Today, visit the Miho Museum, the “Museum in the Mountains.” Inside, behold a collection of cultural antiques.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Day 10: Kyoto
In Kyoto, visit Kiyomizu Temple and Sanjusangen-do Temple - two national treasures. Sanjusangen-do Temple houses more than 1,030 standing Buddhist statues. Visit the Kodaiji Temple and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. At Nijo Castle, see elaborate wood carvings, wall paintings and the Ninomaru Garden designed by the famous landscape architect and tea master Kobori Enshu. Visit the Kinkakuji Temple, or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy.
Today breakfast will be included.

Day 11: Kyoto
Enjoy a day of leisure to explore this fascinating city. Perhaps you will choose a full day optional excursion to Nara. Join your fellow travellers this evening for a special farewell dinner and Geisha dance performance.
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Day 12: Kyoto - Osaka - Tour Concludes
Depart this fascinating land, reflecting on all you learned about its rich history and traditional culture. En route home, cross the International Dateline and gain a day, arriving in the U.S. the same day you departed Japan.
Today breakfast will be included.