Overview
Special Offer Details
Discover Japan’s timeless beauty on this small group escorted tour, when delicate plum blossoms bloom and serene landscapes, ancient traditions, and cultural treasures from Tokyo to Kyoto can be enjoyed without the peak season crowds. Travel: Plum Blossom Edition - February 16, 2026
This small group journey to Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kaga Onsen, & Kyoto features intimate experiences and unique cultural encounters that help you discover the wonders of Japan.
Your Japan vacation begins in Tokyo, the world’s largest city, where you’ll get a taste for some of its most iconic neighborhoods on city tours. Tour Senso-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city, leave the trendy crowds of Shibuya behind as you explore Meiji-jingu Shrine, dedicated to the late emperor, and go on a shopping spree in Ginza. A day trip to Hakone showcases the beauty of the Japanese countryside with a gondola ride and a lake cruise with Mount Fuji as your unbeatable backdrop.
Ride the bullet train to Kanazawa to continue your trip to Japan. Illuminating city tours showcase the geisha and samurai districts and show off Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. You’ll also learn about some rich Japanese traditions as you join a tea ceremony and learn to make your own gold leaf. Head to the hot spring town of Kaga Onsen, stopping at the iconic thatched roof village of Shirakawa-go, which gives your insight into how people lived in the Japanese Alps in centuries past. In Kaga Onsen, check into your ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you’ll wear traditional clothes, soak in the on-site onsen (hot spring), and enjoy a kaiseke dinner, a multi-course meal that is considered the height of Japanese cuisine.
The final stop on your Japanese vacation is Kyoto, arguably the most beautiful city in the country. Temple hop between some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Pavilion, Tenryu-ji, a renowned Zen temple, and the massive wooden temple of Kiyomizu-dera. You’ll also pass through the thousand vermillion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, which rises along a hillside in the city’s east, explore the bamboo grove of Arashiyama, and travel back in time in the geisha district of Gion.
Highlights
Kyoto – Fushimi Inari Taisha – Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) – Tokyo – Shibuya Crossing
Explore the wonders of Japan on this unforgettable journey through Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kaga Onsen, and Kyoto, filled with unique cultural experiences and stunning sights
Departures
Daily
Trip Includes
- English-speaking Tour Guide for full duration of trip
- Meet and Greet on arrival at Tokyo Airport
- Shared Airport arrival and departure transfers (unguided)
- 4 nights first-class accommodations in Tokyo
- 2 nights first-class accommodations in Kanazawa
- 1 night first-class ryokan accommodations in Kaga Onsen
- 4 nights first-class accommodations in Kyoto
- Small group touring and experiences including:
- Guided sightseeing in Tokyo including Senso-ji temple, Meiji-jingu Shrine and Ginza district
- Guided sightseeing in Hakone including boat ride across Lake Ashinoko and gondola ride
- Guided sightseeing in Kanazawa including Higashi Chaya district
- Guided sightseeing in Kanazawa including Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle and Nagamachi Samurai District
- Guided sightseeing of Shirakawa-go
- Guided sightseeing in Kyoto including Fushimi Inari shrine
- Guided sightseeing in Kyoto including Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Tenryu-ji Zen temple
- Guided sightseeing in Kyoto including Sanjusangendo temple, Kiyomizudera temple and Gion area
- Welcome Dinner in Tokyo
- Traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Kanazawa
- Japanese kaiseki style dinner in Kaga Onsen
- Farewell Dinner in Kyoto
- All entrance fees for sightseeing visited
- Transportation by Motorcoach/Van, Bullet train, Limited express train and Tokyo public transportation
- Luggage transfer
- Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 7 Lunches, 3 Dinners
Trip Excludes
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Travel insurance
- Optional excursions
- Meals and beverages not specifically indicated
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
- Passport & Visa fees if applicable
Summary
Terms and Conditions
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
Upon arrival at Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT), you will be greeted by our representative, who will assist you with getting to your shared transfer that will take you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
The Keio Plaza Hotel is the ideal location to explore the delights of the city of Tokyo. Only minutes away from the most popular shopping and entertainment spots, the luxury hotel provides stunning views over central Tokyo. The Keio Plaza Hotel offers a wide variety of home-away-from-home hospitality, with 1,435 guest rooms to choose from to accommodate your every need. Located in Shinjuku, in the very heart of the Tokyo metropolis, the Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo extends top rated services and facilities, features that guests come to expect of a world class hotel.
Today, explore the dynamic neighborhoods of Shibuya and Asakusa, each offering its own unique charm. Begin your journey by learning the traditional purification ritual at the entrance of the Meiji-jingu Shrine. Then, wander through Harajuku’s vibrant Takeshita Street, known for its youthful, trendy vibe and Kawaii culture. You might even encounter cosplayers dressed as their favorite anime characters. Continue to the sophisticated Omotesando Avenue, where tree-lined streets feature striking modern architecture and luxury designer boutiques. Next, head to the historic Asakusa district in the city's northwest, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple and its towering five-story pagoda. Amidst clouds of fragrant incense, worshippers gather as tourists capture selfies. Let our guide help you interpret your fortune from an Omikuji, a wonderful keepsake from Tokyo. Take time to shop for souvenirs or traditional Japanese rice crackers along Nakamise Shopping Street, which leads to the temple’s outer gate. The final stop is Yushima Tenmangu Shrine where you can enjoy the plum blossoms. The shrine has approximately 300 plum trees, with the majority of them producing white plum blossoms, usually in full bloom by mid February. It is a spectacular site. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Meal
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
The Keio Plaza Hotel is the ideal location to explore the delights of the city of Tokyo. Only minutes away from the most popular shopping and entertainment spots, the luxury hotel provides stunning views over central Tokyo. The Keio Plaza Hotel offers a wide variety of home-away-from-home hospitality, with 1,435 guest rooms to choose from to accommodate your every need. Located in Shinjuku, in the very heart of the Tokyo metropolis, the Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo extends top rated services and facilities, features that guests come to expect of a world class hotel.
Take day trip to Lake Kawaguchiko (approximately 120 km drive), which is located in the town of Fujikawaguchiko in southern Yamanashi Prefecture near Mt. Fuji. It is the second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes in terms of surface area. The northern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko offer some of the most breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, which sometimes come with a reflection in the lake. We will make a stop at Oishi Park which offers stunning panoramic views of the mountain (weather permitting), framed by vibrant seasonal flowers. It's an ideal spot for leisurely walks, photography, and soaking in the natural beauty of the region. Then we will take the Mount Tenjo Ropeway for a short gondola ride to the observation deck, for an elevated panoramic view of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
The Keio Plaza Hotel is the ideal location to explore the delights of the city of Tokyo. Only minutes away from the most popular shopping and entertainment spots, the luxury hotel provides stunning views over central Tokyo. The Keio Plaza Hotel offers a wide variety of home-away-from-home hospitality, with 1,435 guest rooms to choose from to accommodate your every need. Located in Shinjuku, in the very heart of the Tokyo metropolis, the Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo extends top rated services and facilities, features that guests come to expect of a world class hotel.
Today, enjoy Tokyo at leisure, where every street corner offers a new discovery, from tranquil gardens to bustling markets. Explore the city's vibrant energy as you adventure into its diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks at your own. Our guide will be on hand to recommend personalized activities tailored to your interests.
Meal
Breakfast
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
The Keio Plaza Hotel is the ideal location to explore the delights of the city of Tokyo. Only minutes away from the most popular shopping and entertainment spots, the luxury hotel provides stunning views over central Tokyo. The Keio Plaza Hotel offers a wide variety of home-away-from-home hospitality, with 1,435 guest rooms to choose from to accommodate your every need. Located in Shinjuku, in the very heart of the Tokyo metropolis, the Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo extends top rated services and facilities, features that guests come to expect of a world class hotel.
This morning, we travel by bullet train from Tokyo to Kanazawa. Upon arrival, vist the impeccably preserved Higashi Chaya District, a testament to Kanazawa's cultural heritage. Admire the graceful wooden tea houses where geishas once entertained nobility and affluent merchants. While the number of geishas has diminished over time, a handful of tea houses still host nightly entertainment for their discerning clientele. Our guide will point them out and offer insight into the enduring allure of geisha culture in this enchanting district. We will visit Kaikaro Chaya, an active tea house that welcomes visitors during its non-operating daytime hours. We will also have the opportunity to get hands on and create your own gold leaf masterpiece. A gold leaf is made by beating gold into an extremely thin sheet with a thickness of 0.1 to 0.125 millionths of a meter. It is so thin that it will disappear when you rub it with your fingers. The production of gold leaf started in Kanazawa at the end of the 16th century.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch
Hyatt Centric Kanazawa
Discover the best of Kanazawa at Hyatt Centric Kanazawa, an upscale lifestyle hotel that embraces the rich culture of this historic city, known for its distinctive cuisine and its geisha and samurai heritage. Conveniently located just steps from Kanazawa Station, the hotel serves as the ideal starting point for exploring the city's authentic art, shops, restaurants, and attractions. Unwind in one of the 253 hotel rooms and suites, where modern, light-filled spaces are adorned with art by local artists and eclectic touches that reflect the spirit of the historic city.
Today, immerse yourself in Kanazawa's rich history and culture as you explore its iconic landmarks. Begin your journey at Kanazawa Castle Park, where the reconstructed Kanazawa Castle stands as a symbol of the city's feudal past. Once the seat of the powerful Maeda clan, this sprawling park offers stunning views and a glimpse into the grandeur of Japan's samurai era. Next, visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most renowned landscape gardens, designed to embody all six elements of classical garden design: spaciousness, seclusion, serenity, subtlety, panoramic views, and water features. Stroll along its meticulously curated paths and admire the garden’s plum blossoms that starts showing from mid-february. Continue to the Nagamachi Samurai District, where narrow cobblestone lanes are lined with traditional samurai residences, preserving the historic atmosphere of the Edo period. Tour the restored Nomura Samurai House, featuring a stunning miniature garden best appreciated from its second-floor tea room. Finally, visit a historic tea room overlooking a serene garden to learn about the cultural significance of the Japanese tea ceremony. Under the guidance of an instructor, try your hand at making your own cup of tea, deepening your appreciation for this timeless tradition.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch
Hyatt Centric Kanazawa
Discover the best of Kanazawa at Hyatt Centric Kanazawa, an upscale lifestyle hotel that embraces the rich culture of this historic city, known for its distinctive cuisine and its geisha and samurai heritage. Conveniently located just steps from Kanazawa Station, the hotel serves as the ideal starting point for exploring the city's authentic art, shops, restaurants, and attractions. Unwind in one of the 253 hotel rooms and suites, where modern, light-filled spaces are adorned with art by local artists and eclectic touches that reflect the spirit of the historic city.
Today, we drive from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site set amidst the stunning Japanese Alps. Explore this charming village, famous for its iconic Gassho-Zukuri houses—traditional thatched-roof structures unique to the region. With steeply pitched roofs resembling hands folded in prayer, these architectural marvels reflect the ingenuity of the villagers in withstanding the region's harsh winters. Take time to wander through this picturesque setting and immerse yourself in its timeless beauty. Afterwards, we travel to Kaga Onsen, a small hot spring town. Upon arrival at the ryokan, the staff will warmly welcome us, offering the traditional Japanese hospitality known as Omotenashi, where guests are cared for with heartfelt attention. Your stay will provide a truly unique Japanese experience, from the way you dress, sleep, and bathe. Relax, embrace the tradition, and immerse yourself in the local customs. In the evening, experience a Japanese kaiseki style group dinner. Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dining experience, regarded as the pinnacle of Japanese cuisine. This culinary art form highlights seasonal ingredients, exquisite presentation, and a delicate balance of flavors. A typical kaiseki meal features a series of small dishes, each highlighting a unique element of Japanese cooking. The courses are served in a specific sequence, beginning with light appetizers, followed by more substantial dishes, and concluding with a dessert.
Meal
Breakfast, Dinner
Rurikoh
Rurikoh was named after "Rurikoh Hot Spring Source," the source of Yamashiro Onsen. We propose new, appealing ways to provide hot springs, which will be desired at Japanese inns in the future, while valuing the hospitality based on the traditional cultures of the Kaga Onsen Town.
This morning, enjoy the onsen baths and ryokan before we take the train to Kyoto. In Kyoto visit Kiyomizudera, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the scenic hills of Eastern Kyoto. Marvel at the exquisite wooden architecture that stretches over a steep hillside, offering sweeping views of Kyoto’s landscape. The day concludes in the atmospheric Gion district, Kyoto’s renowned Geisha quarter. Here, you’ll find traditional wooden machiya houses, many of which serve as tea houses where Geishas entertain their distinguished guests.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel Vischio Kyoto
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia is conveniently located just a short walk from Kyoto Station. The property offers sophisticated, modern rooms with all the essentials including comfortable beds and spacious layouts. The hotel's relaxed ambiance, friendly service, and convenient amenities like a fitness center and restaurant make it a great base for exploring Kyoto.
Today, head to the foothills of Northern and Western Kyoto, beginning with a visit to Kinkaku-ji, the Zen Buddhist temple also known as the Golden Pavilion. The temple's top two floors are entirely covered in gold leaf, creating a stunning sight. Your guide will escort you through the beautiful gardens to the tea house, where you will exit the temple. In Arashiyama, explore Tenryu-ji, a Zen temple known for one of the finest gardens in Kyoto. Upon exiting the temple through the north gate, you'll stroll through the dense bamboo forest, offering a serene and atmospheric experience. Then, there will be some time to explore Arashiyama at your own pace, to walk along the Katsuragawa River or visit some of the shops.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel Vischio Kyoto
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia is conveniently located just a short walk from Kyoto Station. The property offers sophisticated, modern rooms with all the essentials including comfortable beds and spacious layouts. The hotel's relaxed ambiance, friendly service, and convenient amenities like a fitness center and restaurant make it a great base for exploring Kyoto.
Today, enjoy Kyoto at leisure, a city where tradition meets tranquility at every turn. Take in the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, all at your own pace. Our guide will be on hand to recommend personalized activities tailored to your interests. In the evening, enjoy a final group farewell dinner.
Meal
Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel Vischio Kyoto
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia is conveniently located just a short walk from Kyoto Station. The property offers sophisticated, modern rooms with all the essentials including comfortable beds and spacious layouts. The hotel's relaxed ambiance, friendly service, and convenient amenities like a fitness center and restaurant make it a great base for exploring Kyoto.
Sayonara, farewell, our tour concludes today. You will be transferred to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka International Airport (ITM) for your departure flight.
Meal
Breakfast
