Japan Odyssey: Cherry Blossom Edition

Detail-Image

Amazing Experience

Overview

  • Arrive in Tokyo, Japan, exploring Meiji-jingu, Asakusa’s Senso-ji, Harajuku and glittering Ginza.
  • Daytrip to Hakone for ropeway over Owakudani, Lake Ashinoko cruise, Mount Fuji views.
  • Discover Kanazawa, Japan: Kenrokuen garden, samurai district, geisha teahouses, hands-on gold leaf crafting.
  • Wander UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go, then unwind in Kaga Onsen with kaiseki and soothing baths.
  • Embrace Kyoto’s icons—Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama bamboo, Kiyomizudera, Gion—plus a serene tea ceremony.

 

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

  • Travel insurance
  • International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • 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.

 

Arrive Tokyo

 

Your Accommodation

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.

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Today, explore the dynamic neighborhoods of Shibuya, Asakusa, and Ginza, each offering its 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 in Ginza, Tokyo's premier hub for entertainment, dining, and luxury shopping. Here, you'll find flagship stores of renowned Japanese and international brands, perfect for indulging in a little retail therapy.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

 

Tokyo

 

Your Accommodation

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.

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Today, embark on a day trip to Hakone, located about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Known for its famous hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji--the tallest and most iconic mountain in Japan--Hakone offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Departing Tokyo, we journey to this picturesque region. Upon arrival, we head to Sounzan to board the Hakone Ropeway gondola, which provides a breathtaking 30-minute ride over the Owakudani Valley. From above, you can observe the valley's bubbling sulfuric hot springs and steaming vents. The gondola ride concludes at Togendai Station, located on the shores of Lake Ashinoko, a crater lake formed by a volcanic eruption nearly 3,000 years ago.

Next, enjoy a scenic boat ride across the tranquil waters of Lake Ashinoko, with its spectacular views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting). The lake's serene setting and the mountain's majestic presence create a truly unforgettable experience.
After exploring Hakone's highlights, we return to Tokyo in the evening, enriched by a day filled with natural wonders and cultural insights.

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

 

Hakone

 

Your Accommodation

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.

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

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 on your own. Our guide will be on hand to recommend personalized activities tailored to your interests.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Tokyo at Leisure

 

Your Accommodation

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.

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

This morning, we travel by bullet train from Tokyo to Kanazawa.

Upon arrival, visit 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

 

Tokyo to Kanazawa

 

Your Accommodation

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.

Hyatt Centric Kanazawa

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 seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring and lush greenery in summer to autumn's fiery foliage and the tranquil snow-covered scenes of winter.

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

 

Kanazawa

 

Your Accommodation

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.

Hyatt Centric Kanazawa

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.

Afterward, 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

 

Kanazawa to Kaga Onsen

 

Your Accommodation

Mori no Sumika Resort and Spa

At Mori no Sumika Resort & Spa, the guest rooms are crafted to immerse you in a tranquil environment, blending seamlessly with nature. You can unwind in two different types of baths, allowing your fatigue to melt away as if you were in a secluded forest hot spring, embraced by the natural world. The rooms also offer a serene atmosphere where you can experience the seasonal beauty of the garden.

Mori no Sumika Resort and Spa

This morning, enjoy the onsen baths and ryokan before we take the train to Kyoto.

In the afternoon, visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine dedicated to the Shinto God of rice, renowned for its thousands of vibrant vermillion torii gates that wind through a forested path leading up to Mount Inari. Learn about the shrine's rich history and its spiritual importance as a long-standing place of worship and pilgrimage. Explore the hidden trails that lead to smaller shrines, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you'll encounter numerous fox statues, believed to be messengers of Inari, the deity of rice and prosperity. For the more energetic and adventurous, climb to the summit of Mount Inari, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto.

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

 

Kaga Onsen to Kyoto

 

Your Accommodation

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station is a stylish, modern hotel located just a short walk from Kyoto Station, providing easy access to the city's renowned temples, shrines, and cultural landmarks. The hotel features contemporary guest rooms, a fitness center, and on-site dining options that blend international flavors with local cuisine. Combining convenience, comfort, and traditional Japanese hospitality, it’s an ideal choice for leisure travelers.

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station Hotel

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.

Just down the street is Ryoan-ji, famous for its rock garden, which features a clever and minimalist arrangement of 15 stones. After some moments of reflection at the garden, you will depart and travel to the western side of Kyoto.
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 narrow alleys lined with dense bamboo groves, offering a serene and atmospheric experience.

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

 

Kyoto

 

Your Accommodation

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station is a stylish, modern hotel located just a short walk from Kyoto Station, providing easy access to the city's renowned temples, shrines, and cultural landmarks. The hotel features contemporary guest rooms, a fitness center, and on-site dining options that blend international flavors with local cuisine. Combining convenience, comfort, and traditional Japanese hospitality, it’s an ideal choice for leisure travelers.

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station Hotel

Today, enjoy Kyoto at leisure, a city where tradition meets tranquility at every turn. Wander through serene temples, stroll along peaceful bamboo groves, and experience the beauty of historical gardens. Explore the charming streets of Gion, where ancient teahouses and traditional architecture come to life. 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.

Meal

Breakfast

 

Kyoto at Leisure

 

Your Accommodation

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station is a stylish, modern hotel located just a short walk from Kyoto Station, providing easy access to the city's renowned temples, shrines, and cultural landmarks. The hotel features contemporary guest rooms, a fitness center, and on-site dining options that blend international flavors with local cuisine. Combining convenience, comfort, and traditional Japanese hospitality, it’s an ideal choice for leisure travelers.

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station Hotel

Today, step into a realm of tranquility and spiritual reverence at Sanjusangendo, home to over 1,001 life-sized statues of Senju Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Each statue, painstakingly crafted over centuries, symbolizes Kannon's infinite compassion and power.
Next, 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.

Take a leisurely walk through the historic streets of Ichinenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Sannenzaka. These narrow, cobblestone paths transport you to ancient Kyoto, lined with well-preserved wooden houses. Be sure to capture the iconic sight of the five-story Yasaka Pagoda at Hokanji Temple.

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.
In the evening, enjoy a final group farewell dinner.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

 

Kyoto

 

Your Accommodation

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station is a stylish, modern hotel located just a short walk from Kyoto Station, providing easy access to the city's renowned temples, shrines, and cultural landmarks. The hotel features contemporary guest rooms, a fitness center, and on-site dining options that blend international flavors with local cuisine. Combining convenience, comfort, and traditional Japanese hospitality, it’s an ideal choice for leisure travelers.

DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station Hotel

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

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