Welcome to Japan!

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to our hotel in Ginza, Tokyo’s most prestigious district known for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Please join us for drinks this evening and enjoy beautiful, panoramic night views of Tokyo.

Accommodation: Deluxe 4.5-Star

Meals: None (Our hotel is surrounded by local dining options).

This morning, we’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and travel to the revered Meiji Shrine, an iconic testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Nestled within Tokyo’s vibrant urban landscape, this sacred sanctuary covers 700,000 square meters of forest and honors Emperor Meiji, the architect of modern Japan.

Next, we’ll explore vibrant Harajuku, a hub of pop culture. Dive into the sensory delights of Takeshita Street, where our senses are awakened by a symphony of vibrant street art, kawaii fashion, delectable delights ranging from crepes to cotton candy, and animal cafes.

This afternoon, we’ll have the option to return to the hotel, or take a leisurely walk along Omotesandō Avenue, known for its captivating street fashion, high end stores and beautiful cafes and restaurants.

Tonight, enjoy an informal welcome dinner where you can get to know your fellow travelers and Tour Host.

Accommodation: Deluxe 4.5-Star

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

We’ll start our day with a guided art and architecture walk through the fascinating streets of Ginza, a hub of modernist architecture, featuring stunning buildings and charming back alleyways waiting to be explored.

Next, we’ll attend the opening ceremony of a renowned department store, followed by leisure time to explore one of Tokyo’s famous depachika (department store food halls). Ginza Mitsukoshi, often called “The Harrods of Japan,” offers a wide array of gourmet delights.

Accommodation: Deluxe 4.5-Star    Meals: Breakfast

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Asakusa, Tokyo’s historic downtown, to visit Sensoji Temple, a famous Buddhist temple built in the 7th century. We’ll also stroll down Nakamise-dori shopping street, where you can watch street food being made, including freshly roasted rice crackers and bean-paste dumplings.

Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

After breakfast and check-out, we’ll take a private transfer to Tokyo Station. We’ll board a sleek and efficient bullet train bound for Kanazawa (2.5 hours), where a delightful change of pace awaits after the bustling metropolis of Tokyo.

In the afternoon, we’ll meet with our local guide and explore the historic Samurai District by private bus. Here, samurai homes are nestled among narrow lanes and canals behind earthen walls and private entrance gates. We’ll visit the restored Nomura Samurai Family Residence, meticulously restored to offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the samurai during feudal times.

Accommodation: Superior 4.0-Star   Meals: Breakfast

Next, we’ll head to the Nishi Chaya District to browse artisan workshops and boutiques, where you can find unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs crafted by local artisans.

Kanazawa boasts an outstanding culinary scene. Savor world-class sushi, experience an intimate kaiseki meal, indulge in delicious noodles, enjoy numerous wagashi breaks, and top it all off with gold leaf-covered soft serve ice cream. This evening, enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Luggage will be transferred to the hotel in Kyoto separately. Please prepare an overnight bag for 2 nights in Kanazawa.

After breakfast, we’ll meet our local guide in the hotel lobby and head to Higashi Chaya, Kanazawa’s fascinating Geisha district. Along the main thoroughfare, now adorned with charming cafes and boutique shops, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the exquisite craftsmanship of gold leaf products at a specialized store, and marvel at the timeless elegance of a traditional Shima tea house.

Next, we will visit the 21st Century Art Museum. Get ready for an incredible experience of contemporary art and architecture!

The “Princess of Polka Dots” Yayoi Kusama and the creator of “Campbell’s Soup Cans,” Andy Warhol are just some of the prominent artists included in its collection.

From the Museum we will walk the short distance to the Kenroku-en Garden, classified one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens…a perfect garden. Our bus will return us to our hotel mid-afternoon.

Accommodation: Deluxe 4.5-Star    Meals: Breakfast

Today offers a leisurely opportunity to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s cultural riches. Whether you’re drawn to the serene Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), the contemplative beauty of the Philosopher’s Path, or the allure of artisanal treasures found in the city’s traditional shops, the day is yours to explore at your own pace.

Whichever path you choose, today promises an unforgettable journey through Kyoto’s cultural wonders and hidden gems, each moment inviting discovery and delight.

Accommodation: Deluxe 4.5-Star          Meals: Breakfast

For those seeking recommendations and suggestions:

• Delve into the rich history and craftsmanship of pottery and ceramic ware at Kawai Kanjiro’s House.
• Experience profound serenity amidst the 24 sub-temples of the Rinzai school of Zen at Daisen-In, known for its small and unique offerings.
• Uncover fabric treasures and sewing paraphernalia at Nomura Tailor Shop.
• Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Kyoto’s Gion Geisha District.

We’ll take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Hiroshima, then a bus and local ferry to Miyajima Island, home to the UNESCO World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine with its famous floating torii gate. At high tide, the gate appears to float on water, making it one of Japan’s top three most beautiful sights. Take time to explore the island’s attractions, eateries, cafes, and shops before heading back to the mainland.

In the afternoon, visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, along with the A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), the sole remaining structure amidst the devastation caused by the WWII atomic bomb in August 1945, now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Move to Orizuru Tower to learn how to create your own special origami crane offering for the Orizuru Wall.

For dinner, Hiroshima Station has a lot of restaurants, casual and otherwise, and the best Okonomyaki (Japanese cabbage pancakes) you will ever eat!

Finally, return to Kyoto by the bullet train.

Accommodation: Deluxe 4.5-Star

Meals: Breakfast

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast and check-out, with a transfer included from your hotel in Kyoto to Osaka Airport.