Day 1: Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.
Day 2: Tokyo
In the morning, we’ll take a long guided tour—about five hours—through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.We’ll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You’ll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, said to be the busiest intersection in the world. Then we’ll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.We’ll continue our tour by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue, explore the most scenic part of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, and stop to visit the famous Nijubashi Bridge.We’ll drive through AKIHABARA, the “Electric City,” known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture. Then we’ll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included), Japan’s tallest structure, where we’ll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.We’ll end our visit in ASAKUSA, where we’ll explore Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel.6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.
Day 3: Tokyo - Mount Fuji - Kawaguchiko
We travel toward the beautiful Mount Fuji area, enjoying the scenic landscapes along our route. Our first stop is Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its beautiful pagodas and for offering some of the most iconic and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.We then continue to KAWAGUCHIKO, an idyllic town of charming houses, flowers, and mountains beside a stunning lake. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a magical place surrounded by tall trees — traditionally the starting point of the pilgrimage up Mount Fuji. We’ll take a moment to give thanks at the shrine for the opportunity to visit such a spiritually rich and enchanting site.Afterward, we’ll enjoy a pleasant boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, then begin our ascent toward Mount Fuji via the road that leads to the “Fifth Station.” Driving through spectacular forests and landscapes, we’ll reach an altitude of 2,305 meters (7,562 feet).Note: In winter, the route to the Fifth Station is often closed due to snow or weather conditions; during those times, we’ll go as far as we’re permitted.We’ll return to Kawaguchiko and stay overnight at a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where you can relax and enjoy the Onsen (public hot spring bath). Dinner included.Note: In the planned Ryokan, some rooms are Japanese-style with tatami mats, while others are Western-style. Occasionally, accommodation may be provided in a Western-style hotel instead.
Day 4: Kawaguchiko - Iyashi No Sato Nenba - Toyota - Kyoto
In the morning, we’ll follow a scenic road that winds around picturesque lakes to visit Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a small village that was destroyed by a typhoon in 1966 and later restored as an open-air museum. Its traditional houses have been converted into arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.Next, we’ll visit the breathtaking Shiraito Falls, one of Japan’s most stunning natural attractions, with cascading water that spans a height of 20 meters.From there, we’ll continue to Nagoya, where we’ll visit the Toyota Museum (admission included), a must-see destination for car enthusiasts and those curious about automotive innovation.Finally, we’ll proceed to Kyoto for our overnight stay.
Day 5: Kyoto
We’ll spend the entire day exploring Kyoto, Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to retain its rich artistic heritage. Notably, the Kyoto Protocol, aimed at limiting greenhouse gas emissions, was signed here in 1997.We’ll include a visit to Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Our tour will begin in Arashiyama, where we’ll admire the Togetsukyo Bridge, or “Bridge over the Moon.” This spot offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape.We’ll then visit the Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s “five great Zen temples” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a serene walk through its mystical bamboo forest.Next, we’ll explore the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine; the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by its spectacular gardens. (The order of the visits may vary.)After the tour, you can enjoy some time to stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s vibrant traditional district, known for its lively atmosphere and geishas.
Day 6: Kyoto - Eihei-ji - Katsuyama-dinosaur museum - Katsuyama - Kanazawa
We’ll start our day with breakfast before departing along one of the largest lakes in Japan. Our first stop will be at Shirahige Ginra, a small shrine located by the lake. We’ll then head to Eihei-ji, a temple-monastery founded in 1244 and a central hub of Zen Buddhism in Japan (admission included). Its surroundings, architecture, gardens, and spiritual ambiance make it a key training center for monks who practice Zazen meditation and follow a strict daily diet. Next, in Katsuyama, we’ll visit three key sites. First, the Dinosaur Museum, located at the largest dinosaur fossil site in Japan, where you’ll have free time for lunch and to explore its educational exhibits featuring over 40 dinosaur skeletons. Then, we’ll visit the Great Buddha of Echizen and its grand temple, along with a five-story pagoda, which we can climb to enjoy panoramic views. We’ll arrive in Kanazawa by evening.
Day 7: Kanazawa
We’ll spend a full day in Kanazawa, beginning with a guided city tour in the morning. This city, which once rivaled Kyoto and Tokyo, was spared from destruction during World War II air raids. We’ll visit the castle area, with its impressive walls, and take a stroll through the historic Nagamachi neighborhood, where samurai and their families once lived. This area preserves its historical atmosphere with remaining residences, earthen walls, private entrance gates, narrow alleys, and water canals. We’ll also include admission to Kenrokuen, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. The tour will end at Omicho, a lively traditional market with many options for lunch. The afternoon will be free for you to explore.
Day 8: Kanazawa - Ainokura - Shirakawa - Hida village - Takayama
Today, we’ll journey through beautiful mountain landscapes, forests, and traditional villages as we explore the Gokayama and Shirakawago regions. These villages have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and their traditional houses, with steeply sloped roofs, are known as “praying hands” for their resemblance to monks´ hands joined in prayer—designed to withstand heavy winter snowfalls. We’ll stop in Ainokura, a charming small village, and in Shirakawa-go Ogimachi, a larger, more popular village. There will be time to stroll and enjoy lunch. Afterward, we’ll continue to Takayama, where we’ll visit the Hida Folk Village Museum, nestled in a peaceful setting. This open-air museum features over 30 traditional houses from the Edo Period (1603-1868), relocated from their original sites to form this museum in 1971. The buildings showcase tools and utensils used in everyday life in the past. We’ll then have free time to explore the old town, with its wooden houses and traditional shops.
Day 9: Takayama - Hida furukawa - Matsumoto - Nagano
After breakfast, we’ll depart for Hida Furukawa, where we’ll stroll through its charming old town. The city’s festival has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, known for its large drums and beautifully decorated floats. We’ll include admission to the museum, which showcases the festival’s floats, costumes, and drums. We’ll then continue our journey across the Japanese Alps, renowned for their snow-covered landscapes for much of the year. Upon arrival in Matsumoto, we’ll visit the city’s impressive castle, known as the "Crow Castle" due to its black color, dating back to the 16th century. Afterward, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and explore the town. In the afternoon, we’ll head to Nagano for accommodation.
Day 10: Nagano - Monkey Park - Kusatsu - Ikaho
In NAGANO, we’ll visit Zenko-ji Temple, a famous pilgrimage site that houses Japan’s first Buddhist image. Our travelers will also take part in the Gomakuyo ceremony, a traditional ritual meant to attract good fortune.Afterwards, we’ll venture into the stunning Japanese Alps, traveling through majestic mountain scenery to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. We’ll take a walk through the forested trails, rivers, and hot springs where colonies of Japanese macaques live and bathe in the warm waters.We’ll then continue through beautiful high-mountain landscapes (reaching an altitude of 2,172 meters / 7,126 feet) and pass by semi-active volcanoes. Our next stop is KUSATSU, a charming hot-spring town whose lively central square is full of activity. We’ll take a pleasant stroll through the city park, which features open-air onsen (hot springs). Free time for lunch.Our journey continues to IKAHO, another picturesque hot-spring town. We’ll stroll through its old center, famous for its traditional stone stairways. We’ll stay overnight in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where we recommend enjoying the hot-spring baths. Traditional Japanese dinner included.Note: In autumn, depending on the availability of food in the mountains, the movement of the monkeys can be unpredictable. If the macaques do not come down to the park, it may be closed. The visit to Kusatsu may also be canceled due to weather conditions from November to April.
Day 11: Ikaho - Nikko - Sendai
We’ll continue our journey to Nikko, a captivating town where we’ll visit the impressive Nikko-Toshogu Temple, famed for its “room with the sound of a dragon.” We’ll also explore the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a tranquil site that radiates peace. Afterward, we’ll take a leisurely stroll along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues quietly watch over the river.You’ll then have free time to explore the town center before we proceed to Sendai, a vibrant and modern city with over one million inhabitants. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the bustling streets and enjoy dinner in its lively city center.
Day 12: Sendai - Matsushima - Hiraizumi - Morioka
We’ll depart for the marvelous city of Matsushima, located on the “Thousand Islands” Bay in the Pacific Ocean, considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Japan. Upon arrival, we’ll visit a magnificent tea house overlooking the sea, where we’ll enjoy a cup of traditional tea as our guide shares fascinating insights about the city. Then, we’ll embark on a 50-minute cruise and enjoy some lunch on board. After, our tour will cintinue to Hiraizumi, where we’ll visit its historic temples, starting with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Takkoku no Iwaya, carved into the rock in 801. We’ll then explore the magnificent Buddhist temples of Chusonji and enjoy a peaceful moment in the gardens of Motsuji Temple, where passengers can participate in a Zen ceremony (admission included). conclude the day in Morioka, the charming capital of Iwate Province, where we’ll settle into our hotel and enjoy some free time to explore.
Day 13: Morioka - Hirosaki - Aomori - Hakodate
We’ll travel through a region of stunning landscapes to Hirosaki, where we’ll visit its iconic castle, set within a beautiful park that bursts into color each spring with more than 2,500 cherry trees in bloom.We’ll then continue to Aomori, the provincial capital on Mutsu Bay. Here, we’ll visit the Nebuta Museum to learn about Japan’s vibrant festival traditions, reminiscent of carnival celebrations, featuring beautifully painted and illuminated floats. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.Afterward, we’ll board a ferry to cross to the island of Hokkaido, enjoying a scenic journey of just over three and a half hours. Upon arrival in Hakodate, we’ll explore its charming historic district, where we can admire the city’s cultural influences, including the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian churches.
Day 14: Hakodate - Onuma - Noboribetsu - Sapporo
In the morning, we’ll visit the lively and bustling fish market, a fascinating glimpse into local culture. We’ll also go up Goryokaku Tower, where we’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and appreciate the star-shaped design of Hakodate’s historic fortress. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the castle area before we continue to Onuma.In this magnificent natural setting, dotted with countless small islands, you’ll have free time to take a boat ride or stroll along scenic walking trails. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.In the afternoon, we’ll journey along the coastline to Noboribetsu, an awe-inspiring volcanic landscape. We’ll walk among the steam vents of Jigokudani (Hell Valley), admire the misty waters of Lake Oyunuma, and follow the trail along the hot spring river to a scenic spot where you can enjoy a relaxing foot bath.Later, we’ll continue to Sapporo, arriving in the evening at this beautiful northern capital of Japan.
Day 15: Sapporo
We’ll go on a city tour with stops at the iconic Clock Tower and Odori Koen, the beautiful park-lined avenue dominated by the towering Sapporo TV Tower. We’ll also visit the stunning Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we’ll take part in a Kito, a traditional ceremonial prayer to express gratitude for our journey.On the outskirts of Sapporo, we’ll visit the Hill of Buddha, a striking example of avant-garde architecture inaugurated in 2015. This lavender-covered hilltop is home to a massive Buddha statue, and within the complex, we’ll also see replicas of the famous Moai statues from Easter Island.Our journey continues to Otaru, a charming town reminiscent of Europe, with lively shopping streets, a historic canal, and quaint museums. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.We’ll return to Sapporo around 3:30 p.m. The rest of the afternoon will be free for you to explore at your leisure.
Day 16: Sapporo
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
