Japan – Culture trip

Konichiwa and welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s ultra-modern capital! You will meet your driver at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) and be transferred to the hotel by shared shuttle.

Accommodation

Red Planet Asakusa

Meals Provided

None

After breakfast, we set off on a morning tour to explore Asakusa, a traditional or “shitamachi” area of the city since the Edo period in the 15th Century.

During your journey, you will get to wander down Nakamise Street for a glimpse at one of Tokyo’s oldest shopping arcades in action.

Wrap up your day at Kappabashi Kitchen Street for some time to enjoy its collection of restaurants and souvenir shops.

After you can enjoy an afternoon of exploration, take on some optional tours or simply relax back at the hotel.

Meet your guide at the hotel lobby in the evening and enjoy welcome dinner at a local restaurant making your way on foot.

Optional Tours

Afternoon sushi-making class – See Extras at Checkout

or

Taiko drumming experience – See Extras at Checkout

Accommodation

Red Planet Asakusa

Meals Provided

Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, we visit the majestic Mt. Fuji, the highest and most iconic mountain in Japan. This mountain, with its snow-covered peak, has inspired artists and poets throughout the centuries, becoming almost symbolic of Japan itself.

Our journey continues as we visit Oshino Hakkai, also known as “Oshino Eight-Ponds”, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll around tranquil waters, indulging in the pleasant atmosphere and scenery.

After sampling some local delicacies, we make our way towards Oshino Shinobi no Sato, the ninja village! Here you will learn about the history and culture associated with Ninjutsu martial arts, and have your photo taken with a Japanese ninja. Then visit the historical Shinto shrine at the foot of Mt. Fuji.

our tour continues with the unique 4D “Fuji Airways” experience. This spectacular ride gives you the illusion of flying over Mt. Fuji and the surrounding region and allows you to experience the mountain as it appears during different seasons.

Finally, we explore Kawaguchi-ko, one of the “Five Fuji Lakes”, often referred to as the “Gate to Mt. Fuji”.  This is the best location to admire the mountain and on a clear day, it is reflected in the mirror-like pool.

Head back to the hotel to rest up before we travel to a new destination tomorrow.

Accommodation

Red Planet Asakusa

Meals Provided

Breakfast

This morning, we transfer to Tokyo station and travel in comfort on Japan’s fast and efficient high-speed rail network. The trains travel at speeds of up to 300km/hr and cover the 552km distance to Shin-Osaka in approximately 2.5 hours!

Upon arrival, we will make our way to the hotel by public transport.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own leisure.

Optional Tours

Nightlife Osaka food tour – See Extras at Checkout

or

Osaka photo workshops by night – See Extras at Checkout

Accommodation

Shin Osaka Esaka Tokyu Rei Hotel

Meals Provided

Breakfast

Your day will start visiting Osaka castle with a guide by public transportation.

Osaka castle was built in 1583 as the intended capital of Japan before the capital was moved to Edo (now known as Tokyo). It is now a symbol of Osaka.

After Osaka castle, make our way to the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living which is a remarkable facility located in the North-eastern part of the Kita Area. The museum has re-created buildings and streets that show what life was like in Osaka in the past.

Enjoy the afternoon at your own leisure.

Accommodation

Shin Osaka Esaka Tokyu Rei Hotel

Meals Provided

Breakfast

After breakfast, we make our way to the hotel in Kyoto by public transportation.

Once we arrive you are free to explore Kyoto and check-in to the hotel. With over 2000 temples and shrines, there is always more to see!

Accommodation

Citadines Kyoto Karasuma-Gojo

Meals Provided

Breakfast

We begin our day by visiting the vast grounds of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises a number of impressive palaces, ruins and gardens.

Next, we make our way to Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as ‘Temple of the Golden Pavilion’, and gaze at the peaceful temple surrounded by still waters and a backdrop of lush forest.

After we head to Kyoto Imperial Palace and learn about the fascinating history of the emperors that resided there from as early as 1869.

We then make our way to the venue for a tea ceremony where you can try making a cup of tea under an English-speaking instructor’s guidance, as well as learn a wide range of Japanese culture, including tea room and tea tools, along with the history of the Way of Tea.

Accommodation

Citadines Kyoto Karasuma-Gojo

Meals Provided

Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a free day to explore the area, or embark on some optional tours!

Optional Tours

Real Kyoto back street cycling private tour – See Extras at Checkout

Geisha/Maiko performance evening – See Extras at Checkout

Accommodation

Citadines Kyoto Karasuma-Gojo

Meals Provided

Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a free day to explore the area, or embark on some optional tours!

Meet your guide at the hotel lobby in the evening and enjoy farewell dinner at a local restaurant making your way on foot.

Optional Tours

Nara half day tour – See Extras at Checkout

Farm visit and mochi-making experience half-day – See Extras at Checkout

Accommodation

Citadines Kyoto Karasuma-Gojo

Meals Provided

Breakfast & Dinner

Enjoy your final morning in Kyoto before departing to the airport for your flight.

Accommodation

None

Meals Provided

Breakfast