Cultures of Japan
Independent Tour
Explore the culture of Japan on this 14-night tour. Beginning in Tokyo, journey to some of the most historic parts of Japan. You will enjoy many tours with local guides who delight in sharing their regions with you. Special highlights are a walking tour of Hida Furukawa, a Bento Box cooking class and a unique stay in Koya-san.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
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Day 13
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Day 14
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Day 15
Day 1 : Tokyo
On arrival in Tokyo, you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel, check in for your 3-night stay.
Day 2 : Tokyo
Enjoy a 4-hour private tour of Tokyo’s main highlights with an English-speaking guide. Begin your day with a visit to the Asakusa District, once an entertainment district in the Edo era, but now, home to charming shops and restaurants and the oldest temple in the city, Sensoji. You will also visit Meiji Shrine, one of the most famous Shinto shrines and then to Shibuya, one of the most famous shopping locations in Tokyo.
Day 3 : Tokyo
The day is free for you to explore. Teamlab Tokyo ticket is included, a museum for the new generation combining digital art and the beauty of nature.
Day 4 : Matsumoto
Journey by train today to Matsumoto, located in the Japanese Alps. Check in for your 1-night stay.
Day 5 : Matsumoto and Takayama
Meet your private guide for a 4-hour tour of scenic and historic Matsumoto. You will be provided with a day pass which can be used to ride any of the 4 'Sneaker' buses to explore this small city. Start at Black Crow Castle, one of only twelve original castles in Japan, Its turret structure and characteristic black wainscoting give an air of grandeur and poise. The wooden interior is one of the very few not reconstructed in ferro-concrete, making it one of the most authentic experiences of feudal Japan. After your tour, you will transfer to Takayama for your next 2 nights.
Day 6 : Takayama
This afternoon experience the charms of rural Japan on a relaxing afternoon walking tour of Hida-Furukawa. The tour begins after a short train journey from Takayama to Hida-Furakawa station, where you will be met by a local tour guide. Hida-Furukawa is small mountain town famous for its woodworking and skilled carpenters. The town is very well preserved, with charming canal-lined streets and traditional white-walled buildings. This tour offers you the ideal chance to experience a small Japanese town through the eyes of a local resident. You will be charmed by this peaceful little town and fascinated by its rich culture and history.
Day 7 : Kyoto
Travel by rail today to Kyoto, on arrival check in for a 3-night stay
Day 8 : Kyoto
Explore the former imperial capital of Japan today with a knowledgeable local guide, utilising Kyoto’s comprehensive bus system to visit some of the city’s famous World Heritage Sites. Start your day with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) which was originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun but, at his request, became a Buddhist Temple after his death. Next, make your way to Nijo Castle, an ornamental castle built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate and surrounded by stunning gardens. famous for its architecture, decorated sliding doors and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors. Then, head to Heian Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of the first and last emperors who reigned from the city, Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei. Finally, make a visit to Kiyomizu Temple (Pure Water Temple) and enjoy the panoramic views of Kyoto from the 13-metre-high veranda jutting out from the Main Hall. Learn about the interesting history of the building and how both the Main Hall and Veranda were built without the use of nails or any kind of joiners.
Day 9 : Kyoto
Enjoy a morning Bento Class, a great way to learn about typical Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, and miso soup. During the 3-hour class, your teacher will demonstrate and explain the tricks to making these beautiful dishes, then you will give it a try. After preparing, you will enjoy the lunch you just made.
Day 10 : Naoshima
Your next bullet train journey brings you to Okayama. On arrival a transfer will bring you to your hotel for your 2-night stay.
Day 11 : Okayama and Naoshima
Your guide will meet you at your hotel to travel off the beaten track to Naoshima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea that is known for its modern art museum, architecture and sculptures. The island has a Mediterranean atmosphere with sandy beaches, sunny weather and a laid-back rural feel. The main draw for the island is its installations and sculptures, giving it the title of Art Island. In addition, the islands municipal buildings and schools were designed by the modern architect Ishii Kazuhiro. Included in your visit are the Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House Museum. You will also be given free time to explore on your own by foot or maybe rent a bicycle. Your guide will accompany you to your hotel at the end of the tour.
Day 12 : Osaka
Board your next train to Kyoto. Meet your guide and your Kyoto adventure begins. Your first stop will be Kiyomizudera, one of the most celebrated temples in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Kiyomizudera and Otowa Waterfall. You will also experience a traditional kimono wearing tea ceremony with a Tea Master at Kyo-machiya traditional wooden house.
Day 13 : Koya-San
Travel by rail today to Koya-san (via Gokurakubashi). On arrival check into your unique accommodation at Eko-in, This is an unforgettable stay experience in a Buddhist temple. Koya-san Eko-in offers Japanese-style accommodation with a beautiful garden and voluminous Syojin cuisine in your room. Have a pleasant stay in the quaint old temple which is different from a ryokan or a hotel. Guests are free to attend Buddhist morning services, the Goma fire ritual and meditation.
Day 14 : Osaka
Your package ends with the check out from your hotel and a private transfer to the airport.
Day 15 : Departure
Your package ends with the check out from your hotel and a private transfer to the airport.
