Day 1 (9/10) - Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo, the nation’s capital! Did you know that with over 9 million residents, Tokyo is classified as the largest city in the world? And that's not even counting the neighboring cities in the Greater Tokyo region, bringing the number to a whopping 36 million! A private car will collect you from the airport and take you to your accommodations for the next few days. We will not schedule too much for your first day to allow you to rest after a long flight.
Day 2 (9/11) - Tokyo
Your first full day will start with a guided walking tour of Tokyo. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and not only introduce you to some of the city’s most quintessential neighborhoods, historical sites and architecture , but also explain a number of important cultural customs that you will find useful on your trip. They will also orientate you to Japan’s extensive train system which you will use while traveling. Stops for today will include Tokyo’s oldest temple and neighboring shrine (the perfect place to learn about the differences between Japan’s Shinto and Buddhist religions), the vibrant and quirky anime mecca of Akihabara, and a visit to one of Tokyo’s sake tasting centers which may be a fun way to learn what sake goes best with which foods as you travel! In the evening head to the Kabukicho entertainment district and Golden Gai to experience Tokyo's night life. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: Yes
Day 3 (9/12) - Tokyo
Did you know that sumo wrestling is less of a sport and more of a religious ceremony? Your timing to Japan is perfect as it just so happens to coincide with the September sumo tournament. Witness the pure skill and power that these warriors possess as you enjoy one of the biggest events of the season. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: No
Day 4 (9/13) - Kawaguchi day trip
No trip to Japan would be complete without seeing one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks the majestic Mt Fuji, and you will have the privilege of seeing it right up close as you travel to its base near the stunning Lake Kawaguchi. After stopping by the Chureito pagoda which offers one of the most iconic views of Mt Fuji in the entire country, you'll head to the Aokigahara forest which, although having a somewhat sombre history, is absolutely beautiful. There is an entire religion surrounding Mt Fuji and the area around the mountain is dotted with several shrines integral to worship of Mt Fuji’s spirit. Mt Fuji is also surrounded by caves which are actually old lava tunnels carved out by the magma from Mt Fuji aeons ago. It is also home to a beautiful traditional crafting village. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: Yes
Day 5 (9/14) - Kanazawa
Today, you will board your first bullet train to the city of Kanazawa which has extremely well preserved elements of the Edo period. After meeting your guide, your first stop is Kenrokuen, a huge park right in the middle of the town and one of the three finest landscape gardens in Japan. This charming park is home to one of Japan's oldest fountains and is a magnificent place to visit in all seasons. Next door you’ll also find the impressive Kanazawa Castle which in the past was an important seat of power for the Maeda clan. After getting your fill of history about the city of gold, you’ll make your way to your traditional ryokan inn to retire for the evening. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: Yes
Day 6 (9/15) - Kanazawa
Today will be all about taking in the warrior history and geisha culture of Kanazawa. First stop is the geisha Chaya district whose streets are a blast from the past. Scattered with quaint shops selling traditional wares and sweets, leisurely wander between the wooden walls of its many ryokan and ancient houses. Next on the list is the samurai district which will take you back in time to the Edo period when this city rivalled Tokyo and Kyoto in its cultural achievements! You’ll visit one of the city’s most well preserved samurai homes where you’ll get a glimpse into the lifestyle that these historic warriors enjoyed.The rest of the day will be free for you to explore some of Kanazawa’s other sights at your own pace. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: No
Day 7 (9/16) - Kyoto
Today you will bid farewell to the city of gold and hop on the bullet train to Kyoto. This former capital of Japan is absolutely bursting with history and culture and nowhere is this clearer than in its geisha and maiko. Look forward to a performance from one of Japan’s finest entertainers as well as the opportunity to play games and ask questions about the geisha lifestyle as you experience this ancient art form. In the evening head to what is arguably the most famous shrine in Japan, Fushimi Inari. Featured in the movie 'Memoirs of a Geisha', this shrine has over 10 000 picturesque red 'torii' gates donated by people and various businesses from all over Japan as a sign of appreciation to the god Inari for blessings received. It is also special as it is one of the few shrines in Japan that is open 24 hours. You will visit it around sunset once the crowds have died down. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: No
Day 8 (9/17) - Kyoto
Day 9 will see you beginning your martial experience and making your own kogatana. The art of forging a katana is something that takes years to perfect, and today you’ll forge your very own kogatana (almost like a mini samurai sword) under the guidance of a master swordsmith. After engraving your name in Japanese on the hilt of your sword, you’ll not only have a souvenir to take home with you, but also an amazing story. In the evening why not head to the vibrant riverside area of Pontocho for an evening meal as you reflect on the memories you’ve made over the past week. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: No
Day 9 (9/18) - Kyoto
You’ll start your day with a guide in the tranquil Arashiyama district. This historic area is home to a number of ancient temples, one of which is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tenryuji temple. Take in the beauty of its tranquil zen garden as well at the famous bamboo grove nearby before shifting gears. Your afternoon will be spent learning the art of Japanese kendo swordfighting from your very own budo instructor. Not only will you get dressed in the full kendo armor while learning the basics of this historical martial art, but also put your skills to the test against each other and your classmates with a friendly tournament at the end of the session. This experience will also give you an insight into the culture of honor in Japan which is heavily influenced by its martial practices and history. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: Yes
Day 10 (9/19) - Tokyo
Enjoy another high speed bullet train ride today as you return to Tokyo and see the city from a different viewpoint with a heart pumping Mario Kart gokart tour! Please remember to bring your international driving permits. In the evening you can look forward to enjoying another national pastime, baseball. The most popular sport in the entire country, even the most rural town will usually sport a batting cage. Your evening will be spent appreciating the love that locals have for this sport, and cheering on your favorite athletes at an exciting baseball match. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: Yes
Day 11 (9/20) - Tokyo
Bid farewell to Japan today as board your private car to the airport. Depending on what time your flight leaves, spend the morning exploring the stalls and alleys of Asakusa , or getting in some last minute souvenir shopping in Ginza before making your way back home. Meals: Breakfast Guided Tour: No
