Japan: Beyond the Ordinary

Board your International flight to Tokyo Japan. You need a valid Canadian or American Passport to enter Japan; it must be valid for six to eight months from your exact return date and have blank pages.

Upon arrival in Tokyo (at either Haneda or Narita Airport), you will be met by a representative with a signboard at the airport exit. They will then assist you with your hotel transfer. Rest of the day at leisure to enjoy the bustling energy of the world’s largest metropolis, where tall skyscrapers stand alongside tranquil gardens and shrines. Overnight Tokyo.

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby before departing for a full day of guided sightseeing in Tokyo. Begin with a visit to Hamarikyu Garden, a tranquil Edo-period landscape garden set against the city’s modern skyline. Continue to Nakamise Street in Asakusa, lined with traditional snack and souvenir shops, then visit the historic Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Travel onward to Ueno, home to the elegant Toshogu Shrine and the scenic Shinobazu Pond, a peaceful oasis within bustling Ueno Park. In the afternoon, explore Meiji Shrine, nestled in a forested area in the heart of the city and dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Conclude the day in Shibuya, experiencing the world-famous Shibuya Crossing and stopping by the iconic Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty and one of Tokyo’s most beloved landmarks. Free time after the tour to explore and perhaps take advantage of the district’s many shopping and dining opportunities. *Sightseeing transfers via Tokyo Metro. Overnight Tokyo.

Free day at leisure in Tokyo. *Yanesen Half-Day Walking Tour Available for an Additional Cost. Overnight Tokyo.

Meet your guide at the hotel entrance before departing by train to the historic coastal city of Kamakura (approximately 1-1.5 hours each way). Once the political center of medieval Japan, Kamakura is home to many of the country’s most important temples and shrines. Begin with a visit to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura’s most significant Shinto shrine, set along a grand approach lined with seasonal flowers and traditional architecture. Continue to the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a monumental bronze statue standing serenely in the open air. Continue to Hase Temple, beautifully situated on a hillside overlooking the coast. Explore its peaceful gardens, caves, and terraces while enjoying panoramic views of Kamakura and Sagami Bay. After a full day of exploration, return to Tokyo by train in the evening. Overnight Tokyo.

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby before transferring to Shinagawa Station to board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagoya (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes). From Nagoya, continue by express train to Takayama (approximately 2.5 hours), enjoying scenic views of Japan’s countryside and alpine regions along the way. Upon arrival in Takayama, begin sightseeing with a visit to Takayama Jinya, a well-preserved former government office from the Edo period. Continue to Kami Sannomachi, the heart of Takayama Old Town, where beautifully restored merchant houses line narrow streets filled with sake breweries, traditional craft shops, and local eateries. Spend time exploring the historic district at a relaxed pace, soaking in the town’s traditional atmosphere and mountain charm. Later in the afternoon, transfer to your hotel for check-in and enjoy time to unwind in a traditional Japanese hot spring onsen, a perfect way to relax after the day’s travel and sightseeing. *Luggage will be delivered from Tokyo and collected in Kyoto on Day 08. A small overnight bag can be brought for the Takayama & Kanazawa stay. Overnight Takayama.

Meet at Takayama Bus Center to take the Nohi Bus for the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go (approximately 50 minutes), traveling through scenic mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, explore Shirakawa-go Village, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Enjoy time to stroll through the village, visit preserved homes, and take in panoramic countryside views. Continue by Nohi Bus to Kanazawa (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes). Upon arrival, enjoy free time for lunch, with opportunities to sample local specialties such as fresh seafood or regional dishes. In the afternoon, begin with a visit to the historic Nomura Samurai House, offering insight into the lifestyle of Kanazawa’s former warrior class. Continue walking through the atmospheric Nagamachi Samurai District, where narrow lanes and earthen walls preserve the feel of Japan’s feudal past. Conclude the day at Kenrokuen Garden, celebrated as one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens, featuring ponds, bridges, teahouses, and seasonal scenery. Free time to explore after sightseeing, then make your own way to your hotel for Check-In. Overnight in Kanazawa.

Self-guided transfer by bullet train to Kyoto (tickets included) - Approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival in Kyoto, meet our representative who will assist you with your transfer to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure in Kyoto. Overnight in Kyoto.

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby before departing for a full day of guided sightseeing in Kyoto. Begin with a visit to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of the Tokugawa shoguns. Continue to Kinkakuji (The Golden Pavilion), Kyoto’s iconic Zen temple covered in gold leaf and reflected beautifully in its surrounding pond and gardens. Next, visit nearby Ryoanji Temple, famous for its minimalist rock garden and Zen design. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading west to the Arashiyama. In Arashiyama, explore Tenryuji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site with a stunning landscaped garden, followed by a walk through the enchanting Bamboo Grove. Conclude the day with a visit to Togetsukyo Bridge, a scenic landmark spanning the Katsura River and offering lovely views of the surrounding mountains. After the tour, explore on your own or return to your hotel. *Sightseeing transfers via Public Transportation. Overnight in Kyoto.

Breakfast at your hotel, then enjoy a free day at leisure in Kyoto. *Nara & Fushimi Inari Tour Available for an Additional Cost. Overnight in Kyoto.

Checkout and then take an airport shuttle to Kansai International Airport for your departure home. *Tour Extension to Hiroshima & Osaka available for an additional cost.