Japan

Japan is a country where the past meets the future; with ancient temples and kimono-clad geisha hurrying between traditional tea houses in Kyoto, to lightning-fast bullet trains connecting the high-tech cities of Osaka and Tokyo. Although it is the tenth most densely populated nation in the world with a population of 127 million – and 30 million in the greater metropolitan Tokyo area alone – Japan possesses vast stunning areas of rural, unpopulated wilderness. One misplaced view is that Japan’s position as one of the world’s richest nations makes it an expensive holiday destination. In reality, it can be cheaper to travel in Japan than in most Western countries. The “Land of the Rising Sun” is a destination like no other, offering heritage and history one day and hi-tech city living the next.

Destinations

Key sights to see

Tokyo

A city of contrasts, Tokyo is famous for its pioneering modernity, soaring skyscrapers, and world-class shopping, as well as its temples, shrines, and bonsai gardens. Some of the most famous sights in the city include the Senso-ji temple, the Meiji Shrine, the Skytree tower, the Ginza shopping district, the Shinjuku Gyoen National park and Hamarikyu Gardens, and the Tsukiji Temple & Fish Market.

Hakone & Mt. Fuji

Located less than 100 km from Tokyo, Hakone is famous for its spectacular views of Mount Fuji from scenic Lake Ashi, its hot springs (called "onsen"), the many Ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) that offer onsen facilities, and various outdoor activities and cultural sights. The most popular attractions are a boat ride on Lake Ashi, and a ride on the Hakone Ropeway, which provides panoramic views of the area.

Kyoto

Kyoto is the Japan’s former capital and was the residence of the emperor from 794 until 1868. With 2,000 religious buildings, including 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, as well as palaces, gardens and associated architecture, it is one of the best-preserved cities in Japan. Kyoto is also famous for its traditional Japanese culture, such as geisha and tea ceremonies, and for its crafts, such as pottery and textiles.

Nara

Nara is a city that predates Kyoto. It was Japan’s capital from 1710 to 1784. The city's key attractions include the Kasuga Taisha shrine established in 768 AD, the Todaiji Temple, the world's largest wooden building and home to Japan's largest bronze Buddha statue, Nara Park, the beautiful Isuien Garden, and the historic Naramichi merchant district, which showcases some exceptionally well preserved "machiya," or traditional Japanese town houses.

Hiroshima

On August 6, 1945, Hiroshima was devastated by the first-ever wartime use of an atomic bomb. The Atomic Dome is one of the few buildings that survived the blast and remains standing. The nearby Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park features numerous monuments, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and the Children's Peace Monument. Despite its tragic past, Hiroshima today is a thriving, modern city with several cultural, natural and culinary attractions.

Miyajima/Itsukushima Island – Floating Torii Gate

Miyajima, officially known as Itsukushima Island, is a picturesque island located in Hiroshima Bay. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the iconic red "floating" Torii gate of the Shrine, one of the most photographed and iconic landmarks in Japan. Miyajima Island is accessible from Hiroshima by ferry in about 10-15 minutes.

Osaka

Osaka is the the third-largest city in the country and an eclectic mix of traditional and modern. Some of the key sights in the city include the Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 16th century, the Dotonbori, a lively entertainment district known for its colorful illuminated signs, the 6th century Shitenno-ji Temple, the Umeda Sky Building, and Universal Studios Japan. The city is often referred to as the "Kitchen of Japan," for its culinary prowess, and is also known as a shopper's paradise.

Takayama

Takayama is a charming and historic city located in the mountainous region of Gifu Prefecture in central Japan. It is known for its well-preserved Edo-period (17th to 19th century) streetscapes, traditional architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. Some of the key sights include the Sanmachi Suji District, which is famous for its beautifully preserved Edo-period merchant streets, the Takayima Jinya, a historical government building, and the Hida Folk Village.

Sapporo, Hokkaido

Settled over 15,000 years ago, Sapporo, located in the southwest of Hokkaido, is Japan’s fifth largest city today. It is known as the site of the 1972 Winter Olympics, the first Winter Olympics ever held in Asia. Some of key sights in the city are the Sapporo Dome, the Sapporo Beer Museum, the TV tower located in Odori Park, Hokkaido University, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which has hundreds of snow statues and sculptures.

Activities

Exciting and memorable things to do

Full Day Tokyo Highlights Private Tour

Explore Asakusa, Tokyo’s old town, where you can visit the Senso-ji Temple and wander down the Nakamise shopping street. Next, travel down the Sumidagawa River on Tokyo’s Water Bus, and visit Hamarikyu Garden, an Edo-period Japanese garden, where you will enjoy a a cup of steaming matcha in a tea house. Later, enjoy a visit to Meiji Shrine, and take a walk down the flashy Omotesando shopping street, a home to flagship stores of some of the world’s top fashion brands.

Full Day Kyoto Tour

Discover Kyoto on this day tour, with an experienced guide by your side. Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple, one of the country’s most visited sites. A far cry from Buddhist austerity, it is covered in real gold leaf, photogenically stunning at any time of year, no matter the weather. The story of the warlord who had this pavilion built will surely capture your mind, too. Next, stop by Ryoan-ji Temple which dates back to the Heian period (794-1185, and Kitano-Temmangu Shrine. In the afternoon, explore Kyoto along the Philosopher’s Path, a pleasant stone path that follows a canal lined by hundreds of cherry trees.

Half Day Arashiyama Tour

Head to the Arashiyama district, a popular destination since the Heian period (794-1185), when nobles would relax in its natural settings. Take a walk through the famous bamboo groves, which are particularly attractive when a light wind makes the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. Visit Nonomiya Shrine, a Shinto shrine, then enjoy some matcha tea and a light snack at Okochi Mountain Villa, the former villa of the popular samurai film star Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962). Finally, stop by Tenryu-ji, which is ranked among Kyoto’s five great Zen temples and the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama.

Geisha Cultural Experience

Get a rare peek into the world of Kyoto’s mysterious geisha districts, also known as ‘the flower and willow world’, and enjoy a traditional multi-course dinner. You will see a maiko perform dances to live music played by a senior geisha shamisen player. You will also get the chance to partake in a traditional geisha game, ask questions, and listen to their stories. Your translator is an expert in Kyoto geisha culture and will help you every step of the way. This is a unique chance to experience this refined form of entertainment, a mysterious world that even most Japanese find impenetrable.

Half Day Miyajima Highlights Tour

Take a short ferry ride to Miyajima, a small, sacred island located in the Seto Inland Sea. Miyajima has been a sacred place for Shintoism since the earliest times. Here you will find one of the most photographed sites in Japan – the torii gate which appears to be floating in the sea during high tide. You will have time to explore the island and its many shrines and temples, including the famous Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sample local goodies before heading back to the mainland.

Half day Osaka Tour

Start your day visiting the magnificent Osaka Castle. The castle is one of Japan’s most famous and played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. It has been completely rebuilt, faithful to its original appearance, after its destruction during World War II. Later, walk through Dotonbori, a popular shopping and entertainment district, which is also known as a food destination. At night, it is lit up by hundreds of neon signs, including the famous Glico Running Man sign.

Trips

Popular, customizable trips

Best of Japan

12 days / 11 Nights from $ 6499 per person

Experience the best of Japan on this 12 day journey through the country. Start in Tokyo and explore its many temples and famous shopping districts, before visiting the iconic Mt. Fuji and staying at a traditional Japanese Ryokan Onsen (Inn with hot springs). Then proceed to Kyoto and Nara, the cultural heart of Japan, to learn about Japanese spiritual beliefs, architecture, and traditions, and marvel at the natural beauty of its parks, especially during the Cherry Blossom season. Next, visit Hiroshima to see how this city has rebounded from its tragic and painful past, and gaze at the iconic Floating Torii gate on Miyajima Island, one of the most photographed sights in Japan. Finally, visit Osaka to experience its eclectic mix of historical and modern sights.

Japan

Destinations

Activities

Trips

12 days / 11 Nights from $ 6499 per person

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