Visions of Japan

Konnichiwa Japan Welcome to Tokyo, Japan's capital city. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.

Monumental Metropolis Start with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. At an artist's studio, learn to write like a local during a calligraphy lesson with a master calligrapher, have the opportunity to try on a traditional kimono, and partake in a [LF] tea ceremony. After lunch, visit the Tokyo Skytree, the world's tallest tower. Last stop is the Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise shopping arcade. Tonight, join your travel companions at a welcome dinner hosted by your Tour Director.

Soaring Heights & Sweeping Views Drive south along the coast to Kamakura to see the 750-year-old Great Buddha. Continue to Hakone where you'll take a cable-car ride for panoramic views of spectacular Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain. After lunch, cruise on Lake Ashi for more views of this beautiful area. Conclude the day with a thrilling shinkansen (bullet train) ride back to Tokyo!

Wondrous Wandering Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore the city. Tokyo has something for everyone so visit one of the city's unique neighbourhoods like Ginza or Shibuya districts, dine at the street food markets or catch a game at the Tokyo Dome. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with My Account.

City to Farm to Table Journey to Matsumoto, gateway to the ruggedly beautiful Japanese Alps. Visit a local wasabi farm and Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure of Japan dating back to the 16th Century. Tonight, enjoy a wonderful Japanese-style dinner at your hotel.

Takayama Treasures Today begins at the morning market, where farmers display locally grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Visit Takayama Jinya, a former government office during the Edo Period from 1692-1868. This well-preserved building is a national historic site and the only remaining building of its kind in Japan. End with a fun [LF] sake tasting.

Enchanting Valleys & Tranquil Gardens This morning, enjoy a drive through the mountainous Shokawa Valley to Shirakawa; a remote region of Japan is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here explore the unique Gassho-Zukuri style (joined hands) thatched houses that can be found only here. Continue to the scenic town of Kanazawa, situated between the mountains and the Sea of Japan. Explore Kenroku-en Garden and take part in a gold leaf class, where you'll learn about this ancient craft and make your own bento box

Sushi, Shrines & Temples This morning, drive south to Kyoto. On arrival, participate in a [LF] Japanese cooking class for lunch. Then, you'll visit two of the city's most important sites: Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple. This evening, you have the option to stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan (additional expense and pre-booking required).

Golden Gift This morning starts with a visit to stunning Kinkakuji, the Temple of the Gold Pavilion. Next, visit Yuzen Handmade Corner to learn about the Yuzen dyeing technique used to decorate kimonos by painting dye directly on the cloth. Make your own souvenir using this traditional method. End the day at Sanjusajendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Flanking the main statue are 1,000 more life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf, with 40 arms believed to have the power to save 25 worlds!

Living Large, No Giant Travel to nearby Nara, to visit Kasuga Shrine and Todaiji Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Japan.

Say it Ain't Sayonara Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.