Day 1 - Sunday, May 18: Overnight flight
Fly from either Toronto or Detroit to Japan.
Day 2 - Monday, May 19: Arrival in Tokyo
Welcome to Japan, the “Land of the Rising Sun." Begin in the electrifying city of Tokyo, where pop culture is turned all the way up b and traditions are rich and long-kept.
Day 3 - Tuesday, May 20: Tokyo
Begin the day exploring Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest Geisha district. Visit
the famous Buddhist temple, Senso-ji, the colourful temple famous
for the red chochin (lantern) hanging at the entrance gate. Experience
the long standing tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony, dating back
to the 15th century. During your free time, explore the Nakamise
Shopping Arcade and feel the energy of the oldest shopping street in
Japan. Then, head to Tokyo National Museum to learn about the
fascinating history and culture of Tokyo. The museum displays
artwork and antiques from Japan and the surrounding area. Tonight,
join your fellow travellers at a welcome dinner. (B, D)
Day 4 - Wednesday, May 21: Tokyo
Amid a lush forest outside of Tokyo, visit the Meiji Shrine, dedicated
to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. Feel the excitement
start to build as you pass by the grounds of the Imperial Palace and
see the Niju Bridge, the well-known symbol of the Imperial Palace.
Later, walk through Ginza, one of the most elegant and luxurious
streets in the world, where modern landscape meets rich history.
Enjoy shopping at some of the most renowned "department stores" in
Japan. (B)
Day 5 - Thursday, May 22: Tokyo - Hakone
Journey to the lakeside resort of Hakone, renowned for its hot
springs. In the shadow of Mt. Fuji (UNESCO), this scenic town hugs
the shorelines of Lake Ashi. Make a stop at Owakudani, located in an
active volcanic zone. The Owakudani crater was created some 3,000
years ago, when Mt. Hakone erupted. Climb aboard the Hakone
Ropeway, an aerial cable car descending from Owakudani for a
breathtaking view* of Mt. Fuji. Next, take to the deep-blue waters of
Lake Ashi on a cruise where you’ll see epic views of the local
mountains before stopping in the charming town of Moto-Hakone.
Tonight, experience a traditional kaiseki dinner. (B, D)
Day 6 - Friday, May 23: Hakone - Matsumoto - Takayama
This breathtaking day begins in Matsumoto at Matsumoto Castle,
known as the “Crow Castle” because of its striking black exterior.
Later, you’ll step back in time in the rural Edo-period town of
Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps. Well known to the locals for
its connection to sake, this is the perfect place to gather for a visit to
one of Japan’s 200-year-old sake breweries. Afterward, experience a
true Japanese epicurean treat – traditional rice wine paired with a
special Hida beef dinner. (B, D)
Day 7 - Saturday, May 24: Takayama
The ancient cultures of Takayama come alive this morning in the
town’s historic district. Take a walk through the past and glimpse the
19th-century Jinya government building. Stroll through the morning
market, a 600-year-old open air market with locally grown and
produced products, located along the Miyagawa River. Circuit the
winding streets, where the town’s traditional charms are preserved in
the inns and houses. This afternoon, relish some free time to continue
your exploration of Takayama on your own before enjoying a
traditional multi-course ‘kaiseki’ dinner. (B, D)
Day 8 - Sunday, May 25: Shirakawa and Kanazawa
Today, embrace the unique charms of Shirakawa-go (UNESCO) Hidden away in the mountain, this harmonious village is famous for
its gassho-zukuri-style houses – thatched-rooftops designed to Hidden away in the mountain, this harmonious village is famous for
its gassho-zukuri-style houses – thatched-rooftops designed to resemble two hands joined in prayer. Journey to Kanazawa, the origin
of gold-leaf making since the 16th century. Visit the Geisha quarters
of Kanazawa, the Higashi Tea district, and then onto the beauty of
Japan’s most stunning gardens, where more than 25 acres of absolute
beauty awaits you at Kenroku-En – Garden of Six Qualities. (B)
Day 9 - Monday, May 26: Kanazawa
Visit the Samurai district where we will enter the former home of the
Nomuras, a wealthy samurai family who served the ruling Maeda
family. Dive into the ancient craft of gold leaf making during a handson lesson in decorating your own lacquer box! In the centre of town,
take in the action of the Omicho fish market before venturing out on
your own to really immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s dynamic culture.
(B)
Day 10 - Tuesday, May 27: Kyoto
Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha for a tour of the most revered shrine of
Inari. Follow the spectacular rows of orange torii (made famous in the
movie Memoirs of a Geisha) that weave through the forest, leading
you to the inner shrine. Then Kyoto awaits! The former Imperial
capital of Japan is now one of the nation’s top cosmopolitan cities. At
the same time, Kyoto’s connection with its past is strong; you won’t
need to look far to see one of its 2,000 temples and shrines. Later,
visit the Women’s Association of Kyoto in a traditional Kyoto town
house. Here, delve into a wide array of enlightening Japanese
activities, guided by your knowledgeable hostess. Sip different sakes, try your hand at making sushi, fold intricate origami shapes, and
speak to your hostess about Japan, its culture, and women’s roles in
this complex society. (B, D)
Day 11 - Wednesday, May 28: Hiroshima
All aboard the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima. Upon arrival,
board a ferry for the short trip to Miyajima Island, or “Shrine Island”
(UNESCO). Afterwards, head into Hiroshima city to visit the Peace
Memorial Park, and pause to see the ruined Atomic Dome
(UNESCO). Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. As
this long and moving day comes to a close, return to Kyoto by the
Shinkansen bullet train. (B)
Day 12 - Thursday, May 29: Kyoto
This morning, visit Kinkakuji (UNESCO), the Golden Pavilion, a Zen
temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure. (B)
Day 13 - Friday, May 30: Kyoto
Today, visit the home of the first Shogun, Nijo Castle (UNESCO),
and see intricate woodcarvings, wall paintings, and the Ninomaru
Garden, designed by Kobori Enshu, a landscape architect and tea
master. Next, learn about the ancient craft of stenciling during a
hands-on lesson. This afternoon, spend some time relaxing or set out
to explore Kyoto on your own. Fully immerse yourself in Japanese culture tonight during a special farewell dinner and maiko show. (B,
Day 14 - Saturday, May 31: Return flight to Toronto or Detroit
Your tour comes to a close in this fascinating land. As you depart,
reflect on its beauty and all you have learned about its rich history
and culture. (B)
