Day 1 - Arrive Tokyo Japan

Today you arrive into Tokyo where, after clearing arrival formalities you are met and transferred to your lovely hotel which is situated within walking distance of both the Imperial Palace and the dazzling Ginza.

Overnight: The Peninsula Tokyo

Day 2 - Tokyo

Tokyo is the heart of Japan and in this busy megalopolis of 30 million people is where everything happens. Meet your guide and set off for a wonderful orientation that introduces you to the many faces of Tokyo.

You begin with a guided walking tour of the Imperial Palace Plaza and some of its elegant gardens before continuing on to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the Meiji Emperor (reigned from 1867 – 1912), the most popular shrine in the city.  After walking the verdant grounds of the shrine continue, on foot, into Harajuku, Tokyo’s eclectic neighborhood famed for its many fashion forward shops, distinctive architecture and decidedly daring people who enjoy expressing themselves through their dress.

Then it’s time for a view from the top, visit the Observation Deck in the beautiful Mori Building which affords the best panoramic view of Tokyo.

Overnight: The Peninsula Tokyo

Meal Plan: B,L

Day 3 - Tokyo

Start the day with a visit to TeamLab the hottest ticket in Tokyo – this meeting of film makers and high-tech specialists results in an interactive virtual art experience like no other as you, the visitor, become an integral part of the exhibition.

Continue to the Tsukiji Fish Market, an iconic “must visit” for any traveler to Tokyo. The world’s largest seafood market is a bustling hive of activity each morning. 

Following lunch explore the wonderful Edo Museum which highlights the history of Tokyo. After exploring the history of the city take a trip to the future where you experience the interactive art and innovation at TeamLab the hottest ticket in Tokyo at this time. 

Your day will also include a visit to the older Tokyo when you visit the Asakusa District with its magnificent Sensoji Temple, considered the most beautiful of all temples in Tokyo. You can also enjoy running the gauntlet of shops in the busy Nakamise-dori which feature many lovely arts and crafts.

This evening enjoy a nighttime tour of the izakayas of Shinjuku for an authentic foodie experience.

Overnight: The Peninsula Tokyo

Meal Plan: B,L

Day 4 - Tokyo - Hakone

This morning travel to Hakone by high-speed train where, on arrival, set off to enjoy the beautiful nature and artistic highlights of Hakone, one of Japan’s travel treasures. The Hakone/Izu/Mount Fuji National Park is a wonderland of picturesque scenery that includes mountains, forests and crystalline lakes. 

Visit the Hakone Open Air Museum, a world-renowned sculpture garden that exhibits the works of the most celebrated sculptors on earth. Then set sail on Lake Ashi for the best views of Mount Fuji.

Disembark from your cruise, then take a ropeway (tram) that climbs the ridge of volcanic mountains affording visitors with the best views onto the country’s most sacred symbol, Mount Fuji.

Following your activities you are transferred to the elegant Gora Kadan the most beautiful ryokan in the region.

Overnight: Gôra Kadan

Meal Plan: B,L,D

Day 5 - Hakone Osaka

This morning, following some final activities, transfer to the train station and board your high-speed train to Osaka.  Arrive and spend the balance of the afternoon on an orientation tour of the city which is the second largest metropolitan area in Japan with a current population of over 19 million. Your afternoon includes a visit to the magnificent Osaka Castle which played an integral role in the eventual unification of Japan under the ruling Tokugawa family (1603 – 1868). 

Then it’s on to the Umeda Sky building for panoramic views of Osaka. End the day discovering the many snack food favorites of Osaka on a foodie tour – the city is considered to be the “foodie capital” of Japan.

Overnight: Conrad Osaka

Meal Plan: B,D

Day 6 - Osaka - Nara - Kyoto

This morning, depart Osaka and transfer to Nara, first capital of imperial Japan (710 – 794) and a cradle of Japanese civilization. During your visit enjoy time strolling in Nara Park, famous for its herd of some 1,000 deer and then take in the Todaiji temple which is one of 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nara; the temple is the largest ancient wooden structure in Japan.

Visit the Kasuga Shrine and Kasugayama Primeval Forest two other UNESCO sites revered by the Japanese people. Your visit concludes with a visit to Kofukuji Temple — once the family temple of a powerful medieval clan, the complex includes a five-story pagoda that stands over 48 metres (160 feet) tall.

Following your visit to Nara you will then transfer on to Kyoto, capital of Japan for over 1,000 years and home to many of the most beautiful temples and gardens in the entire country.

Overnight: The Four Seasons, Kyoto

Meal Plan: B,L

Day 7 - Kyoto

The popular tourist city in Japan, Kyoto is a mirror to the history and cultural development of the country. Join your guide and enjoy two full days in this most charming of Japanese cities discovering the many beautiful wonders of Kyoto.

Today you begin with a visit to the iconic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Temple which is the most famous symbol of Kyoto.  This afternoon spend time in Arashiyama a lovely part of the city noted for its verdant bamboo groves, temples, and shrines.

Then, a short hike to Monkey Park Iwatayama, home to over 170 Japanese macaques. Although wild, the inhabitants are happy to accept donations from visitors, so feel free to feed them at designated feeding sites.

Overnight: The Four Seasons, Kyoto

Meal Plan: B,L

Day 8 - Kyoto

Continue your exploration of Kyoto with a visit to the majestic Kiyomizu Temple which dates back to the 6^th century and commands stunning views across the city. Then immerse yourself in the cultural traditions of Kyoto best realized in the tea ceremony which is an expression of one’s character. Visit Nijo Castle and the busy Nishiki Market where you can enjoy a sampling of Kyoto’s favorite snack foods.

Overnight: The Four Seasons Hotel, Kyoto

Meal Plan: B,L,D

Day 9 - Depart Kyoto

Today, after breakfast, you will be transferred to either of the two Osaka Airports (Kansai International Airport or Itami Domestic Airport) where you will be assisted with the check-in for your departure flight.

Meal Plan: B