10 Days Takayama & Villages | Hidden Trail - Cherry Blossom Seasonal Tour

Day 1 Tokyo | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour app for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From Narita Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 90 mins(Bus)
From Haneda Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 30 mins(Bus)

Day 2 Tokyo | Enjoy the day free at your Leisure

We have cleared up the day for you to explore and enjoy Japan as you wish.

During this time, you can also:

• Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea
• Visit the Ramen Museum
• Explore Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo - THE MAKING OF Harry Potter

Day 3 Tokyo | The Powerful Thunder Gate of Asakusa

Our journey begins with a visit to Tsukiji, where we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo's renowned fish market. Here, we'll marvel at the array of fresh seafood and culinary delights on offer, experiencing firsthand the hustle and bustle of this iconic destination.

Next, we'll venture to Shibuya Crossing and pay homage to Hachiko, the loyal Akita dog whose statue stands as a symbol of unwavering loyalty. Amidst the sea of pedestrians, we'll soak in the energy of one of the world's busiest intersections, capturing the essence of Tokyo's dynamic urban landscape.

For lunch, we'll indulge in a seasonal dining experience, savoring the flavors of Japan's rich culinary heritage. From delicate sushi to savory tempura, each dish will tantalize our taste buds and showcase the finest ingredients of the season.

Afterward, we'll explore the historic district of Asakusa and wander through Nakamise, a bustling shopping street lined with traditional shops and stalls. Here, we'll sample local snacks and browse for souvenirs, soaking in the timeless charm of old Tokyo.

To conclude our day, we'll venture to TeamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum where art, technology, and nature converge to create breathtaking installations. As we wander through this mesmerizing space, we'll be transported to otherworldly realms, experiencing art in a whole new dimension.

Day 4 Tokyo & Nagano | Cherry Blossoms along Traditional Japanese Art

Our Takayama Cherry Blossom Japan tour will start the day enjoying Hakone's Itchiku Kubota Art Museum. Itchiku Kubota was a textile artist who devoted his life to recreating the forgotten 15th century Tsujigahana fabric dyeing technique. Many of his work is on display at this museum. Browse through the decadent collection of Kimono decorated in this traditional Japanese art.

We will then stop for Hoto, a Japanese noodle dish and considered a local specialty of the region.

Before heading to the hotel, your group will be visiting Matsumoto Castle, also named the Crow Castle due to the unique black color of the building. Considered one of the three premier castles in Japan, the castle has never been destroyed with its initial buildings still intact since construction. The castle tower is Japan’s oldest existing castle tower and is a designated national treasure.

Day 5 Nakasendo & Takayama | Exploring Historic Trails and Timeless Towns

Today, our Takayama Cherry Blossom tour will have several stops before arriving in the city of Takayama. We’ll be following the Nakasendo Trail and enjoy a brief hike between Tsumago and Magome, the forty-second and forty-third stations of the trail respectively. The two towns are well-preserved and even go as far as making sure that electrical wires, TV antennas, and telephone poles do not show, allowing visitors to experience what it was like walking through town during the Edo Period. Enjoy some wagashi Japanese sweets and relax with a cup of tea before we make our way to Takayama.

Our Japan tour will finally reach Takayama. We will head to the Takayama Yatai Kaikan, a museum dedicated to the city’s famous festival floats. While the Takayama Festival itself is not taking place, you will still have the opportunity to witness the craftsmanship and beauty of these intricate floats up close. The Yatai Kaikan displays several festival floats year-round, beautifully adorned with detailed carvings, metalwork, and vibrant colors, illuminating the cultural and artistic heritage of Takayama. This visit provides a unique glimpse into the local traditions and the historical significance of the festival floats.

Day 6 Takayama, Shirakawago & Kanazawa | Exploring "Little Kyoto"

We’ll begin our day in Takayama with a visit to the morning market, one of the many areas in the city with buildings and shops more than 300 years old. Enjoy exploring the area by visiting the numerous vendors and important sightseeing spots. We recommend trying Hida Nikuman (beef buns) or Gohei-Mochi while at the market.

While at the market, we also recommend visiting the Takayama Jinya, a building which served as the local government office from 1692 up until 1969. Now a public museum, you can learn about the history of the building as well as old government documents and city plans of the area. The tour will also take a stroll through Takayama’s old town district which is filled with many well-preserved buildings from the Edo Period back when the city thrived as a wealthy merchant town.

Your group will then make its way to the small, rural farming village of Shirakawa-go, famous for its thatched-roof houses made using the gassho-zukuri method. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will get a glimpse into the traditional Japanese farming life in the early eras. A visit to the Nagase House, will provide insight on the various tools and trinkets used in the farming village back in the day.

Day 7 Kanazawa | Kanazawa's Cultural Tapestry : Gardens, Tea Houses & Samurai Legacy

We'll start our exploration of Kanazawa at the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens. This spot is particularly famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring, making it a perfect place for seasonal viewing. Stroll through meticulously maintained grounds that showcase not only seasonal flowers but also elegant water features, providing a perfect introduction to traditional Japanese garden aesthetics.

Next, we'll visit the Higashi Chaya District, an enchanting neighborhood known for its well-preserved tea houses where geisha once entertained. It's the ideal place to immerse yourself in the atmospheric beauty of old Kanazawa. Here, you’ll also find shops selling Kutaniyaki ceramics, famous for their intricate designs and vivid colors. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy sweets and souvenirs adorned with Kanazawa’s renowned gold leaf—a testament to the city’s rich artisanal heritage.

Our tour continues at the vibrant Omicho Market, where locals have come for fresh produce and seafood since the Edo period. This bustling marketplace is also a great spot to sample local delicacies like fresh sushi and sea urchin. Be sure to try some regional specialties at the food stalls that dot the market.

The final stop of the day is the Nomura Samurai House, a historic residence that gives a glimpse into the life of a samurai family. The house features beautiful architecture, a small but elegant traditional garden, and a collection of artifacts that depict the lifestyle of the samurai era.

Day 8 Kyoto | Dine with Japan's Next Generation of Geisha Artisans

Our journey begins with a delightful rickshaw ride through Arashiyama, where we'll be captivated by the towering bamboo groves and the tranquil ambiance of this historic district. This serene setting offers a perfect start to our adventure, providing a glimpse into traditional Japanese beauty.

Next, we visit the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf. Set amidst meticulously maintained gardens and reflective ponds, Kinkaku-ji stands as a testament to Kyoto's rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor.

We'll then wander through Ninenzaka's picturesque streets, lined with traditional machiya townhouses. As we stroll through this charming area, we'll soak in the timeless atmosphere of old Kyoto, admiring the well-preserved wooden buildings and quaint shops that evoke the spirit of Japan's historical past.

Our cultural journey continues with a traditional tea ceremony, where we'll learn the art of matcha preparation from a skilled tea master. This experience offers a serene and meditative insight into the ancient ritual, allowing us to appreciate the intricate beauty of Japanese tea culture.

To conclude our day, we'll enjoy a memorable dining experience featuring Kyoto cuisine. During dinner, we'll have the opportunity to meet Maiko, apprentice geisha, who will offer us a unique taste of traditional entertainment and hospitality. This immersive experience provides a captivating end to our day, blending exquisite food with cultural enrichment.

Day 9 Kyoto, Nara & Osaka | Meet & Greet the friendly Deer of Nara

Our journey begins in Kyoto with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. Renowned for its thousands of vibrant torii gates leading up Mount Inari, this Shinto shrine offers a magical experience. Walking through the pathways lined with these gates provides an unforgettable and serene experience.

Next, we'll delve into the world of samurai and ninja at the Samurai and Ninja Museum in Kyoto. Interactive exhibits and demonstrations reveal the fascinating history and skills of these legendary warriors, giving us a hands-on understanding of Japan's martial heritage.

Then, we travel to Nara to visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues globally. Adjacent to the temple, Nara Park offers a chance to interact with friendly deer in a picturesque setting, providing a peaceful and memorable encounter with nature.

We'll explore Naramachi, Nara's old merchant district, where traditional machiya townhouses line the narrow streets. This area provides a glimpse into Edo period life with its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration.

Finally, we head to Osaka to enjoy the vibrant street food scene in Dotonbori. This bustling district is renowned for its neon lights, energetic atmosphere, and delicious local delicacies, offering a lively and flavorful end to our day.

Day 10 Osaka | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From downtown hotel in Osaka to KIX Airport - about 70 mins (Bus)
From downtown hotel in Osaka to ITM Airport - about 30 mins (Bus)