| Print | E-mail
Japan EliteTake in the amazing diversity of one of the world's most mysterious nations. This in-depth tour explores the legacy of past empires as you visit Japan's famous temples, castles and gardens. You will also experience tarditional life at a ryokan and enjoy the ubiquitous hot springs. End the tour in cosmopolitan Tokyo. Tailor-made alterations are available.
Kyoto - Nara - Beppu - Mount Aso - Hiroshima - Okayama - Hakone - Tokyo
|
Days 1 to 3 - Kyoto & Nara
|
Stay at the Kyoto Hotel Okura
|
|
|
Start your tour in Kyoto, the ancient imperial capital of Japan. You will explore the traditional wooden buildings of Gion where you may spot a geisha on one of the quaint cobblestone streets. Afterwards visit two major temple complexes at Maruyama Park and the famous Kiyomizu. Start the next day at Kyoto's most iconic sight, the Golden Pavillion and also visit the Ryoanji temples. Enjoy a traditional dance show performed by local Geiko and Maiko. On the last day enjoy an excursion by train to peaceful Nara to see the huge Deer Park and have a 'bento box' lunch. |
|
Days 4 to 5 - Beppu
|
Stay at a local Ryokan (traditional inn)
|
|
|
You travel by 'Shinkansen' (bullet train) to the city of Beppu, known as the Onsen (hot springs) capital of Japan. After settling in to your traditional room and exploring its fascinating cultural facets you will venture out to the famous hot springs around the ryokan. You can while away the hours at one of the many baths and perhaps try the hot sandbaths at the Takegawara Spa. In the evening settle in to your room and slip in to a 'yukata' (traditional Japanese robe) and enjoy a home cooked meal in unique surroundings. |
|
Days 6 to 7 - Mount Aso
|
Stay at a local Ryokan (traditional inn)
|
|
|
Travel from Beppu to the small town of Aso, home to Japan's largest volcano. Your accommodation is a simple but comfortable ryokan near the cable car station. Take the cable car to the summit to see the crater of this active volcano. The area also has several good hiking trails should you wish to explore the area on foot. There is also the unique opportunity to go for a helicopter ride to see this spectacular volcano from the air. |
|
Days 8 to 10 - Hiroshima
|
Stay at the Rihga Royal Hotel
|
|
|
You continue your journey after breakfast by train towards Hiroshima, a city of criss-crossing rivers, wide boulevards and sprawling urban center. After lunhc and and checking in to your deluxe hotel visit some of the city's important sights. Learn more about the nation's tragic events during WWII at the Atomic Dome and Peace Park. Also visit the nearby Peace Memorial Museum. Hiroshima has great nightlife and dining you can explore this evening. The next day go for a day excursion to the small island of Miyajima where you can see the iconic 'floating' Torii Gate and the Itsukushima Shrine. Travel to and from the island by ferry. |
|
Days 11 to 13 - Okayama & Hakone
|
Stay at the Fujiya Hotel
|
|
|
Today you will get back on the Shinkansen and ride towards Hakone, stopping off at Okayama first. This large but pleasant city is home to the Korakuen, one of Japan's official Three Great Gardens. The name means "Garden of Pleasure After", a reference to a famous Confucian quote stating that a wise ruler must attend to his subjects' needs first and only then attend to his own. Later board the train and travel to Hakone. From your base in Hakone you will visit the revered Mount Fuji, taking a cable car for superb views. Also explore Lake Ashinoko by boat and visit the Hakone Shrine.
|
|
Days 14 to 16 - Tokyo
|
Stay at the Park Hyatt
|
|
|
End your tour in Tokyo, one of the world's most glamorous, vibrant and exciting cities. Spend your nights in the comfort of your hotel, the famous Park Hyatt with spectacular views of Tokyo and the Kanto Plain. You will have time explore Tokyo on your own after some organized sightseeing. See the Tsukiji Fish Market in the morning and visit the Asakusa Kannon Temple. We can organize tickets to see a traditional Kabuki (theatre) play or witness a Sumo competition (subject to availability). In the evening you can try a sushi meal at one of Tokyo's top restaurants if you wish.
|
