Great Traverse of Japan

This morning, your guide will pick you up at the hotel and begin an exciting Tokyo adventure by riding its convenient public transportation. First, let’s uncover the secrets of Japanese cooking at the Tsukiji Outer Market, once the world’s largest fish market and now a popular spot for food lovers. From the 17th century, when seafood was wrapped in kelp to stay fresh before refrigeration, to modern innovations like high-moisture ramen, which can become deformed but easily regain its shape with a simple shake - challenging the idea that noodles shouldn’t be pressed - Tokyo’s cuisine has constantly evolved and shaped Japan’s food culture.

Later, leave the busy atmosphere behind and head to Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled in a peaceful forest. In Japan, each shrine features a torii gate at the entrance, with its size indicating the shrine’s importance. As you approach the towering one at Meiji Jingu Shrine, the most enormous wooden torii in Japan made from wood over 1,500 years old in Taiwan, you’ll clearly see the shrine’s significance. This is because Emperor Meiji (1852 - 1912 AD)’s end to the shogun’s control over the government led to a significant increase in the emperor’s power and status, making the deification and worship of the emperor a central source of Japan’s national unity and spiritual strength.Next, we’ll visit the Imperial Palace, the residence of the Emperor and the imperial family. As a historic and cultural landmark, it combines tradition with modern elements in Tokyo, evoking a feeling of stepping back in time. During the 17th to 19th centuries, it served as a fortress for the Tokugawa shogunate, boasting tall walls and intricate moats as its defenses. While admiring its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens, your knowledgeable guide will also share details about the traditions of the imperial family and how they influence modern Japan.

In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Asakusa, where echoes of history chord with the rhythm of modern life. Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, stands as its centerpiece. After taking photos with the iconic large red lantern at Kaminarimon Gate, let’s stroll along Nakamise-dori Street to enjoy a variety of Japanese snacks, including ningyoyaki (baked sponge cake with fillings) and deep-fried pork cutlets, along with traditional souvenirs like kokeshi dolls and yaki fans. When you reach the temple’s main hall and the five-story pagoda, you can also catch a glimpse of Tokyo Skytree towering in the distance. If you’re interested in exploring the backstreets, enjoy yourself by trying rickshaws at your own expense. Finally, your guide will escort you back to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Many people include Mt. Fuji on their travel bucket list, so today offers a great chance to see it - Japan’s tallest mountain and a cultural icon. After your hotel pickup early in the morning, join your guide on an express train to Odawara, followed by a Hakone Tozan Train and Tozan Cable Car that takes us up the mountains. Beyond just a transfer, this train ride is more like a scenic journey! From your comfortable seat, watch the city skyline fade into peaceful countryside, passing through lush mountains and forests. The view outside the window looks like it’s straight out of an anime, making the trip just as enjoyable as the sightseeing afterward.

The first impressive site we’ll visit is the Owakudani Valley, where the continuously erupting volcanic plumes create a surreal spectacle that photography enthusiasts won’t want to miss. Originally called Hell Valley because of its bleak landscape, the valley was renamed Owakudani in 1873 AD due to concerns that it might be considered unlucky for Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken to visit a place known as “Hell” during their retreat in Hakone.

Continue on the ropeway to the enchanting Lake Ashi, famous for its amazing views of Mt. Fuji. Hop on a pirate ship cruise and sail across the peaceful waters. As you snap incredible photos of Mt. Fuji, you might wonder: Why is it so sacred to the Japanese? In this mountainous country, where people traditionally lived in valleys, the Japanese respect the towering mountains deeply. After many moves to Tokyo’s flatlands, they often feel disconnected and miss the familiar mountains that serve as spiritual anchors. Fortunately, they can still see the majestic and graceful Mt. Fuji in the distance, which remains a powerful spiritual symbol. Once on land, your guide will accompany you on the trip back to Tokyo.

★ Considerate Service Concerning Mt. Fuji’s Visibility

As an island nation, Japan is heavily influenced by the ocean, which makes it prone to clouds and fog. Even at its base, Mt. Fuji is only visible about 100 days a year, mainly between October and early November and from December to February. Don’t worry, as our itinerary allows flexible date exchanges. Your guide will check the weather forecast in advance and plan your two-day stay in Tokyo based on weather conditions, doing their best to let you visit Hakone on clear days.

Meals: Breakfast

Today, please manage your own transfer to Tokyo Station, beginning with a 3-minute walk from the 3-star hotel to Kayabacho Station, where you can take the Tozai Line for two stops to Otemachi Station, and then walk 2 minutes to Tokyo Station. Alternatively, it’s only a 7-minute walk from the 4-star hotel. Then, enjoy a 2-hour bullet train ride to Kyoto (tickets reserved and included), preparing for our exploration of Kyoto’s history and culture!

After the Kyoto guide picks you up at the train station, you’ll be escorted to the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. Originally built as a retreat for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu (1358-1408 AD) and later converted into a Zen temple, its elaborate and elegant Golden Pavilion, adorned with gold leaf, blends seamlessly with the surrounding Zen gardens. Over the centuries, the Golden Pavilion has endured fires and renovations, standing as a symbol of resilience and renewal. From late March to early April, blooming cherry blossoms in shades of pink and white create a breathtaking sight, with the flowers’ fleeting beauty perfectly complementing the architecture’s timeless charm. Thus, a walk through the garden in spring feels more like a meaningful and enriching meditation than just sightseeing.

Next, let’s head to the Pure Water Temple, along the slopes of bustling Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. Flanked by traditional Japanese townhouses filled with Kyoto charm, this gateway to the temple offers popular photo spots like the five-story Yasaka Pagoda. Arriving at the main hall, supported by 139 massive wooden pillars on the cliffside, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the wooden stage that extends out. Additionally, “Jumping off the Pure Water Stage” has come to mean “to take the plunge” in Japanese, implying that if someone survives the jump, their wish will be granted. Though this practice has long been banned, it has given the stage a sense of faith.

Leaving the temple, join your guide to explore the captivating Gion Area, whose history is as diverse as the intricate patterns on geisha kimonos. Initially developed in the 8th century as a resting spot near Yasaka Shrine, Gion evolved into a lively entertainment district by the 17th century, renowned for geishas. Trained in music, dance, and conversation, geishas are more than just performers; they are custodians of Japan’s refined traditions and age-old customs.

As our tour ends, the guide will eacort you back to the hotel, or you may stay here longer to enjoy dinner by yourself and marvel at the enchanting lanterns of Yasaka Shrine lit up at night, immersing yourself in Gion’s kaleidoscopic view after dark. Finally, you can return to the hotel on your own, either by a 15-minute taxi ride or by walking to Shijo Keihan-mae Station to catch the 207 City Bus toward Subway Kujo Station near your hotel, in 25 minutes.

Meals: Breakfast

Today, leave the hotel early with your guide for Fushimi Inari Shrine to avoid crowds and capture the best morning light for photos. When visiting the main hall, dedicated to the goddess Inari who oversees agriculture and business, admire its detailed carvings and bright colors. Behind the shrine is the famous Senbon Torii, where thousands of red torii gates stretch all the way to the mountaintop. It’s recommended to hike for 30-40 minutes to the less-crowded middle section for sweeping views of Kyoto, also perfect for taking eye-catching photos beneath the torii.

Later, bid farewell to Kyoto and take a train ride with your guide to Nara, Japan’s first ancient capital. As you wander through the lush greenery of Nara Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by deer, Nara’s emblem. According to local legends, these deer are messengers of the gods, and interacting with them is considered a blessing. You can buy deer crackers to feed them, but remember to stand still and hold the crackers flat in your hand rather than waving them, so the deer can nibble without getting too excited or hurting you.Next, get ready to be amazed by the Great Eastern Temple with its magnificent Great Buddha Hall and the 15-meter-tall (49-foot) Buddha statue. Built in the 8th century by the emperor to promote Buddhism across the country, it represented the nation’s unity through faith. Although it lost its political status due to the decline of Buddhism and the confiscation of temple lands in the late 19th century, the temple remains a cultural treasure and has been designated a World Heritage Site.

Just a few steps away is the trail to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, lined with stone lanterns and old-growth trees, with deer sometimes darting among them. Arriving at the shrine complex, you can see its red pillars and white walls remaining bright despite the passing years. Why are Japanese shrines mostly vermilion? The Japanese believe that vermilion wards off evil spirits, symbolizes the vitality and energy of the sun, and represents fertility and prosperity. Additionally, vermilion lacquer has antibacterial and antiseptic properties, which help to protect the wood and extend the structure’s lifespan.

Then, let’s walk through the Naramachi District to explore Nara’s customs and local community. Stop by Goryo Shrine to see the wishes for a happy marriage from locals. Look closely to notice spherical protective amulets hanging from each doorway, acting as stand-ins for their owners, taking on any illness or misfortune. Also, visit the Naramachi Latice House, which has a narrow front but a deep interior, making it quiet and private, nicknamed “eel bed.” Only when you enter can you see the wisdom and cozy charm of the Nara people through its layout, staircases, and courtyards. Finally, your guide will escort you back to Kyoto.

Meals: Breakfast

After receiving a warm greet from your guide at the hotel, today’s tour begins with a visit to Nijo Castle. Built in 1603 AD by the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, it served as both a residence and a strategic military outpost to demonstrate the shogunate’s power. As you explore Ninomaru Palace, you can almost feel the presence of the samurai who once walked those halls. Beneath your feet, the famous “nightingale floor,” which chirped when stepped on as a security feature against intruders, will instantly transport you back to the glorious samurai era.

Then, let’s take a train to Osaka. Upon arrival, follow your guide to Kuromon Market, a favorite spot for food lovers and photographers. As you soak in the vibrant atmosphere - vendors shouting out to passersby, the sizzling sounds of cooking, and cheerful chatter from fellow food enthusiasts - press the shutter to capture the busy chefs at work and tempting shots of delicacies! If you like, try okonomiyaki pancake, enjoy a seafood rice bowl, or sample fresh sea urchin at your own expense, each bite bursting with flavor and capturing the spirit of Osaka street food.

Our next stop is Osaka Castle, built by feudal lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598 AD) to become one of the largest castles in Japan at that time. As Hideyoshi carried out extensive urban development around the castle, including dredging rivers, building roads and bridges, and inviting merchants and artisans to settle there, Osaka quickly grew into Japan’s top commercial city, earning him the nickname Osaka’s Founding Father. Furthermore, his story of rising from humble beginnings to becoming a powerful minister resonates with the values of the Osaka people. Inside the Main Tower, we can review the legendary life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi through various exhibits and relive his outstanding achievements.

Around dusk, we’ll explore Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, which have been Osaka’s hubs for dining and entertainment for over 400 years, as well as the hidden Hozen-ji Temple, full of traditional charm. So far, you’ll find our itinerary is rich and packed, far beyond the typical 8-hour tours offered by most operators. Before saying goodbye, your guide will give a brief introduction to the area and ensure you have plenty of free time to explore on your own. If you’re interested, enjoy a Dotonbori cruise in the laid-back, cheerful atmosphere created by the boat’s humorous crew, soaking in Osaka’s hospitable character as the “City of Laughter.” Finally, walk to the lively Shinsaibashi Street to browse designer boutiques, trendy fashions, and traditional crafts. Your hotel is just a 5-minute walk away.

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, please walk 3 to 5 minutes from your hotel to Shinsaibashi Metro Station, then take the Midosuji Line for six stops, which takes about 12 minutes, to Shin-Osaka Station. If you have large luggage, consider taking a taxi, which takes 10 minutes and costs around USD 25. 
► Tip: Since our itinerary involves multiple transfers over the next few days, you can consider delivering your heavy luggage to Tokyo with your guide’s help, so you can travel light.

After a 1.5-hour bullet train ride on your own from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station (train tickets reserved and included), meet your local guide and take a ferry to Miyajima Island, one of the Three Views of Japan. Its red and white Itsukushima Shrine faces the azure sea, with lush green forests of Mount Misen in the background. In the late 12th century, when the samurai-dictator Taira no Kiyomori prioritized maritime trade by lifting the maritime ban, cracking down on pirates and extensively renovating the port, but merchants also worried about storms and other natural disasters, a concern that could only be alleviated through worshipping the Sea Goddess. As a result, the Itsukushima Shrine has been highly revered since that time.

In the afternoon, we’ll move to the heart of Hiroshima to learn about its tragic history. After World War II, Hiroshima faced a choice: either to rebuild the city exactly as it was before the 1945 Atomic Bombing, or turn it into a symbol of remembrance. Hiroshima chose the latter, transforming the scars of war into the Peace Memorial Park, where hope and peace rise from the ashes of destruction. Stop to admire the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few surviving buildings with well-preserved remains and imperfect beauty, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, serving as a powerful reminder of war’s devastating effects and the enduring hope for peace. Then, enter the Peace Memorial Museum to see exhibits that include victims’ personal belongings, stark photos illustrating Hiroshima’s contrast, and models demonstrating the bomb’s destructive power. They are not only about loss and tragedy but also about resilience and hope, constantly reminding you of the harsh cost of war and the importance of peace.

Finally, your guide will escort you to Hiroshima Station and provide train tickets for your independent trip back to Osaka.

Meals: Breakfast

Today, you need to go by yourself to Shin-Osaka Station, for a 2.5-hour bullet train ride to Kanazawa, with tickets provided by us. Known for its well-preserved historic buildings and rich traditional culture, Kanazawa is nicknamed Little Kyoto, but it exhibits both heroic and delicate qualities rooted in samurai culture, rather than Kyoto’s elegance of royal and aristocratic traditions. Once you arrive, the local guide will meet you and escort you to the hotel.

After a short rest, let’s begin our afternoon tour of Kanazawa with Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most renowned gardens. Walking through its exquisitely landscaped grounds, admire its expansive Kasumi Pond, winding bamboo groves, towering Karasaki pines, and lanterns shaped like ancient zither pillars, along with Japan’s oldest fountain, which is powered entirely by natural water pressure. All of these are humble yet meticulously crafted, embodying the essence of Japanese aesthetics: profundity in implicitness. You might also enjoy a sip at the historic tea room here, once used by the feudal lord to entertain distinguished guests, immersing yourself in the pastimes of ancient Japanese nobility.

Next, move on to the Higashi Chaya District, also known as Eastern Teahouse District, where Kanazawa’s rows of teahouses stand impressively despite wars and earthquakes, genuinely maintaining the charm of ancient streets. As traditional entertainment venues for hosting guests and watching geisha performances, teahouses were once only accessible to high-ranking officials like nobles and wealthy merchants during the 17th to 19th centuries. They feature a special wooden lattice called “mushiko” - while the interior is hidden from view from the outside, those inside can see everything outside clearly, offering high privacy.

Finally, walk with your guide to the well-preserved Nagamachi Samurai District, known for its cobblestone streets and high earthen walls alongside scenic waterways. Kanazawa was very prosperous during the 17th to 19th centuries and was once one of Japan’s largest castle towns, with a population comparable to Rome’s at the time. At Nomura-ke Samurai Heritage Residence, which features lavishly appointed waterscapes, you can see heirlooms like a complete set of samurai armor, offering a glimpse into the lives of wealthy samurai in Kanazawa back then. After the tour, your guide will escort you back to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, after picking you up from the hotel, your guide will accompany you on a 1.5-hour express bus trip from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go Village.
 
Surrounded by mountains and crisscrossed with rice paddies, Shirakawa-go has long been isolated as an “island on the land.” From a distance, we can see its iconic Gassho-zukuri-style houses, named after their clasped-hand-shaped rooftops. Besides enjoying sweeping views of the village from the Ogimachi Castle Observation Deck, let’s explore the Wada House and Kanda House, whose roofs are thickly covered in straw, with walls made of a mixture of mud and wood that provide excellent sound insulation and keep the interior warm in winter while remaining cool in summer. This type of structure, which requires replacing the roof thatch, has led to Shirakawa-go developing a mutual aid system in which the entire village works together whenever a family’s house needs a roof renovation. This fosters community ties and helps ensure that Gassho-zukuri-style buildings are passed down from one generation to the next.

In the afternoon, the guide will accompany you back to Kanazawa and see you off at Kanazawa Train Station, where you’ll board the train for a 2.5-hour ride to Tokyo using our booked ticket. Upon your arrival, please manage your own way to the hotel: walk 2 minutes to Otemachi Metro Station, take the Tozai Line, and get off at Kayabacho Station after 3 stops to reach our 3-star hotel nearby; or walk southeast for just 7 minutes from Tokyo Station to arrive at the 4-star hotel.

► Night Views in Tokyo During Your Free Time
Our handpicked hotel is located in a traditional waterfront commercial district, with many small canals winding among the skyscrapers. From the hotel, you can use Google Maps to navigate to Nihonbashi and enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverside promenade, where the reflections in the water create a unique nighttime scene that evokes a calm and romantic mood. If you’re willing to go further, take the Hibiya Line from Kayabacho Station for about 15 minutes to Kamiyacho Station, then walk 5 minutes to Shiba Park, which offers a classic view of Tokyo framing the historic Zojoji Temple alongside the modern Tokyo Tower.

Meals: Breakfast

Today, your Japan small group tour is coming to an end. After breakfast, please check out based on your flight time and head to the airport on your own. Wish you a safe and pleasant journey home!

► Recommended Hotspot Before Leaving Tokyo
If your schedule allows, head to Tokyo Station to admire its 19th-century-style red brick architecture. Inside, Tokyo Station Ichibangai feels like a theme park, with several themed alleys dedicated to Japanese ramen, desserts, and souvenirs. If you love Japanese anime, don’t miss Tokyo Character Street, which features lively displays of popular IPs like Pokémon, Crayon Shin-chan, and My Neighbor Totoro. From there, you can take the Narita Express at the underground JR platform directly to Narita Airport in about 50 minutes (a taxi costs USD 210-240), or take the Keihin-Tohoku Line to Hamamatsucho Station and transfer to Tokyo Monorail for direct access to Haneda Airport (a taxi costs USD 60-70).

Meals: Breakfast