DAY 1, Thursday - Depart for Japan
Depart for Japan

DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in Tokyo
Arrive in dynamic Tokyo in the "Land of the Rising Sun," transfer to your hotel. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with you Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM, followed by dinner. We recommend you select flights that arrive no later than 5 PM
Overnight: Tokyo
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Saturday - Tour of Tokyo
On today's tour of Tokyo, witness the contrast of this city of ancient traditions coupled with state-of-the-art technology. Begin at the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a beautiful forested area that honors the first Emperor of modern Japan and his Empress. Afterward, on to the Imperial Palace, a huge parkland with magnificent gardens, the residence of Japan's Imperial family. View the famous stone arched Nijubashi bridge, that leads to the main entrance to the imperial palace. Continue to Asakusa, once Tokyo's leading entertainment district. Here, enter the massive gates to the ancient Buddhist temple of Sensoji built in the 7th century and the Kannon Temple, one of the most visited spiritual sites in the world. Stroll along bustling Nakamise Street; see endless rows of traditional local snacks and souvenirs. Tonight, discover on your own why Tokyo is one of the best cities in the world for nightlife
Overnight: Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Sunday - Full Day in Tokyo
Spend the day at leisure to explore all of the delights of Tokyo on your own, or, participate in the optional full day tour to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Embark on a scenic journey through rural Japan, starting at Oshino Hakkai, a charming village near Mount Fuji, known for its clear spring ponds which are fed by the melting snow from Mt. Fuji. After lunch, enjoy sweeping views of Hakone National Park from the Hakone Ropeway cable car. Visit Owakudani, known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days*. Finally, relax with a cruise on Lake Ashi before returning to Tokyo*Weather conditions around Mt Fuji are challenging to predict, sometimes clouds will restrict views of the mountain & terrain.
Optional: Full Day Mt. Fuji & Hakone with lunch
Overnight: Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Monday - Bullet Train to Osaka, Kuromon Market, Osaka Castle
At the Tokyo Station, board the world-famous shinkansen, or "bullet train" that whisks you to Osaka - Japan's third largest city, known for its cuisine and nightlife. Upon arrival, begin your exploration at Kuromon Market, an Osaka landmark, with vendors selling fresh food and fast-food Japanese-style. Stop for lunch, or just try the tasty snacks. Then, free time to wander along the iconic Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori shopping streets with an array of fabulous selection of fashionable boutiques. Conclude the tour with a visit to dramatic Osaka Castle, built as a display of power in the 16th century, strategically looming over the surrounding park and moat. Inside, see an excellent collection of art, armor, and collectibles. Check into your hotel with free time before dinner
Overnight: Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6, Tuesday - Full Day in Osaka
Time to discover Osaka on your own, or, join the fascinating optional tour to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. After arriving by train, take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, not far from the coast. Admire views of the striking Itsukushima Shrine best-known for its floating torii gate, dating back to the 6th century. Spend free time on the island with its many shrines and temples before boarding the ferry to Hiroshima. A bus or tram takes you to the Peace Memorial, a historic site near where the atomic bomb exploded, dedicated to the many lives lost in Hiroshima. The burning flame that marks these graves "will only be extinguished when all nuclear weapons in the world are destroyed." This park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. After this solemn visit, board the train back to Osaka
Optional: Full Day Hiroshima & Miyajima
Overnight: Osaka
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Wednesday - Kyoto City Tour
Drive to Kyoto and embark on a tour of the historic city, founded in the 7th century, one of the early capitals of Japan and home of the country's most treasured remnants of Japanese imperial life. Start with a stop at Fushimi Inari Taisha, an impressive Shinto shrine that sits at the foot of Mount Inari. Marvel at the ten thousand vermilion torii gates that line the paths up the mountain. Afterward, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, where you participate in the ritualized art of preparing, serving and drinking green tea. Have lunch on your own. In the afternoon, visit to the celebrated gold-gilded Kinkaku-ji Temple, known as the "Golden Pavilion' surrounded by trees and nestled on a reflective pond. Conclude the city tour with a walk in Gion, Kyoto's most famous Geisha district; view the shops, restaurants and tea houses where Geisha entertain. Later, check into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure
Overnight: Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8, Thursday - Full Day in Kyoto
The morning is at leisure to enjoy this city on your own, or, embark on the optional tour to the 8th century Imperial capital of Nara. In this repository of Japan's cultural heritage, there are eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a wealth of historic treasures including some of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples. Arrive at the exquisite wooden Todai-ji Temple, home of the impressive Daibutsu (Great Buddha) bronze statue, rising over 50 feet high and visit the famous and beautiful Kasuga Grand Shrine displaying over 3,000 antique hanging bronze and stone lanterns. Continue to Nara Park to see the over 1,000 tame deer roaming freely in the peaceful park. Bid goodbye to your Tour Manager at dinner in the hotel
Optional: Imperial Capital of Nara (AM)
Overnight: Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9, Friday - Depart Japan
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast

Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.