Custom 11 Day Japan Explorer

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Tokyo Arrival

Upon arrival you will be met at the airport and guided to your transportation to Tokyo.
Airport limousine bus to your Tokyo hotel.

Day 2 - Tokyo

This full day tour will give you an amazing introduction to this multi-faceted metropolis.
Highlights include:

* Tokyo Tower - Enjoy a panorama of Tokyo from the main observation platform.
* Meiji Shrine - Take in a fine example of Japanese shrine architecture, nestled in a peaceful, picturesque area.
* Imperial Palace East Garden - Enjoy a pleasant walk in the East Garden of the Imperial Palace
* Japanese Style Lunch - Enjoy a Japanese style lunch. Vegetarian Menu is available on request.
* Sumida River Cruise - Enjoy a boat ride and see a harmonious blend of old and new Tokyo.
* Asakusa Kannon Temple & Nakamise Shopping Street - Famous cultural landmark in Tokyo. Walk down an active shopping street “Nakamise” leading to one of the finest Buddhist temples in Japan.
* Kappabashi (Drive through) - This part of Tokyo sells restaurant supplies and wax food samples.

Day 3 - Nikko

Enjoy a day trip to Nikko, a Unesco World Heritage site two hours north of Tokyo. Highlights include: Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Water Fall.

Day 4 - Hida-takayama

You will take the train from Tokyo the scenic and remote mountain region of Takayama.
The bullet train from Tokyo to Nagoya, and then a JR limited express train to Takayama.
Enjoy the mountain air and the atmosphere of old Japan - a completely different feel from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

Day 5 - Shirakawa-go

You will travel by bus to nearby Shirakawa-go, a Unesco World Heritage Site due to its incredibly well-preserved architecture. A remarkable experience of what Japan used to be like.

Day 6 - Kanazawa

You will travel by bus to the nearby city of Kanazawa, a city known for its amazing seafood, and the fact that it survived WWII relatively unscathed. This makes it one of the best-preserved old cities in Japan.
Kanazawa's old town is spectacular. Explore its old geisha quarters and traditional gardens at your leisure.

Day 7 - Kyoto

You will travel by limited express train to Kyoto and check in to your Kyoto hotel.
In the afternoon enjoy a walking tour of Kyoto. Highlights include:

* Kiyomizu Temple - This architecturally unique temple has a main hall on a steep slope with a wooden platform supported by pillars, from which a panoramic view of Kyoto can be enjoyed.
* Kodaiji Temple - Temple commemorates Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a great general in 16th century. It was founded by his widow.
* Yasaka Shrine - Well known as the central site for the Gion-Matsuri Festival, held in summer.
* Gion District - Gion is one of the famous entertainment and geisha quarters, with traditional restaurants and tea-houses. In the Edo Period, ochaya (geisha houses) were built in this area. It still retains its tranquil, old-fashioned charm.

Day 8 - Nara

In the morning head to Nara where you will enjoy a morning walking tour. Highlights include:

* Round trip by Kintetsu Express Train to Nara
* Todaiji Temple - The temple has an enormous bronze Buddha image within its Daibutsuden Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
* Nara Park (Deer Park) - Walk among the 1,100 or so tame deer roaming about the park. They are considered divine messengers.
* Kofukuji Temple - This temple was transferred from Kyoto in 710. It has a five-story pagoda, the second highest in Japan.

Day 9 - Kyoto

Enjoy a morning tour of Kyoto with highlights including: Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto Imperial Palace, and the Kyoto Handicraft Center.

Day 10 - Kyoto

You will board the bullet train at Kyoto station bound for Tokyo.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you please.

Day 11 - Departure from Japan

You will be met at your hotel and transferred to Narita airport for your flight back to the US.

Accommodation Information

Ark Hotel Tokyo

The Ark Hotel Kyoto is ideally situated five minutes from the center of downtown Kyoto. Suitable for business and leisure travelers alike the Ark Hotel Kyoto successfully blends old-world service with 21st century conveniences to make your stay truly comfortable and memorable.

Hida Takayama Washington Hotel Plaza

Located in front of JR Takayama Station, it is the closest hotel to the staion in Takayma area.

Hisamatsu

The Hisamatsu is a truly authentic experience. Enjoy delicious home made meals prepared by your local hosts, as well as the beautiful natural surroundings that Shirakawago has to offer.

Apa Hotel Kyoto

Conviently located near the train station, shrines, bike rental shop, and post office.
The rooms are cozy and functional.
Helpful and friendly English-speaking staff.