Taste of Japan
Trip Details
- Duration: 14 days
- Visited Areas: Japan
Steeped in centuries of culinary tradition, Japan is nothing less than a treasure trove of exotic cuisine, potent sake and sweet delights. From Tokyo to Kyoto, our adventure takes us into the heart of Japan, enjoying a smorgasbord of treats in a variety of settings. To complete the recipe, we mix in plenty of culture and top it off with some of Japan´s best attractions. Be tempted by tempura, savour your sushi and tickle your tastebuds as we discover the endless variety of Japan and its cuisine.
Itinerary
Days 1-2 Tokyo
Embark on an epicurean adventure beneath the neon lights of Tokyo. The city dazzles with excellent restaurants, making it an ideal launching pad into the diversity of Japanese cuisine. Learn to make soba noodles and visit Tsukiji Fish Market, where more than 400 different types of seafood are sold.
Days 3-4 Takayama
Nestled in the mountains, beautiful Takayama is a quaint cluster of traditional inns and sake breweries. Check out the town's 600-year-old morning market, visit the outdoor museum of the Hida Folk Village and sip on some local sake.
Days 5-6 Koya-san
Steeped in mysticism and religious history, the temples of Koya-san provide a tranquil setting for trying its shojin ryori (vegetarian cuisine) and joining the resident monks in meditation.
Days 7-8 Osaka
Partake in the local custom of 'kuidaore' (to eat until you drop), and indulge in the smorgasbord of delights on Dotombori - Osaka's 'eat street'. Don't miss the local treat of takoyaki (octopus balls), while culinarily courageous diners can feast on fugu pufferfish.
Days 9-10 Hiroshima
Be inspired by the beauty of Itsukushima-jinja on the island of Miyajima before sampling the city's famed okonomiyaki, an egg-based savoury pancake. Hiroshima is also renowned for its oysters and momiji manju, a treat filled with sweet bean paste.
Days 11-14 Kyoto
Revel in the opulence of Himeji-jo en route to Kyoto, a city steeped in tradition and which boasts incredible natural beauty and a noticeable lack of tall buildings. Learn to prepare traditional cuisine, which emphasises freshness, seasonality and elegance.
