Wonders of Japan (12 days)

Upon arrival to Tokyo’s airport, a chauffeur will be waiting to provide private transport to the hotel in Tokyo.

After the check-in, meet up with the guide for an orientation session to catch some first glimpses of the visual feast that is Tokyo.

Time:

Start (guided tour): upon arrival in Tokyo Duration: 4.5 h

Distance and journey time (approximation):

Narita International Airport (NRT) to Central Tokyo: 1.5 h

Haneda International Airport (HND) to Central Tokyo: 50 min

Overnight in Tokyo

Today visit the hive of activity that is Tsukiji Outer Market. While the inner wholesale fish market has been relocated to Toyosu, the outer market – which boasts around 400 shops – remains a lively centre for visitors and locals alike to enjoy delicious food, and purchase kitchenware and a variety of local specialties.

Next, head to Zojoji Temple, which was originally built in 1393 as the head temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism in the Kanto region, before being moved to its present location in 1598 by the shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa, who selected it as his family temple and mausoleum.

The iconic Tokyo Tower stands in close proximity to the temple, and provides the perfect photo opportunity. After taking some memorable snapshots, move on to the next stop of the tour, Nijubashi Bridge.

Afterwards, the rest of the day is at leisure until the evening tour.

In the evening, head down to one of the atmospheric local eateries and small Japanese-style pubs, which can be found below the train tracks along the Yamanote Line between Shimbashi and Yurakucho stations, for some drinks and appetisers. Start-off by raising a toast in the charming company of epicurean guides in a kushiage bar. Kushiage is a popular accompaniment to drinks, and consist of deep-fried skewered vegetables, seafood, and meat.

The next stop on the itinerary is a distinctive, cozy restaurant run by a charismatic owner who is well-loved by regular customers for her excellent cuisine and delightful conversation. A variety of seasonal dishes are on offer here. The third stop of the evening will be chosen based on the clients’ tipple of choice: Japanese craft beer, sake, or whisky.

Finally, visit Shimbashi Yokocho, a typical Japanese alley chock-full of those beloved Japanese eateries known as izakaya.

Be sure to bring an empty stomach and an adventurous spirit to make the most of this exclusive experience, which will offer insights into the customs and conventions of Tokyo’s nightlife.

Overnight in Tokyo

Today is a self-guided day.

Engage in one of our specialized tours in Tokyo – embark on an architecture tour, watch kabuki with an expert, explore the world of Japanese s wordsmiths or have a delightful evening with a food expert.

Optional Tour (1): Cool Tokyo Cycling

Embark on a cycling tour unlike any other and discover the lesser known and more uncommon areas of Tokyo, including some spots not mentioned in guide books. Thanks to an experienced, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic cyclist guide, uncover some of the favorite haunts of the locals

Optional Tour (2): Tokyo Hidden Gems Tour

Get an early start and, accompanied by an expert guide, discover the hidden treasures Tokyo has to offer. Wander the city’s backstreets, stumbling across tiny shrines and temples, traditional festivals, artisan shops, and cozy eateries serving some of the best food visitors will ever taste in Japan.

Optional Tour (3): Home Visit and Luxury Kimono

Today, be immersed in Japanese culture with this insightful half day experience in Tokyo. Visit the house of a charming Tokyo lady who owns a vast kimono collection.

Overnight in Tokyo

Today is a self-guided day.

Get up early this morning and head to Tokyo Station by private car. The first leg of the trip is on a bullet train that can reach speeds of up to 260 km/h. This is followed by a ride on the limited express train Wide View, which offers one of the most scenic train journeys in Japan. Travel in style in the comfortable Green Class.

Suggested self-guided itinerary:

We recommend strolling in Takayama’s shitamachi, where the streets are lined with century-old merchants’ homes and sake breweries. Stop by one of the breweries for a taste of the local drop or queue for the famous Hida beef sushi in one of the special food stalls.

In Takayama, experience staying in a ryokan, the traditional Japanese-style inn that features paper sliding doors, futon beds and tatami flooring. The best property would be Hidatei Hanaougi, which has some private outdoor baths and a spacious Japanese garden.

Distance and journey time (approximation): Tokyo Station to Takayama Station: 4.5 h

Overnight in Takayama

Bring an appetite and a sense of adventure for this food-focused guided day tour. Meet with a local food-loving guide in Takayama this morning. Start with a walk around the old town, mingling with the locals while browsing the streets lined with food shops, cafes and residential houses. See unusual typical Japanese ingredients on offer, such as miso paste, and learn how they are used in traditional cuisine. Sample some of Takayama’s famous delicacies such as rice dumplings dipped in soy sauce and homemade sweets. Then, visit a sake brewery to see how this popular drink is made and try a sample of this local specialty.

Around midday, transfer by taxi to Hida Furukawa, a small farm village just next to Takayama. Hop on a bicycle and begin the scenic Hida Furukawa cycling experience, soaking in the idyllic Alpine village. Cycle down quiet lanes to see traditional houses and cross through rice paddies. The houses of this region are of particular note as the local carpenters are deemed to be some of the best in Japan. (Please note, this aspect of the tour is not available between late October and December due to weather.)

After exploring the best of Hida and its surroundings, return to Takayama by taxi. Arrive at the hotel late this afternoon for a chance to freshen up and relax before dinner.

Distance and journey time (approximation): Takayama to Hida-Furukawa: 25 min (drive) Total cycling distance: up to 22 km

Availability and time:

Late March to December: 10:00-16:00

*Tour dates, especially right before and after winter, may be altered depending on a number of factors (i.e. snow, weather, sunset times, etc.).

Overnight in Takayama

Today, be ready for the journey to the next destination. A private car will pick guests at their accommodation and head through the Hida region to discover the splendid sights of the charming, historic village of Gokayama, which are tucked away in the scenic Japan Alps. The houses in this region are built in a very particular way, in gassho-zukuri style.

Gassho-zukuri means "constructed like hands in prayer," which is represented by the shape of the farmhouses' steep, thatched roofs. This architectural style was developed over many generations – the roofs were constructed without the use of any nails, and are intricately designed to withstand large amounts of snow. Enjoy a stroll in the village and learn everything about the Japan Alps way of life.

Afterwards, head to Kaga Onsen, a small yet elegant hot spring resort situated at the foot of the sacred Mt. Hakusan. Kaga Onsen welcomes guests who are in search for a relaxing escape. Its four onsen (hot spring), namely, Yamashiro, Yamanaka, Awazu, and Katayamazu, have unique characteristics, giving guests a variety of experiences. Public baths can also be found in the center of each town.

Overnight in Kaga Onsen at Beniya Mukayu

Together with the guide, head to Kaga Onsen station and take the train to Kanazawa, the castle town that thrived as the center for culture and the arts in the 17th century.

First, visit the pristine Kenroku-en Garden, ranked as one of Japan’s top three gardens. Discover the oldest water fountain in the country, a couple of teahouses, and a large villa that used to be the retirement home of one of the richest clans in Kanazawa.

Adjacent to the garden is Kanazawa Castle, easily accessed through the Ishikawa-mon Gate, a designated Important National Cultural Asset.

Lunch can be in one of the local restaurants in Omicho Market, known throughout Japan for its fresh seafood and fine sushi.

Lastly, visit Higashi Chaya, one of the three, well-preserved chaya (teahouse) districts in Kanazawa. It also has several artisan shops, including Hakuza, a specialized store that sells gold leaf products and features a tearoom covered in gold.

Time: Start (guided tour): 09:00 Duration: 8 h *including pick-up/drop-off and transit times

Overnight in Kaga Onsen at Beniya Mukayu

Today is a self-guided day.

Get ready for the journey by limited express train to Kyoto, home to around 2,000 shrines and temples, 17 of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, our private chauffeur will take guests to the hotel in Kyoto. After the check-in, meet up with the guide for an orientation session in this beautiful cultural city.

Time: Start (guided tour): upon arrival in Kyoto Duration: 4.5 h

*including pick-up/drop-off and transit times

Distance and journey time (approximation): Kaga Onsen Station to Kyoto Station: 2 h 15 min

Overnight in Kyoto

Today, spend the morning free at leisure. It is possible to arrange a private car to tour the city with (must be booked in advance; supplementary charges apply).

In the afternoon, meet with the guide and head to Daitokuji, a sprawling Zen complex hiding dozens of small temples behind weathered walls.

Enter the host’s traditional wooden home on the edge of the temple complex and begin the tea ceremony. Watch as matcha tea is prepared, and then learn to savour both the moment and the flavour in each cup.

After the ceremony, visitors are free to ask questions about the ritual and the host’s unique style of traditional living. Part ways and return to the hotel via private vehicle.

Following this interactive experience, take a walking tour around Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. Stop by Kiyomizu Temple for a short tour of this architectural masterpiece. Climb to its 13-metre high veranda, which was built without the use of any kind of joiners, and enjoy an impressive view of Kyoto.

In the evening, continue with walking tour of Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district, followed by a truly special dinner with a maiko!

Start with an introduction, listening as the guide explains about geiko, the local name for Kyoto’s geisha, and their maiko, or apprentices. Then explore the atmospheric streets, walking past local shops and restaurants on the way to Yasaka Shrine. From here continue to Hanami-koji where lavish tea shops line the roadside.

Cross Kyoto’s famous Tatsumi Bashi Bridge, passing a legendary teahouse and small street shrine along the way. Arrive at Shirakawa Canal for a walk along the streets which are lined with cherry trees and brimming with charm.

After the walking tour, enter a local restaurant for a memorable dinner in the company of a maiko. Dine on a traditional multi-course meal called kaiseki ryori. During dinner, the maiko will entertain by performing traditional dances and teaching popular Japanese drinking games.

Return to the hotel.

Overnight in Kyoto

Today, spend the day free at leisure. It is possible to arrange a private car to tour the city with (must be booked in advance; supplementary charges apply).

Optional Activities:

- Arashiyama Rickshaw Tour

- Kyoto’s Backstreet Tour by Bike

- A Taste of Gion Food tour

- Lake Biwa Wellness Retreat

Overnight in Kyoto

Today, explore the ancient capital Nara with the guide, travelling around on a private car until Osaka. Nara is a small town that used to be Japan’s capital for 74 years during the 8th century. Most of its main tourist spots are located around Nara Park, where a great number of tamed deer reside.

Visit Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden building and home to Japan’s largest Buddha, or Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s most celebrated shrine.

Afterwards, continue the journey to Osaka, Japan’s culinary capital. Osaka’s flamboyance, fun-loving people, and amazing food make up for what it lacks in tourist attractions.

After the check-in at the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in Osaka

The rest of the day is at leisure until transport by private vehicle to Kansai International Airport for the departing flight.

Distance and journey time (approximation):

St Regis to Kansai Airport: 50 min