The journey
A land of ancient traditions and forward-looking modernity, Japan blends bullet trains and Buddhist shrines, a hunger for innovation with a reverence for nature. Discover the incredible breadth of its culture and history on a private journey, from the vibrant culture of Tokyo to the tranquil charm of Kyoto, the historical significance of its temples and its culinary delights at a sought-after ryokan.
Day 1
Arrive Tokyo, Japan
With approximately 40 million residents, Tokyo is a dazzling city unique in the world. From the many-angled pedestrian dashes across Shibuya Crossing to the extravagant looks worn with panache in the Harajuku district, Tokyo offers a mad whirl of eclectic energy and culture framed by the distant backdrop of iconic Mount Fuji. Settle into your hotel, located near the Imperial Palace.
Day 2
Tokyo - Exclusive Workshop and Spiritual Centers
Visit Asakusa Kannon Temple, a colorful pagoda-style temple completed in 645 and dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Continue to a family-owned workshop that specializes in Japanese drum making — and try your hand at playing the taiko — on an Worldway Travels x A&K-exclusive experience. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the Edo-Tokyo Museum, built to preserve the heritage of the city’s last 400 years
Day 3
Tokyo - The Art of Sushi Making
Peruse a local fish market, a bustling hub of Japanese daily life boasting a dizzying array of seafood. Then receive a lesson in sushi making, followed by lunch, during a chef-led culinary experience. This afternoon, let curiosity be your guide as you explore this buzzing city on your own.
Day 4
Hakone - Traditional Ryokan
Travel to Hakone, among Japan’s most popular hot-spring destinations and a peaceful contrast with bustling Tokyo. Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, boarding an aerial tram for inspiring views of Mount Fuji. Stroll the grassy hillsides of Hakone’s Open Air Museum, admiring the sculptures and artworks on display, including pieces by Henry Moore and Rodin. The
Day 5
Osaka - Dotonbori District Delicacies
Start at the Okada Museum of Art to view its stunning collection of paintings, ceramics, lacquerware and bronzes from Japan, Korea and China, and then ride by bullet train to Osaka. Historically known as a merchant city, it is today renowned as Japan’s undisputed culinary capital, where diners indulge in everything from octopus dumplings to okonomiyaki, a battered, grilled concoction of chopped ca
Day 6
Nara - A Profoundly Spiritual Heritage
Travel to Nara, Japan’s first capital, to visit Todai-ji, a UNESCO-listed temple complex that holds the largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan. Proceed to Nara Park, home to hundreds of deer, venerated here as divine spirits, which you may feed by hand. Experience a Shinto ceremony at the celebrated Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and then eat lunch. Then return to your hotel in Osaka.
Day 7
Kyoto - The Golden Pavilion and Bamboo Grove
This morning, travel to Kyoto, a beloved city with more than 1,200 years of history. Considered by many to be the spiritual heart of Japan, it is graced with more than 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Stop for a meditative moment at the iconic Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, and then discover the glittering Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion). Covered with gold leaf and surrounded by green
Day 8
Kyoto - Hillside Views and Tea Traditions
Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple for inspiring views of Kyoto. At another temple, experience the art of the tea ceremony, noting its refined sense of hospitality and etiquette, which dates to the time of the samurai. The afternoon is yours to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 9
Depart Kyoto
Take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
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