Journey to the Heart of Japan

Click for the Japan group tour
Small Group Travel rewards travelers with new perspectives.
With just 12-24 passengers, these are the personal adventures
that today's cultural explorers dream of.
12 Days ● 15 Meals: 10 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners
HIGHLIGHTS... Private Sumo Show, Mt. Fuji 5th Station,
Overnight in Traditional Ryokan (Japanese Inn), Old Tokaido
Highway, Shabu-Shabu & Geisha Experience, Shinkansen
Bullet Train, Sushi-Making Class, Nara Park, Fushimi Inari
Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Taiko Drum Lesson
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
Day 1 Overnight Flight
Days 2 – 4 Courtyard Marriott Tokyo Ginza Hotel, Tokyo
Days 5, 6 Hakone Yunohana Prince Hotel, Hakone
Days 7 – 9 Nikko Princess Hotel Kyoto, Kyoto
Days 10, 11 Centara Grand Hotel Osaka, Osaka
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Day 1: Friday, March 26, 2027 Overnight Flight Get ready to
experience the essence of Japan — where serene gardens and
bustling cityscapes coexist in perfect harmony. Wander through
tranquil temples, marvel at cutting-edge design, and take in
stunning natural beauty in a country where deep-rooted
traditions blend with the pulse of modern life.
Day 2: Saturday, March 27, 2027 Tokyo, Japan Welcome to
Japan, the “Land of the Rising Sun." Arrive in the electrifying city
of Tokyo, where pop culture meets rich, long-kept traditions. In
consideration of varied arrival times, today is yours to explore
independently. Dive into Tokyo’s bustling streets, savor local
delicacies, or simply soak in the city's unique blend of ancient and
modern wonders.
Day 3: Sunday, March 28, 2027 Tokyo Today, immerse yourself in
Tokyo with a day of sightseeing. Marvel at the grandeur of the
Imperial Palace and wander through its serene East Garden.
Witness the captivating Goma fire ritual at Fukagawa Fudo-do
Temple, where devotion meets dramatic spectacle. Stroll through
Ginza’s streets, a blend of rich history and modern elegance. End
your day with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic
Japanese flavors. (B, D)
Day 4: Monday, March 29, 2027 Tokyo Begin your day at the
Tokyo National Museum, where centuries of art and history unfold
before you. Then, enjoy a unique experience — a private sumo
wrestler show, offering a glimpse into the world of these revered
athletes. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Tokyo at your
own pace. (B)
Day 5: Tuesday, March 30, 2027 Tokyo - Mt. Fuji 5th Station -
Hakone Say goodbye to Tokyo and embark on a scenic journey to
Hakone, a haven of natural beauty. At Mt. Fuji Fifth Station, take in
the breathtaking views* (weather permitting) of Japan’s iconic
peak — Mount Fuji’s snow-capped splendor is truly inspiring. This
evening, immerse yourself in Japanese tradition with a stay at a
ryokan-style hotel,** featuring tatami-matted rooms and sliding
paper doors. Delight in a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course feast that
highlights seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry. (B, D)
Day 6: Wednesday, March 31, 2027 Hakone Begin the day with
an ascent on the Komagatake Ropeway, followed by a short
walk*** to its summit, leading to panoramic views of Hakone’s
serene landscape. Next, drift along the waters of Lake Ashi aboard
a cruise ship, arriving at Hakone Sekisho-ato Pier, a historic
checkpoint from the Edo period. Walk in the footsteps of samurai
along the Old Tokaido Highway — the route once connecting
Tokyo and Kyoto — and stroll beneath towering trees on Ancient
Cedar Avenue.**** Later, be captivated by the sculptures and
exhibits at the Hakone Open-Air Museum. As night falls, enjoy a
traditional shabu-shabu dinner and the opportunity to meet a
geisha. (B, D)
Day 7: Thursday, April 1, 2027 Hakone - Kyoto Board the
Shinkansen (bullet train)***** and watch the scenery shift as you
glide toward Kyoto, where timeless tradition and modern charm
intertwine. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel. This evening, take a
stroll through the bustling Nishiki Market. Nicknamed “Kyoto’s
Kitchen” and dating back to the early 14th century, soak in this
scene where centuries-old food traditions and modern-day street
snacks mix. Sample local delicacies like soy-glazed grilled mochi
or kushi katsu, a deep-fried meat and vegetable skewer. (B)
Day 8: Friday, April 2, 2027 Kyoto This morning, experience the
peaceful beauty of Fushimi Inari Shrine before the crowds arrive.
This afternoon, visit the historic Gion district, where Kyoto’s
timeless charm comes to life. Walk along the flagstone-paved
streets and enjoy tastes of some of the local flavors, like Japanese
sweets, along the way. (B)
Day 9: Saturday, April 3, 2027 Kyoto Begin your morning with a
peaceful walk through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where soaring
bamboo stalks sway gently in the breeze. The rest of the day is
yours to explore Kyoto at your own pace — perhaps visit a hidden
temple, shop for local crafts, or relax in a teahouse. In the evening,
roll up your sleeves for a hands-on sushi-making experience, then
enjoy your delicious creations for dinner. (B, D)
Day 10: Sunday, April 4, 2027 Kyoto - Osaka Travel to Nara,
where sacred deer roam freely in Nara Park and history comes
alive at Todaiji Temple, home to Japan’s largest bronze Buddha.
Then, continue to Osaka for a guided walking tour through the
city’s lively Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi districts, where neon
lights, street food stalls, and bustling shops create a vibrant
atmosphere. The evening is yours to independently explore
Osaka, considered Japan’s culinary capital. (B)
Day 11: Monday, April 5, 2027 Osaka Start your day with a lesson
in taiko, a traditional Japanese drum. Then, visit Osaka Castle
Park,****** where we will see some of the main buildings and
sights connected to this city’s samurai legacy. End your visit early
afternoon to explore as you wish — perhaps visit a museum,
sample takoyaki from a street vendor, or stroll along the canal.
This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell
dinner celebrating an unforgettable adventure. (B, D)
Day 12: Tuesday, April 6, 2027 Osaka - Tour Ends Your journey
through Japan comes to a close today. With memories made and
stories to share, leave with a deeper connection to this
remarkable country. (B)
Click for the Japan group tour