THE BASICS
DURATION: 8 DAYS
CITIES: Tokyo, Nagano, Kanazawa, Takayama, and Kawaguchiko
SIDE TRIPS: Shirakawa-go, Takayama, Kiso Valley, Yamanouchi
about this trip
From super cities to ancient towns and rural villages, experience the treasure trove that central Japan has to offer. Breathe in the rush of Tokyo, take a dive into the rich cultural past of Kanazawa, and enjoy the absolutely stunning beauty and depth of Shirakawa-go and Takayama.
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Get lost in the towns in Kyoto and Kanazawa, and experience the way of life from centuries past
Follow the long history of Japan through the legacies of Buddhist influence and unique Gassho-zukuri housing in Shirakawago
Experience omotenashi, or a combination of great service and top-notch cuisine unique to Japanese culture at the finest hotels, including the famous Kayou-tei in Kanazawa
Sample Itinerary to Get you Started
Day 1-3 (tokyo)
Starting at the traditional site of Asakusa, we’ll tour you around one of the most famous temples of Japan before bringing you to the gorgeous gardens of Hamarikyu Park, where you can enjoy the exclusive experience of a traditional tea ceremony. After a relaxing break, we’ll swing you down to the residence of the Emperor, the Imperial Palace itself, for a tour around the spectacular Imperial Palace Gardens. And if you are interested in traditional Japanese theater, we can prepare seats for you at the prestigious Kabuki-za theater of Ginza.
Day 4-5 (kanazawa)
The brand new bullet-train service has made your trip from Tokyo to Kanazawa fast, easy and luxurious. Known as little Kyoto, Kanazawa remains one of Japan’s major cultural sites, garnering recognition from UNESCO as Japan’s representative city of arts and crafts. Ever since its prominence during the Edo Period as the second largest domain of Japan, Kanazawa has continued the trend of its first daimyo patron in devoting itself to developing cultural appreciation in both the arts and cuisine. Its long historical background and cultural depth certainly show in the numerous gardens and artisan streets that line the old castle and entertainment districts. Marvel at Japan’s most celebrated garden, Kenrokuen, and wander through the ages in the east entertainment district. You might even find yourself enjoying an adventure through the trap-filled "Ninja Temple". Full of engaging and educational activities, Kanazawa is the perfect place for everyone, including groups and families.
Day 6 (side trip to shirakawago)
Venture off the city roads for a day trip to one of Japan’s most beautiful rural areas. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa Village is known for one of Japan’s most unique architectural styles known as the Minka-style Gassho-zukuri. The sight of these beautifully woven, traditional thatched rooftops in a quiet rural village surrounded by the natural beauty of the land is simply beyond words throughout the seasons. You will spend the night in Takayama, allowing you to prepare for another day ahead of you.
Day 7 (takayama and kawaguchiko)
A center for skilled carpentry and lumbering since the feudal ages, Takayama has preserved its history in the form of its own unique traditional crafts and architectural structures. Stroll around and feel the warmth of the old Japanese neighborhoods. Finish your long stay in Japan with a visit to a hot spring by the foot of Mt. Fuji.
Heads up: not always able to stay at foreign luxury hotel chains, but will provide the best of local luxury ryokan/hotels
day 8 (tokyo)
Reflect on your long stay and tell us what you missed and where you would like to revisit. This is the last chance for you to get some last-minute shopping and visits done until the next time you visit Japan.
heads up:
We will not always able to provide foreign luxury hotel accommodations, but we will provide the best of local luxury ryokan/hotels
