Grand and Golden, The Total Japan Experience (14 days, 13 nights)

Who is this for?
This 14-day trip weaves through Japan’s classic sights and lesser-known treasures, beginning and ending in Tokyo. Designed with first-time visitors in mind, it covers a wide stretch of the country. It offers mix of must-see spots, cultural moments, and some deeper gems that people overlook. This journey is for those who want it all. 

- This is a private tour. Only you and your group will participate. 
- This trip can be tailored according to your preferences. Please feel free to inquire about any specific requests ahead of time. 

Physical Activity: Low - Medium
Length of Trip:  14 days, 13 nights
Capacity:  12 - 30 people

Itinerary:

TOKYO    |    3 nights
Day 1: Arrival Day and Welcome Dinner 
Included meals:  Dinner
On the first day, arrival at the airport is followed by a warm welcome from a guide and a transfer to the hotel. After some leisure time to relax and settle in, the evening consists of a journey to Shinjuku for a welcome dinner, offering an opportunity to experience one of Tokyo's vibrant districts.

Day 2: A Relaxing Start in Tokyo
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
On the second morning, peaceful stroll through the Imperial Palace East Gardens. Next, explore the vibrant Asakusa district and Senso-ji Temple. Conclude the day with a visit to the Tokyo National Museum. This relaxed tour after a long flight offers an introduction to some of Tokyo’s highlights. 

Day 3: The Quintessential Tokyo Experience 
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Vibrant cityscapes with timeless traditions, the second day will give travelers a chance to experience historic sites and iconic destinations that connect past and present.

 
MATSUMOTO    |     1 night
Day 4: Coast to Mountain
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A day of culture and nature: Begin with Kamakura’s Giant Buddha, then enjoy a scenic Lake Ashi cruise in Hakone. On clear days, glimpses of Mt.Fuji can be seen here. Finish with a majestic view of Mt. Fuji from Kawaguchi Lake. Settle into Matsumoto for the night. 

TAKAYAMA    |     1 night
Day 5: A Step Back in Time in Takayama Traditional Town 
Included meals: Breakfast,  Lunch, Dinner

Visit Matsumoto Castle, renowned for its striking black exterior and well-preserved, picturesque main residence. Head over to Takayama and experience an old Japan with its well-preserved Edo-period streets, local crafts, and mountain-town charm that feels a world away from the big cities. See Sanmachi District, a charming area known for its traditional wooden houses and atmospheric streets. 

KANAZAWA     |     2 night
Day 6: Shirakawago Thatched Roof Village 
Included meals: Breakfast,  Lunch, Dinner

Start the day at Miyagawa Morning Market in Takayama, a lively spot offering fresh local foods and crafts. Explore Shirakawa Village, renowned for its thatched roof hourses and traditional lifestyle. In Kanazawa, visit Kenrokuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Conclude the night in Kanazawa. 

Day 7: Seafood, Strolls, and Stories that Stay
Included meals: Breakfast,  Lunch, Dinner

Explore Omicho Fish Market, Kanazawa’s lively culinary heart where locals have sourced fresh seafood for centuries. Then stroll through Higashi Chaya District, once a center of geisha culture. In the afternoon, transfer to Hiroshima to see the Peace Memorial Museum and Peace Park and learn about resilience and hope. 

OKAYAMA  |     1 night
Day 8: Floating Gates and Kurashiki’s Quiet Charm
Included meals: Breakfast,  Lunch, Dinner

Spiritual landmarks and history: Start with a visit to Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its bright floating torii gate. Then transfer to Kurashiki to wander through the historic Bikan district, known for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture and charming canals. Spend the night in Okayama and rest up for the adventure to come.

TAKAMATSU |     1 night
Day 9: Garden Mornings to Udon Nights 
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend a peaceful morning at Korakuen Garden, celebrated for its traditional design and one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan!  Transfer to Shikoku and explore Kotohira Shrine. Visit the historic stone Sayo Bridge, before concluding the day in Takamatsu known for it's udon. This day is full of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and charming local experiences.

KYOTO |     3 nights
Day 10: The Bridge To Kyoto
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A scenic drive and cultural marvels: Drive to Kyoto via Awaji Island, crossing the impressive Akashi Kaiyo Bridge with its stunning views of the coast and ocean. In Kyoto, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. End the day exploring the historic Gion District, known for its traditional wooden houses and geisha culture. 

Day 11: Iconic Kyoto, Quiet Kyoto
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A day of architectural beauty with  spiritual landmarks: This day starts at the Golden Pavilion, renowned for its stunning gold leaf exterior and tranquil pond. Continue to Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its rock garden and zen atmosphere. Then visit, Nijo Castle, venture the lively alleyways before exploring Kiyomizu Temple.

Day 12: Day Trip to Nara
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 
Nara offers a peaceful escape into Japan’s ancient heart, where nature, history, and culture come together in a serene setting. Spend the day with the deer. Start with a stroll through Nara Park, where the friendly deer wander at ease, and then step inside Todaiji Temple to witness the awe-inspiring Great Buddha statue, a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship.

TOKYO |     1 night
Day 13: Osaka the Food Capital to Tokyo the Capital 
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day uncovering Osaka. Start with a walk through history at Osaka Castle, then dive into the energy of Dotonbori’s neon-lit streets. Snack your way through Kuromon Market’s street food stalls, and leave the evening open for shopping or getting pleasantly lost in the city’s endless corners. Head to Tokyo for the evening.

Day 14: Back Home
Included meals: Breakfast
Your next destination? Home sweet home. But remember, it's not sayonara yet, it's "See you soon!" The question is, where to from here?

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