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Japan Cultural & Scenic Journey
Highlights:
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Discover the dynamic capital of Tokyo, from the Imperial Palace and Senso-ji Temple to panoramic views at Tokyo Skytree and the vibrant Shibuya district.
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Travel by Shinkansen bullet train and scenic local railways through the picturesque countryside of Shizuoka, experiencing authentic Japanese tea culture.
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Step back in time in Takayama and Shirakawa-go (UNESCO World Heritage Site), exploring Edo-period streets, morning markets, and traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
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Experience the refined elegance of Kanazawa, including Kenrokuen Garden, samurai residences, and geisha heritage.
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Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Kyoto, visiting Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and participating in a traditional tea ceremony.
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Reflect on history in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and admire the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.
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Enjoy carefully selected accommodations and seamless guided travel throughout Japan’s most cultural and scenic destinations.
Itinerary
Arrival in Tokyo, airport transfer to hotel, followed by a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Start your day at the Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, admire the historic palace walls and moats, and
enjoy a peaceful introduction to Tokyo’s rich heritage.
Next, head to Asakusa, where you’ll visit Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Wander along Nakamise Street, filled with traditional shops offering souvenirs and snacks,
before reaching the temple’s iconic red lantern and ornate architecture.
Have lunch at local restaurant.
Continue to the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape from the observation deck and enjoy a moment to capture
the perfect photo.
End your day in Shibuya, Tokyo’s vibrant hub of youth culture. Experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, explore lively streets full of shops and cafes, and snap a photo with the
beloved Hachiko statue.
This tour offers a seamless mix of history, culture, and modern Tokyo, giving you a full snapshot of the city in one exciting day.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Free to explore at your leisure. (no car, no guide)
Destination suggestion: Harajuku fish market, Ponds of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Ueno Park
Overnight in Tokyo.
Start your adventure by taking the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo to Shizuoka, enjoying a fast and scenic ride through the Japanese countryside.
Upon arrival, meet your guide in Shizuoka and continue to the Oigawa Railway, a charming local train line that winds along rivers and tea fields, offering a picturesque view of rural Japan.
The tour concludes at a green tea venue, where you’ll discover the art of Shizuoka’s famous tea and learn traditional brewing methods.
Overnight in Shizuoka.
Have lunch at local restaurant.
Continue to Takayama Town, where you can explore the charming streets of this historic town, filled with traditional houses, local shops, and a glimpse into old Japan.
Overnight in Takayama.
Start your morning at the Miyagawa Morning Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional snacks. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and
discover local specialties.
Next, visit Takayama Jinya, a historic government building from the Edo period, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s administrative past.
Have lunch at local restaurant.
Continue to the Takayama Museum of History and Art, where you can explore artifacts, traditional crafts, and exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
End your day with a sake tasting at a local brewery, experiencing Japan’s famous rice wine and learning about the brewing process from local experts.
Overnight in Takayama.
Begin your journey with a visit to the town of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and scenic mountain setting. Explore the
historic village and take in its unique architecture and rural charm.
Continue to the city of Kanazawa, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens, known for its seasonal
beauty, ponds, and traditional tea houses.
Have lunch at local restaurant.
Finally, explore the Nomura Family Samurai House, a preserved residence that offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a samurai family during the Edo period, with its elegant architecture
and gardens.
Overnight in Kanazawa.
Begin your day with a visit to the Shima Geisha House, where you can learn about the traditions and history of geisha culture in the region.
Next, explore Omicho Market, a lively local market famous for fresh seafood, regional produce, and traditional snacks. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere as you wander through the
colorful stalls.
After your morning in Kanazawa, board the train and travel comfortably to Kyoto, Japan’s historic capital, ready for your next adventure.
Overnight in Kyoto.
Start your day at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the historic temple complex and enjoy stunning views of the city from its famous wooden terrace.
Next, visit Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” where you can stroll through lively stalls offering fresh seafood, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs.
Continue to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the grandeur of Japan’s feudal era, with beautifully preserved architecture and gardens.
Have lunch at local restaurant.
Experience a traditional tea ceremony at a local tea house, where you’ll learn the art of Japanese tea preparation and enjoy freshly brewed matcha in a serene setting.
Overnight in Kyoto.
Start your day with a visit to Okochi Mountain Villa, a beautiful hillside estate offering stunning gardens, traditional architecture, and panoramic views of Kyoto.
Next, stroll through the Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, an iconic natural wonder where towering bamboo stalks create a serene and magical atmosphere.
Have lunch at local restaurant.
Continue to Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 life-sized statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, and its striking wooden architecture.
End your day at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of bright red torii gates winding up the sacred mountain trails.
Overnight in Kyoto.
Start your journey with a ride on the Nozomi Shinkansen from Kyoto to Hiroshima, enjoying a fast and scenic trip through Japan’s countryside.
Upon arrival, meet your guide in Hiroshima. Have lunch at local restaurant.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a poignant site dedicated to remembering the events of 1945. Explore the park and memorials that honor the city’s history and resilience.
Transfer to hotel for check-in and rest.
Overnight in Hiroshima.
Begin your day in Hiroshima and take a short trip to Miyajima Island, famous for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, known for its “floating” torii gate that appears to float on the water during high tide. Explore the shrine’s historic architecture and serene surroundings.
Stroll around Miyajima Island, enjoying its natural scenery, local shops, and traditional snacks, before returning to Hiroshima or continuing your journey back to Kyoto.
Have lunch at local restaurant.
Overnight in Kyoto.
Free to enjoy at leisure in Kyoto (no car, no guide).
Farewell Dinner at local restaurant with car.
Overnight in Kyoto.
Transferred by coach from hotel to Kansai International Airport (Osaka) for leaving flight. End of services.
FAQ
Travel insurance is not included in your tour price. It is the passenger's responsibility to verify whether his/her local health insurance carrier provides coverage while traveling. Please contact your insurance carrier for details. We can suggest you the insurance carrier case by case.
We strongly advises that you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy to cover all aspects of your tour: the loss of deposits through cancellation, lost of baggage and personal items, personal injury and death. A waiver must be signed if insurance is declined.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months following your entry date to your travel destination. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a valid passport and visa and all travel documents are valid for travel.
Zen Vacation is not responsible for any loss, injury or damage sustained by passengers. Additional expenses incurred due to delays, accidents, natural disaster, epidemic or political actions and unrest must be borne by the passengers. Passengers are required to have full travel insurance. Airline schedules and local conditions may affect accommodation and itineraries. Should this occur, Zen Vacation will endeavor to substitute a suitable arrangement of similar value. Participation on any tours implies full agreement to the above conditions by all parties involved.
No refund will be given for any unused service after the trip has commenced or during the tour.
NON REFUNDABLE deposit of US$ 100 per person upon the packages tours services confirmation will be applied.
Cancellations will be charged as follow:
- 45 days prior to the arrival date: Non Refundable deposit charge and the cancellation fees applied by the concerned services suppliers such as flight company, boat company, train, hotels... in accordance with their cancellations policies if any.
- 44 - 31 days prior to arrival date: Cancellations fee of 30% per group/booking and plus the cancellation fees applied by the concerned services suppliers such as flight company, boat company, train, hotels... in accordance with their cancellations policies if any.
- 30 days - 15 days prior to arrival date: Cancellations fee of 50% per group/booking plus the cancellation fees applied by the concerned services suppliers such as flight company, boat company, train, hotels... in accordance with their cancellations policies if any.
- 14 - 7 days before arrival: Cancellations fee 70% charge plus the cancellation fees applied by the concerned services suppliers such as flight company, boat company, train, hotels... in accordance with their cancellations policies if any.
- Less than 7 days before arrival Or No show: 100% charge per group/booking.
** Nonrefundable deposit and banking service fee will be forfeited in all cancellation cases.
You can amend your booking when the confirmation is made. The extra expense may occurred will be informed to you before you decide to amend the services or travel date.
- Maximum 1 child can share the parent's existing bedding.
- Children under 2 years old are free of charge for land services, only charge fee from airlines if have.
- Children from 2-6 years old: 50% of adult price, or quote case by case
- Children from 7-11 years old: 75% of adult price, or quote case by case
- Children from 12 years old up: 100% adult price
Deposit of 20% of the total of tour is required upon confirmation of booking tour. The full prepayment will need to be made 45 days before departure for all services by money transfer or credit card payment with all bank transfer charges/ fees to be paid by the client.