Meals

Welcome Dinner at l ocal izakaya in Tokyo Breakfast daily 3 Lunches [Tokyo (Sushi), Kyoto (Shabu-Shabu), & Gokayama (Soba Noodles)] 2 Japanese full-course meals (kaiseki) at your ryokans (taste the seasonal local produce from each region where you stay) Farewell Dinner in Tokyo

Accommodation

13 Nights Stay in carefully selected top-class hotels and ryokans: 11 Nights in Boutique and Superior Western Hotels (Standard, Superior & Deluxe combined) 2 Nights in Authentic Luxurious Ryokans with hot springs & Kaiseki dinner in Yudanaka Onsen & Hakone. Experience the atmosphere of two different styles of ryokans, some small & traditional, others larger and more modern. All ryokans have hot spring baths and include an exquisite evening meal. Sleeping will be on futons, generally. If you have any issues with this, tell us early. We can request a bed for you instead (but cannot guarantee this). If you have any dietary requirements or allergies, we need to know this at booking stage too.

Guide

6 days with private local guides in: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Gokayama, Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Miyajima Daily local English-speaking Tour Leader* ( Group Size: 6 persons – 12 persons) *If your tour has less than 6 people on it, we will arrange the tour on a semi-escorted basis. What does this mean? ( You will met in each area by our local assistants and guides on days you don’t have private guides).

Others

Fixed Price Policy & 100% Financial Protection Essential Travel Pack (See below) Local Emergency Contact All Taxes & Accommodation Surcharges Entrance fees are included in all sights listed in the itinerary Luggage Transfer in three days (1 large suitcase per person permitted) Cultural experiences, including: - Tokyo Sights by Day & Night including karaoke, Izakaya nights out, Sumida River Cruise, urban Japanese garden, Sumo Tournament (May & September dates), etc. - World famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture & Samurai castle of Matsumoto. - Overnight in rural ryokans experiencing unique Japanese hospitality and onsen (hot spring baths) & incredible R&R time! - Kanazawa Tea houses, geisha district, visit to one of the top 3 gardens of Japan, local food market. - Unesco World Heritage Kyoto: glorious sites, traditional back-streets, stunning shrines, manicured gardens, gorgeous geisha, and authentic tea ceremony just some of the highlights! - High speed bullet train journeys throughout. - Scenic mountain drives taking in the magical landscape that makes up c.75% of Japan’s terrain. - Cultural Activities in Gokayama including: Washi Paper Making, Soba noodle making, 400-year-old farmhouse visit, tea with locals, farmers dance. - Takayama morning market and old worldly village feel. - April/October: Takayama Festival (very popular). - Historical ruins in Hiroshima with tales told by local Hiroshima guides. - Magical images of Miyajima Island Itsukushima Shrine (Floating shrine) and giant Torii Gate. - Fuji National Park catching a glimpse of the monster mountain for that must-have photo! Essential Travel Information Pack At Oomi Travel, we aim to make your adventures in Japan run as smoothly as possible. To facilitate this, we will provide a detailed Travel Pack & Travel APP, tailor-made for your specific trip including: Tips, hints and information covering subjects as diverse as transport, food, language and bathing etiquette! Detailed step-by-step itinerary including hotel names (in both English and Japanese – good to have for taxi drivers) and daily suggested itineraries with clear details on how to make this happen! Customised access maps with bi-lingual train times and full instructions for every journey you will be making in Japan. Destination guides giving you up to date information on each place you visit. Local Area Maps, Vouchers, and Emergency contact details. Any other information you have specifically requested from us.

Transport

All transfers / reserved seats on bullet trains and express trains Luggage transfer when using the shinkansen (one bag per person / 3 times) Chartered vehicles & local taxis/minivans/coaches on private city tours Arrival & Departure Airport transfers to & from Tokyo hotel (door-to-door service)

Not included:

Optional

We recommend you add one or two pre-tour nights in Tokyo for a little extra time to explore the capital and adjust to the new time zone. The tour starts at the welcome dinner on Day 1 which is from 5-6pm. Check your flight arrival time to ensure you will make the welcome dinner. Please allow for 3 hours (Haneda) and 4 hours (Narita) after you land to arrive to your hotel.

Flights

International flights are not included. [Arrange your own flights into and out of Tokyo’s Haneda or Narita Airports – Always check the arrival date on your flight e.g. if flying from Europe/US, you will arrive in Tokyo the following day (depending on the airline you use).]

Others

Baggage Handling: Each passenger will be required to carry their own bags at all times. Tour leaders will not be responsible for bags. Some hotels will have porter service but not all. Local Guide or Driver Gratuity – optional - arranged with your group approx. 100USD per person

Insurance

Insurance is not included. All passengers must take out adequate travel insurance.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Welcome To Tokyo - ’Izakaya’ Evening Welcome Dinner
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Welcome To Tokyo - ’Izakaya’ Evening Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Tokyo! Japan’s capital city and beating heart. Get ready to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this bustling metropolis. From cultural monuments, religious shrines, stunning parks, sophisticated shopping, and unforgettable dining, Tokyo has got you covered.

Arrive in one of Tokyo’s International Airports (Haneda or Narita).

Our team will take care of you from the moment you exit the arrivals hall where you will be met by our transfer staff on arrival and be taken directly to your Tokyo hotel.

You will have free time in Tokyo until tour orientation in the evening where you will meet your guide. Meeting time is usually 6pm but will be announced in your travel pack.

Enjoy a welcome dinner at local Izakaya (included).

Accommodation: Daiwa Roynet Nishi-Shinjuku Premier (or similar 3/4*) including casual style Izakaya Dining experience
Day 2 Tour The Eclectic Treasures Of Tokyo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tour The Eclectic Treasures Of Tokyo

Discover Japan, starting with a tour of the megacity, Tokyo. You will be joined by a local guide who will bring you on a sightseeing tour of Tokyo.

Highlights include a walk through the serene Hamarikyu Japanese garden & tea house surrounded by towering skyscrapers; a view like no other. Shop for kitchenware and Japanese knives at the infamous Tsukiji outer market. Break for some of the freshest and finest “sea to table” before crossing the cities highways and rivers to check out the Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist template at Asakusa. After sunset, enjoy some free time to explore the bright lights and unique atmosphere of Tokyo after dark. Soak in electric vibes and merriment in discreet bars & lively Izakaya. Finally restore at a hotel that blends refined class with metropolitan sophistication.

✪ TOKYO CITY SIGHTSEEING ✪ WITH LOCAL GUIDE 09.00 – 17:00

• Tsukiji Outer Wholesale Market

• Hamarikyu Garden

• Sushi Lunch

• Asakusa Kannon Temple & Shopping Street

Evening free time / Your tour leader will give you guidance on where to go after dark!

If traveling on our May or September tour, you will also have the added excitement of watching the Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo’s Ryugoku area, home to the Sumo world of Japan.

Accommodation: Daiwa Roynet Nishi-Shinjuku Premier (or similar 3/4*)
Day 3 Snow Monkey Magic With Authentic Japanese Hospitality
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Snow Monkey Magic With Authentic Japanese Hospitality

✪ Jigokudani Snow Monkeys ✪

Visit the Yudanaka onsen to experience some of the most iconic onsen in Japan. During the colder months, it is possible to visit the infamous local residents; the Japanese snow monkeys. These wild monkeys live in the mountains around Jigokudani and come down to take a dip into the soothing hot springs during the snowy months. After 30-minute (1 mile) forest walk, curious visitors may get up close to the monkeys, and witness their mannerisms and habits up close. During the warmer months, the monkeys bathe less often, choosing to stay in the cool mountain caves with their abundance of fruit. With some luck, it is possible to witness the monkeys take a bath, but this cannot be guaranteed. Luckily, a magical onsen retreat amongst natural beauty will always await in Yudanaka onsen.

✪ Dinner & Hot Springs (onsen) at your ryokan ✪

An overnight stay in a traditional Japanese Ryokan is an inclusion on all our tours. Much more than simply accommodation, the experience includes enjoyed elements such as onsen (volcanic hot spring baths), kaiseki dinner (multi-course artistically presented cuisine) and of course omotenashi (a unique Japanese welcome and hospitality). You sleep on a futon on the tatami (straw mat-flooring). In some cases, you can reserve your own private “onsen” to enjoy with your partner or family members.

Accommodation: Senjukaku Ryokan (or similar) - Japanese Style including traditional Japanese kaiseki dinner
Day 4 Ancient Samurai Castle (Matsumoto) To Takayama, Where Time Stands Still
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Ancient Samurai Castle (Matsumoto) To Takayama, Where Time Stands Still

✪ Matsumoto Castle (stunning original samurai castle) ✪

Immerse yourself in the Japanese Alps with a majestic samurai castle in Matsumoto before stepping back in time in historic Takayama.

Matsumoto is an alpine city surrounded by the towering peaks of the Japan Alps and has an almost European feel to it. The city is most famous for its original castle which is only a short distance from the station. This is one of the only original castles in Japan and really gives you a sense of ancient Japan and how the samurai used to live and fight. The city also boasts several sake breweries, hidden in the backstreets amongst the traditional buildings, a good museum of Ukiyoe woodblock prints, and is the home of soba noodles, the local speciality which is particularly delicious.

After lunch, we will take a scenic bus ride (2.5 hours) through beautiful mountain and river valleys, to Takayama. Check into your hotel / Free time

Accommodation: Takayama Hotel Associa or Wood Hotel (or similar)
Day 5 Bygone Era Takayama
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Bygone Era Takayama

Walk back through history in the footsteps of Shogun & samurai in Takayama, a well preserved Edo era town.

Learn about Japan’s glorious history as you walk through Takayama’s preserved buildings and streets. Start by browsing the morning market and on to Takayama Jinya (Old town hall). April & October tours will experience incredible Takayama festival, which is listed as a protected UNESCO intangible cultural heritage asset, at other times the 16th century festival floats can be viewed at the Takayama Yatai Kaikan (Festival Float Hall).

You will have free time in the afternoon to walk through the streets by yourself, sampling the street food and visiting local artisans’ shops.

During festival (April & October) this itinerary will be subject to our guide’s recommendations. The night-lights and entertainment during festival season brings great excitement to the tour. This is a very special festival to be a part of. One we highly recommend!

Accommodation: Takayama Hotel Associa or Wood Hotel (or similar)
Day 6 Gokayama : Cultural Workshop At Unesco World Heritage Site
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Gokayama : Cultural Workshop At Unesco World Heritage Site

From Takayama, visit the preserved traditions at 400 year old thatched roof houses in Gokayama and meet farmers who still live in these rare and rustic homes. Meet locals to make noodles and washi paper, then see Toyama dance performed in rustic farmhouses with 400 year Gassho Zukkuri.

Journey through river valleys through mountains to stop off at the UNESCO protected 400 year old thatched roof farmhouses called Gassho Zukkuri. Participate in several cultural activities such as creating washi paper, making soba noodles followed by lunch at a Soba noodle restaurant. Enjoy a hot cup of roasted tea by the original open fire & meet the local farmers. Transfer from Gokayama to Kanazawa to a downtown hotel to enjoy some free time in the evening. Consider a visit to Kanazawa museum of modern art, or sample fresh sushi in this coastal city.

What to Expect:

Washi paper making workshop (approx. 1-hour)

Soba noodle making followed by lunch where you will be sampling your own creation (subject to tour numbers) - if we have less than 6 people on the tour, you will not be able to make Soba. Instead we will introduce you to a really great Soba place for lunch!

Wander through the 400 year-old gassho-zukkuri farmhouse villages of Suganuma

Tonights rest will be in Kanazawa, also known as ’Little Kyoto’.

Kanazawa is a lovely small city close to the Japan sea coast. Until the turn of the century it was the 4th biggest city in Japan. However its wealth was built on rice production and traditional crafts such as weaving and gold leaf and with the full scale industrialisation of the country Kanazawa was somewhat left behind. Today the city is flourishing again and still maintains a lot of its old charms. There are several small geisha districts and one where you can go inside an old tea house and see where the clients were entertained and even take tea yourself (sadly no longer served by geisha!). There are also samurai house and the city’s most famous sight, the beautiful Kenrokuen garden rated as one of the three best stroll gardens in the whole of Japan.

Accommodation: Kanazawa ANA Crowne Plaza or Kanazawa Square Hotel (or similar)
Day 7 Kanazawa: Unearth The Secrets Of Japanese Gardens
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kanazawa: Unearth The Secrets Of Japanese Gardens

Take a guided tour around one of Japan’s top gardens, Kenrokuen in Kanazawa, also affectionately called “little Kyoto”. Then jump from old world Japan onto a modern express train west to Japan’s actual centre of cultural treasures the monumental Kyoto.

Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of the top three traditional gardens in Japan. Kanazawa is affectionately called little Kyoto and you will know why after visiting the Higashi Chaya district (Geisha district). Participate in an authentic tea ceremony near Kenrokuen Garden. You will transfer from the impressive Kanazawa train station by express train to the even more impressive Kyoto station. Arrive in the ancient capital and heart of Japanese culture Kyoto. You’ll be excited to check into your hotel quickly to get back out and begin exploring. The historic streets and surrounding hill sides will take your breath away at every corner and with every impressive view.

✪ KANAZAWA Morning Tour ✪ WITH LOCAL GUIDE 09.00 – 13:00

Visit:

- Kenrokuen Garden (considered one of the top 3 gardens in Japan)

- Higashi Chaya District (Geisha District)

- Omicho Market

- ♥Authentic Tea Ceremony

Transfer to Kyoto by express train in the afternoon. Arrive to Kyoto early evening. Free time in Kyoto.

Accommodation: Okura Kyoto (or similar 4/5*)
Day 8 Kyoto Cultural Trail
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kyoto Cultural Trail

Expert local guides take pride in showcasing the finest temples, gardens, shrines and intricacies that make Kyoto so unique.Visit one of Japan’s most famous temples, Kinkakuji, also known as the ‘Golden Pavilion’. Set amongst zen gardens and a reflecting pool, the temple’s main hall is covered in gold leaf and breathtaking in every season for postcard perfect photos. Arashiyama provides forest bathing (shinrin yoku) as you stroll on relaxing paths through the bamboo forest. Geisha offer their delightful company over some tea after lunch in the Gion district. In the evening explore the narrow streets of Pontocho to find Izakaya serving great food and finest quality sake in a fun atmosphere.

✪ KYOTO City Sightseeing ✪ WITH LOCAL GUIDE 09.00 – 17:00

Visit:

• Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

• Lunch at local restaurant

• Nijo Castle

• Highlight: Afternoon Tea with Geisha (Maiko)

You will have the rare chance to sit and have tea with one of Kyoto’s beautiful young Maiko in their mama-san’s teahouse. ’Maiko’ are better known as a young ’Geisha’. Training to become Geisha usually starts at a young age (some start at 13/14). Trained in various Japanese traditional arts such as Kimono wearing, flower arranging, traditional dance, shamisen (string instrument), and so on, they spend many years perfecting how to walk, talk, and breath like a Geisha. If successful in their progression, they then move to be a Geisha, usually by the age of twenty or so. Such an interesting experience that you will only find in Kyoto. This experience is not sold on the high street. This really is a special occasion on our tour that we have been proud to offer for many years. So be sure to bring your camera and be prepared to ask questions. Our Maiko are very open and love sharing and listening to your stories too.

Accommodation: Okura Kyoto (or similar 4/5*
Day 9 Explore Kyoto, Or Diverse Kansai
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Explore Kyoto, Or Diverse Kansai

Today will be a well deserved day off to spend as you choose in Kyoto. Suggested itinerary and access maps will be provided for you in your travel pack. If you are very tired you can take it easy today! Many of our clients have specific places in mind that they would like to see in Kyoto. So, why not let us know in advance, and we can be prepared to give you the correct information on how to get to the places you would like.

OPTIONAL TOURS

1. Ancient Nara & Modern Osaka (Self-Guided / No booking needed)

2. Walking Tour of Spiritual Temples in Koyasan* [Option to do as a self-guided tour. Your tour leader will give you details]

3. Kyoto Cultural Experiences* e.g. Kimono Wearing, Ikebana Workshop, Cookery Class, etc.

*Pre-Booking Essential before departure

Accommodation: Okura Kyoto (or similar 4/5*)
Day 10 Hiroshima Peace Park & Miyajima Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hiroshima Peace Park & Miyajima Island

This morning you start a little earlier, at 7.30am, in order to catch the most suitable shinkansen train to our next stop, Hiroshima! Just a swift two-hour journey on the speedy shinkansen (high speed bullet train), once you find your seat, we promise you can sleep again. These trains offer first class comforts unlike any train you may have been on in the western world.

In Hiroshima, follow your guide and listen to the story of how this humble city has rebuilt itself after the devastating A-Bomb blast of WWII. Emotions and perspectives may well move here, but we guarantee you will listen with pure interest and curiosity. Or you’re of course free to take the morning to yourself in this friendly and lively city.

We will continue on to Miyajima Island after lunch, another UNESCO World Heritage spot! Here, we will visit the impressive Itsukushima Shrine that seems to float so peacefully on the water along with the giant Torii Gates. Free time for shopping is included here, with overnight stay in a traditional ryokan with kaiseki dinner & onsen (hot springs) another treat for the day!

Hiroshima is a city that needs little introduction. It is of course infamous for being the site of one of two atomic bombs dropped on Japan at the end of the Second World War. Despite it’s tragic past, Hiroshima is now a bustling and vibrant city which has risen phoenix-like from the ashes. The Peace Park and Museum are a poignant reminder of the reason for Hiroshima’s fame and everyone should spend an afternoon in this part of town. The local food is okonomiyaki, a kind of Japanese savoury pancake. You choose the ingredients and then cook the pancake yourself at your table.

Miyajima Island located just off the coast of Hiroshima, is one of Japan’s most loved places with a charming rural atmosphere to match the beautiful surroundings. The island is perhaps best known for the red torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine which appears to be floating in the sea. There are many pleasant walks on Miyajima among the temples and along the bustling shopping street in the island’s small village. You may also see some of the island’s native fauna; the sacred deer are easy to spot as they roam freely, but you’ll have to work a little harder to spot any of the resident monkey population; keep your eyes peeled! Miyajima is a wonderful place to slow down, unwind and relax, so take your time and let the magic of this island enchant you!

Accommodation: Hiroshima Granvia or Hiroshima Hilton (or similar 4/5*)
Day 11 Journey Northeast To Hakone
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Journey Northeast To Hakone

After a peaceful night spent on the island of Miyajima, you will make your way back towards Tokyo. But before hitting the high streets of the capital, you will spend one more night in another rural retreat in the heart of the Fuji National Park. After a long but comfortable journey along the Tokaido shinkansen line, you will arrive to Hakone before dinner time. Enjoy your final traditional Japanese dinner at your ryokan and full use of the hot spring baths.

Accommodation: Setsugetsuka Ryokan or similar) including kaiseki dinner
Day 12 Lakeside Cruise, Hakone Open Air Museum, And Back To Tokyo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Lakeside Cruise, Hakone Open Air Museum, And Back To Tokyo

After breakfast, explore Hakone with your local guide. You will take a cruise on Lake Ashi followed by a ride across the mountains on a scenic cable car which will, weather permitting, afford us a perfect view of the majestic giant, Mt Fuji. Enjoy The Hakone Open-Air Museum, Japan’s first outdoor, open-air museum of art. Located in a lushly green 70,000 square meters garden with a view of the Hakone mountains, the museum has on permanent display some 120 masterpieces by famous modern and contemporary sculptors. Visit the museum’s five indoor exhibitions, including the Picasso Pavilion with its rotational displays from more than 300 Picasso pieces in this world-class collection, as well as the natural hot spring bath and the art in the outdoor plazas.

After this you will head back to the capital Tokyo where you will have a free evening, with plenty of options on your doorstep.

Accommodation: Park Hotel Tokyo (or similar 4*)
Day 13 A City Of Infinite Possibilities With Sumo Tournaments (May And September Only)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

A City Of Infinite Possibilities With Sumo Tournaments (May And September Only)

Your final full day in Tokyo can be spent in many ways; revisitng some of the sights, exploring new places, some last minute shopping or a day trip to Kamakura or Yokohama, etc. Your local assistant will be more than happy to oblige in helping you make your plan.

No matter what you do for the day, a farewell dinner will be arranged with the option to continue the night out at a local karaoke bar & Japan-style pub! (Pay locally)

May & September tours will include tickets to see a live Sumo Tournament!!

Accommodation: Park Hotel Tokyo (or similar 4*)
Day 14 Tour Ends (Additional Tour Extensions Available)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tour Ends (Additional Tour Extensions Available)

Japan Discovered comes to an end after breakfast today. You will be provided with an airport transfer service from your hotel. If you would like to stay longer in Tokyo, discuss some post-tour options with your travel consultant. Don’t forget to send us your flight details as soon as you know them. Transfers need to be booked early!

+11

14 days tour

Japan Discovered (No. 1 Best Selling Tour)

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Japan Discovered (No. 1 Best Selling Tour)

Welcome To Tokyo - ’Izakaya’ Evening Welcome Dinner

Tour The Eclectic Treasures Of Tokyo

Snow Monkey Magic With Authentic Japanese Hospitality

Ancient Samurai Castle (Matsumoto) To Takayama, Where Time Stands Still

Bygone Era Takayama

Gokayama : Cultural Workshop At Unesco World Heritage Site

Kanazawa: Unearth The Secrets Of Japanese Gardens

Kyoto Cultural Trail

Explore Kyoto, Or Diverse Kansai

Hiroshima Peace Park & Miyajima Island

Journey Northeast To Hakone

Lakeside Cruise, Hakone Open Air Museum, And Back To Tokyo

A City Of Infinite Possibilities With Sumo Tournaments (May And September Only)

Tour Ends (Additional Tour Extensions Available)

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