Japan's Timeless Splendours
Japan - 13 Days
Small Group Journeys
Journey Details and Highlights
Japan’s Timeless Splendours
Day 1: Tokyo Arrival
Arrive in Tokyo at Narita or Haneda Airport and be greeted at the arrival gate by your assistant guide. Board a comfortable airport limousine bus for a convenient transfer into the city. Upon arrival at the designated bus stop, it’s just a short walk of less than 10 minutes to your hotel, where you can check in and begin settling into the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo.
Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)Day 2: Tokyo (B)
Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a brief orientation, then set out for Asakusa to visit Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, and browse the traditional snack and souvenir stalls along Nakamise Street. Drift past riverside landmarks on a scenic Sumida River cruise before wandering Hamarikyu Garden, a former feudal retreat famed for its tidal ponds, teahouse, and landscaped pines. Break for lunch (own expense) at Tsukiji Outer Market or a nearby restaurant to sample fresh sushi and street bites. In the afternoon, feel the city’s pulse at Shibuya Crossing, the world famous “scramble” where thousands stream across in every direction.
Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)Day 3: Tokyo to Kanazawa (B)
Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and send your main luggage ahead to your Kyoto hotel, carrying a small 2-night bag for Kanazawa. Board the bullet train to Kanazawa and, on arrival, dive into Omicho Market—Kanazawa’s lively food hub—where stalls brim with just caught seafood, seasonal produce, and local specialties like kaisendon, grilled crab, and sweet gold leaf treats (lunch at your own pace). In the afternoon, visit the D. T. Suzuki Museum, a serene, minimalist space dedicated to the philosopher who introduced Zen to the West; pause at the Water Mirror Garden and Contemplation Space to experience its meditative design. Later, transfer to your hotel for check in and an evening at leisure.
Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)Day 4: Kanazawa (B)
Stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s finest landscape gardens, with meandering paths, reflective ponds, stone lanterns, and teahouses framed by seasonal blossoms and views toward Kanazawa Castle Park. Continue into the atmospheric Higashi Chaya gai Geisha District to tour the Shima teahouse, a beautifully preserved ochaya showcasing tatami rooms, antique instruments, and elegant tea utensils. Enjoy free time to wander the wooden lanes, browse craft boutiques, and sample Kanazawa treats—perhaps gold leaf soft serve or fresh seafood bowls for lunch (own expense). Round out the day at the Samurai Residence of Kurando Terashima, an intimate Edo period home noted for its serene inner garden and refined interiors that reveal the lifestyle of a mid rank samurai.
Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)Day 5: Kanazawa to Kyōto (B)
Meet your guide and board the bullet train from Kanazawa to Tsuruga, then connect to the Limited Express train to Kyoto. On arrival at Kyoto Station, drop your bags at the hotel if needed and set out for Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its endless tunnels of vermilion torii gates and atmospheric forested trails. Wander the lively sando approach lined with food stalls and shops, with free time to sample local bites and browse at your own pace. Return to central Kyoto to check in and unwind, ready for an evening at leisure amid the city’s lantern-lit lanes and timeless temples.
Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)Day 6: Kyōto (B)
Begin at Kiyomizu dera Temple, famed for its soaring wooden stage, hillside vistas over Kyoto, and the Otowa Waterfall for auspicious sips. Continue into the preserved lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, where traditional townhouses, craft shops, and teahouses make a perfect setting for a leisurely lunch and browsing. In the afternoon, wander the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest along towering groves that sway above quiet pathways. Return to central Kyoto for an atmospheric stroll through the Gion district’s narrow lanes and wooden machiya, ending at Kenninji—Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple—renowned for serene gardens, treasured artworks, and the dramatic twin dragon ceiling.
Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)Day 7: Kyōto to Fukuoka (B)
Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and walk to Kyoto Station, sending your main luggage ahead to Beppu and carrying a 2-night bag for your stay in Fukuoka and Kumamoto. Board the Nozomi bullet train to Hakata and arrive around midday, with time to explore Hakata Station’s many eateries for lunch at your own pace. In the afternoon, step into the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum to discover Meiji–Taishō era town life, traditional crafts, and seasonal festival displays. Continue to nearby Kushida Shrine—Fukuoka’s beloved guardian shrine—known for its grand Hakata Gion Yamakasa floats, ornate carvings, and tranquil precincts tucked amid the city’s bustle.
Overnight in Hotel Monte Hermana Fukuoka (or similar)Day 8: Fukuoka to Kumamoto (B)
Ride the Shinkansen to Kumamoto and meet your driver for a scenic journey into Aso Kuju National Park. Take in sweeping views from Mt. Aso’s viewpoint, overlooking one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas and the vast grasslands that ring the active peaks—an unforgettable window into Kyushu’s dramatic geology. After time to soak up the panorama and capture photos, return to Kumamoto to explore Kumamoto Castle, a formidable hilltop fortress famed for its elegant black and white towers, massive stone ramparts, and beautifully restored interiors that trace samurai history. Conclude the day back at your hotel, with the evening free to relax or sample local specialties.
Overnight in ONE STATION HOTEL KUMAMOTO (or similar)Day 9: Kumamoto to Beppu (B)
Begin with a scenic visit to Takachiho Gorge, where sheer basalt cliffs and the cascading Manai-no-taki waterfall frame emerald waters; enjoy free time to stroll the riverside path, rent a rowboat if you wish, and grab lunch at a local café (own expense). Continue to Amano Iwato Shrine, linked to the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu, and, time permitting, walk to the atmospheric Amano Yasukawara Cave, marked by a stone torii and thousands of stacked wishing stones. In the late afternoon, transfer to Beppu and check in for the evening.
Overnight in REX HOTEL BEPPU (or similar)Day 10: Beppu (B/ L)
Ride the Mt. Tsurumi Ropeway to panoramic observatory views over Beppu and the surrounding mountains. Continue with an onsen steam cooking class, preparing local specialties with natural geothermal steam and enjoying your creations for lunch. Afterward, delve into Beppu’s hot spring culture at the Jigoku Onsen Museum, then visit Umijigoku, the striking “Sea Hell,” famed for its cobalt blue boiling pond and landscaped gardens. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon to unwind in the onsen, and cap the day with dinner at a nearby restaurant of your choice (own expense).
Overnight in REX HOTEL BEPPU (or similar)Day 11: Beppu to Osaka (B)
Your main luggage will be transferred directly to your hotel in Osaka, arriving the following day for your convenience. Enjoy a full day at your own pace, with no guide, and take advantage of Beppu’s famous onsen variety—from soothing sand and mud baths to steamy public or private hot springs. For something different, try hands-on activities at Space Beppu, or venture out on a scenic day trip to the charming town of Yufuin. Later in the afternoon, meet your guide for a local bus transfer to the port, then board the ferry for a relaxing evening cruise. While dinner isn’t included, you can savor a meal onboard the ferry’s restaurant as you enjoy the tranquil journey ahead.
Overnight in Ferry Sunflower (or similar)Day 12: Osaka (D)
Start your day with breakfast available on the ferry (own expense) before arriving at Osaka Port early morning. After checking in and dropping your luggage at the hotel, enjoy some free time to relax at a local café or unwind in the hotel lobby. Later, visit the iconic Osaka Castle and its beautiful surrounding gardens, followed by a trip to the Umeda Sky Building Observatory for stunning city views. Return to the hotel in the afternoon to relax before heading out for an evening stroll through the vibrant Dotonbori district. The day concludes with a memorable farewell dinner at a lively Dotonbori Izakaya, where you’ll experience authentic local flavors and atmosphere.
Overnight in Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba (or similar)Day 13: Osaka Departure (B)
On your final day in Osaka, enjoy a leisurely morning to soak in the city’s atmosphere before checking out of your hotel. Take your time to make your way to the station and continue onward to the airport for your departure. As your incredible journey comes to a close, carry with you lasting memories of Japan’s vibrant urban energy, serene temples, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless traditions. Thank you for traveling with us—may these experiences inspire and stay with you long after you return home.
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Insider Experiences
- Walk the iconic Shibuya Crossing - Feel the pulse of Tokyo as you cross with thousands at the world’s most famous pedestrian scramble.
- Wander Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Forest - Stroll beneath towering bamboo groves swaying above serene paths, a truly ethereal sensory escape.
- Admire Osaka Castle’s grandeur - Explore its historic towers, stone walls, and peaceful gardens for a glimpse into Japan’s feudal legacy.
- Reflect at the D.T. Suzuki Museum - Discover Zen philosophy in this minimalist, contemplative space - a hidden gem in Kanazawa’s cultural scene.
- Steam-cook your lunch in Beppu - Learn local techniques using natural geothermal steam and savor your handmade dishes straight from the onsen kitchens.
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Transport
High-Speed Trains as specified in Itinerary
Arrival Airport Limousine Bus
Public Transport fare as specified -
Touring
English speaking tour guide
Entrance fees for locations specified
Luggage Courier Service as specified
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Accommodation
11 nights in 4 star hotels
Overnight on Ferry as specified
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Meals
Daily breakfast
1 local lunch
1 local dinner
