A Japan Trip to Remember
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Inspirational, innovative and intriguing, Japan has always been a favourite Tauck destination, where gilded temples and glittering skyscrapers reign over streets steeped in history and tradition. Discover the revered customs and unique sense of beauty that infuse life here. On the main island of Honshu, from Tokyo to the hot springs resort town of Hakone and on through the “Japanese Alps" to Kanazawa and the cultural treasure trove of Kyoto, visit a private home, shoes off, for a tea ceremony and Origami. Explore castles, temples, shrines, a samurai home, and world-class gardens and spend a night at a ryokan with traditional Japanese cultural experiences. Make sushi, taste sake, cruise Lake Ashi to see Mt. Fuji. Enjoy a taiko performance, Shinto music, Kagura dancing, a sumo wrestling demonstration and meet a geisha expert. Join Tauck for a Japan trip to remember.
Highlights
- Multiple-night stays in premier hotels in Tokyo, Kyoto, Kanazawa & at a hot springs resort & spa in Hakone
- Small group departures stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto nights 8 – 11
- Overnight stay in a traditional ryokan in Matsumoto
- Tokyo’s Edo-Tokyo Museum, Kagura dancing, taiko drums & sumo wrestling
- In Kyoto, a private home visit with tea ceremony, explorations with a local Geisha expert, visits to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji Temple & Pure Water Temple (Kiyomizu Temple)
- A cruise on Lake Ashi beneath Mt. Fuji
- In Hakone, visit an open-air museum & a whisky distillery, and attend a flower arranging class
- A lesson on sake brewing & a tasting at a local brewery in Takayama
- A guided tour of Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most revered landscaped gardens, and the Samurai legacy in Kanazawa
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
- 30 meals (12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 8 dinners); gratuities to local guides, service charges, admission fees, taxes and porterage
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1Arrive Tokyo
Tauck’s Japan trip begins at 6:30 PM at the Park Hyatt Tokyo. A transfer is included from Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport to the five-star Park Hyatt Tokyo, occupying the top 14 floors of a 52-story tower in the heart of Shinjuku, the city’s vibrant business and entertainment district. This evening, please join us for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel.
Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodation: Park Hyatt Tokyo
Day 2
Tokyo, yesterday & today
A drive through Tokyo this morning gives you an overview of one of the world’s most dynamic capital cities, touching on both history and modern life. Begin today’s sightseeing in Japan’s capital city with a visit to the Meiji Shrine – honoring the deified spirits of Japan’s Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, who died in 1912 and 1914, respectively – and take in a live performance of traditional Shinto music and Kagura dancing. Visit central Tokyo’s renowned Tsukiji Market, the largest fish and seafood market in the world, for a walk around the outer market before heading to a local restaurant for a traditional yakitori (skewered chicken) lunch. This afternoon, explore the Edo-Tokyo Museum, whose exhibits focus on Tokyo’s history, culture, and development from its roots as a fishing village called Edo. The rest of the day and evening are free for further exploring on your own. Many good restaurants can be found in the vicinity of your hotel, and your Tauck Director can make suggestions for places to try.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Park Hyatt Tokyo
Day 3
The bullet train, a lake cruise & a culinary experience
This morning, board the renowned bullet train (shinkansen) in Tokyo for a short ride south to Odawara, and continue on to the scenic hot springs resort town of Hakone in Kanagawa. En route, enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi; weather permitting, see views of Mt. Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, looming over the landscape. Have lunch at a local restaurant on the shores of Lake Ashi, then continue on to your ideally located spa resort in Hakone . This afternoon, get your hands around an authentic Japanese culinary tradition during a private sushi and miso making demonstration; later, gather for a “homey” dinner at your resort.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa
Day 4
Sculpture, whisky & flowers or relaxation in Hakone
Start the day off with an excursion to the Hakone Open Air Museum, the first open-air museum in Japan, renowned for its outdoor sculpture park with beautiful views of the mountain. The grounds are the permanent home of approximately 120 works by well-known international sculptors including Rodin, Bourdelle, Miro, and Moore. Then you’ll have a choice between staying at your resort to indulge in some pampering at the hotel’s spa – perhaps taking a dip in the healing hot springs (onsen) – or heading off to visit the Kirin Fuji Gotemba Distillery, for a tour and tasting at one of the largest whisky-making facilities in Japan. After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll have an opportunity to learn the art of ikebana – Japanese flower arranging – from a teacher who gives a class and demonstration of this time-honored tradition. Dine on French or Japanese cuisine at one of your resort’s restaurants this evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa
Day 5
Kubota art, Matsumoto & the Japanese Alps
Today’s exploration begins at the Itchiku Kubota Museum, set amidst magnificent views of majestic Mt. Fuji and serene Lake Kawaguchi. Itchiku Kubota (1917-2003) is considered one of the most important Japanese textile artists of the 20th century; he rediscovered, revived and subsequently modernized a traditional Japanese kimono dyeing technique, which was lost since the 15th century, creating exceptional artistic kimonos. The museum you’ll visit today celebrates his art and legacy. Continue north through the forested mountain landscapes of the “Japanese Alps,” through winding valleys dotted with rice farms, lakes, rushing rivers, and small villages to the hot springs town of Matsumoto, where, after lunch, you’ll see 400-hundred-year-old Matsumoto Castle, Japan’s oldest castle and a national treasure, also known as the “Crow Castle” because of its black exterior. Arrive this afternoon at your onsen (hot springs) hotel, combining the authenticity of a traditional Japanese ryokan with the comforts of a contemporary hotel, including western-style and Japanese rooms. Your Tauck Exclusive dinner tonight is Japanese kaiseki style, yukatas and slippers on, in a private room with musical entertainment.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tobira Onsen Myojinkan
Day 6
Old Takayama and a Sake brewery
Depart Matsumoto this morning and head for Takayama, a mountain city long famed for its artisans and woodworkers. Do some sightseeing along the narrow lanes of its historic center, and have lunch at a local restaurant known for its Hida beef. Following a lesson in sake making and a tasting at a local brewery in Takayama, continue on to Kanazawa, just inland from the Sea of Japan. Arriving here marks your having crossed all the way from one side of Japan’s main island of Honshu to the other. Enjoy an included dinner at your choice of your hotel’s restaurants either tonight or tomorrow.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
Day 7
Gardens, the Samurai legacy & more in Kanazawa
A full day’s sightseeing in Kanazawa includes: a guided stroll through celebrated Kenroku-en Gardens, considered among the country’s top three landscaped gardens; time exploring the historic Samurai District, where samurai homes are tucked among narrow lanes and canals behind earthen walls and private entrance gates, with a visit to the restored Nomura Samurai Family Residence for a look at the lifestyle of the samurai during feudal times, when they were prosperous; lunch at a Paul Bocuse restaurant; and an afternoon visit to Higashi Chaya, Kanazawa’s geisha district. Cap the day with a Tauck Exclusive, private Samurai show at a local temple, then spend the rest of the evening as you please at your hotel or exploring on your own in Kanazawa.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
Day 8
A train ride to beautiful Kyoto
Depart Kanazawa by train for Kyoto, arriving midday for a four-night stay at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto; small group departures will stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto. Have lunch and begin your exploration of the city considered one of Japan’s most beautiful. On your introductory sightseeing tour, discover a city center of glass and steel skyscrapers ringed by hidden temples, shrines, and gardens that exude the tranquility and charm of Japan’s ancient culture. You may choose to dine at our selected local restaurant either tonight or tomorrow.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto or The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (Small Group Departures)
Day 9
A castle, a temple & a Kyoto geisha district
Kyoto sightseeing today begins with a visit to the famous golden-topped Kinkaku-ji Temple (Temple of the Golden Pavilion), set in an ancient garden on the edge of a lake – a position symbolizing its place “between heaven and Earth.” Hear the story of how this 14th-century temple was burned to the ground by a young monk and then completely reconstructed. Continue on to Nijo Castle, surrounded by stone walls and a moat; tour this 17th-century shogun’s residence and UNESCO World Heritage Site – and discover the secret of its “nightingale” floors. After lunch at a local restaurant, meet up with a geisha expert who leads an exploration of the back streets of one of Kyoto’s geisha districts, and shares insights on the “flower and willow” world of the geishas, past and present.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto or The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (Small Group Departures)
Day 10
A private home visit in Kyoto
Begin your day with a prayer at the Kiyomizudera (Pure Water Temple) established in 778; the current buildings were rebuilt in the 17th century. Drink the water here in long-handled cups as you wish for longevity, success or love. Kyoto is known as the craft capital of Japan, and many traditional arts have been passed down through the generations. Experience the revered customs of Japanese culture firsthand during a visit to a private home here; take your shoes off, come in, and your gracious hostess will demonstrate the very specific rituals of a Japanese tea ceremony, followed by a lesson in the paper art of Origami. Return to your hotel where the afternoon is free for you to enjoy Kyoto’s charms as you like. Join us for a special dinner tonight at a local restaurant.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto or The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (Small Group Departures)
Day 11
By bullet train to Hiroshima & back to Kyoto
From Kyoto, travel aboard a morning bullet train to Hiroshima for lunch followed by a sightseeing tour including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, the A-Bomb Dome and other sites associated with the WWII atomic bomb blast that destroyed the city in August 1945. Return this afternoon by bullet train to Kyoto, where your evening is free to spend as you wish.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto or The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (Small Group Departures)
Day 12
More traditions in Tokyo
Travel by rail from Kyoto back to Tokyo, arriving for lunch at the celebrated restaurant Nobu. After lunch, enjoy a Tauck Exclusive – an exhilarating taiko drumming performance, including a hands-on instruction session and demonstration; try your hand at this time-honored tradition where rhythm, melody, and movement combine to create an extraordinary musical experience. As your Japan trip draws to a close, return to your hotel before heading to yet another Tauck Exclusive: tonight’s farewell reception and dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll witness a larger-than-life demonstration by sumo wrestlers.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Park Hyatt Tokyo
Day 13
Journey home
Tauck’s comprehensive Japan journey ends at Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport. Fly home anytime. An airport transfer is included from the Park Hyatt Tokyo to Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport. Please allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in at the airport.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departures & Rates
Small Group Departures – Select small group departures, averaging 24 Tauck guests, are priced from AUD $17,490 per person double; specific dates apply.
Note: Small Group Departures will stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto on nights 8 – 11.
Ask one of our Travel Specialists about Packaging Flights with your Tour and Save
*Rates are person based on twin share. Single Supplements apply. For more information and other conditions please confirm with our Travel Specialists at time of booking.
*Rates are subject to availability and seasonality and may change without notice. Rates are based on two adults sharing. For solo travellers or single person occupancy rates or further information on terms and conditions, please contact our Travel Specialists at time of booking.
Accommodation
Nights 1-2 & 12
Park Hyatt Tokyo
An elegant oasis of space and calm in the heart of the Shinjuku district, 
Park Hyatt Tokyo is the ideal luxury destination in Tokyo where guests can enjoy a 360-degree view of the bustling city and Mount Fuji. Occupying the top 14 floors of a 52-story tower, the hotel offers guests an unparalleled level of comfort and personalised service as well as top class gourmet dining options at the heart of this vibrant city. Designed as a private urban residence by the late Pritzker Prize-winning architect Dr. Kenzo Tange and interior designer John Morford, Park Hyatt Tokyo is distinguished in its modern interior design, private art collection and acclaimed restaurants, spa and fitness center. Guest rooms are spacious and serene, each offering walk-in closets and high-tech amenities, and all are appointed with original artwork, exquisite woods and fabrics and books for reference and pleasure. Dining options are plentiful at Park Hyatt Tokyo. Guests can either enjoy a 360-degree view of the city from the iconic New York Grill & Bar on the 52nd floor, or savor world-class, authentic Japanese cuisine overlooking Mt. Fuji at Kozue. The hotel also features Girandole, a French Brasserie, and The Peak Lounge & Bar on the 41st floor atrium where guests can go for a relaxing afternoon tea, a glass of Champagne or original cocktails. On the ground level, you’ll find Delicatessen and Pastry Boutique, offering a wide range of homemade items.
Nights 3 – 4
Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa
Located in the midst of the resort region of Hakone, an area noted for its natural
hot springs, the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa extends a warm welcome to travellers seeking a natural experience in the green foothills of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Generously sized guest rooms, highlighted by contemporary design, offer balconies or sun rooms, 32-inch TV with cable / satellite channels and DVD player, marble bath, coffee maker, hairdryer, safe and Japanese cotton robes. The Spa Izumi and Onsen Halone feature separate soothing hot springs baths for men and women. The Dining Room, a provincial restaurant with an open kitchen and relaxing views, features authentic French and Japanese cuisine. The Living Room, with its delightful outdoor terrace, serves a wide selection of coffees and teas, snacks and light meals during the day and cocktails in the evening.
Night 5
Tobira Onsen Myojinkan – Matsumoto, Japan
Tobira Onsen Myojinkan sits 1,050 meters above sea level, nestled in 
Matsumoto in Japan’s Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by the beautiful natural environment of Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen Quasi-National Park. Established in 1931, Myojinkan has a rich history of welcoming visitors from all over the world to enjoy bubbling hot springs amidst a tranquil and remote natural environment. The onsen’s relaxed, modern Japanese interiors integrate effortlessly with the traditional Japanese furnishings to create an ambience of total relaxation in both Japanese-styled and western-styled guest rooms. Tobira Onsen Myojinkan combines the elements of a traditional Japanese inn with all the creature comforts of a luxury hotel. At Tobira Onsen Myojinkan, experience true Japanese hospitality amdist the unique beauty of the four seasons – the serenity of murmuring brooks, tranquil birdsong, conifers swaying gently in the breeze, and snow covered vistas – and feel life’s stress and tension simply melt away.
Night 6 – 7
Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
The luxury accommodations of Hotel Nikko Kanazawa combine an elegant European
atmosphere with the beauty of the four seasons, conveniently located in front of JR Kanazawa Station and within walking distance of some of the most famous tourist spots in Kanazawa, Japan. At 130m, it is the tallest hotel in the Hokuriku area. Comfortable, well-designed guest rooms offer air conditioning, satellite / cable TV , radio, coffee / tea making facilities, minibar, telephone, hairdryer, bed slippers, and luxury bath amenities. Dining options at the hotel include European cuisine at La Plage, Chinese cuisine at Toh-Lee, traditional Japanese at Benkay, Teppan grill at Icho, and several bars and lounges.
Nights 8 – 11
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto or The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (small group departures)
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Experience personalised, insider access to Kyoto’s four-season delights within 
light-filled and spacious guest rooms at Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto. Double-height windows frame the hotel’s tranquil garden as you enjoy modern European brasserie dining. Sip local craft beers on the waterside terrace; melt into bliss in the spa; or celebrate new beginnings in this fascinating city of contrasts. The hotel’s amenities include an 800-year-old ikeniwa (pond garden), the poetic heart of the property, crossed by a glass bridge; two restaurants, a bar, lounge and tea house; indoor pool and whirlpool; a full-service spa with seven treatment rooms; and a 24-hour fitness center.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (small group departures)
Located in the heart of a city famed for its Zen temples, palaces and gardens, the downtown luxury resort brings the unsurpassed elegance and renowned service of The Ritz-Carlton to Kyoto, while honoring the cultural heritage of the city through design; the hotel enjoys breathtaking views of the Kamogawa river and the Higashiyama mountains. The resort’s design concept is based on five key words and feelings: Utage (Festive), Seido (serenity and movement), Miyabi (elegance), Hana (splendid) and Nagomi (harmony). The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto makes use of a design that is in harmony with the historical neighborhood’s environment, while achieving a fusion of traditional and contemporary Japanese style sought to retain the character and aesthetic of a traditional Meiji house and courtyard into the architectural structure of the building to reflect the ancient culture of the city. Dine at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto and explore the very best of both Japanese and Western cuisine, from exquisite multi-course kaiseki dinners to tempting French patisserie. Experience the pinnacle of Japan’s gastronomic art at Mizuki, serving four classic styles of Japanese cooking. At La Locanda, you can enjoy fine Italian cooking with a contemporary twist in a historic, century-old dining room. After your meal, relax with a cocktail at The Bar, featuring a 360º cellar with more than 400 wine selections. Serving tea and sweet treats by the French patisserie Pierre Hermé Paris, The Lobby Lounge is a delightful place for a light snack at any time of day. The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a space for relaxation with a healing atmosphere, amid the comforting sounds of a flowing waterfall. Luxurious treatments incorporate spa products from ESPA, made from the highest quality botanical essences and marine actives. The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers seven treatments rooms including one spa suite, as well as a relaxation room, steam room, dry sauna and a 20-meter swimming pool. Interiors created by Peter Remedios Design Studio pay homage to the traditions of Japan, with patterned motifs created by local artisans and the incorporation of Zen gardens and water features, including a three-story waterfall positioned in the heart of the property. Mizuki, La Locanda and The Bar were designed by Design Studio SPIN infusing exceptional craftsmanship with traditional Japanese influences into modern spaces. The theme of the property’s extensive art collection is “The Tale of Genji,” the classic novel written by Murasaki Shikibu in the 11th century. In the public areas, the design attempts to recreate the atmosphere of the residence of Genji Hikaru, the protagonist of the story. 80 artists, mainly Kyoto’s local artists, have created a total of 409 works interpreting the delicate, graceful sentiment of Genji’s time for the contemporary world.
