Traditions of Japan

(12 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Tokyo, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hakone

This tour combines Japan's most popular destinations— Tokyo, Kyoto and Hakone—with two lesser known towns— Takayama and Kanazawa—that showcase Japan's renowned crafts and traditional architecture. First, tour Tokyo's major sights such as Meiji Jingu Shrine and Sensoji Temple, and shopping areas such as Ginza, Harajuku and Aoyama. Then, travel inland by train to Takayama, a tradition-steeped hamlet in the shadow of the Japan Alps. Visit the morning market, traditional merchant houses, specialty shops, and an outdoor museum featuring thatched roof farmhouses from throughout the region.

Enjoy a tour of the UNESCO-listed thatched-roof farmhouses in Shirakawago en route to Kanazawa, one of feudal Japan's wealthiest cities, located on the Sea of Japan. Tour the famous Kenrokuen garden and old samurai and geisha districts, visit some of Japan's most acclaimed museums, enjoy the excellent local seafood and refined cuisine at your ryokan, and shop for the town's celebrated silk, lacquer and gold leaf products. If desired, also opt to take a private excursion along the rugged coast of the Noto Peninsula to visit farm towns, fishing villages and lacquerware workshops.

Next, travel to enchanting Kyoto. Tour important temples and shrines. Gain exclusive access to private gardens and imperial villas. Sip green tea in a bamboo forest, stroll Kyoto's elegant residential backstreets and browse small specialty shops. Continue to Hakone, a volcanic national park with a close-up view of Mt. Fuji, and stay at a luxury ryokan (traditional inn). Soak in private outdoor hot springs and enjoy a gourmet kaiseki (seasonal tasting menu) dinner before returning to Tokyo.