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Home > Japan > Itineraries > Tauck Essense Of Japan 2

Tauck: Essence of Japan

Credits

Luxury TravelDesigners

Departures

February-June & August- November

Duration

13 Days

Locations

Tokyo, Hakone, Gero, Kanazawa, Kyoto

Overview

Inspirational, innovative, and endlessly intriguing, Japan remains a favourite among Tauck travelers, where gilded temples and glittering skyscrapers rise above streets steeped in history and tradition. In Kyoto, enjoy a private home visit featuring a tea ceremony and origami demonstration, explore alongside a local geisha expert, and visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Pure Water Temple (Kiyomizu-dera).

Itinerary in Detail

    Day 1: Tokyo

    Upon arrival in Tokyo, enjoy a transfer to your hotel located in central Tokyo and just a short walk away from some of the city's most popular shopping areas. This evening, please join us for a welcome reception and dinner.

    Hotel: Shangri-La Tokyo

    Shangri-La Tokyo

    Shangri-La Tokyo

    Shangri-La Tokyo

    Day 2: Tokyo

    This morning, visit the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and experience a Kagura ceremonial blessing dating back to the 8th century. Pause for lunch at Nobu, followed by a hands on taiko drumming class. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

    Hotel: Shangri-La Tokyo

    Shangri-La Tokyo

    Shangri-La Tokyo

    Day 3: Tokyo

    Begin the day with a guided visit to the Tokyo National Museum, Japan’s oldest and largest art museum. Explore collections ranging from ancient antiquities to fine art, photography, and rare books. After lunch, step into the world of sumo at a professional wrestling stable, observing daily routines, rituals, and training sessions with insight from a local guide.

    Hotel: Shangri-La Tokyo

    Shangri-La Tokyo

    Shangri-La Tokyo

    Day 4: Tokyo - Hakone

    Travel by bullet train from Tokyo to Odawara, continuing onward to Hakone. Enjoy a ferry ride on Lake Ashi with views of Mount Fuji, weather permitting. After lunch by the lake, visit the Hakone Open Air Museum before arriving at your spa resort. This afternoon, experience ikebana, the art of Japanese flower arranging, followed by dinner at the resort.

    Hotel: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

    Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

    Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

    Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

    Day 5: Hakone

    Visit the Itchiku Kubota Museum, set against views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, showcasing the work of one of Japan’s most influential textile artists. After lunch, return to the hotel for a private sushi making demonstration. Dinner is served at your resort’s dining room.

    Hotel: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

    Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

    Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

    Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

    Day 6: Hakone - Gero

    Board a train to Nagoya, followed by a scenic drive to Gero Onsen. Settle into your traditional onsen hotel and enjoy time in the hot springs before a Japanese style dinner served in a private room.

    Hotel: Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan

    Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan

    Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan

    Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan

    Day 7: Gero - Kanazawa

    Depart for Takayama, known for its artisans and historic streets. Enjoy a sake making experience and tasting at a local brewery, followed by sightseeing and lunch featuring Hida beef. Continue to Kanazawa and enjoy dinner at your hotel.

    Hotel: Hyatt Centric Kanazawa

    Hyatt Centric Kanazawa

    Hyatt Centric Kanazawa

    Day 8: Kanazawa

    Explore the Samurai District and visit the Nomura Samurai Family Residence. Continue to Kenroku en Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscapes. Lunch is served at a Paul Bocuse restaurant blending French and Japanese cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a private Samurai performance at a local temple.

    Hotel: Hyatt Centric Kanazawa

    Hyatt Centric Kanazawa

    Day 9: Kanazawa - Kyoto

    Travel by train to Kyoto, one of Japan’s oldest cities and its cultural heart. Begin with a sightseeing excursion before dinner at your hotel.

    Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

    Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

    Day 10: Kyoto

    Visit Kinkaku ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion, followed by Nijo Castle. After lunch, explore Kyoto’s geisha district with a local expert who shares insights into this historic world. The evening is free to explore at your own pace.

    Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

    Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

    Day 11: Kyoto

    Travel to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park, Museum, and the A Bomb Dome. After lunch, return to Kyoto by bullet train and enjoy dinner upon arrival.

    Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

    Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

    Day 12: Kyoto

    Begin the day at Kiyomizu dera Temple. Later, visit a private home for a traditional tea ceremony and origami lesson. The afternoon is free to explore Kyoto at your leisure. In the evening, gather for a farewell reception and dinner.

    Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

    Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

    Day 13: Kyoto

    Enjoy a transfer from your hotel to the airport ahead of your journey home.

Speak to our Travel Designers about combining this itinerary with a pre or post luxury cruise

Find out more

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