Tauck: Journey Through Japan

Welcome to Tokyo, where centuries-old traditions and cutting-edge innovation exist side by side. Your family journey begins with a seamless transfer from Narita or Haneda Airport to the Conrad Tokyo, ideally situated in the city's Shiodome district, just moments from renowned Ginza. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner, raising a glass to the adventures ahead in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

Discover the rhythms of everyday life in Tokyo, beginning at lively Tsukiji Outer Market, where stalls brim with fresh seafood and local delicacies. Enjoy a hands-on introduction to one of Japan's most celebrated culinary traditions as you learn to make sushi for lunch. This afternoon, visit Meiji Shrine, a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, before experiencing the energetic art of Taiko drumming and discovering Harajuku, Tokyo's centre of youth culture and fashion. Return to the Conrad Tokyo for dinner and an evening together.

Today offers a fascinating glimpse into both the historic and contemporary sides of Tokyo. Begin in Asakusa with a visit to Senso-ji, the city's oldest temple, before browsing the traditional stalls of Nakamise Street and exploring the historic district by rickshaw. After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy a lively sumo demonstration that brings Japan's national sport to life. This afternoon, shift from tradition to innovation at teamLab Planets Tokyo, an immersive digital art museum where light, water, flowers, and sound create ever-changing environments. Return to your hotel with the evening at leisure.

Leave Tokyo behind aboard Japan's celebrated bullet train, traveling toward the tranquil countryside of Hakone. After lunch overlooking Lake Ashi, ascend by tram to Owakudani, a dramatic volcanic valley formed thousands of years ago and still marked by sulphurous vents and steaming hot springs. Discover the region's famous kuro-tamago, or black eggs, before visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where sculpture and nature come together across beautifully landscaped grounds. Settle into Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora this evening for dinner and a peaceful night in the mountains.

Begin the morning with a cruise across serene Lake Ashi aboard a distinctive pirate boat. Weather permitting, admire views of Mount Fuji rising beyond the lake before continuing by bullet train to Hiroshima. Arrive in the late afternoon and settle into the Hilton Hiroshima, centrally located in the heart of the city. Gather for dinner at the hotel before an evening at leisure.

This morning, board a short ferry to Miyajima, renowned for the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and its great torii gate, which appears to rise from the sea. Wander through wooded paths where gentle deer roam freely before returning to Hiroshima for a hands-on culinary experience. Learn to prepare okonomiyaki, one of the city's beloved specialties, before enjoying your creation for lunch. This afternoon, reflect on Hiroshima's history and enduring message of peace with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. For a different perspective, you may also visit Orizuru Tower for panoramic views across the city. Your evening is free to spend as you wish.

Journey to Kyoto aboard Japan's famed bullet train, arriving in this elegant former imperial capital in time for lunch. This afternoon, step into Japan's feudal past at Nijo Castle, built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. During a guided visit, walk across the castle's remarkable nightingale floors, whose distinctive sounds were designed to alert the shogun to approaching footsteps. Afterwards, cross to Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel, situated beside the castle grounds on the site of a former Edo-period estate. Settle into its serene surroundings before dinner at your leisure.

Discover the refined traditions and enduring beauty of Kyoto, celebrated for its extraordinary collection of Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, gardens, and historic neighbourhoods. Begin with a locally guided visit to Kinkaku-ji, the celebrated Golden Pavilion, beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond. Continue to Nishiki Market, a lively passage filled with traditional foods, local specialties, and artisanal goods. This afternoon, experience two of Japan's enduring cultural arts with an authentic tea ceremony and an introduction to calligraphy. The evening is yours to enjoy with your family.

Continue your exploration of Kyoto with a locally guided visit to Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple founded in 780 and dramatically positioned on a forested hillside above the Otowa Waterfall. From its expansive wooden stage, take in sweeping views across the city while learning about the traditions surrounding its famed pure waters. Later, discover the artistry of Kyo-Yuzen through a hands-on stenciling experience. Enjoy lunch on your own and time at leisure to experience more of Kyoto before gathering with the families who have shared your journey for a farewell reception and dinner, celebrating the discoveries and shared moments of your time in Japan.

After an unforgettable journey, you are free to fly home at your convenience today. Safe travels!