Highlights of Japan  (12 days)

Japan is a land of contrast and diversity. While this itinerary covers major sightseeing spots definitely worth visiting, it also integrates lesser-known hidden gems of Japan.  Enjoy the alluring diversity - traditional and modern culture of Japan, energetic trendy big cities and peaceful rural areas, the freshest seafood and exquisite Kyoto-style cuisine.

Begin your tour at Tokyo, the center of Japan.  Since we will have ample opportunity to enjoy the traditional part of Japan in Kyoto and Nara, we will put more emphasis in Tokyo on the modern side of Japan.  You can visit the state-of-the-art architecture, a wide variety of special interest shopping areas, and unique museums.  Also, do not miss the attractive dining. There are numerous options, but a sushi experience at Tsukiji, one of the world's largest fish market, or at a fine sushi restaurant is a must. 

Nagano and Gifu prefectures have abundant beautiful natural scenery.  Although still lesser-known by foreigners, these areas are some of the hidden gems of Japan.  You will encounter grand scenery as well as the provincial part of Japan where people's lifestyles are in harmony with natural blessings.  Highlights include the Okuhida area, a picturesque hot spring town nestled in the Northern Alps area, Takayama, a beautiful historical town, and Shirakawago, a historical village famous for its thatched roof houses and registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Kyoto and Nara are both old capitals of Japan, full of historical and cultural charms.  For people who go to Kyoto for the first time, visiting several distinctive temples and shrines is a typical plan. In order for you to go beyond your expectations, however, you should also explore the not-so-major places, such as the beautiful gardens at a tranquil temple, a lively cobble-stone path, as well as smaller villages on the outskirt of the city.  We have suggestions for you to enjoy peaceful moments.  If you would like to relate to the Japanese culture, a memorable experience of craftworks can be arranged.  Nara, another beautiful historical town, should be visited and stayed in for a few days.  It is not as crowded as Kyoto, and you can feel the tranquil passage of time.

Sample Itinerary Overview

Day 1   Arrive at Tokyo, City tour

Arrive at Tokyo for two nights stay at a prestigious hotel.  Tour of Tokyo including modern architecture, unique museums, and high fashion shops. 

Day 2 　Tokyo fish market, Gourmet tour

Tour of the fish market and lunch at a sushi restaurant.  Visit the gourmet floor of a department store.  Evening at your leisure.  

DAY 3  Matsumoto, Okuhida-Onsengo

Transfer by train to Matsumoto.  Tour of Matsumoto Castle.  By bus, continue to Okuhida-Onsengo, a hot spring resort, for two nights stay in a ryokan.  Relax in a hot spring at the foot of Northern Alps.  Enjoy Hida beef for dinner.

Day 4  Okuhida hiking

Ride a two story ropeway gondola to enjoy a dynamic panrama view of Northern Alps.  From the transfer station, or the terminal point of the ropeway, there are easy trecking paths where you can enjoy alpine flora. 

Day 5  Takayama

Transfer by bus to Takayama for a two nights stay at a ryokan or hotel .  Tour of the old castle town, Takayama.

Day 6  Morning market,  Shirakawago tour　

Morning tour to the market where you will find farmers selling locally grown vegetables.  Tour of Shirakawago, a historical thatched-roofed village which is registered as an UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.  

Day 7  Kyoto

Transfer by train and bullet train to Kyoto.  One night stay at a traditional ryokan, and two nights stay at a luxury hotel.  Afternoon tour of the city.  Enjoy an evening of geisha performance. 

Day 8  Kyoto, City tour

Walking tour of a bamboo path, a panoramic garden, and serene temples.  Visiting a traditional craftsmen's workshop can be arranged. 

Day 9  Kyoto 

At your liesure.  We can make recommendations for you. 

Day 10  Kyoto, Nara

Tour of a market place where you will find Kyoto-brand food and traditional crafts.  Transfer to Nara for two nights stay at a traditional ryokan or hotel.  Tour of Todaiji and Nara Park, and Kofukuji. 

Day 11  Nara

Tour of Houryuuji, Yakushiji. 

Day 12  Nara, Transfer back

Morning at your leisure.  Transfer to Kansai Airport.    

The tour price will differ according to many factors such as the rank of accommodation (e.g. 5-star hotel, 3-star ryokan), way of transportation (e.g. train, private car), number of days with a private guide, duration of your tour, or season.  Please contact us.  One of our tour consultants will come up with an ideal plan and cost for you.

Contact us

For more information, or to start customizing your own itinerary, please contact us.

Michi Travel Japan

Tel: 81-3-5213-5040

E-mail: commentsmtj@michitravel.com