Meals

All breakfasts and three dinners are included. Japanese cuisine is usually a highlight of any Japan trip. It is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes usually prepared with seasonal ingredients. Seafood is common, and usually comes grilled or deep fried. Sushi and sashimi aside, other staple dishes include soba or udon noodles, sukiyaki (meat, fish and vegetables cooked in broth) and yakiniku (grilled meat). The included dinners are usually taken at traditional guesthouses, which will serve a kaiseki-style dinner, a multi-course meal including a dozen tiny dishes prepared with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. When food is not included, your leader can always recommend the best local eateries and arrange group meals for a full immersion in the varied and excellent local cuisine. Please note, in Japan the availability of certain specialised products for restricted diets (eg gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan) is minimal or non-existent. The group meals arranged by the tour leader will be in traditional eateries where the choices of vegan dishes may be limited to simple salads or boiled rice. However, several vegan restaurants are available in Kyoto and Tokyo. It may be a good idea to bring some foodstuffs with you that you normally consume, or to supplement meals with snacks purchased in the local convenience stores. Please advise us at time of booking you have any specific dietary requirements.

Guide

We use a mixture of local and international leaders who are all experienced in leading international groups and have an in-depth knowledge of the country.

Accommodation

The accommodation on this cultural adventure through Japan showcases traditional hospitality, with onsen (hot spring baths) in most of the places we stay. The below accommodations are the normal hotels used for 2024 departures. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar hotels of the same standard and quality. Kyoto: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (nights 1-5) With tatami flooring and rooms inspired by tea flowers, this well-located hotel in Kyoto is a fitting introduction to Japan. It also houses onsen (natural hot spring baths) and a restaurant serving Japanese and international cuisines. As with all Dormy Inn accommodations, the chefs present a favourite local dish. Here it’s yuba kaisendon, a seafood bowl with yuba (a dried tofu). Takayama: Variety of ryokans (night 6-7) Experience Japanese omotenashi (hospitality) with a two-night stay in a ryokan, a traditional inn. You’ll sleep in the local fashion: on thick futons on the floor. Rooms are always doubles or twin-share but bathrooms and showers are generally communal. As is custom, we wear yukata robes and enjoy a kaiseki, a multi-course meal that has become a staple part of the ryokan experience. Matsumoto: Dormy Inn Matsumoto (night 8) This Matsumoto outlet of the Dormy Inn brand has hot spring baths, saunas and cold baths on the top floor. Elsewhere, the restaurant serves traditional Japanese and international foods. Make sure to seek out the shinshu soba, a local speciality made with wild vegetables and nameko mushrooms. Yudanaka: Biyu no Yado (night 9) Surrounded by the five Hokushin mountains, Biyu no Yado is a peaceful retreat. It has the first onsen in Yudanaka certified by the Nagano Prefecture and the facilities are attended by the ‘hot springs guardian’ who measures the temperature and conditions throughout the day. Food here embraces the bounty of the region, with seasonal mountain delicacies and fish caught from the nearby Chikuma River. Tokyo: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (nights 10-13) Finish the adventure in the popular Shinjuku area of Tokyo with a stay at The Washington. There are plenty of spots to gather as a group, including a selection of places to eat. For a treat, try the Steak & Shabu-shabu Fujita, a teppanyaki restaurant where you can watch the chef work their magic. Worth knowing Single supplements can be pre-booked for Kyoto (five nights), Matsumoto (one night) and Tokyo (four nights) only. In Takayama (two nights) and Yudanaka (one night), single supplements are not available and rooming is based on twin share (sharing with another group member of the same sex). Single supplements are limited, payable at the time of booking, and subject to availability. In Japan, single supplements are often accommodated in either an actual single and/or double for sole use. Room sizes in Western-style hotels in Japan are generally smaller. If requesting a double bed, these can be smaller than Western double bed sizes, so couples may prefer twin beds. In ryokans, females and males have access to separate bathrooms; however, showering and bathing facilities can lack the privacy of a Western-style shared bathroom Onsen (Japanese hot springs) For many visitors to Japan, the onsen is unfamiliar territory. An onsen is a Japanese hot spring and the bathing facilities and inns frequently situated around them. The combination of a strict bathing etiquette, that nudity is compulsory, and that the water temperature is often hotter than most whirlpool baths can cause some reluctance for first timers. However, once the courage is mustered, you may discover that an onsen is one of the highlights of your visit to Japan. We can try an onsen in Takayama, and some hot springs in Yudanaka. Please be aware, you may be refused entry if you have large and visible tattoos. Some accommodations may have private baths available for reservation.

Transport

Transport will be by public train, metro, bus, tram and occasionally private minibus. The trains in Japan are both highly efficient and very comfortable and we use public transport around Kyoto and Tokyo to experience the Japanese urban life. Japan Rail Pass The tour makes use of a seven-day Japan Rail Pass, the cost of which is included in the price and is purchased by Exodus before departure. If you are planning to extend your trip and wish to extend or purchase an additional pass, please contact our Customer Operations team for more information and costs. If you hold a Japan Business or Residence visa, please note that you will not be eligible to use the Japan Rail Pass. Please contact us if this applies to you.

Others

All transport and listed activities Group arrival transfer (for group flight) Free departure transfer by shuttle service Japan Rail Pass

Not included:

Insurance

Insurance is not included

Optional

Single accommodation (available on request) Lunch at local restaurants Cultural Show Nakasendo Walk Hakone trip Visit Skytree Tower Karaoke Farewell night

Flights

International flights not included.

Others

— Travel insurance — Single accommodation- (limited availability & on request)- 10 nights only at hotels in Kyoto, Matsumoto and Tokyo — Visas or vaccinations — Arrival & departure transfers (not available on this tour)

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Start Kyoto
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Start Kyoto

The trip starts in Kyoto, an atmospheric city amid beautiful hills. We gather for the first time at the hotel and enjoy a welcome briefing this evening, a good chance to ask any questions you may have about the adventure ahead. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 2 Day 2: Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-Ji (Golden Pavilion) And Ryoan-Ji Temple (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-Ji (Golden Pavilion) And Ryoan-Ji Temple (Breakfast)

With more than 2,000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto is a treasure house of Japanese heritage and undoubtedly one of the most fascinating cities in Asia. Unlike many other Japanese towns, it escaped the ravages of both the Second World War and modern urban development, keeping intact much of the spirit and architecture of traditional Japan. Today, we have an introductory tour of the city. Starting with a visit to the impressive Nijo castle, built in 1603 as a residence for the Tokugawa shoguns, before moving onto the Golden Temple of Kinkaku-ji, built in 1397 as a summer villa for the shogun Yoshimitsu Ashikaga and immortalised in Mishima Yukio’s novel, The Golden Pavilion. We then visit the Ryoan-ji temple, home to the most famous rock garden in Japan. Afterwards, we head back to central Kyoto. Those who wish may opt to take a leisurely late lunch at one of the local restaurants in the area, relax back at the hotel or discover Kyoto at your own leisure. You may like to take a stroll around Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s Kitchen, which specialises in all things food related and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 3 Day 3: Day Trip To Nara, Ancient Capital Of Japan. Visit Impressive Unesco Temples Including Todai-Ji. Return To Kyoto; Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha And Visit Historic Gion (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Day Trip To Nara, Ancient Capital Of Japan. Visit Impressive Unesco Temples Including Todai-Ji. Return To Kyoto; Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha And Visit Historic Gion (Breakfast)

Today we make a day trip to the ancient capital of Japan, Nara (approximately one hour each way). With eight Unesco World Heritage sites, it’s second only to Kyoto as a repository of Japan’s cultural legacy. Our walking tour includes a visit to the best known temples and shrines, including the Todai-ji Great Buddha temple. Built in 752 by Emperor Shomu, this 49ft (15m) tall bronze Buddha is housed in what is reputed to be the largest wooden building in the world. We also spend time in the Nara Koen Park, home to large numbers of overfed and slightly unruly deer, and visit the attractive Kasuga Shinto shrine. Later in the afternoon, we travel back to Kyoto and stop at the Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Fushimi Inari is the most important of several thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. Foxes are thought to be Inari’s messengers, resulting in many fox statues across the shrine grounds. As we head towards early evening, we can walk around Gion, the most famous geisha district in Kyoto. Packed with bars, restaurants and traditional teahouses, Gion is most atmospheric in the early evening, when the lanterns are lit. At this time, we may also see an apprentice geisha on the way to an appointment, though it’s rare to see one. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 4 Day 4: Free Day In Kyoto; Relax In One Of The Many Zen Gardens, Walk The Popular Philosopher’S Path Or Experience A Traditional Tea Ceremony (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Free Day In Kyoto; Relax In One Of The Many Zen Gardens, Walk The Popular Philosopher’S Path Or Experience A Traditional Tea Ceremony (Breakfast)

Today is free for individual sightseeing – there’s plenty to see and do in Kyoto. Kyoto is particularly rich in temples and gardens, and you can spend the day in this area, perhaps starting at the Silver Pavilion, then strolling along the tree-lined canal known as the Philosopher’s Path and finishing at the lovely Zen gardens of Nanzen-ji. Another day trip to consider is Arashiyama, a pleasant tourist district in the western outskirts of the city. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy the bamboo forest. Other notable sites are Okochi Sanso Villa (the one-time home and gardens of actor Okochi Denjiro) and the scenic Togetsukyo ridge, a wooden construction spanning the Katsura River. Arashiyama is particularly popular during the cherry blossom and autumn colour seasons. If you’re looking for souvenirs, the Teramachi covered market has plenty on offer, including Japanese woodblock prints, handmade knives, and trendy J-fashion clothing. Lastly, consider a peaceful evening walk along the Kamo River, starting at the Sanjo Bridge and finishing at the Shijo Bridge, then back along the narrow little street of Pontocho, an atmospheric dining alley that comes alive at night. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 5 Day 5: Day Trip To Hiroshima; Visit Peace Memorial Park And The Pretty Island Of Miyajima (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Day Trip To Hiroshima; Visit Peace Memorial Park And The Pretty Island Of Miyajima (Breakfast)

Today is our first experience of the shinkansen (bullet train) as we speed to Hiroshima for the day (approximately two hours each way). Once in Hiroshima, we spend time at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, both monuments to the fateful day in August 1945 when the city was struck by the first wartime use of the atomic bomb. In the park, there’s a symbolic flame that will only be extinguished when the last nuclear weapon on Earth has been destroyed. In the afternoon, we make a short excursion by local tram and ferry to the beautiful island of Miyajima; home to the floating torii (Shinto gate) of the Itsukushima Shrine. At high tide, when set against the backdrop of Mount Misen, this torii makes one of the most beautiful and photogenic sights in Japan. Please note, the floating torii is currently undergoing renovation works, but we still recommend a visit to this enchanting island as part of the day trip to Hiroshima. We depart Hiroshima late afternoon, arriving at our Kyoto hotel in the evening. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 6 Day 6: Travel From Kyoto To Takayama, A Traditional Old Town Set Amid The Japanese Alps; Visit The Hida Folk Village (Breakfast,Dinner)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Travel From Kyoto To Takayama, A Traditional Old Town Set Amid The Japanese Alps; Visit The Hida Folk Village (Breakfast,Dinner)

Travelling by train through forested valleys, we make our way this morning to the peaceful and attractive old town of Takayama (approximately four hours) in the centre of the majestic Hida Mountains. We spend two nights here and have plenty of time to appreciate the charm and ambience of this delightful place. In the afternoon, we visit Hida Folk Village, an interesting outdoor museum of traditional rural architecture in pleasant, landscaped gardens, a short walk from our accommodation. We stay in a traditional Japanese accommodation where we can experience the Japanese lifestyle and hospitality (please refer to the accommodation section for more information). Accommodation: We use a variety of ryokans in Takayama
Day 7 Day 7: Orientation Tour In Takayama And Free Day To Explore The Peaceful Shrines And Temples (Breakfast,Dinner)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Orientation Tour In Takayama And Free Day To Explore The Peaceful Shrines And Temples (Breakfast,Dinner)

With more than a dozen museums and galleries, and several well-kept temples and parks, there are plenty of ways to spend a relaxing day in Takayama. We start with a short orientation tour around the morning market, held daily along the banks of the Miyagawa River in the centre of town. Here, amid friendly farmers with their familiar (and not so familiar) agricultural produce, it is possible to find interesting souvenirs. Not so far away, and of particular interest, is the well-preserved Sanmachi district, a collection of three Edo-era streets, where wooden shops, restaurants and sake breweries give the area a medieval feel. Treat yourself to a local lunch and sake tasting on these streets, then stop at the numerous lacquer ware and antique shops. For an insight into the life of medieval Japanese officials and the way they dealt (often not so compassionately) with those in their charge, visit the old Government House of Takayama-jinya. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town at your own pace: we recommend a stroll along the temple-lined path called the Higashiyama Walkway and visit the several temples and attractions created by the medieval warlord, Kanamori Nagachika (1524-1600), who longed for Kyoto. Accommodation: We use a variety of ryokans in Takayama
Day 8 Day 8: On To The Medieval Village Of Tsumago; Short Leisurely Walk On The Nakasendo Trail; Train To Matsumoto (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: On To The Medieval Village Of Tsumago; Short Leisurely Walk On The Nakasendo Trail; Train To Matsumoto (Breakfast)

Today we travel by express and local trains to the historic castle town of Matsumoto (approximately four hours). En route, we visit the medieval village of Tsumago, which has changed little from its heyday as a post town in the Edo period. This is the best preserved of the many staging posts along the old Nakasendo Way, which fulfils the same role it did in centuries past: offering food and refuge to travellers. Those who wish can join the leader for a one-hour walk through peaceful forest trails, starting by the Odaki and Medaki waterfalls and finishing in Tsumago. We reach Matsumoto late afternoon, where we have time to relax and perhaps take a leisurely stroll after dinner to see the impressive castle by night. Accommodation: Dormy Inn Matsumoto (or similar)
Day 9 Day 9: Visit Matsumoto Castle And Travel By Train To The Spa Town Of Yudanaka; Soak In A Hot Spring (Breakfast,Dinner)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Visit Matsumoto Castle And Travel By Train To The Spa Town Of Yudanaka; Soak In A Hot Spring (Breakfast,Dinner)

This morning we visit the impressive Matsumoto Castle. Founded in 1504, this castle, otherwise known as Crow Castle due to its black colour, is one of the two best preserved in Japan, most others having been destroyed following the Meiji Restoration. Its imposing six-storey tower has been designated a national treasure. Please note, the castle preserves its original interior and structure, with very tall steps and steep staircases, which some might find difficult to ascend and descend. We return to Matsumoto train station for our afternoon journey (approximately three hours) to the spa town of Yudanaka, which has some fantastic natural hot springs, where we spend a night in another Japanese-style accommodation. Accommodation: Biyu no Yado (or similar)
Day 10 Day 10: See The Much-Loved Snow Monkeys Before Travelling By Train To Tokyo; Evening Orientation Tour (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: See The Much-Loved Snow Monkeys Before Travelling By Train To Tokyo; Evening Orientation Tour (Breakfast)

As well as being home to some of the best hot springs in Japan, the small spa-town of Yudanaka is mainly famous for being the gateway to the Jigokudani Onsen or Snow Monkey Park. Here, the indigenous macaque monkeys have discovered the benefits of descending from the hills to soak and play in hot baths. The sight is most spectacular in winter, when snow covers the grounds and the hot steam creates amazing visual effects but (despite the name) the snow monkeys actually inhabit the area year-round. To reach the park, we walk for approximately 25 minutes on an easy forest trail and we have approximately one-hour to admire and photograph these entertaining creatures. No visit to Japan would be complete without a trip to Tokyo. This afternoon, we travel from Yudanaka to the capital by bullet train (approximately four hours), arriving in the early evening. On arrival in Tokyo, we’ll transfer to our hotel and start exploring the bright lights of the big city at night. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 Day 11: Optional Trip To Hakone Or To The Lovely Seaside Town Of Kamakura (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Optional Trip To Hakone Or To The Lovely Seaside Town Of Kamakura (Breakfast)

If you wish to see more of this wonderful country, today is the last day of your Japan Rail Pass, entitling you to free train journeys to many destinations. A popular daytrip from Tokyo is Hakone, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, less than 1hr 30min away by train. Home to hot springs, natural beauty and Mount Fuji views, Hakone also encompasses Lake Ashi, which can be toured by boat. Another blissful escape is the coastal town of Kamakura, offering numerous temples, shrines, historical monuments and panoramic hiking trails. If you don’t want to leave Tokyo, soak up the atmosphere of this truly astounding city. While being perhaps the most energetic and futuristic capital in the world, Tokyo remains a remarkably friendly, safe, manageable and delightful place to visit. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)
Day 12 Day 12: A Full-Day City Tour Of Tokyo, Including The Senso-Ji Temple (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: A Full-Day City Tour Of Tokyo, Including The Senso-Ji Temple (Breakfast)

Today we have a guided tour of Tokyo. Making use of the highly efficient tube system, we can visit some of the main attractions including the lively Senso-ji Temple in the old entertainment district of Asakusa and Ueno (depending on season). We will also visit a park or garden, which become especially spectacular during cherry blossom and autumn season. There is also free time to discover other attractions at your own pace. For those with a head for heights, we recommend an optional visit to the Skytree Tower for views of the city. At 2,080ft (634m), it is the tallest building in Japan and the one of the tallest structures in the world. In the evening, the possibilities for entertainment are almost limitless with the Tokyo nightlife as exciting as anywhere in Asia. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)
Day 13 Day 13: Free Day For Further Exploration; Optional Karaoke Farewell Night (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Free Day For Further Exploration; Optional Karaoke Farewell Night (Breakfast)

Today has been left free for further individual exploration of Tokyo. We recommend visiting the Meiji Shrine; surrounded by tranquil forest. From there, cross over to the upscale Omotesando street, sometimes called the Champs Elysee of Tokyo. If you’re interested in culture or shopping, there are limitless opportunities with districts such as Ginza, known for its exclusive stores, Shibuya, home to the busiest intersection in the world, and Shinjuku, the hub of Tokyo nightlife. For a lovely day trip, the historic seaside town of Kamakura is 90 minutes away by train, and highlights include a  giant outdoor Buddha and the nearby island of Enoshima. Your leader can advise how best to maximise your free day in Tokyo. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)
Day 14 Day 14: End Tokyo (Breakfast)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: End Tokyo (Breakfast)

Our Japanese adventure comes to end. Alternatively, if you’d like a bit more time to explore this energetic city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

+11

14 days tour

Ancient & Modern Japan

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Ancient & Modern Japan

Day 1: Start Kyoto

Day 2: Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-Ji (Golden Pavilion) And Ryoan-Ji Temple (Breakfast)

Day 3: Day Trip To Nara, Ancient Capital Of Japan. Visit Impressive Unesco Temples Including Todai-Ji. Return To Kyoto; Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha And Visit Historic Gion (Breakfast)

Day 4: Free Day In Kyoto; Relax In One Of The Many Zen Gardens, Walk The Popular Philosopher’S Path Or Experience A Traditional Tea Ceremony (Breakfast)

Day 5: Day Trip To Hiroshima; Visit Peace Memorial Park And The Pretty Island Of Miyajima (Breakfast)

Day 6: Travel From Kyoto To Takayama, A Traditional Old Town Set Amid The Japanese Alps; Visit The Hida Folk Village (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 7: Orientation Tour In Takayama And Free Day To Explore The Peaceful Shrines And Temples (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 8: On To The Medieval Village Of Tsumago; Short Leisurely Walk On The Nakasendo Trail; Train To Matsumoto (Breakfast)

Day 9: Visit Matsumoto Castle And Travel By Train To The Spa Town Of Yudanaka; Soak In A Hot Spring (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 10: See The Much-Loved Snow Monkeys Before Travelling By Train To Tokyo; Evening Orientation Tour (Breakfast)

Day 11: Optional Trip To Hakone Or To The Lovely Seaside Town Of Kamakura (Breakfast)

Day 12: A Full-Day City Tour Of Tokyo, Including The Senso-Ji Temple (Breakfast)

Day 13: Free Day For Further Exploration; Optional Karaoke Farewell Night (Breakfast)

Day 14: End Tokyo (Breakfast)

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