Japan: Land of the Rising Sun
Experience Overview
Beginning in tech-mecca Tokyo and finishing in Kyoto, this 12-day trip will introduce you to iconic landmarks and the lesser-known cities through Japan’s central and western reaches. Ride the scenic ropeway in Hakone, stay with a local family in Hagi and see the floating torii gate of Miyajima Island. Wander through Takayama’s Hida Folk Village, visit the Peace Park in Hiroshima and join your local leader on an walk through the historic Gion District in Kyoto.
Highlights
- Soar high on a ride on the Hakone ropeway, cruise across the picturesque Lake Ashi and (on a clear day), get a glimpse of the glorious Mt. Fuji.
- Discover the lesser-known Hagi, an ancient samurai town and learn about the female sake brewer breaking stereotypes. Get a deeper insight into local life with your homestay hosts and feast on delicious home-cooked meals.
- Explore traditional Japanese culture in Edo-period Takayama. Visit the Hida Folk Village, wander through a 600-year-old market and take some zen time at incense making in Zenkoji temple.
- Visit the Peace Park for a moving insight into the devastation of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima. Then, get to peacefully scenic Miyajima Island where wild deer roam the streets.
- Walk through the historic streets of Kyoto – Japan's cultural capital. Wander through the Gion District, pass through the red torri gate at Fushimi Inari Shrine and see the golden glow of Kinkakuji.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1724
Tour Type: Kleine Gruppe
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Boat,Public Bus,Cable Car,Ferry,Metro,High Speed Train,Train
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Rail & Cruises
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: CJST
Starts: Tokyo, Japan
Finishes: Kyoto, Japan
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (4), Dinner (2)Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights),Japanese Inn ( 2 nights),Home Stay (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $6255 ($521 /day)
Itinerary
Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan. Your adventure begins in Tokyo with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Bursting with contemporary urban culture, there are many sides of Tokyo to explore including fascinating museums, world-class shopping centres and neighbourhood backstreets lined with hole-in-the-wall eateries and bars. If you arrive early, maybe wander through the Hama Rikyu Garden, visit the Sumida Hokusai Museum or explore Ueno Park. After your meeting, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant.
Optional Activities:
- Tokyo - Hama Rikyu Garden (300 JPY)
- Tokyo - Sumida Hokusai Museum (400 JPY)
- Tokyo - Tokyo National Museum (1000 JPY)
- Tokyo - Ueno Park - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, travel to Hakone – a scenic hot spring town in the foothills of Mt Fuji. When you arrive, the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit the iconic red gate that stands in the water of Lake Ashi, visit Hakone Shrine, wander through modern sculptures and beautiful gardens at the Hakone Open-Air Museum or simply relax in one of Hakone’s numerous onsens (hot springs). Tonight, why not find a local restaurant for dinner and try black eggs, which are cooked in the hot springs of Owakudani, paired with a local beer.
Accommodation:
- Minshuku (Japanese Inn) (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, hop on a boat across Ashinoko Lake, then ride the Hakone ropeway cable car to the top of the surrounding mountains. The area around the lake offers plenty of stunning views, and you may even catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji in the distance if weather conditions are clear. The afternoon is free to further explore Hakone’s mountain scenery and volcanic sites. Maybe visit the boiling sulphur springs of Owakudani, go for a walk through the hills of the famed grassland ecosystem of Sengokuhara or discover a collection of art at the Pola Museum of Art.
Included Activities:
- Hakone - Cable car/Ropeway
- Hakone - Lake Ashinoko boat cruise
Optional Activities:
- Hakone - Open-Air Museum (2000 JPY)
- Hakone - Checkpoint Museum (500 JPY)
- Hakone - Onsen (public hot spring bath) (1500 JPY)
Accommodation:
- Minshuku (Japanese Inn) (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by a local train, then a shinkansen towards Takayama – a charming Edo period town in the Japanese Alps, famous for its traditional inns, sake breweries and the Hida Folk Village. The village is your first stop – an outdoor museum where the traditional thatched-roof architecture unique to the area has been relocated to a mountain setting to preserve traditional Japanese culture. Discover the techniques used to build farmhouses that could withstand fierce winters and long periods of isolation due to snow-closed roads. The thick thatching kept in warmth, and the roofs were angled to minimise snow build-up. Each house is like its own self-contained museum, with displays of personal items and traditional tools. Tonight, maybe join your group for dinner at a local restaurant – your leader will have the best recommendations.
Included Activities:
- Takayama - Hida Folk Village
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll head to the markets in Gifu prefecture – these markets have been held for over 600 years and are known for their array of high-altitude vegetables. Browse the stalls of seasonal produce that’s brought in from the surrounding countryside and set up by local farm women from 7 am every morning. Look out for the unique local style of pickles, the bags of miso wrapped in leaves, genkotsu ame (soy bean candy), preserved fish, spices and the delicious marshmallow treat, owara tamaten. Then, head to Zenkoji Temple to learn how to make incense, which is believed to have purifying qualities. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the town at your own pace.
Included Activities:
- Takayama - Incense making in Zenkoji Temple
- Takayama - Morning Market visit
Optional Activities:
- Takayama - Festival Float Museum (1000 JPY)
- Takayama - Kusakabe Traditional House (1000 JPY)
- Takayama - Bike hire (per day) (1000 JPY)
- Takayama - Showa Museum (1000 JPY)
- Takayama - Takayama Jinya Building (440 JPY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by express train and shinkansen to Hiroshima today. When you arrive, you’ll visit Hiroshima’s Peace Park. The Genbaku (A-Bomb) Dome and Peace Memorial Museum stand testament to the fateful day in August 1945 when Hiroshima was chosen as target for the first ever wartime use of the atomic bomb. The dome was just metres from where the bomb detonated so it was able to retain its shape and the fact that it looks almost exactly as it did after the bombing has made it an enduring symbol of peace. The memorial park serves the same purpose, and has museums, memorials and monuments dedicated to the memory of victims. This evening, maybe head out with your leader for one of the city’s signature dishes for dinner – okonomiyaki (a savoury pancake of egg, cabbage, soba noodles and meat or seafood).
Included Activities:
- Hiroshima - Peace Park & A - Bomb Dome
- Hiroshima - Peace Museum
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll make your way to the nearby island of Miyajima with its famous 'floating' torii gate. You might like to further explore the island by climbing to the top of Mt Miyajima (or hopping on the cable car instead) for 360-degree views of the Inland Sea. Keep your eyes out for inquisitive and hungry deer that roam the streets. You have the rest of the day free to enjoy some of the other sites. You could stop by the five-storied Hiroshima Castle, which originally dates to the 1590s. It was destroyed by the bomb but reconstructed in all its glory in the 1950s and now holds an informative museum. The wonderful Shukkeien Garden, with teahouses and waterfalls, is also a perfect place to decompress.
Included Activities:
- Hiroshima - Miyajima Island
Optional Activities:
- Miyajima - Itsukushima-jinja Shrine (300 JPY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, travel to Hagi – a coastal city known for its spring cherry blossoms and forested slopes of Mt Shizuki. When you arrive, discover the Hagi Castle Ruins. Then, join a walking tour around the Samurai District. Wander through the middle- and lower-class samurai houses and merchants, then walk down the widest street and main road where the feudal lord’s processions passed. Tonight, meet your homestay family and sit down to a home-cooked meal.
Included Activities:
- Hagi - Hagi Castle and Samurai district walking tour
- Hagi - Homestay and home-cooked meals
Accommodation:
- Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, go with the flow and dive into the day to day life in Hagi with your host. Maybe check out their gardens and vegetables, visit the local supermarket for some shopping or walk around the neighbourhood. Each host will have their own plans. This afternoon, you’ll regroup and hop on a bike to explore the countryside and coastline of Hagi. But first, visit a local sake brewery and hear about the inspiring story of the local female sake brewer and how she’s broken the taboo and taken on the family business to continue brewing as one of the very few female sake brewers in the country. Then, continue your cycling tour through the countryside of Hagi, passing rice fields, along the coastline with a great view of the Sea of Japan. Later, head back to your homestay for another night with your host family.
Included Activities:
- Hagi - Countryside cycling tour
- Hagi - Homestay local experiences
- Hagi - Female sake brewer visit
Accommodation:
- Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Hagi today and travel to Kyoto. Originally founded as Heian-kyo (‘tranquility and peace capital’) by Emperor Kammu in 794, Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years, but the emperor and government are now in Tokyo. With over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens, there’s plenty to explore in this gorgeous city. Your leader will take you on a sunset walk through the Gion District (look out for wandering Geisha and Meiko!). Tonight, maybe find a local restaurant for dinner and try some traditional sushi or beef.
Included Activities:
- Kyoto - Gion District walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, with its impressive Golden Pavilion, immortalised by Yukio Mishima's novel. Then, visit the red tori gates in Fushimi Inari. For the more active, hiking up the mountain following the red torii gates is a great way to enjoy the forest and the views over the city! Your afternoon is free to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Maybe head out in the evening with your group to celebrate the end of your adventure together.
Included Activities:
- Kyoto - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Kyoto - Fushimi Inari-Taisha
Optional Activities:
- Kyoto - Bike hire (per day) from (1200 JPY)
- Kyoto - Sanjusangendo Temple (600 JPY)
- Kyoto - Kiyomizu-dera (500 JPY)
- Kyoto - Tea Ceremony with Maiko/Geisha (14300 JPY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for the day and you’re free to depart the hotel at any time after check out. If you would like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Frank - Traveled, March 2024
I traveled 100 countries before. And this tour was the highlight of all. 5 star rating. Perfect tour with the amazing tour guide Zac. Had the best times and if people ask me which country I like the most: I will say: Japan.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/04/2024
Philip - Traveled, March 2024
A trip that requires a good level of physical capability with regards to the walking tours provided . The tour gives an expansive view of life and history of Japan with the opportunity to stay in both original Japanese guest houses and comfortable hotels. Travel by bullet train , bus, underground rail , boat and express trains gives a variety of experiences not to be missed
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/30/2024
Donna - Traveled, March 2024
This trip is a great way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and leave you wanting more!! The itinerary covers both modern and traditional Japan and coupled with a great tour leader - Michiko It was a fantastic experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Ashley - Traveled, March 2024
Shingo is the only way to go! A fantastic guide, very organised, knowledgeable and friendly. This trip was incredible showcasing a variety of Japanese culture, food and experiences. The public transport was always comfortable, clean, reliable and Shingo was excellent at guiding us through all the stations. The accommodation was also always clean and comfortable. Food ranging from family run restaurants to street markets with each day something new to try. Definitely recommend having a few days in Tokyo prior to the tour to explore. Thank you Shingo for the BEST trip ever!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Kerrie - Traveled, March 2024
Land of Rising Sun trip is a must for anyone who has not visited Japan. Each location gives you an opportunity to experience culture, landscape and food. Thank you Mr.Shingo for your professionalism and your personality. You are a great ambassador for your country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/23/2024
Clare - Traveled, February 2024
This trip gave a great taste of Japan with a really nice mix of city and small towns. Everything ran so smoothly and effortlessly so we only had to sit back and enjoy. A nice mix of Japanese treats were included such as ensens, ryokan style hotels, wonderful mix of food options provided by the trip leader, tea ceremony nd kimono experience. And not to mention some really stunning scenery.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2024
Manojkumar - Traveled, November 2023
This is a wonderful trip which gives you feel for the culture and history of Japan, seen through its landscapes and architecture. Asako was a brilliant team leader and her passion for the history of her country was clear fro all to see. I would highly recommend any trip to Japan led by Asako and her colleague Nobuyuki.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/02/2023
Rosalind - Traveled, November 2023
Was a great way to see some key highlights for my first trip to Japan. Was delighted to be able to enjoy some hidden gems too, due to our guide Asako. Her relationship with the local Ryokan owners was really beautiful to see, and it made our time at each one extra special. It was super helpful to have intrepid organise 2 weeks of a long trip and I would recommend it for first time visits especially!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
Steve - Traveled, November 2023
An excellent introduction to Japan. There is so much to see but our guide KJ made sure that the whole group got the best of the experience. KJ even arranged excellent weather for viewing Mount Fuji!! As vegetarians we expected to struggle a bit as dashi is used in everything but with KJ's help and using Happy Cow app and Google Translate we managed to eat really well.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/29/2023
Kim - Traveled, November 2023
This trip provides a great overall experience of Japan I feel. Staying in the local ryokans was such a wonderful experience of the culture as was going in the onsens. The train travel was well organised and comfortable. If you experience Mt Fuji on a sunny day like we did then you won't be disappointed. Our guide KJ helped make the trip. He was fantastic!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/20/2023
Gregory - Traveled, November 2023
Our trip to Japan was amazing. It could not have been better. There was a packed itinerary and everything went so smoothly. The only decisions we had to make was what to eat. It was responsible tourism and with zero stress - exactly what you want from a holiday. Our tour leader Daisuke Okawa was outstanding and made the holiday special.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/19/2023
Julia - Traveled, November 2023
I had a great time with our guides Dai and Hiro! This trip was a great mix of cities and small towns. The accommodation was sometimes a bit lackluster, but the cities themselves and the knowledge of the guides made up for it! Pack light & bring a great pair of walking shoes, as you'll be sure to get your steps in during this trip! Highly recommend going to Karaoke with your group and getting up in the early morning to see some of Kyoto's best sights without the crowds!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/02/2023
Lim-Ghec Jade - Traveled, January 2024
Lovely! Thank you for the treasured memories and giving us an amazing unforgettable experience! We saw the highlights of Japan.The guide was very helpful and knowledgeable.Helped us to see the amazing and incredible country: safe, clean, has delicious food and great shopping. We saw Japan’s amazing history, culture and technology. Thank you! An unforgettable trip and we really didn’t want to part! The group was great! ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2024
Mya - Traveled, January 2024
I would highly recommend Daisuke. Very friendly and fun guy to be around. He is very efficient when it comes to public transport He know where we have to go and how to get there. We were almost never late and a lot about Japanese culture.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Judy - Traveled, November 2023
I thought November might be too cold for “The Land of the Rising Sun Tour” but it was perfect. I loved travelling by Japan’s amazing Rail system. Our guide Asako made everything super easy for us. Having all tickets ready for us, even getting up early to line up for the day’s activities, so we wouldn’t have to. I cant recommend this trip highly enough. Japan, I will be back!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/02/2023
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