Today, we depart the USA on our overnight flight to Japan. What an exciting vacation as we explore ancient and modern Japanese culture firsthand.

We arrive in Japan, the “Land of the Rising Sun” to begin our journey in the electrifying city of Tokyo, where pop culture is turned all the way up and traditions are rich and enduring. We check into our hotel for our three-night stay.

After breakfast, we tour Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest Geisha district where we see Senso-Ji, a colorful Buddhist temple famous for the red chochin (lantern) hanging at the entrance gate. We experience the long-standing tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony, dating back to the 15th century. During free time, you may visit Nakamise Shopping Arcade, the oldest shopping street in Japan. Then, we head to Tokyo National Museum to learn about the fascinating history and culture of Tokyo. The museum displays artwork and antiques from Japan and the surrounding area. Tonight, we join our fellow travelers at a welcome dinner. (B, D)

Amid a lush forest outside of Tokyo, we visit the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. Excitement builds as we pass by the grounds of the Imperial Palace and see the Niju Bridge, the well-known symbol of the Imperial Palace. Later, we walk through Ginza, one of the most elegant and luxurious streets in the world, where modern landscape meets rich history. We enjoy shopping at some of the most renowned “department stores” in Japan. (B)

We continue our journey to visit the lakeside resort of Hakone, renowned for its hot springs. In the shadow of Mt. Fuji (UNESCO), this scenic town hugs the shorelines of Lake Ashi. We make a stop at Owakudani, located in an active volcanic zone. The Owakudani crater was created some 3,000 years ago, when Mt. Hakone erupted. We then climb aboard the Hakone Ropeway, an aerial cable car descending from Owakudani for a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji. Next, we take to the deep-blue waters of Lake Ashi on a cruise where we will see epic views of the local mountains before stopping in the charming town of Moto-Hakone. Tonight, we experience a traditional kaiseki dinner and overnight in Hakone. (B, D)

Our day begins in Matsumoto at Matsumoto Castle, known as the “Crow Castle” because of its striking black exterior. Later, we will step back in time in the rural Edo-period town of Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps. Well known to the locals for its connection to sake, this is the perfect place to gather for a visit to one of Japan’s 200-year-old’s sake breweries. Afterward, we experience a true Japanese epicurean treat – traditional rice wine paired with a special Hida beef dinner. We check into our hotel for a two-night stay in Takayama. (B, D)

The ancient cultures of Takayama come alive this morning in the town’s historic district. We take a walk through the past and glimpse the 19th-century Jinya government building. We stroll through the morning market, a 600-yearold open-air market with locally grown and produced products, located along the Miyagawa River. We circuit the winding streets, where the town’s traditional charms are preserved in the inns and houses. This afternoon, you may continue exploring Takayama on your own before enjoying a traditional multi-course ‘kaiseki’ dinner. (B, D)

Today, we embrace the unique charms of Shirakawa-go (UNESCO). Hidden away in the mountain, this harmonious village is famous for its gassho-zukuri-style houses – thatched-rooftops designed to resemble two hands joined in prayer. We journey to Kanazawa, the origin of gold-leaf making since the 16th century. We visit the Geisha quarters of Kanazawa and the Higashi Tea district. More than 25 acres of absolute beauty awaits us at , Kenroku-En – Garden of Six Qualities, Japan’s most stunning gardens. We check into our hotel for a two night stay in Kanazawa. (B)

We visit the Samurai district where we enter the former home of the Nomuras, a wealthy samurai family who served the ruling Maeda family. We dive into the ancient craft of gold leaf making during a hands-on lesson in decorating your own lacquer box! In the center of town, we take in the action of the Omicho fish market before venturing out on our own to immerse ourselves in Kanazawa’s dynamic culture. (B)

We explore Fushimi Inari Taisha for our tour of the most revered shrine of Inari. We follow the spectacular rows of orange torii (made famous in the movie Memoirs of a Geisha) that weave through the forest, leading us to the inner shrine. Then we visit Kyoto, the former Imperial capital of Japan. One of the nation’s top cosmopolitan cities, Kyoto’s connection with its past is strong with its 2,000 temples and shrines. Later, we visit the Women’s Association of Kyoto in a traditional Kyoto town house. Guided by your knowledgeable hostess, we delve into a wide array of enlightening Japanese activities. Try your hand at making sushi and folding intricate origami shapes as we learn about Japan, its culture, and women’s roles in this complex society. We overnight in Kyoto for three nights. (B, D)

We board the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, we take a ferry for a short trip to the Miyajima Island, or “Shrine Island” (UNESCO). Afterwards, we head into Hiroshima city to visit the Peace Memorial Park and pause to see the ruined Atomic Dome (UNESCO). Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. As our long and moving day nears its end, we return to Kyoto by the Shinkansen bullet train. (B)

This morning, we visit Kinkaku-ji (UNESCO), the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple with the two floors completely covered in gold leaf. Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure. (B)

Today, we visit the home of the first Shogun, Nijo Castle (UNESCO), and see intricate woodcarvings, wall paintings, and the Ninomaru Garden. Next, we learn about the ancient craft of stenciling during our hands-on lesson. This afternoon, you may choose to relax or explore Kyoto on our own. Tonight, we immerse ourselves in Japanese culture during a special farewell dinner and maiko show, showcasing Japan’s fascinating history. These young performers work hard to preserve Japan’s traditions and customs, creating a dream-like world that feels detached from the daily grind for visitors. (B, D)

Our fascinating journey ends as we depart Japan with memories of its beauty, rich history, and culture. (B)