Visions of Japan
Visions of Japan
Visions of Japan
11 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Kyoto, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara
Tour operator:
Tour code:
OP-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan with the "Visions of Japan" tour, a cultural exploration of this fascinating country. Begin in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, where you'll experience the serenity of Meiji Shrine and the breathtaking views from Tokyo Skytree. Discover the iconic Mount Fuji and enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi. Immerse yourself in Japanese tradition with a calligraphy lesson, a tea ceremony, and a visit to a wasabi farm. Explore the historic streets of Takayama, the unique Gassho-Zukuri houses in Shirakawa, and the tranquil Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa. In Kyoto, marvel at the golden Kinkakuji and participate in a traditional cooking class. Conclude your adventure with visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kasuga Shrine and Todaiji Temple in Nara. With expert guides and small group sizes, this tour offers an intimate and enriching experience of Japan's cultural treasures.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Tokyo,Japan
Location: Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s capital city. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.
Day 2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
TOKYO Monumental Metropolis Start with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. At an artist’s studio, learn to write like a local during a calligraphy lesson with a master calligrapher, have the opportunity to try on a traditional kimono, and partake in a [LF] tea ceremony. After lunch, visit the Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower. Last stop is the Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise shopping arcade. Tonight, join your travel companions at a welcome dinner hosted by your Tour Director. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITEPLANNED TO A TEA Participate in a tea ceremony, the ancient tradition and carefully choreographed ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea.TOUR HIGHLIGHTSKY HIGH At Tokyo Skytree, ascend to Sorakara Point. On floor 450 at some 450 meters or 1500 feet, it is the highest point visitors can explore. Here you’ll have stunning panoramic views over the city and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji.
Day 3: Tokyo. Mount Fuji Excursion
Location: Mount Fuji
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
TOKYO. MOUNT FUJI EXCURSION Soaring Heights & Sweeping Sights From a drive to Kamakura to dizzying views of Mount Fuji to a cruise on Lake Ashi, your day is a feast for the eyes. Conclude the day with a thrilling shinkansen (bullet train) ride back to Tokyo! (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SCENIC SIGHTS Drive south along the coast to Kamakura to see the 750-year-old Great Buddha. Continue to Hakone where you’ll take a cable-car ride for panoramic views of spectacular Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain. After lunch, cruise on Lake Ashi for more views of this beautiful area.
Day 4: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast
TOKYO Tokyo to Go Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore the city. (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE Tokyo has something for everyone so visit one of the city’s unique neighborhoods like Ginza or Shibuya districts, dine at the street food markets, or catch a game at the Tokyo Dome.
Day 5: Tokyo,Matsumoto,Takayama
Location: Matsumoto
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
TOKYO–MATSUMOTO–TAKAYAMA City to Farm to Table Journey to Matsumoto, gateway to the ruggedly beautiful Japanese Alps. Visit a local wasabi farm and Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure of Japan dating back to the 16th Century. Tonight, enjoy a wonderful Japanese-style dinner at your hotel. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTWHY WASABI? Take a private tour of a wasabi farm to learn more about how it’s grown and the importance of wasabi in Japanese culture and cuisine. Eat lunch at the farm and sample wasabi ice cream.
Day 6: Takayama
Location: Takayama
Meals Included: Breakfast
TAKAYAMA Takayama Treasures Today begins at the morning market, where farmers display locally grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Visit Takayama Jinya, a former government office during the Edo Period from 1692-1868. This well-preserved building is a national historic site and the only remaining building of its kind in Japan. End with a fun [LF] sake tasting. This evening, you have the option to stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan (additional fee and pre-booking required). (B)LOCAL FAVORITEFOR SAKE’S SAKE Go sake tasting in the San-Machi Suji historic district—famous for lacquerware shops and sake breweries, and identified by the “sugidama,” balls made of cedar branches that adorn the entrances. FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE After included sightseeing, the balance of the day is at leisure, providing you with time to explore the narrow streets where merchants buy and sell as they have for 300 years. Transfers between town and your resort will run every two hours.ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTChoose an overnight stay at a ryokan to fully immerse yourself in the Japanese culture and hospitality. Your ryokan features traditional touches like tatami mat floors, a thin sleeping mattress, and the chance to experience a Japanese-style bath – as well as the modern convenience of a private bathroom. Traditional Japanese dinner and breakfast are included in your stay. Please note that space is limited. Pre-booking and additional fee required.
Day 7: Takayama,Shirakawa,Kanazawa
Location: Kanazawa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
TAKAYAMA–SHIRAKAWA–KANAZAWA Enchanting Valleys & Tranquil Gardens This morning, enjoy a drive through the mountainous Shokawa Valley to Shirakawa; a remote region of Japan home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here explore the unique Gassho-Zukuri style (joined hands) thatched houses that can be found only here. Continue to the scenic town of Kanazawa, situated between the mountains and the Sea of Japan. Explore Kenroku-en Garden and take part in a gold leaf class, where you’ll learn about this ancient craft and make your own bento box. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTTHE POWER OF TRANQUILITY Kenroku-en is one of Japan’s three great gardens and dates from the 1670s. Translated to English the name means “Garden of Six Qualities,” referring to the six essential attributes that make up a perfect garden: spaciousness, tranquility, artifice, antiquity, water, and magnificent views. One of the garden’s most stunning attractions is Kasumigaike pond with its island called Horai, which is meant to symbolize long life and eternal prosperity.
Day 8: Kanazawa,Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
KANAZAWA–KYOTO Sushi, Shrines & Temples This morning, drive south to Kyoto. On arrival, participate in a [LF] Japanese cooking class for lunch. Then, you’ll visit two of the city’s most important sites: Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITECULTURAL TREASURES Japan is known for its cuisine, which is deeply engrained into the culture. What better way to gain insights into the local way of life than through your generations of traditional dishes? Participate in a special cooking class under the instruction of a local chef to learn how to make miso soup, teriyaki chicken, and makizushi, more commonly known as a sushi roll.TOUR HIGHLIGHTSENSATIONAL SHRINES While in Kyoto one must take a step back in time to explore this historic former capital and its important wooden shrines and temples. Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for the thousands of brightly hued Torii Gates. Afterward, continue to the Higashiyama District to visit Kiyomizu Temple, the “Pure Water Temple,” with stunning views over Kyoto. Along the way, walk through the busy streets, where shops and restaurants have been catering to pilgrims for centuries.
Day 9: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast
KYOTO Golden Gift This morning starts with a visit to stunning Kinkakuji, the Temple of the Gold Pavilion. Next, visit Yuzen Handmade Corner to learn about the Yuzen dyeing technique used to decorate kimonos by painting dye directly on the cloth. Make your own souvenir using this traditional method. End the day at Sanjusajendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Flanking the main statue are 1,000 more life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf, with 40 arms believed to have the power to save 25 worlds! (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE Join your Tour Director for a walking tour through Gion or visit more of Kyoto’s historic temples. This and many more options throughout your tour may be available for purchase with MyGlobus.
Day 10: Kyoto,Nara Excursion
Location: Nara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
KYOTO–NARA EXCURSION Larger than Life Travel to nearby Nara to visit Kasuga Shrine and Todaiji Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Japan. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHTNARA GIANTS Travel to Nara Park, one of the largest in Japan, and famous for its free-roaming deer amid its shrines and temples. Kasuga Shrine, the most celebrated in Nara, is a Shinto shrine with some 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns. On the opposite end of the park is Todaiji Temple, one of Japan’s most significant temples. Originally built in 752 AD and again after a fire in 1692, the temple is only two-thirds its original size yet remains one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. The Daibutsu (Giant Buddha) inside the main hall is made of copper and bronze, weighs 250 tons and is 49 feet tall.
Day 11: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in Tokyo, Takayama, Kanazawa, and Kyoto.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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Excursions
Excursions to Mount Fuji, Matsumoto Castle, Shirakawa, Kenroku-en Garden, Kinkakuji, and Sanjusajendo Temple.
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Transportation
Transportation including a thrilling shinkansen (bullet train) ride.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Kasuga Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, Mount Fuji, Shirakawa (Gassho-Zukuri houses), and Todaiji Temple.
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Small Group Discoveries
Small-Group Discoveries limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from Japan are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and related expenses are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 3 dinners
UNESCO Sites
Kasuga Shrine|Kiyomizu Temple|Mount Fuji|Shirakawa (Gassho-Zukuri houses)|Temple of the Gold Pavilion|Todaiji Temple
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Hilton Tokyo, Hotel Associa Takayama Resort, Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, and The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional Japanese hospitality throughout your journey in Japan.
Mode of Transport
Experience seamless travel with transportation including a thrilling shinkansen (bullet train) ride, ensuring a fast and efficient journey across Japan's stunning landscapes.
Notes
Mount Fuji cable-car ride is dependent upon weather conditions. Optional overnight stay at a traditional ryokan requires pre-booking with additional fee.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a calligraphy lesson with a master calligrapher, a traditional kimono experience, a tea ceremony, a sake tasting in Takayama, and a Japanese cooking class in Kyoto where you can learn to make miso soup, teriyaki chicken, and sushi rolls.
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Are there any special accommodations available during the tour?
Yes, there is an optional overnight stay at a traditional Japanese ryokan in Takayama, which requires pre-booking and an additional fee. The ryokan offers traditional touches like tatami mat floors and a Japanese-style bath.
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What are some of the highlights of the Mount Fuji excursion?
The Mount Fuji excursion includes a drive to Kamakura to see the Great Buddha, a cable-car ride for panoramic views of Mount Fuji, and a cruise on Lake Ashi. The day concludes with a thrilling shinkansen (bullet train) ride back to Tokyo.
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What is the significance of the Kenroku-en Garden visit in Kanazawa?
Kenroku-en Garden is one of Japan's three great gardens, dating from the 1670s. It is known for its six essential attributes that make up a perfect garden: spaciousness, tranquility, artifice, antiquity, water, and magnificent views. The garden features Kasumigaike pond with its island, symbolizing long life and eternal prosperity.
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What can I expect from the visit to the Kinkakuji in Kyoto?
During the visit to Kinkakuji, the Temple of the Gold Pavilion, you will see its stunning architecture and learn about the Yuzen dyeing technique used to decorate kimonos. You will also have the opportunity to make your own souvenir using this traditional method.
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What is included in the Nara excursion?
The Nara excursion includes visits to Kasuga Shrine and Todaiji Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara Park is famous for its free-roaming deer and the Daibutsu (Giant Buddha) inside Todaiji Temple, which is one of the world's largest wooden buildings.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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