Japan in Bloom - 14 days
14 Days Starting and ending in Tokyo, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hakone
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 14
Age range:
6-
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through Japan, experiencing the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes during the enchanting cherry blossom season. Begin in Tokyo, exploring iconic districts and serene gardens, before venturing into the Japanese Alps to visit the historic "Black Crow" castle in Matsumoto. Discover the traditional crafts and hot springs of Takayama, and wander the preserved streets of Kanazawa. In Kyoto, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage with guided tours and a private tea ceremony with a maiko. Enjoy the stunning views of Mount Fuji from Hakone, and explore its open-air museum and hot springs. Conclude your adventure back in Tokyo, with time for last-minute shopping and sightseeing. This small group tour includes comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and transportation, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1-3: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Gracery Asakusa Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
On arrival in Tokyo, you will be greeted at the airport by our driver. You will then travel by shared shuttle bus to our hotel in the Asakusa district, where your tour leader will be waiting in the lobby to meet you. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the market stalls and stunning Senso-ji temple. In the evening, there will be a welcome meeting followed by a group meal at a local restaurant.
On day 2, our tour leader will take you on an extensive tour of Tokyo. We visit various areas, such as the traditional Asakusa and the modern Shinjuku. We also explore areas like Akihabara and Ginza, and relax in the beautiful Hamarikyu Gardens. The day will end with a visit to Harajuku and Meiji Jingu shrine on the west side of the city.
Day 3 is at leisure to continue exploring Tokyo or take a day trip to Nikko or Kamakura. Nikko is known for its elaborate temple complex and historical significance, while Kamakura is a charming seaside city famous for its giant Buddha statue.
Accommodation: Gracery Asakusa Hotel or similar
Day 4: Matsumoto
Location: Matsumoto
Accommodation Name: Marunouchi Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tokyo - Matsumoto. Embark on a journey into the Japanese Alps, stopping for the night in Matsumoto. The city is renowned for its historic "Black Crow" samurai castle, which you can choose to visit. This castle is one of the few original samurai castles still standing in Japan, offering visitors the chance to explore the main keep and museum. For dinner, we suggest trying the regional specialty of soba noodles or, if you're feeling daring, sampling some basashi - raw horse meat.
Accommodation: Marunouchi Hotel or similar
Day 5-6: Takayama
Location: Takayama
Accommodation Name: Tanabe Ryokan or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Matsumoto - Takayama. On day 5 we complete our journey through the Alps to Takayama, a mountain town known for its skilled craftsmen who have contributed to the construction of important temples and shrines in Kyoto. Take time to explore Takayama's old-town district, where you can browse craft shops and enjoy sake-tasting at local breweries. In the evening, return to our traditional ryokan for a delicious kaiseki dinner served Japanese-style. Don't miss the opportunity to relax in the ryokan's hot spring baths before bed.
On day 6, a local guide will lead us through the historic town, starting with a visit to the lively morning market. Explore the Hida no Sato folk village, showcasing traditional thatched farmhouses and offering insight into pre-industrial Japanese mountain life. Dinner is on your own tonight, so be sure to sample the delicious Hida beef, a regional specialty.
Accommodation: Tanabe Ryokan or similar
Day 7: Kanazawa
Location: Kanazawa
Accommodation Name: Mitsui Garden Kanazawa or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Takayama - Kanazawa. Today we leave the mountains to spend a day in Kanazawa on the Japan Sea Coast. Travelling by private coach, we pass through stunning scenery on our journey. Similar to Kyoto, Kanazawa was spared from bombing during World War Two due to its historical buildings and cultural achievements, making it one of Japan's most well-preserved historical cities. Take time to wander through the geisha districts, explore Edo-period houses in the samurai quarter, sample fresh sushi from the market, and be sure not to miss Kenrokuen during your visit - it's one of Japan's most famous gardens and particularly beautiful during springtime, as the cherry blossoms burst into colour.
Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Kanazawa or similar
Day 8-10: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kanazawa - Kyoto. During our time in Kyoto, we have the chance to explore the city's numerous temples and historic sites, and enjoy the pretty sights of the city in bloom. On day 8, we visit Gion, the traditional geisha district, for a private audience with a maiko (trainee geisha), followed by a group meal at a local restaurant.
A local guide will lead us on a tour of Kyoto on day 9, showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage. We have the opportunity to visit Nijo Castle, Arashiyama bamboo groves, and witness the Geisha Odori, geisha dances in the evening.
Day 10 is free for you to further explore Kyoto or take a day trip to nearby attractions such as Nara or Himeji. Your tour leader can provide recommendations for day trips or help you make independent arrangements for the day.
Accommodation: Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi or similar
Day 11-12: Hakone
Location: Hakone
Accommodation Name: Laforet Club Hakone Gora Yunosumika or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kyoto - Hakone. We ride the bullet train to Hakone on day 11, a popular hot spring destination nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Experience the Chokoku no Mori Hakone Open-Air Museum this afternoon, showcasing works by renowned artists such as Moore, Rodin, Kusama, and Picasso against a backdrop of picturesque alpine scenery. After a day of exploration, indulge in a delectable dinner at one of Hakone's esteemed restaurants.
Day 12 is at leisure for you to immerse yourself in the various attractions Hakone has to offer. Cruise across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, delve into the history of the Checkpoint Museum, which sheds light on Hakone's past as a post town along the Tokaido trail, and enjoy unparalleled views of Mount Fuji surrounded by pink flowers and cherry blossom - weather permitting! A 3-day Hakone transport card is included in your tour.
Accommodation: Laforet Club Hakone Gora Yunosumika or similar
Day 13-14: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: JR Kyushu Blossom Shinjuku or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hakone - Tokyo. Returning to Tokyo on day 13, you have one last day to enjoy the capital city how you wish. Use this time for any last-minute shopping or to visit the 634m Skytree, explore Odaiba Island via monorail, or book a karaoke booth in Shinjuku. Dinner is not included, but we recommend going out with your tour group and leader for a final-night meal to celebrate the end of a fantastic trip.
Saying goodbye on day 14, you will be transferred back to the airport in time for your flight home.
Accommodation: JR Kyushu Blossom Shinjuku or similar
What's Included
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Accommodation
3-4 star hotels -
13 breakfasts & 4 dinners
Enjoy 13 breakfasts and 4 dinners during your tour.
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11 nights 3-4 star hotels & 2 nights ryokan in Takayama
Stay in 3-4 star hotels for 11 nights and experience 2 nights in a traditional ryokan in Takayama.
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Escorted by a tour leader
The tour is escorted by a knowledgeable tour leader.
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Arrival airport transfer on day 1 and departure transfer on day 14
Airport transfers are provided on arrival and departure days.
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All relevant transportation including by minibus, private coach and train
All necessary transportation is included, utilizing minibuses, private coaches, and trains.
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Transport card with 2,500 yen (USD $16) credit for city transport
A transport card with 2,500 yen credit is provided for city transport.
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Takayama bus pass
A bus pass for Takayama is included.
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Transfers from Takayama to Kanazawa by private coach
Private coach transfers from Takayama to Kanazawa are included.
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3-day Hakone Free Pass for transport in the Hakone region
A 3-day Hakone Free Pass is provided for transport in the Hakone region.
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Entrance to Hamarikyu Gardens in Tokyo
Entrance to the Hamarikyu Gardens in Tokyo is included.
What's Not Included
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International flights
International flights are not included in the tour package.
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Any local transport (taxis, buses, subways) unless covered by the included transport passes
Local transport such as taxis, buses, and subways are not included unless covered by the provided transport passes.
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Entrance fees (including those for temples, shrines and museums) unless otherwise specified
Entrance fees for temples, shrines, and museums are not included unless specified.
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Baggage handling & luggage forwarding unless otherwise specified
Baggage handling and luggage forwarding are not included unless specified.
Age Policy
Minimum age: 6 years, accompanied by an adult
Mode of Transport
Travel seamlessly with all relevant transportation included, such as minibus, private coach, and train. Arrival and departure airport transfers are provided, along with a transport card for city travel and a Takayama bus pass.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in 3-4 star hotels for 11 nights and experience traditional Japanese hospitality with 2 nights in a ryokan in Takayama.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is included in Takayama?
In Takayama, you will stay in a traditional ryokan, which offers a unique Japanese experience with features such as hot spring baths and kaiseki dinners.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by a tour leader, and there are local guides provided for specific locations such as Tokyo, Takayama, and Kyoto.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, arrival airport transfer on day 1 and departure transfer on day 14 are included in the tour package.
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What meals are included during the tour?
The tour includes 13 breakfasts and 4 dinners.
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What is the age policy for this tour?
The minimum age for this tour is 6 years, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
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What kind of transport is used during the tour?
The tour includes all relevant transportation by minibus, private coach, and train, as well as a transport card with 2,500 yen credit for city transport.
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Is there any luggage forwarding service provided?
Yes, luggage forwarding is provided from Tokyo to Takayama, Takayama to Kyoto, and from Kyoto to Tokyo.
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What unique experiences are included in Kyoto?
In Kyoto, you will have a private afternoon tea with a maiko (trainee geisha) and tickets to the Odori spring geisha dances.
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What is the highlight of the visit to Hakone?
In Hakone, you can enjoy the Hakone Open-Air Museum and have the opportunity to see incredible views of Mount Fuji, weather permitting.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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