JOURNEY TO JAPAN

Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

Step into a sanctuary of modern elegance, embraced by the timeless beauty of an 800-year-old pond garden. Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, recognized as one of the world’s finest, unveils Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry from its serene Higashiyama setting. Each season paints a captivating new scene, inviting you to experience traditional rituals, rejuvenating wellness, and exquisite culinary journeys. Discover the city’s vibrant history, woven seamlessly with the refined luxury and personalized service that defines Four Seasons.

You will be staying in the Four Seasons for the first three nights of your journey.

Day 2 – Kiyomizudera Temple, Nishiki Market and Nijo Castle

Step into Kyoto’s past along the ancient paths of Ninenzaka or Sanneizaka, where traditional stone-paved streets wind past historic buildings and quaint shops. These avenues lead to the revered Kiyomizu-dera Temple, boasting over 1200 years of Buddhist history and honored as a Historic Monument of Ancient Kyoto and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Experience the profound tainai meguri ritual at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a spiritual journey symbolizing rebirth.

Stroll back from Kiyomizu-dera, pausing to sample Kyoto’s culinary delights at the nearby food stalls and shops (food at own expense).

Witness the captivating hole-crawling ritual at Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, and join in if you wish.

Recharge with lunch (lunch at own expense) at Nishiki Market, a bustling hub of Kyoto’s culinary and cultural heritage.

Explore the grandeur of Nijo Castle, built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period.

Conclude your day with a leisurely dinner (dinner at own expense), savoring Kyoto’s culinary offerings at your own pace.

Day 3 – Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji Golden Temple

Arashiyama is a district on the eastern outskirts of Kyoto City featuring historical sites as well as natural scenery. The central area near the train stations are pleasantly touristy, while areas further afield exude tranquil rural charm. Enjoy a 4-hour private guided tour by top local experts of temples and cultural sites in the Arashiyama area, including both famous sights like Arashiyama bamboo grove, as well as off-the-beaten-path locations.

Savor a leisurely lunch (lunch on own expense) in Arashiyama before being swept away via private charter to Kinkaku-ji Temple. Step into a fairytale as the famed Golden Pavilion reflects its radiant beauty in the still waters of its pond. Explore the temple’s hidden corners, each one a testament to Japan’s unparalleled artistry.

Return to the Four Seasons for an arranged French dinner at a restaurant located within your hotel.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Day 4 – Kyoto – Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Free time

Travel by private charter vehicle to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in the predawn darkness. Hike the torii-gate covered shrine path as the sun rises with your guide (takes 2-3 hours depending on fitness and how many photo stops you take). Not only is the atmosphere of the shrine at its most mystical this early in the morning, it’s also the best way to avoid the crowds that swarm here later in the day.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Ride the private charter vehicle back to hotel where you will enjoy breakfast and a time of leisure.

Spend the rest of the day freely exploring Kyoto, taking in the sights of most interest to you!

A few of the places we recommend:

• Gion
• Nijō Castle
• Nishiki Market

Day 5 – Kyoto to Kanazawa – Samurai Story: Visit a samurai district and view traditional Japanese garden and archery.

Check out of the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto and board the limited express train to Kanazawa where you will meet your guides for the day.

Walk with warriors: Explore the secrets of Nagamachi, a historical preserved samurai district whispering tales of valor. Let your guide unveil the history etched in cobblestone streets and stoic residences, their imposing gates hinting at battles long fought. Enjoy a Japanese lunch to match the ambience of the nearby traditional district and discuss the awe-inspired start to your day. (Lunch on own expense)

This afternoon enjoy Kenrokuen garden – a spacious and refined garden of the Maeda clan that is counted among the Three Gardens of Japan – and a Kyodo experience – an introduction to Japanese archery, culminating in target practice with real arrows.

Check into the Kanazawa Chaya Ryokan, a specialty cuisine ryokan, and enjoy a gorgeous dinner.

Kanazawa Chaya Ryokan

Imagine a haven of tatami mats, where fragrant tatami scents mingle with the gentle gurgle of a koi pond. This is the world of the ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn steeped in history and elegance.

Kanazawa Chaya, nestled heartbeats from JR Kanazawa Station, isn’t just any ryokan. It’s an oasis for the senses, where Kagaya Group’s renowned hospitality blends seamlessly with exquisite Kaiseki cuisine, transforming every meal into a culinary masterpiece.

Slide open shoji screens to reveal serene gardens, inviting you to sip fragrant green tea amidst the whispers of nature. Kanazawa Chaya is your gateway to the soul of Japan, and where you will stay for the next two nights.

Day 6 – Kanazawa – Samurai story: Kendo swordsmanship and samurai swords

Awaken and meet your guides for the day.

Today you will participate in a Kendo experience which will introduce you to kendo swordsmanship, culminating in a friendly duel between student and teacher. You will also be privileged with the introduction to the descendant of a samurai family for a private showing of his family’s samurai swords.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch (lunch on own expense) and stroll through the iconic samurai-era entertainment district, Higashi Chaya. Higashi Chaya is one of the best-preserved samurai-era entertainment districts in Japan.

Enjoy dinner (dinner at own expense) in the center of Kanazawa, which borders the Sea of Japan, allowing for high-quality seafood culinary adventures.

Day 7 – Kanazawa to Tokyo. Samurai story: Old Tokyo and Sumo

Get a glimpse of what Tokyo was like in the past samurai era by visiting both famous historical sites which have been preserved as well as everyday neighborhoods that time seems simply to have forgotten.

Check out of the Ryokan and ride the shinkansen bullet train from Kanazawa to Tokyo.

Meet your guide and exit Tokyo Station via the Marunouchi side, stopping to admire the station’s historical architecture as you exit. You will then be escorted to lunch and an esteemed sumo show. Watch a sumo performance by former competitive sumo wrestlers over a lunch of chanko nabe, the breakfast staple of professional sumo wrestlers. If you are lucky and raise your hand fast enough, you can also be one of the volunteers who gets to dress in a padded suit for a “fight” in the ring with a real sumo wrestler.

Next, there will be time to grab a coffee or tea (on own expense) as you make your way to the Imperial Palace – the main residence of the Emperor of Japan – for a stroll around the outer moat.

Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Japan

You will then board the train to Asakusa and sightsee until dinner. Being centered around this important and historic temple, the Asakusa neighborhood strives to retain an Edo-esque atmosphere even as it modernizes. Along your walk to the temple, appreciate the contrast of old and new Tokyo by gazing across the Sumida River at some outlandish architecture in the Oshiage area. Here you will have special access into the Asakusa Shrine and take part in a shinto ritual with the priests and priestesses of the shrine. Following this you will see the mikoshi portable shrines that are normally only viewable once a year during the Sanja Festival of Asakusa in the shrines’ storage rooms.

After a thrilling afternoon, part with your guide and return back to your hotel and have an arranged dinner at the luxurious Peninsula Hotel Tokyo.

Stepping into your suite at the Peninsula Hotel Tokyo is like entering a serene sanctuary. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking cityscapes, while soft tatami mats and delicate shoji screens invite you to slow down and savor the stillness. Luxurious details like a deep soaking tub and plush kimonos await, pampering you from the inside out.

The Peninsula service is legendary, and Tokyo takes it to another level. A dedicated Peninsula page anticipates your every whim. No request is too small, no wish unfulfilled.

Day 8: New Tokyo

Immerse yourself in the dynamic pulse of modern-day Tokyo with a full day of exploration, starting with a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Join your guide for a captivating walking tour, beginning in Shibuya, where you’ll witness the iconic Shibuya Scramble street crossing at its busiest, pay homage to the loyal Hachiko statue, indulge in a visit to the Kit Kat Chocolatory, and more. Enjoy a leisurely lunch (at your own expense) in this trendy area, with our expert suggestions at your disposal.

Afterwards, hop on a train as your guide escorts you to the mesmerizing digital art museum of TeamLab Borderless in Azabudai, where you’ll immerse yourself in cutting-edge modern art.

As evening falls, relish the freedom to dine at your leisure before diving into Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife. We recommend capping off the day with a quintessential “new Japan” experience—singing your heart out in a karaoke box near your hotel (on own expense) .

Shibuya Scramble street crossing

TeamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum

Day 9: Traditional Japan

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide for a transfer to Meiji Shrine via local train. Wander through the tranquil forested paths of Meiji Shrine, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the bustling Tokyo metropolis.

Free choice of lunch venue (lunch at own expense).

Experience the rhythmic pulse of Japanese culture with a transfer to Aoyama for a taiko drumming workshop conducted in English, delving into the rich history and significance of these iconic drums.

Cap off your day with a transfer to a high-class restaurant, where you’ll dine on a sumptuous course meal while being mesmerized by a traditional Japanese stage performance inspired by classical Japanese dance-drama—a captivating fusion of culinary and cultural delights.

Day 10: Ginza and Roppongi

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before rendezvousing with your guide for a transfer to Ginza, where you’ll embark on a captivating tour showcasing the rich history and architectural marvels of this renowned high-end shopping district. Delight in a delectable lunch amidst the elegance of Ginza.

Continue your exploration with a tour of Roppongi, featuring highlights such as the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo Midtown, immersing yourself in the vibrant art and culture of the city. Bid farewell to your guide as you venture off on your own.

Indulge in a dinner of your choice in Roppongi, savoring the culinary delights of this dynamic neighborhood.

Day 11 – Tokyo – Sayonara Japan

Shop for souvenirs in the basement stores of Tokyo Station and soak up the last views of Tokyo before transferring to Haneda airport via charter vehicle to head home, dreaming of the surreal experiences you just lived.

Optional Post-Trip: Journey on to Yamagata

Yamagata, nestled in the heart of Japan’s Tohoku region, captivates visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and renowned seasonal festivals.