Day 0: International Flight Date

Your international flight is not included in your tour package.

Note: Japan is 16 to 17 hours ahead of US Pacific Time. Most international flights are 11–13 hours and cross the International Dateline, so plan accordingly to arrive on Day 1. Most flights arrive Narita International Airport (NRT).

Day 2: Exploring Tokyo

Today's Adventure: Icons of Tokyo

Begin your day with a stroll through Ueno Park, where the cherry blossoms form a soft pink canopy above tranquil pathways. Visit the sacred Meiji Shrine, nestled in a tranquil forest glade, then explore Harajuku and Shibuya — Tokyo’s colorful, fashion-forward neighborhoods.

The evening is yours to explore or join your Tour Captain for an optional dinner in one of Tokyo's hidden gem eateries.

Day 3: Into the Mountains of Hakone

Today's Adventure: Mountain Exploring
Depart the city via the renowned Shinkansen bullet train, gliding into the foothills of Hakone. Here, nature and art harmonize in one of Japan's beloved onsen regions. Cruise the placid waters of Lake Ashi, take in the red torii gate of Hakone Shrine, and wander the inspiring Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Welcome Dinner
Tonight, experience a traditional ryokan stay, complete with a multi-course kaiseki dinner.

Lake Ashi with Mt. Fuji in Background

Where We Stay in Hakone, 2 Nights
Hakone Kowakien Tenyu or Similar

About our Ryokan
Welcome to Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, a true sanctuary facing magnificent mountain in Hakone, away from your bustling city life. The concept of our ryokan is the harmony of authentic Japanese hospitality and the nature. You can watch the sunrising sky while bathing in our enormous open-air onsen with infinite horizon view. In addition, all rooms come with its own private open-air bath. In the evening, get excited for the beautifully presented delicious Japanese cuisine at your table. Enjoy the heavenly experience of the true Japanese service throughout your stay.

NOTE: Ryokans are the traditional Japanese accommodation with minimalistic 'tatami' mat rooms. We will trade in our regular shoes and clothes for a 'yukata,' a Japanese-style robe and slippers. Our beds will be traditional Japanese futons — which despite common misconceptions, many guests describe the Japanese futons as surprisingly soft, cushy, and comparable in comfort to Western mattresses.

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Day 4: Hakone - Day at Leisure

Today, enjoy a complete day at leisure. Enjoy an optional traditional Japanese onsen experience, where you can relax in natural mineral-rich hot springs and embrace centuries-old wellness rituals.

NOTE: A reservation is required and is available optionally — inquire with your Now Journey Trip Specialist.

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Day 6: Kanazawa

Today's Adventure: Higashi Explorer

We will explore the charming Higashi Chaya district, stroll through the exquisite Kenroku-en Garden — ranked among Japan’s finest — and walk the quiet lanes of the Nagamachi Samurai District, lined with preserved residences and earthen walls.

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Day 7: Kanazawa Culture & Onward to Hiroshima

Today, we travel to Hiroshima. After arrival and hotel check-in, enjoy a peaceful evening at your leisure or join your Tour Captain for an optional waterfront dinner.

Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a dinner with the Tour Captain tonight.

Where We Stay in Hiroshima, 2 Nights
Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel or Similar

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Day 8: Hiroshima – Legacy

Hiroshima Castle

Today's Adventure: Peace Park

Today, visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum — a moving tribute to resilience and renewal. Walk the grounds of the Atomic Bomb Dome and hear stories of hope and humanity.

As evening settles, consider gathering for an optional dinner with the Tour Captain.

 

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Day 9: To Kyoto – Heart of Tradition

Kiyomizu Temple

Return to the rails and journey onward to Kyoto, Japan's ancient imperial capital.

After check-in, enjoy a leisurely walk through Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district, where wooden machiya houses and lantern-lit streets reflect timeless elegance. As twilight falls, savor a welcome dinner highlighting Kyoto's refined flavors and seasonal ingredients.

Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a dinner with the Tour Captain tonight in the heart of Kyoto.

Where We Stay in Kyoto, 3 Nights
Hyatt Regency Kyoto or Similar

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Day 10: Path of Philosophy & Kyoto's Gardens

Gardens around Kyoto

Today's Adventure: Kyoto Explorer

Today is a celebration of Kyoto's tranquil beauty. Follow the Philosopher’s Path beneath blooming cherry trees, visit the minimalist Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), and explore the grand Heian Shrine.

The evening invites optional exploration or an optional dinner with your Tour Captain.

 

 

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Day 11: Arashiyama's Bamboo & Temple Serenity

Temple in Kyoto

Today's Adventure: Kyoto Discovery

Escape to Kyoto's western hills and the enchanting district of Arashiyama. Walk the whispering Bamboo Grove, visit the Zen gardens of Tenryu-ji Temple, and consider optional visits to the Iwatayama Monkey Park or a scenic train ride through Sagano. A curated blend of nature and tradition, this day offers space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect.

Farewell Dinner
Tonight join your Tour Captain for our included 'Farewell to Japan dinner. Our days have been filled with new sights, tastes and discoveries - tonight enjoy reflecting on the incredible journey we've had together. It has been a Journey of Adventure and Discovery, along with making new friends.

 

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Day 12 - Homeward Bound: Sayonara!

Depart Kyoto with a heart full of memories and a camera full of beauty. Transfers are available Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Until next time — さようなら ("Sayonara") and safe travels.

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