8-Nights Japan’s Golden Route — CALL

This vacation begins in Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital. A vibrant metropolis where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovations. From landmark Tokyo Skytree to the historic streets of Yanaka, Tokyo offers a dynamic fusion of culture, cuisine, and entertainment. Explore Senso-ji historic temple, Meiji Jingu shrine and trendy Harajuku neighborhood, all in the same day. Visit busy Tsukiji market where the long lines of gourmands waiting patiently for specialty foods are part of the fun. Still hungry? Opt to add a sushi-making class to learn the art of creating nigiri sushi, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Next, visit Hakone, a tranquil mountain lake retreat renowned for its natural beauty and therapeutic hot springs. Visitors can cruise across Lake Ashi, marveling at Mount Fuji's reflection, or ascend to Owakudani to witness volcanic activity and savor black eggs boiled in sulfuric hot springs. Riding the zig-zag railway and ropeway up to Gora to visit the open-air museum is recommended.

Hakone's picturesque landscapes offer a complete contrast to Tokyo. Your accommodation here is in a traditional Japanese Inn called a ryokan, offering an immersive cultural experience steeped in hospitality and tranquility. Guests are welcomed into serene tatami-matted rooms adorned with minimalist decor and sliding shoji doors. At dinner, indulge in kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course feast highlighting seasonal delicacies, followed by a relaxing soak in the communal hot spring baths, known as onsens. Sleeping on futon bedding laid out on tatami floors, guests awaken to the peaceful ambiance of the inn, rejuvenated and immersed in the timeless traditions of Japanese hospitality.

Travel by bullet train to Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital. From historic landmarks to scenic landscapes, Kyoto's timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage enchant visitors, offering a profound journey into Japan's past. Home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, including the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto exudes a serene ambiance. Stroll through historic districts like Gion, where trainee geisha gracefully glide through cobblestone streets. Discover the beauty of Japanese gardens at Arashiyama or savor traditional tea ceremonies in tranquil tea houses. Plan a visit to Nishiki market at lunchtime and choose from a wide array of tantalizing foods on offer. Buy a high quality Japanese knife and have your name engraved on the blade – the perfect souvenir.

In Nara, Japan's first capital, you’ll find a treasure trove of history and culture. Renowned for its ancient temples, including the majestic Todai-ji with its colossal Great Buddha statue, Nara Park offers tranquil strolls amidst friendly deer. Explore the picturesque streets of Naramachi, lined with traditional machiya houses, and sample local delicacies like mochi and sake. Nara's serene ambiance, rich heritage, and natural beauty make it a captivating destination, perfect for immersing oneself in Japan's timeless traditions.

At the conclusion of this itinerary, you can choose to overnight in either Tokyo or, if you are departing from Kansai Airport, in Osaka.