Captivating, inventive, and captivatingly diverse, Japan captures the hearts of avid travellers with Tauck… where resplendent temples and shimmering skyscrapers command the streets imbued with rich heritage and tradition.
Embark on a journey to uncover Japan’s rich customs and aesthetics. Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, exploring Hakone and the “Japanese Alps." Experience tea ceremonies, castles, temples, and gardens. Stay at a ryokan, learn sushi-making, cruise Lake Ashi, and enjoy captivating performances. Join us for an unforgettable expedition through Japan’s wonders.
Highlights
- EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK: In Kyoto, enjoy a private home visit with tea ceremony & Origami demonstration, explorations with a local Geisha expert, visits to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji Temple & Pure Water Temple (Kiyomizu Temple)
- Multiple-night stays in premier hotels in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone & at a hot springs resort & spa in Matsumoto
- Tokyo's Edo-Tokyo Museum, Kagura dancing, taiko drums & sumo wrestling
- A cruise on Lake Ashi beneath Mt. Fuji
- In Hakone, visit an open-air museum and attend a flower arranging class
- A lesson on sake brewing & a tasting at a local brewery in Takayama
- A guided tour of Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan's most revered landscaped gardens, and the Samurai legacy in Kanazawa
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
- 30 meals; gratuities to local guides, service charges, admission fees, taxes and porterage
Itinerary
Check out other Japan Land Tours
Day
Destination
Arrival
Departure
Experience Tokyo's vibrant blend of history and modernity with a drive through the city, visit the iconic Asakusa Kannon Temple and bustling Nakamise Street, savor lunch at the renowned Nobu, enjoy an exclusive taiko drumming performance, and have the freedom to explore the city and discover local dining options at your leisure.
Immerse yourself in Japan's capital city with visits to Meiji Shrine, a captivating Shinto music and Kagura dancing performance, exploration of Tsukiji Market, a stroll through the renowned Ginza shopping district, and ample free time to further discover Tokyo's wonders.
Experience the thrill of the bullet train as you journey from Tokyo to Hakone, where you'll cruise Lake Ashi for stunning views of Mt. Fuji, indulge in a local restaurant for lunch, explore the Hakone Open Air Museum, partake in a private sushi and miso making demonstration, and relish a delightful dinner at your spa resort.
Explore the Itchiku Kubota Museum, showcasing the renowned artist's exceptional kimono creations, against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, followed by a free afternoon at the hotel. In the evening, immerse yourself in the ancient art of ikebana with a teacher's demonstration and class, concluding with a delightful dinner offering Western or Japanese cuisine at the resort.
Embark on a scenic journey through the "Japanese Alps," visit Matsumoto Castle, and arrive at an onsen hotel for a Tauck Exclusive Japanese kaiseki dinner in a private room with musical entertainment.
Travel from Matsumoto to Takayama, known for its artisans and woodworkers, explore the historic center, savor lunch featuring Hida beef, learn about sake making with a tasting, and journey onwards to Kanazawa for an included dinner at your hotel's restaurant.
Explore Kanazawa's Samurai District, Kenroku-en Gardens, and Omicho Market, with a private Samurai show in the evening, followed by free time to enjoy your hotel or explore the city.
Travel from Kanazawa to Hiroshima via train, enjoy an overnight stay, visit Miyajima Island with its iconic floating shrine, and indulge in dinner at a local restaurant.
Explore Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park & Museum, A-Bomb Dome, and Orizuru Tower, followed by lunch and a bullet train journey to Kyoto for a free evening.
Discover Kyoto's iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple and Nijo Castle, enjoy a geisha district exploration with an expert, and have the evening at leisure.
Experience the sacred Kiyomizudera Temple, immerse in Japanese culture with a private tea ceremony and Origami lesson in a local home, and savor a farewell reception and dinner to conclude your day in Kyoto.
Conclude the tour in Kyoto with a transfer from Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto to the airport for your return flight.
Departures & Rates
Here’s the rates for Essence of Japan 2027.
Important Terms
- Cancellation penalties for land tours apply as follows: 60 days or more before departure = Loss of Deposit. 8 days before departure = 25% total cost of tour. 7 days or less before departure = 50% of total cost of tour
- Cancellation penalties for Cruises & Train Tours: 120 days or more before departure = Loss of Deposit. 60 days before departure = Loss of 50% of tour cost, not including air (if applicable). 59-1 day before departure = Loss of 100% of tour cost, not including air (if applicable)
*Rates are subject to availability and seasonality and may change without notice. Rates are based on two adults sharing. For solo travellers or single person occupancy rates or further information on terms and conditions, please contact our Travel Specialists at time of booking.
Accommodation
The Essence of Japan 2027 journey features a mix of luxury hotels, traditional Japanese ryokan stays, and relaxing spa resorts throughout Japan.
Shangri-La Tokyo (Nights 1–3)
A luxury hotel in central Tokyo offering elegant accommodations, exceptional dining, and panoramic city views.
Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa (Nights 4–5)
A peaceful mountain retreat in Hakone known for its spa facilities, hot springs, and scenic surroundings near Mt. Fuji.
Gero Onsen Yunoshimakan (Night 6)
A traditional Japanese ryokan experience featuring onsen hot springs, tatami-style rooms, yukata robes, and authentic hospitality.
Hyatt Centric Kanazawa (Nights 7–8)
A modern hotel conveniently located near Kanazawa Station with easy access to the city’s historic districts and gardens.
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto (Nights 9–12)
A five-star luxury hotel centered around an 800-year-old pond garden, blending refined Japanese aesthetics with world-class service.
