10 or 13 days
Osaka, Kyoto, Takayama, Kanazawa, Tokyo, extension to Nagasaki
Japan is an island-nation of contrasts. Neon lights pulse and shine on century-old temples, monks walk alongside anime cosplayers, and Zen meditation is practiced in the same parks that people take selfies. It may sound chaotic, but Japan has perfected the balance of ancient and modern. A better understanding of Buddhism and Shinto, higher truth, or just a measure of inner peace await you on this meditative journey through the tranquil side of Japanese culture.
Day 1: Fly overnight to Japan
Day 2: Osaka
Meet your Tour Director at the airport
Day 3: Osaka • Kyoto
Walking tour of Osaka Canal Street
Travel to Kyoto
Tour Fushimi Inari Shrine
Sample traditional Japanese snacks with your Tour Director
Enjoy an evening reflection on the banks of the Kamo River
Day 4: Kyoto
Tour Kyoto with an expert local guide
Visit the Gold Pavillion
Visit Kiyomizu Temple
Sample green tea ice cream
Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum
Day 5: Kyoto • Takayama
Enjoy a Zen meditation experience
Day 6: Takayama • Kanazawa
Visit the Takayama morning market
Travel to Kanazawa
Visit the Minkaen Outdoor Museum
Day 7: Kanazawa
Visit Kanazawa Castle
Explore Kenroku-en Garden
Participate in a gold-leaf chopstick activity
Day 8: Tokyo
Travel by bullet train to Tokyo
Tour the Imperial Palace Plaza
Visit the Meiji Shinto Shrine
Visit the Harajuku shopping district
Day 9: Tokyo
Participate in a traditional tea ceremony
Walking Tour of Akihabara
Sightseeing in Tokyo
Day 10: Depart for home
Add 3 more days
Day 10: Tokyo • Nagasaki
Visit the Nagasaki Peace Park and Museum
Reflect on your travels and learn how to fold a paper crane
Day 11: Nagasaki
Travel to Nagasaki
Visit Glover Garden and Peace Park
Visit Dejima Museum
Ride a cable car up Mt.Inasa
Day 12: Nagasaki • Tokyo
Fly to Tokyo
Participate in a calligraphy activity
Explore the Shibuya district of Tokyo