Culinary Delights & Cultural Wonders of Japan 7D/6N

Arrive at the pulsating heart of Japan, Tokyo, where ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity fuse seamlessly. We'll ensure your first moments in Japan are hassle-free with a comfortable transfer from Narita Airport to your Tokyo accommodation. Spend the rest of the day acclimatising to the city's electrifying energy, perhaps taking a leisurely stroll through the neon-lit streets, before succumbing to the indulgent cosiness of your hotel bed, dreaming of the adventures that await.

Included Experiences:

• Smooth transfer from Narita Airport to Tokyo accommodation.

Start your morning with a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel before heading out for an immersive experience at Tsukiji Outer Market. Join local food connoisseurs and unearth the secrets of Japan's most iconic seafood market. Navigate through stalls brimming with the freshest catch and sample quintessentially Japanese flavours, such as succulent bonito and savoury omelettes. For those with a penchant for the finer things, a sip of premium sake awaits, offering a perfect conclusion to this flavour-filled tour. With your taste buds fully sated, the afternoon is yours to enjoy Tokyo at your leisure.

Included Experiences:

• Tsukiji Outer Market Food and Drink Walking Tour with a local, friendly guide.
• Engaging narrative on the history of the market and its pivotal role in Japanese cuisine.
• Sampling a variety of traditional foods and sake.

Feast on a hearty breakfast before you embark on a scenic rail journey to Takayama, a town nestled amidst the serenity of the Japanese Alps. Your Japan Rail Pass makes the trip a seamless venture into the countryside. Watch as skyscrapers give way to verdant valleys and mist-shrouded mountains. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is at your disposal—wander through Takayama's quaint streets, marvel at the richly preserved architecture, and perhaps stumble upon a local eatery for a taste of Hida beef. As night falls, rest in the traditional comforts of your Takayama lodging, a blend of hospitality and heritage.

Included Experiences:

• Scenic rail travel from Tokyo to Takayama using the 7 Day Japan Rail Pass.

Your senses are in for a treat as you relish breakfast before exploring the hidden culinary gems of Takayama. With an expert guide leading the way, visit the vibrant morning markets, tasting fresh herbs and seasonal treats. Continue to a local tofu shop, indulging in the crispy delights of fried tofu, followed by enchanting sweet shops where traditional treats await. Yet the highlight is the visit to a sake brewery, where you’ll delve into the art of sake making and taste several traditional brews. Each sip tells a story of Takayama's history and culture. With your palate richly rewarded, spend the evening at leisure, reflecting on the day’s epicurean escapades.

Included Experiences:

• Guided walking food and sake tour of Takayama.
• Visits to local morning markets with seasonal tastings.
• Sake brewery exploration with diverse sake tastings.

Awake to a traditional breakfast before departing the charming town of Takayama. Utilising your Japan Rail Pass, you'll glide through the picturesque Japanese countryside en route to Kyoto, the city of a thousand temples. Arrive in Kyoto, a living museum steeped in ancient history, where you can spend the afternoon meandering through its storied streets, discovering hidden shrines and tranquil gardens. As dusk paints the town in shades of nostalgia, prepare for an evening of cultural absorption or simply relax at your Kyoto accommodation, a sanctuary of peace reflective of the city's calm demeanour.

Included Experiences:

• High-speed train journey from Takayama to Kyoto with the 7 Day Japan Rail Pass.

After a delightful breakfast, the day is yours to explore Kyoto's splendour. Visit grand temples, stroll through Zen gardens, or shop for exquisite crafts. As evening arrives, so does the opportunity for a truly special experience—a guided night walk through the historic district of Gion. Delve into captivating stories of Geisha life, witnessing the beauty of their world amidst the old teahouses and lantern-lit lanes. This intimate tour reveals the grace and mystery of the Geisha, offering a glimpse into a hidden realm. End the night with a deeper understanding and appreciation for one of Japan's most fascinating traditions.

Included Experiences:

• Guided night walking tour in Gion, the heart of Kyoto’s Geisha culture.

Tuck into one last sumptuous breakfast in Kyoto, the city that has held you in its historical embrace. Reflect on your rich tapestry of experiences as you prepare for departure. You have the flexibility to use your Japan Rail Pass for a smooth journey to Osaka International Airport, a convenient option for your homebound flight. Alternatively, if you're flying out from Tokyo, you can travel back across the evocative landscape to the capital city. Whichever path you choose, these final moments on Japanese soil are filled with the grace and poise that have characterized your entire visit.

Included Experiences:

• Use of the 7 Day Japan Rail Pass for transfer to Osaka International Airport or to return to Tokyo.