Japan Family Journey: From Ancient to Modern Times

5.0Based on

Carbon neutral

11 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

20 peopleMaximum group size

6 - 100 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Tokyo, Japan

Ends

Kyoto, Japan

Highlights

Take part in a traditional taiko drumming class.

Learn about the health benefits of the Okinawan cuisine.

Meet and train with a former sumo wrestler.

Watch wild snow monkeys bathe in hot springs.

Learn all about miso.

Delve into delicious Japanese cuisine while creating your own ramen.

Encounter fearless deer in the gardens of Nara Park.

Learn about the legendary swordsmanship of the samurai

Delve into delicious Japanese cuisine while creating your own ramen.

Encounter fearless deer in the gardens of Nara Park.

Learn about the legendary swordsmanship of the samurai

Itinerary

Japan Family Journey: From Ancient to Modern Times is a captivating 11-day city sightseeing tour from Tokyo to Kyoto, blending the neon energy of modern Japan with the serenity of temples and traditions. Visit dazzling Tokyo, imperial Kyoto, and the mountain retreats of Nagano, engaging in everything from sumo wrestling and samurai swordplay to culinary adventures and encounters with snow monkeys. This journey is perfect for families and culture seekers eager to experience Japan’s contrasts. The unique selling point is its hands-on immersion into both ancient and contemporary Japanese life, ensuring something delightful for every traveler.

day 1 - Tokyo

Welcome to Tokyo–your arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Check in and get excited to meet your fellow travelers during a welcome meeting this evening where all families can bond before the Journey ahead.

Accomodation:Sheraton Miyako Hotel Tokyo (or similar)

Transport:Airport Transfer

Included Activity:Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting Duration : 1.0 hr

day 2 - Tokyo

Today, we’ll see Tokyo from a local’s perspective, traveling by public transit. We start from a traditional Japanese taiko drumming class. Hear how these traditional wooden drums are made and learn three different playing techniques. Put your newly acquired skills to the test during a group performance together with a professional Wadaiko drummer. Later a visit to the serene Meiji Jingu shrine, dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Meiji. Then hit the streets of the buzzing Harajuku district, where kitschy-cute street fashion and candy-colored wigs are the order of the day.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Sheraton Miyako Hotel Tokyo (or similar)

Transport:Metro

Included Activities:Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) Visit, Harajuku Visit, Traditional Taiko Drumming Class Duration : 1.5 hr, Asakusa Walk

day 3 - Tokyo

Learn Japanese secrets to longevity in a cooking class on Okinawa cuisine, originating from the Japanese island reputed to have the highest life expectancy in the world. Prepare a selection of dishes using typical ingredients and learn about the beneficial qualities of each. Savour your creations for a nutritious lunch and spend the rest of the Day discovering Tokyo at leisure.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Sheraton Miyako Hotel Tokyo (or similar)

Transport:Metro

Included Activity:Okinawa Cooking Class Duration : 2.5 hr

Optional Activities:Ueno Park Visit Park entrance is free, as are many of the shrines. However, some shrines and museums charge an entry fee of 500JPY., Tokyo Tower Visit Completed in 1958, the Tokyo Tower symbolized the rebirth of Japan as a post war economic power. Standing 13 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower, it has 2 observation decks which offer stunning views of Tokyo and the surrounding area. On a clear day, if you’re lucky, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji!

day 4 - Tokyo/Nagano (area)

This morning, take a crash course in Japan’s national sport: sumo wrestling! Get initiated into this explosive martial art, which originated as a religious ritual more than a thousand years ago. Learn about the wrestlers’ rigorous routine and mindboggling calorie intake, earn basic technique and watch Sumo wrestling. After the class, journey to Nagano, the beautiful mountain city that hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Settle into our historic ryokan — or traditional Japanese inn — located just outside the city, in the hot springs town of Shibu Onsen.
Ryokan are traditional Inns found across Japan. Featuring tatami floors (soft mats of woven straw), futon beds, Japanese-style baths, cotton kimono (casual robe worn to lounge around), and kaiseki meals (often served in the comfort of your own room); a ryokan is the perfect place to experience traditional customs and local immersion. The Ryokan is a simple, traditional Inn with few amenities and shared facilities, have fun and enjoy this relaxing opportunity to learn more about Japan’s unique customs.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Issa no Komichi Biyu no Yado (or similar)

Transport:Metro, Bullet Train Duration : 3.0 hr, Local Train Duration : 1.0 hr

Included Activity:Sumo Wrestling Class Duration : 2.0 hr

day 5 - Nagano

Nagano is home to the Japanese macaque, or snow monkey — one of the only primate species that can survive below freezing temperatures. Venture to Jigokudani Yaen Koen (Snow Monkey Park) to watch these furry simians scampering about the rocks or taking a soak in one of the thermal pools, fed by natural hot springs. Then head into Nagano city to explore the 7th-century Buddhist temple of Zenkoji, home to the very first Buddha statue brought to Japan.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Hotel Metropolitan Nagano (or similar)

Transport:Local Train Duration : 1.0 hr

Included Activities:Jigokudani Monkey Park Visit, Zenkō-ji Temple

day 6 - Nagano

Travel to Matsumoto for a visit to one of Japan’s most treasured castles. Known as the “crow castle” for its imposing black exterior, the Matsumoto fortress dates back to the 16th century and was once a stronghold of the samurai, Japan’s elite military class. Later, visit Ishii Miso, founded in 1868 at the end of the Edo era, and see how they are still producing miso by a unique traditional method. Check out massive wooden barrels and learn about Miso— a soybean paste and essential ingredient in Japanese cuisine. Nagano Prefecture is known as the top producer of miso in Japan. Let's have a taste of Miso soup and even Miso ice cream!

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Hotel Metropolitan Nagano (or similar)

Transport:Local Train Duration : 1.5 hr - 2.0 hr

Included Activities:Matsumoto Castle, Miso Foodie Experience

day 7 - Nagano/Kyoto

Hop on the bullet train to Kyoto, which served as Japan’s imperial capital for more than a millennium. Delve into the aromatic alleys of Nishiki Market, one of the most popular food markets in the city. Opt to sample local specialties like barbecued quail, soy milk donuts, sesame ice cream, and more, taking your taste buds on a culinary roller coaster. This evening, venture to Gion, Kyoto’s renowned geisha district. As you wander its lantern-lit streets, you might catch a glimpse of a geisha — traditional female entertainers recognizable by their distinctive makeup.
As the Imperial capital, Kyoto is an essential part of any visit to Japan. Kyoto has some of the most magnificent temples in Japan which date back centuries. There are said to be 2,000 temples, shrines, palaces, museums and traditional gardens in Kyoto. Wander past huge wooden structures and multi-storied pagodas, all linked with famous walkways.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma (or similar)

Transport:Bullet Train Duration : 3.0 hr

Included Activities:Nishiki Market Visit Duration : 1.0 hr, Gion Walk

day 8 - Kyoto

This morning, pay a visit to the Fushimi Inari shrine, located just outside of Kyoto. Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, this beautiful temple is known for its Senbon Torii — a stunning walkaway of vermilion-colored gates. Later, dive into another fun-filled cooking class, rolling up your sleeves to make a steaming bowl of ramen noodles.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma (or similar)

Included Activities:Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Visit, Ramen Making Class Duration : 2.0 hr

Optional Activities:Tofukuji Temple Visit This Zen temple located south-east of Kyoto City was founded in 1236 by the Fujiwara clan during the Kamakura period. While this is one of the most popular temples to visit in Kyoto at any time of the year, it’s particularly popular when the autumn colours are at their finest!, Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion Visit Explore Kinkaku-ji or the Golden Pavilion, named for the temple’s top two floors that are covered in gold leaf. The temple is surrounded by trees and sits on a reflective pond, making this must-see in Kyoto a perfect place for photos. While the temple can be busy, there are gardens around the area to explore once you’ve had enough of the view.

day 9 - Nara

Spend the Day discovering ancient Nara, where Japan’s first capital was established in the early 8th century. Immerse yourself in the ornate halls of the Todaiji temple, and gaze upon the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world, standing nearly 50 feet tall. At Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s most celebrated shrine, stroll romantic walkways lined with hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns, and wander amid the gardens of Nara Park, where herds of semi-domesticated deer roam free. Check out the shops and galleries of the Naramachi district before returning to Kyoto.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma (or similar)

Transport:Local Train Duration : 1.25 hr

Included Activities:Tōdai-ji Buddhist Temple Complex, Kasuga Grand Shrine

day 10 - Kyoto

Unleash your inner warrior this morning with a lesson on samurai swordplay. Learn how to wield a Japanese sword and witness an unforgettable performance by masters of kembu, or sword dance. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Kiyomizudera temple, perched on a hilltop near a sacred waterfall. There is much to keep you busy here: ring giant prayer bowls, sip holy water — said to have wish-fulfilling qualities — or muster the courage to walk through the Tainai Meguri, a lightless underground tunnel that symbolizes the visitor’s journey to enlightenment. This evening, celebrate your Japan adventure at a farewell dinner.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma (or similar)

Included Activities:Kembu Masters, Kiyomizu Temple Visit

day 11 - Kyoto

Depart any time.
There are no planned activities today and you are free to depart at any time.

Meal:Breakfast

Japan Family Journey: From Ancient to Modern Times

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What's Included

Accommodation

Hotels (9 nts), traditional Inn (1 nt)

Meals

10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
Note: Allow USD390-510 for meals not included.

Transport

Bullet train, express train, local train, ferry, metro, taxi, public bus, walkingAll transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Guide

2 CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) throughout

Included activities

Your Family Journeys Moment: Traditional Taiko Drumming Class, TokyoYour Family Journeys Moment: Okinawa Cooking Class, TokyoYour Family Journeys Moment: Sumo Wrestling Class, TokyoYour Foodie Moment: Miso Foodie Experience, NaganoYour Family Journeys Moment: Ramen Making Class, KyotoYour Family Journeys Moment: Kembu Masters, KyotoTour of Tokyo including Meiji Jingu Shrine, Asakusa and Harajuku districtsTraditional taiko Japanese drumming classSumo class led by a former wrestlerSleep in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) and enjoy a kaiseki dinnerSee wild snow monkeys at the Jigokudani Monkey ParkVisit the Buddhist temple of Zenkō-jiVisit Matsumoto castleVisit a local miso experienceWalk through the Nishiki Market and Gion Geisha District with your CEOsVisit the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha ShrineTake part in a ramen making classTour Nara including visits to the Tōdaiji Temple, Kasuga Grand Shrine and the Naramachi districtVisit the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple

What's Excluded

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