Imperial Palace. You'll see the charming East Outer Garden with views of the ancient castle walls and ruins. Proceed to a Pearl Gallery where you'll learn more about the pearl's cultivation tradition. Your tour concludes at Asakusa Kannon, Tokyo's most spectacular and sacred Buddhist temple. The narrow alleys are filled with local small shops, restaurants and tranquil gardens surround the temple. Stroll along Nakamise Street nearby, filled with stores stocking treasure troves of traditional Japanese wares and crafts. Afternoon is free for independent pursuits and you may visit the nearby exciting Ginza district renowned for its superior shopping, dining and entertainment.
Day 3
Mount Fuji & Hakone Excursion - Japan's pastoral countryside unfolds for you, as you depart Tokyo today for Mount. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The main attraction here is majestic Mount Fuji, a dormant volcano that last erupted almost 300 years ago. The mountain's perfectly shaped cone has inspired artists and poets for centuries. If weather permits, we will drive up to the fifth station of the snow capped peak for panoramic vistas. Savor lunch of your choice at the nearby hot spring resort town of Hakone before embarking on a scenic boat ride on tranquil Lake Ashi. Later, enjoy a cable car ride up Mount Komagatake for a sweeping view of Hakone National Park and Mount Fuji before returning to Tokyo late this afternoon.
Day 4
Tokyo - Spend a day at leisure to explore Tokyo from your conveniently located hotel. For a real taste of Japan, get up early and head for the colorful wholesale fish market! You may also join an optional excursion outside Tokyo to Nikko. Nikko is a magnificent complex of shrines dedicated to the first shogun, adorned with some of the finest woodcarvings in all of Japan.
Day 5
Tokyo/Kyoto - Today, we embark on a thrilling train ride on the super-express Bullet Train Shinkansen headed for splendid Kyoto city. Embodying Japan's rich culture and complex history, Kyoto has over 2000 temples and shrines, delightful gardens and exceptionally preserved wooden buildings. The wonderful sights, tasty local cuisine and exceptional arts and crafts here, are certain to enchant you! After checking into the hotel of your choice, the rest of the day is at your leisure and disposals.
Day 6
Kyoto - was the capital of Japan from 794 A.D. to 1868 A.D., Kyoto is trully a world-class city, a true oasis. Today, a local expert guide leads you on a guided tour exploring some of the city's highlights. We begin at Nijo Castle, renowned for its ornate interiors. Built by Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu in the early 17th century, the castle symbolizes the power and riches of the newly established Edo-based Shogun. Our next stop is one of Kyoto's most inspiring sights, the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, also known as Kinkaku-ji. As you approach the temple via a tree-shaded path, emerge into an exquisite Japanese-style garden on the other side of which stands the fabled pavilion. It is built on pillars magnificently suspended over a lake. Proceed to the colorful Handicraft Center where you can see demonstrations of traditional Japanese arts and crafts. This afternoon visit renowned Kiyomizu Temple, founded in the 8th century. Situated halfway up the Otowayama Hill it encompasses a vast area and affords stunning views of Kyoto. Wander along the narrow winding alleys leading up to the temple, lined with magnificently preserved old houses, craftmen's workshops and tea houses. Soak up the flavor of traditional Japanese atmosphere, and perhaps purchase some exquisite locally crafted and traditional souvenirs.
Day 7-8
Kyoto. Two full days on your own to explore ancient Kyoto's grace and beauty or join an optional tour. You may visit some of the smaller and serene temples, marvel at splendid classical Japanese gardens, see the exquisitely dressed geishas at the colorful Gion corner, or join a traditional tea ceremony. Perhaps visit the acclaimed Miho Museum, built on a wooded mountain-top outside Kyoto. Also available is an optional excursion to Nara, Japan's first capital and symbol of tranquility, where you may see the world's largest indoor Buddha statue.
Day 09
We transfer to the international airport for your return flight back homes.
