Ancient Trails of Japan

14 Days | 13 Nights

Price per person from $8,879pp *Based on double occupancy
Land Only

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Travel beyond Japan's famous cities to discover timeless villages, sacred shrines, mountain landscapes and centuries-old traditions. Journey from the neon lights of Tokyo to the peaceful gardens of Kanazawa, the alpine charm of Takayama, the spiritual beauty of Miyajima and the cultural treasures of Kyoto, experiencing the perfect blend of iconic highlights and authentic local encounters.

  • 13-nights Superior/Deluxe Hotels
  • Private Airport Transfers
  • Admission Fees, Transportation and Licensed Tour Guide
  • Breakfast daily
Deer at Tōdai-ji temple complex, Nara

Deer at Tōdai-ji temple complex, Nara

Description

Discover a different side of Japan on this carefully curated 14-day journey that combines the country's celebrated landmarks with its enduring traditions and lesser-explored cultural treasures.

Your adventure begins in Tokyo, where centuries-old temples stand alongside cutting-edge architecture. Wander the historic streets of Asakusa, visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine, experience the energy of Tsukiji Market and explore elegant Omotesando before escaping the city for the spectacular landscapes of Hakone National Park. Cruise across Lake Ashi, ride the Hakone Ropeway above volcanic valleys and unwind in a traditional ryokan with an onsen experience beneath the shadow of Mt Fuji.

Continue into Japan's mountainous interior aboard the famous Shinkansen, travelling in Green Car comfort to the beautifully preserved town of Takayama. Explore historic merchant streets, browse bustling morning markets or choose to meet local artisans whose skills have been handed down through generations. A scenic private journey through the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go leads to Kanazawa, where exquisite gardens and an authentic tea ceremony reveal the refined traditions of old Japan.

From here, travel to Hiroshima, where moving memorials tell stories of resilience before a visit to the sacred island of Miyajima with its iconic floating torii gate.

Your journey concludes in Kyoto, Japan's cultural heart. Explore magnificent temples, golden pavilions, castles and shrines before venturing to nearby Nara, home to friendly deer, ancient temples and peaceful gardens.

Throughout the journey, comfortable accommodation, expert local guides, premium rail travel and thoughtfully paced sightseeing allow you to experience Japan's remarkable contrasts—from vibrant modern cities to tranquil mountain villages—creating an unforgettable exploration of one of the world's most captivating destinations.

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Price

Travel Dates

Price*
*Based on double occupancy
Aug 17, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026 from $9,649pp *
Nov 1, 2026 - Nov 30, 2026 from $10,899pp *
Dec 1, 2026 - Dec 23, 2026 from $8,879pp *
Jan 4, 2027 - Feb 28, 2027 from $9,249pp *
Mar 1, 2027 - Mar 15, 2027 from $10,099pp *
Mar 16, 2027 - Apr 15, 2027 from $11,459pp *
Apr 16, 2027 - May 31, 2027 from $10,099pp *
Jun 1, 2027 - Aug 8, 2027 from $9,249pp *
Aug 9, 2027 - Aug 16, 2027 from $11,459pp *
Aug 17, 2027 - Oct 31, 2027 from $10,099pp *
Nov 1, 2027 - Nov 30, 2027 from $11,459pp *
Dec 1, 2027 - Dec 23, 2027 from $9,249pp *

*Prices are quoted in USD and are ‘from’, per person, based on twin share. Single supplements apply and are advised on request. Prices are current at time of posting (6/30/2026), may differ when you book your travel and are not guaranteed until full payment is received and processed. Black-out Dates apply Dec 30-Jan 3, 2027; Apr 29 - May 9, 2027. Kyoto Blackout Dates:  May 11-17, 2027; Jul 14-25, 2027. Takayama Blackout Dates Apr 10-18, 2027 & Oct 8-11, 2027. Travel Answers terms and conditions apply to change fees and cancellations.  All prices, itineraries and routing are subject to change without notice. Please call for our current prices based on availability. CA CST: 2076233-40 | WA ID: 601 684 531

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Inclusions

  • Private Meet and Greet and transfer Tokyo Airport to Hotel
  • 3-nights Tokyo, Keio Plaza Hotel or similar
  • 1-night Hakone, Hakone Kowakien Tenyu or similar
  • 2-nights Takayama, Tokyu Stay Hida Takayama Musubinoyu or similar
  • 2-nights Kanazawa, Hotel Nikko Kanazawa or similar
  • 2-nights Hiroshima, Hotel Granvia Hiroshima or similar
  • 3-night Kyoto, Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar
  • Full-day Tokyo Tour, Asakusa, Hamarikyu, Meiji Jingu and Omotesando
  • Half-day Tokyo tour including Tsukiji Fish Market
  • Half-day Kanazawa Tour – Kenrokuen and Tea Ceremony
  • Full-day Hiroshima and Miuajima Tour
  • Full-day Kyoto tour, Kinkakuji, Nijo Castle, Heian Shrine, Kiyomizudera
  • Full-day Nara tour – Isuien Garden, Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha
  • Admission Fees as noted
  • Private transfer Kyoto Hotel to Airport

Exclusions

International Airfare

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Map

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Itinerary

  • Travel Answers Group. Asia. Downtown Tokyo Japan

    Day 1 - Welcome to Tokyo

    Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival, you'll be met by an English-speaking assistant who will escort you to your private transfer for the journey into the heart of Tokyo. After checking into your hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to relax after your flight or begin discovering one of the world's most exciting cities. Wander the vibrant neighborhood surrounding your hotel, sample your first authentic Japanese meal, or simply soak up the atmosphere as your unforgettable journey through Japan begins.

    • Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo  (Superior)
  • Tokyo Senso ji Temple Asakusa district Japan iStock 1404688320 web

    Day 2 – Discover Historic & Modern Tokyo (B,L)

    Experience the fascinating contrasts of Tokyo on a full-day guided exploration using the city's world-renowned public transport network. Begin in historic Asakusa, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple and bustling Nakamise shopping street, where traditional snacks and handcrafted souvenirs line the approach. Continue to the beautifully landscaped Hamarikyu Gardens for tea and Japanese sweets before visiting the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled within a tranquil forest. Finish the day strolling elegant Omotesando, renowned for its striking architecture, boutique shopping and stylish cafés.

    • Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo  (Superior)
  • 1 HERO shot Autumn leaves in Tokyo credit TCVB

    Day 3 – Tsukiji Market & Leisure Time (B)

    This morning, immerse yourself in Tokyo's renowned culinary culture with a guided visit to the lively Tsukiji Outer Market. Wander through narrow laneways filled with colorful seafood stalls, local delicacies and family-run specialty shops while learning about the market's rich history and enduring importance. The afternoon is yours to explore independently, perhaps visit one of Tokyo's many museums, shopping districts or gardens. Alternatively, join an optional sushi-making class and learn the techniques behind one of Japan's most celebrated culinary traditions.

    • Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo  (Superior)
  • Fuji from Suruga Bay PB

    Day 4 – Hakone & Mt Fuji (B,L,D)

    Leave the city behind as you journey aboard the scenic Romance Car to the spectacular landscapes of Hakone National Park. Cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi aboard the famous pirate ship before ascending the Hakone Ropeway above the steaming volcanic valley of Owakudani. Weather permitting, enjoy unforgettable views of majestic Mt Fuji. This evening, experience traditional Japanese hospitality with an overnight stay in a ryokan, where you can relax in natural hot springs before enjoying a beautifully prepared kaiseki-style dinner.

    • Hakone Kowakien Ten-Yu  (Superior)
  • Day 5 Hida Takayama PX

    Day 5 – Journey into the Japanese Alps (B)

    Travel in comfort aboard Japan's famous Green Car Shinkansen before continuing through the scenic Japanese Alps by Limited Express train to the charming mountain town of Takayama. The spectacular journey showcases changing landscapes as bustling cities give way to forested mountains and traditional villages. After arriving, enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring Takayama's beautifully preserved streets, historic merchant houses and inviting local cafés, or simply relax and experience the slower pace of life in this captivating alpine destination.

    • Tokyu Stay Hida-Takayama Musubi no Yu  (Superior)
  • Takayama shutterstock 2508410283

    Day 6 – Explore Takayama (B)

    Today is yours to experience Takayama at your own pace. Browse the famous morning markets, where local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, handcrafted goods and regional delicacies, or wander through the beautifully preserved Old Town lined with sake breweries and traditional wooden buildings. Those seeking a deeper cultural experience can join an optional private artisan tour, offering exclusive access to local craftspeople whose woodworking, lacquerware and ceramic traditions have been perfected over centuries.

    • Tokyu Stay Hida-Takayama Musubi no Yu  (Superior)
  • Day 7 JNTO Shirakawago cJNTO Aug16

    Day 7 – Shirakawa-go & Kanazawa (B)

    Depart Takayama by private vehicle for one of Japan's most picturesque journeys. En route, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed village of Shirakawa-go, famous for its distinctive gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy winter snow. Enjoy time to wander this beautifully preserved village before continuing to Kanazawa, often referred to as "Little Kyoto." The afternoon is free to explore the city's atmospheric streets, local markets and traditional districts at your own pace.

    • Hotel Nikko Kanazawa  (Deluxe)
  • Kanazawa Ichikan shutterstock 1577070778 c.Sean Pavone

    Day 8 – Gardens & Tea Traditions of Kanazawa (B)

    This morning, discover Kenroku-en, considered one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens. Stroll through perfectly manicured grounds featuring tranquil ponds, seasonal flowers, elegant bridges and iconic stone lanterns while learning about the garden's fascinating history. Continue to the historic Gyokusen-en Garden to participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony, where you'll gain insight into the graceful rituals and traditions that have shaped Japanese culture for centuries, accompanied by seasonal Japanese sweets.

    • Hotel Nikko Kanazawa  (Deluxe)
  • Day 9 Hiroshima Peace Memorial PX

    Day 9 – Journey to Hiroshima (B)

    Today you'll continue your journey south aboard Japan's legendary high-speed rail network, travelling in Green Car comfort to Hiroshima. Enjoy changing scenery as the countryside unfolds beyond your window before arriving in this resilient city with a remarkable story of renewal. After checking into your hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to explore independently. Visit local shopping streets, sample Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki, or simply relax ahead of tomorrow's immersive sightseeing experience.

    • Hotel Granvia Hiroshima  (Deluxe)
  • Day 10 Hiroshima Miyajima PX

    Day 10 – Hiroshima & Sacred Miyajima (B,L)

    Reflect on one of the defining moments of modern history with a guided visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Peace Memorial Museum, powerful reminders of the city's enduring message of hope and peace. Later, board a ferry to the sacred island of Miyajima, renowned for its iconic floating torii gate and centuries-old Itsukushima Shrine. Wander charming streets lined with traditional shops, encounter the island's friendly deer and sample local delicacies before returning to Hiroshima this evening.

    • Hotel Granvia Hiroshima  (Deluxe)
  • Kyoto shutterstock 697965793

    Day 11 – Kyoto, Japan's Cultural Heart (B)

    Board the Shinkansen once more as you journey to Kyoto, the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan. Upon arrival, the afternoon is free for independent exploration. Discover charming alleyways, traditional tea houses or riverside cafés, or simply relax before the days ahead. For those wanting an unforgettable cultural experience, an optional evening walking tour through Gion offers the chance to explore Kyoto's historic geisha district, where lantern-lit streets evoke the elegance of old Japan.

    • Kyoto Tokyu Hotel  (Superior)
  • Travel Answers Group. Kinkaku ji Temple. Kyoto

    Day 12 – Kyoto's Timeless Treasures (B,L)

    Spend today exploring some of Kyoto's most celebrated landmarks with your expert guide. Visit the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), one of Japan's most photographed temples, before discovering the beautifully preserved Nijo Castle, once home to the Tokugawa Shoguns. Continue to Heian Shrine and conclude your day at the spectacular hillside temple of Kiyomizu-dera, where sweeping views across Kyoto perfectly capture the city's harmonious blend of history, spirituality and natural beauty.

    • Kyoto Tokyu Hotel  (Superior)
  • Nara Park Japan shutterstock 2559670237 web

    Day 13 – Ancient Nara (B,L)

    Travel to nearby Nara, Japan's first permanent capital and home to some of the country's oldest and most significant cultural treasures. Wander through peaceful Isuien Garden before visiting Todaiji Temple, where the enormous bronze Great Buddha resides inside one of the world's largest wooden buildings. Continue to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, and enjoy time among Nara Park's friendly free-roaming deer, regarded as sacred messengers in the Shinto faith.

    • Kyoto Tokyu Hotel  (Superior)
  • Japan Kyoto

    Day 14 – Farewell Japan (B)

    After breakfast, your remarkable journey through Japan comes to an end. Transfer to Osaka Airport for your onward flight, reflecting on unforgettable experiences that have taken you from the dazzling energy of Tokyo to peaceful mountain villages, ancient temples, beautiful gardens and sacred islands. Rich in culture, history and unforgettable encounters, this carefully curated itinerary offers a deeper appreciation of Japan's timeless traditions and remarkable hospitality, leaving memories to treasure long after you return home.


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