TOKYO, KYOTO, MT. FUJI, HAKONE, TAKAYAMA, AND KANAZAWA
Experience true beauty in the “Land of the Rising Sun” on this guided Japan tour with airfare included. All around Tokyo you’ll explore ancient architecture and amazing cultural sights. Discover Japan’s scenic countryside as you travel through Hakone and stop to admire the splendors of Mt. Fuji. In Takayama, enjoy this small town’s quaint history, colorful markets, and stunning views of the Japanese Alps. Take a picturesque drive to visit the historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, then head to Kanazawa where you’ll delight in even more traditional charms. On your last days of this trip, take a beautiful and exciting journey through Kyoto—admire serene temples, wander through Japanese gardens, and take in all this extraordinary culture has to offer.
Itinerary at
a Glance
- 4 Nights in Tokyo
- 2 Nights in Takayama
- 1 Night in Kanazawa
- 3 Nights in Kyoto
Tour
Highlights
Your Tour
Includes
- Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles
- Airfare taxes, fees & fuel surcharges
- Intra-Japan ground transportation and transfers
- Super-Express “bullet” train between Tokyo and Nagoya
- Accommodations at Superior First Class hotels
- 14 meals: Full buffet breakfast daily (B), 1 lunch (L), 3 dinners (D)
- Comprehensive sightseeing tours as indicated in itinerary
- English-speaking Tour Director and local guides
Tour Itinerary
Tokyo
Today, enjoy a full-day guided tour of Tokyo, exploring some of the amazing highlights. Start with a visit to the 1093 ft tall Tokyo Tower. From here you may enjoy bird’s eye views of the sprawling metropolis. Then, stop at the Imperial Palace Plaza for a photo opportunity before we enjoy a sushi-making class with a sushi chef. Afterwards, we’ll have the opportunity to enjoy our sushi for lunch. Your tour continues with a visit to Asakusa Kannon, Tokyo’s most spectacular and sacred Buddhist temple. Narrow alleys filled with small shops, restaurants and tranquil gardens…
Tokyo/Takayama
This morning, embark on a thrilling train ride via the super-express Bullet “Shinkansen” train headed for Nagoya. Here, transfer to a limited-express train for a scenic ride to Takayama, a delightful small town nestled in the majestic Japanese Alps. Over the next few days you’ll travel back in time as you explore rural Japan where traditional-style architecture, ancient culture and fascinating customs have been proudly preserved. After settling into your hotel in the heart of Takayama, embark on a guided walk through the enchanting narrow streets of the Kami-sannomachi…
Takayama
After breakfast, join your guide for a stroll through the fascinating Miyagawa Morning Market along the Miyagawa River in the old town. This 200-year old colorful market bustles with farmers selling fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers and traditional local crafts. We’ll enjoy a sake tasting at the oldest Sake Brewery in Japan while we learn more about how sake is made. Proceed to the Takayama Jinya, a complex of 17th century buildings that once housed officials of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Today, it is a museum with historical displays from the time of direct rule to the Meiji Era. The…
Takayama/Shirakawago/Kanazawa
Today enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside to the rural region of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll discover fascinating examples of old steep thatched roof houses. This unique architectural style, harmonized into the magnificent mountain landscape, was developed over 100 years ago to survive the harsh winters. You’ll visit one of these houses and learn more about daily life in this remote area. Proceed to the village of Gokayama where you’ll enjoy a demonstration of traditional Japanese papermaking techniques. Later this afternoon arrive in…
Kanazawa/Kyoto
Today enjoy a visit to the historic Oumicho Market, a busy and colorful market and explore along with local residents some of the 200 shops selling seafood, vegetables, fruits, flowers, regional specialties and more. Later you’ll be whisked back in time to the exciting Edo period when you visit the Nagamachi district, a small neighborhood of narrow, cobblestone streets where brave samurai warriors once lived. Many homes are still occupied by the samurai descendants but you’ll visit the Nomura Family house that is open to the public where you can admire the stone lanterns and bridges in…
Kyoto
The capital of Japan from 794 to 1868, Kyoto is a world-class gem, a true oasis. Today, depart on a guided tour exploring some of the city’s highlights. We’ll begin at the 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, craftsmen’s workshops and tea houses. Soak up the flavor of traditional Japanese atmosphere, and perhaps purchase some exquisite locally…
Kyoto
A day to explore ancient Kyoto’s grace and beauty on your own 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; or an optional excursion to…
Guided Tour Pricing
| Depart | Return | Depart - Return | Best Value Pricing - Reserve by Jan 31, 2021 | Reserve after Jan 31, 2021 | Select Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2021 | w/ eCheck Discount | Sale | After Sale | ||
| May 16 | May 27 | May 16 - May 27 | $4,599 | $4,699 | $4,999 | Book Now: |
| May 23 | June 3 | May 23 - Jun 3 | $4,499 | $4,599 | $4,899 | Book Now: |
| June 13 | June 24 | Jun 13 - Jun 24 | $4,599 | $4,699 | $4,999 | Book Now: |
| September 5 | September 16 | Sep 5 - Sep 16 | $4,499 | $4,599 | $4,899 | Book Now: |
| October 3 | October 14 | Oct 3 - Oct 14 | $4,799 | $4,899 | $5,199 | Book Now: |
| October 10 | October 21 | Oct 10 - Oct 21 | $4,699 | $4,799 | $5,099 | Book Now: |
| November 7 | November 18 | Nov 7 - Nov 18 | $4,799 | $4,899 | $5,199 | Book Now: |
Rates are based on double occupancy.
Single room supplement is $899.
For more information on this tour, please contact us here or call us during business hours (Mon-Fri, 9:00-9:00 EST and Sat-Sun, 10:00-6:30 EST) at 800-337-7773.
Reservations and Payments
Reservations can be made by phone (1-800-337-7773) and will be confirmed upon receipt of $300 per person non-refundable, non-transferable deposit which must be received at the time of reservation*. A second non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $300 is due 60 days after the date of your reservation. Full payment is due 90 days prior to departure. *If the reservation date is within 70 days of the final payment due date, both first and second deposits are due at the time of reservation. Baggage fees may apply. Space and prices subject to availability. For complete booking information and terms & conditions click here.
Optional Tours Customize your trip with these optional tours.
To enhance and make your vacation in Japan more complete and memorable, your tour guide will offer you several optional tours. All rates are in Japanese Yen. You are also given the approximate equivalent in US dollars, however, please keep in mind that the US dollar rates will fluctuate based on the prevailing exchange rate at the time of travel. Payment should be made by major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard or American Express) or by cash – Japanese Yen (you may exchange US dollars to Japanese Yens at your hotel). Optional tours are subject to a minimum number of participants and may therefore not be offered if this minimum is not met. Also, tours are subject to availability, capacity limitations and operation of the services on the dates you are traveling on. Note that optional tours are non-refundable.
Nikko Full Day Excursion with Lunch
- From approx. 15,300 Yen, $155 Per Person, lunch included
Enjoy a full day guided excursion to the World Heritage Site of Nikko, a magnificent complex of shrines dedicated to the first shogun. After arriving in Nikko, located high up the mountains, visit Toshogu Shrine, famous for its magnificent complex of colorful structures featuring the superb craftsmanship of Japan’s 17th-century artisans. Drive up a zigzag road with 20 hairpin curves before arriving at the restaurant where a Japanese style lunch is served. Later, visit Lake Chuzenji created by an eruption of Mt. Nantai and see the impressive Kegon Waterfalls. Return to Tokyo this…
Featured Accommodations
Before You Depart
FLIGHT INFORMATION
Your departure flight from the U.S. to Japan and back are the following airlines. You are expected to check-in for your flight at least 3½ hours before the scheduled departure. Please make sure to allow sufficient time for clearing immigration and customs if you are planning a connecting flight. We recommend at least 3 ½ hours. Also keep in mind that flight schedules are always subject to change. Schedules are as follows:
| Departure Date | Airline | Los Angeles (LAX) | |
| Depart | Return | ||
| 2021: Apr. 4, Apr. 25, May 16, May 23, Jun. 13, Sep. 5, Oct. 3, Oct. 10 | United Airlines | 11:45AM | 3:45PM |
| 2021: Nov. 7 | United Airlines | 12:15PM | 3:45PM |
ADVANCE SEAT ASSIGNMENT
The above airlines do not assign seats in advance. Seat assignment can only be arranged upon check-in at the airport. Please note that smarTours is not involved with your seat assignment. It is between you and the airline!
LAND-ONLY TRAVELERS
International flights to/from the U.S. are not included. Land-only travelers are responsible for arranging the entry and exit flights, as well as their arrival and departure transfers. smarTours cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by air schedule changes and delays. Unused land services are non-refundable.
Main Tour: Land services start upon independent check in at Tokyo hotel on Day 2 of the itinerary listed on the tour page. Land-Only services end after breakfast at Kyoto hotel on Day 11 of the itinerary listed on the tour page.
PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION
You must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel. Visa is not required for American passport holders visiting Japan. Non U.S. citizens should check with the respective consulates as to the most current visa requirements to all their travel destinations. Please remember that it is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.
TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS
Your airline tickets along with final instruction and additional travel tips will be sent to you 10 – 7 days before the scheduled departure of your tour. Please make sure to advise us in case your address changes.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Immunizations are NOT currently required; however, you should consult your personal physician, local public health authorities or the Center of Disease Control (CDC) as to their suggestions.
CLIMATE
You may expect daytime high temperatures averaging in the 60’s in April and November; 70’s in May, June and October; 80’s in July through September. Overnight temperatures are cooler.
NON-INCLUDED MEALS
The hotels used on this tour have several dining choices from coffee shop to specialty restaurants. You may also dine in local restaurants near your hotels that may furnish less expensive menus. Average cost for dinner (excluding drinks) in the coffee shop is about $25-35 per meal per person. In some local restaurants such as Noodle Shops, you may pay less. Your hotel will accept credit cards for your non-included meals.
CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY
Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards. However, for “street shopping” you will need local currency. Your hotel will be able to exchange for you cash to local currency or you may be able to use ATM machines. It is recommended that you bring along cash in small denominations.
BAGGAGE
Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage (suitcase), max. 44 pounds and one carry-on piece. Carry on must not exceed 18”x10”x8”. As your trip to Japan is informal, we recommend that you do not over-pack and that you take a variety of casual separates with climate and comfort in mind.
Multimedia
Check out photos taken by smarTours travelers on this trip of a lifetime!
