Japan Walking Tour: Shoguns and Samurai

Central Japan, comprised of prefectures such as Nagano and Gifu, is an expansive region of tall mountain ranges and fast-flowing rivers. Many remote villages could not be easily accessed until as of recently, making these places well-preserved. All Japan Tours takes you to places on this tour that let you feel as if you have stepped back during the Edo period. From modern Tokyo, known as Edo during Japan’s feudal era, journey all the way to Kyoto, Japan’s former capital for over 1000 years where most of the countries cultural heritage resides.

Start your tour in Tokyo, where we will explore historic landmarks before heading towards Yudanaka Onsen hot spring. Here, we can spot the famous “snow monkeys” enjoying the natural hot spring baths. We will then visit one of the best-preserved portions in the Kiso Valley where the charming villages of Tsumago and Magome have been immaculately revived. We will then venture to the Japanese Alps to visit Takayama and Shirakawa-go. These quaint villages provide insight into the past of rural Japan. From there we will take the train to Kyoto, an ancient city and once Japan's capital. Take a day trip to Nara, then travel onward to Mount Koya, where you will have the special opportunity to stay overnight at temple lodging. Enjoy morning meditation with the monks before taking the high-speed bullet train back to Tokyo, where your tour will end. Enjoy traditional meals and local cuisine throughout your trip as well as the chance to bathe in your hotel's hot spring onsen.