Signature: Classic Japan

Our Classic Japan itineraries offer travelers more time to enjoy the country’s highlights and must-see sites. Explore popular attractions in renowned cities, as well as Japan’s rural, yet charming landscapes. We offer various itineraries according to seasonal attractions, so you can enjoy “Classic Japan” at different times of the year.

Begin your tour in Tokyo, where you will explore the heart of Japan while you visit world-famous attractions and historical landmarks. Also enjoy an authentic Shinto ceremony at one of the city's most important shrines, officiated by a priest or miko (priestess). Explore Japan's largest and busiest fish market, learn how to make your own sushi with a professional sushi chef and savor your delicious creations. Then, head to Hakone for a scenic interlude, where you will take a Lake Ashi Cruise and visit the Open Air Museum.

Stop by Japan’s most iconic mountain, Mt. Fuji, and travel through picturesque scenery to the remote Japanese Alps. Here, you will visit the famous Matsumoto Castle in Matsumoto, the Old Town of Takayama, and the UNESCO-designated villages of Shirakawa-go. These areas hold a unique and traditional atmosphere with their beautifully preserved buildings and secluded location.

Take in the local atmosphere in Kanazawa with a visit to one of Japan's Three Great Gardens - Kenrokuen Garden, then explore the houses and history of Japan's feudal samurai warriors. While in Kanazawa, enjoy an afternoon of leisure where you will choose your own afternoon activity, including a visit to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kutani Kosen Kiln, and a Gold Leaf Workshop.

Continue on an express train to Osaka to participate in a Taiko Drum Experience. Enjoy Nara's world- renowned Todaiji Temple and meet some of the freely-roaming Sika deer at Nara Park. Then spend three nights in Kyoto, the former capital of Japan and experience activities for further insight into Japan’s rich culture and history. Our travel group will have a chance to learn the arts of calligraphy and ikebana in a wooden townhouse. Try on a traditional kimono, learn to meditate like a Zen Buddhist monk, participate in a traditional green tea ceremony, and enjoy Kyoto cuisine while accompanied by an apprentice geisha (maiko).

Take a bullet train to Hiroshima, where you will visit the scenic Miyajima Island before touring the Peace Memorial Park. Then examine the thought-provoking exhibits of Benesse House, Chichu Art Museum, and Art House Project while on Naoshima Island. Many of these buildings were cleverly designed by famed Japanese architect Tadao Ando.

Spend time in Kurashiki at its nostalgic canal area, a quaint district with former storehouses converted into shops and cafes. Continue to Himeji for its elegant White Heron Castle (Himeji Castle), a national treasure and designated World Heritage site. Finally, visit Kobe to try the city’s famous Kobe beef, a prized delicacy that will be cooked teppanyaki style.

Interested in this tour package? We offer various departure dates in spring, summer, and autumn with slight variations according to the season. Tour versions include a chance to Japan’s beautiful cherry blossoms, striking autumn leaves, wisteria and the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, the Takayama Spring Festival, and the Takayama Autumn Festival.