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In Tokyo, explore districts from the older Asakusa to the modern Ginza with its neon skyscrapers. Travel to Kyoto, a cultural hub for the country, where you can bask in the serenity surrounding the iconic Golden Pavilion and the majesty of Nijo Castle. See the Giouji Temple — a Buddhist place of worship set amidst a moss-covered forest — and feast on a traditional Kaiseki dinner as you watch an apprentice geisha perform beside you. Learn the art of the tea ceremony, and stand before the famous Senso-ji Buddhist temple. Tour Matsumoto Castle, known as the “Crow Castle” for its black exterior. Taste legendary Hida beef and sip sake at a local brewery. Board the Shinkansen “bullet” train to travel to Hiroshima to visit Shrine Island and the Peace Memorial Museum. Japan slowly draws you into its eclectic culture and charm, revealing incredible moments every step of the way.
18 Days | April 11-28, 2024
From $15,199* CAD Per Person – Includes Air + Tax
Ask us about upgrading to business class or single supplements.
For reservations or more information please contact,
Maritime Travel
Neelam Dwivedi, Manager
Royal City Centre – Unit 119
610 – 6th Street, New Westminster, BC
ndwivedi@maritimetravel.ca
Phone: 604.525.5933 • Direct: 778.397.3381
THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2024
Today we board our trans-pacific flight to the land on the rising sun!
FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2024
Tokyo – Japan
Welcome to Japan, the “Land of the Rising Sun.” Uncover the electrifying city of Tokyo, where pop culture is turned all the way up and traditions are rich and long-kept. In the evening we enjoy e delicious Japanese cuisine including tempura and sushi at a welcome dinner with our Travel Director and fellow travelling companions.
MEAL(S): Welcome Dinner with Wine
ACCOMMODATION: Mercure Tokyo Ginza or similar
SATURDAY, APRIL 13, 2024
Tokyo – Japan
Today, venture outside of Tokyo to nearby Nikko for a visit to the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While you are in the area, view the scenic Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Waterfall located in the Nikko National Park. In the evening we dine in a local restaurant.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
SUNDAY, APRIL 14, 2024
Tokyo – Japan
Today you are in for a treat as you travel to the Ashikaga Flower Park. One of the most well-known wisteria gardens in Japan, some people might consider this a theme park of flowers. Afterwards, we visit the Bannaji Temple and the Ashikaga School.
MEAL(S): Breakfast
MONDAY, APRIL 15, 2024
Tokyo – Japan
Feel the excitement start to build as you pass by the grounds of the Imperial Palace and see the Niju Bridge and Sakurada Gate, the well-known symbols of the Imperial Palace. Walk through Ginza, one of the most elegant and luxurious streets in the world, where modern landscape meets rich history. Enjoy shopping at some of the most renowned “department stores” in Japan. Later, amid a lush forest outside of Tokyo, visit the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. We dine in a local restaurant this evening featuring a Japanese Izakaya-styled menu.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2024
Tokyo – Japan
Wander along the famous Nakamise Street and explore Kappabashi, a local back-street known as Tokyo’s foodie hub. Explore Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest Geisha district. Visit the famous Buddhist temple, Senso-ji, the colourful temple famous for the red chochin (lantern) hanging at the entrance gate. After lunch, experience the long standing tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony, dating back to the 15th century. During your free time, explore the Nakamise Shopping Arcade and feel the energy of the oldest shopping street in Japan. Then, we enjoy a Sumida River Cruise’ and a visit to Hamarikyu Garden.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Lunch
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 2024
Sendai, Miyagi – Japan
This morning we are transferred to the train station* and continue our journey north by bullet train, your destination is the Sendai, known as the City of Trees. This is a true locals region, off-the-beaten path and away from the tourist crowds. For lunch meet the owner of a local inn on one of the many islands in the bay to enjoy local seafood and hear stories from a local with insights in to life on the island. Visit the Zuihoden Mausoleum and the remains of the 17th century castle and museum taking you through the castle’s history. This afternoon, experience this for yourself when you visit a traditional teahouse and learn how to prepare the perfect cup of Matcha Green Tea. Continue to your five-star hotel where the evening is at your leisure. Perhaps sign up for a massage at the in-house spa or discover how Kokubuncho comes to life at night time?
* Your baggage will be transported separately to Hakone. Therefore, you will require to pack an additional small bag for the 1 night stay in Sendai.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Lunch
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Metropolitan Sendai or Similar
THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024
Hakone – Japan
This morning after a short walk to the train station we make our way back to Tokyo where we board our coach and continue our journey to the lakeside resort of Hakone, renowned for its hot springs. In the shadow of Mt. Fuji (UNESCO), this scenic town hugs the shorelines of Lake Ashi. Make a stop at Owakudani, located in an active volcanic zone. The Owakudani crater was created some 3,000 years ago, when Mt. Hakone erupted. Afterwards, climb aboard the Hakone Ropeway, an aerial cable car descending from Owakudani for a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji. Next, take to the deep-blue waters of Lake Ashi on a cruise where you’ll see epic views of the local mountains before stopping in the charming town of Moto-Hakone. Tonight dine at a restaurant and experience Japanese Kaiseki cuisine.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
ACCOMMODATION: Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu Or similar
FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024
Takayama – Gifu – Japan
This breathtaking day begins reflecting the sky and landscapes in its clear waters ascending the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mount Fuji. On arrival, enjoy spectacular views of one of the most recognizable landmarks of Japan as you enjoy lunch made of fresh, seasonal ingredients at a local restaurant. See Lake Kawaguchi where you will be captivated by the flawless reflections of the mountain. We continue to Matsumoto Castle, known as the “Crow Castle” because of its striking black exterior. Enjoy the local cuisine as we stop for lunch at a Soba noodle shop. Later, you’ll step back in time in the rural Edo-period town of Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Lunch
ACCOMMODATION: Tokyu Stay Hida-Takayama Musubi-no-yu Or similar
SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 2024
Takayama – Gifu – Japan
The ancient cultures of Takayama come alive this morning in the town’s historic district. Take a walk through the past and glimpse the 19th-century Jinya government building. Stroll through the morning market, a 600-year-old open air market with locally grown and produced products, located along the Miyagawa River. Circuit the winding streets, where the town’s traditional charms are preserved in the inns and houses. Visit a Sake brewery in the afternoon. Afterward, experience a true Japanese epicurean treat – traditional rice wine paired with a special Hida beef dinner
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
SUNDAY, APRIL 21, 2024
Kanazawa – Japan
Today, embrace the unique charms of Shirakawa-go (UNESCO). Hidden away in the mountain, this harmonious village is famous for its gassho-zukuri-style houses – thatched-rooftops designed to resemble two hands joined in prayer. We visit the residence of the Wada family and free time in the village. Later, we journey to Kanazawa, the origin of gold-leaf making since the 16th century. Visit the Samurai district where we will enter the former home of the Nomuras, a wealthy samurai family who served the ruling Maeda family. Then, travel to the Geisha quarters of Kanazawa, the Higashi Tea district.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with Wine
ACCOMMODATION: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel Or similar
MONDAY, APRIL 22, 2024
Kanazawa – Japan
More than 25 acres of absolute beauty await you today at Kenroku-En – Garden of Six Qualities. From the beauty of Japan’s most stunning gardens, dive into the ancient craft of gold leaf making during a hands-on lesson in decorating your own lacquer box! In the centre of town, take in the action of the Omicho fish market before venturing out on your own to really immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s dynamic culture.
MEAL(S): Breakfast
TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 2024
Kyoto – Japan
Our journey continues as we travel by high speed bullet train to Kyoto, a former Imperial capital of Japan and now one of the nation’s top cosmopolitan cities. Enjoy Sushi making with lunch before we Marvel at the Zen Buddhist temple of Kinkakuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see its famed Golden Pavilion to appreciate its classic architecture, intricate history and expansive gardens. Visit the famous Giouji Temple, situated on a majestic grove of bamboos and maple trees, where you’ll learn about local folklore and explore the temple’s thatched hut and walk through the indigenous bamboo forest. Later we partake in a Zazen experience.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Lunch
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Granvia Or similar
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2024
Kyoto – Japan
After a short walk this morning we board the Shinkansen bullet train to the station in Hiroshima. On arrival we visit Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine. Afterwards arrive in Hiroshima and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Peace Memorial Park and Museum, the only structure left standing after the first atomic bomb was dropped during World War II. The bomb was the single-most destructive force ever created by humankind and changed the course of history forever. During your visit, meet a survivor (subject to availability) who will share insights into this dark chapter of world history. For lunch, you will be treated to traditional Japanese savory pancakes known as Okonomiyaki, a dish typical of the region. As this long and moving day comes to a close, return to Kyoto by the Shinkansen bullet train.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Lunch
THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2024
Kyoto – Japan
This morning, explore Fushimi Inari Taisha for a tour of the most revered shrine of Inari. We visit the Nishiki Market for some free time before we follow the spectacular rows of orange torii (made famous in the movie Memoirs of a Geisha) that weave through the forest, leading you to the inner shrine. Move on to the home of the first Shogun, Nijo Castle (UNESCO), and see intricate woodcarvings, wall paintings, and the Ninomaru Garden, designed by Kobori Enshu, a landscape architect and tea master. Next, learn about the ancient craft of stenciling during a hands on lesson. Later we see vibrant Gion neighborhood, known as Kyoto’s primary geisha district before fully immersing yourself in Japanese culture tonight during a special kaiseki dinner and geisha show.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2024
Osaka – Japan
Today, journey to your final destination, the energetic city of Osaka. En route, you will make stops at Nara Park, Todaji Temple, the Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the Naramachi neighborhood. Enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers in Osaka tonight.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Imperial Hotel Osaka Or similar
SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2024
Osaka – Japan
Situated in the heart of Japan where rivers and sea routes converge, Osaka is a hub of cutting-edge architecture, exotic flavors and laid-back locals. Today you will discover the city’s highlights, starting with a visit to the top of the Floating Garden Observatory in the Umeda Sky Building for incredible city views. Then, together with your Travel Director and fellow travelers, discover why Osaka is known as the kitchen of Japan as you stroll along Dotonbori Street. Try local specialties such as Takoyaki, a local favorite made of wheat flour based batter and filled with minced or diced octopus. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, while enjoying a two-course lunch near the castle. Tonight, sit down and say your fond farewells to your travel companions at a farewell dinner. Raise a cup of sake and toast to the colorful spirit of Japan, and the adventures you have had.
MEAL(S): Breakfast, Lunch, Celebration Dinner with Wine
SUNDAY, APRIL 28, 2024
Osaka – Japan
Today travel home with your fond memories of Japan, as we are transferred to the airport for our return flight home.
MEAL(S): Breakfast
B = BREAKFAST L = LUNCH D = DINNER
Terms & Conditions: *Price is per person based on double occupancy and is subject to change and availability until booked. Airfare included from Vancouver (currently based on 2022 pricing). Airport taxes and fuel surcharges are to be applied at the time of ticketing and is subject to change without notice. Non-refundable deposit is $2500 per person. Final payment is due on January 11, 2024. Price was valid at time of publishing and is subject to change without notice. Terms and Conditions apply. BCCP #51190
What’s Not Included: passports and applicable visa fees, charges imposed by third parties, laundry, phone calls, items of a personal nature, beverages, meals and sightseeing not detailed on the itinerary, excess baggage, travel insurance. Travel Insurance is required. Ask your Travel Agent for further details.
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