8 Days Japan Highlights Tour Package

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Priced From: $2,850 (pp dbl. occ.)
Dates: Jan - Dec

Day 2:  Arrive Japan
Arrive in Narita, where you are met and transferred to your hotel.  Choice of Hotels

Day 3:  Tokyo 
This morning, set out on a guided tour of Tokyo, among the most highly developed cities in the world.  Visit Tokyo Tower Observatory, which offers sweeping views of this frenetic city.   Complete the tour with a visit to Asakusa Kannon Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo.  According to legend, in the 7th century, two local fishermen discovered in their nets a statue of Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy.   The first temple is said to have been built on the site to house this statue.  Return to your hotel this afternoon.  Remainder of the day is at leisure to explore this vital city, easily accessible from your centrally located hotel. Choice of Hotels (B)
 
Day 4:  Tokyo/ Hakone / Tokyo
Depart for scenic Hakone, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.  Hakone is a collection of villages in the mountains near Mt. Fuji, less than 60 miles from Tokyo.  Begin your tour with a drive to the fifth station of towering Mt. Fuji. Hakone is famed for hot springs, outdoor activities, natural beauty and views of nearby Mt. Fuji. This is one of the most popular destinations for both Japanese and international travelers.  On clear days, gorgeous views take in surrounding mountain peaks.  Following lunch, enjoy a cruise on serene Lake Ashi, a beautiful mountain lake formed in the caldera of Mt. Hakone after the volcano's last eruption some 3,000 years ago.  Travel to Mt. Komgatake by aerial cableway.  This afternoon, head to Odawara for your first experience on Japan’s renowned Bullet Train back to Tokyo, arriving this evening.  You are met and transferred back to your hotel.  Choice of Hotels (B,L,)

Day 5:  Tokyo / Kyoto
This morning, you board the Bullet Train again to set out for one of the most culturally rich cities in Japan – Kyoto.  Upon arrival, a You'r representative will escort you to your hotel for check-in.  This afternoon, explore Kyoto.  Visit Heian Shrine, its graceful medieval history reflected in brightly colored vermillion pillars, green roof, and peaceful gardens.  Sanjusangendo is a temple in eastern Kyoto famous for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.  The temple was founded in 1164, but its present structures date from 1266.  The main hall, which houses the statues, is Japan's longest wooden structure.  In the center, one large statue dominates 500 smaller (life-size) statues, standing in neat rows.  Kiyomizu Temple offers sweeping views of Kyoto.  This Buddhist Temple is also designated a World Cultural Heritage site.  Choice of Hotels  (B)

Day 6:  Kyoto / Nara / Kyoto
Today is dedicated to discovering Kyoto and Nara.  Begin with Nijo Castle, noted for its detailed interior inlay work. Continue on to Kinkakuji Temple and Kyoto Imperial Palace. After lunch, you journey to lesser-known Nara and its Todaiji Temple, a large wooden structure that houses one of the largest Bhuddas in the region.  See Deer Park, so named for more than 1,000 tame deer that roam freely in this 1,250-acre park.   Tour Kasuga Shrine, a highlight of Nara, where you may be fortunate to witness one of their ceremonies. Return to the hotel later this evening. Choice of Hotels (B,L)

Day 7:  Kyoto
This morning, you are treated to a unique cultural exchange with a Japanese family.  You are taken to a local house, where you meet the homeowner and host, who teaches you the basics of preparing a typical Japanese lunch. (Choice of meal is Tempura, Sushi & home style dishes) Following the informal class, everyone sits down together to enjoy the tasty results.  Choice of Hotels (B,L)

Day 8:  Kyoto / Depart 
This morning, we are met at our hotel and escorted on the transfer to Kansai International Airport in Osaka for our onward flight. (B)

• Experience the vibrant and ultra-modern city of Tokyo.

• Cruise scenic Lake Ashi; travel by vehicle for magnificent views of Mt. Fuji; and enjoy an aerial cable ride to see Mt. Komagatake.

• Discover enchanted Kyoto, rich in history and one of the cultural centers of Japan

• Marvel at Todaiji Temple, one of the largest wooden structures in the world

• Participate in a unique and fun cooking class in the private home of a Kyoto family, as your gracious hosts teach you the art of preparing a typical Japanese mid-day meal.

Contact: Travelwizard.com
Phone: 1-800-330-8820 or 1-415-446-5252

12/08