10-Day Highlights of Japan Heritage Tour of Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Matsumoto, Kanazawa, Kiso Valley, and Kyoto

Experience the real Japan and unravel its surprisingly impressive cultural heritage beyond the typical tourist sites. See Japan’s remarkable treasures and learn more about its fascinating heritage as you travel to Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Matsumoto, Kanazawa, Kiso Valley, and Kyoto on a 10-day multi day trip. You will make your way through the bustling intersections and streets, tour around the celebrated shrines and temples, check out the lively entertainment districts, delight in some delicious local delights, and shop some typical Japanese souvenirs at the famous shopping streets.

Tour Highlights

• Discover Japan’s fascinating cultural heritage

• Explore Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Matsumoto, Kanazawa, Kiso Valley, and Kyoto in 10 days

• See the most famous temples around Japan, including Sensoji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Kinkakuji Temple

• Catch sight of the iconic Mount Fuji

• Taste authentic and delicious Japanese culinary delights

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive at Narita International Airport. With the help of an airport assistant, take the shuttle bus to the hotel and check in.

Explore the Lively Shibuya District

Take in the bright lights and lively atmosphere of Shibuya district as you make you way through its bustling streets, go across the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and find the famous bronze statue of the legendary pet, Hachiko. Enjoy some leisure time before heading back to your hotel.

Day 2

Marvel at the Celebrated Sensoji Temple

Walk around the historic Asakusa district and get the feel of the ancient Japan era. See the treasured Sensoji Temple, the most visited temple and one of the oldest religious structures in the country. Admire the splendid Japanese architecture, get an in-depth understanding of Japanese history, and walk along the oldest shopping streets in Japan. The quintessential Nakamise Shopping Street  offers an incredible selection of local specialities, from typical Japanese souvenirs to delectable traditional snacks.

Visit the Famous Tsukiji Market

Explore one of the most famous fish markets in the world. The Tsukiji Market consists of wholesale and retail shops as well as restaurants offering fresh seafood and produce. Broaden your appreciation of Japanese cuisine through its mouth-watering local treats. You can interact with the local vendors and sample the delicious local delicacies. Feel free to ask your knowledgeable guide for recommendations on the best areas and restaurants to check out. 

Enjoy Classic Japanese Izakaya

Get a taste of Japanese food and culture at a Japanese Izakaya. Experience the astonishing local culture and kick-off your adventure with a toast. Definitely a true local experience!

Day 3

Admire the Scenic Beauty of Mt. Fuji

Bask in the breathtaking scenery as you head towards Lake Kawaguchi, one of the best places to see the grandeur of Mt. Fuji. The most visited of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko serves as the main entry point to the famous lake region. Admire the picturesque sight of Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchiko in the foreground, hop on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for impressive scenic views of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji, board on the popular excursion boat offering spectacular panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, and visit the unique Itchiku Kubota Art Museum featuring kimonos. 

Experience the Ultimate Traditional Japanese Ryokan

Take time to rejuvenate after an exhausting day at a traditional Japanese ryokan, take a dip in a mineral-rich, revitalizing traditional Japanese onsen, and have an authentic, multi-course Japanese Kaiseki dinner. An exceptional and unforgettable way to experience traditional Japanese luxury!

Day 4

See the Imposing Matsumoto Castle

Travel to Matsumoto City and visit the spectacular Matsumoto Castle. One of the most complete and most beautiful among the original castles in Japan, the Matsumoto Castle is designated as one of the National Treasures of Japan. Admire the sophisticated black exterior of the castle, marvel at the complex combination of architectural structures from the Warring States Period and Edo Period, check out the wooden interior of the castle giving you a more authentic experience unlike most of the others castle in Japan that are built of concrete, and see other interesting features of the castle, including the steep wooden stairs and the narrow wooden windows once used by archers and gunmen. 

Explore the Historic Nakamachi District

Just a short walk from the Matsumoto Castle, head to the charming Nakamachi district and walk along the popular shopping street packed with well-preserved traditional storehouses that have been converted into various local shops offering a great selection of Japanese handicrafts, such as pottery, lacquerware, and wooden crafts. Check out the shops, cafes and restaurants around the area as well as the Kurassic-kan, the symbol of Nakamachi Street. You can enjoy some leisure time before heading to your hotel.

Day 5

Visit the Famous Zenkoji Temple

One of the most important and popular temples in Japan, the consequential Zenkoji Temple played a significant role in the development of Nagano. Make your way through the ornate main hall to see the various Buddhist statues, rub the statue of Obinzuru-sama for good health, and watch the ritual ringing of the temple bell, and even experience a Buddhist morning service. You can also stop by the temple’s main gate, Sanmon Gate, where you can get a good view of the temple grounds and check out the historic Nakamise Street lined with shops selling local specialities and souvenirs.

Travel to Kanazawa

Head to Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture. Known for its pristine geisha and samurai districts, the city of Kanazawa boasts a diverse range of historical attractions, art museums, traditional handicrafts, and interesting food culture. 

Explore the Well-Preserved Higashi Chaya District

Discover one of Kanazawa’s largest and most famous geisha districts, Higashi Chaya District. Stroll around the beautifully preserved historical area packed with traditional wooden teahouses, get a glimpse inside a traditional teahouse, and visit local shops selling gold-leaf products. 

Tour the Historic Nagamachi Samurai District

Visit the former residences of samurai and their families, and get an insight of their daily lives as you visit the restored samurai residence of the Nomura family, Nomura-ke. Then, continue to the Shinise Kinenkan Museum, a restored pharmacy displaying the lives of the merchant class during the Edo Period. 

Go to the Bustling Omicho Market

Be amazed with the incredible selection of fresh seafood at the Omicho Market. The largest fresh food market since the Edo Period, the Omicho Market is also known as Kanazawa’s Kitchen and has become a popular tourist destination for its high-quality, fresh seafood and produce. Check out the popular restaurants and sample their must-try rice bowls topped with fresh Kanazawa seafood. 

Appreciate the Beautiful Kenrokuen Garden

Take in the scenic landscape of the exquisite and serene Kenrokuen Garden. A must-see tourist attraction in the heart of Kanazawa, the Kenrokuen Garden is considered as one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens. Admire the amazing variety of flowers and trees around the garden, see the stunning artificial pond called Kasumigaike, and get an insight of the Japanese traditional landscape. You can also look out for the Ishikawamon Entrance, Yugaotei Building, Funsui Fountain, and the Flying Wild Geese Bridge.

Day 6

Experience the Charming Kiso Valley

After breakfast, travel to the quaint and idyllic town of Tsumago in the Kiso Valley. A remote town where time stands still, get a good sense of the Japanese traditional post town atmosphere as you stroll around one of the beautifully preserved post towns in Japan, walk along the stone paths, and admire the traditional wooden architectural structures of Japan’s bygone feudal past.

Day 7

Travel to Kyoto

Enjoy a scenic journey to Kyoto after breakfast. The cultural capital of Japan, discover Kyoto’s refined traditional culture, UNESCO World Heritage listed temples and shrines, and charm of rural Japan.

Visit the Magnificent Kiyomizudera Temple

One of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Kiyomizudera Temple is best known for its large wooden stage juts out over the hillside, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. Take in the picturesque scenery, learn the story behind the temple, and feel free to drink a cup of the Otowa Waterfalls’ stream water for good health, longevity, success, and auspicious love life. You will also walk along the steep and bustling alleys of the historic Higashiyama district packed with local shops and restaurants offering a selection of local specialties.

Enjoy a Delightful Multi-Course Japanese Kaiseki Dinner

Indulge yourself in a night of elegant entertainment with traditional Japanese performance and fulfilling multi-course kaiseki dinner. Admire the elegance of the beautiful geishas as they perform traditional dance and music, learn about the interesting make and geisha traditions, and get an insight into the cultural significance of the geisha’s performance. 

Day 8

See the Grandiose Kinkakuji Temple

Leisurely stroll around the enchanting gardens surrounding the grand Kinkakuji Temple and admire the impressive Japanese architecture showcasing the lavish traditional culture during Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s rule. One of the must-see tourist attractions in Kyoto, the Kinkakuji Temple is also known as the Golden Pavilion for its gold leaf element.

Visit the Tranquil Ryoanji Temple

Take a relaxing stroll around the Ryoanji Temple, admire its most famous rock garden, and learn the fascinating features of the garden. The Ryoanji Temple is not only listed as one of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, but also as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Day 9

Journey Back to Tokyo

Enjoy a comfortable, hassle-free trip back to Tokyo after breakfast. Be at leisure, rest, and relax throughout the journey.

Visit the Impressive Tokyo National Museum

The oldest national museum in Japan, the Tokyo National Museum takes pride in its extensive collection of art and archeological artifacts with over 110,000 pieces including almost a hundred national treasures. Admire the well curated collections and get an in-depth overview of Japanese history. Then, end the day with an appetizing farewell dinner.

Day 10

Depart from Tokyo

Check out from the hotel after breakfast. With the help of the local guide, take the shuttle bus to Narita International Airport for your journey back home.

Inclusions

• Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off

• 9 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfasts

• Japanese Izakaya Welcome Dinner

• Kaiseki Dinner

• Kaiseki Dinner with Geisha Performance

• Farewell Dinner

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation

• Entrance Fees as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights 

• Airport Shuttle

• Local Hotel Tax

• Meals Not Mentioned

• Drinks

• Visas

• Travel Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Gratuities (Optional)

Additional Information

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

• A moderate amount of walking is involved; Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Arrival time at each location may vary depending on the season and the day of the week due to traffic conditions.

• If there is insufficient time for all attractions on the itinerary, the tour guide will adjust the length of time spent at other attractions. 

• Delays, shortening of the tours, or omissions to the itinerary due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances are not subject to refund.

• Itinerary is subject to change and the attractions may be closed due to traffic, weather, and force majeure. An alternative itinerary may also be omitted depending on road conditions.