Welcome to Japan. Enjoy a group transfer from the airport to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to settle in or begin exploring Japan’s vibrant capital. This evening, gather with your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner. (D)
La Vista Tokyo Bay or similar - 3 Nights
Explore the lively Tsukiji Outer Market, where fresh seafood, specialty ingredients and local food stalls offer an exciting introduction to Tokyo’s culinary culture. Visit historic Asakusa to see Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple with free time to browse the shops along Nakamise Street. Take in sweeping views from Tokyo Skytree before joining a sushi-making class, one of Japan’s most beloved dishes. (B, L)
Visit the Meiji Shrine with time to stroll around Harauku. Experience the energy and rhythm of Japan with a Taiko drum performance. Discover modern Tokyo with a visit to Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections and see the beloved Hachiko statue, a symbol of loyalty and devotion. (B)
Journey into the Japanese Alps to visit Matsumoto Castle, a striking original castle, known for its dramatic black-and-white exterior and mountain setting. Continue to Takayama, a beautifully preserved town celebrated for its traditional streets, craftsmanship and mountain culture. Enjoy a delicious group dinner. (B, D)
hotel around TAKAYAMA - Ascend Hotel Collection -
2 Nights
Explore Takayama’s historic old town, where wooden merchant houses, sake breweries and narrow streets evoke the atmosphere of old Japan. Then explore the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, morning market, Festival Floats on the streets and Old Street Kami-sannomachi. (B)
Travel to the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go, renowned for its steeply thatched gassho-zukuri farmhouses set against a mountain backdrop. Enjoy a guided visit through the village and step inside Nagase House to learn more about traditional rural life. Continue to Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital, a city rich in temples, gardens and cultural traditions. (B)
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo or similar - 3 Nights
Begin the day at Arashiyama walking through the famous Bamboo Grove and Monkey Park for beautiful views. Continue to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples. Participate in a Green Tea Ceremony, a meaningful display of Japanese hospitality and ritual before strolling through Ninenzaka, lined with shops and teahouses. (B)
Travel to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital and visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing one of Japan’s great bronze Buddha statues. Visit Nara Park, where deer roam freely on the temple grounds. Stop at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the hillside. Tonight gather for a memorable Farewell Dinner featuring a Geisha/Maiko performance, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s refined entertainment traditions. (B, D)
After breakfast, enjoy a convenient group transfer to the airport. (B)
Have a knowledgeable AAA travel agent connect with you to help you plan your trip with ease.
*Rates are per person, land only. Rates, terms, conditions and itinerary are subject to change without notice. Rates do not include airfare, air taxes. AAA member benefits are valid for passengers who book throughAAA travel only. Benefits listed may be substituted/eliminated based on passenger participation. Benefits have no cash value. Other restrictions may apply. The Auto Club Group is not responsible for any errors or omissions in the printing of this document. 19-TR-0295