Japan in Style

📍 Time: Start (guided tour): Depending on the flight arrival Duration: 4.5 hDistance and journey time (approximation): Narita International Airport (NRT) to Central Tokyo: 1.5 h Haneda International Airport (HND) to Central Tokyo: 50 min

Upon arrival to Tokyo’s airport, a chauffeur will be waiting to provide private transport to the Hotel.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in Tokyo at Mandarin Oriental  6 Stars (Super Deluxe)

Inclusions:

📍 Time: Start (guided tour): 09:00 or 09:30 Duration: 8 h

Meet up with the guide this morning at the hotel for the trip to Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s most iconic Shinto shrine steeped in history and spirituality. Pass through the impressive torii gates leading to the shrine's inner forest of over 100,000 trees. Whether witnessing a traditional Shinto wedding procession or strolling through the lush grounds, Meiji Jingu provides an unforgettable experience of nature in the centre of Tokyo’s urban landscape.

Move on to the nearby districts of Harajuku and Omotesando, vibrant neighbourhoods that offer a unique and eclectic experience. Harajuku, renowne d for its quirky street fashion, showcases an array of avant-garde boutiques and shops that cater to various subcultures. Omotesando, often dubbed Tokyo's "Champs-Élysées," presents a sharp contrast with its upscale, sophisticated atmosphere. 

After lunch, use public transport to reach the beautiful Korakuen Garden, a traditional landscape that serves as an excellent example of Japanese garden design.

The final destination of the day is Asakusa. This charming district exudes a nostalgic charm and showcases Tokyo's traditional side. At the heart of Asakusa stands the iconic Senso-ji, Japan's oldest Buddhist temple, drawing hordes of locals and tourists alike seeking blessings and cultural insight. The vibrant Nakamise Street leading to the temple offers a bustling market with a myriad of stalls selling traditional snacks, souvenirs, and handicrafts.

After a full day of touring the city, return to the hotel with the guide or part ways and continue exploring the city independently.
 

Overnight in Tokyo at Mandarin Oriental 6 Stars (Super Deluxe)

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Today is a self-guided day.

Enjoy the rest of the day exploring this amazing city. Make an early start to visit the electronics district of Akihabara or discover Tokyo’s world-class museums and art galleries. Alternatively, choose to partake in the following experiences:

Optional Activity (1): Samurai Sword Lesson

Learn how to fight with a samurai sword from some of Japan’s most famous sword choreographers at Tetsuro Shimaguchi’s Kamui Sword Artists.

Shimaguchi is the leading member of Kamui, a Japanese sword performance troupe whose unique fighting style and technique are breathtaking to watch. They often collaborate with artists from different backgrounds and genres, always offering impressive performances.

The day’s lesson will cover the basic movements of sword fighting, including drawing, posing and swinging. Then, visitors will have the chance to try out their new found skills by pairing off for some practice swordplay.

Time:

Duration: 90 min

Optional Activity (2): Cool Tokyo Cycling Tour

Today’s tour starts at 10:00, 15:00 or 18:00. Meet the guide, who is sometimes accompanied by his adorable dog “Jack-san,” at Sasazuka Station, and head together to the cycling studio for a bicycle and helmet fitting. On the way, listen to some fascinating insights and entertaining anecdotes about the local neighbourhood, and get some useful explanations from the guide about Tokyo’s cycling etiquette and today’s itinerary.

When everything is ready, depart for today’s cycling tour. Leave Sasazuka with the guide, and cycle to the first location, enjoying the best of Tokyo’s urban design and natural environment on the way. Depending on the season, enjoy the surrounding foliage, which is especially beautiful in the spring when the plum and cherry blossoms bloom, and in the autumn, when the trees are a blaze of colour. There will be several cultural and architectural design stops along the way, where the guide will share interesting information and allow some time for photos.

Bike through Tokyo’s backstreets, local shotengai (small commercial streets) in hip neighbourhoods such as Shimo-Kitazawa, and some little-known parks, seeing the guide’s favourite areas and shops, and stopping for a break at a charming café.

Finally, enjoy the ride back to Sasazuka where the bicycles will be returned to the guide.

Time:

Start: 10:00, 15:00, or 18:00.

Duration: 3 h to 4 h

Journey: 10 km (mostly cycling, a bit of walking and light sightseeing also involved).

Optional Evening Tour (1): Tokyo Street Food tour

Today’s tour will begin at 18:00. Be sure to be hungry as this street food tour promises to please your taste buds! Meet with a local food-loving guide at the train station and set off to discover the streets on this fulfilling Tokyo food crawl.

Visit the popular neighbourhood of Meguro. The first stop is a tempura skewer restaurant. Indulge in tempura on a stick, which is the original way of eating it. Head to a well-known fish restaurant where guests can fish for their own meal and enjoy it with a cup of sake or a soft drink. Follow the guide through Meguro’s tiny alleys and discover hidden places for dessert!

While dining, learn more about Japan’s culinary culture by observing the lively surroundings and hearing the guide’s personal stories. During the evening, visit several distinctive eateries. These venues do not take reservations so the exact route may change, but the guide will ensure there is plenty to eat!

Following an indulgent evening of culinary and cultural experiences, return to the hotel for a good night’s sleep. (D)

Time:

Start: 18:00

Duration: approx. 3 h

Optional Evening Tour (2): Japan Whisky Adventure

Scotland may well be the traditional home of the wee dram, but Japan has successfully made its mark on the world of whisky distillation. The Japanese culture of taking great pride in the art of patience as well as skill and craftsmanship has ensured success, and Japanese whisky has shot to fame and become prized across the world for its quality and innovation.

Join a whisky expert and experience a range of rare, premium whiskies from lesser known brands. Starting in a hidden gem bar in downtown Tokyo, and then moving on to the next establishment – aficionados and novices alike are sure to enjoy a wonderful evening and a true journey of discovery of the senses.

Time:

Start: 18:30

Duration: approx. 3 h

Overnight in Tokyo at Mandarin Oriental  6 Stars (Super Deluxe)

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Distance and journey time (approximation): Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station: 2 h 20

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Get ready for the journey to Kyoto, home to around 2,000 shrines and temples, 17 of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With your driver travel to Tokyo Station, where the shinkansen (bullet train) can be caught to Kyoto Station.

Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, a private chauffeur will take guests to the hotel in Kyoto.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

Optional Evening Tour: Homestyle Culinary Walk
Meet the guide at 18:30 in front of the famed Minamiza Kabuki Theatre and head out into the night for stops at up to three restaurants that all include food and drinks.

Begin with a walk through Gion, the historic geisha district. When evening falls, the streets are lit by lanterns and the traditional wooden building take on a charming glow. There is always the chance to spot a few geisha as they dart through the alleys on their way to meet clients. 

Arrive at the first restaurant, a quiet members-only homestyle-cooking establishment run solo by a delightful woman with a passion for good food. This is the kind of place that is normally closed to walk-in and tourists, but the guide will have a reservation prepared. The menu here is mainly obanzai cuisine, an ever-changing assortment of small dishes focusing on daily market-fresh fresh vegetables. Look forward to cooked-to-order delicacies like simmered fish, stewed vegetables with chicken, slow-cooked miso beef, and the owner’s signature dish of lightly fried dumplings inside a slice of eggplant instead of dough. 

Next, walk over the Kamogawa River to the Pontocho District, another geisha neighbourhood. Things are a bit livelier here, and a stop at a Kyoto-style izakaya (Japanese gastropub) awaits. A young couple operates this restaurant, greeting customers while keeping busy in the open kitchen preparing their original recipes. The specialty here is duck, long considered a classic Kyoto dish, and the menu has plenty of other options as well focused on vegetable and meat dishes cooked with rich dashi fish broth. 

All restaurants include options for both alcoholic non-alcoholic drinks.

For guests who are still hungry after the two delicious restaurants, a final stop for a shime can be arranged. Shime (pronounced “she-may”) refers to a carb-heavy final dish to top off a night of eating, so that the space in your stomach can be saved for the good stuff first. Tonight’s Kyoto-style shime is classic bowl of soba buckwheat noodles. A final short walk through the district is an option for guests who are full, perhaps with a stop for a casual dessert of traditional Kyoto sweets.

After eating your way through two Kyoto districts, part ways with the guide and continue exploring the city’s nightlife independently. (D)

Time:
Start: 18:30
Duration: approx. 3 h

Overnight in Kyoto at Four Season Kyoto  6 Stars (Super Deluxe)

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Time: Start (guided tour): 9 h Duration: 8 h *including pick-up, drop-off, and transit time

Today’s tour starts with a visit to one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites: the Fushimi Inari Shinto Shrine. A lavishly decorated building houses the goddess of rice, and thousands of orange torii gates stretch up the mountainside in long tunnels. Unlike any other shrine in Japan, this is an ideal spot to understand how Shintoism is tied to respect for nature. 

Board the car to Sanjusangendo, a stunning Buddhist temple often overlooked by tourists. A mesmerizing display of 1001 life-sized golden Buddhist statues awaits inside the world’s longest wooden building, sure to be one of the most memorable sights of the entire trip.

Continue to the entrance of Nishiki Market, a long covered street of shops and stalls often called “Kyoto’s kitchen.” From traditional to sellers of tofu, fish, and pickles to shops showcasing knives and handicrafts, there is a tantalizing amount of things to see and taste here.

After lunch, travel to Nijo Castle, an ornamental palace built for the shogun in the early 1600s. The beautiful building is known for its finely painted walls and “chirping nightingale” floors that squeak under the feet of intruders. Walk the halls, see the audience chambers, and experience what it was like to visit the military ruler of Japan in the classic era of samurai. 

Hop in the car for a short ride to the eastern foothills of Kyoto. The final location of today is Nanzenji Zen Temple, a quiet retreat where monks have lived in peaceful repose since 1291. See the famous Zen rock garden whose meaning is left up to the viewer. Is it meant to be islands in a calm ocean, or a depiction of wild animals crossing a raging river? 

After a full day of sightseeing, part ways with the guide and return to the hotel or continue to explore independently.

Overnight in Kyoto at Four Season Kyoto  6 Stars (Super Deluxe)

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Time: Duration (tea ceremony): 3 h

Today, spend the morning free at leisure. It is possible to arrange a private car to tour the city with (must be booked in advance; supplementary charges apply).

In the afternoon, meet with the guide and head to Daitokuji, a sprawling Zen complex hiding dozens of small temples behind weathered walls. Explore one of these temples, taking in the dynamic Zen rock garden and learning the meaning behind the enigmatic landscape. The rich history of the temple complex is discussed, as well as the role that tea plays in the daily activities of the Zen monks. 

Enter the host’s traditional wooden home on the edge of the temple complex and begin the tea ceremony. Through enlightening explanations, the ritual of tea unfolds in a friendly and relaxed manner. Watch as matcha tea is prepared, and then learn to savour both the moment and the flavour in each cup. The host seeks to find ways for his guests to connect with the concepts of tea in their own personal way. From an examination of the charcoal heating the water to the story behind the craftwork in each teacup, a focus on details makes this a unique experience.

After the ceremony, visitors are free to ask questions about the ritual and the host’s unique style of traditional living. Part ways and return to the hotel via private vehicle.

Overnight in Kyoto at Four Seasons Kyoto  6 stars (Super Deluxe)

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Time: Start (guided tour): TBD Duration: 6 h *including pick-up, drop-off, and transit timeDistance and journey time (approximation): Kyoto Station to Okayama Station: 1h

Today take the transfer to Kyoto Station to catch the train onward to Okayama. Meet the guide in Okayama and travel to Kurashiki, leave your luggage at the ryokan before starting your half day tour of the second most populated city in the prefecture.

During the Edo era, Kurashiki had served as the hub for storing rice and other local produce in the region, justifying its name which literally means “warehouse village.” Nowadays, Kurashiki is frequented by local and foreign tourists for its well-preserved old houses, depots and canals.

Begin with a stroll through Ebisu-dori Shopping Street filled with local restaurants, cafés, specialty shops, and even ateliers. The boutiques and studios vary from traditional Japanese paper to handmade ceramics. During the walk, pass by a small statue of Ebisu, the Shinto god of fishermen and good luck.

From the shopping center, make a quick detour to Achi Shrine, a 1700-year-old Shinto shrine that sits on top of Mt. Tsurugata (a short hike will be necessary). It is said that many years ago, this area used to be an island surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea which was believed to be guarded by the three goddesses of sea and voyage. Munakata Sanjojin, one of the goddesses, is enshrined here.

Optional itinerary:
In spring, visit the nearby Tsurugatayama Park to see the “Great Wisteria of Achi,” a designated national treasure which is believed to be between three to five centuries old. Its pink flowers bloom around late May.

Descend from the shrine and continue walking towards the nostalgic Kurashiki Bikan and Canal Area, filled with traditional houses and shops with sliding doors and lattice windows. There are also a great number of white-plastered structures that used to be warehouses and a few traditional inns that add to the antique atmosphere of the area.

Say goodbye to the guide as you check in at the ryokan. 
 

Overnight in Kurashiki at Kurashiki Ryokan 5 stars (Deluxe)

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Time: Duration (dinner with Maiko and walking tour): 4.5 h

Today is at leisure to visit Kurashiki or Okayama self-guided or as an option take a tour in the area.

Option 1 : Bizen Village Walk and Pottery Experience

Today's tour will begin at 09:00 or 13:00 at JR Imbe Station. Meet the guide and 18th generation pottery master Hideaki Kimura for a tour and hands on experience at Bizen Pottery Village.
(Mr. Kimura may not be available on certain dates due to other commitments. In such cases, guests will meet one of his apprentices who can provide their own unique perspective on the craft. Inquire with a Travel Consultant for more information.) 
Step through the quaint streets of Bizen, where many galleries and small works of pottery can be found scattered throughout in the village. With fascinating insights and stories from Mr. Kimura along the way, learn about the deep history of the village and the different galleries and kilns. 

Make a stop at the Amatsu Shrine and meet the priest for a short Shinto ceremony to wish for good pottery to be made for the year. There will be time to also speak with the priest and ask questions about his life and the importance of pottery to the local community.

After the walking tour, Mr. Kimura will give a tour of his pottery kiln and guide guests in making their own pottery by hand. The pottery made in today’s experience will be put in the kiln for firing and sent to guests’ home overseas once completed. After making the pottery, enjoy some more captivating conversation over matcha tea in a Bizen ware bowl.

Say goodbye to Mr. Kimura and the guide at the station and either explore Bizen independently or transfer back to Okayama or Kurashiki.

Time:   09:00 – 13:00  /  13:00 – 17:00 
Departure:  Daily

Notes
The tour will begin in time with the train arrivals to JR Imbe Station.
For guests staying in Kurashiki, the tour start time will be from 13:00.
The pottery made will be sent to guest’s home overseas and could take up to 2 months. 
Due to his work schedule, master potter Kimura may occasionally not be able to participate. In this case, an apprentice will join to provide their unique perspective on the craft. This may be a last minute change occurring with no warning.

Option 2: Art Island Yatching

The Setouchi region is frequently hailed as Japan’s Mediterranean counterpart. Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima are three islands in the Seto Inland Sea that house an array of art museums and installations developed by renowned artists and architects, both local and international. Today, set sail to discover Teshima and Inujima Islands. Both islands, along with Naoshima, are part of the Setouchi Triennale, a festival of contemporary art held once every three years, showcasing artwork by both Japanese and overseas artists. Many installations have been made permanent, however, and thus can be enjoyed year-round, even when the festival is not being held.

Starting at Naoshima, climb aboard the private yacht for the experience of a lifetime, setting sail for Teshima. On arrival at Ieura Port, rental bicycles will be provided for sightseeing on the island. Cycle around the compact island, stopping at a variety of sights, which include Teshima Art Museum and Yokoo House, as well as other art exhibitions such as Les Archives du Cœur and La Forêt des Murmures. 

After a simple yet delicious lunch - either in a cosy, local neighbourhood eatery, or a peaceful restaurant overlooking the tranquil, blue sea - depart from Teshima and head to Inujima. On arrival, disembark and explore on foot the works of art that dot the coastline, enjoying the beautiful ocean views at the same time. Visits will be made at Inujima Seirensho Art Museum and Inujima Art House Project. 

At the end of this delightful day spent appreciating modern art and installations, head back to the yacht for the trip back, and enjoy the champagne and snacks served on board during the return journey. Be sure to take plenty of photos during this incredible, one-of-a-kind experience. 

Time:   10h
Departure:  Daily except Tuesday

Note: 
●    This tour is unavailable on Tuesdays.
●    Lunch can be arranged on the Yacht instead of at a local restaurant at no extra charge, please request this with your travel consultant at the time of booking.
●    An optional dinner on the yacht can be arranged (extra charges apply and reservations must be made ahead of time). 
●    Tour may be cancelled in case of extreme weather.
●    Instead of bikes, a private car service can be booked in Teshima. (Extra charges apply)

Overnight in Kurashiki at Kurashiki Ryokan 5 stars (Deluxe)

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Time: Start (guided tour): 18:30 Duration: 3 hDistance and journey time (approximation): Kurashiki Station to Osaka Station: 1h

The morning is free at leisure before boarding the bullet train to Osaka. 

After checking into the hotel, start exploring the lively streets of Osaka, Japan’s culinary capital. Osaka’s flamboyance, fun-loving people, and amazing food make up for what it lacks in tourist attractions.

No other city in Japan is as celebrated as Osaka for its lively food scene. Explore the backstreets of the Tenma district to find out why locals flock here after work for favourite dishes like sashimi, tempura, fried kushikatsu, and of course a few drinks to wash it all down. Visit a few of these eateries with a local food guide and discover why Osaka is a food-lover’s paradise. 
Meet the guide at 18:30 in front of Tenma Station and head out into the night for stops at three restaurants that all include food and drinks.

Work up an appetite with a short walk through Japan’s longest shopping street. The covered arcade here is deliciously retro, and the guide will bring guests into a local market to see what Osakans shop for to prepare daily meals.

Move on to the first restaurant, a working-class tachinomi (standing tapas bar) that exudes Osakan charm. Businessmen crowd around the large central bar, eating and drinking as they stand shoulder to shoulder. Guests will have a private table away from the crowd a bit, but with a good view of the action. The menu here is filled with favourites like slow cooked miso beef, freshly pickled fish, and steamed chicken with tangy ponzu sauce.

Next, stop at an izakaya (Japanese gastropub), where the main course is kushikatsu, crispy fired skewers of meat, vegetables, shrimp, and other ingredients. Dip them in rich sauce and wash it down with a choice from a wide selection of sake. Sashimi and other options are available as well.

Last up is a lively homestyle-cooking establishment specializing in yakitori chicken skewers and oden, a beloved pot of vegetables, tofu, and fish simmered in rich broth. This is Japanese soul food that pairs well with a final drink of beer or sake.

All restaurants include options for both alcoholic non-alcoholic drinks.

After three delicious stops, part ways with the guide and continue exploring the city’s nightlife independently. (D)

Note: This tour follows a curated itinerary of predetermined restaurants; however, venues and menu items are subject to change due to closures, seasonal availability, dietary accommodations, or other unforeseen circumstances. The guide will strive to ensure the total number of dining venues remains consistent.
 

Overnight in Osaka at St. Regis Osaka   5 stars (Deluxe)

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Central Osaka to Kansai International Airport (KIX): 1 h

The rest of the day is at leisure until the included private transfer to Kansai International Airport.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast