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japan

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan’s cultural and scenic treasures, from the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo to the historic streets of Kyoto, the artistic heritage of Toyama and Kanazawa, and the serene landscapes of Hakone

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Day one

tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo in style with VIP airport meet-and-greet and a private luxury transfer to your hotel. Settle into your suite with panoramic skyline views before heading out on a private helicopter ride over Tokyo Bay at sunset. The day ends with a world-class omakase dinner.

Day two

tokyo

Begin the day with a private guide to explore Tokyo’s most iconic spiritual and historical sites. Visit the peaceful Meiji Shrine, followed by the ancient Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Continue to the Imperial Palace East Gardens for a stroll through the former castle grounds of the shogunate. Your guide will also introduce you to the architectural contrasts of modern and old Tokyo as you pass through Omotesando and the historic Nihonbashi area. Dinner tonight is your choice of a Michelin-starred restaurant or a refined tempura experience.

Day three

tokyo

Today begins with VIP entry to the teamLab Planets Tokyo, where you’ll walk barefoot through mesmerizing digital art installations that respond to movement, sound, and water. After lunch, you’ll join a private sushi-making workshop with a master chef—learn how to craft nigiri and maki like a pro, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The evening is open for relaxation or a curated bar-hopping experience in Shinjuku’s Golden Gai.

Day four

toyama

Board the Gran Class Shinkansen to Toyama, a tranquil city nestled between mountains and sea. Spend the afternoon meeting local artisans—glassblowers, lacquerware masters, or metalworkers—who carry on generations-old traditions. Toyama’s reputation for fine cuisine shines at dinner tonight, with several Michelin-recognized restaurants offering kaiseki that showcases the region’s pristine seafood and produce.

Day five

toyama

Embark on a private guided day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage villages of Gokayama and Shirakawa-go. Explore traditional thatched-roof homes, meet local craftspeople, and try your hand at washi paper making.

Day six

kanazawa

Stroll through the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, explore the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in a preserved teahouse. Dinner is a multi-course experience featuring local crab, wagyu, and exquisite seasonal flavors.

Day seven

kanazawa

Enjoy a guided walk through Kanazawa’s samurai districts and explore hidden corners like the Ninja Temple with its secret passages. Try your hand at gold leaf art and savor a tea ceremony in a historic teahouse. Optionally, take a scenic e-bike ride through castle grounds before a relaxing evening.

Day eight

kyoto

Travel by first-class rail to Kyoto. That evening, step into old-world Japan with a private geisha dinner in Gion, including traditional dance, music, and personalized conversation with maiko.

Day nine

kyoto

With your expert guide, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine and its iconic torii path at dawn, followed by the hillside Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Then head to Arashiyama to wander the Bamboo Grove, visit Tenryu-ji Temple, and stroll the scenic riverbanks. Return for a private tea ceremony in a 400-year-old machiya townhouse. Dinner tonight could be at a tucked-away kappo-style restaurant favored by Kyoto locals.

Day ten

kyoto

Take a private car to Osaka for a high-energy day of food and fun. Begin in the Kuromon Market and explore with your local food expert, tasting freshly grilled seafood, takoyaki, and wagyu skewers. Then head to the iconic Dotonbori district for a behind-the-scenes street food tour, complete with hidden izakayas and craft cocktails. Return to Kyoto in the evening, full and happy.

Day eleven

kyoto

Enjoy a day at leisure in Kyoto exploring all the areas you loved or relaxing in this incredible and historic city. You can also consider a day trip to Nara where you can experience the famous deer.

Day twelve

hakone

Travel to Hakone, Japan’s legendary hot spring resort regio! Enjoy a rejuvenating soak in a private onsen and recharing in this beautiful destination.

Day thirteen

hakone

Explore the dramatic Owakudani volcanic valley via ropeway, followed by a cruise on Lake Ashi—opt for a private boat for full luxury. Then wander the Hakone Open-Air Museum with a private art guide, and if weather allows, take to the skies with a hot-air balloon ride over the lakes and mountains.

Day fourteen

tokyo

Bid farewell to Japan with a seamless private transfer to the airport, departing with memories of a journey filled with elegance, adventure, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

truewander Preferred Hotels we love with this itinerary!

tokyo

Aman Tokyo

kyoto

Park Hyatt Kyoto

kaga-shi

Beniya Mukayu Ryokan

hakone

Gora Kadan

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