Majestic Japan with Luxury Gold
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Snapshot
- 11 Days
- Guided Tour
- Osaka, Japan to Tokyo, Japan
- Multiple departures
From
$13,150*
per person twin share
Overview
Be captivated by the beauty and traditions of Japan during this 11-day guided tour. Travel to Kyoto, a cultural hub for the country, where you can bask in the serenity surrounding the iconic Golden Pavilion. See the Giouji Temple — a Buddhist place of worship set amidst a moss-covered forest — and feast on a traditional Kyo-Kaiseki lunch as you watch an apprentice geisha perform beside you.
In Tokyo, choose to make decadent sushi rolls using the finest quality fish during a private cooking class or join a Local Expert and explore the fashionable Omotesando and Harajuku neighborhoods before sampling a local lunch. Then discover the river valley of the Oirase Gorge, walking along its crystal-clear waters while marveling at the amber leaves that surround you. Later, journey to a local brewery for a private sake tasting and behind-the-scenes tour, led by a sake brew master.
*Advertised price based on 19 June 2024 and 3 July 2024
Inclusions
PASSPORT MOMENTS
- Meet a Survivor of the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb
- Kyoto Highlight Lunch with Geisha Performance
- Meet a traditional Inn Owner at Matsushima Bay
- Oirase Private sake Tasting with Brew Master
- Oirase Keiryu
CONCIERGE SERVICES ON EVERY JOURNEY
- Access to a travel concierge
- Door-to-Door transfers
- Full service porterage
- Smal group tours with 20 guests on average
- Personalise your journey with included choices
INCLUSIVE LUXURY GOLD SERVICES
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Your Travel Concierge
Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
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Local Expert Guides
In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.
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In-Room Porterage
Included at all hotels.
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Taxes & Tipping
Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included
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Meals & Dining
Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
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Complimentary Room Service
On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.
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WiFi
Enjoy complimentary hotel WiFi. And, on select coaches, onboard WiFi may also be available.
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Airport Transfers
Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.
Itinerary
Pre Departure
Your Included Pre-Departure Services. Private Door-to-Door Transfer. Your complimentary, private transfer takes you to your local departure airport.
Day 1: Welcome to Osaka, Japan (Osaka)
Begin your Japan luxury tour by journeying to your five-star hotel. Located in the heart of the city, on the banks of the Okawa River and famous for cherry blossom viewing in the spring. Pop into the hotel’s Old Imperial Bar whose classic decor pays homage to Tokyo’s original Imperial Hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Tonight, awaken your tastebuds with tempura and sushi over stunning views over Osaka’s skyline. Included Dining: Dinner. Hotel: Imperial Hotel Osaka
Day 2: Highlights of Osaka (Osaka)
Get your bearings in Osaka’s hub of cutting-edge architecture by taking in 360-degree city views from the Floating Garden Observatory in Umeda Sky. Take the floating escalator or glass elevator to the donut-shaped observatory at the top of this 40-story-high skyscraper to watch the city unfold below. From great heights to tempting bites, discover Osaka’s foodie hub of Dotonbori Street on a walking tour with your Travel Concierge. Try the local specialty of ground octopus wrapped in batter called Takoyaki. Continue your exploration of striking architecture at Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks and pivotal in the reunification of Japan during the 16th century, before enjoying a two-course lunch near the castle. Included Dining: Breakfast Hotel: Imperial Hotel Osaka
Day 3: A Local prespective on Hiroshima (Osaka - Hiroshima - Kyoto)
Travel in style - and as the locals do - arriving in Hiroshima by Shinkansen (bullet train), zipping past small towns, rice fields and snow-capped mountains on your swift and comfortable journey. In Hiroshima, explore the UNESCO Peace Memorial Park and Museum, the only structure left standing after the first atomic bomb was dropped during World War II. Enhance your experience by meeting a survivor who will share moving, personal insights. After a reflective morning, indulge in savory Okonomiyaki pancakes popular in the region before taking the shinkansen to Kyoto, known for thousands of years as the Imperial capital of Japan. Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch. Hotel: The Thousands
Day 4: The Temples and Geisha of Kyoyo (Kyoto)
Uncover Kyoto’s ancient traditions and revered culture on a city tour with your Travel Concierge before marvelling at the Zen Buddhist temple Kinkakuji’s famed Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of classic architecture and expansive gardens. Discover a vastly different type of temple at Giouji Temple where a grove of indigenous bamboo and maple trees invite you to linger before learning about the local folklore and exploring the temple's thatched hut. In the Gion district, dine on classic Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine and appreciate the talents of a Maiko, an apprentice geisha. Central to Kyoto culture, geisha are highly skilled entertainers specializing in classical music, dance, conversation and games. Embark on a walk around the vibrant Gion neighborhood, Kyoto's primary geisha district, and perhaps enjoy the local teahouses, lantern-lit restaurants and bars. Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch. Hotel: The Thousands
Day 5: Mt. Fuji and onto Tokyo (Kyoto - Mt. Fuji - Tokyo)
Jet set to Mishima on the bullet train for views of the majestic Mount Fuji over lunch at a local restaurant. Personalise your day before travelling to Tokyo: Visit Itchiku Kubota Art Museum devoted to the artist who revived the lost art of Tsujigahana, a labor-intensive silk dyeing technique used to decorate kimonos. In this impressive setting, wander the serene gardens and admire the collection of beautiful kimonos depicting themes of nature and the seasons. Or, revel in more mountain and lake views taking the Kachi-Kachi Ropeway cable car to the peak of Mount Tenjo. Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch. Hotel: Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel
Day 6: Explore Traditional Tokyo (Tokyo)
Explore two of Tokyo’s most notable landmarks, the Tokyo National Museum’s large collection of artwork and artifacts from Asia and the sprawling gardens surrounding Meiji Jingu Shrine. Dive into Tokyo culture your way through a culinary or fashion-focused exploration. Learn the art of sushi-making using the highest quality fish with a Japanese Master Sushi Chef before savoring lunch and strolling Ginza, the Champs-Élysées of Tokyo. Or, join a Local Expert venturing to the wide, tree-lined, high-end shopping boulevard of Omotesando and bustling Harajuku known for its quirky and cutting-edge fashion before indulging in lunch. Tailor your evening at one of two hand-picked restaurants, each specializing in the local delicacies of Shabu-shabu hot pot or Teppanyaki freshly grilled vegetables. Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Hotel: Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel
Day 7: Journey to Sendai (Tokyo - Sendai)
Journey north to Sendai, the City of Trees and a true locals’, off-the-beaten path region. Hear insights into life on one of Sendai’s many islands, joining the owner of a local inn for a lunch of fresh seafood. Immerse yourself in the spectacular surroundings on a private cruise showing off the impressive views of Matsushima Bay pine-covered islands which have been featured in Japanese poetry since ancient times. Dive further into ancient culture as you take part in a traditional tea ceremony, a treasured ritual dating back a thousand years. Be amazed at the step-by-step ritual from entering the teahouse to taking your seat to pouring and sipping the perfect cup of matcha tea. Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch. Hotel: The Westin Sendai
Day 8: Tsugaru and Hirosaki Castle (Sendai - Oirase Gorge)
Travel by bullet train to Neputa Village where you’re invited to Hirosaki Castle to learn the stories behind the blooms from a cherry blossom doctor. Learn how his team nurtures these beautiful trees from sapling to maturity and ensure all the cherry blossoms of the region are strong, healthy and able to thrive during the fleeting cherry blossom season. Explore the Tsugaru-han Neputa Village to see the colorful decorations used during the summer Neputa Festival and watch skilled craftsman at work who spend a month lacquering to create the perfect chopsticks. Admire more of the traditional arts as you sit down to a private performance of traditional Tsugaru Shamisen guitar and thundering and expressive Taiko drumming. Today’s journey concludes at the beautiful and peaceful Oirase Gorge. Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Hotel: Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel
Day 9: Exploring Oirase (Oirase Gorge)
Discover one of Japan’s most-revered nature haven of Oirase Gorge. Stroll along the crystal-clear Oirase Keiryu stream, admire the cascading waterfalls and marvel at the seasonal colours of the indigenous forest from the lush greens of spring to the fiery hues of autumn. After a lunch of local and seasonal ingredients, perhaps enjoy a soul soothing Onsen bath in the nearby forest, immersed in the serenity with only the distant sounds of nature to accompany you. End the day in the company of sake brew master Takumi Sato for a private, VIP tasting of this national alcoholic beverage made from fermenting rice and a tour of his local brewery. Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Hotel: Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel
Day 10: The Highlights of Tokyo (Oirase - Tokyo)
Returning to Tokyo by bullet train for your final night in this bustling city of neighborhoods. Explore Askusa neighborhood’s Senso-ji Buddhist Temple, the oldest temple in Japan, entering through the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), the symbol of Asakusa and the city of Tokyo. Soak in more of traditional Tokyo with a stroll down Nakamise Street, dating back to the 17th century, where colorful Japanese souvenirs of traditional dress such as yukata and folding fans are on display. Explore neighboring Kappabashi street, Tokyo’s foodie hub, for a quick bite before a memorable evening of culinary highlights. Celebrate your travels with a fine dining experience at Hoshinonaruki where each dish is elegantly prepared and presented to showcase the stellar ingredients. Included Dining: Breakfast, Dinner. Hotel: Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel
Day 11: Farewell Jpan (Tokyo)
Your Osaka to Tokyo luxury tour ends in style with your private car to Narita or Haneda International Airport for your onward journey. Included Dining: Breakfast
Important Note:
The above itinerary is correct at time of writing however is subject to change at any time without notice due to operational requirements.
Prices
Start Date: | End Date | Definite Departure: |
Price Form (twin/double share): |
10 Mar 24 | 20 Mar 24 | Yes | $13,175pp |
03 Apr 24 | 13 Apr 24 | Yes | $14,350pp |
17 Apr 24 | 27 Apr 24 | Yes | $13,550pp |
24 Apr 24 | 04 May 24 | Yes | $13,550pp |
19 Jun 24 | 29 Jun 24 | Yes | $13,150pp |
03 Jul 24 | 13 Jul 24 | $13,150pp | |
21 Jul 24 | 31 Jul 24 | Yes | $13,175pp |
18 Aug 24 | 28 Aug 24 | $13,175pp | |
01 Sep 24 | 11 Sep 24 | $13,175pp | |
25 Sep 24 | 05 Oct 24 | Yes | $13,550pp |
02 Oct 24 | 12 Oct 24 | Yes | $13,550pp |
27 Oct 24 | 06 Nov 24 | $13,550pp | |
06 Nov 24 | 16 Nov 24 | Yes | $13,550pp |
Based on 19 June 2024 or 3 July 2024 departure. Additional departure dates available in 2025*
* Term and conditions apply:
All pricing subject to change and availability.
Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change.
Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies.
Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.