Ultimate four stop Japanese Odyssey

Welcome to an unforgettable journey through Japan! Our itinerary has been perfectly crafted to balance the exploration of high energy cities with deeply relaxing nature retreats. This will allow us to experience Japan’s autumn magic without burning out!

Bullet trains and big cities, peace parks and pop culture, shrines, sushi, skylines and sacred peaks, Japan has it all! This classic four stop trip through Japan captures so many of the highlights and well-kept secrets of this captivating country.

Autumn is one of the most spectacular times to experience Japan, with pleasant, crisp weather and the begining of the koyo season. We’ll see the maple ginkgo trees turning to vibrant shade of red, gold and orange. 

Days 1-3 Tokyo

Dive into the bustling energy of the capital. Explore the neon-lit streets, historic temples, Shibuya Crossing, Toyosu Market, Seiko Museum, Imperial Palace, shop the backstreets of Harajuku and stroll through the tunnels of ginkgo trees at Meiji Jingu Gaien. We will explore the highlights of Tokyo with private, English speaking local guides. 

Our local guides will not only assist us as we navigate and see the highlights, they’ll also help personalize the culture and history of the world’s largest city. Over a hot pot dinner we’ll watch sumo wrestlers train and learn about the ancient sumo culture. 

Days 4-8 Kyoto

Step back in time as we wander through the bamboo forests, historic temples, take an early morning hike through the vibrant red torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, feed the deer in Nara at the famous deer park 

and spend afternoons strolling the historic neighborhoods and street markets.

In the evenings you’ll have the opportunity to sample the amazing wagyu steak in charming canal side restaurants. 

We’ll take a day trip by bullet train to Hiroshima. Spending the day with a local historian promises to inspire with stories of how the city and people have overcome the devastation of the atomic bomb. It is a deeply moving experience. 

Another highlight of Japan is the food. While in Kyoto you’ll be invited into the home of a local family for a cooking class. Learn how to prepare and eat a traditional Japanese dinner. 

Day 9

Time for some relaxation in traditional onsen’s ( hot springs )with a view of Mt. Fuji. 

Enjoy the public onsen at our luxury hotel or soak in your own mineral water pool in the privacy of your room. We’ll view Mt. Fuji from a charming town situated on Lake Yamanaka. 

Day 10

After one more soak and more views of the majestic Mt Fuji our private driver will take us on a journey through the pretty countryside back to Tokyo. 

Optional add-on days 11-13

Tokyo Disney Resort offers a flawless blend of classic Disney magic and unparalleled Japanese hospitality. There are two distinct world-class theme parks, both featuring immaculate grounds and an incredibly immersive experience. 

Three nights in an ideally located hotel. Walk to the parks or take the monorail. Tickets for Tokyo Disney, which resembles the classic Disneyland and for the one of a kind DisneySea. DisneySea is universally regarded as one of the most beautiful theme parks in the world. It is divided into eight “ports of call” each inspired by myths and legends of the sea. I’m excited to visit the newly opened Fantasy Springs, the massive new port of call. 

What’s included:

**10 nights in a mix of traditional and modern luxury hotels. The hotels are ideally situated for exploring the highlights of each city and town in our tour.

**Deluxe breakfast each day. Sample traditional Japanese dishes and familiar favorites.

**Private local guides in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Mt Fuji. Learn about Japanese culture, history and modern day life.

**Transportation by bullet train, subway and private drivers between cities and tours.

**Some lunches and dinners as part of our private tours.

**Hotel room by Disney Tokyo & DisneySea during optional add on.

**Daily tickets for Disney parks during optional add on.

**Pre trip advice and help in planning travel.

What’s not included:

**Flights to and from Tokyo.

**Travel insurance.

**Some meals and activities chosen during free time.

F.A.Q’s

*What should I expect the weather to be like in late October/early November?*

Lovely! These autumn months are ideal for sightseeing and our chosen activities. The temperatures are typically in the high 60’s and low 70’s. The trees will be starting to turn so autumn is a beautiful time to be in Japan.

*Will I have free time to relax or do extra exploring?

Yes! Most days we will build in some free time. All of our group activities are optional so you are free to skip something or add in an alternative activity.

*Is Japan very crowded?*

Tokyo is the largest city in the world but the only large city I have visited that didn’t feel crowded. The people in Japan are extremely respectful of personal space, make very orderly queues and talk quietly as to not disturb others. This all contributes to a feeling of space and tranquility in a massive city.

*Is it hard to communicate if I don’t speak any Japanese?*

No. Everyone I have encountered in Japan spoke some English and were very gracious in their communication. We will have private, local, English speaking guides on all of our tours.

*Do I need a visa to enter Japan?*

No. If you have a U.S. passport and are entering the country for tourism, you can enter under the visa-waiver program. I will keep you informed on the process.

*Is it safe to travel in Japan? Is there a lot of crime?*

Japan is incredibly safe and widely considered one of the lowest crime destinations in the world. Respect for others and their property is a significant part of Japanese culture so violent crime and theft are extremely rare.

*I’ve heard that there are strict rules for using the onsens. Is this true?

Yes! The mineral hot springs (onsens) are a big part of Japanese culture. You will have several opportunities to use them at our hotels. The public onsens are separated into male and female only pools, all bathers are naked and tattoos are forbidden. I realize this is may be uncomfortable for some people so I have reserved rooms with private pools in each suite during one of our stops. 

*Why are the Disney days an add on?*

The Disney parks in Tokyo are amazing. They offer unique rides not found anywhere else in a pristine, one of a kind setting. While I believe the parks are a fun and refreshing experience for all, I realize that the extra nights may not be convenient for everyone.

*Is the food as good as they say?*

The food is delicious! During the trip we’ll have opportunities to try everything from the amazing Wagyu beef to a steaming bowl of ramen to pristine fresh sushi. I’m excited to have a cooking class in a private home, during the trip, to learn how to make some of these local specialties.

*Can I split the payments or pay by Venmo to avoid credit card fees?

Yes, give me a call or text and we can work out those details.

*What happens if I need to cancel?

I recommend travel insurance to cover any unexpected circumstances. The trip is refundable, minus a $500 deposit, until September 1st. You will receive a credit for the amount due towards any future Thistledown Way trip. 
If we need to cancel the entire trip due to an emergency situation out of my control you will receive a credit towards a future Thistledown Way trip minus the $500 deposit. 

*Can I call you if I have more questions?

Of course! I’m happy to add more detail or chat about the trip. You can reach me at 503~706~2587

** Our schedule may change occasionally due to weather or unexpected circumstances **

** Minimum of six people required for this trip **