Japan Family Journey: From Ancient to Modern Times

Tokyo

Touch down in Tokyo, the dazzling metropolis and kick-off point of your Japanese journey. The inclusive arrival transfer ensures a smooth start to your adventure. As the day unwinds, meet up with your fellow travel enthusiasts at an evening gathering to share the anticipation and excitement about the immersive experiences awaiting you. Relax in your chosen home away from home, the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, and let the adventure begin.

Accommodations: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Tokyo

Begin your Tokyo exploration from the perspective of a local, traversing the cityscape on public transportation. Today's adventure starts with a rhythm and beat as you participate in a traditional Japanese taiko drumming class. Listen to the reverberating sounds of these ancient wooden drums and master three distinct techniques. Exhibit your newfound skills alongside a professional Wadaiko drummer in a stirring performance. Following this musical escapade, shift your focus to the peaceful tranquillity of the Meiji Jingu shrine, a beautiful homage to Emperor Meiji. Later, lose yourself in the vibrant hustle and bustle of the Harajuku district, a vibrant hub of unconventional fashion and youthful energy.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tokyo

Embark on a culinary journey with a cooking class centred around Okinawa cuisine, a diet known for contributing to the high life expectancy of the Okinawa Island residents. Prepare a variety of dishes with characteristic ingredients, gaining insight into their health benefits. Relish in your culinary creations for a wholesome lunch, and spend the rest of the day as you please, soaking in Tokyo's multifaceted charm. Optional Activities: Tokyo Tower Visit, Ueno Park Visit

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodations: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Tokyo

NAGANO (AREA)

Get ready for a deep-dive into Japanese culture with a crash course in Sumo wrestling, a sport deeply woven into the national fabric. Learn about the demanding lifestyle and incredible discipline of the wrestlers, understanding basic techniques and soaking in the lively atmosphere. Post this stimulating experience, journey towards Nagano, the picturesque mountain city celebrated for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics. Here, find respite in the charmingly historic ryokan of Shibu Onsen, nestled just outside the city.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Nagano

Nagano, the dwelling place of the Japanese macaque or snow monkey, offers an unforgettable encounter with these unique creatures. At Jigokudani Yaen Koen (Snow Monkey Park), observe these resilient primates in their natural habitat, whether frolicking on the rocky terrains or soaking in thermal pools fed by natural hot springs. Later, delve into the spiritual atmosphere of Nagano city, visiting Zenkoji, a 7th-century Buddhist temple housing the first Buddha statue brought to Japan.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Nagano

Journey to Matsumoto, home to one of Japan's cherished architectural marvels - the Matsumoto Castle, fondly termed as the 'crow castle' due to its dominating black exterior. As a former bastion of the elite samurai, this 16th-century fortress resonates with historical significance. The journey continues to a wasabi farm, where you uncover the intricate process behind growing this pungent Japanese condiment. If you dare, sample a host of wasabi-infused treats ranging from pickles, crackers, noodles to even ice cream and chocolate or try the freshly harvested wasabi for a genuine experience.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kyoto

Board the ultra-fast bullet train to Kyoto, a city that exudes timeless elegance having been the imperial capital for over a thousand years. Get lost in the flavourful labyrinth of Nishiki Market, savouring local delicacies such as barbecued quail, soy milk donuts, and sesame ice cream. As night falls, step into Gion, the city's famed geisha district, where traditional female entertainers, with their unique makeup, may be spotted among the lantern-lit streets.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kyoto

Kyoto

Today, step outside of Kyoto to visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a temple devoted to the Shinto god of rice, known for its iconic Senbon Torii, a pathway lined with vermilion gates. Later, roll up your sleeves in a lively cooking class and master the art of preparing a hot bowl of ramen noodles, an iconic dish of Japanese cuisine. Optional Activities: Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion Visit, Tofukuji Temple Visit

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Nara

Embark on a historical expedition in ancient Nara, where Japan's first capital was founded in the 8th century. Traverse the Todaiji temple, renowned for housing the world's largest bronze Buddha statue. Lose yourself in the enchanting pathways of Kasuga Taisha, Nara's most acclaimed shrine, adorned with countless bronze and stone lanterns, and the gardens of Nara Park, a haven for semi-domesticated deer. Round off the day exploring the quaint shops and galleries of the Naramachi district before returning to Kyoto.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Nara

Kyoto

Embrace your warrior spirit with a samurai swordplay lesson, learning to handle a traditional Japanese sword, followed by an inspiring performance by kembu masters. Post this riveting experience, visit the scenic Kiyomizudera temple, where various activities from ringing prayer bowls to sipping holy water, believed to grant wishes, await you. As the day winds down, reflect on your Japanese adventure at a celebratory farewell dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Departure KYOTO

As the journey comes to an end, depart at your convenience, taking back a suitcase full of unforgettable memories and experiences.

Meals Included: Breakfast