Step into the dynamic metropolis of Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital and the heart of its modern and traditional culture. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be greeted by an English-speaking assistant who will guide you through passport control, baggage claim, and your transfer to the city via public transport. The assistant will help validate your Japan Rail Pass and assist with check-in at your hotel. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this incredible city as you settle into your accommodation. Telephone assistance in English is available throughout your stay, ensuring peace of mind. Overnight in a Standard Hotel.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a full-day guided exploration of Tokyo. Start with panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape from the Bunkyo Civic Center Observatory, followed by a visit to the Edo Fukagawa Museum, where life-sized displays depict daily life in historical Tokyo. Next, delve into the enchanting Asakusa district, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple, the city’s oldest, and the lively Nakamise-dori boulevard, lined with traditional shops. Conclude your day with a stroll through the stylish Ginza district, known for its luxurious boutiques and modern appeal. Overnight in a Standard Hotel.

After breakfast, enjoy a day of leisure to explore Tokyo at your own pace or join an optional guided tour. The optional “Crossing into the Past” tour takes you to the vibrant Tsukiji Fish Market, the atmospheric streets of the Yanaka district, and the iconic Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. This immersive journey offers a glimpse into Tokyo's historic charm. Overnight in a Standard Hotel.

Your journey continues as you depart Tokyo after breakfast, traveling on a high-speed shinkansen train to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. Luggage will be transported separately to Kyoto, allowing you to travel light. Upon arrival, meet your guide and begin exploring Kyoto’s cultural treasures, including the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), famed for its gold-leaf exterior, and the tranquil Ryoan-ji Temple, renowned for its zen rock garden. Stroll through the historic Gion district, known for its tea houses and occasional sightings of maiko (apprentice geisha). Overnight in a Standard Hotel.

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day or join an optional full-day guided tour to Nara and Fushimi Inari Taisha. Visit Todai-ji Temple, housing the world’s largest bronze Buddha, and the Kasuga Shrine, surrounded by thousands of lanterns in Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely. End the day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its seemingly endless rows of red torii gates. Overnight in a Standard Hotel.

Savour your breakfast before a free day to discover Kyoto's hidden gems. Explore the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the enchanting Sanjusangen-do, or take your Japan Rail Pass for a short trip to Uji, known for its green tea and the UNESCO-listed Byodo-in Temple, or to Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. Overnight in a Standard Hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic train journey to Kanazawa, a city renowned for its artistry and cultural heritage. With your Japan Rail Pass, explore Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens, the bustling Omicho-ichiba Market, and the Nagamachi Yuzenkan, showcasing exquisite silk kimonos. Luggage will be sent separately to Tokyo, so pack an overnight bag for your Kanazawa stay. Overnight in a Standard Hotel.

After breakfast, travel to Takayama, a charming town in the Japanese Alps. On your way, consider an optional stop at Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village known for its traditional thatched-roof houses. In Takayama, explore the Sanmachi-suji district, renowned for its sake breweries and artisanal shops. In the evening, indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, where you’ll stay overnight in a Standard Hotel.

Begin your day with a stroll through Takayama’s morning market, brimming with local delicacies and crafts. Later, board an express train to Nagoya for a brief stop before continuing on a high-speed shinkansen train to Tokyo. Use your Japan Rail Pass for this seamless journey. Overnight in a Standard Hotel.

Enjoy breakfast before preparing for your journey home. Depending on your flight time, use your Japan Rail Pass or limousine bus for an unassisted transfer to Narita or Haneda Airport. Depart with unforgettable memories of Japan’s cultural treasures and modern marvels. Return to NEW YORK.