Duration
10 days · 9 nights
Travel Date
May 21 – 30, 2023
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
12
Transportation
Bus/bullet train
Age range
18+
Travel interest
Sightseeing, history, culture, Japan
One of Japan’s premier DMCs, KNT’s main goal is to share the beauty of Japan with travelers from around the world. Their origins can be traced back to 1947, and they have continued to grow and innovate ever since. Their decades of expertise allow them to provide both ready-made travel packages as well as custom experiences for clients who want to have their own unique journey. They’ve proven themselves to be on the cutting edge time and time again, so you can just sit back and let them handle all the tricky stuff while you enjoy your adventure!
Get ready to blast off around Japan on an exciting city-hopping and wellness expedition. Open the gates to Japan and traverse it in style, touring some of the country's most spiritual sites and iconic hotspots as you zip from city to city. With the breakneck Shinkansen bullet train rocketing you from Kyoto to Kanazawa, Mt. Fuji to Tokyo, and beyond, you'll get to see the best of the best that Japan has to offer. Join Troy for daily yoga and meditation sessions bookending your day trips, excursions, and temple tours, and chow down on some of the best food in the world. Dig into scrumptious street food in Osaka, meet friendly deer in Nara, discover Japanese history, traditions, and culture in Kyoto and Kanazawa, discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawago, and soothe your body and mind in Hakone's spas. With must-see attractions, daily wellness, and excellent food, this is the ideal expedition for Japanese culture-buffs or travelers searching for the best introduction to Japan.
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until March 21, 2023. If the departure is cancelled out of your control, you will be alerted by March 21, 2023 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip by March 21, 2023 for a refund, excluding the deposit. After March 21, 2023, no refunds will be issued.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour (see our COVID-19 guarantee on the tour itinerary page). We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Duration
10 days · 9 nights
Travel Date
May 21 – 30, 2023
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
12
Transportation
Bus/bullet train
Get ready to blast off around Japan on an exciting city-hopping and wellness expedition. Open the gates to Japan and traverse it in style, touring some of the country's most spiritual sites and iconic hotspots as you zip from city to city. With the breakneck Shinkansen bullet train rocketing you from Kyoto to Kanazawa, Mt. Fuji to Tokyo, and beyond, you'll get to see the best of the best that Japan has to offer. Join Troy for daily yoga and meditation sessions bookending your day trips, excursions, and temple tours, and chow down on some of the best food in the world. Dig into scrumptious street food in Osaka, meet friendly deer in Nara, discover Japanese history, traditions, and culture in Kyoto and Kanazawa, discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawago, and soothe your body and mind in Hakone's spas. With must-see attractions, daily wellness, and excellent food, this is the ideal expedition for Japanese culture-buffs or travelers searching for the best introduction to Japan.
Your explorations begin here! Your first stop on your Japanese tour will be Osaka, known as Japan’s street food capital. A bustling metropolis with quirky boutique shops, electric nightlife, and an unbeatable atmosphere, you’ll find yourself at home in this exciting city. Once you’ve touched down at Kansai Airport, we’ll get you to your first hotel for check-in and chill time. Once you’re settled, feel free to wander out into the city for some light exploration — don’t worry, we’ll tour the city’s iconic attractions in more detail tomorrow. Come back to the hotel for your first yoga practice and meditation session, refocusing you after a busy day of travel, introducing you to the trip, and getting you set up for an exciting night. You’ll then be free to head out into the city. Search for some street food in the Shinsekai district, devour some local delicacies like Okonomiyaki, hit up an Izakaya, or sing your heart out at a famous Japanese karaoke bar! Enjoy your first night of discovery in Japan!
After a morning yoga session and a refueling breakfast, it’s time to depart on our first full-day excursion — today, we’ll tour some of Osaka’s famous sights. Our first stop will be the famous Osaka Castle, an impressive 16th Century walled fortress — quite the contrast to the bustling modern city surrounding it. You’ll get to see the full scope of the city from up high — scaling the Umeda Sky Building and reaching the observation deck will provide the best views of Osaka’s skyline. After a bite to eat at a local restaurant, head to the Kuromon Market. A vibrant covered marketplace famous for its fresh produce, shellfish, and unique souvenirs, enjoy trying out some fantastic street food or grabbing some gifts to take back home with you. You’ll have more time to shop and snack in the Dotonbori district, home to some of Osaka’s trendiest shops, food outlets, and aesthetic neon signs. Head back to the hotel for evening yoga and then a trip to a local restaurant will introduce you to even more delicious Japanese fare. Itadakimasu!
Rise and shine! Start the day right with some relaxing and realigning yoga and meditation, preparing you for today’s day of travel. It’s time to get packed up, checked-out, and onto our next destination. Today’s excursion brings us to the dreamy Nara, iconic for its friendly free-roaming deer and scenic temples. Grab some feed and get some selfies with these wonderful creatures before a tour of the Todai-ji Temple will get you closer to Japan’s spirituality — and your own. Refuel with lunch at a local restaurant before a peaceful meander through the tranquil Isui-en Garden and pagodas. Before long, you’ll be heading towards another scenic locale — Japan’s cultural capital Kyoto. Check out this historical city’s cobbled streets and inspect its ancient architecture as you travel to your next hotel. After evening yoga, enjoy another great meal and then go for a nighttime stroll through Kyoto, taking in its unique and unbeatable atmosphere.
Today, you’ll have the chance to travel back in time and learn about Japan’s fascinating history as your tour Kyoto. Your first stop on your day of discovery is the magical Arashiyama Forest, home to impressive temples, bamboo groves, and colorful sculptures. After a stroll through these cinematic surroundings, tuck into lunch in Kyoto, and then we’re going on a pilgrimage to the Kiyomizu Temple. A Buddhist water temple, this three-level pagoda is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most famous monuments. After reflecting on your trip so far at the temple, enjoy some free time parading the old Gion district — iconic for its Geisha, tea ceremonies, and unique shops. Want to make your trip to historical Japan even more fun? Don a traditional yukata robe and dress to fully immerse in your amazing surroundings. You’ll get the chance to try on a Yukata later in the trip, too, but Kyoto’s the place to dress up and add to the ambiance.
Hold onto your hats and glasses. it's time to strap yourself in for a super-fast ride on the Shinkansen bullet train. Propelled by magnets at headlong speeds, you'll be rocketed from Kyoto to Kanazawa in no time. When you find your feet after your Shinkansen experience, it's time to see some of Kanazawa's sights. Renowned for its ancient Geisha and Samurai districts and world-famous Kenroku-en landscaped garden, you've got a lot to look forward to in Kanazawa. Wander the old streets of the Higashi Chaya-gai Geisha district and the Nagamachi Samurai district, with an opportunity to scour the Nomura Samurai House and get up close and personal with traditional weaponry and armor. Then it’s onto your next hotel for yoga and meditation, and your first dinner in Kanazawa. You can explore the city after dinner, too, taking in its historical sights and finding some interesting Izakayas and bars. After all that discovery, it’s time to say Oyasumi — goodnight!
After yoga and meditation, we’ll check out of the hotel and set off on another excursion around Kanazawa. We'll start at the world-famous Kenroku-en, taking in its zen tranquility and understanding why it’s referred to as one of ‘The Three Great Gardens of Japan’. Next up, we’ll wander the parkland surrounding Kanazawa Castle, a partially-restored Edo-period fortification. To mix things up, we'll tour the Museum of Contemporary Art, too, and peruse some of Japan’s well-known artists. After lunch, we’ll be transferred to the tiny village of Shirakawago, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its quaint farmhouses that have stood for over three hundred years. You’ll get to see inside one of these ‘Wada’ houses, too, before we head off to Takayama. Nestled in the mountains, this city balances its well-preserved Edo-period streets and its cultural festivals. You can check out Takayama this afternoon in your own time, but your activity tonight at your next hotel will have you changing into a Yukata and dining Kaiseki-fashion — a traditional, ornate, multi-course Japanese dining style. Meshiagare!
You’ll start your day in Takayama with a full-day sightseeing tour, taking you to the colorful Morning Markets, Sanmachi-suji preserved Edo district, and educating you on the city’s history. Before long, it’ll be time to blast back across Japan on the bullet train — this time to Odawara, in the backyard of the mighty Mt. Fuji. During your bullet train trip, you'll enjoy a packed lunch Bento bo — a balanced meal popularized by Japanese schoolkids and office workers. You’ll come to a stop in Odawara, situated along the Japanese coast. You’ll be met at the station and taken to Hakone, famous for its hot springs and Fuji views. You’ll spend your night in the shadow of the mountain in a Ryokan, or a traditional Japanese inn. There you can bathe in an authentic Onsen communal bath — an ancient tradition in Japan — before changing back into your Yukata for more Kaiseki dining. Share a meal with your group in the Ryokan before calling it a night and enjoying this authentic slice of Japanese living.
Today’s excursion will take you out of your Ryokan and across Lake Ashinoko, a flooded 3,000-year-old volcanic crater. Get plenty of aesthetic shots of Mt. Fuji as you boat across the mystical lake, or wait until you scale the Hakone ropeway to get some aerial shots of Japan’s iconic active volcano. Once you’re back on soild ground, it’s time to get zoomed to your next location by bullet train. And we’ve been saving the best to last — Tokyo! Arguably Japan’s most famous destination, the country’s electric mega-city and capital will serve as the final stop on your expedition. You’ll be staying in the exciting Ginza district — famed for its upmarket shopping and vibrant nightlife. You’ll have some free time to discover this yourself before it’s time for the evening yoga and your penultimate dinner. With more exploration of Tokyo tomorrow, make sure to get a great night’s sleep!
Your final full day in Japan will have you uncovering some of Tokyo’s spiritual shrines and shopping havens. Admire the Hamarikyu Gardens, an oasis in the thriving metropolis, visit the Meiji-jingu Shinto shrine, dedicated to the Emperor and Empress of the Meiji Era, and tour the Senso-ji Temple — Tokyo’s oldest and most significant. From there, you’ll have some free time on Nakamise shopping street — grabbing some last-minute souvenirs, gifts, and unique mementos of your Japanese expedition. Reflect on your trip at one last evening yoga and meditation session and get dressed up for a farewell dinner. Enjoy one last delicious banquet with your group and toast the week — Kanpai!
Your Japanese expedition has come to an end. You've hopped from city to city, seen the sights, immersed yourself in exciting traditions and culture, and dined on delicious food. Now it's time to bid farewell to Tokyo, and Japan, as we have breakfast, check out, and head back to the airport. Arigato — thanks for coming!
Situated nearby to the Shin-Imamiya train station in the heart of Osaka, this upscale hotel is only a 7-minute walk from Tsutenkaku tower, 8 km from the 16th-century Osaka Castle, and 10 km from Universal Studios Japan, making it perfect for exploring the city and its hotspots. Chic rooms offer minifridges, kettles, and flat-screen TVs, as well as free Wi-Fi access. On-site, you'll find a laidback restaurant, a cafe/bar, a communal Onsen bath, and a lounge with a library. A great space for relaxation or to use as a base in Osaka.Room type: Twin/triple room; shared occupancy
The Miyako Hotel in Kyoto is located in a convenient spot for exploring the city. A two-minute walk from Kyoto Station leaves you in the heart of the area with restaurants, shops, and history around every corner you turn. The hotel features a variety of restaurants on-site, along with 988 guest rooms that are all filled to the brim with comfortable furnishings and modern luxuries to make your trip the best it can be. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, LCD TV, mini fridge, electric kettle, and every possible bath amenities you could ever need. Room type: Twin/triple room; shared occupancy
Only a 3-minute walk from Kanazawa railway station, this relaxed roadside hotel is 3 km from the Kenroku-en garden and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, notable hotspots worth exploring in the city. The laidback rooms feature dark wood decor and are complemented by free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, and minifridges. A cozy on-site restaurant offers a buffet breakfast, and guests can access a microwave and coin-operated laundry facility on the premises.Room type: Twin/triple room; shared occupancy
Part of a commercial street, this informal hot spring hotel is an 8-minute walk from trains at Takayama Station and 13 minutes from the Hidakokubun-ji Temple. Straightforward but cozy rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minifridges. There are five unique restaurants on-site, including a Chinese dining room and a steakhouse. A sauna, lounge, and a bathhouse with 2 open-air pools featuring natural hot spring water complete the hotel. Room type: Twin/triple room; shared occupancy
Yumoto Fujiya Hotel is an upscale Japanese-style hot spring hotel situated on the banks of the Hayakawa River in a wooded area, just 5 kilometers from Odawara Castle. This well-appointed property offers guests the opportunity to enjoy traditional Japanese ryokan hospitality in a beautiful setting, complete with amenities such as gender-segregated public hot spring baths, a karaoke room, a seasonal outdoor pool, and multiple dining options to enhance your stay. Guest rooms come in a range of options, including Japanese-style, Western-style, and mixed rooms, each offering Wi-Fi connectivity, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and sitting areas. Room type: Japanese-style; shared occupancy
Located in the vibrant Ginza district, this contemporary and art gallery-inspired hotel is only a 6-minute walk from the Higashi-Ginza metro station and 2 km from Tokyo Tower, setting it in the perfect location for exploration. Compact but comfortable; rooms provide modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, tea and coffee-making facilities, and some rooms have city views. A luxurious lounge/restaurant is also featured on-site. Room type: Twin/triple room; shared occupancy
Single supplement
Include this to upgrade your room and get yourself a little more privacy whilst you explore and unwind.
Price: USD 575
12 spots left
Private Session with Troy 45 and 60 min (to pay on site)
Hatha
Vinyasa
Power
Gentle
Super Duper Restorative
Mindfulness Meditation
Cardio, Strength and Stretch
Simply Stretching
Mat Pilates
PiYoga Fusion
Chair Yoga
Senior Fitness
Intuitive Eating Coaching - plant based lifestyle tips
Stress Management Tools
Price: USD 0
12 spots left
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until March 21, 2023. If the departure is cancelled out of your control, you will be alerted by March 21, 2023 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip by March 21, 2023 for a refund, excluding the deposit. After March 21, 2023, no refunds will be issued.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour (see our COVID-19 guarantee on the tour itinerary page). We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.