Compare Essence of Japan 2020 by Tauck vs Spirit of Japan 14D/13N by Bamba

Day 1 Arrive Tokyo

Tour begins: 5:00 PM, Park Hyatt Tokyo. A transfer is included from Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport to the five-star Park Hyatt Tokyo, occupying the top 14 floors of a 52-story tower in the heart of Shinjuku, the city's vibrant business and entertainment district. This evening, please join us for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel featuring a larger-than-life demonstration by sumo wrestlers.

MEALS : D

LODGING : Park Hyatt Tokyo

PORTOFCALL : Tokyo, Japan

Day 2 Tokyo, yesterday & today

A drive through Tokyo this morning gives you an overview of one of the world’s most dynamic capital cities, touching on both history and modern life. Begin today's sightseeing in Japan's capital city with a visit to the Meiji Shrine – honoring the deified spirits of Japan's Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, who died in 1912 and 1914, respectively – and take in a live performance of traditional Shinto music and Kagura dancing. Visit central Tokyo's renowned Tsukiji Market, the largest fish and seafood market in the world, for a walk around the outer market before heading to lunch at the celebrated restaurant Nobu. After lunch, enjoy a Tauck Exclusive – an exhilarating taiko drumming performance, including a hands-on instruction session and demonstration; try your hand at this time-honored tradition where rhythm, melody, and movement combine to create an extraordinary musical experience. The rest of the day and evening are free for further exploring on your own. Many good restaurants can be found in the vicinity of your hotel, and your Tauck Director can make suggestions for places to try.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Park Hyatt Tokyo

PORTOFCALL : Tokyo, Japan

Day 3 More discoveries in Tokyo

Another day of discoveries in Japan's historic capital includes visits to the Edo-Tokyo Museum, whose exhibits focus on Tokyo's history, culture and development from its roots as a fishing village called Edo; the ancient Buddhist Asakusa Kannon Temple – also known as the Senso-ji – in the Asakusa district, Tokyo's oldest temple; and the Nakamise Shopping Arcade, one of the oldest in the city. Following lunch at a local restaurant, join your Tauck Director for a walking tour of Tokyo's celebrated Ginza shopping district, considered among the most elegant and expensive streets on Earth. The rest of your afternoon and evening are free to explore more of Tokyo as you please.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Park Hyatt Tokyo

PORTOFCALL : Tokyo, Japan

Day 4 Cruise on Lake Ashi & a culinary tradition

This morning, board the renowned bullet train (shinkansen) in Tokyo for a short ride south to Odawara, and continue on to the scenic hot springs resort town of Hakone in Kanagawa. En route, enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi; weather permitting, see views of Mt. Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, looming over the landscape. Have lunch at a local restaurant on the shores of Lake Ashi, then continue on to your ideally located spa resort in Hakone . This afternoon, get your hands around an authentic Japanese culinary tradition during a private sushi and miso making demonstration; later, gather for a “homey” dinner at your resort.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

PORTOFCALL : Hakone, Japan

Day 5 Sculpture or whisky & flowers in Hakone

Start the day off with a visit to the Itchiku Kubota Museum, set amidst magnificent views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. Itchiku Kubota (1917-2003) is considered one of the most important Japanese textile artists of the 20th century; he rediscovered, revived and subsequently modernized a traditional Japanese kimono dyeing technique, creating exceptional artistic kimonos. The museum you'll visit today celebrates his art and legacy. After lunch at a local restaurant, you'll have a choice of excursions. You can explore the Hakone Open Air Museum, the first open-air museum in Japan, renowned for its outdoor sculpture park with beautiful views of the mountain. The grounds are the permanent home of approximately 120 works by well-known international sculptors including Rodin, Bourdelle, Miro, and Moore. Or visit the Kirin Fuji Gotemba Distillery, for a tour and tasting at one of the largest whisky-making facilities in Japan. You'll then have an opportunity to learn the art of ikebana – Japanese flower arranging – from a teacher who gives a class and demonstration of this time-honored tradition. Dine on Western or Japanese cuisine at your resort's dining room tonight.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa

PORTOFCALL : Hakone, Japan

Day 6 A farm, Matsumoto & the Japanese Alps

Today, depart Hakone and head north through forested mountain landscapes of the “Japanese Alps,” through winding valleys dotted with rice farms, lakes, rushing rivers, and small villages, and visit a private farm. Continue on to the hot springs town of Matsumoto, where, after lunch, you’ll see 400-hundred-year-old Matsumoto Castle. Arrive this afternoon at your onsen (hot springs) hotel, combining the authenticity of a traditional Japanese ryokan with the comforts of a contemporary hotel, including western-style and Japanese rooms. Your Tauck Exclusive dinner tonight is Japanese kaiseki style, yukatas and slippers on, in a private room with musical entertainment.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Tobira Onsen Myojinkan

Day 7 Old Takayama and a Sake brewery

Depart Matsumoto this morning and head for Takayama, a mountain city long famed for its artisans and woodworkers. Do some sightseeing along the narrow lanes of its historic center, and have lunch at a local restaurant known for its Hida beef. Following a lesson in sake making and a tasting at a local brewery in Takayama, continue on to Kanazawa, just inland from the Sea of Japan. Enjoy an included dinner at your choice of your hotel's restaurants either tonight or tomorrow.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Hotel Nikko Kanazawa

PORTOFCALL : Kanazawa, Japan

Day 8 Samurai legacies, gardens & more in Kanazawa

A full day’s sightseeing in Kanazawa includes: time exploring the historic Samurai District, where samurai homes are tucked among narrow lanes and canals behind earthen walls and private entrance gates, with a visit to the restored Nomura Samurai Family Residence for a look at the lifestyle of the samurai during feudal times, when they were prosperous; a guided stroll through celebrated Kenroku-en Gardens, considered among the country’s top three landscaped gardens; lunch at a Paul Bocuse restaurant; and a walk through the city's Omicho Market. Cap the day with a Tauck Exclusive, private Samurai show at a local temple, then spend the rest of the evening as you please at your hotel or exploring on your own in Kanazawa.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Hotel Nikko Kanazawa

PORTOFCALL : Kanazawa, Japan

Day 9 Kanazawa to Hiroshima via Kyoto

Depart Kanazawa by train for Kyoto, then continue on by train to the city of Hiroshima for an overnight stay. After lunch at your hotel, you have a choice between visiting the iconic Miyajima-Itsukushima Shrine that seems to float on water (a photographer’s dream) on Miyajima Island, or taking a tour of the local Mazda factory. 

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel

Day 10 Hiroshima & on to Kyoto by bullet train

In Hiroshima today, you'll visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, and the A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome) – the only structure left standing in the area of the WWII atomic bomb blast that destroyed the city in August 1945, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and Orizuru Tower. After lunch at a local restaurant, return this afternoon by bullet train to the historic city of Kyoto, where your evening is free to spend as you wish.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

PORTOFCALL : Kyoto, Japan

Day 11 A castle, a temple & a Kyoto Geisha District

Kyoto sightseeing today begins with a visit to the famous golden-topped Kinkaku-ji Temple (Temple of the Golden Pavilion), set in an ancient garden on the edge of a lake – a position symbolizing its place “between heaven and Earth.” Hear the story of how this 14th-century temple was burned to the ground by a young monk and then completely reconstructed. Continue on to Nijo Castle, surrounded by stone walls and a moat; tour this 17th-century shogun’s residence and UNESCO World Heritage Site – and discover the secret of its “nightingale” floors. After lunch at a local restaurant, meet up with a geisha expert who leads an exploration of the back streets of one of Kyoto’s geisha districts, and shares insights on the “flower and willow” world of the geishas, past and present. The evening is free to spend as you wish.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

PORTOFCALL : Kyoto, Japan

Day 12 A private home visit & traditions in Kyoto

Begin your day with a prayer at the Kiyomizudera (Pure Water Temple) established in 778; the current buildings were rebuilt in the 17th century. Drink the water here in long-handled cups as you wish for longevity, success or love. Kyoto is known as the craft capital of Japan, and many traditional arts have been passed down through the generations. Experience the revered customs of Japanese culture firsthand during a visit to a private home here; take your shoes off, come in, and your gracious hostess will demonstrate the very specific rituals of a Japanese tea ceremony, followed by a lesson in the paper art of Origami. Return to your hotel where the afternoon is free for you to enjoy Kyoto’s charms as you like. Join us for a special farewell reception and dinner tonight.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

PORTOFCALL : Kyoto, Japan

Day 13 Journey home

Tour ends: Kyoto. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto to the airport. Please allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in at the airport. 

MEALS : B

PORTOFCALL : Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Tokyo, Japan

Upon arrival at the airport, you'l be transferred to your accommodation.
Upon your arrival at Narita International Airport, meet our representative outside the arrival hall - they will be holding a sign with your name
Enjoy a convenient, hassle-free shared shuttle transfer to your hotel
Spend the rest of the day on your own, exploring your surroundings
Overnight: Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo City tour (B)
After breakfast head to the meeting point, your Tokyo tour starts at 9AM, and you should be there at least 10 minutes before departure
During the tour, you will visit the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji Temple, walk around Ginza and enjoy shopping and sightseeing in the Ginza area
You will also get to visit Tokyo tower
At 18:30, the tour will end, you should reach your accommodation on your own, by using public transport or a taxi.
Overnight: Tokyo

Day 3: Tokyo, Japan

Nikko World Heritage Tour (B)
Today starts bright and early, as you should arrive to the meeting point at 8AM
Make sure to have big breakfast beforehand, to gather the strength for the entire day! You will visit Nikko Toshogu Srine, and get to enjoy Japanese-style cuisine
You will also visit lake Chuzenji and Kegon falls
The tour will end at 7PM at the Shinjuku Station West Exit, from there you should find your own transport back to your accommodation.

Day 4: Hakone, Japan

Mt
Fuji, Hakone and Hot springs (B)
This morning you will meet up at 8AM to depart towards Mt
Fuji
Later on, you will get to enjoy Japanese-style cuisine, go on a short lake Ashi cruise, take a cableway ride up to the spiritual Hakone Srine Mototsumiya
In the end of the, at the end of the day tour, please find your way to the hotel by taxi or public transport.
Overnight, Hakone

Day 5: Hiroshima, Japan

Catch a high-speed bullet train to Hiroshima.
Spend the morning at leisure, but make sure to catch your train to Hiroshima in time
Your train departs at 13:30
Around 4PM you will arrive in Hiroshima, and you will have the rest of the evening off, to explore your new surroundings.
Overnight: Hiroshima

Day 6: Hiroshima, Japan

Miyajima tour
After breakfast head to the meeting point, to catch your bus to M Miyajimaguchi
From Miyajimaguchi to Miyajima Port Go to Miyajima by ferry
Here you get to visit Itsukushima Shrine
Depart from Miyajimaguchi Take the bus to Peace Memorial Park
Visit - Peace Memorial Park & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, visit Atomic Bomb dome
Arrive at JR Hiroshima Station, at the end of the day, please reach your accommodation on your own
Overnight: Hiroshima

Day 7: Kyoto, Japan

Head to Kyoto and enjoy a night tour in Kimono
After having breakfast, proceed to Hiroshima station by your own
Board the Shinkansen Nozomi Exp. and reach Kyoto Station
Take a taxi and reach the hotel by your own
After arriving to your accommodation, you will have some time to relax before your night tour starts
At 3:30PM, proceed to your meeting point for your next activity
Yume Kyoto - Kimono Dress-up Experience trying on an authentic kimono
Customers' clothes and unnecessary belongings will be brought in advance to the dinner venue, Gion Yoshi-Ima
Nene no Michi Take a stroll from the Yume Kyoto Kodai-ji Temple Shop to Yasaka Shrine while enjoying the atmosphere
Visit - Yasaka Shrine
This shrine is famous for the Gion Festival
Gion - Take a stroll in areas such as Hanamikoji street and Tatsumi Bridge
Tea Ceremony and Dinner at Gion Yoshi-ima
Change clothes At Gion Yoshi-Ima, change back into your own clothes
At this point the tour ends, and you should find your own way back to the accommodation.
Overnight: Kyoto

Day 8: Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Free Day
Today, enjoy free time around Kyoto.
Today is a free day for you to enjoy Kyoto on your own.
Overnight: Kyoto

Day 9: Kyoto, Japan

Today, enjoy free time around Kyoto.
Today is a free day for you to enjoy Kyoto on your own.
Overnight: Kyoto

Day 10: Kyoto, Japan

Nara City tour
After Breakfast proceed for Kyoto & Nara City Tour
At 8:30AM you need to arrive to the meeting point on your own
During the day you will visit - Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
From Kyoto you will head to Nara, where you will visit Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha) and Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Nara Nagomikan
From here you will catch the train back to Kyoto Station, from which you will need to find your way back to your hotel.
Overnight: Kyoto

Day 11: Osaka, Japan

Osaka walking tour
After an early breakfast, travel to Osaka by JR Special Rapid service trains
Around 10AM you will reach Osaka, you can check into your accommodation and enjoy some free time
Later, you will visit floating garden observatory and board a local train from Osaka station to Osakajokoen Station, here you will board Aqua Liner and get to visit Osaka castle. around 5PM take the Subway From Temmabashi Station to Higashi-Umeda Station, where your todays activities end.
Overnight: Osaka

Day 12: Osaka, Japan

World Heritage Site - Mt
Koya Tour
After Breakfast Proceed for the tour
At 8:30AM depart from Nankai Namba Station to Gokurakubashi Station (Nankai Railway)
Depart from Gokurakubashi Station to Koyasan Station
Later on sightseeing at Mt
Koya and visit Okuno-in and Danjogaran
Lunch- Enjoy Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine Lunch Koyasan Temple Lodging
Depart from Koyasan Station to Gokurakubashi Station
Depart from Gokurakubashi Station to Nankai Namba Station (Nankai Railway)
Arrive at Nankai Railway Namba Station
Overnight: Osaka

Day 13: Osaka, Japan

Free day in Osaka
Today you can enjoy a free day in Osaka

Day 14: Osaka, Japan

Departure day
After a nice breakfast it's time to checkout from your accommodation and catch your transfer to Kansai International Airport
We wish you a great journey ahead!