2022 AUTUMN TOKAIDO ODYSSEY

October 13 - 25, 2022 (13 Days & 11 Nights)

(Tour dates may be subject to change)

$100 EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
($100 deposit per person received by 5/01/2022)

Narita/Haneda, Tokyo (2 Nights), Tsukiji Market, Asakusa Kannon Temple, Nakamise-dori, Ameyokocho, Hakone, Lake Ashino-ko Boat Cruise, Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center, Shizuoka, Shiraito-no-taki, Greenpia Makinohara (Tea Factory), Nagoya, Nagoya Castle, Bullet Train to Kyoto, Kyoto (2 Nights), Nishijin Textile Center, Kinkakuji, Nara, Kobe, Hakutsuru Sake Brewery, Awaji Island, Shikoku Island, Tokushima, Awaji Ningyo Joruri Puppet Play, Awa Odori Performance, Takamatsu, Ritsurin-koen, Fan Making Hands-on-Activity, Imabari, Shimanami Kaido, Hiroshima (2 Nights), Hiroshima Peace Park & Museum, Iwakuni, Kintai-kyo Bridge, Miyajima Island, Kurashiki, Koraku-en, Osaka, Kansai 

Thursday, October 13 (Day 01) 

HONOLULU TO NARITA/HANEDA

Our tour commences this morning when we assemble at the check-in lobby at the airport for baggage check-in procedures. We will depart Honolulu for Narita/Haneda International Airport. A meal and a  snack will be served onboard the flight. 

Friday, October 14 (Day 02) 

ARRIVE NARITA/HANEDA - TOKYO (D)

We’ll arrive Narita/Haneda Airport in the mid-afternoon and after completing entry and customs procedures, we’ll transfer to our hotel in Tokyo to check-in for two nights. A dinner is planned for you at the hotel this evening. 

Accommodations at SUNSHINE CITY PRINCE HOTEL or similar

Saturday, October 15 (Day 03) 

TOKYO (B)(L)

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in this exciting metropolitan city. This morning, we’ll visit the outer market of Tsukiji Market, with a mixture of wholesale and retail shops selling Japanese kitchen tools, restaurant supplies, groceries and seafood. After lunch, we’ll visit Senso-ji (Asakusa Kannon  Temple), an ancient Buddhist temple and Tokyo’s oldest, dedicated to the goddess of mercy. Kami 

narimon (Thunder Gate), a massive paper lantern painted in red-and-black tones to suggest thunder clouds and lightning, is featured at the outer gate leading to the entrance of the temple. Enjoy a stroll along Nakamise-dori, a lively pedestrian street adjacent to the temple lined with many small shops offering typical Japanese souvenirs and a variety of traditional snacks. Enjoy a shopping adventure  at Ameyokocho, a busy and exciting shopping area with many indoor and outdoor vendors offering a variety of food products and various merchandise at discounted prices. This evening, dinner is on your own to enjoy at one of the many restaurants in the shopping mall located adjacent to the hotel.  

Accommodations at SUNSHINE CITY PRINCE HOTEL or similar

Sunday, October 16 (Day 04) 

TOKYO - HAKONE - MT. FUJI - FUJI FIVE LAKES – LAKE YAMANAKA (B)(D) We’ll travel to Hakone, a region that is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, noted as one of  Japan’s most popular volcanic hot spring resorts. Weather permitting, enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on scenic Lake Ashino-ko, a beautiful crater lake formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone. The serene lake together with a view of Mt. Fuji, Japan’s most sacred mountain, is the symbol of Hakone. We’ll visit the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center located in Yamanashi prefecture at the entrance of the  Subaru Line - the toll road leading up the slopes of Mt. Fuji. The center provides history and information on the value of Mr. Fuji as a World Heritage Site. Enjoy dinner and relax in the hot springs this evening at our elegant hotel overlooking Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes.  

Accommodations FUJI MARRIOTT HOTEL LAKE YAMANAKA or similar

Monday, October 17 (Day 05) 

LAKE YAMANAKA - SHIZUOKA - NAGOYA (B)(D)

We’ll travel on to visit the picturesque Shira-ito-no-taki (White Thread Falls) located in the southwestern foothills of Mt. Fuji. Considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan, the wide cascade is fed by the volcano’s spring water and flows off the edge of a high cliff in thin white streams that resemble hanging threads. Several souvenir shops line the path to the falls and as you walk along the path, a nice view of neighboring Otodome Falls can be seen. Shira-ito-no-taki was recently added to the World Heritage List as part of the Fujisan Cultural Site. We’ll continue our drive along the Pacific Coast through Shizuoka prefecture, the largest tea producing region in Japan and once home to the first Tokugawa Shogun, Ieyasu. Enjoy a self-guided tour of Greenpia Makinohara (tea factory) to observe the process of tea production, including a close-up view of the tea plants growing in the fields. After the conclusion of the tour, you’ll have time to browse through the shop offering a  variety of tea and tea-related products available for purchase. Our drive through Shizuoka prefecture provides a beautiful view of the southern Japan Alps, a breathtaking view of Fuji-san, and miles of scenic coastline along Suruga Bay and the Pacific Ocean. We’ll arrive in Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city and capital of Aichi prefecture to spend the night. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at our hotel.  

Accommodations at NAGOYA TOKYU HOTEL or similar

Tuesday, October 18 (Day 06) 

NAGOYA - BULLET TRAIN - KYOTO (B)(L)

This morning, we’ll visit the grounds of Nagoya Castle to visit the magnificent masterpiece, Honmaru Goten Palace, designated as a National Treasure. Richly decorated with gold-covered walls and screens, experience the fragrant smell of hinoki cypress wood and the breathtaking beauty of the architecture, gilded artworks and fittings. We’ll proceed to the Nagoya  Train Station and board the shinkansen (bullet train) to experience a ride on this high-speed train to Kyoto, formerly the capital of Japan. A delicious obento will be provided for you to enjoy on board the train. On arrival at the Kyoto Station, we’ll transfer to our hotel in Kyoto to check-in for the next two nights. On arrival of our motorcoach, we’ll visit the Nishijin  Textile Center, located in the Nishijin weaving district featuring a kimono fashion show modeled by elegant Japanese women. Observe the process of making Nishijin textiles by craftsmen working on the second floor. (Subject to availability) We’ll continue on to enjoy tax-free shopping at the Kyoto Handicraft Center, a facility showcasing Kyoto’s traditional crafts - including bamboo crafts, clay dolls, gold leaf, folding fans, and more. Dinner will be on your own this evening. 

Accommodations at MIYAKO HOTEL KYOTO HACHIJO or similar

Wednesday, October 19 (Day 07) 

KYOTO - NARA - KYOTO (B)(D)

We’ll travel to the ancient city of Nara, located at the northern end of the Yamato Plain. On arrival, we’ll visit the Todaiji  Temple Complex, one of Japan’s most famous and significant Buddhist temples located in Nara Koen - a park that is home for many sacred deer roaming freely about. Todaiji’s main hall, the Daibutsu-den (Big Buddha Hall), is considered the largest wooden structure in the world and home to the Daibutsu, an enormous bronze statue of Buddha, perhaps the most famous sight in Nara. Within the hall is a large wooden pillar with a hole at its base and local tradition has said that those who pass through this opening will find their way to an afterlife of paradise. We’ll visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara’s most celebrated shrine, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kasuga Taisha is well-known for its hundreds of stone lanterns donated by worshippers lining the approach-way to the shrine. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Kyoto city to visit  Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), an impressive Zen Buddhist Temple. Designated as a National Special Historic Site and a  National Special Landscape, this magnificent golden structure was built overlooking a large pond and provides a beautiful reflection in the calm waters. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at the hotel. 

Accommodations at MIYAKO HOTEL KYOTO HACHIJO or similar

Thursday, October 20 (Day 08) 

KYOTO - KOBE - AWAJI ISLAND - TOKUSHIMA (B)(D)

We’ll continue on our journey to the port city of Kobe, Japan’s top sake producing region due to its high-quality rice, suitable water and favorable weather conditions. We’ll visit the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum located inside a former brewery.  The museum features life-sized replicas of tools, containers and machinery used in the past and interesting video clips explaining the step-by-step traditional sake brewing process. At the end of the tour, samples of some of their delicious products will be available for you to taste. We’ll continue on the Akashi Kaikyo Ohashi, a suspension bridge connecting Honshu  Island to Awaji-shima, the inland sea’s largest island. On arrival, enjoy a performance of the Awaji Ningyo Joruri (Puppet  Play) at the Awaji Puppet Theatre. The separate arts of puppet manipulation, gidayu narration and shamisen accompaniment blend together to present a dramatic performance of a tragic drama. We’ll drive across the Naruto Channel on the  Naruto Ohashi, connecting Awaji Island to Shikoku Island, home of the 88 Temples Pilgrimage. Tidal currents between the  Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean passing undersea ridges creates uzushio (whirlpools) of various sizes and we may be able to see some as we drive on the bridge to Shikoku Island. We’ll arrive in Tokushima, capital city of Tokushima Prefecture to spend the night. Enjoy a lively dance performance of Awa Odori, the pride of Tokushima - performed by a local troupe at the Awa Odori Kaikan. Learn to dance and participate with the Awanokaze dancers accompanied by the sounds of shamisen (three-stringed guitars), taiko (drums) and fue (flutes). Dinner will be provided for you this evening. 

Accommodations at JR HOTEL CLEMENT TOKUSHIMA or similar

Friday, October 21 (Day 09) 

TOKUSHIMA - TAKAMATSU - IMABARI (B)(D)

We’ll travel to the castle town of Takamatsu in central Kagawa prefecture and enjoy a stroll through the beautiful gardens of  Ritsurin-koen, the city’s major attraction. Once the summer retreat for the Lords of the Matsudaira family, this scenic garden follows a classical Japanese design featuring pine trees winding around a series of ponds, bridges and rock formations.  Forming a backdrop in the garden is the ‘borrowed scenery’ of Mount Shuin. Marugame city in Kagawa prefecture is famous for its production of uchiwa (round paper fans) and was designated a traditional craft in 1997. These fans are made with a decorated sheet of paper or silk pasted over a thin bamboo frame. Subject to confirmation, experience making your own fan to take home as a souvenir at the Uchiwa Minato Museum. We’ll continue on to spend the night in Imabari, the second-largest city in Ehime prefecture, noted for its shipbuilding and towel industry. Enjoy dinner and relax in the grand bath at our elegant hotel this evening. 

Accommodations at IMABARI KOKUSAI HOTEL or similar

Saturday, October 22 (Day 10) 

IMABARI - SHIMA NAMI KAIDO - IWAKUNI - HIROSHIMA (B)(D)

We’ll depart Shikoku Island to Honshu via the scenic Shima Nami Kaido, a set of bridges connecting the many islands of the  Seto Inland Sea. Our drive will take us from Imabari in Shikoku through Onomichi on Honshu Island, arriving in the city of Hiroshima in the early afternoon. En route, we’ll make a stop in Iwakuni and visit scenic Kintai-kyo (Brocade Sash Bridge), the city’s most distinguished landmark. Its five linked wooden arches are built on massive stone pillars and form a span across the serene Nishiki River located at the foot of Mt. Yokoyama. Statues of Kikkawa Hiroyoshi, the third feudal lord of Iwakuni and Sasa ki Kojiro, a prominent Japanese swordsman, are featured in Kikko Park. We’ll continue on to spend two nights in the city of Hiroshima. Before checking-in, we’ll visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park. Exhibits and photos within the museum relive the history of the atomic bomb and the destruction it brought on Hiroshima and its people. The most poignant monument in the Peace Memorial Park is the Children’s Peace Memorial, inspired by leukemia victim Sadako Sasaki. Thousands of colorful paper cranes brought by school children, various clubs and groups are displayed at this memorial. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at the hotel.  

Accommodations at RIHGA ROYAL HIROSHIMA or similar

Sunday, October 23 (Day 11) 

HIROSHIMA - MIYAJIMA - HIROSHIMA (B)

This morning, we’ll proceed to Miyajimaguchi Pier and board a ferry to visit Miyajima Island, famed for its scenic Itsukushima jinja, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy strolling through Omotesando - the island’s main shopping street with many shops offering a nice selection of souvenirs, including momiji manju (a maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with a variety of fillings), one of  Hiroshima’s most popular sweets. We’ll return to the main island by ferry to travel back to Hiroshima city. The rest of the afternoon will be free to explore more of the city at your leisure. Dinner will be on your own this evening. Try some delicious okonomi yaki, the specialty of Hiroshima at one of the local restaurants located nearby the hotel.  

Accommodations at RIHGA ROYAL HIROSHIMA or similar

Monday, October 24 (Day 12) 

HIROSHIMA - KURASHIKI - KORAKU-EN - OSAKA (B)(D)

Our travels continue on to Kurashiki, an old merchant town with a preserved canal area that dates back to the Edo Period in  Okayama Prefecture. Enjoy strolling through Bikan Chiku, a historical area featuring old traditional buildings, storehouses and small souvenir and craft shops located along the picturesque willow-lined canal. We’ll continue on to the city of Okayama, visiting its most famous attraction - Koraku-en - a beautiful, spacious Japanese garden, noted as one of Japan’s three best-landscaped gardens. A large pond, walking paths, tea and rice fields, a crane aviary, and groves of maple trees are featured in this scenic garden. Okayama also serves as the locale for the popular Japanese fairy tale - Momotaro (Peach Boy). We’ll continue on to spend our last night in Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at the hotel. 

Accommodations at ANA CROWNE PLAZA OSAKA or similar

Tuesday, October 25 (Day 13) 

OSAKA - KANSAI TO HONOLULU (B)

The morning is free to explore the city of Osaka at your leisure. In the afternoon, we’ll transfer to the Kansai International Airport to check-in for our evening flight home to Honolulu, arriving in the morning on the same day due to the crossing of the International Date Line. 

Land portion based on 114 Yen = $1.00 U.S.

Map of Tour Itinerary

The tour price is based on double occupancy and a minimum group size of 20 passengers. Fare adjustment may apply for groups of 20 or under. The rate is based on tariffs and exchange rates effective 10/31/21. Tour fare is subject to change according to any airfare increase, additional fuel surcharges and fluctuation of the rate of exchange between U.S. and foreign currency. In the event of revaluation, the land portion of the tour price may be adjusted prior to your final statement.

2022 CENTRAL HONSHU SPECIAL

Featuring Rice Paddy Tanbo Art 

September 15 - 26, 2022 (12 days & 10 nights) 

$100 EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT

($100 deposit per person received by 2/28/22)

(Tour dates may be subject to change)

Narita, Tokyo, Gyoda, Tanbo Art, Kodai Hasu no Sato Park, Tabi to Kurashi no Museum, Iwatsuki, Togyoku Doll Museum, Kawagoe, Kashiya Yokocho, Takasaki, Daruma no Furusato Daimon-ya, Konnyaku Park, Hands-on-experience, Kyu-Karuizawa, Karuizawa Ginza, Kumoba-ike Pond, Shiraito no Taki, Kusatsu Onsen, Yumomi Performance, NTA Fruit Farm, Hands-on-fruit-picking experience, Nagano, Zenkoji Temple, Matsumoto, Kofu, Mitake Shosenkyo, Shosenkyo Gorge Ropeway, Iyashi no Sato, Lake Yamanaka, Mishima Skywalk, Izu Fruit Park, Melon Tasting Experience, Inatori, Kamakura, Amida Buddha, Yokohama, Sankeien Garden, Yokohama Chinatown, My CupNoodles Factory, Odaiba , Imperial Palace Grounds, Meiji Jingu, Ameyokocho, Narita 

Thursday, September 15 (Day 01) 

HONOLULU - NARITA

Our tour to Japan commences this morning when we assemble at the airport for baggage check-in procedures. We will depart Honolulu for Narita International Airport. Lunch and a  snack will be served onboard your flight.  

Friday, September 16 (Day 02) 

ARRIVE NARITA - TOKYO (D)

We’ll arrive Narita International Airport in the early afternoon and after completing entry and customs formalities, we’ll transfer to our hotel in Tokyo. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at the hotel. 

Accommodations at HOTEL METROPOLITAN IKEBUKURO or similar

Saturday, September 17 (Day 03) 

TOKYO - GYODA - IWATSUKI - KAWAGOE (B)(D)

We’ll travel to Gyoda, a city in Saitama Prefecture, known for its scenic rice paddy fields.  The main highlight is to view a rice paddy field that has been created into a giant artistic canvas known as tanbo art. Different varieties of rice, which grow into colorful stalks are planted by hand in a pre-determined pattern. As the rice grows, an amazing picture is revealed. Subject to weather conditions, we’ll view this spectacular sight from the observation tower of the Ancient Lotus Hall located on the grounds of Kodai Hasu no Sato Park.  Gyoda city is also noted as the largest producer of tabi (Japanese socks with a split toe)  during the peak of the Showa era. We’ll visit Tabi to Kurashi no Museum, a small museum that preserves the image of a tabi sock factory. Subject to availability, we may be able to view craftsmen producing tabis available for purchase. We’ll travel to the city of Iwatsuki,  Japan’s largest “Doll’s Town” featuring hundreds of doll workshops and doll retail shops.  Enjoy a visit of the Togyoku Doll Museum featuring rare & historical dolls, including dolls used for celebration by children - Hina-ningyo for girls and Gogatsu-ningyo for boys. We’ll visit the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum, an excellent garden museum showcasing the various aspects of bonsai and how to appreciate the art form. We’ll continue on to spend the night in Kawagoe, a charming town retaining an ambience reminiscent of the Edo period - thereby known as “Little Edo”. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at the hotel.  

Accommodations at PALACE HOTEL OMIYA or similar

Sunday, September 18 (Day 04) 

KAWAGOE - TAKASAKI - KYU-KARUIZAWA (B)(D)

This morning, enjoy a stroll through Kawagoe on the main street of the Warehouse District  - a street lined with kurazukuri (clay-walled warehouse-style buildings) constructed with an  Edo architectural flavor. Try some traditional Japanese sweets available at the shops lined along the streets of Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley). Our journey continues on to Takasaki city in Gunma prefecture, famous as the hometown of the Daruma Doll, hollow round  Japanese traditional dolls in various colors modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of the  Zen tradition of Buddhism. These dolls are a symbol of perseverance and good luck. We’ll visit the Daruma no Furusato Daimon-ya, a facility displaying a wide selection of daruma dolls in various sizes and colors. Enjoy a visit of Konnyaku Park, an interesting and unique theme park. featuring many varieties of konnyaku (a low-calorie, rubbery, block of jelly). The facility is divided into three zones: a konjac & shirataki zone, a jelly zone, and a  buffet and souvenir zone. Observe the production process of konjac jelly through large windows on a self-guided tour of the factory (subject to availability). Prepared in all shapes,  flavors and forms, we’ll enjoy some yummy samples of this product at the ‘konnyaku buf fet’. Enjoy a hands-on-experience to make your own konjac jelly in the kitchen.  (subject to availability) We’ll continue on to Karuizawa to leisurely stroll through the streets of Karuizawa Ginza, lined with many cafes, souvenir shops and sweet shops offering delicious fruit jams and honey, specialties of Karuizawa. We’ll spend the night in Kyu Karuizawa, a mountain resort area located at the foot of Mount Asama. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at the hotel. 

Accommodations at THE PRINCE KARUIZAWA or similar

Monday, September 19 (Day 05) 

KYU-KARUIZAWA - KUSATSU (B)(D)

This morning, we’ll visit scenic Kumoba-ike Pond, an artificial pond also known as “Swan Lake” due to the many swans that visit here during the winter season. We’ll continue on to visit Shiraito no taki (white thread) Falls, an elegant and picturesque waterfall located in Karuizawa. The falls are impressive as multiple wide streaks of water drape over the mountain surface and form a white curtain of water falling into a pond. We’ll continue on to spend the night at Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts located in Gunma prefecture. The sulfurous, highly acidic hot spring waters at Kusatsu is considered as Japan’s best and said to cure every illness. The symbol of Kusatsu is Yubatake, a hot water field considered one of the resort’s main sources of hot water and also ranked as one of Japan’s most productive hot spring source. Yumomi is the centuries-old traditional method of cooling down  Kusatsu’s hot spring water to bathing temperature. This cooling method is achieved by stirring the water using large wooden paddles performed by a troupe of locals together with the singing of traditional folk songs and dances. Enjoy this special Yumomi performance held in the Netsu-no-yu located adjacent to the Yubatake. Enjoy dinner and relax in the soothing hot spring waters at our onsen hotel this evening.  

Accommodations at YOROKOBI no yado TAKAMATSU or similar

Tuesday, September 20 (Day 06) 

KUSATSU - NAGANO - MATSUMOTO (B)(D)

Subject to availability, enjoy a fruit-picking adventure to pick and enjoy some fruits of the season at the special NTA Fruit Farm located in Iiyama city in Nagano prefecture. We’ll travel to Nagano, noted for Zenkoji Temple, one of the most important and popular temples in Japan. The temple’s main hall is nicely ornamented and contains various Buddhist statues. As an option, in the basement of the inner chamber is an underground passage where you can walk through in complete darkness in search of the ‘key to paradise’.  The key is attached to a wall along the corridor and is believed to grant salvation to anyone who touches it. The approach way to the temple is lined with many souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. We’ll continue on to spend the night in Matsumoto, the second-largest city in Nagano prefecture. We’ll make a photo stop to visit its most famous attraction - Matsumoto-jo, one of Japan’s premier historic castles. Matsumoto Castle is one of five castles designated as a National Treasure of Japan and is also known as “Crow Castle” due to its black exterior. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at the hotel. 

Accommodations at HOTEL BUENA VISTA or similar

Wednesday, September 21 (Day 07) 

MATSUMOTO - KOFU - LAKE YAMANAKA (B)(D)

We’ll continue our journey to Kofu, capital city of Yamanashi prefecture located in the Kofu Basin. The main attraction of the city is  Mitake Shosenkyo, one of Japan’s most beautiful gorges - part of the Chichibu Tama Kai National Park. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the Minami Alps Mountains on the Shosenkyo Gorge Ropeway to the viewing platform at the Panorama-dai  Station. We’ll continue on to visit Iyashi no Sato, the site of a former farming village located on the western shores of Lake Saiko, the smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes. After its destruction by a landslide in 1966, the village’s traditional thatched roofed houses were reconstructed and reopened as an open-air museum and craft village, offering local handicrafts. The village is made up of many houses converted into shops, restaurants, museums, and galleries. Each of the shops specialize in traditional craft such as pottery, tie dyeing or weaving. We will continue on to overnight at an onsen hotel in Lake Yamanaka - the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes. Enjoy dinner and relax in the hot springs of our elegant hotel this evening. 

Accommodations at FUJI MARRIOTT HOTEL LAKE YAMANAKA similar

Thursday, September 22 (Day 08 

LAKE YAMANAKA - MISHIMA - INATORI (B)(D)  

We’ll travel to the city of Mishima to enjoy a spectacular view of Mr. Fuji and the surrounding Suruga Bay (weather permitting) as you stroll on Japan’s longest suspension bridge – the Mishima Skywalk. The bridge was constructed by Fujico Corporation and opened to the public in December, 2015. We’ll continue on to visit the Izu Fruit Park, a farm that cultivates seasonal fruits such as strawberries, mikan oranges, and melons. We’ll visit the greenhouse to see the production of musk melons growing on a vine. Subject to  availability, enjoy a yummy ‘melon tasting’ experience. We’ll continue on to spend the night at an onsen hotel located in east Izu in  Shizuoka prefecture. Dinner will be provided for you this evening.  

Accommodations at INATORISO TOKAI HOTEL YUEN or similar

Friday, September 23 (Day 09) 

INATORI - KAMAKURA (B)(D)

Izuhigashi wine or Japanese orange wine produced from oranges, is a popular souvenir of Izu Peninsula. We’ll make a stop at the Izu  Higashi Winery located in Higashi city to see some of their products produced there. We’ll continue on our scenic drive along the coast to the city of Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture. On arrival, we’ll view the huge monumental bronze statue of Amida Buddha,  the second tallest bronze statue in Japan. Weighing close to 93 tons, the Great Buddha was originally housed in a temple but today sits serenely in the lotus position in the open court on the grounds of Kotoku-in Temple. We’ll spend the night in Kamakura. Dinner will be provided for you this evening. 

Accommodations at KAMAKURA PRINCE HOTEL or similar

Saturday, September 24 (Day 10) 

KAMAKURA - YOKOHAMA - TOKYO (B)(D)

We’ll travel to Yokohama, capital city of Kanagawa prefecture and enjoy a stroll through picturesque Sankeien Garden. This spacious Japanese-style garden features historic buildings, a pond, and several leisure trails. Among the historic buildings featured in the park are an elegant daimyo (feudal lord) residence, tea houses, and a three-storied pagoda of Kyoto’s old To myoji Temple. We’ll stroll through Japan’s largest Chinatown - Yokohama Chukagai, featuring delicious street food such as steamed buns and sweets at the food stands located along the main street for you to try. Enjoy browsing through the many variety of shops selling good luck charms, souvenirs, tea, herbs, seasonings and more. Subject to confirmation, enjoy a hands-on activity at the My CUPNOODLES Factory. Design your own cup and select your favorite soup and toppings to create your very own ‘Cup of Noodles’ to take home as a souvenir. We’ll continue on to spend two nights on Odaiba Island, a large artificial island in Tokyo Bay, across the Rainbow Bridge. Dinner will be provided for you this evening at the hotel. 

Accommodations at GRAND NIKKO TOKYO DAIBA HOTEL or similar

Sunday, September 25 (Day 11) 

TOKYO (B)

Enjoy a full-day tour of Tokyo, visiting some of the highlights of the city. We’ll visit the grounds of the current Imperial Palace,  residence of Japan’s Imperial Family, located in Kokyo, the former site of Edo-jo Castle - surrounded by moats and massive stone walls. We’ll view the Nijubashi - two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge at the front is called Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge), resembling a pair of eyeglasses. We’ll continue on to visit Meiji Jingu, an important shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, noted as one of Japan’s most popular shrines. At the entrance stands a massive torii gate followed by a tranquil forest with thousands of trees. Enjoy a shopping adventure to purchase some last minute items to bring home for your family and friends at Ameyokocho, a district with many indoor and outdoor vendors offering a variety of snack and food products at discounted prices. Dinner will be on your own this evening. 

Accommodations at GRAND NIKKO TOKYO DAIBA HOTEL or similar

Monday, September 26 (Day 12) 

TOKYO - NARITA TO HONOLULU (B)

The morning is at your leisure for your own activities until we transfer to the Narita International Airport for our flight home to  Honolulu, arriving in the morning on the same day due to the crossing of the International Date Line. 

Land portion based on 114 Yen = $1.00 U.S.

Map of Tour Itinerary

The tour price is based on double occupancy and a minimum group size of 20 passengers. Fare adjustment may apply for groups of 20 or under. The rate is based on tariffs and exchange rates effective 10/31/21. Tour fare is subject to change according to any airfare increase, additional fuel surcharges and fluctuation of the rate of exchange between U.S. and foreign currency. In the event of revaluation, the land portion of the tour price may be adjusted prior to your final statement.

2022 Distilled Flavors in Japan

September 7 - 17, 2022 (11 days & 9 nights) 

(Tour dates may be subject to change)

$100 EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT

($100 deposit per person received by 3/31/22)

Narita/Haneda, Tokyo, Imperial Palace Grounds, Tsukiji Market, Asakusa, Nakamise-dori, Omotesando, Kawagoe, Koedo Kurari, Ameyokocho, Chateau Mercian Katsunuma Winery Mars Shinshu Distillery, Suntory Hakushu Distillery, Shingen Mochi Factory, Kirin Distillery Fuji Gotemba, Yaizu Fish market, Nihondaira Ropeway, Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, Gaiaflow Shizuoka Distillery, Shinkansen to Kyoto, Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kirin Brewery Shiga, Mentai Park Lake Biwa, Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, Sagano Bamboo Forest, Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, Osaka, Sennichimae Doguyasuji, Kansai 

Wednesday, September 7 (Day 01) 

HONOLULU - NARITA/HANEDA

Our tour to Japan commences this morning when we assemble at the airport at curbside for baggage check-in procedures. We will depart Honolulu for Narita/Haneda International Airport. A meal will be served onboard the flight.  

Thursday, September 8 (Day 02) 

ARRIVE NARITA/HANEDA (D)

We’ll arrive Tokyo in the afternoon and after completing entry and customs formalities, we’ll transfer to our hotel in Tokyo to spend the night. A dinner is planned for you this evening at the hotel. 

Accommodations at SUNSHINE CITY PRINCE HOTEL or similar

Friday, September 9 (Day 03) 

TOKYO (B)(L)(D)

Enjoy a stroll on the outer grounds of the current Imperial Palace - residence of Japan’s  Imperial Family - located in the former site of Edo-jo Castle, surrounded by moats and massive stone walls. We’ll view Nijubashi - two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge at the front is called Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge), resembling a pair of eyeglasses. We’ll visit the original location of Tsukiji Market, with its many small and quaint shops and eateries. Enjoy lunch at a historical restaurant called Ka miya Bar in Asakusa. This restaurant is noted for their signature drink called “Denki  Bran” (brandy), served since 1882. Only the brave should try this, due to it’s alcohol content of 45%. Asakusa’s main attraction is Sensoji (Asakusa Kannon Temple), Tokyo’s oldest  Buddhist temple. Within the arcade between the main hall of the temple and the famous red lantern of Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), enjoy a shopping adventure at Nakamise-dori, a  lively pedestrian street lined with various shops offering typical Japanese merchandise, souvenirs, and traditional local snacks This evening, we will drive through Omotesando, a  quaint tree-lined boulevard in Tokyo’s fashionable Aoyama district to have dinner at a unique whiskey restaurant venue. 

Accommodations at SUNSHINE CITY PRINCE HOTEL or similar

Saturday, September 10 (Day 04) 

TOKYO - KAWAGOE - TOKYO (B)(L)

We’ll travel to Kawagoe to enjoy a leisure stroll on the main street of the Kawagoe Warehouse District - lined with Kurazukuri (clay-walled warehouse-style buildings) constructed with an Edo architectural flavor. We’ll visit Kikizakedokoro Showaguro located in Koedo  Kurari, a fun spot located in a restored old sake cellar once used by the former Kagamiyama  Shuzo Brewery. You may be able to sample various types of local Japanese sake. A delicious lunch will be provided for you at a local restaurant. We’ll return to Tokyo to enjoy a  shopping adventure at Ameyokocho, a busy and lively shopping street with many indoor and outdoor vendors offering a wide selection of snack, food products, and various merchandise at discounted prices. Return to our hotel in Ikebukuro where dinner will be on your own this evening. 

Accommodations at SUNSHINE CITY PRINCE HOTEL or similar

Sunday, September 11 (Day 05) 

TOKYO - KATSUNUMA - LAKE SUWA (B)(D)

We depart Tokyo for Yamanashi Prefecture to take a tour of Chateau Mercian Katsunuma  Winery featuring vineyards, a winemaking area and a wine museum. Subject to confirmation, samples of some of their delicious wine will be available for you to sample. We’ll visit the Mars Shinshu Distillery, a Japanese whiskey distillery owned by a Japanese ‘shochu’  maker based in Kagoshima Prefecture on the island of Kyushu. The distillery is located in  Miyada, a village in Nagano Prefecture, between Japan’s soaring Southern Alps and the towering Central Alps - therefore noted as Japan’s highest whiskey distillery. Their whiskeys are elegant, smooth, and very complex. Enjoy dinner will be provided for you this evening at our hot spring hotel in Suwa.  

Accommodations at HOTEL BENIYA or similar

Monday, September 12 (Day 06) 

LAKE SUWA - HAKUSHU - GOTEMBA (B)(D)

We plan to make a visit to the Suntory Hakushu Distillery, a unique Japanese whiskey distillery located in the forest - owned by the Suntory Group. At the conclusion of the tour, a sample of their famous Hakushu Single Malt Whiskey will be available for you to taste. Another popular local delicacy, Shing en Mochi is a popular mochi registered by the Kinseiken Seika Company in Yamanashi prefecture. Authentic shingen mochi can only be purchased from shops within the prefecture The mochi is served with kuromitsu (black Japanese sugar syrup and dusted with kinako (soybean powder) together with a  small wooden flat stick to cut and eat the mochi with. Enjoy a visit of the Shingen Mochi Factory to observe the production of this special confectionary.  Enjoy dinner and try the hot springs next to our hotel located near to the Gotemba Premium Outlet Mall this evening.  

Accommodations at HOTEL CLAD or similar

Tuesday, September 13 (Day 07) 

GOTEMBA - YAIZU - SHIZUOKA (B)(D)

For liquor enthusiasts, a visit to the Kirin Distillery Fuji Gotemba is highly recommended. The brewery is located at the foot of Mount Fuji and produces two kinds of liquor - grain and malt which are very rare in the world. Enjoy an interesting guided tour of this facility where you can experience the entire process of whiskey making. At the conclusion of the tour, enjoy complimentary taste testing of multiple whiskeys and beers in the Kirin product line. This afternoon, we’ll browse through the Yaizu Fish Market, a shopping mall with shops offering local products such as dried seafood, tea, and much more at discounted prices. The market is managed by fishing boat owners, fish brokers, fish processing companies and tea manufacturers. Enjoy a ride on the  Nihondaira Ropeway, a Japanese aerial lift line in Shizuoka, operated by the Shizuoka Railway. The line climbs Nihondaira - a scenic hill with sweeping views of the city, Suruga Bay, and Mount Fuji. Nihondaira was once ranked as #1 among “The Top 100 Scenic Spots in Japan”. We’ll access the  Kunozan Toshogu Shrine by ropeway, a shrine dedicated to the famous leader Tokugawa Ieyasu with his wish for a mausoleum to be built on Mount  Kunozan. Continue to our hotel in Shizuoka City to enjoy dinner at a local restaurant this evening. 

Accommodations at HOTEL ASSOCIA SHIZUOKA or similar

Wednesday, September 14 (Day 08) 

SHIZUOKA - SHINKANSEN TO KYOTO (B)

Experience a new whiskey experience at the Gaiaflow Shizuoka Distillery located in Shizuoka, surrounded by rich nature with its underground water flowing out of the Southern Alps. The distillery is one of the first ever to use Japanese cedar to produce their products. We’ll continue on to the Shizuoka  Station for a chance to try eki bentos to enjoy on the train (optional). We’ll board a shinkansen for a relaxing ride to the wonderful city of Kyoto. On arrival, we’ll transfer by foot to check-in to our hotel for two nights. Dinner will be on your own this evening to try some of the local specialties at the restaurants located in the train station across from our hotel.  

Accommodations at MIYAKO HOTEL KYOTO HACHIJO or similar

Thursday, September 15 (Day 09) 

KYOTO - SHIGA - KYOTO (B)(D)

Enjoy your stay in Kyoto beginning with a visit to Kiyomizudera (Pure Water Temple), noted as one of the most celebrated temples of Japan - a  UNESCO World Heritage Site. Best known for its wooden stage that protrudes out from the main hall, affording a nice view of the numerous cherry and maple trees and the city of Kyoto in the distance. The main hall houses the temple’s primary object of worship, a small statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon. We’ll proceed to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, the most important of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto God of Rice. Located at the base of Mount Inari, the shrine is famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates which straddle a network of trails starting with two parallel rows of gates known as Senbon Torii (thousands of torii gates). Kirin Brewery Shiga is one of the top beverage companies in Japan to enjoy a tour, snacks, and beer. Take a journey through the making of Japan’s top-selling Beer - Kirin Lager Beer. Kirin Brewery Shiga also produces Japan’s top selling black tea beverage - Gogo no Kocha. The Mentai Park Lake Biwa is a theme park specializing in mentaiko, a Japanese dish made of Alaskan pollock roe often enjoyed as an accompaniment when drinking sake. It’s a fun place to visit and to try fresh mentaiko at one of the shops at the food corner. Return to  Kyoto where dinner will be provided for you this evening. 

Accommodations at MIYAKO HOTEL KYOTO HACHIJO or similar

Friday, September 16 (Day 10) 

KYOTO - OSAKA (B)(D)

We’ll visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), an impressive Zen Buddhist Temple, designated as a National Special Historic Site. Officially named Rokuon-ji,  this magnificent golden structure sits serenely on a lake, providing a beautiful reflection in the calm waters. We’ll travel to Arashiyama, a picturesque district located in the western outskirts of Kyoto, noted as a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. The area of Sagano is located north of the Togetsukyo Bridge (Moon Crossing Bridge), best known for its beautiful Sagano Bamboo Forest. Enjoy a stroll on the walking path that weaves through the scenic bamboo groves. The sound of the wind in the groves has been voted as “one-hundred-must-be-preserved-sounds of Japan”  by the Japanese government. The Suntory Yamazaki Distillery is the birthplace of Japanese whiskey and Japan’s first and oldest malt whiskey distillery established by Suntory’s founder Shinjiro Torii in 1923. Inspired by traditional Scottish whiskey, he envisioned an approach to choose a terrain and climate completely different to those of Scotland to create a unique kind of whiskey. We’ll travel to Osaka, Japan’s food capital to spend our last night. Enjoy dinner this evening at the hotel. 

Accommodations at HOTEL VISCHIO OSAKA BY GRANVIA or similar

Saturday, September 17 (Day 11 

OSAKA - KANSAI (B)

This morning is free for your own last minute browsing adventures, but some of you who are interested, can join us for a ride by local train from Umeda  Station to Namba Station to enjoy a stroll through Sennichimae Doguyasuji (cooking tool shopping street), where you may discover many interesting and unique kitchenware. We’ll board a local train back to Umeda Station In the afternoon, we’ll transfer by coach to Kansai International Airport for our flight home to Honolulu, arriving in the evening on the same day due to the crossing of the International Dateline.  

Land portion based on 114 Yen = $1.00 U.S.

Map of Tour Itinerary

The tour price is based on double occupancy and a minimum group size of 20 passengers. Fare adjustment may apply for groups of 20 or under. The rate is based on tariffs and exchange rates effective 10/31/21. Tour fare is subject to change according to any airfare increase, additional fuel surcharges and fluctuation of the rate of exchange between U.S. and foreign currency. In the event of revaluation, the land portion of the tour price may be adjusted prior to your final statement.