DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from the USA.
DAY 2: OSAKA: Welcome to Osaka, land of cherry blossoms, the birthplace of the Zen rock garden and the home of Sushi. Filled with history and culture this vibrant and lively city boasts of having the 2nd largest economy after Tokyo. Known as the city of food, the streets are lined with an array of astounding eateries offering mouth watering delights. After checking into your hotel enjoy some of these savory dishes as you tour on your own. Eat like the locals and enjoy Kushi-Katsu (deep-fried skewers) or Yaki Soba (fried noodles).
DAY 3: OSAKA/KYOTO: This morning, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast of eggs, rice, Natto (fermented soybeans) with tea then grab your camera to hit the highlights of Osaka. Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the 40th floor of the Aerial Garden Observatory also known as the Floating Garden. The innovative design, offering 360-degree panoramic views, is unlike any other skyscraper in Japan. Test your sense of gravity is tested as you’re whisked to the top in the see through glass elevator and ride the two floating escalators.
Next take a trip back in time to 1583 when Osaka was the intended capital of Japan. Known as an emblem of the power and fortune of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the Osaka Castle towers over the city. As one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, it played a significant role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century. All aboard the modern super fast bullet trains! Fly on the rails to Kyoto at 200 miles per hour.
DAY 4: KYOTO: Kyoto has had its share of troubles over the years. As the capital of Japan from 794 to 1868, it was ground zero for many wars and was destroyed by fire many times. During World War II, the city experienced some good luck. Because of its historical value, it was deleted from the list of targets for the atomic bomb and was spared from air raids. Enter the world of the samurai shoguns and sacred relics of Buddha as you explore the city’s countless temples, shrines, and other historically priceless structures. Marvel at the remarkable construction of the classic Kiyomizu Temple and experience the fascinating art of Kabuki at the Minamiza Kabuki theatre.
DAY 5: KYOTO/HAKONE: Savor a breakfast fit for an emperor before visiting a replica of the Imperial Palace and stroll through the Sanjusangendo Temple, Japan’s longest wooden structure. The temple is famous for its 1,001 human-sized statues (selfie time!) Ride the high-speed rails again and catch the bullet train to Hakone.
DAY 6: HAKONE/TOKYO: You’ve marveled at pictures of it and read about it in textbooks Meet Mount Fuji, the namesake of the Buddhist goddess of fire, Fuchi! Nothing compares to seeing this 12,388-foot mountain up close and personal. This cone-shaped, snow-capped mountain is the highest peak in Japan and is the holiest of Japan’s “Three Holy Mountains.” Mount Tate and Mount Haku complete this holy trinity of volcanic rock. All aboard the super-fast bullet train. Next stop… Tokyo.
DAY 7: TOKYO: The capital of modern day Japan, Tokyo is home to graceful tea ceremonies and breath-taking gardens. The Spring brings forth the cherry blossoms that are set against a jarring backdrop of lights. The tradition of a Japanese emperor has lasted centuries and surprisingly even survived the nation’s defeat in World War II. Secret and off limits for generations, the Emperor’s Imperial Palace is partly accessible to the public. Wonder at this incredible opportunity to stroll through the backyard of the Emperor and Empress. You probably won’t run into them, but a visit to their plush gardens and finely- manicured landscaping counts as a royal visit! The Tokyo Tower, in the southern part of the city, looms over Tokyo from 600 feet. Modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris but 20 feet taller, it is the world’s tallest self-supporting steel tower. On a clear day from its observatory (500 feet off the ground), you can see Mount Fuji. For your last night in Japan, go have some fun! Eat sushi and try to convince your friends that you are a real Karaoke artist.
DAY 8: FLIGHT HOME: Say sayonara to Tokyo and arrive home to the USA. Welcome home!
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from the USA.
DAY 2: OSAKA: Welcome to Osaka, land of cherry blossoms, the birthplace of the Zen rock garden and the home of Sushi. Filled with history and culture this vibrant and lively city boasts of having the 2nd largest economy after Tokyo. Known as the city of food, the streets are lined with an array of astounding eateries offering mouth watering delights. After checking into your hotel enjoy some of these savory dishes as you tour on your own. Eat like the locals and enjoy Kushi-Katsu (deep-fried skewers) or Yaki Soba (fried noodles).
DAY 3: OSAKA/KYOTO: This morning, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast of eggs, rice, Natto (fermented soybeans) with tea then grab your camera to hit the highlights of Osaka. Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the 40th floor of the Aerial Garden Observatory also known as the Floating Garden. The innovative design, offering 360-degree panoramic views, is unlike any other skyscraper in Japan. Test your sense of gravity is tested as you’re whisked to the top in the see through glass elevator and ride the two floating escalators.
Next take a trip back in time to 1583 when Osaka was the intended capital of Japan. Known as an emblem of the power and fortune of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the Osaka Castle towers over the city. As one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, it played a significant role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century. All aboard the modern super fast bullet trains! Fly on the rails to Kyoto at 200 miles per hour.
DAY 4: KYOTO: Kyoto has had its share of troubles over the years. As the capital of Japan from 794 to 1868, it was ground zero for many wars and was destroyed by fire many times. During World War II, the city experienced some good luck. Because of its historical value, it was deleted from the list of targets for the atomic bomb and was spared from air raids. Enter the world of the samurai shoguns and sacred relics of Buddha as you explore the city’s countless temples, shrines, and other historically priceless structures. Marvel at the remarkable construction of the classic Kiyomizu Temple and experience the fascinating art of Kabuki at the Minamiza Kabuki theatre.
DAY 5: KYOTO/HAKONE: Savor a breakfast fit for an emperor before visiting a replica of the Imperial Palace and stroll through the Sanjusangendo Temple, Japan’s longest wooden structure. The temple is famous for its 1,001 human-sized statues (selfie time!) Ride the high-speed rails again and catch the bullet train to Hakone.
DAY 6: HAKONE/TOKYO: You’ve marveled at pictures of it and read about it in textbooks Meet Mount Fuji, the namesake of the Buddhist goddess of fire, Fuchi! Nothing compares to seeing this 12,388-foot mountain up close and personal. This cone-shaped, snow-capped mountain is the highest peak in Japan and is the holiest of Japan’s “Three Holy Mountains.” Mount Tate and Mount Haku complete this holy trinity of volcanic rock. All aboard the super-fast bullet train. Next stop… Tokyo.
DAY 7: TOKYO: The capital of modern day Japan, Tokyo is home to graceful tea ceremonies and breath-taking gardens. The Spring brings forth the cherry blossoms that are set against a jarring backdrop of lights. The tradition of a Japanese emperor has lasted centuries and surprisingly even survived the nation’s defeat in World War II. Secret and off limits for generations, the Emperor’s Imperial Palace is partly accessible to the public. Wonder at this incredible opportunity to stroll through the backyard of the Emperor and Empress. You probably won’t run into them, but a visit to their plush gardens and finely- manicured landscaping counts as a royal visit! The Tokyo Tower, in the southern part of the city, looms over Tokyo from 600 feet. Modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris but 20 feet taller, it is the world’s tallest self-supporting steel tower. On a clear day from its observatory (500 feet off the ground), you can see Mount Fuji. For your last night in Japan, go have some fun! Eat sushi and try to convince your friends that you are a real Karaoke artist.
DAY 8: FLIGHT HOME: Say sayonara to Tokyo and arrive home to the USA. Welcome home!
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from the USA.
DAY 2: OSAKA: Welcome to Osaka, land of cherry blossoms, the birthplace of the Zen rock garden and the home of Sushi. Filled with history and culture this vibrant and lively city boasts of having the 2nd largest economy after Tokyo. Known as the city of food, the streets are lined with an array of astounding eateries offering mouth watering delights. After checking into your hotel enjoy some of these savory dishes as you tour on your own. Eat like the locals and enjoy Kushi-Katsu (deep-fried skewers) or Yaki Soba (fried noodles).
DAY 3: OSAKA/KYOTO: This morning, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast of eggs, rice, Natto (fermented soybeans) with tea then grab your camera to hit the highlights of Osaka. Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the 40th floor of the Aerial Garden Observatory also known as the Floating Garden. The innovative design, offering 360-degree panoramic views, is unlike any other skyscraper in Japan. Test your sense of gravity is tested as you’re whisked to the top in the see through glass elevator and ride the two floating escalators.
Next take a trip back in time to 1583 when Osaka was the intended capital of Japan. Known as an emblem of the power and fortune of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the Osaka Castle towers over the city. As one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, it played a significant role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century. All aboard the modern super fast bullet trains! Fly on the rails to Kyoto at 200 miles per hour.
DAY 4: KYOTO: Kyoto has had its share of troubles over the years. As the capital of Japan from 794 to 1868, it was ground zero for many wars and was destroyed by fire many times. During World War II, the city experienced some good luck. Because of its historical value, it was deleted from the list of targets for the atomic bomb and was spared from air raids. Enter the world of the samurai shoguns and sacred relics of Buddha as you explore the city’s countless temples, shrines, and other historically priceless structures. Marvel at the remarkable construction of the classic Kiyomizu Temple and experience the fascinating art of Kabuki at the Minamiza Kabuki theatre.
DAY 5: KYOTO/HAKONE: Savor a breakfast fit for an emperor before visiting a replica of the Imperial Palace and stroll through the Sanjusangendo Temple, Japan’s longest wooden structure. The temple is famous for its 1,001 human-sized statues (selfie time!) Ride the high-speed rails again and catch the bullet train to Hakone.
DAY 6: HAKONE/TOKYO: You’ve marveled at pictures of it and read about it in textbooks Meet Mount Fuji, the namesake of the Buddhist goddess of fire, Fuchi! Nothing compares to seeing this 12,388-foot mountain up close and personal. This cone-shaped, snow-capped mountain is the highest peak in Japan and is the holiest of Japan’s “Three Holy Mountains.” Mount Tate and Mount Haku complete this holy trinity of volcanic rock. All aboard the super-fast bullet train. Next stop… Tokyo.
DAY 7: TOKYO: The capital of modern day Japan, Tokyo is home to graceful tea ceremonies and breath-taking gardens. The Spring brings forth the cherry blossoms that are set against a jarring backdrop of lights. The tradition of a Japanese emperor has lasted centuries and surprisingly even survived the nation’s defeat in World War II. Secret and off limits for generations, the Emperor’s Imperial Palace is partly accessible to the public. Wonder at this incredible opportunity to stroll through the backyard of the Emperor and Empress. You probably won’t run into them, but a visit to their plush gardens and finely- manicured landscaping counts as a royal visit! The Tokyo Tower, in the southern part of the city, looms over Tokyo from 600 feet. Modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris but 20 feet taller, it is the world’s tallest self-supporting steel tower. On a clear day from its observatory (500 feet off the ground), you can see Mount Fuji. For your last night in Japan, go have some fun! Eat sushi and try to convince your friends that you are a real Karaoke artist.
DAY 8: FLIGHT HOME: Say sayonara to Tokyo and arrive home to the USA. Welcome home!
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT: Depart from the USA.
DAY 2: OSAKA: Welcome to Osaka, land of cherry blossoms, the birthplace of the Zen rock garden and the home of Sushi. Filled with history and culture this vibrant and lively city boasts of having the 2nd largest economy after Tokyo. Known as the city of food, the streets are lined with an array of astounding eateries offering mouth watering delights. After checking into your hotel enjoy some of these savory dishes as you tour on your own. Eat like the locals and enjoy Kushi-Katsu (deep-fried skewers) or Yaki Soba (fried noodles).
DAY 3: OSAKA/KYOTO: This morning, enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast of eggs, rice, Natto (fermented soybeans) with tea then grab your camera to hit the highlights of Osaka. Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the 40th floor of the Aerial Garden Observatory also known as the Floating Garden. The innovative design, offering 360-degree panoramic views, is unlike any other skyscraper in Japan. Test your sense of gravity is tested as you’re whisked to the top in the see through glass elevator and ride the two floating escalators.
Next take a trip back in time to 1583 when Osaka was the intended capital of Japan. Known as an emblem of the power and fortune of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the Osaka Castle towers over the city. As one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, it played a significant role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century. All aboard the modern super fast bullet trains! Fly on the rails to Kyoto at 200 miles per hour.
DAY 4: KYOTO: Kyoto has had its share of troubles over the years. As the capital of Japan from 794 to 1868, it was ground zero for many wars and was destroyed by fire many times. During World War II, the city experienced some good luck. Because of its historical value, it was deleted from the list of targets for the atomic bomb and was spared from air raids. Enter the world of the samurai shoguns and sacred relics of Buddha as you explore the city’s countless temples, shrines, and other historically priceless structures. Marvel at the remarkable construction of the classic Kiyomizu Temple and experience the fascinating art of Kabuki at the Minamiza Kabuki theatre.
DAY 5: KYOTO/HAKONE: Savor a breakfast fit for an emperor before visiting a replica of the Imperial Palace and stroll through the Sanjusangendo Temple, Japan’s longest wooden structure. The temple is famous for its 1,001 human-sized statues (selfie time!) Ride the high-speed rails again and catch the bullet train to Hakone.
DAY 6: HAKONE/TOKYO: You’ve marveled at pictures of it and read about it in textbooks Meet Mount Fuji, the namesake of the Buddhist goddess of fire, Fuchi! Nothing compares to seeing this 12,388-foot mountain up close and personal. This cone-shaped, snow-capped mountain is the highest peak in Japan and is the holiest of Japan’s “Three Holy Mountains.” Mount Tate and Mount Haku complete this holy trinity of volcanic rock. All aboard the super-fast bullet train. Next stop… Tokyo.
DAY 7: TOKYO: The capital of modern day Japan, Tokyo is home to graceful tea ceremonies and breath-taking gardens. The Spring brings forth the cherry blossoms that are set against a jarring backdrop of lights. The tradition of a Japanese emperor has lasted centuries and surprisingly even survived the nation’s defeat in World War II. Secret and off limits for generations, the Emperor’s Imperial Palace is partly accessible to the public. Wonder at this incredible opportunity to stroll through the backyard of the Emperor and Empress. You probably won’t run into them, but a visit to their plush gardens and finely- manicured landscaping counts as a royal visit! The Tokyo Tower, in the southern part of the city, looms over Tokyo from 600 feet. Modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris but 20 feet taller, it is the world’s tallest self-supporting steel tower. On a clear day from its observatory (500 feet off the ground), you can see Mount Fuji. For your last night in Japan, go have some fun! Eat sushi and try to convince your friends that you are a real Karaoke artist.
DAY 8: FLIGHT HOME: Say sayonara to Tokyo and arrive home to the USA. Welcome home!
Welcome to Japan, an amazing country filled with natural beauty, rich history, unique culture, cutting-edge technology, savoring cuisine and trendy fashion. Discover it’s bustling cities, crowded trains, eclectic nightlife, and shops filled with some of the world’s greatest electronics. The past and present come together as you stand in the magnificent Osaka Castle (the symbol of Osaka and home for the Japanese royal family for hundreds of years) and look out onto the skyscrapers of the modern city. Immerse yourself in Japan’s history as you explore the temples, shrines, and museums of Kyoto. Discover Japan’s natural wonders and be left speechless by the quiet majesty of Mount Fuji, one of Japan’s most important spiritual sites and most beautiful locations. And then there’s Tokyo! With a mix of traditional culture and a fervor for technology and everything new, Tokyo dazzles the mind. From museums, historic temples and gardens to its trendy fashion and vibrant food scene, this pulsating city leaves you breathless. Don’t forget your spending money, comfortable shoes, and an empty stomach, because you won’t want to miss anything this captivating and multifaceted culture country has to offer.
From its impoverished beginnings to becoming one of the world’s most powerful economies, Japan is a fascinating wonder. Accessible by North America and China, the location of Japan plays a key role in export, however, aside from the successful export of fish, Japan has little natural resources, and therefore their market system attributes to their success. After World War II, the country underwent a rapid process of economic and technological modernization that led to it taking a position as a leading exporter of automobiles and electronics, which continues to the present day. Japan’s auto industry, with companies such as Toyota and Nissan, has long been seen as a model for manufacturers around the world (automotive and otherwise), for its high-quality products, technical innovations, and strong commitment to efficiency. Likewise, the Japanese consumer electronics sector has been supplying the world with some of the best computers, cameras, and other equipment for decades. The country’s production industries, as well as its financial sector (led by the Tokyo Stock Exchange), have combined to make Japan the world’s third-largest economy. Their disciplined lifestyle, dedication and love for their country also contribute to the success of Japan. There is a lot to learn from this remarkable country.
TourBitz – Travel Tidbits for your international Adventure!
Official Name: State of Japan
Capital: Tokyo
Language(s): Japanese
Major Industries: Motor vehicles, electronics, ships and textiles. Japan also claims 15% of the global fish catch and boasts a low unemployment rate of 4%.
Currency: Yen
Population: est. 127 million
Fun TourBitz: Japan still has an emperor. The present emperor Akihito is the eldest son and fifth child of Emperor Hirohito who led Japan during the war. Hirohito was allowed to retain his throne after World War II, but was forced to renounce his claim to be a god.