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!
Educational and Performance Tours to Japan
Immerse your travelers in a unique travel experience that will ignite their creative spirit and leave everyone in awe. From ancient temples resonating with serenity to bustling metropolises pulsating with vibrant energy, Japan offers an exceptional blend of tradition and modernity, making it the perfect destination for your next tour.
Begin your upcoming tour in Tokyo, the heart of Japan’s cultural scene. Witness the magic of the prestigious Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall, renowned for its acoustics. As you explore this cosmopolitan capital, marvel at the futuristic skyline from Tokyo Tower or venture into the serene gardens of the Imperial Palace, where tranquility and inspiration await.
Next, set your sights on Kyoto, the cultural epicenter of Japan. Discover the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a sacred atmosphere. Engage in a traditional tea ceremony or stroll through the vibrant streets of Gion, where geishas gracefully traverse the historic alleys, transporting you to a bygone era of elegance and refinement.
No journey to Japan would be complete without a visit to the mesmerizing city of Hiroshima. Pay homage to the profound history of the Peace Memorial Park, where your ensemble can deliver a moving performance in remembrance of the past while embracing a hopeful future. Be inspired by the resilience of the people and the city’s vibrant cultural scene as you explore the Hiroshima Castle or sample the delectable Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
Finally, immerse your ensemble in the natural splendor of Hakone, a picturesque town nestled in the foothills of Mount Fuji. Experience a traditional onsen (hot spring) to rejuvenate your senses before concluding your trip in Japan.
Let the country’s vibrant cities, ancient temples, and natural wonders set the stage for your next international tour.
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.