JAPAN IN-DEPTH

A KEMP TRAVEL LUXURY ESCORTED JOURNEY

Join us in September 2023 for a Kemp Travel hosted journey through Japan. Discover Tokyo, Hakone, Kanazawa, Hiroshima and Kyoto on this custom small-group trip. Explore the temples of Tokyo and delve into the neon-soaked nightlife of Shinjuku before relaxing in a luxury ryokan in Hakone near Mt. Fuji. Explore the ancient streets of Kanazawa and learn about World War 2 history in Hiroshima. We’ll finish the trip in Kyoto, where you’ll stroll through bamboo groves and discover Japanese culinary classics. As we make our way through Japan, you will find yourself immersed and connected to the local cultures and traditions that have made Japan a world-class destination.  

SEPTEMBER 12-25, 2023

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • International Round Trip Flights (Economy)
  • First Class Accommodations 
  • City tours of Tokyo, Kanazawa, Hiroshima, Kyoto & Nara
  • All entrances & attractions as listed
  • Sushi making class
  • Sumo Tournament (scheduling permitted)
  • Zen Meditation at Kodaiji Temple
  • Sake Brewery Tour & Tasting
  • Traditional Tea Ceremony
  • Maiko Performance
  • 1st Class train tickets
  • 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
  • All transport between destination and to/from included activities
  • Local english speaking guides throughout
  • Kemp Travel Host
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ITINERARY

Day 1 & 2 | Arrival in Tokyo (D)

Our flight will leave Toronto late afternoon & arrive in Tokyo the next day. Upon arrival we’ll be transferred to our hotel and the rest of the day will be at leisure until we meet for our first group dinner! Hotel: The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo (4 Nights)

Day 3 | Tokyo (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart with our guide for a full day tour of the city. We will first visit the East Garden of the Imperial Palace – home to emperor Heisei & other members of the Japanese Royal Family. Next we will visit Meiji Jingu Shrine. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to explore Harajuku & Takeshita-dori, a great place to grab lunch before we meet up for an Origami lesson. This evening is on your own to explore Tokyo nightlife.

 

Day 4 | Tokyo (B,L)

Today we have another full day in Tokyo, we will visit Tsukjii Outer Fish Market, the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. For lunch we will see if we can master the art of sushi making. This afternoon we will visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most iconic temples, we will then proceed to the Tokyo Sky Tree – the second tallest structure in world after the Burj Khalifa. Tonight, we will attend a traditional Sumo Tournament (subject to scheduling).

Day 5 | Full Day Excursion to Nikko National Park (B)

Today is an early morning as we will journey through the Kiso Mountain range to Nikko National Park. On arrival we will observe the intricate craftmanship & enriching details at Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Shinto worship. Enjoy the natural splendour of Lake Chuzenji & Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s greatest waterfalls. We will arrive back to the hotel this evening in time for you to spend one last night out on the town.

Day 6 | Mt. Fuji & Hakone (B, L, D)

This morning we will travel by coach to Mt. Fuji. We will see the iconic UNESCO-listed mountain from the 5th station. Before lunch at a local restaurant, we will tour Hakone Open-Air Museum followed by an aerial tram to the top of Mt. Komagatake for views of Mt. Fuji. We will then get to marvel at Mt. Fuji from lake Ashi on a short boat cruise. Tonight, we will be staying at a traditional Japanese Inn, known as a Ryokan where we will enjoy a Japanese style dinner. Hotel: Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu

Day 7 | Kanazawa (B)

This morning we will take a bullet train from Odawara Station to Kanazawa. Upon arrival, we will be greeted by our drive & guide for a half day tour of Kanazawa. We will visit Omicho Market, Nomura House (Samurai Residence) & Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens. Hotel: Hyatt Centric Kanazawa (2 Nights)

Day 8 | Full Day Shirakawa Excursion (B,L)

We will travel by coach to explore Shirakwago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On arrival, we will enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant followed by a guided tour of the village, including a visit to Wada House, one of the wealthiest families and the village leaders of Ogimachi. This afternoon, enjoy some free time exploring the village before we make our way back to Kanazawa.

Day 9 | Hiroshima (B)

This morning will be taking the train to Hiroshima via Kyoto. On arrival this afternoon we will board the coach for a half day city tour of Hiroshima, including a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & A-Bomb Dome, as well as the Peace Memorial & Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hotel: Sheraton Grand Hotel Hiroshima. 

Day 10 | Hiroshima – Miyajima – Kyoto (B)

This morning will take the ferry to Miyajima Island, we is regarded as one of the most scenic places in Japan. After viewing the most well-known UNESCO listed Itukushima Shrine, the “floating” tori gate, you will have time for lunch on your own. We will take the ferry back to the mainland, where we will transfer to Hiroshima Station and take the bullet train to Kyoto. Hotel: Hyatt Regency Kyoto 

Day 11 | Kyoto (B)

Today we have a full day tour of Kyoto, our first stop Nijo Castle which took 23 years to build. Next up, we will stop at Nishiki Market, where you will have time to explore and grab lunch on your own. Known for a variety of local culinary delights Kyoto is famous for. This afternoon, we experience a Zen Mediation at Kodaiji Temple Gesshin-in. After we have found our zen we will enjoy a guided tour of Pontocho Alley. One of Japan’s oldest nightlife areas. As the night begins, bars, restaurants and a few of the city’s elusive Geisha tea houses start to welcome their guests. At the end of the tour you can choose to stay or return with the group to the hotel for the evening. 

Day 12 | Half Day Excursion to Nara (B)

Nara, situated 42km outside of Kyota, was the country’s first permanent capital city. Nara has an abundance of UNESCO sites, included some of Japan’s old Buddhist temples. We will explore Tojaiji Temple to see Japan’s largest Buddha & Deer Park. Next, we visit Gekkeiksan Sake Brewery for a tour & tasting. On our way back to Kyoto we will visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan dedicated to Inari, the Shinto God of Rice & Wines. This is one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto!
 

Day 13 | Kyoto (B,D)

This morning we will start our day with a Tea Ceremony at Daitokuji, the most famous tea house in Kyoto. Next up, we will tour the impressive Kinkakuji Temple & Tenryu-ji. We will then make our way to the famous Sagano Bamboo Grove. Afterwards, we will head back to the hotel where you will have some time to rest up or explore the area before we meet up for our Farewell Dinner & Maiko performance. 
 

Day 14 | Depart for Toronto (B)

After breakfast, the group will be transferred to the train station where we will take the bullet train to Tokyo to connect to our onward flight home. 

ACCOMODATIONS

Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo

4 Nights

The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo, Autograph Collection offers contemporary sophistication and unique style. With approximately 20,000 square meters of natural landscape filled with over 200 cherry blossom trees, this hotel offers a tranquil retreat after a busy day of sightseeing in the city of Tokyo. 

Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu

1 Night

Welcome to Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, a true sanctuary in Hakone, away from the bustling city life. This traditional Japanese inn boasts a harmony of authentic Japanese hospitality and nature. Watch the sun rise while bathing in their enormous open-air onsen with infinite views of the horizon.

Hyatt Centric Kanazawa

2 Nights

Situated just seconds from the Kanazawa station, Hyatt Centric Kanazawa is the perfect spot from which to explore the authentic art, shops, restaurants and culture of Kanazawa.  Experience this well-preserved historical city; renowned for its geisha and samurai districts as well as wonderful cuisine. 

Sheraton Grand Hotel Hiroshima

1 Night

Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel is located next to JR Hiroshima Station. Stay in luxury in a convenient location for sightseeing in Hiroshima, with excellent access to Miyajima and Hiroshima city. Spend your time relaxing and unwinding at the hotel, after your days of touring.

Hyatt Regency Kyoto

4 Nights

Experience modern luxury in the Heart of Kyoto. A lush grove of bamboo marks the entrance to Hyatt Regency Kyoto in Higashiyama Shichijo, a leafy district suffused with the elegance of the old capital.  All of the rooms seamlessly combine Japanese comforts and traditions with the customary amenities of a modern hotel.

COST

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY: $15,599 per person

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $4,000 per person

*Prices are per person in CAD. Includes taxes of approximately $2,000 CAD. Gratuities not included. Book now with a $1500 deposit. Secondary Deposit of $1500 per person is due March 10, 2023. Final payment is due on May 12, 2023. All payments are non-refundable. Out of Country Medical Insurance is mandatory and Cancellation is highly recommended – please call office for pricing. Prices are subject to change. 

REQUEST MORE INFORMATION

This luxury journey through Japan is limited to 16 people to keep the group intimate so space is limited. If you would like to join us or need more information, please fill out the form with your contact info and one of our agents will reach out to answer your questions or confirm your space and take deposit if you’re interested in booking!