Discovery of the Autumn Color of Japan

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival - Tokyo

  Welcome to Japan!

  After the plane lands, get to the hotel at your own pace and enjoy the remaining day to yourself. Whether you want to relax in your room or venture out, it's up to you.

  Optional: Private transfer from the airport to the hotel is available at request and extra cost.

  Accommodation: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

  • Tokyo

• Day 2: Tokyo Day Tour

  Meet your guide at the designated time and begin your city exploration at Tsukiji Outer Market. Wander through the lively alleys filled with fresh seafood, local delicacies, and traditional Japanese snacks. Enjoy an authentic street food experience (your own account) as you explore the vibrant market atmosphere.

  Continue to Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled within a lush forest that transforms into shades of gold and amber in autumn. Walk through the towering torii gate and admire the serene wooden structures while observing locals paying homage to Emperor Meiji, who played a pivotal role in Japan's modernization.

  Stroll along the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue, a breathtaking boulevard lined with symmetrical rows of golden ginkgo trees, creating a stunning autumn tunnel. This picture-perfect spot is one of Tokyo's most celebrated foliage viewing locations.

  At noon, visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where Japanese maples and cherry trees display vivid shades of red and orange. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the traditional Japanese garden, French garden, and English landscape garden, each offering a unique perspective of autumn's beauty. If visiting in early November, admire the seasonal chrysanthemum displays in full bloom.

  Wrap up the day with an optional visit to Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, where you can take in panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline with a backdrop of autumn foliage from an observation deck high above the city.

  Return to your hotel, concluding a day of seasonal beauty and cultural exploration.

  Travel Style: Private English-speaking guide + Private Vehicle

  Accommodation: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

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  • Tokyo

• Day 3: Kawaguchiko Tour With Vista of Mt. Fuji

  Escape the city and journey into the heart of Japan's autumn splendor as your driver whisks you away on a scenic 1.5-hour transfer to Hakone, a mountainous retreat ablaze with fiery maple and golden ginkgo leaves. Upon arrival, embark on a tour of this breathtaking region, stopping at Arakurayama Sengen Park for its postcard-perfect view of Mount Fuji dyed colorful by vibrant fall foliage. Continue to the nearby Maple Corridor (Momiji Kairou), a picturesque path lined with rows of maple trees that turn brilliant shades of red and orange. This peaceful walk offers an ideal opportunity to soak in the splendor of the season.

  Next, set sail across the shimmering Lake Ashinoko aboard a replica pirate ship, where the mirror-like water reflects the warm autumn hues along the shoreline. As you cruise, your guide will share fascinating stories of Hakone's volcanic past and samurai history. Conclude your adventure with a ride on the Hakone Tozan Switchback Train, winding through mountains painted in rich autumn tones. Finally, your guide will escort you to your hotel, where you can unwind and soak in the serene beauty of this seasonal wonderland.

  Travel Style: With Private Guide, Driver and Private Vehicle

  Accommodation: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

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  • Tokyo

• Day 4: Shinkansen Journey to Kanazawa

  Today, make your own way to the train station to catch the Shinkansen to Kanazawa. Upon arrival in Kanazawa Station, make your own way to your hotel.

  Accommodation: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kanazawa

• Day 5: Half-Day Shirakawa-Go Tour From Kanazawa

  Step back in time and experience the storybook charm of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO-listed village nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Your journey begins with a private transfer from Kanazawa, where your English-speaking driver-guide will share fascinating insights into the region's rich history and culture. As you arrive, cross the iconic wooden bridge over the shimmering Shō River and wander through centuries-old gasshō-zukuri farmhouses, their steep thatched roofs resembling hands in prayer. With over two hours to explore, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, capture breathtaking views from the village lookout, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of rural Japan.

  After this enchanting experience, relax on your return journey to Kanazawa, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

  The rest of the day is yours to relax at leisure in Kanazawa.

  Travel Style: English-Speaking Driver Cum Guide

  Accommodation: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kanazawa

• Day 6: Kanazawa Day Tour

  As autumn paints Kanazawa in fiery colors, your guide will lead you on a journey through the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, where maple trees glow in shades of crimson and gold. Stroll along tranquil ponds, cross elegant bridges, and admire the harmony of teahouses and stone lanterns, all set against the vibrant tapestry of fall foliage. Just a short walk away, step into the modern world at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, where innovative exhibits contrast beautifully with the city's historic charm.

  Continue to the reconstructed Kanazawa Castle, where the golden leaves create a striking backdrop against its white walls and imposing turrets. After an inspiring day immersed in art, history, and the beauty of autumn, your guide will return you to your hotel for a well-deserved evening of relaxation.

  Travel Style: Private Guided Walking Tour + Public Transportation

  Accommodation: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kanazawa

• Day 7: Kanazawa - Kyoto

  Free at leisure in the morning.

  At appropriate time, make your own way to Kanazawa Station for your train to Kyoto. (with a transfer at Tsuruga Station).

  Upon arriving at Kyoto, make your own way to your hotel.

  Accommodation: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kyoto

• Day 8: Kyoto Highlights With Kimono Experience & Tea Ceremony

  Step into the timeless beauty of Kyoto, beginning with a scenic hike up Mount Inari, where thousands of vermilion torii gates create a mesmerizing tunnel leading to the sacred Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine. As you wander its hidden trails, let the crisp autumn air and golden foliage enhance the spiritual ambiance of this iconic site.

  Next, explore the historic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once housed the Tokugawa Shogunate. Admire its intricately painted sliding doors and walk across the famed nightingale floors, designed to sing with each step.

  Continue to Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," where the season's best flavors come to life. Sample Kyoto's finest delicacies, from sweet treats to fresh sushi, while soaking in the lively market atmosphere.

  For a truly immersive cultural experience, slip into a beautiful kimono and step inside a traditional Machiya house for an authentic Japanese tea ceremony. Watch a tea master perform the graceful art of matcha preparation, then savor your freshly whisked tea alongside delicate wagashi sweets.

  Take a taxi to Nanzen-ji Temple, where your journey concludes amidst the breathtaking views of Kyoto's autumn foliage. Stand beneath the majestic Sanmon Gate, its grandeur framed by fiery maple leaves, and wander through the serene Zen gardens, glowing in the golden light of the season. Pause for a quiet moment to embrace the tranquility.

  Travel Style: Private English-Speaking Guide + Public Transportation

  Accommodation: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kyoto

• Day 9: Arashiyama and Kyoto Day Trip - Autumn Splendor

  Escape to Arashiyama, where the golden glow of autumn transforms Kyoto's outskirts into a breathtaking masterpiece. Wander through the bamboo groves, where towering stalks sway gently in the crisp breeze, creating an enchanting, whispering symphony. Just beyond, the Togetsukyo Bridge offers a picture-perfect view of the Katsura River, framed by forested mountains lighted in colors of crimson, amber, and gold.

  Returning to the heart of Kyoto, stroll along the Philosopher's Path, now a serene tunnel of fiery maple leaves reflected in the tranquil canal waters. For a quieter yet equally picturesque scene, the Okazaki Canal provides a charming alternative, where the beauty of fall unfolds with fewer crowds. End your day in the historic district of Gion, where lantern-lit streets and traditional teahouses evoke the elegance of old Kyoto, making for a truly magical evening.

  Travel Style: English-Speaking Guide, Driver, and Vehicle

  Accommodation: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

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  • Kyoto

• Day 10: Kyoto - Departure

  Take a taxi or the express train to Kansai airport on your own for your flight to your next destination.

  Optional: Private transfer from the airport to the hotel is available at request and extra cost.

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