Best of Japan

Discover spectacular natural beauty in the mountainous town of Hakone. Reach Hakone with your guide, and explore the old town – Moto Hakone – along lake Ashi. Taste local delicacies in Ashinoko Chaya, stroll along the cedar tree-lined Kyukaido (Ancient Highway) or visit the Hakone-jinja shrine or the museum - depending on your interests. Relish lunch before you board a cruise boat to sail across the lake. Take in stunning views of the snow-capped Mount Fuji if the weather is clear. Glide up from the lake to Mount Komagatake on the Komagatake Ropeway admiring Mount Fuji. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the lake, Hakone, and Mount Fuji. Head down the ropeway, board the cruise back to Moto Hakone and catch a train back to Tokyo. (Full Day; Please note that you can use public transport - bullet train / Romancecar depending on hotel location and local buses in Hakone. Your pick-up and drop-off point will be your hotel.)

Wake up early and enjoy a peaceful hike through the Kitayama mountains in northern Kyoto. Arriving at Kurama, pass by a bright red statue of Tengu, and the two small waterfalls nearby. Ascend the beautiful, forested staircase trail flanked by vermillion-colored lamp posts. Expect to see numerous shrines, paper lanterns, statues of mythical figures, and a couple of conceptual installations along the way. After entering the wooden gate of Yuki-jinja shrine, encounter a lofty pine tree, make a wish at the main hall, and continue further. Take a breather at the plaza in front of Kurama-dera temple. Minutes later, you’ll walk past a bell tower and a museum before reaching the summit. After a short break, head further downhill on a trail covered in tree roots. As you traverse the atmospheric trail, occasionally spot deer amid the cedar trees. Reaching the bottom of the hill, cross a small bridge over Kibune-gawa river and explore the quaint village of Kibune. (Half Day; Time of the day: 0900 hrs, Duration: 4 hrs, Public transport in local trains and buses; Fitness level: Moderate; Please note that this activity is not available during December - March.)

Explore the landmarks of Fukuoka on this tour. Visit the famous eighth century Shinto shrine of Kushida-jinja that hosts the annual Yamakasa Festival. Stroll around the grounds admiring the beautiful floats used in the festival, the biggest Otafuku mask in Japan, and a well to pray for eternal youth. Try lifting the Trial Stone and learn about the beliefs behind it. Continue on to the beautiful green lung - Ohori Park, and stroll on the pathway around the central pond. View the ruins of the Fukuoka Castle and the lovely cherry blossoms in bloom during spring. If you wish, relish a local delicacy – the Hakata Ramen – for lunch. (Half Day; Times: 0900/1300 hrs; This activity includes public transport - local trains and buses. You will be picked up and dropped off at the hotel.)

Discover the glorious 17th century Kenroku-en, renowned among Japan's top three gardens. Kenroku-en includes fountains, waterfalls, bridges, stone layouts, and teahouses that enhance its appearance around the year. A sophisticated water system feeds its two ponds - Kasumigaike and Hisagoike. The centerpiece of the garden is a huge two-legged stone lantern - Kotojitoro. Walk on its meandering paths that cut across forests of cherry trees and Karasaki pine. Drop by the well-preserved Seisoanku Samurai villa next door. Later, you will also visit the unique samurai district of Nagamachi. Nomura-ke, the showstopper of this district, is a historic samurai residence with Edo Period heirloom antiques, samurai calligraphy, an lovely courtyard garden, and a tea ceremony room. See the 400-year old Japanese bayberry tree on the premises, Japanese cypress ceilings, and traditional fusuma-e paintings. (Half Day; Private Activity; Time of the Day: 0930 or 1300 hrs; Duration: 4 hrs; Fitness level: Moderate)