Luxury Japan: Traditions, Onsens and Mount Fuji

On an evening out in Tokyo, dive into delicious bowls of ramen, a dish that embraces Japan’s food culture. Accompany Frank, an enthusiastic Tokyo native and ramen enthusiast, as he uncovers Tokyo's hidden gems! Visit award-winning local ramen shops that pride in their specialty offerings. Expect to taste two completely different bowls of steaming hot ramen at two specifically handpicked restaurants. As you sit down to eat, learn about the history of Ramen, its origins and its evolution as an iconic comfort food in Japan. You’ll soon realize that no two bowls of ramen are the same, thanks to their unique flavors, textures, and composition. As you move from one joint to the next, dig deeper into the world of ramen - discussing the trends and future of ramen, including its impact through popular culture! (Half Day; Duration: 2 -4 hrs; Meal included: 2 bowls of ramen and 1 tea/coffee; Fitness level: Moderate; Please note that additional food and drinks are not included.)

Discover the stunning natural wonders of the Hakone National Park through its fully-developed traffic network. Drive to the peaceful 650-year old Choanji Temple surrounded by a grove and seasonal flowers. Follow the walking trails observing over 200 whimsical, human-like “rakan” statues (statues of Buddhist disciples). Board a cruise boat and sail the waters of Lake Ashi, admiring Mount Fuji if the weather is clear. Hop into the Komagatake Ropeway and head to the summit of Mount Komagatake. Glide down the ropeway and board a cruise vessel to Sekisho-Ato that was a part of Hakone’s old town earlier. Walk around to one of the few original stretches of the Tokaido Road from Tokyo to Kyoto. Admire the original tall cedar trees and the old paving stones in the 500m stretch which is now mostly main road and railway lines. (Full Day; Times: 1000/1030 hrs; Group size: Max 7 guests; Please wear waterproof, comfortable footwear. You use public transport - local buses in Hakone. Pick up and drop off will be at your hotel.)

Make the most of a personal invitation from an instructor of Japanese traditional arts and visit his home for a lively conversation over tea. Accompanied by a local expert who will be your translator for the experience, you will learn the fascinating art of brewing tea in traditional Japanese style. Discover the varied aspects of a tea ceremony, including brewing and serving wares as well as the cultural significance behind each movement and act. Absorb the rich symbolism of the ceremony as you appreciate a perfectly brewed cup served by your host. Fortified by the aromatic brew, discuss the cultural significance of this timeless tradition at length before you return. (Time of Day: Morning or Afternoon; Duration: 2.5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Meals included: Tea; Fitness level: Easy; Don’t forget your cameras; Note: Please inform us in advance about food allergies, if any; Children below 4 not allowed).

Japanese cuisine has been declared a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage for good reason, cooked as it is with the freshest ingredients and masterful techniques. Get an overall idea about Japanese cooking styles from your chef in this cooking class designed for a small, intimate group. Learn how to prepare Bento style boxed meals under the expert guidance of your host chef. Cook Kyoto’s signature Shokado bento, a delicious spread that includes delectable bites of tempura, miso soup, egg roll, chicken teriyaki, sesame spinach salad and sushi. The greatest treat awaits you at the end of the class, when you get to taste your own Bento box! (Half Day, Shared Activity & No Transfers; Meal included: Lunch; Fitness Level: Easy; Please inform about any dietary restrictions in advance).