Discover Japan
12 nights / 13 days
Fully Guided
DISCOVER JAPAN
CLASSIC | 13 DAYS | PHYSICAL LEVEL 1
TOKYO – MOUNT FUJI – SUWA – MATSUMOTO –
TAKAYAMA – KANAZAWA – KYOTO – NARA – KOYASAN – OSAKA
This tour is the perfect introduction to fascinating Japan, where skyscrapers give way to paddy fields and crowds disperse into the tranquility of classical gardens.
• Discover the delights of futuristic Tokyo
• Admire breathtaking Mount Fuji
• Experience the speedy bullet train
• Get a glimpse of Buddhist life in Koya-San
• Explore the vibrant city of Osaka
Discover Japan Tour Inclusions:
Day 1-2
Tokyo
Fly overnight to Tokyo, the capital of Japan. On arrival, you will be met by an
English-speaking representative and transfer approximately 1 and a half hours to
your hotel.
Please note: Early check in is not included. If your flight arrives in the morning and you wish
to arrange this, please speak to your reservations consultant. You will be transferred by
shared coach with other passengers who are not part of a Wendy Wu Tour. If you are on a
shared bus transfer, you may have to walk for a few minutes to get to your hotel. Transfers
will differ depending on group size.
*Destination Information
Tokyo – One of the world’s most cutting-edge capital cities, Tokyo is a city of contrasts, famous for its neon-lit landscape, towering
skyscrapers, peaceful shrines and lovingly tended gardens. Although long the political and cultural centre of Japan, Tokyo became the
official capital when the Meiji Emperor moved it to Tokyo in 1867.*
Day 3
Tokyo City Tour
Tokyo is the ultimate 24-hour city, but look behind its frantic, high-tech frontage
and you’ll find plenty of tranquil backstreets and old temples to explore. Head to
the observation deck of the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views over the city
before taking a wander through the district of Asakusa, stopping at the Sensoji
Temple and Nakamise shopping street. Drive by the Imperial Palace Plaza and
then continue to the peaceful Hamarikyu Gardens. You will be on your feet for 4-
5 hours during your touring in Tokyo. Enjoy your evening meal whilst leisurely
cruising for one hour along Tokyo Bay. You will need to get on and off your boat
this evening for your cruise on Tokyo Bay without assistance.
Destination Information
Tokyo Skytree
The tallest structure in Japan and the tallest tower in the world, Tokyo Skytree is predominantly a television and radio
broadcast tower and is earthquake resistant.
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple is an ancient Buddhist Temple and the oldest in Tokyo. The temple was originally founded in the 7th
century. The temple adorns an image of the Buddhist Goddess Kannon, who was said to have been rescued by two fishermen from the
Sumida River in Tokyo.
Imperial Palace Plaza
Imperial Palace Plaza is the main residence of the Emperor of Japan. Built on the original site of Edo Castle, the
Plaza is made up of a palace, museum and large park.
Hamarikyu Gardens
Hamarikyu Gardens is a beautiful example of Japanese garden style which sits at the mouth of the Sumida River.
Day 4
Mount Fuji
This morning, transfer to the station and take a 30-minute bullet train to
Odawara. On arrival, transfer to tranquil Lake Ashi. Take a cruise across the lake
before taking the Komagatake cable car for spectacular views of Mount Fuji and
the lake below. Continue by coach to Japan's most iconic landmark Mount Fuji.
Start at the 5th Station for breathtaking views of Fuji. Please note, travelling to
the 5th station at Mount Fuji is only possible if weather conditions permit it. Drive
to Suwa to check in to your hotel for an overnight stay, your hotel this evening
will have onsen facilities for you to enjoy.
Please note that you will need to pack a small overnight bag for tonight as your main
luggage will be transferred separately this morning and arrive at your hotel in Takayama
the next day.
Due to your early start this morning, you may need to take a packed breakfast with you
(provided).
Destination Information
Mount Fuji
At 3,776m, Mount Fuji is the highest of Japan's mountains and an iconic symbol of the country. Mount Fuji is notoriously shy
and is often enveloped by clouds.
Lake Ashi
Formed after Mount Hakone’s last eruption 3000 years ago, Lake Ashi is the symbol of Hakone and on a clear day offers
spectacular views of Mount Fuji in the distance.
Day 5
Matsumoto Castle
This morning, drive 2 hours to Nagano to explore the formidable 16th century
Matsumoto Castle. There are steep ladder-style steps in the Matsumoto Castle
that you must climb up and back down again. If you choose not to look inside the
castle, you can enjoy the surrounding gardens, moat and architecture of
Matsumoto Castle. After lunch, stop at a Miso House to learn about the process
of making this Japanese seasoning. Try Miso soup before travelling a further 2
and a half hours to Takayama, nestled high in the mountainous Hida region.
Check in to your hotel in Takayama and enjoy the relaxing onsen facilities.
*Overnight accommodation: In 2022 stay in a ryokan and bedding will consist of a
mattress (low bed) on a tatami mat. In 2023, this will be in a hotel and bedding
will consist of a western bed.*
Destination Information
Matsumoto Castle
Known as the crow castle due to its dark black exterior, the Matsumoto Castle dates back to the 16th century and is
the oldest wooden castle in Japan.
Ishii Miso
Ishii Miso was founded in 1868 and is still producing miso, an essential ingredient in Japanese cuisine, by a unique traditional
method.
Takayama
Boasting one of Japan’s most atmospheric townscapes, the layout of Takayama dates back to the 17th century and is home
to much Meiji architecture.
Day 6
Explore Takayama
Head to the Miyagawa Morning Market, where you can sample some of the
delicious local fruits and vegetables (at your own expense). Later, take a leisurely
stroll round the traditional houses of the area and visit the museums, stopping at
Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, Kusakabe Folk Museum, Takayama
Jinya and Kamisannomachi Street. You will spend approximately 5 hours on foot
today sightseeing around the town of Takayama.
*Overnight accommodation: In 2022 stay in a ryokan and bedding will consist of a
mattress (low bed) on a tatami mat. In 2023, this will be in a hotel and bedding
will consist of a western bed.*
Destination Information
Miyagawa Morning Market
Occurring each morning, there are a number of stalls selling fresh vegetables, local craft works and local
food products at the Miyagawa Morning Market.
Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
Housing the floats from the Takayama Festival, which dates back to the 16th century, the
Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall is a great introduction to the cultural celebrations of Takayama.
Kusabe Folk Museum
Kusabe Folk Museum is a former house for a wealthy merchant named Kusakabe. The house is typical of the
style during the Edo Period, with dark wooden beams and pillars.
Takayama Jinya
A former government office dating back to the Edo Period, Takayama Jinya is the only one of its type still remaining.
The main work of the office was to handle legal cases and tax collection.
Day 7
Shirakawago & Kanazawa
Travel 1 and a half hours to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Shirakawago,
famous for its traditional Gassho-Zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more
than 250 years old. You will spend 1 to 2 hours on foot exploring the area. There
are some stairs in the house if you want to explore the higher levels. Drive
around 1 hour to try your hand at making washi paper this afternoon, before
continuing another 1 and a half hours to Kanazawa. On arrival, wander through
the beautiful Kenrokuen, before checking in to your hotel.
Destination Information
Shirakawago
– Alongside Gokayama, Shirakawago is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unusual architectural style known as
Gassho-Zukuri. The roofs of these houses are tilted at an almost vertical angle.
Washi Paper
– Washi Paper is a type of Japanese paper made from the fibres of bark. This type of paper is commonly used in the art of
origami.
Kanazawa
– Kanazawa is the capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture and is known for its beautiful samurai and geisha districts, as well as its
stunning Kenrokuen Garden.
Kenrokuen
– One of Japan’s ‘Three Great Gardens’, Kenrokuen dates back to the early 17th century and is noticeable for its stunning
beauty in all seasons.
Day 8
Gold Leaf Making
This morning, learn the process of how gold leaf is made and applied to everyday
objects. Try it for yourself by decorating a pair of chopsticks and take your newly
created artwork home! Later, stroll down the traditional Higashi Chaya (Eastern
Teahouse District), visiting Ochaya Shima – a historical geisha house. After
lunch, drive 4 hours to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, check in to your hotel and
enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Destination Information
Gold Leaf Experience
When a lump of gold is beaten until it is only 1/10,000 mm thick, it becomes gold leaf, as used in temples, shrines
and many traditional crafts. Kanazawa and its surrounding areas produce more than 99% of all gold leaf used in Japan.
Higashi Chaya Street
Higashi Chaya Street is a traditional Japanese street featuring historical rows of houses. It is also the geisha
district of Kanazawa, offering visitors delicious treats and tea, as well as the chance to visit some of the guest houses used in the past by
geishas as living quarters.
Kyoto
Kyoto was the ancient capital of Japan for approximately 1,000 years until 1867 when it was moved to Tokyo. Many national
treasures can be found in Kyoto and in nearby Nara, including old shrines and temples, screen paintings, beautiful gardens, and statues of
Buddha.
Day 9
Explore Kyoto
Start the day with a visit to Ryoanji, the ‘temple of the peaceful dragon’ and the
famous Kinkakuji, also known as the ‘Golden Pavilion' due to its gold-like exterior. You
will spend approximately 2 hours at the temples. In the afternoon, head to a restored
Japanese wooden townhouse and try your hand at origami and enjoy
the age-old rituals of a tea ceremony with a tea master.
Destination Information
Ryoanji Temple
Ryoanji Tempole is a Zen temple renowned for its garden, which features a dry, sand landscape with large rocks and
smooth pebbles.
Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Kinkakuji Temple is a Buddhist temple and is an excellent example of Japanese garden design.
The structure is a brilliant golden hue colour and is very minimalistic.
Day 10
Discover Nara
Travel 1 hour to Nara, stopping en route at the mesmerising Fushimi Inari Shrine.
The Fushimi Inari Shrine stretches from the bottom to the top of Mount Inari (233
metres high). You will walk up part of the mountain; there are some steep steps
and the incline allows a steady-paced walk. On arrival in Nara, visit Todaiji
Temple, the world’s largest wooden structure and home to Japan’s largest
Buddha. Also visit Isui-en Gardens, known for its natural ponds, sightseeing here
will be about 3 hours on foot.
Destination Information
Nara – Home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nara is a rewarding destination and a great spot for Japanese culture.
Todaiji Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Todaiji Temple is one of the Seven Great Temples of Japan and is home to the world’s
largest bronze statue, Daibutsu.
Fushimi Inari Shrine – The Fushimi Inari is a corridor of red tori gates which stretch through the thick woods of Mount Inari, a truly
remarkable sight.
Day 11
Koya-san
This morning, drive 2 and a half hours to Koya-san, the centre of Shingon
Buddhism. See Okunoin, Japan’s largest cemetery and home to the mausoleum
of Kobo Daishi, founder of Shingon Buddhism. Next, visit the Kongobuji Temple
and Garan temple complex. The walk through Okunoin Cemetery to the
mausoleum of Kobo Daishi is roughly 2km and sometimes you will be walking
over uneven surfaces. Continue to Osaka, a journey of approximately 1 hour 30
minutes, to check in to your hotel.
Destination Information
Koya-san
Known primarily as the centre of the Shingon sub-section of Buddhism, Koya-san sits in the mountains and is the ideal spot to
get a glimpse of Japan’s traditional religious life.
Kongobuji Temple
Dating back to 16th century, the Kongobuji Temple is the head temple of the Shingon Buddhist sect. The interior of
the building is adorned with paintings of cranes and there are sliding doors throughout.
Garan Temple
Garan Temple is a compound of seven halls, the ideal number of halls in Buddhism. The main sight of worship is in front
of the Cosmic Buddha.
Okunoin Cemetery
Home to Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum (founder of Shingon Buddhism), Okunoin Cemetery is the largest cemetery in
Japan, with over 200,000 tombstones, as many wished to be buried near Kobo Daishi.
Osaka
Osaka is Japan’s third largest city. What Osaka lacks in sightseeing locations, it makes up for with its flamboyance, fun loving
people and amazing food.
Day 12
Explore Osaka
This morning, visit the famous Osaka Castle before taking a stroll around the
Dotonbori district, a restaurant mecca, where you can sample delicious local
delicacies. Next, enjoy a 20-minute cruise along the Yodogawa River. Spend the
rest of the afternoon at leisure before a farewell dinner this evening.
Destination Information
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most famous castles, known for sweeping views of the city from its hilltop perch.
Construction began in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who intended the castle to become the centre of a new, unified Japan under his rule.
Dotonbori District
Historically a theatre district and still a popular entertainment area today, the Dotonbori district offer an eccentric and
electric atmosphere.
Day 13
Depart Osaka
This morning is free at leisure before you transfer to Osaka airport for your return
flight home.
Please note: Only breakfast is included today. Late check-out is not included in
our Discover Japan tour. If you wish to book a late check-out for your final day in
Osaka, please contact our reservations department who can confirm the
additional price and make this arrangement for you, subject to availability at the
hotel.
*Transfers: In the event that your flight departs outside of the majority group
departure time, you will be transferred to the airport by a shared coach (not with
other Wendy Wu Tours passengers). If you are on a shared coach transfer, you
may have to walk for a few minutes to get to the coach.*
All accommodation
All meals (From dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day)
All sightseeing and entrance fees
All transportation and transfers
English speaking National Escort
Specialist advice from our experienced travel consultants
Comprehensive travel guides
Safe and secure with ABTA, ATOL and IATA
Extras:
Please ask our sales team to price the International Flights
Single Room supplement
Dates
20/03/23 & 22/03/23 & 24/03/23 & 26/03/23 & 31/03/23 & 02/04/23 & 04/05/23 and many many more.
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