L U X U R Y T O U R S
| ALL | THE GRAND CITY | TOKYO KYOTO DUET | KANSAI ADVENTURE | THE CENTRAL | SNOW COUNTRY | COASTAL CRAWL | GUIDES |
THE COASTAL CRAWL TOUR
| ABOUT | SAMPLE ITINERARY | RESERVE |
DURATION: 10 DAYS
CITIES: START FROM TOKYO OR CHIBA AND CRAWL ALONG THE COAST DOWN TO SHIKOKU, KYUSHU, AND OKINAWA
COLLECTION OF VARIOUS SIDE TRIPS: MOUNT FUJI, HAKONE, NARA, OSAKA, HIMEJI CASTLE
SEASONAL BREAKDOWN: GREAT IN THE SPRING, SUMMER, AND EARLY FALL
ABOUT THIS TOUR
An island nation that geographically stretches from east to west and north to south, Japan is topographically rich and boasts a variety of different ecoregions throughout the country. Start from Tokyo and work your way down the coast to the southwest while enjoying the grand changing sceneries all along the way. Immerse yourself in the incredibly rich history, culture, wildlife, and natural wonders that Japan has to offer.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Witness different sides of Japan, whether it's the cutting-edge contemporary art and fashion in Tokyo, the Zen spirit and beautiful landscapes of Miyajima, or the peaceful paradises of Yakushima and Okinawa.
- Follow the long history of Japan through the legacies of Buddhism and Western influence found in various relics and numerous architecture
- Experience omotenashi first-hand; the combination of great service and top-notch cuisine unique to Japanese culture, at the finest hotels
SAMPLE ITINERARY TO GET YOU STARTED
DAY 1-2 (TOKYO)
After arriving in Tokyo and getting settled into your lodgings, we have prepared a number of different tours around Tokyo to match your preferences. From traditions to the latest of pop culture, Tokyo has it all. Journey across time in Asakusa as you stroll through the famous Sensoji temple, and be awed by the modernity of Tokyo Skytree visible from the temple grounds. Find yourself in one of the most prestigious business districts of Tokyo neighboring the grand Imperial Palace itself. Discover art in the theaters of Ginza and adorn yourself with the latest fashion trends in the youthful bustling streets of Shinjuku. There’s just so much to do and much more to see, so buckle up as we zip you around one of the world’s most fast paced cities.
DAY 3-5 (KYOTO AND OSAKA)
Travel back in time as you explore the beloved cultural treasure trove of Japan - Kyoto. With a myriad of world renowned historical relics, it proves itself as the former glorious capital of Japan. Surround yourself in culture and tradition as you stroll through the simple yet beautifully arranged gardens and gorgeous temples of Kyoto. Embrace mystique as you hike through the thousands of gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine and cross through the bamboo groves of Arashiyama. Witness both glamour and aesthetic austerity in the twin temples of the Golden and Silver Pavilions. Enjoy as you immerse yourself into the deep history of Japan.
Just half an hour away, take on Japan’s third largest city Osaka and enjoy some of Japan’s finest savory soul foods: Okonomiyaki pancakes and octopus puffs. With its lively atmosphere, Osaka is a great representation of the Kansai area and people in contrast to Tokyo. Spend some time to shop, visit the famous Osaka castle, enjoy quality family time at the Osaka Aquarium, and mingle with locals while enjoying local cuisine in downtown Osaka.
OPTIONAL 3 DAY SIDE TRIP
Fancy a side trip outside the big cities and into the beautiful recesses of Shikoku. As one of Japan's main four islands, Shikoku, while as a whole more rural, offers its own cultural treasures in the form of art, food, historical relics, and hot spring resorts.
Journey through the beautiful Awaji island and the Naruto strait as you make your way to the capital of Shikoku, Tokushima. Enjoy the local castles, the numerous stellar parks, puppet shows and other cultural activities that Tokushima has to offer. Spend the night in Tokushima then travel along the upper coast to Takamatsu, home to some of Japan's most famous designers. Visit local folk museums to take in a timeline of absolutely splendid cultural beauty. For your third day in Shikoku, travel to Japan's oldest hot spring resort and spend the night in Matsuyama. With a lingering nostalgic feel, the town is filled with an assortment of historical relics such as the Bocchan train (stage to famed Natsume Soseki's novel Bocchan). Finally, make a brief stop in the wondrous city of water, Onomichi, before making your way back to Hiroshima.
DAY 6 (MIYAJIMA)
Next on the coastal crawl lies the breathtaking island of gods, Miyajima. Known for its unparalleled beauty and iconic spectacle of the giant gate in the waters, Miyajima is home to the enchanting Itsukushima shrine and majestic Mount Misen. Enjoy the island's atmosphere as you make your way through the lively streets filled with old fashioned shops and restaurants. Spend a day at Miyajima and see for yourself why the island of gods is known as one of Japan’s best scenic spots.
DAY 7 (FUKUOKA)
Cited as one of best cities in the world to live in, the dynamic city of Fukuoka is absolutely filled with beautiful sights to see and fun things to do! Given its close proximity to South Korea, China, and Southeast Asia, Fukuoka city sees an influx of a myriad of different cultures, creating an international feel of progressiveness. Spend a day of fun on the seaside and at marine parks, or explore the beautiful gardens of Nokonoshima Island.
DAY 8 (YAKUSHIMA)
A verdant oasis off the coast of Kagoshima, the island of Yakushima is brimming with all sorts of fauna and wildlife. With ancient moss covered trees over thousands of years old, the forests of Yakushima are simply mystical, providing inspiration for famous works such as Miyazaki Hayao’s “Mononoke Princess.” Equally as stunning are the glittering stretches of beaches and sparkling rivers flowing throughout the island. Nature lover or not, a day of adventure at Yakushima is sure to create a magical memory for a lifetime.
DAY 9 (OKINAWA)
Welcome to the paradise islands of Okinawa! Though we have toured several southern islands of Japan, Okinawa is an entirely new treasure box of unique culture waiting to be opened. Take on some of the world’s best stretches of beaches and forestry at places like Ishigaki and tackle ancient history with some sightseeing at castle ruins. Partake in Okinawan cultural activities like glass crafting and indulge in the local cuisine. If you are feeling adventurous, how about a dive into the sapphire blue sea for a swim with the colorful marine life of Okinawa? Whatever it is, just remember to relax and enjoy! After all, Okinawa is the ultimate vacation spot with a natural beauty and luxury you won’t find anywhere else.
DAY 10 (TOKYO)
Reflect on your long stay and tell us what you have missed and where you would like to revisit. This is the last chance for you to get some last-minute shopping and visits done until the next time you visit Japan.
At SENS we create customized tours for each group/ individual so you can enjoy the ultimate Japan experience.
Contact us through the form below to start building your tour today!
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
- All transfers on land with private chauffeur including airport transfers
- All admission fees and activity expenses (excluding optional activities) as noted in the itinerary
- All meals as noted in the itinerary
- All services of English-speaking guide(s) (please inquire for another language)
- All accommodation, based on double-occupancy, including breakfast, service charge, and tax
WHAT'S NOT:
- International & domestic flights and relevant taxes
- Tourist visas
- Travel, health and trip cancellation insurance
- Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
