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 CENTRAL TOUR
| ABOUT | SAMPLE ITINERARY | RESERVE |
DURATION: 8 DAYS
CITIES: TOKYO, NAGANO, KANAZAWA, TAKAYAMA, AND KAWAGUCHIKO
COLLECTION OF VARIOUS SIDE TRIPS: SHIRAKAWA-GO, TAKAYAMA, KISO VALLEY, YAMANOUCHI
SEASONAL BREAKDOWN: ALL SEASONS
ABOUT THIS TOUR
From super cities to ancient towns and rural villages, experience the treasure trove that central Japan has to offer. Breathe in the rush of Tokyo, take a dive into the rich cultural past of Kanazawa, and enjoy the absolutely stunning beauty and depth of Shirakawa-go and Takayama.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Get lost in the towns of Kanazawa and experience the way of life from centuries past
- Follow the long history of Japan through the legacies of Buddhist influence and unique Gassho-zukuri housing in Shirakawago
- Experience omotenashi, or a combination of great service and top-notch cuisine unique to Japanese culture at the finest hotels, including the famous Kayou-tei in Kanazawa
SAMPLE ITINERARY TO GET YOU STARTED
DAY 1-3 (TOKYO)
Starting at the traditional site of Asakusa, we’ll tour you around one of the most famous temples of Japan before bringing you to the gorgeous gardens of Hamarikyu Park, where you can enjoy the exclusive experience of a traditional tea ceremony. After a relaxing break, swing over to the residence of the Emperor, the Imperial Palace itself, for a tour around the spectacular Imperial Palace Gardens. And if you are interested in traditional Japanese theater, we can prepare seats for you at the prestigious Kabuki-za theater in Ginza.
DAY 4-5 (KANAZAWA)
The brand new bullet-train service has made a trip from Tokyo to Kanazawa fast, easy and luxurious. Known as little Kyoto, Kanazawa remains one of Japan’s major cultural sites, garnering recognition from UNESCO as Japan’s representative city of arts and crafts. Ever since its prominence during the Edo Period as the second largest domain of Japan, Kanazawa has continued the trend of its first daimyo patron in devoting itself to developing cultural appreciation in both the arts and cuisine. Its long historical background and cultural depth certainly show in the numerous gardens and artisan streets that line the old castle and entertainment districts. Marvel at Japan’s most celebrated garden, Kenrokuen, and wander through the ages in the east entertainment district. You might even find yourself enjoying an adventure through the trap-filled "Ninja Temple". Full of engaging and educational activities, Kanazawa is the perfect place for everyone, including groups and families.
DAY 6 (SIDE TRIP TO SHIRAKAWA-GO)
Venture off the city roads for a day trip to one of Japan’s most beautiful rural areas. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa Village is known for one of Japan’s most unique architectural styles, the Minka-style Gassho-zukuri. The sight of these beautifully woven, traditional thatched rooftops in a quiet rural village surrounded by the natural beauty of the land is simply beyond words throughout the seasons. Spend the night in Takayama and prepare for another day ahead of you.
DAY 6: DAY TRIP TO SHIRAKAWA-GO
Venture off the city roads for a day trip to one of Japan’s most beautiful rural areas. Also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa Village and Gokayama are home to one of Japan’s most unique architectural style known as the Minka styled Gassho-zukuri. The sight of these beautifully woven, traditional thatched rooftops in a quiet rural village surrounded by the natural beauty of the land is simply beyond words throughout the seasons. Shirakawa and Gokayama villages make for the perfect day trip from Takayama, but are also phenomenal for a one night stay.
DAY 7 (TAKAYAMA AND KAWAGUCHIKO)
A center for skilled carpentry and lumbering since the feudal ages, Takayama has preserved its history in the form of its own unique traditional crafts and architectural structures. Stroll around and feel the warmth of the old Japanese neighborhoods. Finish your long stay in Japan with a visit to a hot spring by the foot of Mount Fuji.
DAY 8 (TOKYO)
Reflect on your long stay and tell us what you 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.
HEADS UP:
We will not always be able to provide foreign luxury hotel accommodations, but will do our best to arrange stays at the finest local luxury ryokan/hotels available
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
