G Adventures - Japan Family Journey from Ancient to Modern Times

Pricing is based on departure date 28th June 2023

Travel Highlights : 

Japan is a feast for the senses, from its electrifying neon-lit neighbourhoods to tranquil hilltop temples. Experience an intriguing mix of modernity and tradition as we explore dazzling Tokyo, imperial Kyoto, and the mountain city of Nagano. Wander Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, practice sumo wrestling and samurai swordplay, and sample wasabi-infused culinary concoctions. In this fascinating land of anime, snow monkeys, and high-speed trains, there is something to delight every member of the family.

TRAVEL STYLE: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC FAMILY JOURNEYS

• Trips for adventure-loving families in search of a meaningful way to discover the world together.

SERVICE LEVEL: UPGRADED

• Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.

PHYSICAL RATING: 3 - AVERAGE

• Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

TRIP TYPE: SMALL GROUP

• Small group experience; 20

AGE REQUIREMENT: 7+

• All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

• With a passport from United Kingdom a visa is not required for Japan
• Allowed stay: 90 days

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Okinawa Cooking Class, Tokyo
• Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Kembu Masters, Kyoto
• Your Family Journeys Moment: Traditional Taiko Drumming Class, Tokyo
• Your Family Journeys Moment: Sumo Wrestling Class, Tokyo
• Your Foodie Moment: Wasabi Farm Visit, Matsumoto
• Your Family Journeys Moment: Ramen Making Class, Kyoto
• Tour of Tokyo including Meiji Jingu Shrine, Asakusa and Harajuku districts
• Traditional taiko Japanese drumming class
• Sumo class led by a former wrestler
• Sleep in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) and enjoy a kaiseki dinner
• See wild snow monkeys at the Jigokudani Monkey Park
• Visit the Buddhist temple of Zenkō-ji
• Visit Matsumoto castle
• Visit a local wasabi farm
• Walk through the Nishiki Market and Gion Geisha District with your CEOs
• Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
• Take part in a ramen making class
• Tour Nara including visits to the Tōdaiji Temple, Kasuga Grand Shrine and the Naramachi district
• Visit the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• Japan Rail (JR) pass (7 days)
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

ACCOMMODATIONS

• Hotels (9 nts), traditional Inn (1 nt)

MEALS

• 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Allow USD390-510 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION

• Bullet train, express train, local train, ferry, metro, taxi, public bus, walking

STAFF & EXPERTS

• 2 CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) throughout, local guides

Day 1 / Tokyo

Arrive in time to meet your fellow travelers for a welcome gathering this evening. Your arrival transfer is included.

Day 2 / Tokyo

Today, we’ll see Tokyo from a local’s perspective, traveling by public transit. Experience the traditional side of the city with a visit to the serene Meiji Jingu shrine, dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Meiji. Then hit the streets of the buzzing Harajuku district, where kitschy-cute street fashion and candy-colored wigs are the order of the day. Later, make your way to the old part of town for a taiko drumming class. Hear how these traditional wooden drums are made and learn three different playing techniques. Put your newly acquired skills to the test during a group performance, then be wowed by a heart-pounding professional routine.

Day 3 / Tokyo

Learn Japanese secrets to longevity in a cooking class on Okinawa cuisine, originating from the Japanese island reputed to have the highest life expectancy in the world. Prepare a selection of dishes using typical ingredients and learn about the beneficial qualities of each. Sweet potatoes form a large part of the Okinawan diet, as do seaweed, fish, rice, and an array of herbs and spices. Savor your nutritious lunch and spend the rest of the day discovering Tokyo at leisure.

Day 4 / Tokyo/Nagano (area)

Ryokan are traditional Inns found across Japan. Featuring tatami floors (soft mats of woven straw), futon beds, Japanese-style baths, cotton kimono (casual robe worn to lounge around), and kaiseki meals (often served in the comfort of your own room); a ryokan is the perfect place to experience traditional customs and local immersion. The Ryokan is a simple, traditional Inn with few amenities and shared facilities, have fun and enjoy this relaxing opportunity to learn more about Japan’s unique customs.

Day 5 / Nagano

Nagano is home to the Japanese macaque, or snow monkey — one of the only primate species that can survive below freezing temperatures. Venture to Jigokudani Yaen Koen (Snow Monkey Park) to watch these furry simians scampering about the rocks or taking a soak in one of the thermal pools, fed by natural hot springs. Then head into Nagano city to explore the 7th-century Buddhist temple of Zenkoji, home to the very first Buddha statue brought to Japan.

Day 6 / Nagano

Travel to Matsumoto for a visit to one of Japan’s most treasured castles. Known as the “crow castle” for its imposing black exterior, the Matsumoto fortress dates to the 16th century and was once a stronghold of the samurai, Japan’s elite military class. Later, we make our way to a wasabi farm to learn all about this fiery Japanese condiment and its laborious cultivation. Opt to taste a variety of wasabi products, including wasabi-flavored pickles, crackers, noodles, juice — even wasabi ice cream and chocolate. If you’re brave enough, take a nibble of wasabi in its purest form: fresh!

Day 7 / Nagano/Kyoto

As the Imperial capital, Kyoto is an essential part of any visit to Japan. Kyoto has some of the most magnificent temples in Japan which date back centuries. There are said to be 2,000 temples, shrines, palaces, museums and traditional gardens in Kyoto. Wander past huge wooden structures and multi-storied pagodas, all linked with famous walkways.

Day 8 / Kyoto

This morning, pay a visit to the Fushimi Inari shrine, located just outside of Kyoto. Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, this beautiful temple is known for its Senbon Torii — a stunning walkaway of vermilion-colored gates. Later, dive into another fun-filled cooking class, rolling up your sleeves to make a steaming bowl of ramen noodles.

Day 9 / Nara

Spend the day discovering ancient Nara, where Japan’s first capital was established in the early 8th century. Immerse yourself in the ornate halls of the Todaiji temple, and gaze upon the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world, standing nearly 50 feet tall. At Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s most celebrated shrine, stroll romantic walkways lined with hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns, and wander amid the gardens of Nara Park, where herds of semi-domesticated deer roam free. Check out the shops and galleries of the Naramachi district before returning to Kyoto.

Day 10 / Kyoto

Unleash your inner warrior this morning with a lesson on samurai swordplay. Learn how to wield a Japanese sword and witness an unforgettable performance by masters of kembu, or sword dance. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Kiyomizudera temple, perched on a hilltop near a sacred waterfall. There is much to keep you busy here: ring giant prayer bowls, sip holy water — said to have wish-fulfilling qualities — or muster the courage to walk through the Tainai Meguri, a lightless underground tunnel that symbolizes the visitor’s journey to enlightenment. This evening, celebrate your Japan adventure at a farewell dinner.

Day 11 / Kyoto

There are no planned activities today and you are free to depart at any time.

Prices listed are per person in Great British Pound, based on twin occupancy, rates for single occupancy may differ, Rates offered are including all discounts unless otherwise stated. All bookings are subject to availability. Other travel periods may be available. Some block out dates may apply. Rates may alter depending upon the dates requested and surcharges if applicable. Final booking confirmation only provided once payment has been processed. Contact our travel team for more details. Our Holiday Centre reserves the right to withdraw this promotion without notice at any time. Flights are not included. Pricing correct as at 27th March 2023