Our Journeys
Wonders of Japan
May 16 to 30, 2025
Journey Highlights
Join us on an extraordinary 15-day Journey across Japan, where you’ll uncover the heart and soul of this captivating country. From the vibrant streets of Tokyo and the historic town of Takayama to the poignant landmarks of Hiroshima and the cultural treasures of Kyoto, alongside the awe-inspiring sights of Mount Fuji and Miyajima Island. We warmly invite you to immerse yourself in Japan’s unique culture and breathtaking landscapes, forging unforgettable memories with new and familiar friends.
Browse the highlights below by swiping or pressing the arrows.
Tokyo
Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, offers a spirited mix of attractions. Experience the energy of Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest intersections, marvel at the upscale atmosphere of the Ginza district, and take in breathtaking panoramic views from the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world. Each corner of this vibrant metropolis offers a unique glimpse into its dynamic culture and innovation.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak, stands majestically as a symbol of natural beauty and cultural significance. Visible from miles around, it captivates with its symmetrical form and serene presence, making it a highlight for many. This revered mountain offers a profound connection to Japan’s rich heritage and is exemplary of breathtaking scenery.
Takayama
Takayama
Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps, captivates with its beautifully preserved old town and rich historical charm. The streets lined with Edo-period buildings, traditional merchant houses, and sake breweries offer a glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage at its finest, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its authentic atmosphere.
Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island, one of Japan’s most revered destinations, captivates with its iconic floating torii gate and friendly roaming deer. It offers a tranquil retreat into nature and a deep connection to Japan’s spiritual heritage, inviting visitors to explore its timeless charm.
Kyoto
Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan’s cultural treasure trove, invites exploration with its array of temples, shrines, and traditional gardens. Quaint streets lined with traditional machiya houses offer glimpses into the city’s enduring charm. Kyoto captivates visitors with its blend of historical depth and vibrant present-day culture.
Journey Itinerary
Detailed ItineraryDEPART FOR TOKYO, JAPAN
Start your Journey with us by enjoying a private car pick up service from your home. Upon arrival at the airport, guests departing from the Toronto airport are assisted with their check-in. Meet your Journey Manager and fellow guests, and board your flight. Our Journey Manager travels with you to take care of all the details throughout the Journey, allowing you to focus on your experience.
Overnight: | Overnight Flight |
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WELCOME TO TOKYO
On arrival in Tokyo, we experience firsthand the genuine kindness of the Japanese with a warm welcome from our local guide. Relax in the elegance of our hotel, or take a stroll through the streets of Japan’s largest metropolis. Join us this evening for a casual welcome dinner.
Overnight: | Hotel New Otani, Tokyo |
Meals: | Dinner |
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DISCOVERING TOKYO
Our full day city exploration will begin with a visit to the Imperial Palace Eastern Gardens, home to 210,000 square meters of green space that is open to the public. Drive by the Ginza district, the most expensive real estate in the world. After lunch, we proceed to the Tokyo Skytree to visit the top level for an awe-inspiring view of the city, and maybe even Mt Fuji on a very clear day. At Asakusa, visit Nakamise-dori, Senso-ji Buddhist Temple (also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple) to learn about Japan’s unique religious practices. Experience the world’s busiest intersection, Shibuya Crossing, where hundreds of people cross from all directions every time the signal changes.
Note – During this journey, many temples require us to remove our shoes. This shows respect for the Japanese traditions, and protects the centuries old heritage sites.
Overnight: | Hotel New Otani, Tokyo |
Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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KAMAKURA
Immersing ourselves in the local culture, we drive to Kamakura, the former home to countless poets and artists. One of many highlights today include the beauty of The Great Bronze Buddha, the Hase Kannon Temple and the impressive Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
Wander amongst the intimate shops and cafes on Komaci Street. Look closely, and you will find the famous natto (sticky beans), ham, traditional Kamakura carving and other local specialties.
Overnight: | Hotel New Otani, Tokyo |
Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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MT. FUJI & HAKONE
We skirt the Japanese Alps this morning as we drive south from Tokyo. Mt Fuji pokes its perfect volcanic cone towards the heavens. Discover the picturesque and serene natural beauty of a crater lake during a relaxing boat cruise, then takethe Komagatake Ropeway for scenic views of Hakone and surrounding area On to Suwa where for this one night we step into another world, relaxing in a cotton yukata (dressing gown) and sleeping on a traditional Futon. Note: On day 5, our main luggage travels directly from Tokyo to Takayama (see day 6) on a separate vehicle. You will not have access to it for the night of the fifth day and we encourage you to use our convenient carry on bag for this overnight. You may want to pack a long sleeve shirt in your carry on as we travel over higher ground to Mt. Fuji today where the air may be cool.
Note: Hotel is traditional Japanese Ryokan and room will have comfortable futon on the floor for sleeping.
Overnight: | Suwa, Hotel Saginoyu (Japanese style room) |
Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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MATSUMOTO & TAKAYAMA
Our journey continues via Matsumoto, noted for its majestic six storey castle, to the mountain village of Takayama. Visit the Hida Folk Village, a living museum of rural homes and barns, where we will experience the traditional lifestyles of a bygone era. Later we will visit the Matsuri-no-Mori Museum to learn about the art of tea. The museum has a collection of massive yatai or parade floats, created for the annual harvest festival.
Overnight: | Takayama, Hotel Associa Takayama Resort |
Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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Signature Inclusions on This Journey
THE JOURNEYS DIFFERENCEIn addition to our essentials, your Journey includes our following Signature Inclusions:
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24/7 Professional Journey Manager
- Will travel with you from Canada and handle every detail
- In addition to knowledgeable local guides
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Memorable Private Excursions
- Private excursions crafted by our team
- All sightseeing & entrance fees included
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Private Car Pick-up Service
- Within a 200-kilometre radius, let your Journey begin in elegant comfort with a private chauffeured car to the airport
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Generous Tips & Gratuities
- For the porters, local guides, hotel staff & many more, paid by us on your behalf
Our essentials included with your Journey:
- 11 nights in outstanding hotels
- All meals included: 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 14 dinners
- Round-trip airfare from Toronto with Air Canada
- “Whisper” radios included for use during excursions
- All taxes as well as service charges
- Hassle-free Visas handled & processed for Canadian citizens
- Other gateways & travel classes available
- Porterage for one piece of luggage per person
- Complete information & assistance leading up to your departure
- Branded overnight carry-on or backpack
Hotels
NEW OTANI HOTEL, TOKYO
Surrounded by a beautiful 400-year old Japanese garden, Hotel New Otani Tokyo is located in central Tokyo and offers comfortable accommodations less than a 10-minute walk from 5 subway lines.
New Otani Hotel is just 984 feet from Akasaka-Mitsuke Subway Station. From this station the Ginza, Shibuya and Shinjuku areas can all be reached in less than a 10-minute subway ride.
The room has large full-height windows that extend from the foot to the ceiling with a sense of openness and provide a flat screen TV, a refrigerator, and air conditioning, and guests can stay connected with free wifi.
HOTEL SAGINOYU, SUWA
Hotel Saginoyu, situated in front of Lake Suwa, is one of the most established ryokans in Ka-mi-Suwa hot spring town, with more than 100-year history as a hot spring ryokan. Despite the modern atmosphere of the town’s buildings, once you step inside Saginoyu, the warmth of Japa-nese style is seen throughout the interior, rooms and garden will welcome you. Bathing in a large common bath at Saginoyu whose natural hot spring water has a number of therapeutic benefits will surely help you get relaxed.
Cable television is provided for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature complimentary toiletries and bidets. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
HOTEL ASSOCIA, TAKAYAMA RESORT
Amidst the beautiful Takayama highlands in the southwest of Takayama city, this gracious hotel soars above the surrounding countryside and provides commanding views of rice paddies, deep forests and the Japanese Alps. The hotel prides itself on providing the finest accommodations in the entire area. Guests at the hotel have access to a very traditional Japanese hot spring bath. With it’s European style and elegant atmosphere, the hotel is an ideal resort for people looking for a break from the fast-paced city lifestyle.
Spa Wing-onsen or Hot spring Baths
This is perhaps the most talked-about hot spring spa in this area of Japan. Imagine an entire wing dedicated to hot spring baths! Take a slow walk down an all-tatami aisle, bow under the no-ren (Japanese curtains) and approach baths fit for the gods!
ANA CROWNE PLAZA, KANAZAWA
ANA Crowne Plaza Kanazawa offers rooms with free WiFi. It features 5 restaurants, a bar with city views and concierge services. The elegant rooms at ANA Crowne Plaza Kanazawa are air-conditioned and fitted with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. A fridge, free tea and coffee are provided. Free toiletries include aromatherapy oils, eye masks, and bath additives.
Japanese restaurant Unkai overlooks the hotel’s garden. The restaurants at Crowne Plaza offer a variety of Chinese, Japanese and international food. In-room dining is available.
RIHGA ROYAL HOTEL, HIROSHIMA
With a stylish exterior designed in the image of Rijo, Hiroshima’s famous “Carp Castle”, the RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima offers a wealth of facilities and services befitting a hotel of the 21st century. This new symbol of Hiroshima, an international city of peace and culture, is sure to meet your every expectation.
The air-conditioned guest rooms at Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima come with a desk, trouser press, hairdryer and bathroom amenities. An air purifier is provided for guests as well. Serta beds are used in all rooms for a comfortable stay. Rooms include a flat-screen satellite TV and a private bathroom with bathtub. Free WiFi is available in all guest rooms.
TOKYU HOTEL, KYOTO
The hotel’s contemporary interpretation of traditional Kyoto values has earned the Kyoto Scenic Beauty Award, as well as the BCS Awards for excellence in modern architecture. From the impressive main entrance, and the courtyard water feature recreating the simple purity of the city’s Horikawa River, the atmosphere of quiet composure communicates a sense of calm and relaxation to every guest.
The modern rooms have Tempur comfort pillows and a satellite LCD TV. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. All rooms are air-conditioned and include a fridge and an electric kettle