Travel Advisors of Los Gatos
September 7 – 20, 2025
Book Now & Save $250 Per Person
Double $8,649 $8,399
Single $9,649 $9,399
For bookings made after Mar 08, 2025 call for rates.
Included in Price: Round Trip Air from San Francisco Intl Airport, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges, Hotel Transfers
Not included in the price: Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $549 per person
* All Rates are Per Person and are subject to change, based on air-inclusive packages from SFO
A deposit of $698 per person is due upon reservation. Reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations made after the seat reduction date of March 01, 2025, are based upon availability.
Final payment is due by June 09, 2025. Deposits are refundable up until March 08, 2025.
14 Days ● 18 Meals: 12 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners
HIGHLIGHTS… Tokyo, Ginza, Asakusa Sensoji Shrine, Tea Ceremony, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise, Matsumoto Castle, Takayama, Sake Tasting and Hida Beef Dinner, Choice on Tour: Takayama Jinya or Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan, Kaiseki Dinner, Shirakawa-go, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Bullet Train, Hiroshima, Maiko Show
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
Day 1 Overnight Flight
Days 2 – 4 Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba, Tokyo
Day 5 Odakyu Hotel de Yama, Hakone
Days 6, 7 Takayama Green Hotel, Takayama
Days 8, 9 Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, Kanazawa
Days 10 – 13 Nikko Princess Hotel Kyoto, Kyoto
On some dates, alternate hotels may be used.
Itinerary
Day 1: Sunday, September 7, 2025 Overnight Flight
Explore ancient and modern Japanese culture firsthand. Discover peaceful temples and technological marvels set against unimaginable natural beauty.
Day 2: Monday, September 8, 2025 Tokyo, Japan
Welcome to Japan, the “Land of the Rising Sun." Arrive in the electrifying city of Tokyo, where pop culture is booming and traditions are rich and long-kept.
Day 3: Tuesday, September 9, 2025 Tokyo
Amid a lush forest outside of Tokyo, visit the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. Feel the excitement start to build as you pass by the grounds of the Imperial Palace and see the Niju Bridge, the well-known symbol of the Imperial Palace. Later, walk through Ginza, one of the most elegant and luxurious streets in the world, where modern landscape meets rich history. Enjoy shopping at some of the most renowned "department stores" in Japan. (B)
Day 4: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 Tokyo
Begin the day exploring Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest Geisha district. Visit the famous Buddhist temple, Senso-ji, the colorful temple famous for the red chochin (lantern) hanging at the entrance gate. Experience the long-standing tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony, dating back to the 15th century. During your free time, explore the Nakamise Shopping Arcade and feel the energy of the oldest shopping street in Japan. Then, head to Tokyo National Museum to learn about the fascinating history and culture of Tokyo. The museum displays artwork and antiques from Japan and the surrounding area. (B, D)
Day 5: Thursday, September 11, 2025 Tokyo - Hakone
Journey to the lakeside resort of Hakone, renowned for its hot springs. In the shadow of Mt. Fuji (UNESCO), this scenic town hugs the shorelines of Lake Ashi. Make a stop at Owakudani, located in an active volcanic zone. The Owakudani crater was created some 3,000 years ago when Mt. Hakone erupted. Climb aboard the Hakone Ropeway, an aerial cable car descending from Owakudani for a breathtaking view* of Mt. Fuji. Next, take to the deep-blue waters of Lake Ashi on a cruise where you’ll see epic views of the local mountains before stopping in the charming town of Moto-Hakone. (B, D)
Day 6: Friday, September 12, 2025 Hakone - Matsumoto - Takayama
This breathtaking day begins in Matsumoto at Matsumoto Castle is known as the “Crow Castle” because of its striking black exterior. Later, you’ll step back in time in the rural Edo-period town of Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps. Well known to the locals for its connection to sake, this is the perfect place to gather for a visit to one of Japan’s 200-year-old sake breweries. Afterward, experience a true Japanese epicurean treat – traditional rice wine paired with a special Hida beef dinner. (B,D)
Day 7: Saturday, September 13, 2025 Takayama
The ancient cultures of Takayama come alive during a guided walk in the town’s historic district. Stroll through the morning market, a 600-year-old open-air market with locally grown and produced products, located along the Miyagawa River. Circuit the winding streets, where the town’s traditional charms are preserved in the inns and houses. Here, it’s your choice! Choose to glimpse into the past at the 19th-century Takayama Jinya, a former government building -OR- visit the Matsuri Yatai Kaikan and view intricate, traditional, hand-carved floats used in festivals. This afternoon, relish some free time to continue your exploration of Takayama on your own before enjoying a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner. (B, D)
Day 8: Sunday, September 14, 2025 Takayama - Shirakawa-go - Kanazawa
Today, embrace the unique charms of Shirakawa-go (UNESCO). Hidden away in the mountain, this harmonious village is famous for its gassho-zukuri-style houses – thatched rooftops designed to resemble two hands joined in prayer. Journey to Kanazawa, the origin of gold-leaf making since the 16th century.
Visit the Geisha quarters of Kanazawa, the Higashi Tea district, and then onto the beauty of Japan’s most stunning gardens, where more than 25 acres of absolute beauty await you at Kenroku-En – Garden of Six Qualities. (B)
Day 9: Monday, September 15, 2025 Kanazawa
Visit the Samurai district where we will enter the former home of the Nomuras, a wealthy samurai family who served the ruling Maeda family. Dive into the ancient craft of gold leaf making during a hands-on lesson in decorating your own lacquer box! In the center of town, take in the action of the Omicho fish market before venturing out on your own to really immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s dynamic culture. (B)
Day 10: Tuesday, September 16, 2025 Kanazawa - Kyoto
Today, Kyoto awaits! Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha for a tour of the most revered shrine of Inari. Follow the spectacular rows of orange torii (made famous in the movie Memoirs of a Geisha) that weave through the forest, leading you to the inner shrine. The former Imperial capital of Japan is now one of the nation’s top cosmopolitan cities. At the same time, Kyoto’s connection with its past is strong; you won’t need to look far to see one of its 2,000 temples and shrines. Later, visit the Women’s Association of Kyoto in a traditional Kyoto townhouse. Here, delve into a wide array of enlightening Japanese activities, guided by your knowledgeable hostess. Try your hand at making sushi and learn to fold intricate origami shapes. (B, D)
Day 11: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Kyoto
This morning, visit Kinkaku-ji Temple (UNESCO), known as the Golden Pavilion, because its top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
Enjoy the remainder of your day to explore more of Kyoto at your leisure. (B)
Day 12: Thursday, September 18, 2025 Kyoto - Bullet Train - Hiroshima - Kyoto
All aboard the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, board a ferry for the short trip to Miyajima Island, or “Shrine Island” (UNESCO). Afterwards, head to Hiroshima city to visit the Peace Memorial Park, and pause to see the ruined Atomic Dome (UNESCO). Refect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. As this long and moving day comes to a close, return to Kyoto by the Shinkansen bullet train. (B)
Day 13: Friday, September 19, 2025 Kyoto
Today, visit Nijo Castle, the home of the first Shogun (UNESCO), and see intricate woodcarvings, wall paintings, and the Ninomaru Garden, designed by Kobori Enshu, a landscape architect and tea master.
Next, learn about the ancient craft of stencilling during a hands-on lesson. This afternoon, spend some time relaxing or set out to explore Kyoto on your own. Fully immerse yourself in Japanese culture tonight during a special farewell dinner and maiko show. (B, D)
Day 14: Saturday, September 20, 2025 Kyoto - Tour End
Your tour comes to a close in this fascinating land. As you depart, reflect on its beauty and all you have learned about its rich history and culture. (B)
IMPORTANT CONDITIONS: Your price is guaranteed once the deposit is received and Collette confirms the booking. Your price is not subject to increase after the deposit is received and booking confirmed, except for charges resulting from increases in government-imposed taxes or fees.
If you require any special assistance while on tour, please make us aware at the time of reservation so the necessary request form can be sent to your attention.
The day we visit Hiroshima from Kyoto will be your longest touring day with an early morning departure before 8:00 a.m. and an evening return to the hotel after 8:00 p.m.
The days and order of sightseeing may change to best utilize your time on tour.
Museum visits and shopping may be affected by the observance of religious or local holidays.
Some venues, such as temples and shrines, require guests to remove their shoes to enter. We recommend wearing footwear that is easily removed for sightseeing on these days.
*The view of Mt. Fuji from the Hakone Ropeway is weather-dependent.
Golden Week is a cluster of national holidays in Japan, including Showa Day (April 29th), Constitution Memorial Day (May 3rd), Greenery Day (May 4th), and Children's Day (May 5th). During Golden Week, popular tourist destinations tend to be extremely crowded, and many businesses, including attractions and restaurants, operate on altered schedules. It's essential to anticipate traffic congestion and longer than usual wait times for any attractions and transportation. We reserve the right to modify the order of your inclusions during this period, without prior notice.
Bon Holiday (Obon) is a Buddhist holiday honoring the spirits of ancestors that occur in mid-August. During the Bon holiday, many Japanese people travel to their hometowns to pay respects to their ancestors, resulting in increased traffic congestion and crowded public transportation. Some businesses may also close or operate with reduced hours during this time.
Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The single rate is subject to change based on availability. Triple and child accommodations are not available.
This tour provides authentic dining experiences. Vegan, vegetarian, and even gluten-free diets are uncommon in Japan and not widely catered to.
If you have any dietary restrictions, please notify us at time of booking so we can accommodate you as best as possible.
To complete your tour, we include roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers when purchasing our airfare with your tour. If you have arranged for your own air, we are pleased to provide you the option of purchasing these transfers. Please note that all transfers will leave at pre-scheduled times.
For air-inclusive reservations, the name provided at the time of booking must match your government-issued ID that will be used during travel. Name changes are subject to penalties.
Please be advised many airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until check-in at the airport. Advance seating will be subject to the airline's terms and conditions.
Flights arrive in Tokyo and depart from Osaka.
Our air passengers will be departing from Kansai Airport or Itami Airport (depending on your flight schedule). All transfers will depart from the Kyoto hotel for either Kansai Airport or Itami Airport.
Return fights should not be booked from Kansai Airport or Itami Airport before 9:00 a.m.
Book Now rates are valid until Feb 08, 2025, and valid on air-inclusive packages only.
Economy air rates and schedules are applicable for groups of 10 or more traveling on the same flights and dates.
Travel Requirements:
IDENTIFICATION
Passports are required for this tour at your expense. Certain countries require that your passport be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.
IMPORTANT: We recommend that travelers take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.
Each traveler is responsible for proper documentation and inoculations that may be required and/or recommended to participate in this tour.
Please contact your local travel clinic or personal physician for specific details on the destinations you are traveling to and from.
Please be aware that if your fight schedule is via Dubai or if you are stopping over in Dubai and are carrying narcotic drugs, controlled or semicontrolled drugs, then you will be required to complete an electronic form before entering the country, to obtain approval to carry medication.
Please use the link https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-of-permit-toimport-medicines-for-personal-use to view the guidelines. A user's guide is available to explain the application and the supporting documents required.
A deposit of $698 per person is due upon reservation. Reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations made after the seat reduction date of March 01, 2025 are based upon availability.
Final payment is due by June 09, 2025. Deposits are refundable up until March 08, 2025.
CST#2006766-20 UBN#601220855 Nevada Sellers of Travel Registration No.
2003-0279