7 Days Winter Discovery | Snow Monkey

Day 1 Osaka | Arrive in Japan & Check-in Hotel

Welcome to Japan! We will have transportation services to take you to your hotel. Please refer to your tour app for more information.
Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow.

**INFORMATION**
From KIX Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 70 mins (Bus)
From ITM Airport to downtown hotel in Osaka - about 30 mins (Bus)

Day 2 Kyoto & Nara | Meet & Greet the friendly Deer of Nara

We start our day with a visit to Todaiji Temple in Nara. Todaiji Temple holds the Guinness World Record as the largest wooden building. Inside the temple, you will behold the largest Buddha statue in Japan. Just outside the temple is Nara Deer Park, where you will be greeted by numerous deer that roam around freely. The deer here at the park are known to be friendly and may even bow at you for a little treat.

Next, we take a stroll through Naramachi. Naramachi is an area preserving old townscapes, where you can explore traditional shops, historic buildings, and quaint streets that offer a glimpse into Japan's past.

We then head to Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a mesmerizing pathway up the mountain. This iconic site is a must-visit for its stunning beauty and spiritual significance.

Afterward, we visit the Samurai & Ninja Museum, where you can learn about the fascinating history and culture of these legendary Japanese warriors. Engage with interactive exhibits and even try on samurai armor or ninja costumes for an immersive experience.

Day 3 Kyoto | Dine with Japan's Next Generation of Geisha Artisans

Today, our Kyoto tour begins with a visit to Arashiyama. The morning's sunlight passing through the bamboo makes for a perfect morning sight. We will also enjoy a spirited rickshaw ride through the bamboo grove. You will be welcomed by the friendly smiles of the Rickshaw drivers who are both entertaining and very knowledgeable. They will also take amazing pictures for you in the Bamboo forest that you will want to show all your friends back home.

Following our time in Arashiyama, we will head to the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkakuji Temple, a Japan’s must see attraction where the two upper floors are covered in gold leaf. The reflection of the golden temple on the lake adds to the stunning sight.

Next, Next will be the ancient street of Ninenzaka. The street is filled with shops and souvenir stands as well as a great place for photos and to see what Japan looked like many years ago. We will also partake in a hands-on lesson on the tea ceremony. Learn about the history and meaning behind the ceremony as you watch it being performed before your eyes. Try your hand at making a traditional cup of matcha! We then proceed to the hotel. You will also have the option to see the colorful Kyoto Station light show projected on the grand staircase.

Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a Maiko. Maiko are apprentice to Geisha. During the dinner, you will able to see her perform Japanese traditional dances, chances to take photos, and ask questions about her life as a Maiko. It is a great opportunity to learn about Kyoto's traditional culture.

Day 4 Mt. Fuji & Hakone | Scenic Views of Japan's most Famous Mountain

Today, we headed to Hakone, a popular weekend getaway destination from Tokyo. Here, you get to see sulfur smoke coming from active volcano vents and, if weather permits, a stunning view of Mt. Fuji.

First, we will experience the thrill of riding the Shinkansen (bullet train). The Shinkansen is the fastest way to travel on land and offers a comfortable and efficient journey, providing scenic views along the way.

Next, we will take a relaxing ride on the Hakone Ropeway down to Owakudani Valley. The ropeway provides a scenic view of the Hakone area and, if weather permits, Mt. Fuji. We will explore Owakudani, giving you enough time to marvel at the active natural volcanic vents and try the black egg. Boiled in one of the vents, it is said that eating one of these eggs will add 7 years to your life.

Following lunch, we will visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Enjoy viewing the numerous sculptures and stroll through the beautiful nature and stunning landscape of Hakone. After a full day of exploration and culture, we will head to Tokyo. Enjoy a relaxing evening and reflect on the day's adventures.

Day 5 Tokyo | Tour Tokyo Landmarks including Historic Asakusa

We start off our Tokyo tour with a visit to Tokyo's Tsukiji Fish Market, the former home of the world-famous tuna auction. Browse through the freshest flavors, mouth-watering dishes, and incredible sushi meals at this market that serves over thousands of businesses and local families daily before we explore the rest of the sights in Tokyo!

The tour will then head to the old town district of Asakusa where you can purchase traditional Japanese souvenirs at the Nakamise area and explore Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and the most popular temples in Tokyo.

For lunch, enjoy a Japanese seasonal dining experience.

Then we are off to Harajuku to explore the famous Takeshita Street and Omotesando area. The area is filled with cute shops, delicious crepes, high end stores, and beautiful cafés and restaurants. Don't forget to check out the Cat Café and Headgehog café for those who love animals.

We will then make our way to the famous Shibuya Crosswalk to be part of the thousands who cross daily. This crosswalk gathers as much foot traffic as New York City, and crossing is an experience unlike any other.

Day 6 Nagano | Snow Monkeys in Sight

Today is the day you've been waiting for during your Winter Japan Tour! It's off to the remarkable Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yudanaka. Home to the popular snow monkeys, Jigokudani is best place to go in all Japan to see cute, furry snow monkey bathing in the natural Japanese hot-springs. Unlike other breeds of monkey, the snow monkey are capable of handling much colder temperatures, and are only found in Japan thanks to the abundance of natural Japanese hot-springs. Although some monkey prefer to stay in the mountains, tourists flock to Jigokudani to see snow monkey bathing special designated hot springs meant just for them. Some of the snow monkeys may have a little mound of snow on top of their heads, but they never seem to mind as long as they can unwind in the hot-springs.

Yudanaka is also a popular hot-springs resort, offering a traditional atmosphere in the mountains of Japan. Admire the stunning scenery of the Japanese mountains while traveling to see adorable snow monkeys. Stop by for a relaxing free foot-bath during your vacation or pause to pick up some traditional Japanese souvenirs or snacks while touring this charming mountain town. After following your tour guide through Yudanaka, we will then return to the hotel.

Day 7 Tokyo | Tour Disbands & Depart from Japan

Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast.
Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan.

**INFORMATION**
From downtown hotel in Tokyo to Narita Airport - about 90 mins(Bus)
From downtown hotel in Tokyo to Haneda Airport - about 30 mins(Bus)