InsideJapan Tours has announced the launch of “Majestic Japan,” its latest itinerary. This small-group tour takes travelers through some of the destination’s most iconic cities and cultural landmarks while highlighting Japan’s rural and more off-the-beaten-path locations. The itinerary includes a range of high-end accommodations, meals and a Japan insider on hand to make sure everything runs like clockwork. With a maximum group size of 12 participants, travelers can expect personalized attention and the opportunity to delve deeper into destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Miyajima and more.
The tour begins in Tokyo, exploring ancient temples among the neon high-rises with the likes of Senso-ji temple and the Shibuya crossing. The designated tour guide will reveal the places, the culture, history and customs of the city.
Then, whereas many tours will head south from Tokyo, this itinerary heads west to the small city of Kanazawa, which has samurai districts, old tea house, and Kenroku-en, one of the country’s most beautiful gardens celebrated for its classic landscape designs featuring ponds and streams. Travelers will visit the small town of Kinosaki Onsen, including a stay at a traditional ryokan, Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei, which sits on a winding river and is renowned for its seven hot springs. The best way to experience the hot spring baths is to don yukata robes and stroll from onsen to onsen, relaxing in each of the different hot spring baths at leisure—an exercise called onsen meguri. The tour also heads along the nearby Kyotango peninsula to meet local craftspeople, such as swordsmiths and mother-of-pearl weavers.
In Kyoto, guests will explore iconic sites and the city’s quieter, lesser-known areas as well. From the UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Shrine, to the bamboo forests of Arashiyama, Kyoto offers a glimpse into the ancient traditions of Japan. Travelers will also have the rare opportunity to meet a maiko, or trainee geisha. Guests can stay at the recently opened Hotel Higashiyama. Travelers can witness the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic symbol; enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi; and a cable car ride to the summit of Mount Komagatake with views of the surrounding landscape.
In Hiroshima, they can pay respects at the Peace Memorial Park and A-Bomb Dome, before taking a ferry to the nearby island of Miyajima, famous for its floating torii gate and deer that roam the streets. The island’s beauty, friendly deer population, and tranquility make for an unforgettable experience.
The tour ends in Osaka, where travelers can relish local cuisine and experience the city’s lively atmosphere.
For more information, visit www.insidejapantours.com.
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