Join us on this intimate experience, limited to 6 guests. Our host, a resident of Japan, welcomes you on this two-week discovery of the land of the rising sun.
In our first week, we explore the classic wonders of Japan, traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto. Appreciate the contrast between modern, even futuristic architecture and centuries-old temples in Tokyo. Discover the storehouse of Japanese traditional culture in Kyoto, complete with a geisha experience and a night in a Ryokan.
In our second week, we go off the beaten track, where we uncover the country's hidden gems. From the surreal Kyoto region to the Japanese Alps of Kanazawa, where we experience glamping at the foot of Mount Fuji, we ensure an impeccable experience is had by all. Enjoy the beautiful countryside of Takayama. Experience a night in a temple, partaking in the Monk's traditional way of life, meditating in their peaceful environment. Discover and appreciate a rich palette of local Japanese cuisine, from Kaiseki to street food and Michelin-starred restaurants to simple, yet memorable, monk vegetarian dishes.
Today, we welcome you to Tokyo, where you will be transferred by a private car and greeted at the property by your hosts. After time to freshen up at your hotel, we hold a welcome dinner, at Gonpachi restaurant. Famous for being the setting of the famous fight scene in Kill Bill, you will be riveted.
Today, we explore the city with our private guide, starting in one of busiest urban hubs - Tokyo. Shinjuku and its skyscrapers were the setting of the well known "Lost in Translation" movie and Shibuya is famous for its bustling street crossing! Tonight, we discover the exciting food scene, with our best recommendations.
Today, we have a full day-trip to Hakone, a mountainous town, famous for its intriguing hot springs and views of the iconic volcano - Mount Fuji. In the evening we return to Tokyo, where we enjoy our last night, with the best recommendations and suggestions from your obliging hosts.
This morning, we ease into our transition from modern cities to traditional ones by visiting Asakusa district, where an older Tokyo atmosphere has been retained. We stop at Senso-ji, a Buddhist temple built in the 7th century, before making our way to the train station where we board the iconic Japanese bullet train. On arrival in Kyoto, we provide recommendations to ensure that your first exploration of the city will be a magical one.
Today, our private guide introduces us to some of Kyoto's most famous sights and we head off the beaten path to some remarkable spots. After our exciting tour, we discover the fascinating world of the Kabuki Theater, before heading towards Kamo river for an evening a wonderful evening at leisure. Here, we uncover a great selection of traditional restaurants, whisky bars and jazz clubs! We guarantee that there will be something for everyone!
We depart for Arashiyama and start with a romantic old train ride through Hozugawa Valley, taking in the red colors of Japanese maple leaves in fall. Arriving at Arashiyama, we trade our train for a bicycle and become acquainted with the various temples and shrines, impressive bamboo grove, Monkey's Park and the Japanese gardens. Back in Kyoto, we prepare to delight in the mysterious world of Geishas accompanied by dinner.
The last day of our first week together, will be spent relaxing in a traditional Ryokan or a Japanese Inn with bathing facilities and traditional food. Located in Arima Onsen, a hot spring area, its a one-hour car trip from Kyoto. After an ideal day of rejuvenation, we dive into the finest Japanese traditions and spend the night in the astounding Arima.
We bid farewell to our guests returning to home and ensure that they receive a private airport transfer. Guests staying on, will enjoy a day at leisure (recommendations will be provided) while we welcome guests arriving for week 2. In the evening, we hold a welcome dinner at one of our favorite Kyoto eateries.
Get ready to discover the Okunoin, a dramatic temple and cemetery - one of Japan's most sacred sites. We continue with an authentic experience of the Zen Monks' lifestyle and spend the night at a temple in an austere monk cell. Meander through the gardens, relax in their hot spring baths, enjoy a memorable traditional Buddhist meal and soothe your soul.
Curious minds will have the opportunity to participate in the early morning ceremony honoring the ancestors, followed by a Goma fire ritual. The consecrated fire is believed to have a powerful cleansing effect spiritually and psychologically. We then head to the colorful wonderland of Mount Yoshin, where have lunch at a 3-star Michelin restaurant. The afternoon will be dedicated to visiting Today-ji temple, one of the world's largest wooden structures, and home to Japan's largest Buddha statue. We return to Kyoto, for the last time.
Traveling on the famous and swift bullet train, we arrive in Kanazawa or "little Kyoto". We stroll amid the fragrant food stands of the Omicho Market and sample an array of Japanese street foods. After an unforgettable lunch experience, we journey to Kanazawa Castle park, before exploring Higashiyama district, boasting a number of traditional tea houses. It is also a neighborhood famous for gold leaf craft! We end the day with a private cooking lesson, where we learn the art of preparing sushi and enjoy it afterwards, of course!
Today we walk through Kenroku-en Garden or visit one of the nearby museums, including the 21st Century Museum, where art produced since 1980 is housed or, the Suzuki Museum, which showcases a sublime "Water Garden". We then depart for the Japanese Alps and Shirakawa-go, a World Cultural Heritage site. The village has typical "Gassho" style houses, built from wooden beams with thatched roofs. We spend the night in a glamorous Japanese style residence and enjoy a Hida-Beef meal.
Delight in a glamping experience at the foot of Mount Fuji! After a walk through the narrow streets of centuries-old Takayama, we depart for Hoshinoya Fuji, located on a red pine slope overlooking lake Kawaguchi. Have a nap in your minimalist, yet luxurious cabin overlooking the water and mountain. Quench your palate with one of the Japanese whiskey selections, or relish the aroma of the bonfire. Then, experience mouthwatering cuisine!
This morning, we have the chance to partake in a wake-up session that involves brewing coffee outdoors, while nibbling on seasonal snacks. Enjoy a canoeing adventure, where you will row across the placid waters of the lake, or a horseback ride amid the woods below Mount Fuji. After lunch, we make our way to Tokyo, where we have a guided tour through the most exciting nightlife districts of the Metropole, before our farewell dinner.
This inspiring journey has to come to an end. Or, does it? We can send you home with a lifetime of memories, inner peace, and good laughs, or maybe you are interested in extending your journey? Allow us to make the necessary arrangements, just for you. If you joined us for the second week, allow us to indulge you in a few extra days in Tokyo. Hiroshima, Osaka, or Seoul in South Korea are also options that will allow you to discover more Far East mysteries.
Our day-to-day itinerary may, from time to time and prior to departure, need to be altered or slightly modified to address possible unforeseen logistical and weather challenges. In such rare instances, Art In Voyage guarantees delivery of the content of the itinerary yet, in a different order.
All listed retreats (hotels, villas, and barges) are, at times, subject to changes. In such rare instances, similar or higher standards will be upheld.
Deposit non refundable in case of a cancellation by the guest more than 24 hours after making the reservation. However, it is fully insured in case of cancelation for covered reasens. click here to learn more
In case of a cancelation within the penalty period: Find a replacement at least 30 days prior to departure and your journey will be fully refunded, minus a $500 per person administrative fee.
