Embark on a journey to Japan, a land where ancient traditions and modern wonders blend seamlessly, creating an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. Japan, an archipelago of over 6,800 islands, offers a unique blend of timeless culture, natural beauty, and contemporary luxury. From the serene temples and cherry blossom gardens of Kyoto to the vibrant, pulsating streets of Tokyo, Japan presents a multitude of diverse landscapes, each narrating its own story.
Japanese cuisine, recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance, offers an exquisite array of flavors. From skillfully prepared sushi to sumptuous kaiseki meals, every dish is a work of art, promising not just a meal but an extraordinary experience.
Nature in Japan paints a picture of serene beauty. The snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji, a symbol of the nation, offers a majestic backdrop to the tranquil hot springs and peaceful rural villages. In contrast, Japan’s urban landscapes showcase architectural marvels and a vibrant arts scene, blending the traditional with the futuristic.
What truly sets Japan apart is its deep-rooted hospitality, known as “Omotenashi.” This spirit of welcoming guests wholeheartedly ensures that every aspect of your journey is imbued with respect, care, and attention to detail.
As you plan your luxurious escape to Japan, prepare to be enthralled by a country that gracefully balances the elegance of its past with the innovation of the future, creating a travel experience that is as enriching as it is enchanting.
Travel to Kyoto, a cultural hub for the country, where you can bask in the serenity surrounding the iconic Golden Pavilion. See the Giouji Temple — a Buddhist place of worship set amidst a moss-covered forest — and feast on a traditional Kyo-Kaiseki lunch as you watch an apprentice geisha perform beside you. In Tokyo, choose to make decadent sushi rolls using the finest quality fish during a private cooking class or join a Local Expert and explore the fashionable Omotesando and Harajuku neighbourhoods before sampling a local lunch. Then discover the river valley of the Oirase Gorge, walking along its crystal-clear waters while marvelling at the amber leaves that surround you. Later, journey to a local brewery for a private sake tasting and behind-the-scenes tour, led by a sake brew master.
Highlights
- Meet a Survivor of the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb – Experience a truly poignant travel moment, as you meet a survivor of the 1945 Hiroshima atomic bomb, which destroyed most of the city during World War II and changed world history forever.
- Kyoto Highlight Lunch with Geisha Performance – Enjoy a performance by a Maiko, an apprentice Geisha, skilled in the art of classical dance and entertainment, as you savour a Highlight Lunch of traditional Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine. Admire the balance of taste, texture and colour in this Kyoto speciality.
- Meet a Traditional Inn Owner at Matsushima Bay – Meet the owner of a traditional Japanese inn set in the dazzling Matsushima Bay, which has inspired poetry over the centuries. Hear more about her life and local traditions in the pine covered islands as you cruise between them.
- Oirase Private Sake Tasting with Brew Master – Enjoy a rare opportunity to meet a brewmaster, Takumi Sato, and learn about the essence of sake in a special guided visit of his brewery. Share some of the sacred drink of Japan in the stunning surroundings of Oirase.