Grand Wonders Of Japan (9 Nights)

Upon your arrival in Osaka, Japan, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our friendly Tour Manager or local guide, who will escort you to your hotel. Osaka, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. As Japan’s third-largest city, it boasts a dynamic urban landscape, bustling shopping districts, and a renowned culinary scene. After settling into your accommodation, take some time to relax and unwind, allowing the excitement of your journey to sink in. In the evening, indulge in a delicious Indian dinner, savoring familiar flavors before embarking on your exploration of Japan’s diverse offerings. This marks the beginning of an unforgettable adventure through the Land of the Rising Sun.

Embark on a poignant journey through Japan’s history and natural beauty. Begin your day by boarding the iconic Shinkansen Bullet Train, renowned for its speed and comfort, as you travel to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, you’ll board a ferry to Miyajima Island, where the majestic Floating Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine appears to rise from the sea, creating a mesmerizing sight. Explore the island’s serene landscapes and spiritual ambiance before returning to Hiroshima. Here, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a solemn tribute to the victims of the 1945 atomic bombing. The park houses the Peace Memorial Museum, which offers a profound insight into the events and aftermath of that tragic day. Nearby, the A-Bomb Dome stands as a haunting reminder of the past. Conclude your day with a return journey on the Bullet Train, reflecting on the experiences and emotions of this deeply moving excursion.

Step into the elegance of old Japan as you journey to Kyoto. Begin your day with a visit to the Golden Pavilion, known for its shimmering gold leaf exterior and serene surroundings. Next, immerse yourself in the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks sway gently in the breeze, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Continue your exploration at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that lead you through the forested mountainside. Conclude your day by participating in a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony, a ritual that embodies harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, offering a deep insight into Japanese culture. This experience provides a perfect blend of Kyoto’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Begin your day by visiting Osaka Castle, a symbol of Japan’s rich history. Capture memorable photos of this majestic landmark, surrounded by lush gardens and ancient walls. Afterward, travel to Nara, where you’ll meet the friendly deer in Nara Park, a public park located in the city of Nara, Japan, at the foot of Mount Wakakusa. Established in 1880, it is one of the oldest parks in Japan. Over 1,200 wild sika deer freely roam around the park and are designated as natural treasures. These deer are considered sacred and have been protected for a long time. Visitors can buy special crackers called “deer crackers” to feed the deer, which is one of the major attractions of Nara tourism. However, these deer are still wild animals, so you should always be careful. Afterward, admire the Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple, a Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, that houses the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana, known in Japanese as Daibutsu. The temple is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”. Conclude your day with some retail therapy at the vibrant Shinsaibashi Shopping Street, a commercial avenue stretching north and south for about 580 meters from the south of Nagahori-dori to Soemoncho-dori. Shops of all kinds and for all ages line the street, a roofed arcade 600 meters long. It’s a great place to take a casual stroll and enjoy window-shopping and savoring the food along the way.

Embark on a captivating journey through marine ecosystems at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world’s largest aquariums. Spanning eight floors, the aquarium showcases 15 large tanks, each representing a different region of the Pacific Rim. The highlight is the Pacific Ocean tank, home to whale sharks, manta rays, and hammerhead sharks. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits, including touch tanks where you can feel the texture of stingrays and small sharks.

In the evening, journey to Nabana no Sato, located in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, approximately a 30-minute drive from Nagoya. This expansive flower park transforms into a winter wonderland during its illumination festival, one of Japan’s largest. From late October to late May, the park dazzles visitors with over 8 million LED lights, featuring a 200-meter-long Tunnel of Light and the River of Light, the largest over-water illumination display in Japan. After experiencing the luminous displays, you can relax at the on-site hot springs, Sato no Yu, or enjoy a meal at one of the park’s diverse restaurants.

Your journey continues with a visit to the Toyota Automobile Museum, located in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture, near Nagoya. This museum offers a comprehensive look into the evolution of the automobile industry, featuring over 100 vehicles from Japan and around the world. Exhibits chronicle the development of automobiles from the late 19th century to the present day, highlighting key milestones and technological advancements. The museum also showcases the cultural impact of automobiles through displays of related memorabilia, such as miniature cars, posters, and toys, emphasizing the role of mobility in shaping modern society.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the mountainous region of Gifu Prefecture. This picturesque village is renowned for its traditional gasshō-zukuri farmhouses, characterized by steep thatched roofs resembling hands joined in prayer. These unique structures were designed to withstand heavy snowfall and were historically used for silkworm cultivation. Strolling through Shirakawa-go offers a glimpse into rural Japan’s architectural ingenuity and harmonious coexistence with nature. The village’s serene atmosphere and well-preserved heritage make it a captivating destination for those interested in traditional Japanese culture and history.

Embark on one of Japan’s most breathtaking adventures—the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. This 37.2 km journey through the Northern Japan Alps offers a unique blend of natural beauty and innovative transportation. Traverse the mountains using a combination of cable cars, ropeways, electric buses, and even an underground cable car, each providing distinct perspectives of the alpine landscape. A highlight of the route is the Snow Corridor at Murodo, where towering snow walls reach up to 20 meters in height, creating a dramatic passage through the mountains. These walls are typically accessible to pedestrians from mid-April to late June, offering a rare opportunity to walk amidst the snow-covered peaks. As you journey through the alpine route, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of rugged terrains, serene lakes, and verdant valleys, making this an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Embark on a scenic journey through Hakone, beginning with a cable car ride up Owakudani Valley. Here, you’ll witness active sulfur vents and volcanic landscapes, and have the opportunity to sample the famous “kuro-tamago” (black eggs), believed to add seven years to your life. Next, enjoy a serene cruise on Lake Ashi, offering panoramic views of the lake and, on clear days, Mount Fuji in the distance. The cruise features a unique pirate ship design, adding a whimsical touch to your experience. Afterward, visit Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque village known for its eight crystal-clear ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s snowmelt. The ponds reflect the majestic mountain, creating iconic photo opportunities. Conclude your day with a transfer to Tokyo, cherishing the memories of this unforgettable journey through Japan’s natural beauty.

Embark on a captivating day in Tokyo, immersing yourself in its rich cultural tapestry and modern marvels. Begin with a visit to TeamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum where you can wade through water and interact with mesmerizing light displays. Next, explore the historic Asakusa district, home to Sensō-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, and stroll along Nakamise Dori, a bustling street lined with traditional shops offering local snacks and souvenirs. Ascend to the Tokyo Skytree Observatory, standing at 350 meters, for panoramic views of the city and, on clear days, Mount Fuji in the distance. Experience the vibrant energy of Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection, surrounded by neon lights and bustling crowds. Conclude your day with a scenic Tokyo Bay Dinner Cruise, enjoying a multi-course meal while taking in the illuminated skyline, including landmarks like the Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba district. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of tradition, art, and modernity, showcasing the diverse facets of Tokyo.

After a delightful breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting country. Check out of your hotel and proceed to the airport, carrying with you cherished memories of Japan’s rich culture, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality. As you journey home, reflect on the experiences that made this trip unforgettable. Until we meet again!