Majestic Japan

Majestic Japan

1,327 Views
11 Days From

$9195

Majestic Japan

11 Days Starting in Osaka, Japan and ending in Tokyo, Japan

Visiting: Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Mt Fuji, Tokyo, Sendai, Hirosaki, Oirase Gorge

Tour operator:

Luxury Gold

Tour code:

A610ZM20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Special diets catered:

Please advise request

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Luxury

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $9195

NB: Prices correct on 21-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Be captivated by the beauty and traditions of Japan during this 11-day guided tour. 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 neighborhoods before sampling a local lunch. Then discover the river valley of the Oirase Gorge, walking along its crystal-clear waters while marveling 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.

Choice Highlights

  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Mt Fuji: Visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, where you’ll enjoy its unique architecture, wander the serene gardens and marvel at its collection of beautiful kimonos.
  • Mt Fuji: Ride the Kachi-Kachi Ropeway cable car to fully embrace the breathtaking views of the lake and the mountain.
  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Tokyo: Participate in a private sushi-making class in Tokyo and discover why it takes ten years to perfect this 2000-year-old Japanese art from a master sushi chef. Afterwards, enjoy a freshly prepared Highlight Lunch where you can marvel at his culinary brilliance.
  • Tokyo: Join a Local Expert and head to the Omotesando and Harajuku neighbourhoods known for their fashion, art and design before indulging in lunch.

Exceptional Dining

Osaka: Meet your fellow travellers at  your dinner. Raise your glass to the start of your luxury tour of Japan.

Osaka: Discover why Osaka is known as the kitchen of Japan on a stroll through Donburi street with a Local Expert. Taste local specialities such as rounds of ground octopus wrapped in batter, called Takoyaki.

Hiroshima: Indulge in the local favourite of okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake dish consisting of wheat flour batter and other ingredients cooked on a teppan.

Kyoto: Enjoy a performance by a Maiko, an apprentice Geisha, skilled in the art of classical dance and entertainment, as you savour a lunch of traditional Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine. Admire the balance of taste, texture and colour in this Kyoto speciality.

Tokyo: During a Your Choice Evening, choose from two hand-picked restaurants, each specialising in local delicacies. Try Shabu-shabu, sizzling hotpots of meat and vegetables, or Teppan-yaki, where rice, meats and vegetables are freshly cooked on the grill in front of you.

Sendai: Experience a truly Japanese tradition when you enjoy a tea ceremony at a traditional tea house. Learn the art of making the perfect matcha green tea as you follow the custom.

Oirase: 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.

Tokyo: Tradition meets innovation as you enjoy a fine dining experience with new friends at Hoshinonaruki. Using age-old Japanese culinary techniques and seasonal ingredients, this is a dining experience that truly brings the flavour of the country to life.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Osaka, Japan

たけほがら

Location: Osaka

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Imperial Hotel, Osaka.

Meals Included: Dinner

Enjoy a private transfer to your five-star hotel to begin your Japan luxury tour. Tonight, awaken your tastebuds with tempura and sushi over stunning views over Osaka’s skyline

Day 2: Highlights Of Osaka Relaxed Start

たけほがら

Location: Osaka

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Imperial Hotel, Osaka.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take in 360-degree city views from the Floating Garden Observatory in the skyscraper, Umeda Sky. Continue your exploration of striking architecture at Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks and pivotal in the reunification of Japan during the 16th century. Discover Osaka’s foodie hub of Dotonbori Street on a gastronomic walking tour.

Day 3: A Local Perspective On Hiroshima

CRISTINA TIRON

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Thousands, Kyoto.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Sit back and relax while you travel past small towns, rice fields and snow-capped mountains, arriving in Hiroshima by Shinkansen (bullet train). Explore Peace Memorial Park and Museum and meet a survivor who will share moving insights. Indulge in okonomiyaki pancakes before arriving in Kyoto, known for thousands of years as the Imperial capital of Japan.

Day 4: The Temples And Geisha Of Kyoto Relaxed Start

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Thousands, Kyoto.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Uncover Kyoto’s ancient traditions and revered culture on a city tour. Marvel at the Zen Buddhist temple Kinkakuji’s famed Golden Pavilion, Giouji Temple and take a quiet stroll through a grove of bamboo and maple trees. In the Gion district, dine on classic Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine and appreciate the talents of a Maiko, an apprentice geisha. Stroll around the vibrant neighbourhood, Kyoto's primary geisha district, and perhaps enjoy the local teahouses, lantern-lit restaurants and bars.

Day 5: Mt. Fuji And On To Tokyo

Location: Mt Fuji

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Board the bullet train to Mishima for spectacular views of Mount Fuji and admire its reflection in Lake Kawaguchi. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before visiting Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to admire the nature-inspired kimono designs or revelling in mountain views from the Kachi-Kachi Ropeway cable car to Mount Tenjo.

Day 6: Explore Traditional Tokyo Relaxed Start

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit the Tokyo National Museum and Meiji Jingu Shrine. Learn to make sushi with a Master Sushi Chef or explore Omotesando and Harajuku. Tailor your evening at a restaurant specialising in Shabu-shabu or Teppanyaki.

Day 7: Journey To Sendai

Location: Sendai

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Westin, Sendai.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hear insights into island life in Sendai, joining the owner of a local inn for a fresh seafood lunch. A private cruise shows off the impressive views of Matsushima Bay before a traditional tea ceremony.

Day 8: Tsugaru And Hirosaki Castle

Location: Hirosaki

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, Oirase Gorge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

At Hirosaki Castle, meet a cherry blossom doctor. Explore the Tsugaru-han Neputa Village to see the colourful decorations used during the summer Neputa Festival and watch skilled craftsman who have perfected the art of lacquering chopsticks. Enjoy a private performance of traditional Tsugaru Shamisen guitar and Taiko drumming.

Day 9: Exploring Oirase Relaxed Start

Location: Oirase Gorge

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, Oirase Gorge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Discover Japan’s nature haven of Oirase Gorge’s, admiring its waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. Enjoy a soothing Onsen bath in the nearby forest before ending the day with a visit to Miurashuzo family-run sake brewery for a private VIP tasting and tour.

Day 10: The Highlights Of Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Explore Askusa neighbourhood's Senso-ji Buddhist Temple, the oldest temple in Japan. Stroll down Nakamise Street, where colourful Japanese souvenirs of traditional dress such as yukata and folding fans are on display. Celebrate your travels over fine dining at Hoshinonaruki.

Day 11: Farewell Japan

Location: Tokyo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Osaka to Tokyo luxury tour ends with your private car to Narita or Haneda International Airport for your onward journey.

What's Included

  • Meals

    Meals are included as detailed in the itinerary.

  • Additional Services

    Personal radio headsets are provided for visits to famous highlights, and hotel Wi-Fi is available where possible.

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    Complimentary airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold.

  • Fully Guided

    You will be escorted by a Travel Concierge, serving as your expert guide and organizer.

  • Dining Summary

    The tour includes 5 dinners, 10 breakfasts, and 7 lunches.

  • Additional Included Highlights

    Enjoy seamless personal assistance, Local Expert Guides, hotel taxes, porterage, tips, and complimentary hotel Wi-Fi.

  • Curated Experiences

    Experience unique moments such as meeting a Hiroshima survivor and walking along Oirase Gorge.

  • Magnificent Stays

    Stay at luxurious hotels like the Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, offering five-star facilities.

  • Passport Moments

    Explore landmarks like Osaka Castle and the Floating Garden Observatory, and enjoy a private cruise in Matsushima Bay.

  • Personalise your day

    Choose activities like visiting the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum or participating in a sushi-making class.

What's Not Included

International TravelInternational travel to and from Japan is not included.

Dining Summary

  • 5 Dinner (D)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 7 Lunch (L)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
  • In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.  ?
  • Included at all hotels.
  • Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.?
  • Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
  • On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.
  • Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.
  • Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.

Curated Experiences

  • Hiroshima: 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.
  • Oirase Gorge: Take a gentle walk along the Oirase Gorge in the Hachimantai National Park. Each season brings its own colour palette while unique rock formations and the burbling river is a pleasure to follow.

Magnificent Stays

  • Oirase Gorge: Ideally situated moments away from the serene Oirase Keiryua stream, the Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel is a luxurious resort hotel and offers spacious bedrooms, five-star facilities and easy access to natural hot springs situated in the nearby forest.

Passport Moments

  • Osaka: Explore the fascinating Osaka Castle, a famous landmark that was pivotal in the reunification of Japan during the 16th century. Marvel at the variety of cultural artefacts showcasing the history of Osaka.
  • Osaka: Visit the top of the Floating Garden Observatory in the Umeda Sky Building for incredible city views.
  • Hiroshima: Experience travelling like a local as you ride the high-speed bullet train. Catch views of snow capped mountains and quaint Japanese towns as you journey between each city. This feat of modern engineering brings new joy to train rides.
  • Hiroshima: Spend some quiet moments in the emotive Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and see the A-Bomb Dome, the only structure left standing.
  • Kyoto: Wander around the famous Giouji Temple, where the bamboo trees and green groves inspire relaxation. This tiny temple with the thatched roof entrance is a sanctuary and one of the most scenic temples you’ll see in the city.
  • Kyoto: Join your Travel Concierge for an orientation of Gion neighbourhood, known as Kyoto's geisha district. See well-preserved wooden machiya houses and perhaps experience the electric ambiance of a local bar or restaurant.
  • Kyoto: Visit the stunning Zen Buddhist temple of Kinkaku-ji, with its glittering Golden Pavilion and hear about its intriguing history. Then, explore the vibrant Gion neighbourhood, where you may spot a Geisha or two.
  • Tokyo: Take a sightseeing tour of Tokyo with your Travel Concierge to spot many places of interest in this bustling capital city.
  • Matsushima Bay: Take in views of the many pine clad islets in Matsushima Bay on a private cruise. Hear about the many haikus featuring the bay describing it as a place of love and wonder.
  • 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.
  • Hirosaki: Learn about the meticulous care and nurturing of cherry blossom trees from a specialised cherry blossom doctor who ensures that each one, from sapling to mature tree, is healthy and thriving during the beautiful season each April.
  • Tsugaru han Neputa Village: See the colourful decorations, which take a year to create, being prepared for the summer Neputa Festival by local craftsmen. Witness a private musical performance of Tsugaru Shamisen and Taiko, a traditional style of Japanese guitar and drumming.
  • Tokyo: Pay a visit to the Senso-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo and the site of a large late spring festival, which many international visitors attend. This significant place of worship is dedicated to Kannon Bosatsu, the Bodhisattva of compassion.
  • Tokyo: Wander down one of Japan's oldest shopping streets, Nakamise Street, which dates back to the 17th century. If you're feeling peckish, visit Kappabashi, the back street that is also known as the foodie hub of Tokyo.

Personalise your day

  • Mt Fuji: Visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, where you’ll enjoy its unique architecture, wander the serene gardens and marvel at its collection of beautiful kimonos.
  • Mt Fuji: Ride the Kachi-Kachi Ropeway cable car to fully embrace the breathtaking views of the lake and the mountain.
  • Tokyo: Participate in a private sushi-making class in Tokyo and discover why it takes ten years to perfect this 2000-year-old Japanese art from a master sushi chef. Afterwards, enjoy a freshly prepared Highlight Lunch where you can marvel at his culinary brilliance.
  • Tokyo: Join a Local Expert and head to the Omotesando and Harajuku neighbourhoods known for their fashion, art and design before indulging in lunch.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with private transfers and the iconic Shinkansen bullet train, offering seamless connections between cities. Enjoy complimentary airport transfers on start and end dates, ensuring a smooth journey throughout Japan.

Accommodation

Stay at luxurious hotels like the Imperial Hotel in Osaka, The Thousands in Kyoto, and Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel, offering five-star facilities. Experience the Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel in Oirase Gorge, known for its spacious rooms and access to natural hot springs.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the Majestic Japan tour?

    The Majestic Japan tour includes unique experiences such as meeting a Hiroshima survivor, participating in a traditional tea ceremony in Sendai, and enjoying a private performance of Tsugaru Shamisen guitar and Taiko drumming in Tsugaru-han Neputa Village.

  • What dining experiences can I expect on this tour?

    You can expect a variety of dining experiences including a sushi-making class in Tokyo, tasting local specialties like Takoyaki in Osaka, enjoying okonomiyaki in Hiroshima, and experiencing a fine dining evening in Tokyo with options like Shabu-shabu or Teppan-yaki.

  • Are there any personalized activity options available during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers personalized activity options such as visiting the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum or riding the Kachi-Kachi Ropeway cable car at Mt Fuji, and choosing between a sushi-making class or exploring the Omotesando and Harajuku neighborhoods in Tokyo.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides luxurious accommodations, including stays at the Imperial Hotel in Osaka, The Thousands in Kyoto, and the Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, which offers five-star facilities and access to natural hot springs.

  • What transportation is included in the Majestic Japan tour?

    The tour includes transportation such as private transfers, travel on the Shinkansen (bullet train), and a private cruise in Matsushima Bay.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Absolutely! We are very selective in who we work with and choose to only use hotels that take the health and well-being of our guests as seriously as we do and agree to meet expected guidelines and specifications. We only work with establishments that we are confident will consistently adhere to our standards.

  • Which countries does Luxury Gold visit?

    We offer incredible luxury trips in Europe, North America, South America, Hawaii, South-East Asia, the Indian sub-continent (including India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka), Australia and New Zealand.

  • What other modes of transport does Luxury Gold use?

    A Luxury Gold tour will include touring on high-speed trains, alpine cable cars, hydrofoils, river cruisers and horse-drawn carriages, in addition to our high-deck luxury coaches with extra legroom.

  • Who travels with Luxury Gold?

    We are delighted to welcome guests who have a shared love of travel, adventure, entertainment and exploration. A mix of solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends and family join us from all over the English-speaking world.

  • What is the role of the Well-Being Director?

    Working closely together with your Travelling Concierge, the Well-Being Director* will help make sure all necessary protocols are followed to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our guests. This includes our enhanced screening and hygiene protocols, complying with distancing and other requirements set by government authorities. They are also there to support our guests & answer any questions.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Majesty of the Rockies

21-Jun-2023

The itinerary was fantastic, starting in Banff at the beautiful Fairmont hotel, it set the scene for the next week. As we travelled in the coach surrounded by magnificent snow topped mountains, everyone getting excited when a black bear or elk was spotted! Standing on the glacier with the Columbian Ice Fields above , was magical. Then, on board the Rocky Mountaineer from Kamloops back to Vancouver, was very relaxing. Finishing our trip at the beautiful Douglas hotel was a lovely way to end what was a most memorable trip. Thank you *Personal Information removed by Feefo* and Luxury Gold. Will go home with fantastic memories of a very special part of the world

Trusted Customer  

Ultimate Italy

26-Jun-2023

Trip itinerary was all that we expected. We were treated like royalty at every turn. Our consierge *Personal Information removed by Feefo* was the most loving, caring person that I’ve ever seen, she accomodated our many needs flawlessly and conscientiosly, including special care for those amongst us who had trouble managing the difficult walking conditions which we encountered.She was a true professional and made us feel loke family. Her humor and social skills got everyone together as one .I don’t know how much you pay her, but it isn’t enough.

Trusted Customer  

Spain and Portugal In Style

15-Jun-2023

The guides were amazing, the hotels very nice, the bus was extremely comfortable. Some of the bus days were rather long. Our concierge guide, *personal info removed by Feefo* was beyond terrific. He anticipated needs, was so kind and very organized. Never a misstep

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    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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