Sakura Dreams, Ending in Sapporo

Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.

In the morning, we’ll enjoy an extensive guided tour of this truly mesmerizing city, lasting approximately five hours. Tokyo’s vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist beautifully with its tranquil, serene spaces.

We’ll begin with a brief stop at Zojoji Temple, where you’ll capture one of the most iconic views of the Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are adorned with hundreds of Jizo statues, intricately carved stone figures believed to be protectors of children, dressed in colorful knit caps, bibs, and windmills.

Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, often hailed as the busiest intersection in the world, followed by a visit to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.

Our journey will continue by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue. We’ll then see the most picturesque parts of the Imperial Palace and its gardens and stop to admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.

As we proceed, we’ll pass through the vibrant Akihabara district, also known as the “Electric Town,” a hub for Japanese manga and anime culture. We’ll also drive past the Kokugikan, Japan’s renowned sumo wrestling arena.

We’ll conclude our tour in Asakusa, visiting the historic Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street.

Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel.

At 6:30 p.m., we’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the metro (tickets included) to the lively Shinjuku district. Here, we’ll enjoy a stroll through its bustling streets, renowned for their vibrant nightlife, as we head to a local restaurant for dinner (included). Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel by metro, accompanied by our guide.

Important Note: For groups with fewer than five passengers, the city tour will be conducted using a “Hop-On Hop-Off” tourist bus. These buses follow routes covering Tokyo’s most iconic attractions, allowing you to disembark, explore points of interest, and reboard the next bus at your convenience.

Total distance covered by bullet train: 430 km.

07:00 a.m. - Departure from the hotel. We’ll transfer to Tokyo Station to board a high-speed bullet train. The journey will take approximately two hours and fifteen minutes.

Note: You’ll be accompanied to the station, but during the train journey, a guide will not travel with you if the group for this section of the trip has fewer than 15 people. Upon your arrival at Kyoto Station, our guide will be waiting to continue the tour.

10:30 a.m. - Kyoto. We’ll meet our main guide and begin exploring this historic city, which served as Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and hosted the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to preserve its extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage. Kyoto is also known as the site where the 1997 Kyoto Protocol was signed, a treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Our visit will include the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll admire the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, known as the “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by magnificent gardens.

07:00 p.m. - After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Gion, Kyoto’s traditional district, known for its vibrant atmosphere and Geishas.

Total distance covered: 302 km.

Scenery: Pleasant landscapes, starting with a large lake and ending at a sanctuary nestled in a cedar forest.

Notes: We’ll visit an active Zen Buddhist monastery, so we recommend wearing modest clothing. Comfortable, easy-to-remove shoes are also suggested for the visit to the monastery.

08:00 a.m. – Departure from Kyoto. Following one of Japan’s largest lakes, we’ll make a brief stop at a small lakeside shrine called Shirahige Ginra.
11:00 a.m. – Arrival at Eihei-ji, a temple-monastery founded in 1244 and a central hub of Zen Buddhism in Japan (admission included). Its surroundings, architecture, gardens, and spiritual ambiance make it a key training center for monks who practice Zazen meditation and follow a strict daily diet.

12:30 p.m. – Departure from Eihei-ji.
01:15 p.m. – Katsuyama. We’ll visit three main attractions: the Dinosaur Museum, located at Japan’s largest dinosaur fossil site, where you’ll have free time for lunch and to explore its educational exhibits, featuring over 40 skeletons of various dinosaurs. Afterwards, we’ll visit the Great Buddha of Echizen and its grand temple, along with a five-story pagoda, which we can climb to enjoy the view.

05:30 p.m. – Departure from Katsuyama. We’ll continue our journey through the tranquil natural landscapes, walking through a cedar forest to the Heisenji Hakusan Shinto Shrine, founded in 717 at the foot of a sacred mountain.
07:15 p.m. – Arrival in Kanazawa in the late afternoon.

Total distance covered: 10 km.

08:30 a.m. – Full day in Kanazawa. In the morning, we’ll include a city tour. Throughout history, Kanazawa rivaled both Kyoto and Tokyo, and during World War II, it was spared from destruction during the air raids. We’ll visit the castle area, with its impressive walls, and stroll through the historic Nagamachi district, where samurais and their families once resided. This area preserves its historical atmosphere with remaining residences, earthen walls, private entrance gates, narrow alleys, and water canals. We’ll include admission to Kenrokuen, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. We’ll finish the tour in Omicho, a traditional market brimming with life and many places to have lunch. Free afternoon.

Total distance covered: 138 km.

Scenery: Beautiful mountain landscapes, vast forests, and picturesque villages along the route.

08:00 a.m. – Departure from Kanazawa. We’ll journey through stunning mountain scenery, forests, and traditional villages as we explore the Gokayama and Shirakawago regions. These villages are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and their traditional houses with steeply sloped roofs are known as “praying hands” for their resemblance to monks´ hands joined in prayer—designed to withstand heavy winter snowfalls.
09:15 a.m. – Arrival in Ainokura, a charming small village.

10:30 a.m. – Departure from Ainokura.
11:00 a.m. – Arrival in Shirakawa-go Ogimachi, the largest village in the area, showcasing rural Japan with houses that are masterpieces of carpentry. You’ll have time to stroll around and enjoy lunch.

01:30 p.m. – Departure from Shirakawa-go.
02:15 p.m. – Arrival in Hida Folk Village Museum, a peaceful open-air museum displaying over 30 traditional houses from the Edo Period (1603-1868). These buildings were relocated from their original sites to create this museum in 1971, offering a glimpse into everyday life from the past through the tools and utensils exhibited. We’ll then have time to explore the old town, known for its wooden houses and traditional shops.

03:30 p.m. – Departure from Hida Folk Village.
03:45 p.m. – Arrival in Takayama for accommodation.

Total distance covered: 155 km.

Scenery: We’ll cross the Japanese Alps, with stunning snowy mountain landscapes for much of the year.

08:00 a.m. – Departure from Takayama.
08:30 a.m. – Hida Furukawa. We’ll stroll through the charming old town. This city’s festival has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, known for its large drums and beautifully decorated floats. We’ll include admission to the museum, which showcases the festival’s floats, costumes, and drums.

10:30 a.m. – Departure from Hida Furukawa.
12:45 p.m. – We’ll continue our journey, crossing the Japanese Alps. Upon arrival in Matsumoto, we’ll visit the city’s impressive castle, known as the "Crow Castle" due to its black color, dating back to the 16th century. Afterward, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and explore the town.

05:00 p.m. – Departure from Matsumoto.
08:30 p.m. – Nagano.

Total distance covered: 160 km.

Scenery: Today, our journey will take us through the stunning Japanese Alps, showcasing breathtaking mountain landscapes.

Note: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the Monkey Park.

Early in the morning, in Nagano, we’ll visit the Zenkoji Temple, a significant pilgrimage site housing the first Buddhist image brought to Japan. Guests will have the unique opportunity to participate in the Gomakuyo ceremony, believed to bring good luck.

10:30 a.m. - Departure from Nagano. We’ll travel through the high mountains.
11:30 a.m. - Monkey Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a delightful walk through lush forests with rivers and thermal springs, home to colonies of Japanese monkeys that bathe in the natural hot springs. Lunch will be included.

01:45 p.m. - Departure from the park. Our journey will continue through spectacular mountain scenery, reaching altitudes of up to 2,172 meters and passing by semi-active volcanoes.
03:00 p.m. - Kusatsu. This charming spa city features a vibrant main square and a beautiful city park with outdoor onsen. Enjoy some time to stroll and immerse yourself in the relaxing atmosphere.

05:45 p.m. - Departure from Kusatsu.
07:15 p.m. - Ikaho. Arrival in this picturesque spa town, known for its historic center with charming staircase streets. We’ll stay at a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese-style hotel, where you can continue enjoying the soothing baths. A traditional Japanese dinner will be included.

Notes:
-During the autumn, the movement of the monkeys can be unpredictable due to the availability of fruit in the mountains. If the macaques do not descend to the park, it may be closed.
-Visits to Kusatsu may be canceled from November to April due to weather conditions.
-On certain dates, accommodation may be provided in nearby towns such as Takasaki or Maebashi, in a Western-style hotel.

Total distance covered: 400 km.

07:45 a.m. - Departure from Ikaho Onsen.
10:00 a.m. - Nikko. This extraordinary town is renowned for its rich history and stunning landmarks. We’ll visit the awe-inspiring Nikko Toshogu Shrine, celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship, and the Hall of the Crying Dragon, known for its fascinating acoustics. Our visit will also include the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, surrounded by tranquil natural beauty. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues line the riverside path. Free time will be provided for lunch and to explore the town center.

03:30 p.m. - Departure from Nikko.
07:45 p.m. - Sendai. Arrival in this vibrant, modern city with over one million inhabitants. Take the evening to explore Sendai’s bustling center and enjoy dinner in one of its lively districts.

Total distance covered: 217 km.

Scenery: Forests, mountains, and the breathtaking scenery of the Thousand Islands area.

08:00 a.m. - Departure for the marvelous city of Matsushima.
08:30 a.m. - Matsushima. Arrival in this picturesque city on the "Thousand Islands" Bay in the Pacific Ocean, considered one of the most beautiful locations in Japan. We’ll visit a magnificent tea house overlooking the sea, where we’ll enjoy a cup of traditional tea as our guide shares insights about the city. Afterward, we’ll embark on a 50-minute cruise (included).

11:00 a.m. - Departure. Lunch will be included.
02:00 p.m. - Hiraizumi. We’ll visit its historic temples, starting with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Takkoku no Iwaya, carved into the rock in 801. We’ll then explore the magnificent Buddhist temples of Chusonji and enjoy a peaceful moment in the gardens of Motsuji Temple, where passengers can participate in a Zen ceremony (admission included).

05:15 p.m. - Departure for Morioka.
06:45 p.m. - Morioka. Arrival in the pleasant capital of Iwate Province. We’ll check into our hotel and have free time to explore the city.

Total distance covered: 197 km.

Note: We recommend bringing warm clothing to enjoy the ferry´s open deck.

07:30 a.m. - Departure. We’ll travel north through a region of beautiful landscapes.
09:30 a.m. - Hirosaki. Arrival in this former cultural capital during the Edo period. We’ll visit its 17th-century castle, set within a stunning park where more than 2,500 cherry trees bloom in the spring.

10:30 a.m. - Departure from Hirosaki.
11:40 a.m. - Aomori. Arrival in the provincial capital on Mutsu Bay. We’ll visit the Nebuta Museum to learn about Japan’s vibrant festival traditions, reminiscent of carnivals, featuring beautifully painted and illuminated floats. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.

Afterward, we’ll board a ferry to cross to Hokkaido Island. The ferry is scheduled to depart at 02:20 p.m. Enjoy a scenic journey of just over three and a half hours.

06:00 p.m. - Hakodate. Free time to explore the charming pedestrian-friendly historic center, where we can admire the city´s cultural influences, including the Russian Orthodox Church and various Christian churches.

Total distance covered: 338 km.
Scenery: Beautiful landscapes and stunning volcanic areas.
Note: We recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking in Hell Valley.

In the morning, we’ll visit the impressive and bustling fish market. We’ll also go up Goryokaku Tower, where we’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and appreciate the star-shaped layout of Hakodate’s historic fortress. You’ll have free time to explore the castle grounds before we continue our journey.

11:00 a.m. - Departure.
11:45 a.m. - Onuma. Free time to explore this magnificent tourist area, known for its countless small islands. You can take a boat ride or walk across the bridges connecting the islands. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.

01:45 p.m. - We’ll continue our journey along the coastline.
04:15 p.m. - Noboribetsu. We’ll visit this spectacular volcanic area, walking among the steaming fumaroles of Jigokudani (Hell Valley), admiring the boiling waters of Lake Oyunuma, and following the trail along the hot-water river to a spot where you can enjoy a relaxing foot bath.

06:30 p.m. - Departure.
08:15 p.m. - Sapporo. Arrival in the beautiful capital of northern Japan at the end of the day.

Total distance covered: 120 km.

08:30 a.m. - We’ll start the morning with a city tour of Sapporo, making brief photo stops at the Clock Tower and Odori Park Avenue, dominated by the towering TV Tower. We’ll then spend an hour exploring the beautiful Hokkaido Jingu Shinto Shrine, where we’ll take part in a Kito, a traditional ceremonial prayer to give thanks for our journey.

11:00 a.m. - Just outside Sapporo, we’ll visit the Hill of Buddha, a striking example of modern architecture inaugurated in 2015. This lavender-covered hill houses a massive Buddha statue. The complex also features replicas of the Moai statues from Easter Island.

12:15 p.m. - We’ll continue to Otaru.

01:00 p.m. - Otaru. Arrival in this charming town with a distinctly European feel, known for its lively commercial streets, historic canal, and small museums. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.

03:30 p.m. - Return to Sapporo, arriving at 04:30 p.m. The rest of the afternoon will be free to explore the city at your own pace.

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.