Welcome to China! Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. We arrive in Shanghai, a cosmopolitan city of over 15 million residents, home to China’s largest commercial port and its most international metropolis.

08:30 a.m. - This morning, we’ll explore the highlights of this fascinating city.
Our tour will begin in Pudong, Shanghai’s striking financial district, located across the Huangpu River. We’ll admire its futuristic skyline, including the iconic Pearl Tower, and take a stroll along the elevated walkways, offering breathtaking views of the modern skyscrapers.
Next, we’ll board a local ferry to cross the river, allowing us to take in Shanghai’s impressive cityscape from the water while observing daily life along the bustling waterfront.
Upon arrival, we’ll explore the Bund, home to a collection of grand 19th-century European-style buildings, a striking contrast to the modern skyline of Pudong.
Our tour will continue in Shanghai’s Old City, where we’ll visit the Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we’ll also experience a traditional tea ceremony, an integral part of Chinese culture.
We’ll then pass through Xintiandi, one of the city’s most fashionable districts, known for its blend of historical charm and modern elegance.
Lunch will be included.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Tianzifang, a former residential area famous for its narrow, labyrinth-like streets, lined with artisanal shops, trendy boutiques, and art galleries.
We’ll conclude our tour with a final stroll along the Bund, appreciating its historical architecture and the European influence on the city’s past.
06:30 p.m. - Our tour will come to an end. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center (if so, return to the hotel will be at your own expense. We recommend carrying the hotel’s address written in Chinese to show the taxi driver).

Distance traveled by high-speed train: 1,020 km
Scenery: A diverse landscape of plains, mountains, rice paddies, and lush greenery, all enjoyed from the comfort of our high-speed train.
Note: Train schedules are subject to change. Each passenger must carry their own luggage. Do not pack sprays or aerosols larger than 100ml in your suitcase, as they may be confiscated at the security checkpoint.
05:30 a.m. - Departure from the hotel. A picnic-style breakfast will be provided. Transfer to the railway station.
07:17 a.m. - We’ll board one of China’s high-speed trains for an exciting journey across the country. Sit back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as we pass through vast plains, terraced rice fields, and mountainous landscapes.
01:10 p.m. - Luoyang – Longmen. Arrival. Lunch will be included.
After lunch, we’ll visit the awe-inspiring Longmen Caves, an extraordinary collection of Buddhist carvings stretching over a kilometer along the rocky cliffs of the Yi River. With more than 100,000 Buddha statues etched into the rock, this UNESCO-listed site is one of China’s most remarkable cultural treasures. We’ll explore the most impressive caves on foot and then take a boat ride for a unique perspective from the water.
Note: The boat ride may be canceled due to adverse weather conditions or river flooding.
05:30 p.m. - Departure from Longmen.
06:15 p.m. - Luoyang. Arrival and transfer to the Old Town, where we’ll pass through its impressive city walls and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of its illuminated streets. This experience offers a glimpse into the daily life of a historic provincial capital in inland China.
Return to the hotel. Overnight stay in Luoyang.

Total distance covered: 410 km
Scenery: Pleasant landscapes along the route.
07:20 a.m. - Departure from the hotel.
08:10 a.m. - White Horse Buddhist Monastery. Arrival at this vast and historically significant monastery, a major center for Buddhist study and pilgrimage, welcoming practitioners from around the world.
09:30 a.m. - Departure from the monastery.
11:30 a.m. - Sanmenxia. Arrival in this historic city, located along the Yellow River. We’ll visit the Baolun Temple, home to an impressive high pagoda, and then explore the renowned Guo State Museum, considered one of the finest in China. Here, we’ll see the remarkable funeral chariots of the ancient Guo State, offering a fascinating glimpse into early Chinese civilization.
Lunch will be included.
02:30 p.m. - Departure from Sanmenxia. As we continue eastward, we’ll pass by the majestic Mount Hua, one of China’s five sacred mountains, revered for its dramatic peaks and spiritual significance.
06:30 p.m. - Xian. Arrival in this legendary city, once the starting point of the Silk Road and home to an extraordinary historical and cultural heritage. Overnight stay in Xian.

Total distance covered: 105 km
Important Note: A passport is required for entry to the Terracotta Army Museum.
08:00 a.m. - We’ll start the day with a visit to the Terracotta Army, one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries in the world. This vast underground army, with thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, was created to protect the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Located less than an hour from downtown Xian, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Chinese history.
Free time for lunch.
01:50 p.m. - Departure from the Terracotta Army Museum.
02:50 p.m. - Xian. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, an elegant Buddhist structure dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
Next, we’ll explore the walled city center, walking through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where centuries of cultural and religious influences have shaped the city’s identity. We’ll enter the Great Mosque of Xian, a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture.
Our tour will also include entrance to the Drum Tower, where we’ll enjoy a short performance of traditional Chinese percussion instruments.
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to continue exploring the bustling historic center at your own pace.
06:30 p.m. - End of our visit. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center to explore further on your own.

Total distance covered: 530 km (365 km on the high-speed train)
Scenery: Mountainous areas with stunning landscapes visible from the train.
Note: Train schedules are subject to change. Each passenger must carry their own luggage during the train journey.
06:45 a.m. - Departure from the hotel. Transfer to the train station.
08:08 a.m. - Departure from Xian on a high-speed train. In less than three hours, we’ll arrive in Linfeng, enjoying breathtaking views along the way.
11:30 a.m. - Mansion of the Wang Clan. Arrival at this grand residence, built between the 17th and 19th centuries by a wealthy and influential family. This architectural masterpiece showcases intricate courtyards, elaborate carvings, and the opulence of ancient Chinese nobility.
Lunch will be included.
01:00 p.m. - Departure from the Mansion of the Wang Clan.
03:00 p.m. - Pingyao. Arrival in China’s best-preserved historical city, home to over 4,000 ancient buildings and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its charming streets feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.
Our visit includes an all-access pass to explore the city´s highlights, including its temples, mansions, and ancient city walls.

Total distance covered: 330 km
Scenery: A changing landscape of green fields, small towns, dense forests, and mountains as we approach Wutai Mountain.
Note: Wutai Mountain is a sacred pilgrimage site. We kindly ask that you dress appropriately and show the utmost respect for the believers who travel here.
08:30 a.m. - Departure from Pingyao. We’ll begin the entry procedures for the Wutai Mountain National Park, a breathtaking area filled with magnificent landscapes and a succession of historic monasteries. This journey will take us to one of the most spiritually significant places in China.
01:00 p.m. - Wutai Mountain. Nestled among lush green mountains and forests, this revered site is a major center of Lamaism Buddhism. With more than 40 ancient monasteries—and many more built in recent years—Wutai Mountain is home to a large community of monks dedicated to spiritual practice.
We’ll visit the Nanshan Temple with our guide, then enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. You may choose to seek out less-visited temples, where you can respectfully observe the monks in their daily rituals.
05:30 p.m. - Transfer to our hotel, located outside the sacred precinct, near the entrance to the National Park.
06:00 p.m. - Arrival at the hotel. Dinner included.

Total distance covered: 440 km.

Scenery: Fascinating mountainous landscapes with few inhabitants, offering a sense of remoteness and serenity.
Notes: Wear sturdy footwear for walking on the Great Wall and climbing the Hanging Temple. The ascent to the temple is not recommended for those with vertigo, claustrophobia, or health issues.
07:30 a.m. - Departure from Wutai.
10:30 a.m. - Yanmen Pass. Arrival at this historic mountain pass near the Mongolian border. Here, we’ll explore a less-visited section of the Great Wall, where we can walk at a relaxed pace, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere away from large crowds.
12:15 p.m. - Departure from Yanmen Pass.
01:30 p.m. - Yingxian. Arrival in this charming and picturesque village. Lunch will be included.
While here, we’ll admire the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, one of the oldest and tallest wooden pagodas in China, an outstanding example of ancient Chinese engineering.
02:45 p.m. - Departure from Yingxian.
04:00 p.m. - Hanging Temple. Built dramatically into the side of a towering cliff, this architectural marvel seems to defy gravity. The temple, which combines elements of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, is one of China’s most breathtaking religious sites.
Note: The climb to the temple involves steep steps and high walkways; please assess your comfort level before ascending.
05:30 p.m. - Departure from Hanging Temple.
07:00 p.m. - Datong. Arrival in this historic city. From the coach, we’ll admire its imposing city walls and the beautifully restored historic center, which reflects Datong’s rich past as a key stop along ancient trade routes.

Total distance covered: 390 km.

08:00 a.m. - Departure from Datong.
08:30 a.m. - Yungang Caves. Arrival at China’s most impressive cave art complex, featuring 252 caves and over 51,000 Buddha statues, intricately carved in the 5th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases stunning Buddhist sculptures and ancient artistry.
10:15 a.m. - Departure from Yungang Caves. We´ll begin our journey toward Beijing, stopping en route at a service area for lunch (not included).
02:00 p.m. - Jiming Post. Arrival in this small, traditional Chinese town, which preserves the charm of provincial life. Originally built as a rest station for imperial couriers, Jiming Post is surrounded by powerful defensive walls. Walking through its streets, we’ll get a glimpse of a different China—rural, historic, and deeply rooted in tradition.
03:30 p.m. - Departure from Jiming Post. From here, we have approximately 100 km before reaching the vast metropolis of Beijing.
06:30 p.m. - Beijing. Arrival in the capital of China.

07:30 a.m. - An exciting day awaits us as we explore the highlights of China’s capital. We’ll enjoy a full-day guided tour, starting with a walk through the immense Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world. From here, we’ll admire the Great National Theater, also known as the Beijing Opera House.
Next, we’ll visit the majestic Forbidden City, the most impressive architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. We’ll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of Beijing’s best-preserved imperial gardens. Climbing to the top of the hill, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting.
Lunch will be included.
In the afternoon, we’ll experience local life with a tricycle ride through the traditional Hutong neighborhoods, where we can observe daily life, visit charming shops, and step inside a Siheyuan, a traditional courtyard house.
We’ll then conclude our tour with a visit to the stunning Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its exquisite gardens and tranquil lakes.
06:30 p.m. - Tour ends. You may return to the hotel by bus or choose to stay in the city center (in which case, the return to the hotel will be at your own expense. We recommend carrying the hotel’s address written in Chinese to show the taxi driver).
Note: Due to heritage conservation measures and enhanced visitor safety, the governing body of the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced daily visitor capacity. As a result, we cannot guarantee access to this site. If the visit is not possible, it will be replaced with a tour of the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both iconic landmarks in Chinese history and culture.

Total distance covered: 190 km.

Scenery: Expansive urban landscapes as we leave Beijing, followed by lush green mountains surrounding the Great Wall.
Note: Due to the high number of visitors at the Great Wall, it may be advisable to walk part of the way to avoid delays on the funicular ascent.
07:30 a.m. - Departure from Beijing. Today, we’ll embark on an unforgettable excursion to the Great Wall.
09:30 a.m. - Great Wall of China (Mutianyu section). We’ll arrive at this awe-inspiring architectural marvel, whose history spans over 2,000 years. Our visit includes a cable car ride up and down to one of the most scenic sections of the wall. You’ll have free time to explore, enjoy the commercial area, visit the Exhibition Center, and have lunch at your leisure.
Returning to Beijing, we’ll make a stop at the 798 Art District, a vibrant hub of contemporary art housed in a former military factory.
Later, we’ll visit the Temple of Heaven, one of China’s most important sacred complexes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To unwind after an exciting day, we’ll take part in a relaxing Tai Chi class and enjoy a soothing foot massage.
We’ll bid farewell to Beijing with a traditional Peking duck dinner (included).
09:00 p.m. - Return to the hotel.

After breakfast, we’ll provide a transfer to the airport for your flight to Seoul.
Welcome to Korea! Upon arrival, you´ll be taken to your hotel, where you´ll meet the guide.
06:00 p.m. – In the evening, we’ll start exploring this fascinating country. With our guide, we’ll take the modern and efficient subway, which you’ll learn how to use, and head to City Hall, a striking building shaped like a tsunami. Across from City Hall, we’ll see the Deoksugung Palace, beautifully lit at night, showcasing Korea´s blend of tradition and modernity. From there, we’ll walk to Myeongdong neighborhood, the liveliest and largest shopping district in the country, whose name means “bright tunnel.” Dinner will be included at a local restaurant.
08:30 p.m. – Return to the hotel with the guide.

08:30 a.m. – Today, we’ll include a comprehensive five-hour tour of Seoul. We’ll explore Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a complex of palaces set within a large park. Afterward, we’ll stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic neighborhood with traditional small homes. Next, we’ll visit the War Memorial, an impressive museum that illustrates the conflicts experienced in Korea throughout its history, especially the Korean War, in which soldiers from numerous countries participated with the United Nations.
01:00 p.m. – Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.
02:00 p.m. – We’ll continue to the Gangnam District, one of the busiest areas in the city, home to numerous shopping and entertainment centers. Finally, we’ll stop at Lotte World Tower, an impressive 550-meter-tall building, where you’ll have free time to either go up the tower (ticket not included) or stroll through its park or luxury shopping malls.
04:30 p.m. – Return to the hotel and free time.

Total distance covered: 227 km.
Scenery: Pleasant landscapes, rolling hills, and vast cultivated areas.
08:00 a.m. – Today, we’ll visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, an impressive palace with 600 years of history, where we’ll witness the changing of the guard ceremony, if it takes place.
10:00 a.m. – We’ll depart from Seoul and head south through Korea.
11:00 a.m. – Arrival in Suwon, the former capital of Korea, known for its impressive UNESCO World Heritage walls.
12:15 p.m. – Before leaving the city, we’ll take a scenic drive along the city walls and their fortifications, and visit Hwaseong Haenggung, the summer palace.
01:30 p.m. – Lunch will be included.
02:30 p.m. – Departure for Jeonju.
04:30 p.m. – Arrival in Jeonju. With our guide, we’ll explore the fascinating historic center (Hanok Village), filled with little houses, traditional shops, and art galleries. After the tour, you’ll have free time.

Total distance covered: 415 km.
Scenery: We’ll travel through high mountains, with beautiful landscapes around Haeinsa in the National Park.
Note: We recommend wearing comfortable shoes for the walk to Haeinsa Temple.
08:30 a.m. - Departure from Seoul.
09:40 a.m. - Sunchang Gochujang Village. Nestled at the foot of Mount Amisan, where you’ll find traditional hanok houses and courtyards filled with clay jars called hang-a-ri, this town is home to master artisans who make gochujang (Korean chili paste) using traditional methods. We’ll get a chance to see how this iconic sauce is made.
10:20 a.m. - Departure from Sunchang Gochujang Village.
10:40 a.m. - Damyang. We’ll explore the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, with scenic trails that are perfect for peaceful walks and meditation. You’ll also find various products made from bamboo, which are honored and studied in centers such as the Bamboo Museum. Lunch will be included, featuring a local dish of rice steamed inside a bamboo stalk.
01:50 p.m. - Departure from Damyang.
04:00 p.m. - Arrival at Haeinsa. Surrounded by breathtaking forested mountains, we’ll visit one of the country’s most important Buddhist temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 802, it houses the Tripitaka, the most comprehensive collection of Buddhist scriptures, carved on 80,000 wooden blocks.
05:00 p.m. - Departure from Haeinsa.
07:45 p.m. - Busan. We’ll arrive in Korea’s second-largest city, famous for its lively atmosphere. Overnight stay.

Note: The journey from Busan to Shimonoseki is planned as an overnight ferry crossing, but due to high demand and limited cabin availability, the trip may be as follows:
1. High-speed ferry from Busan to Fukuoka (approximately three hours).
2. Flight from Busan to Fukuoka (approximately one hour).
08:30 a.m. - We’ll depart from Busan to visit Haedong Yonggung, a 14th-century Buddhist temple by the sea. After returning to Busan, we’ll include a city tour, starting with the United Nations Memorial, home to a cemetery where people from numerous countries are buried. Next, we’ll explore the Jagalchi Fish Market, the country’s largest fish market, located near Nampo Port. Lunch will be included. After, we’ll take a walk to Yongdusan Park, home to a towering 120-meter pagoda.
04:00/04:30 p.m. - Transfer to the port for check-in procedures (check-in deadline is 05:30 p.m.). Be sure to have your passport handy and remove all luggage from the bus. The ferry is scheduled to depart at 09:00 p.m. We’ll spend the night aboard the ferry, crossing the Sea of Japan. Accommodation will be in double cabins with private bathrooms. Some cabins may be in the traditional Japanese tatami style, offering a chance to experience local culture.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If one of the alternative routes is taken (high-speed ferry crossing or flight from Busan to Fukuoka), the visit to Haedong Yonggung Temple will take place the previous afternoon (Thursday).
For this day, the itinerary will be as follows:
08:30 a.m. - We’ll include a city tour, starting with the United Nations Memorial, where people from numerous countries are buried. Afterward, we’ll visit the Jagalchi Fish Market, the country’s largest fish market located near Nampo Port, and take a stroll to Yongdusan Park to see its towering 120-meter pagoda. Lunch will be included.
02:00 p.m. - Departure for the port to board the JR Beetle Ferry to Japan or transfer to the airport for a flight from Busan to Fukuoka.
06:30/07:00 p.m. - Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, we’ll provide a transfer to the hotel. Enjoy some free time in Fukuoka, the largest city on Kyushu Island.

Total distance covered: 190 km.
07:45 a.m. – Arrival at Shimonoseki Port for the border crossing (breakfast not included). Welcome to Japan!
11:30 a.m. – Iwakuni. We’ll visit the beautiful and historic Kintai-Kyo Bridge.
12:15 p.m. – We’ll take a ferry to Miyajima, the island known as the place “where gods and humans coexist.” It is home to the Itsukushima Shrine, dedicated to the guardian of the seas and partially built over the water. There will be time to explore the temple, stroll through the charming town center, and enjoy lunch.
04:00 p.m. – Departure from Miyajima. We’ll embark and continue our route.
04:45 p.m. – Hiroshima - the city sadly known for the atomic bombing of 1945, which completely devastated the area. We’ll walk through the Peace Memorial, see the atomic bomb dome, and visit the impressive Peace Museum.
Dinner will be included.
Note: If the number of travelers is nine or fewer, the journey from Shimonoseki (or Fukuoka) to Hiroshima may be taken by high-speed train. In this case, the stop in Iwakuni will be skipped (you’ll be informed on your travel voucher), and the visit will start in Hiroshima before heading to Miyajima.

Total distance covered: This stage will be completed by ferry, covering approximately 50 km.
Scenery: Fascinating views onboard as we pass by a multitude of islands.
Note: We recommend enjoying the journey from the deck; bring warm clothing.
Today, we’ll board a ferry to Shikoku Island, a pleasant journey of just over two and a half hours that offers insight into Japan, a nation composed of many islands. If there are no schedule changes, our ferry will depart at 09:20 a.m. (departure from the hotel at 08:00 a.m.).
12:00 p.m. – Matsuyama – arrival. We’ll take a cable car or chairlift to visit its impressive castle. Afterward, we’ll visit Ishiteji, a stunning Buddhist temple and important pilgrimage site. Lunch will be included.
Later in the afternoon, we’ll include admission to Dogo Onsen, a traditional Japanese bathhouse built in the 19th century.
Note: We highly recommend experiencing Japan’s Onsen culture. There are specific customs that will be explained to you, such as gender-separated baths and the requirement to thoroughly clean yourself before entering the hot water naked. Please be aware that some Onsen facilities may deny entry to individuals with tattoos.

Total distance covered: 345 km
Scenery: Pleasant mountainous landscapes in some areas. Passage over large suspension bridges across the sea.
Note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.
07:30 a.m. – Departure from Matsuyama.
10:00 a.m. – Kotohira. We’ll visit a Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors, a pilgrimage site located on Mount Zozu, accessible by climbing 785 steps. For those who prefer not to climb, the base of the mountain offers a lively tourist area and a small sake museum (Japan’s traditional distilled beverage).
12:00 p.m. – Departure from Kotohira.
01:00 p.m. – Takamatsu. We’ll visit Ritsurin, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.
03:00 p.m. – Departure from Takamatsu.
04:15 p.m. – Naruto. We’ll stop at an impressive bridge that crosses the sea. Here, we’ll explore its fascinating construction and walk on its glass floor to admire the stunning sea whirlpools (visible depending on the schedule and tides) from 45 meters above.
05:15 p.m. – Departure from Naruto. Enjoy beautiful scenery as we cross large suspension bridges.
07:00 p.m. – Kobe. A modern city by the sea, where you’ll have the chance to stroll through its lively downtown area.

Total distance covered: 140 km.
After breakfast, we’ll visit the Earthquake Memorial Museum, a site dedicated to remembering the tragic earthquake that struck the city in 1995 and showcasing its remarkable reconstruction.
10:30 a.m. - Departure from Kobe and continuation toward Osaka.
11:15 a.m. – Osaka, Japan´s second-largest city. We’ll make a brief technical stop in Osaka only if required for the start or end of a tour for any passenger.
12:00 p.m. - Departure from the city toward the sacred mountain of Koya, the most important center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. We’ll stop for lunch along the way. This magical pilgrimage site is home to 120 temples and monasteries. We’ll visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a deeply spiritual place and vast cemetery set in nature, with over 200,000 graves. We’ll also visit the Kongobuji Temple, built in 1593.
We will spend the night in a Buddhist monastery. The monks will guide us through a Zen meditation practice (Ajikan). Dinner will be included (vegetarian meal). If you wish, you can attend the early morning religious ceremony at the temple.
Notes:
-On certain dates, the visit to the Earthquake Museum may be replaced by a visit to the Sake Museum or a trip up Kobe Tower.
-Staying at the monastery is considered a highly valuable experience. The rooms are simple, without private bathrooms, and follow traditional Japanese style with tatami mats. Bathrooms are shared.
-We cannot guarantee the meditation practice during peak tourist dates. Since accommodation capacity in the temples on Mount Koya is limited, in some cases, we may accommodate groups in nearby hotels (with half board included).

Total distance covered: 130 km.
We’ll begin the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple.
07:30 a.m. - Departure for Kyoto.
10:00 a.m. - Kyoto. We’ll spend the entire day exploring this historic city, which served as Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and was the seat of the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to retain its incredible artistic and cultural heritage. The famous Kyoto Protocol on greenhouse gas emissions was signed here in 1997.
Our tour will cover some of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, including the breathtaking Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, the Imperial Palace, and the Kinkakuji Temple—commonly known as the "Golden Pavilion"—surrounded by its stunning gardens.
07:00 p.m. - In the evening, a transfer to Gion will be included. This lively, traditional district is renowned for its Geisha culture and offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s historic charm. Enjoy free time to explore. The return to the hotel will not be accompanied; we recommend taking a taxi, and the guide will provide instructions on how to do so.
Note: If you have already visited Kyoto as part of your circuit, our guide will offer personalized advice and information for exploring other parts of the city on your own.

Total distance covered: 320 km.
Scenery: Beautiful countryside views.
08:00 a.m. - Departure from Kyoto. We’ll set out for Tsumago, passing through picturesque rural landscapes.
11:15 a.m. - Tsumago. This charming village, renowned for its traditional wooden houses, is one of the most beautiful places in Japan. You’ll have free time to explore, and lunch will be included at a local restaurant.
01:30 p.m. - Departure from Tsumago.
02:45 p.m. - Matsumoto. Arrival in this vibrant city, where we’ll visit the stunning 16th-century castle, known as the “The Crow.” Afterward, enjoy free time to discover this bustling tourist hub.
06:00 p.m. - Departure from Matsumoto.
07:15 p.m. - Nagano.
Note: On some tours, we may not stay overnight in Nagano but instead in the town of Matsumoto.

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: 310 km.
07:45 a.m. - Departure from Ikaho Onsen.
10:00 a.m. - Nikko. This enchanting town is home to remarkable cultural and historical treasures. We’ll visit the magnificent Nikko Toshogu Shrine, famous for its elaborate architecture, and the Hall of the Crying Dragon, known for its acoustic marvels. Next, we’ll explore the peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, nestled in a serene setting. Later, you can enjoy a tranquil walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, a riverside path guarded by hundreds of Jizo statues. You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and explore the city center.
03:30 p.m. - Departure to Tokyo.
06:30 p.m. - Tokyo.

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.

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