Japan's Cherry Blossom Route
April 9-20, 2024
ONLY 1 ROOM LEFT!
Spend 12 days exploring a different side of Japan including majestic castles, traditional Japanese villages, and a local cherry blossom festival starting at $4475 per person, double occupancy, land only
Double occupancy: $4475 per person for a group of 15
Price may vary based on the number of travelers
Group Maximum: 16
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Single occupancy price upon request
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ITINERARY
Day One - April 9, 2024
Arrive in Tokyo
Arrive at Narita Airport and transfer to the Shibuya Excel Tokyu Hotel in Tokyo.
Day Two - April 10, 2024
Tokyo Sightseeing
Take a half day tour of Tokyo, visiting some of the city's most important and beautiful sights including the Meiji Shrine and its gardens, the fashionable Harajuku neighborhood right next door, Asakusa, and more. The rest of the day will be free for you to explore Tokyo on your own.
Day Three - April 11, 2024
Bullet train to Nagoya
In the morning, take the bullet train from Tokyo Station to Nagoya. Check into the Mitsui Garden Premier Hotel before heading off to visit Nagoya Castle and the Tokugawa Art Museum.
Day Four - April 12, 2024
Gujo Hachiman & the Nagara River Railway
Head to Mina-Ota to take the Nagara River Railway deep into the heart of Gifu prefecture, where old Japan still exists in these mountain villages. Enjoy lunch in Hokuno before driving to Gujo Hachiman, which was once known for its castle and is now known as the center of Japan's ubiquitous plastic food replicas. After your tour, return to Nagoya.
Day Five - April 13, 2024
Takayama's Spring Festival
Heavy Walking Day
Head to Takayama for the town's Spring Festival, considered one of the most beautiful festivals in all of Japan. Watch the elaborate floats as the travel down the streets and entertain the festival goers with special marionette performances. In between festival events, explore Takayama's historical center and taste local delicacies.
Day Six - April 14, 2024
Takayama's Spring Festival
Heavy Walking Day
Continue to explore Takayama and enjoy the Spring Festival with the group.
Day Seven - April 15, 2024
Shirakawago
Drive to Kanazawa and stop along the way in the traditional village of Shirakawa-go, known for its distinctive farmhouses with steep angled roofs. Overnight in Kanazawa.
Day Eight - April 16, 2024
Kanazawa
Take a tour of Kanazawa with visits to the famous Kenrokuen gardens, where we'll enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. From there wander through the Higashi Chaya district to Omichi Market, Kanazawa's biggest market. Take a tour of the Nomura Samurai House to see how samurai and their families lived up until the 1800s.
Day Nine - April 17, 2024
Toyama
Drive to Toyama and enjoy a cruise on Toyama Bay. The bay is home to unique marine life, including the phosphorescent firefly squid. In the afternoon, check into the Yamanoha Ryokan to enjoy the onsen baths and a traditional kaiseki dinner.
Day Ten - April 18, 2024
Kurobe Gorge
Head to the Kurobe Gorge, which is only accessible by train. Depending on the weather, you can sit in open air cars and watch the scenery go by. At the end of the line there is a short hiking trail and a foot bath where you can sit and soak your feet after you explore the gorge.
Day Eleven - April 19, 2024
Bullet train to Tokyo
Take a bullet train back to Tokyo. Check into the Shibuya Excel Tokyu Hotel and use the rest of the day to explore Tokyo.
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Those joining our Kyoto Extension will head to Kyoto via Kanazawa.
Day Twelve - April 20, 2024
Fly home
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
ACTIVE GROUP REQUIREMENTS:
This trip is designed for active travelers. You will need to be able to walk several miles a day (with breaks). If you have mobility issues and still want to join the group, please contact daniella@escapesltd.com to see if we can make accommodations for you.
Small group COVID-19 Vaccination
& Masking Requirements
Due to the increased potential for the spread of COVID-19 within a small group, we require all travelers who sign up for our small group trips to be fully vaccinated and boosted with the most recent booster. we recommend getting your booster about one month before departure.
We also require that all groups wear masks indoors, including on the tour bus and on public transportation, unless they are eating or in the privacy of their own rooms.
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EXCLUSIONS
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Luggage transfer from Toyama to Tokyo (available upon request)
Travel insurance
Gratuities for guides, drivers, waitstaff, bellhops, etc.
Services not listed on the itinerary
Optional Tours
International Flights
KYOTO EXTENSION
Double occupancy: $1567
Single occupancy :$1914
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Those who sign up for the Kyoto Extension will receive a revised price for the main tour above as some services included in the extension were already included in the main tour.
Pricing based on 2 travelers.
Price may decrease with additional sign-ups.
Day One - April 19, 2024
Toyama to Kyoto
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Toyama Station with the group.
While the group heads back to Tokyo, you will take the train to Kyoto via Kanazawa (you will need to change trains in Kanazawa).
Upon arrival in Kyoto, a guide will meet you and transfer you to the Kyoto Century Hotel.
Day Two - April 20, 2024
Kyoto Sightseeing
Breakfast at the hotel. Take a full day tour through Kyoto including visits to Nishiki Market, the Golden Pavilion, Ryoanji Temple, and the bamboo groves of Arashiyama.
Day Three - April 21, 2024
Kyoto Sightseeing
Breakfast at the hotel. Continue your exploration of Kyoto on a full day guided tour with stops at Fushimi Inari Shrine (famous for its appearance in Memoirs of a Geisha), Sanju Sangendo Temple, Kiyomizu Shrine, the historical Ninenzaka and Sannenzka streets, and the Gion district.
Day Four - April 22, 2024
Return to Tokyo
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer on your own to Kyoto Station and take the bullet train to Tokyo. From there a driver will meet you and transfer you to the Shibuya Excel Tokyu Hotel.
Day Five - April 23, 2024
Return Home
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the hotel