Get Lost in the Pastel Dreams of Japan with New Friends!

April 24, 2025 – May 4, 2025
11 days / 10 nights

Overall Trip Highlights

• Scenic Train Journeys: Experience the thrill of Japan’s bullet trains, passing through breathtaking landscapes.
• Traditional Tea Ceremony: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture, wearing kimonos and enjoying matcha tea.
• Kyoto’s Historic Gems: Visit iconic temples like the Golden Pavilion and explore the city’s timeless charm.
• Hiroshima Peace Park: Reflect on history at the Peace Memorial and A-bomb Dome.
• Geisha Evening in Kanazawa: A private encounter with a Geisha, learning about their traditional arts.
• UNESCO Village Tour: Discover the charming thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Wander through towering bamboo groves in this magical Kyoto district.
• Vibrant Ginza Shopping: Explore Tokyo’s bustling shopping district, finding unique Japanese treasures.
• Miyajima Island & Floating Shrine: Take a serene ferry ride to the stunning Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its “floating” torii gate.
• Sunset Cruise in Tokyo Bay: Enjoy a relaxing evening cruise, soaking in views of the Tokyo skyline as the sun sets.

Don’t just tour Japan, Experience Japan

Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’. 

Day One: Arrival in Tokyo

Welcome to your exciting journey through Japan! After landing at either Narita or Haneda Airport, you’ll head to your hotel in the Ginza District, known for its luxury shopping and blend of tradition and modernity. In the evening, connect with fellow travelers during a welcome dinner in Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s liveliest areas, famous for its neon lights and vibrant energy.

Highlights

• Arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport: Enjoy the first glimpse of Tokyo’s sprawling cityscape.
• Hotel in Ginza District: Settle into your centrally located accommodation in Tokyo’s upscale shopping and entertainment area.
• Welcome Dinner in Shibuya: Share a meal with the group in this iconic neighborhood, home to the famous Shibuya Crossing.

Fun Fact: Shibuya Crossing is the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world, where thousands cross with each light change!

Day Two: The Emperor’s Palace

Start the day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on an immersive full-day guided tour of Tokyo. Explore the historical Imperial Palace, the home of Japan’s emperors, set in stunning gardens and moats. Next, head to the Nihonbashi District, Tokyo’s business hub since the Edo period, where you’ll stroll its historic bridge and enjoy lunch at a bustling local market. In the afternoon, visit Asakusa Temple, famous for bringing good luck, and browse the vibrant Nakamise Street for unique souvenirs and traditional confections.

Highlights

• Imperial Palace: Walk through beautiful palace grounds, surrounded by traditional gardens, moats, and ancient stone walls.
• Nihonbashi District: Explore this historic business district, home to the iconic Nihonbashi Bridge, traditional Edo-period architecture, and high-end shopping.
• Asakusa Temple: Tokyo’s most iconic temple, where locals come to pray for good fortune. A peaceful sanctuary steeped in history.
• Nakamise Street: A lively shopping street leading to Asakusa Temple, filled with vendors offering handmade crafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food.
• Lunch in Nihonbashi: Enjoy a variety of Japanese delicacies at a local market in the heart of this bustling district.
• Authentic Japanese Dinner: Conclude the day with a traditional meal at a local Tokyo restaurant, where you can savor the rich flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine.

Fun Fact: Nihonbashi is named after the “Japan Bridge,” a symbol of Edo (old Tokyo), and was the starting point of the five major routes leading to Japan’s provinces during the Edo period!

Day Three: Hakone Shrine & Ashi Lake Cruise

After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Hakone, enjoying spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi. Upon arrival, explore the beautiful Hakone Shrine, known for its iconic Red Gates floating on the water. Take a serene boat cruise on Lake Ashi to capture the best views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding cherry blossoms. End the day with a relaxing stay at Hotel Indigo Hakone, near a famed cherry blossom park.

Highlights

• Scenic Drive to Hakone: A picturesque route through mountainous terrain with breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi.
• Hakone Shrine Visit: Explore this ancient shrine, famous for its torii gates on the lake, surrounded by spiritual and scenic beauty.
• Lake Ashi Boat Cruise: Sail across this volcanic lake to capture stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscape.
• Hotel Indigo Hakone Stay: Located near a renowned cherry blossom park, perfect for evening strolls among the blossoms.
• Cherry Blossom Viewing: Enjoy one of Japan’s most iconic seasonal spectacles as the cherry trees bloom near your hotel.

Fun Fact: Hakone is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, making it one of the best places to experience both nature and culture in Japan!

Start your day with a rejuvenating soak in the hot springs at your Hakone hotel. After breakfast, board the sleek bullet train bound for Kyoto, enjoying stunning views of Japan’s countryside. Upon arrival, check in at the Kyoto Brighton Hotel, and dive into an exciting cultural experience with a private cooking class. Learn how to prepare traditional Japanese dishes, including tempura tofu and Bento boxes, while mastering the art of Izakaya-style cuisine.

Highlights

• Hot Springs: Relax in Hakone’s renowned hot springs, known for their therapeutic benefits and stunning surroundings.
• Bullet Train to Kyoto: Travel at top speeds while enjoying views of Japan’s countryside, including rice paddies and mountains.
• Kyoto Brighton Hotel: Stay in a luxurious, centrally located hotel that offers easy access to Kyoto’s historic sites.
• Private Cooking Class: Get hands-on with traditional Japanese cooking, learning to create Bento boxes, tempura dishes, and other Izakaya-style favorites.

Fun Fact: Kyoto is home to over 1,600 temples and shrines, making it the cultural heart of Japan!

Day Five: Tea Ceremony & Kyoto City Tour

Immerse yourself in the elegance of Kyoto with a day designed to captivate and inspire. Begin by donning traditional kimonos for an authentic tea ceremony, learning the graceful rituals while savoring matcha and Japanese sweets. Stroll the newly opened gardens of the Kyoto Imperial Palace before heading to the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where towering bamboo transports you to another world. End with a visit to the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji, a golden temple that shines against serene water—perfect for peaceful reflection and photography.

Highlights

• Kimono Tea Ceremony: Embrace Japan’s cultural heritage by wearing a kimono and enjoying tea with traditional sweets in a beautiful, serene setting. Perfect for creating unforgettable memories with new friends.
• Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens: Walk through the recently opened, lush gardens, filled with seasonal blooms and an atmosphere of royal elegance.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Wander through this mystical forest, where the towering bamboo and quiet ambiance offer a magical escape—ideal for peaceful reflection.
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Visit this famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the golden temple shimmers against a serene pond, creating a perfect moment for photography and meditation.

Fun Fact: The reflective beauty of the Golden Pavilion’s top two floors, covered entirely in gold leaf, symbolizes the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment!

Day Six: Arrival & Hiroshima City Tour with Miyajima Island

After breakfast, embark on an emotional and educational journey to Hiroshima, a city reborn from history. Begin at Peace Memorial Park, where the A-bomb dome stands as a symbol of resilience. Reflect on the events of August 6, 1945, and the city’s inspiring recovery. After lunch, enjoy a serene ferry ride to Miyajima Island, a picturesque escape where the iconic Itsukushima Shrine appears to float on water, offering a moment of peace and beauty.

Highlights

• Kyoto to Hiroshima by Train: Ride Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen, enjoying views of the countryside.
• Peace Memorial Park: Explore Hiroshima’s profound history with a visit to the A-bomb dome and memorial exhibits, a moving reminder of the strength of the human spirit.
• Miyajima Island Ferry Ride: Savor the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea during this scenic ferry ride, an ideal moment for reflection and connection with your fellow travelers.
• Itsukushima Shrine: Walk through this enchanting shrine, where the stunning “floating” torii gate during high tide creates a magical and serene atmosphere.

Fun Fact: Miyajima Island has long been considered a sacred site in Japan, and deer, believed to be messengers of the gods, roam freely on the island!

Day Seven: Japanese Alps and an Exclusive Geisha Evening

After breakfast, embark on a scenic adventure through the Japanese Alps to Kanazawa. As the train winds through breathtaking landscapes, enjoy the company of your new friends, sharing stories and laughter over Bento boxes. Upon arriving in Kanazawa, known for its rich craft traditions and beautiful architecture, settle in before the evening’s highlight: an exclusive, intimate experience with a Geisha in the Higashi-Chaya district. Learn about her life and training, all while bonding with fellow travelers in this immersive cultural experience.

Highlights

• Scenic Train through the Japanese Alps: Enjoy spectacular views with friends, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
• Kanazawa: A treasure trove of traditional Japanese crafts, architecture, and local cuisine.
• Exclusive Geisha Evening: A once-in-a-lifetime, private tea house experience where you’ll meet and converse with a Geisha, learning about her intricate world of music, dance, and conversation.
• Cultural Adventure: This immersive experience is perfect for women looking to deepen friendships while exploring the rich traditions of Japan.

Fun Fact: Geishas undergo years of rigorous training in traditional Japanese arts, making them masters of multiple cultural disciplines, from music to flower arranging!

Day Eight: Exploring Kanazawa

After breakfast, embark on a day filled with history and beauty, guided by your private tour guide through the cultural wonders of Kanazawa. Begin with a serene walk through the renowned Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most famous gardens, where the iconic stone bridges and tranquil ponds create a peaceful atmosphere. Next, explore the vibrant Omicho Market, buzzing with fresh seafood and local specialties. End the day with a visit to the Oyama Shrine and the majestic Kanazawa Castle, followed by a relaxing stroll through the park before a shared dinner with friends.

Highlights

• Kenrokuen Garden: Stroll through one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved gardens, where each season offers a unique landscape of ponds, flowers, and trees.
• Omicho Market: Dive into the heart of Kanazawa’s culinary culture, sampling local delicacies and exploring the bustling stalls filled with fresh produce and seafood.
• Oyama Shrine: Visit this historically significant shrine, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• Kanazawa Castle: Wander through the grand grounds of this iconic castle, which offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
• Stroll Through Kanazawa Park: Take in the serene atmosphere of the park, ideal for unwinding and enjoying quiet moments with fellow travelers.
• Shared Dinner: End the day with a delightful meal, reflecting on the beauty and history you’ve explored together.

Fun Fact: Kenrokuen Garden is considered one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens,” designed to embody six attributes: spaciousness, serenity, history, water features, artifice, and scenic views!

Day Nine: Day Trip to Shirakawa-go, Gokayama & Takayama
Journey through the heart of the Japanese Alps to visit the enchanting villages of Shirakawa-go, Gokayama, and Takayama, all UNESCO World Heritage sites. These villages are famous for their Gassho-style, thatched-roof houses and traditional mountain culture. Enjoy the spectacular alpine scenery while sampling local delicacies and exploring charming streets lined with shops and historical homes. After a full day of adventure, return to the hotel for relaxation and dinner.

Highlights

• Shirakawa-go: Explore this iconic village, known for its picturesque thatched-roof homes nestled in a serene valley.
• Gokayama: Visit this less-traveled gem, offering a more intimate view of traditional Japanese mountain life.
• Takayama: Wander through this vibrant town with beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, perfect for sightseeing and shopping.
• Scenic Drive through the Japanese Alps: Take in the breathtaking mountain vistas as you journey between these unique destinations.
• Culinary Delights: Savor the distinct flavors of the region with local dishes unique to the Japanese Alps.

Fun Fact: The Gassho-style houses in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are built with steep roofs to endure heavy snowfall, symbolizing “hands in prayer.”

Day Ten: Back to Tokyo We Go!

After a delightful breakfast in the countryside, board the train for a scenic 2.5-hour journey back to Tokyo, soaking in the stunning landscapes one last time. Upon arriving at The Celestine Ginza Hotel, dive into the vibrant energy of Tokyo. This is your chance to explore new sights, revisit favorite spots, or indulge in some exciting shopping. As the day winds down, enjoy a special farewell dinner with your fellow travelers, sharing stories, laughter, and the unforgettable memories you’ve created together.

Highlights

• Scenic Train Ride to Tokyo: Marvel at Japan’s picturesque countryside during the journey.
• Afternoon in Tokyo: Dive into the lively atmosphere of Ginza, perfect for sightseeing or shopping.
• Farewell Dinner: Celebrate the incredible journey with new friends, reminiscing over shared adventures.

Fun Fact: The Celestine Ginza Hotel is nestled in Tokyo’s premier shopping and entertainment district, known for its luxury boutiques and vibrant nightlife!

Day Eleven: Departure Day – Farewell to Friends!

As your journey comes to a close, enjoy a final breakfast with your fellow travelers before departing for the airport. Reflect on the incredible experiences shared, and take time to say goodbye to the friends you’ve made along the way. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transported to the airport to catch your return flight home, taking with you cherished memories of Japan and the unforgettable adventure.

Highlights

• Farewell Breakfast: Share one last meal with your new friends.
• Airport Transfer: Easy and smooth travel to the airport for your return flight home.

Fun Fact: Tokyo’s Narita and Haneda airports are two of the busiest in the world, offering world-class amenities for travelers!

Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.