Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Narita or Haneda International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Tokyo.
Day 2 Tokyo
Begin your journey in Tokyo with a day tour exploring the city’s rich craftsmanship. Start in Asakusa by visiting the iconic Sensoji Temple, followed by a stroll down the bustling Nakamise Street, where traditional crafts and treats abound. Next, head to the Kappabashi area, famous for its shops specializing in pottery and kitchenware. After exploring these unique stores, immerse yourself in a hands-on kintsugi experience, learning the beautiful art of restoring pottery with gold lacquer.
Day 3 Tokyo (Mashiko)
On the second day, venture out on a day excursion to Mashiko, a town renowned for its rich pottery heritage. Explore the local pottery studios and galleries, where Mashiko-yaki ceramics have been crafted for centuries. Witness artisans at work and admire the blend of traditional and modern designs. You'll also visit the Mashiko Pottery Museum to gain deeper insights into the town's history and the evolution of its ceramics. This day offers an enriching journey into Japan’s pottery culture.
Day 4 Tokyo > Nagoya
Today is free day for your own activities. In the afternoon, you will take a bullet train to Nagoya.
Day 5 Nagoya (Tokoname)
Discover one of Japan's oldest and most famous pottery towns with a visit to Tokoname. Stroll along the Pottery Footpath, lined with historic kilns, ceramic sculptures, and galleries showcasing Tokoname-yaki, a distinctive style known for its elegant teapots and earthy hues. Visit the Tokoname Ceramics Museum to learn about the town's long history of pottery making, and take time to explore the traditional workshops that have been producing ceramics for centuries.
Day 6 Nagoya > Hiroshima
This morning you will take a bullet train to Hiroshima. Take a ferry ride to Miyajima, renowned for the stunning Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate, which offers a breathtaking sight. Wander around the island's picturesque landscapes, interacting with friendly deer and sampling local delicacies like grilled oysters and maple leaf-shaped cakes.
Day 7 Hiroshima > Hakata
Visit Peace Memorial Park, a tranquil space dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing, featuring poignant landmarks like the A-Bomb Dome. Then visit the Peace Memorial Museum, where exhibits provide a deep and moving insight into the events of August 6, 1945, and the city's ongoing efforts towards promoting peace and reconciliation. Then take the bullet train to Hakata, the vibrant heart of Fukuoka, known for its rich food culture and lively shopping districts. The rest of the day is free for your own activities.
Day 8 Hakata (Saga)
Start your day in Arima, known for its distinctive pottery and traditional craftsmanship. Explore local studios and galleries to see the unique ceramic styles that characterize this region. Then continue to Imari, renowned for its exquisite Imari porcelain. Discover the artistry and rich history behind this celebrated ceramic tradition as you visit local pottery studios and galleries.
Day 9 Hakata > Kyoto
Take a bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that create a stunning tunnel through the lush forested mountainside. Next, explore Sanju Sangendo, home to a remarkable hall filled with 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
Day 10 Kyoto
You will explore the exquisite beauty of Kinkakuji, the renowned Golden Pavilion, with its shimmering golden exterior set against a serene pond and lush gardens. Afterward, you will venture into the scenic Arashiyama area, where you can wander through the tranquil Sagano bamboo grove, known for its towering bamboo stalks swaying gently in the breeze. Your tour will also include a visit to Tenryuji Temple famed for its stunning garden landscapes and historic architecture.
Day 11 Kyoto
Visit Kiyomizu Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning wooden stage that offers panoramic views of Kyoto. Then, explore the Kiyomizuyaki pottery district, where you can discover beautifully crafted ceramics unique to the area. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, where you will experience the elegance and ritual of Japanese tea preparation. In the evening stroll through the historic Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and the chance to spot a geisha.
Day 12 Kyoto > Kaga Onsen
Enjoy a leisurely morning with free time to explore at your own pace. In the afternoon, take the train to Kaga Onsen, a renowned hot spring resort known for its therapeutic waters and tranquil atmosphere. Settle into a traditional ryokan, where you will experience the comfort of Japanese-style accommodations and relax in soothing onsen baths.
Day 13 Kaga Onsen > Kanazawa
Travel to Kanazawa, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Omicho Market, where you can sample a variety of fresh seafood and local delicacies. Afterward, visit the Higashi Chaya District, a historic geisha district renowned for its well-preserved traditional tea houses and charming streets.
Day 14 Kanazawa
Visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens, known for its stunning seasonal displays and serene atmosphere. Next, experience the art of makie, a traditional Japanese lacquerware technique, with a hands-on workshop. Explore Kutaniyaki, a local pottery style known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs, at nearby studios or galleries. Then visit the Nagamachi Samurai District, where you can wander through well-preserved samurai residences and gain insight into the life of the samurai era.
Day 15 Kanazawa (Shirakawago)
Embark on a scenic day trip to Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its picturesque gassho-zukuri farmhouses with their steep thatched roofs. Wander through the charming village, set against a backdrop of lush mountains, and explore traditional houses that offer a glimpse into rural life from centuries past. Enjoy the serene landscape, visit local crafts shops, and experience the timeless beauty of this historic village.
Day 16 Kanazawa > Tokyo
Take a bullet train to travel back to Tokyo. Rest of the day is free for your own activities.
Day 17 Tokyo
Free day to explore at your own pace. Take the opportunity to relax, revisit favorite spots, or indulge in some last-minute shopping.
Day 18 Depart Tokyo
You will be transferred to Narita or Haneda International airport for your onward flight.
