14-Day Japan Highlights Tour with Skiing in Hokkaido

• Delve into the bustling world of Tsukiji Outer Market, a renowned hub for fresh seafood and culinary traditions. Witness the lively auctions and vibrant atmosphere as you explore the market's diverse offerings, from glistening tuna to exotic delicacies.
• Embark on a culinary adventure as you learn the art of making sushi under the guidance of a skilled chef. Discover the secrets behind perfect sushi rice, master the art of slicing fish, and assemble your own delectable creations. Savor the fruits of your labor and indulge in a satisfying lunch of freshly prepared sushi.
• Have a tranquil retreat at Hama-rikyu Gardens, a serene oasis amid the bustling city. Stroll through the meticulously-manicured landscape, admiring the traditional Japanese gardens, tranquil ponds, and picturesque teahouses. Savor the tranquility of nature as you reflect on the day's unforgettable experiences.
• Step into a world of vibrant colors and fantastical characters at an anime café. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Japanese animation, surrounded by life-sized figurines and themed décor. Indulge in anime-inspired treats and beverages while enjoying the unique atmosphere.

Just a 1½-hour drive from Tokyo lies Lake Kawaguchi, the heart of the Fuji Five Lakes and the most convenient to reach. Explore the northern shore, where you'll find countless picturesque spots perfect for framing majestic Mount Fuji.

• Visit Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, a world-class art museum nestled in this beautiful natural setting. It houses the stunning textile works of Itchiku Kubota, renowned for reviving the lost dyeing art of tsujigahana. The museum offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi.
• Take the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway up the mountain to the observation deck to observe the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi below.
• End your tour at Oshino Hakkai village, a picturesque set of eight ponds located in the Fuji Five Lakes region, each pond with its very own story to tell. Visitors can enjoy strolling around the ponds, taking photos, and even tasting the pure water.

• In the morning, your private driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your onward flight to Sapporo.
• Upon arrival, your Hokkaido private driver will greet you at the airport and then transfer you to your hotel in Niseko. Check in your wonderful ski-in and ski-out hotel with fantastic views of Mount Yotei.

• Niseko United is a world-renowned ski resort situated in Hokkaido, celebrated for its consistently high snowfall, often surpassing 15 meters per season. This copious snowfall creates some of the finest powder skiing and snowboarding conditions worldwide.
• With a Niseko United All Mountain Pass, visitors can ski and snowboard across four areas: Niseko Annupuri (a large mountain with long runs and varied terrain), Niseko Village (groomed runs and accommodation), Niseko Grand Hirafu (largest area, best powder snow), and Niseko Hanazono (winter activities base).
• Niseko caters to a wide range of terrains suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, offering gentle slopes for beginners and challenging off-piste runs for advanced riders. The resort also features top-notch accommodation options, including high-end hotels, apartments, and chalets, which attract visitors seeking both comfort and enjoyment.
• Niseko's vibrant après-ski scene provides a myriad of bars, restaurants, and nightlife options. For families looking to unwind after taking care of the children, Niseko stands out as a good choice.

• Ascend majestic Osaka Castle, a symbol of Osaka's rich history and enduring spirit. Explore the castle's impressive fortifications, admire its panoramic views of the city, and delve into fascinating stories of the samurai warriors who once called this fortress home.
• Visit Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, where you can marvel at traditional Japanese woodblock prints.
• Embark on our half-day culinary delights adventure in vibrant Shinsekai ('New World') district, offering a taste of Osaka's gastronomy.

• In the morning, embark on an hour's drive to Kyoto.
• Immerse yourself in the sacred grounds of enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding their way up Mount Inari. Stroll along the seemingly endless path, surrounded by the vibrant red gates, and experience the spiritual serenity that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.
• Explore Samurai and Ninja Museum, an absolute must-visit, family-friendly experience. You will not only see exhibits including samurai armor and weapons, ninja tools and gadgets, and historical artifacts, but also you can participate in interactive experiences such as a samurai armor try-on and ninja star throwing.

• Commence your day with a visit to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate (1603–1868).
• Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Nishiki Market, a culinary paradise renowned for its fresh produce, traditional sweets, and delectable street food. Wander through the rows of stalls, savor the aromas and flavors of Kyoto's cuisine, and discover hidden treasures among the market's diverse offerings.
• Take an unforgettable visit to Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched atop Mount Otowa. Ascend Kiyomizu-dera stage, where breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto's cityscape unfold before you.
• Venture into enchanting Gion district, the heart of Kyoto's geisha culture. As dusk descends, immerse yourself in the district's vibrant nightlife, where you may catch a glimpse of geishas and maiko (apprentice geishas) as they make their way to traditional teahouses.
• Enjoy an expertly-hosted tea ceremony. Experience a traditional tea ceremony led by a maiko, where powdered green tea (matcha) takes center stage. The staff will help you put on a traditional kimono and do your hair, which will make this experience authentic, memorable, and informative.

• Commence your day with a visit to Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, a shimmering masterpiece of Japanese architecture.
• Visit the Arashiyama area and capture the picturesque beauty of Togetsu-kyo Bridge, a graceful wooden structure spanning the Katsura River.
• Wander through enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a verdant oasis on the western edge of the city. Follow the winding paths, enveloped by the gentle rustling of bamboo leaves, and discover the tranquility that has drawn visitors for centuries.
• Hike up Mount Iwata to Monkey Park Iwatayama for breathtaking panoramic views of the Arashiyama district and the surrounding mountains, and observe the wild monkeys in their natural habitat.
• Take a Sagano Romantic Train ride from Arashiyama back to downtown Kyoto, possibly featuring fantastic views of a pristine, snow-covered winter wonderland.