Temples, Treasures and Teahouses

Japan is an ancient and enigmatic land. The perfect way to unravel its mysteries is by exploring on a walking journey with a Trip Leader who has an extraordinary gift for introducing people to its culture. We delve deeply into places like old Kyoto, the romantic city of lantern-lit lanes and two thousand temples, and a variety of other settings that reveal Japan’s inner secrets. We also visit the charming town of Takayama during Sanno Matsuri, a fabulous festival dating to the 17th century with townsmen in Edo-period dress and ornate wheeled carts paraded through the streets. Throughout our journey, we discover the kindness of the people and the innate sense of beauty and attention to detail that define every aspect of Japanese life.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-6
Kyoto, Japan

Explore Kyoto, an ancient city of gorgeous imperial villas and temples surrounded by elaborate gardens. On daily explorations, we visit extraordinary settings including serene Ryoanji, with its famous Zen Garden, and Nijo Castle, home of the Tokugawa shoguns, where groves of cherry trees erupt in clouds of pink blossoms. We discover welcoming teahouses, incredible food markets, and shops offering superbly crafted folk arts.

Days 7-8
Nara

Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara is home to many of the country’s most revered treasures. In Nara Park, we visit the exquisite 8th century Todaiji Temple, with its huge Buddha statue, see the semi-wild deer that graze the park (they were once considered sacred), and view the many temples, pagodas, and gardens. We also explore massive, 1,300-year-old Horyuji Temple, a World Heritage Site and a vision of old Japan.

Day 9
Koyasan

Atop one of Japan’s holiest mountains, Koyasan is the seat of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. We ride to the mountaintop by cable car for an overnight in a shukubo, or temple lodging.

Days 10-11
Takayama / Spring Festival

A train takes us to the mountain town of Takayama, whose elegant old culture remains much in evidence in the splendidly preserved merchant houses, traditional inns, teahouses, and sake breweries. Here we witness the traditional and joyous Sanno Matsuri festival. Enormous carts, richly decorated with carving and drapery, are displayed at the shrines, then escorted through town complete with astounding karakuri, mechanical puppets that bow, mime, and perform complicated stunts to delight the crowds. We take full advantage of this opportunity to celebrate alongside the locals.

Days 12-14
Kanazawa

In historic Kanazawa, seat of the feudal Maeda Clan, we visit the famous Kenrokuen gardens, Nagamachi samurai houses, and Kanazawa Castle. Depart on Day 14.

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What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 2, Easy to Moderate. This adventure trip features lovely walks in cities and villages. Although not physically demanding, the trip will yield greater rewards if you are in good physical condition and able to stay on your feet for 6-7 hours per day. In Kyoto, there is much to see, and a fair amount of walking is necessary to take it all in—and you will find that there are many steps to climb! Please remember, we will be sleeping on futons and eating at floor level, so it is important that you are able to sit down on and get up off the floor without much difficulty.

Explanation of Trip Levels