Overview
Japan is an ancient and enigmatic land, and our insider’s journey reveals fascinating aspects of it that few travelers see. In Matsue, a castle town in the northwest, we explore its 400-year-old feudal stronghold and the elegant samurai houses encircling it (with the cherry blossoms of spring enhancing our visit!). At Kinosaki Onsen, a traditional hot springs town on the Sea of Japan, we soak up the classic ambience and savor the fresh seafood. We’ll walk the lanes of storied Kyoto, seeking off-the-beaten path temples and gardens, with a grand finale in Takayama in the Japanese Alps, where we’ll join in the fun of the cherry blossom festival. Artisan visits, onsen baths, culinary treats, and the warm hospitality of the Japanese welcome us at every turn.
This trip was very interesting and a great introduction to Japan—a nice mix of urban and rural. Our days were full of interesting sights and experiences, still leaving time for us to explore on our own. We definitely gained insights into Japanese culture.
— Lynne R., New York, NY
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-4
Osaka / Matsue
In Matsue, where we stay in our favorite riverside ryokan, we walk the labyrinthine paths of the castle and stroll the peaceful woodlands around it, alive in spring with camellias and azaleas in bloom. The local tofu stalls and sake factory are on our walks, and at the celebrated Adachi Museum of Art, we explore its vast and surreal garden, designed as a “living painting.”
Days 5-6
Kinosaki Onsen / Izushi
We travel a beautiful coastal route along the Sea of Japan to under-the-radar Kinosaki Onsen, a hidden gem of a town and a local favorite since the 8th century. We’ll enjoy the classic sukiya architecture and, of course, relaxing soaks in hot springs. Each onsen (hot spring) in this town is uniquely designed and heralded for its specific curative properties and legendary history. We’ll also visit the Edo-era castle town of Izushi to sample its unique style of soba (buckwheat noodles).
Days 7-10
Kyoto
Thousand-year-old Kyoto offers a blend of exquisite gardens, venerated temples, tea houses, and folk arts. We’ll visit local artisans and explore the smaller temples and gardens in hidden corners of the city.
Days 11-14
Takayama / Spring Festival
This mountain town has a heritage revealed in wooden shrines and temples built by Hida master craftsmen in the Middle Ages. Here we witness the Takayama Festival, one of Japan’s most beautiful celebrations, complete with a mikoshi (shrine) procession, elaborately decorated floats pulled through the streets, and karakuri doll performances. Depart Day 14 via Osaka.
Temples, Treasures, and Teahouses
Highlights
Highlights
Details
Walking, including some steep stairs, 6-7 hours a day, Japanese-style dining (sitting on floor)
