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
Days 1-4, Apr 3- 6, 2020
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.”
Osaka / Matsue - Days 1-4
Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport
Day 1 (1 night), Osaka, JapanThis hotel couldn’t be more convenient for travelers transiting Osaka—it’s located just a short walk from the passenger terminal and train station. Guest rooms are modern, spacious, and quiet (despite the proximity of jets landing and taking off) and there is a good breakfast buffet.
Ohashikan Ryokan
Days 2 to 4 (3 nights), Matsue, JapanAs the oldest ryokan in Matsue, Ohashikan has a long legacy of authentic Japanese traditions. The ryokan is set within walking distance from Matsue Castle and has a beautiful view of Lake Shinji and the Ohashi River. Inside, tatami-floored guest rooms have futon beds and wonderful vistas of the castle or lake. Each evening, you can choose from the colorful assortment of yukatas (robes) provided to guests and enjoy listening to traditional koto music in the lobby. Please note: single accommodations are not available at the Ohashikan Ryokan.
Days 5-6, Apr 7- 8, 2020
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).
Kinosaki Onsen / Izushi - Days 5-6
Yuraku Kinosaki Spa and Gardens
Days 5 to 6 (2 nights), Toyooka, JapanSet amid tranquil Japanese gardens, this onsen ryokan is the perfect place to relax. Guest rooms are Japanese-style rooms with tatami mat floors and futon bedding. There are both indoor and open-air hot spring baths to enjoy a soak, as well as three private open-air baths built in a bamboo grove. If the hot springs aren't enough of a highlight, the cuisine surely is. All food is seasonal and locally sourced, and is absolutely delicious.
Days 7-10, Apr 9-12, 2020
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.
Kyoto - Days 7-10
Noku Kyoto
Days 7 to 10 (4 nights), Kyoto, JapanNoku puts us in the heart of Kyoto, right next to the Imperial Palace. While we soak up 1,000-year-old Japanese history, we also appreciate the artistry of modern Kyoto. The hotel's guest rooms are sleek and modern, embellished with art pieces reflecting the cultural essence of Kyoto, and each one has a private bathroom. Craft galleries, machiya (townhouses) and scrumptious restaurants are located just out the door. Noku Café serves fresh-roasted coffee, homemade pastries, and traditional Japanese as well as Western breakfast options, a great place to start your day in Kyoto.
Days 11-14, Apr 13-16, 2020
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.
Takayama / Spring Festival - Days 11-14
Honjin Hiranoya Bekkan
Days 11 to 12 (2 nights), Takayama, JapanOverlooking the tranquil Miya River stands Honjin Hiranoya Bekkan—the ideal place to unwind in enchanting Takayama—and whose superb attention to detail in cuisine has been honored with three stars from the Michelin Guide. The scenic property actually consists of two hotels, and we'll be staying in the lovely Bekkan guest rooms with tatami mat floors, views of the city or river, and a welcoming area to enjoy kaiseki-style meals and green tea (served in rooms by the lovely staff). For a bird’s eye view of Takayama, relax in the ryokan’s bathhouse on the seventh floor with full panoramas of the city and the beautiful red Nakabashi Bridge.
Hatoya Zuihokakau
Days 11 to 13 (3 nights), Kyoto, JapanThis modern yet traditional Japanese-style hotel is only a 3-minute walk from Kyoto train station and offers comfortable guest rooms equipped with a bath tub, wash basin, toilet, and shower. The bento breakfast is sumptuous and the public onsen area is large, featuring both indoor and outdoor baths.
Temples, Treasures, and Teahouses
Highlights
Highlights
Details
Walking, including some steep stairs, 6-7 hours a day, Japanese-style dining (sitting on floor)
