Japan, a Tale of Ancient Traditions
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day, 8-night journey through the enchanting landscapes and cultural wonders of Japan. Explore the bustling energy of Tokyo's vibrant streets, Kyoto's ancient temples and traditional districts, and marvel at the iconic beauty of Mount Fuji. Immerse yourself in Japan's rich history, indulge in delicious cuisine, and witness the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation on this captivating exploration of a diverse and captivating country.
Format
Locations
- Osaka
- Nara
- Kyoto
- Nagoya
- Hamamatsu
- Gotemba
- Fujikawaguchiko
- Tokyo
Inclusions
- Round-trip flights to Narita (if flight and hotel option is chosen)
- One-way flight from Narita International Airport to Kansai's international airport (your tour will end in Tokyo. Your return flight to Canada will be out of Narita International Airport)
- 8 nights of Superior accommodation with meal inclusions according to itinerary (4 nights in Osaka, 1 night in Hamamatsu, 1 night in Fuji, 2 nights in Tokyo)
- Meal inclusions and regional delicacies mentioned in the below itinerary
- Shared round-trip transfers to/from airport, service provided on the airport shuttle (local assistance will be provided to ensure your transfer to the hotel goes smoothly)
- Shared transfers for all sightseeing activities within the itinerary in air-conditioned motorcoach
- Kyoto to Nagoya transfer in Shinkansen (bullet train)
- Lake Kawaguchi boat cruise
- Services of English-speaking tour guides and driver service fees
- Landmark entrance fees according to the itinerary, unless specified otherwise
- Hotel taxes, fees, and service charges
- Earn 4,000 extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour for travel completed by December 31, 2025
- More Moments activities included:
- Nara: Todai-ji Temple, Daibutsuden (Great Budha Hal) and the Nara Park
- Osaka: Osaka Castle, a visit to the Dotonbori Entertainment District
- Kyoto: Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Higashi Hongan-ji
- Nagoya: Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
- Gotemba, Hamamatsu and Mt. Fuji: Gotemba Peace Park, Oshino Hakkai, Sengenjinja Shrine, and a picturesque ride on board of a cruise on Lake Kawaguchi
- Tokyo: Meiji Shrine, Sensoji Temple, stroll in the Nakamise shopping street
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Overnight flight to Narita International Airport.
Day 2
Welcome to Osaka
Upon arrival to Narita’s International Airport, claim your luggage and go through customs and immigration, once cleared proceed to check-in for your flight to Osaka.
Upon arrival at Kansai’s International Airport, a local representative will greet you at the airport exit with an Air Canada Vacations sign. Your local representative will assist you with your transfer service; the transfer from the hotel to the airport will be on your own. After you check-in at your hotel, the rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day 3
Osaka
After breakfast, spend the day at your leisure exploring the gorgeous city of Osaka, or opt for a full day tour to hit some of the region’s most famous landmarks.
($) Optional Activities
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Hiroshima Full-Day Tour (Duration: approximately 11-12 hours)
The highlights:
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum
- Atomic Bomb Dome
- Miyajima Island (transfer by ferry)
- Itsukushima Shrine with Floating Torii Gate
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4
Osaka - Nara - Osaka
After breakfast, you will be transferred on board of an air-conditioned vehicle to Nara, known for its iconic sites. It offers a blend of historical treasures, stunning natural landscapes, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination.
Your first visit of the day will be the Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples, constructed in the 8th century. In its huge area houses various national treasures of Japan. Step foot in the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), housing the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana.
Before departing back to Osaka, you will wander through the Nara Park, where over 1,200 wild sika deer roam free.
Upon returning to Osaka, you will then visit the Osaka Castle, which played a major role in the unification of Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period in the 16th century.
After this last visit, you will be dropped off at Dotonbori, a popular and lively entertainment district, which exemplifies Osaka’s vibrant food culture. You will have some free time to wander around this magnificent district; your return transfer from this attraction to your hotel is included.
More Moments Activities Included
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Todai-ji Temple
Buddhist temple complex that was once one of the powerful Seven Great Temples that hoses the fascinating Great Budha Hall.
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Nara Park
One of the oldest parks in Japan, located at the foot of mount Wakakusa; named as one of the "Places of Scenic Beauty" where over 1,200 wild deer roams freely.
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Osaka Castle
One of Japan's most famous iconic landmarks where you will be able to explore the country’s rich history, while enjoying the beauty of its surroundings.
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Dotonbori Entertainment District
Bustling and iconic entertainment district renowned for its vibrant nightlife, delicious street food, neon lights, and lively atmosphere.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5
Osaka
Iconic landmarks, local experiences and leisurely exploration will allow you to savor the essence of Osaka at your own pace and interest! History and Technology museums are a must-see! Or you can venture into the Kuromom Market or spend the day shopping at the Shinsaibashi -suji Shopping Street. Why not join the optional Kansai Culture Tour? The choice is yours!
($) Optional Activities
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Kansai Culture Day Tour with Traditional Lunch Included
The highlights:
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, with thousands of tall bamboo plants
- The “Bamboo Alley,” one of Kyoto’s most photographed sights
- Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine, one of the most sacred and impressive landmarks
- Torii Gates, the most picturesque location on tour, and explore great photo opportunities along the ancient street
- Experience a unique tea ceremony and Wakashi making
- The making of Japanese sweets called nerikiri, perfect for the tea ceremony and ideal for taking back home as a souvenir
Then return to your comfortable vehicle for the relaxing journey back to your hotel.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6
Osaka - Kyoto - Nagoya - Hamamatsu
After breakfast, you will be transferred on an air-conditioned vehicle to Kyoto. The once-capital of Japan and the emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868. Countless temples, shrines, and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today.
Note: Your coach transfer will leave from Kyoto to Nagoya and will wait for you there. Your luggage will be left on board of the coach while you continue with your program.
Your first stop will be Kinkakuji (also known as the Golden Pavilion), a World Heritage Site featuring a shining golden pavilion and a pond-centered garden. Visit the shining Kinkaku with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold and detailed architecture incorporating three distinct styles of Shinden, Samurai, and Zen.
The following visit will be the Higashi Hongan-ji, which is a religious complex of the Pure Land (Jodo Shinshu) Buddhism. Its monumental architecture renowned for being sheltered by the largest wooden roof in the world.
Then you will be transferred to the Kyoto Station, from which you will be able to get a perfect shot of Kyoto tower and have lunch ($).
In the afternoon, experience a true modern marvel by riding the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Kyoto to Nagoya Station where the coach will be waiting for you to continue with the last stop of today’s program.
Upon arrival in Nagoya, you will visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. Here you will learn about the history of Toyota which started out as a textile machinery manufacturer and how it became a successful mass exporter and manufacturer of automotive technology, including robots.
After this visit, you will be transferred to Hamamatsu and stay overnight.
More Moments Activities Included
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Kinkaku-ji
Prominent and iconic Buddhist temple, known for its stunning Golden Pavilion. Marvel at its shimmering golden façade, soak in the tranquility of the surrounding garden, and appreciate the unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty that this iconic temple embodies.
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Higashi Hongan-ji
Religious complex of the Pure Land (Jodo Shinshu) Buddhism. Its monumental architecture is renowned for being sheltered by the largest wooden roof in the world.
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Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
A fascinating museum that offers insights into the history and development of the Toyota Group and Japan's industrial progress.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7
Hamamatsu - Gotemba - Fuji
After breakfast, you will visit Gotemba Peace Park to capture a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji, Oshino Hakkai. Known as the springs of Mount Fuji, the eight ponds are fed by melting snow filtering down from the slopes of nearby Mount Fuji, through porous layers of lava, resulting in very clear spring water that is revered by locals.
Your next stop will be a visit to a Sengenjinja Shrine. Enjoy the picturesque view of Mount Fuji from a distance onboard the cruise on Lake Kawaguchi, a crater lake famous for its views of the famous peak.
Finish the day with a true cultural experience and buffet dinner in our Hot Springs Hotel.
More Moments Activities Included
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Gotemba Peace Park
Serene and reflective park dedicated to promoting peace and commemorating the victims of war, it serves as a place for reflection, remembrance, and spreading messages of peace, making it an inspiring destination for those seeking a serene environment and a deeper understanding of the importance of peace in today's world.
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Oshino Hakkai
Serene and picturesque destination that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the charm of rural Japan, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and an authentic cultural experience amidst stunning landscapes.
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Sengenjinja Shrine
Significant cultural and religious site that offer visitors a glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions and connection with nature, particularly with Mount Fuji's sacredness.
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Lake Kawaguchi Boat Cruise
Crater Lake, famous for its magnificent views of Mount Fuji.
Meal(s): Breakfast and buffet dinner
Day 8
Fuji - Tokyo
After breakfast you will visit the Meiji Shrine in the morning, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken.
Your next stop today is Tokyo Metro to enjoy a panoramic view of enormous Tokyo city.
Later, you will take a stroll through the Sensoji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple), one of Tokyo’s most colourful and popular temples.
Then walk along the famous 820-ft-long Nakamise Shopping Street where you can explore the lines of stalls selling different Japanese-styled goods ($) and souvenirs ($).
More Moments Activities Included
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Meiji Shrine
Stands as a symbol of reverence, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, inviting visitors to experience a peaceful retreat and immerse themselves in Japan's spiritual traditions in the heart of Tokyo.
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Sensō-ji Temple
One of Tokyo's most famous and oldest Buddhist temples, known for its cultural significance and vibrant atmosphere.
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Nakamise Shopping Street
A delightful shopping and cultural experience for tourists exploring the historic Asakusa area.
($) Optional Activities
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Kimono Rental
Explore great photo opportunities along the ancient street in Japan’s beautiful national dress.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 9
Tokyo
Spend the day at leisure and explore bustling Tokyo. Perhaps discover Japanese history and art at a museum or indulge in some retail therapy at Tokyo’s cutting-edge stores. Alternatively, you may join our optional day trip. Your choice.
($) Optional Activities
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Modern Tokyo Tour – Full-day
The highlights:
- National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation
- The world-famous Tsukiji Fish Market
- Experience the organized Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings of the world
- The Hachiko Statue. Find tranquility at Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
- Time at leisure at the bustling Shinjuku district
After the tour, you will be transferred back to the hotel.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 10
Tokyo - Canada
After breakfast, board your airport shuttle to Narita's International airport for your return flight to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accomodations
Where you'll stay
Location
Hotel
Room details
Type of bed(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people (2 adults, or 1 adults and 1 child)
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Important Information
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- January 01, 2024 to December 31, 2024
- January 20, 2025 to Decmeber 8, 2025
Tour operates on Monday ONLY, except for May 1, 2024 and March 26, 2025 (Wednesday)
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Not included:
- Meals outside of the ones mentioned within the itinerary above.
- Transfers for the optional activities, and any other transfer services required outside of the itinerary above.
- Entrance to other landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Additional activities and excursions
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day, or cancelled due to weather related conditions.
Suggested itineraries:
- Kansai Culture day tour
- Kimono rental
- Modern Tokyo tour
These itineraries are suggestions for activities that are not included in your package, but they are great tips for places to visit and things to do.
Optional tours are to be booked at destination and are to be paid in cash only in U.S dollars and these are based on availability.
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- One-way inter-city flight from Narita International Airport to Kansai International Airport
- From/to airports: Shared service on the airport shuttle, but local assistance will be provided to ensure a smooth service
- Inter-city transfers: Shared service on air-conditioned coach, except for the Kyoto to Nagoya service
- Bullet train (Shinkansen) transfer service from Kyoto to Nagoya
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The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice. The order in which destinations are visited or day excursions occur may change due to operational restrictions, such as weather and accommodation availability.