Enlarge

Destination:

Japan


Trip Highlights

topAt-A-Glance

2 days in Tokyo
Day trip to Nikko National Park
3 days in Kyoto
Day trip to Himeji

topTokyo: Days 1-2

Japan’s capital city is packed with sights and amusements ranging from time-honored to ultra-modern. You can get your pop culture fix at Sega Joyopolis and the Harajuku District. For a glimpse of the city’s traditional side, you’ll visit the Senso-ji Temple and the Sumo stables, and see a performance at the Shinbashi Enbujō theater (this is the main venue for kabuki in Tokyo while the famed Kabuki-za theater is being rebuilt).

topNikko National Park: Day 3

After a stop at the Tsukiji fish market, you’ll take a train to Nikko National Park. There, you’ll see the dazzling Tosho-go and Futara-san shrines and the spectacular Kegon waterfall.

topKyoto: Days 4-5

The imperial capital for over 1,000 years, Kyoto is the place to immerse yourself in Japan’s ancient traditions and culture. You’ll have a chance to explore the Golden Pavilion, the Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, the Nishiki Market, and the shrines, temples and historic lanes of the Gion District. You’ll also take part in a traditional tea ceremony and see a performance of cultural arts, including ikebana and bunraku.

topHimeji: Day 6

Today, you’ll take a short train ride to visit Himeji Castle. Grand in scale and remarkably preserved, this magnificent samurai castle is now a World Heritage Site.

topKyoto: Day 7

You’ll begin the day with the Philosopher’s Walk along the picturesque Shishigatani Canal, particularly lovely during cherry-blossom season. You’ll also see the Silver Pavilion and have time for browsing in Kawaramachi-dori, one of Kyoto’s main shopping districts.