from $15,620* per person	9 Days	Year-round
Luxury accommodations		Exertion level: 3
Operator: Artisans of Leisure		12 people max

Whether you're a first time or return visitor to Japan, "Essence of Japan" is our most recommended itinerary. The tour includes great rooms at Japan's most acclaimed luxury hotels and a stay at one of Japan's most exclusive ryokan, where you'll have the opportunity to soak in private outdoor hot springs and dine on gourmet kaiseki cuisine.

Your private guides and drivers will assist you to explore Tokyo's main cultural attractions and upscale neighborhoods and shopping districts, including the Meiji Shrine, Ginza, Harajuku and Aoyama. Spend a day visiting rural temples and shrines in Kamakura en route to Hakone for a close-up view of Mt. Fuji. Continue by bullet train to the ancient city of Kyoto for several days of private touring and exclusive access to the city's most enchanting gardens, imperial villas, temples and shrines, local specialty shops and food markets, restaurants, and residential districts. A day excursion to the I. M. Pei-designed Miho Museum will afford the opportunity to see Kyoto's beautiful countryside homes, not to mention one of the most talked-about museums in the world. Alternatively, opt to take an excursion to Nara, the birthplace of Buddhism in Japan, for a day spent touring ancient temples and shrines set in a forested hillside park. Return to Tokyo for last-minute shopping and free time in the city.