Trip Length:
7 Days
Group Size:
8 - 24
Accommodation:
4-Star Hotels
Double or Single Occupancy
Inclusions:
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Accommodations
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All City Transfers
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Entry Fees and Tickets to Activities
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Private Local Guide & Trip Host
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Workshops and Gatherings Provided by Host
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All Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
Pricing:
$ 2,695
$555 off when you use discount code JAPAN555
$ 3,250
Only 25% deposit needed to book your spot. Payment plans available!
Unleash Your Inner Child on a 7-Day Adventure Across Japan!
Get ready for an unforgettable journey from Osaka to Kyoto, packed with ancient traditions, mystical landscapes, and mouthwatering experiences. On this epic trip, you will:
Train with a Ninjutsu master to hone your skills like a true warrior. Explore a magical bamboo forest and feel the serenity of the surroundings. Take in dazzling Kabuki theater performances and enjoy vibrant shows in Kyoto’s Gion district, home to the Geishas. Dive into the bustling energy of Osaka’s Kuromon Market, indulging in fresh produce, local delicacies, and sensory delights. Discover Osaka Castle, a symbol of resilience and rich history. Wander through the mesmerizing Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its stunning torii gates that lead you into a spiritual realm. Encounter the sacred deer at Nara’s "Deer" Park, where these majestic creatures roam freely. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony, learn the art of sushi making, and more!
✨ Special Offer: Use code JAPAN555 to get a $555 discount on your trip! ✨
(Limited discounted spots available!)
(Please note that Japanese cuisine often includes animal products and/or gluten. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets for the included meals.)
Day 1
Arrive in Osaka!
Explore the city and local markets while getting to know your new travel family. We will have a gorgeous Welcome Dinner then Orientation! We will review the week ahead and walk you through what to expect. We'll be handing our printed itineraries and gift bags.
Your host (that’s me! hi!) has created a brief but badass presentation about the history of Japan - the timeline of the land, the importance of the sites we will be visiting, and how the culture has evolved through the ages.
Day 2
The day begins by taking the metro train to explore Kuromon Market, offering an array of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Explore the bustling market lanes, savoring iconic Osaka street foods, and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Next, you’re off to Shinsekai, a vibrant district blending old-world charm with contemporary energy. Explore the narrow streets, retro arcades, and enjoy local delicacies like kushikatsu. The journey continues to Dotonbori, capturing the essence of Osaka through iconic landmarks.
Day 3
Explore Osaka Castle, originally established in 1583. This iconic fortress witnessed the rule of shoguns and the eventual restoration of power to the Meiji Emperor, providing insights into pivotal moments that shaped Japan's political landscape.
You’ll then take a short walk to the riverside, to board a shared boat for a leisurely journey along the Neya River. The cruise offers breathtaking views of Osaka Castle Park, Nakanoshima island's modern architecture, and the tranquil beauty of Sakuranomiya Park with its cherry blossoms. The city skyline, adorned with famous buildings, unfolds before you, showcasing Osaka's vibrant and dynamic urban landscape.
Finally, we will laugh our asses off and rack up prizes at family game night!
Day 4
Bid farewell to Osaka and head to Kyoto!
Experience a traditional tea ceremony and learn how to make your own matcha! Then we will visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. Explore the main shrine and embark on a captivating hike up Mount Inari, adorned with over ten thousand torii gates.
Finally, dash for an early dinner at Honke Owariya, a 400 year old restaurant!
Day 5
Today, we adventure on a day trip to Nara!
Begin with a short walk to Todaiji Temple, the world's largest wooden building, where you'll marvel at the monumental wooden gateway and encounter the world's largest bronze Buddha statue within its impressive complex grounds. Next, walk over to the ancient and architecturally stunning Kasuga Taisha, a celebrated Shinto shrine adorned with centuries-old bronze and stone lanterns. Proceed on a walk over to Nara “deer” Park, a haven for over a thousand sacred deer, considered messengers of the gods, freely roaming the grounds. Experience the quaint charm of the park, stroll through its historic beauty, and interact with the friendly deer!
In the evening, enjoy an authentic Kabuki Show at the Minamiza Theatre!
Day 6
Enjoy a day full of diverse and unique workshops provided by your host!
Spend the morning training with a Ninjutsu Master! Train in the martial art, weaponry, stealth techniques, survival strategies, and philosophies!
Take in the sights on a walking tour of the Gion district, Kyoto’s official Geisha district with a Maiko, a Geisha apprentice! Visit some of the oldest establishments in Japan - including Kameya Kiyonaga, a 400 year old sweet shop!
Finally, enjoy an optional workshop on Tebori, traditional Japanese tattooing! We will host a presentation on how Japanese communities tattooed and used body modification. Learn what tools were used, how they made ink, the spiritual significance they carried, and the controversial role tattooing carries in the Japanese culture!
Day 7
After breakfast, we will say our farewells to the members of our group heading to the airport.
Those staying for the day will embark on a journey to the Rakusai Bamboo Forest for a day of exploration! Spend the afternoon at local hot spring. And in the evening, attend a cooking class in which we learn to make our own sushi!
