Trip highlights

Day 1 (April 2)

We’ll arrive in Osaka around midday. Since Himeji is just an hour away, we’ll have enough time to visit one of Japan’s most beautiful castles during cherry blossom season – Himeji Castle.

Afterwards, we’ll dive straight into Osaka’s neon-lit streets and famous street food scene.

I hope you enjoy seafood, because takoyaki (octopus-filled balls) is one of Osaka’s signature delicacies! :)

Day 2 (April 3)

We’ll experience traditional Japan by taking part in a tea ceremony and spending the day dressed in kimono.

We’ll visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple and step back in time as we wander through the historic streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, with the iconic Yasaka Pagoda nearby.

We’ll also explore the famous Philosopher’s Path and Ginkakuji Temple. This is where you’ll get to admire some truly spectacular cherry blossoms and capture beautiful photos wearing your kimono!

In the evening, we’ll take part in a chopstick-making workshop and learn traditional Japanese knife-sharpening techniques from an experienced instructor.

Day 3 (April 4)

We’ll spend the entire day discovering Kyoto with a professional local guide.

Our itinerary includes Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of iconic red torii gates. Afterwards, we’ll visit Kinkakuji and Ryoanji temples and discover the history of Nijo Castle.

Day 4 (April 5)

We’ll take a day trip to Nara.

This is the city where deer roam freely through the streets and parks, practically asking visitors for crackers.

We’ll visit Todaiji Temple, home to Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statue.

Next, we’ll head to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, where hundreds of stone lanterns emerge from the moss-covered landscape.

Finally, we’ll get hands-on with an authentic Japanese calligraphy lesson.

Back in Kyoto, we’ll enjoy a sake tasting.

Japan’s national drink comes in many varieties – dry, sweet, fruity, smoky and much more diverse than you might expect!

Day 5 (April 6)

We’ll travel to Kanazawa, where we’ll get a glimpse of Japan during the Edo period.

First, we’ll explore Nagamachi, a former samurai district where samurai and their families once lived. The area has preserved much of its historical atmosphere, making it a fascinating place to visit.

Next, we’ll visit Myoryuji Temple, commonly known as Ninja Temple. Built during the Edo period, this temple is famous for its unusual architecture and hidden defensive features.

After lunch, we’ll take part in a wagashi-making workshop and learn how to prepare traditional Japanese sweets.

Day 6 (April 7)

We’ll start the morning at Kenrokuen Garden, widely regarded as one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens, alongside Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama.

Next, we’ll briefly visit the reconstructed Kanazawa Castle, surrounded by cherry blossoms.

After lunch, we’ll head to Higashi Chaya District to discover the traditional world of chaya – teahouses where geisha entertain guests through music and dance.

We’ll visit Kanazawa Asanogawa Enyukai Hall, where local geisha culture is introduced through various exhibits.

We’ll also explore the Shima Museum, a preserved historical teahouse featuring rooms where geisha once performed, along with its kitchen and various instruments and personal belongings used by geisha.

Afterwards, we’ll stop by Hakuza Gold Leaf Store, where you’ll discover products made using Kanazawa’s famous gold leaf.

We’ll end the day with an experience that is sure to become one of the highlights of our journey: an unforgettable evening with a geisha, where we’ll get to witness authentic traditional performances up close!

Day 7 (April 8)

We’ll travel from Kanazawa to the famous village of Shirakawa-go, located near the Japanese Alps.

Ogimachi is the largest village in the Shirakawa-go area and its main attraction. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to dozens of beautifully preserved gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old!

In the afternoon, we’ll return to Kanazawa before heading straight to a traditional Japanese ryokan for an authentic evening experience.

We’ll enjoy relaxing in the hot springs (onsen) and savour a seasonal kaiseki ryori dinner prepared with local ingredients.

Kaiseki ryori is a traditional form of Japanese haute cuisine. Its origins go back centuries, when simple dishes were served during tea ceremonies. Over time, it evolved into an elaborate dining experience that became popular among the Japanese aristocracy.

And tonight, we’ll be Japanese aristocrats ourselves! :)

Day 8 (April 9)

We’ll spend just half a day in the Toyama area, but it will be enough to discover some of Japan’s most breathtaking cherry blossom spots.

The combination of cherry blossoms, colourful flowers and the dramatic Northern Japanese Alps is guaranteed to leave you speechless.

We’ll also find the perfect spot to enjoy ohanami.

Hanami (花見) literally means “flower viewing”, but for the Japanese, it means something more: gathering beneath cherry blossom trees for a picnic with friends, family or colleagues.

Day 9 (April 9)

We’ll take the Shinkansen bullet train to Tokyo, where our first evening in the capital awaits.

To make a great first impression, we’ll visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku to witness the world’s largest projection mapping display on a building.

Day 10 (April 10)

We’ll discover Tokyo with a professional local guide.

We’ll leave the itinerary in the hands of our guide Justina, who knows the city inside out and proudly claims she’s never had an unhappy guest!

We’ll end the day with a Bunraku puppet theatre performance, followed by dinner with our Japanese friend Hiro, a model and entrepreneur originally from Kagoshima who now lives in Tokyo.

Day 11 (April 11)

We’ll visit Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple.

Nearby, a real test of character awaits: a samurai performance and hands-on experience where you’ll get the chance to try handling a samurai sword.

Afterwards, we’ll head up Tokyo Skytree for spectacular views of the city.

In the evening, we’ll immerse ourselves in digital art at the teamLab museum.

If time permits, we’ll also explore the Odaiba waterfront and enjoy its spectacular fountain show.

Day 12 (April 12)

Today, we’ll experience sumo wrestling and learn more about one of Japan’s most respected traditional sports.

Afterwards, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore Tokyo at your own pace.

Perhaps you’d like to visit the Tokyo National Museum? Or maybe you’re a coffee enthusiast curious to discover what Tokyo’s café scene has to offer?

There are plenty of options, and don’t worry – I’ll have recommendations ready for those who need a little inspiration. :)

In the evening, we’ll meet in Shibuya and visit the famous Shibuya Crossing, where up to half a million people cross every day!

Day 13 (April 13)

Mount Fuji, Japan’s most iconic symbol, offers postcard-perfect views.

We’ll spend the afternoon admiring it from different angles, with cherry blossoms adding to the scenery.

This day will be all about nature and breathtaking landscapes that make you stop and simply take it all in.

We’ll visit Lake Kawaguchiko, Arakurayama Sengen Park and Ryuganbuchi along the Urui River.

And if visibility isn’t on our side, don’t worry – we have a wonderful alternative planned! ;)

Day 14 (April 14)

We’ll start our final day with something both delicious and practical: a sushi-making class in the Tsukiji Market area.

Once you’re back home in Lithuania, your friends won’t be able to resist asking you to make them some of your very own sushi! :)

Afterwards, you’ll have some free time to enjoy Tokyo, pick up those last souvenirs and do a little spontaneous shopping.

Finally, we’ll make our way to the airport and say goodbye to Japan… at least until next time.

What's included

• Tour leader services throughout the entire journey.

• Transportation costs during the trip, according to the itinerary.

• Accommodation in 3–4-star hotels and one night at a traditional Japanese ryokan.

• Breakfasts throughout the trip, including dinner at the traditional ryokan.

What's not included

• Paid experiences and activities mentioned in the itinerary.

• Meals and restaurant expenses (except hotel breakfasts and breakfast and dinner at the traditional ryokan).

  P.S. Don’t worry – our dining arrangements have already been planned! You’ll definitely get to experience Japanese cuisine. And if you’d prefer to eat separately from the group, I’ll be happy to provide recommendations. You’re free to do your own thing! :)

• Personal expenses.

• Entrance fees and activities not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.

• Transportation costs not included in the itinerary (during free time).

• Luggage forwarding services. I’ll be happy to help arrange luggage delivery between cities, but the price depends on the size and weight of your bags, so it cannot be determined in advance.

• Single-room supplement (if travelling alone): +€545.

Optional Experiences and Activities

• Dinner with our Japanese friend Hiro.

• teamLab Borderless Museum.

• Tokyo Skytree admission.

• Full-day guided tour in Kyoto.

• Guided tour of Tokyo with Justina.

• Samurai experience.

• Sumo wrestling tournament tickets in Osaka.

• Entrance tickets to the temples and shrines included in the itinerary (all cities).

• Bunraku puppet theatre performance.

• Sushi-making class with a professional chef.

• Atomic Bomb Museum admission.

• Mount Misen ropeway (Miyajima).

• Japanese garden admission.

• Tea ceremony with a maiko, including kimono rental in Kyoto.

• Sake tasting.

• Nijo Castle admission.

• Chopstick-making workshop.

• Japanese calligraphy lesson.

• Hakone Free Pass.

• Kamakura Great Buddha admission.

• Kintsugi workshop.

• Nikko Pass.

• The trip will go ahead once a minimum of 8 travellers have registered. If fewer than 8 travellers sign up, the trip price will be recalculated.

• Flight tickets are non-changeable and non-refundable. Name changes are possible for an additional fee only.

• Lithuanian citizens must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months after the end of the trip.

• For logistical reasons, the order of excursions, activities and sightseeing attractions may change.

• To ensure the safety of all travellers, the tour organiser (UAB “Kelionės Jums”) reserves the right to make changes to the travel itinerary, the order of excursions, accommodation, flights or transfers if unforeseen circumstances arise during the trip (such as weather conditions, natural disasters, strikes, political situations, etc.).

• The tour organiser (UAB “Kelionės Jums”) is not responsible for any additional expenses resulting from such circumstances (e.g. replacement flight tickets, additional accommodation, transfers, etc.).

• Any food allergies or other allergies must be disclosed before booking the trip.

• Special restaurant recommendations for vegans and vegetarians will not be provided.
  

Travel partner and organiser: UAB “Kelionės Jums”.