Japan Cherry Blossom-Budget Trip

First stop for the day is Asakusa Sensoji Temple, which is located in Tokyo's Asakusa district and is the city's oldest temple and shrine complex. On the way to the main temple hall, browse the stalls along the Nakamise district, which sells a variety of traditional and modern Japanese souvenir goods, from kimono to cute keychains. We go from there to admire the cherry blossoms at Ueno Park – one of the top viewing spots in Tokyo. You can see cherry blossoms all over the park, but especially lovely locations within this enormous public park include the long, broad promenade lined with cherry trees, and the dainty pastel- pink flowers that overhang the large central pond. Next, stroll Harajuku’s Takeshita District and enjoy browsing the fascinating shops displaying the latest fashion trends. Harajuku is especially known for its eccentric youth fashions, but cute and conventional items can be purchased here as well. Then we go to Shibuya to experience the Shibuya “Scramble Crossing” which, at the right signal, floods the intersection with a great throng of oncoming businesspeople, shoppers, and travelers, converging from all directions. On one corner of the crossing is the statue of the faithful Akita dog, Hachiko, who is celebrated for his enduring loyalty to his master.

Today, we depart Tokyo for Mount Fuji where, if the weather is in our favor, we will visit the 5th station. From there, you can see some of the mountain's enchanting landscape and take in views of the peak. We then enjoy a cruise of Lake Ashi, where you can appreciate Hakone’s splendid natural scenery, which includes a view of the vermillion torii shrine gate of Hakone Shrine, the sight of rolling hills covered in forest, and even scenes of Mount Fuji (in clear weather). We then go to Owakudani, where visitors will have the chance to see steamy hot springs and sulfurous fumes along the trails of an active volcanic zone. After, we continue to Kanzanji Onsen and the evening's accommodation.

Today, we continue to Kyoto, where we begin our day of sightseeing Japan's ancient capital with Fushimi Inari Shrine – the chief shrine of the hundreds of shrines throughout the country dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of economic prosperity, rice, and foxes. What sets this shrine apart is the sight of hundreds of bright vermillion “torii” gates that form long pathways through the forest covering Mount Inari. From there, head to the Fushimi Sake District, where rows of old-fashioned buildings house over 40 traditional sake breweries, which use the clear spring waters flowing underground to produce their premium products. Learn the history of Japan's sake production while at the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, which includes tastings of the famous Gekkeikan sake brand. Next, we visit Kiyomizu Temple, also known as the Temple of Pure Water, a celebrated landmark famed for its iconic three-story pagoda and large wooden stage, and trio of sacred springs which each confers a different blessing. On the approach leading to the temple are Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka; these streets are filled with preserved buildings that retain the character of the Edo period. Many of the buildings sell souvenirs and Kyoto- specific wares. We stroll the Gion Geisha District, a heritage district where stone-paved streets are lined with exclusive ochaya (teahouses). While admiring the old- fashioned buildings, the fortunate visitor may spot Geisha or Maiko (Geisha apprentices) walking between these establishments. Finally, at Maruyama Park, we enjoy the seasonal Cherry Blossom Light-Up. Maruyama Park is one of Kyoto's top places to enjoy cherry blossoms, and features the beautiful Shidarezakura, or "Weeping Cherry" tree. In the evening, the pretty pink flowers are accented with bright illumination.

In the morning, we explore the shops at Nishiki Market. This narrow shopping street, commonly referred to as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' is filled with more than 100 restaurants and shops that sell all kinds of food-related items – from top-of-the-line knives and cookware to tempting seafood and produce. We go from there to tour Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site from Japan’s feudal era, and former residence of the Tokugawa shogun known for its beautifully preserved palace. While you walk around the stately Edo-period buildings, listen for the chirping of the “nightingale” floors. Next, we view one of Kyoto’s most coveted sights – the elegant Golden Pavilion. The temple’s shimmering golden walls can be seen reflected in the Mirror Pond below, but don’t miss the dainty phoenix ornament sitting on the roof! We then visit Kyoto's beautiful Arashiyama District. Enjoy the beauty of a local Bamboo Forest, which is one of Arashiyama's top must- see sights. The thick groves of towering green bamboo create a world of otherworldly awe and mystery as you walk the path through the center. We also explore the enchanting Kimono Forest, which is outside Arashiyama Station. Modeled after the local bamboo groves, the Kimono Forest features pillars containing many colors and patterns of Kimono cloth, for which the city of Kyoto is famous. We also take a stroll down the Togetsukyo Bridge which was originally built spanning the Hozu River hundreds of years ago. It’s now one of the best places to view the natural splendor of Arashiyama.

  After breakfast, our tour officially ends.

Say farewell to Kyoto's calm and refined atmosphere and the blend of history, nature, and traditional culture.

Your guide will be available to offer assistance and advice for your journey to the airport or onward travel in Japan