TOUR ITINERARY
04 DEC (THU) HONOLULU
Departing Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Japan Airline Flight. A meal and snack will be served aboard the flight. Free Movies and Drinks.
05 DEC (FRI) KAWASAKI,
HOTEL METROPOLITAN KAWASAKI
Arrive at Haneda International Airport and after entry formalities, proceed by bus to our hotel in Kawasaki. Kawasaki city is the 3rd largest city in the Tokyo metropolitan area. We will stay 3 nights at hotel in very convenient location. Easy walking distance to Kawasaki rail station and shopping complexes including the huge Lazona Shopping mall with over 300 shops and restaurants.
06 DEC (SAT) KAWASAKI,
HOTEL METROPOLITAN KAWASAKI
Go to Kamakura, seat of “Shogun” in Kamakura period (1185~1333). This historical and picturesque town retains traces of turbulent medieval Japan. Japan’s first military government was established in here and its long and illustrious history reflected in its architectural legacy in shrines and temples. We will visit Kamakura’s most important and significant shrine Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. It became the center of politics and culture during the Kamakura Period. It will be in season of the fabulous Autumn colors. Red and yellow-colored trees blend remarkably with the shrine buildings making it pure soul-nurturing beauty. Later enjoy leisurely strolling on Komachi Street lined with Japanese-style sweet shops, Traditional souvenir shops, etc., unique to the ancient city with an old historic atmosphere. Then go to see a National Treasure Great Buddha of Kamakura, Japan’s second largest 43.8 feet tall a monumental bronze Buddha statue was cast in the year 1252. This awe-inspiring Buddha has been the symbol of Kamakura.
07 DEC (SUN) KAWASAKI - KAMAKURA,
HOTEL METROPOLITAN KAWASAKI
Enjoy driving around Tokyo to see the brilliant fall colors scenery in World’s most populous metropolitan area. First, we will drive by Meiji shrine Outer Precinct, the most beautiful Autumn foliage spot in Central Tokyo. If timing is right, the rows of uniquely trimmed Ginkgo trees turn into stunning golden color. Then drive to National Diet Building the road leading to the building is another famous spot has a superb view of beautiful Autumn foliage of Ginkgo trees. Then proceed to Toyosu, home of Tokyo's largest wholesale market. We will visit Tokyo’s new attraction opened in 2024 Senkyaku Banrai, a very unique shopping and entertainment facility designed with rich inspiration from the town scape of olden time Tokyo, Edo period (1603-1868). You will immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Edo while enjoying a wide variety of retail stores that make use of the fresh seafood and ingredient from the adjacent Toyosu Market. Later visit Tokyo Tower, the famous red and white colored tower is the defining image of Tokyo. This 1,092 feet tall tower is one of Tokyo’s most iconic structures and remains a beloved symbol of the capital for 67 years. We will go up to observation deck which provides extensive views across Tokyo. Later visit Zojoji temple, originally built in 1393 and was the family temple of Tokugawa Shoguns that ruled Japan in the Edo period for 265 years. This beautiful and peaceful temple’s massive main building with symbolic Tokyo Tower in the background makes for postcard like pictures. In the evening, you can enjoy Yokohama Night View tour. The city transforms into a light up magical winter wonderland by beautiful illuminations.
08 DEC (MON) HACHIOJI,
KEIO PLAZA HOTEL HACHIOJI
Visit Ameyoko, “1 of Japan’s Most Popular Shopping Streets.” filled with over 400 shops dealing discounts on all kinds of items that includes seafood, sweets, T-shirts, snacks, etc. After enjoy big shopping, visit Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, an outdoor museum preserving Twenty five traditional Japanese houses which were relocated to here from all over Japan. You will see traditional farmhouses, samurai houses, merchant houses, houses from post towns, homes from fishing villages and a kabuki stage. All are set in a beautiful landscape. You will feel like you are taking a trip back in olden times in Japan while walking. Later visit Tokyo’s largest amusement park Yomiuri Land to see its popular "Jewellumination (named after Jewel and Illumination)" which is the largest illumination festival in Kanto region. Everywhere in this amusement park has been lit up by 6.5 million lights. Those beautiful winter landscape lights sparkle like a thousand jewels. Then proceed to Hachioji in West Tokyo. Hachioji rail station and shopping area are only short walk from the hotel. Tour guides will take you Holo Holo to shopping area after hotel check in.
09 DEC (TUE) LAKE KAWAGUCHI,
HOTEL REGINA KAWAGUCHIKO (ONSEN) ♨
Go to Mt. Takao, specified for the maximum of 3-star sightseeing spot in Japan by French travel guidebook for its magnificent beauty. We will ride the Japan’s steepest Cable Car at 889 feet difference of elevation. On a clear day you can observe a superb view of Kanto plain, skyscrapers of downtown Tokyo, etc., from the midway point of the mountain. Later visit Saru-hashi (Monkey bridge), 1 of 3 most famous ancient bridges in Japan, designated as National Place of Scenic Beauty. This bridge keeps its original form made by layering bridge girders without using any pier. Legend tells of a story in which the bridge was constructed after witnessing monkeys bridged the chasm with their bodies to cross the ravine in 1,400 years ago. Then visit Maglev Exhibition Center. The world’s fastest bullet train at 374 MPH based on Maglev technology will start operation in 2034. We will learn about superconductive linear mechanisms in detail. Then head to Lake Kawaguchi, attracting the world's attention because of the honor of World’s #10 of “2024’s Most Welcoming Cities on Earth” chosen by Booking.com. If weather is clear, we can be blessed with amazing views of Mt. Fuji up close. We will stay 2 nights at hotel which is located at the foot of Mt. Fuji, with the picture window of all the room facing it. It will be a good chance to enjoy a relaxing soak in Onsen Hot Spring bath. And enjoy Traditional Japanese Kaiseki Dinner in the evening.
10 DEC (WED) LAKE KAWAGUCHI,
HOTEL REGINA KAWAGUCHIKO (ONSEN) ♨
In the morning we will visit Herb Garden Tabi-nikki to take a stroll around the peaceful botanical garden with herbal flowers in bloom. You will be able to enjoy tasting herb tea and shopping for many herb products such as natural and organic cosmetics, hand cream, soap, etc. The rites of winter in Yamanashi prefecture are making elaborate traditional "Dried Persimmons." We will see photogenic Dried persimmons hanging from farmhouses eaves here you can purchase this Japanese delicacy in winter. Shingen Mochi is one of the most famous sweets in Yamanashi and a staple souvenir product famous across Japan. We can purchase it at Factory shop of Kikyoya, which is a well-established confectionery company with 130-year history. They won many awards and loved by many foreign travelers as “Best souvenir sweets in Japan.” In the evening for those who wish we will take you to Lake Yamanaka Art Illumination Festival to see about 100 different illumination displays over vast grounds in a warm scene of lights. After going back to hotel, enjoy relaxing soak in Onsen Hot Spring bath.
11 DEC (THU) NIHONDAIRA PLATEAU,
NIPPONDAIRA HOTEL
Visit Chichibunomiya Memorial Park surrounded by rich nature. Originally was Gotemba imperial villa where former Prince and Princess stayed during and after World War II. You can stroll around the lovely garden with Autumn leaves from which Mt. Fuji can be seen on clear days. Then we will head to Izu and enjoy its popular seasonal attraction Mikan Tangerine picking. "Izu Mikan Tangerine" has the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Taste the most popular winter fruit in Japan! Later visit Japan’s longest pedestrian only suspension bridge at 1,312 feet long “Mishima Skywalk.” Here you can see “3 of Japan’s Bests” at once. The bridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan, Mt. Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan and Suruga Bay is the deepest bay in Japan. We will stay 2 nights at Deluxe Resort hotel located on the top of Nihondaira Plateau which is No. 1 in the "Plains" category of the list of Japan's top 100 sightseeing destinations because of the best view of Mt. Fuji. You will have a large picture window in your room that faces Mt. Fuji, you can enjoy beautiful view of Mt. Fuji even while laying down on bed (wishing good weather!)
12 DEC (FRI) NIHONDAIRA PLATEAU,
NIPPONDAIRA HOTEL
We will ride a Nihondaira Rope way to go up to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine which is the original burial place of the founder and the first Shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu who has been gaining world attention because of an American historical drama television series “Shogun”. Its main character Yoshii Toranaga is modeled after Tokugawa Ieyasu. (There are a lot of cobble stone steps to the main shrine and around the Rope way station. Please use the handrail.) Shizuoka prefecture is widely known as the “Green tea capital” which is responsible for over 40% of Japan’s tea production. We will visit Japanese tea factory where you can purchase famous Shizuoka green teas including a "Deep-steamed Green Tea" which is said to be "Taste better than other types of Japanese Green Tea." Shizuoka is also famous as the top Wasabi producing region. We will visit Wasabi store to enjoy shopping for Wasabi products from many varieties. Wasabi is indispensable condiment for Japanese Cuisine and called “Flavor of Japan.” In particular, Shizuoka Wasabi has a reputation for being the highest quality Wasabi in Japan.
13 DEC (SAT) GOTEMBA,
GOTEMBA KOGEN HOTEL (ONSEN) ♨
Go to Traditional Hand Craft Arts Center to enjoy Traditional Indigo Dyeing experience. You can make your own unique handkerchief using traditional techniques with your own design. It will be good souvenir to take back to home. Later we will visit World Heritage Site Shiraito (White Thread) Falls that is designated as National Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Treasure of Japan. The 492 feet wide cascade is fed by glassy snowmelt water from Mt. Fuji and flows off the edge of a 66 feet high arc-shaped cliff. Hundreds of thin white waterfall that looks like white silk threads from the lava wall. Then proceed to Gotemba, offers numerous stunning spots to take in the majestic view of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. We will stop at Shrimp Senbei Chips store where you can sample an astonishing variety of flavor allowing you to choose your favorite flavors to purchase. You will be able to bring back fresh chips that is a popular local souvenir of Gotemba. We will stay at popular resort hotel which is located in Gotemba highlands resort complex. In the evening you can enjoy a spectacular Night Illumination featuring 5.5 million lights in 1,500 feet long tunnel. Experience this fascinating display of lights in winter atmosphere. You can also enjoy relaxing soak at Onsen Hot Spring bath.
14 DEC (SUN) YOKOHAMA,
YOKOHAMA BAY SHERATON HOTEL & TOWERS
Today we will head to Hakone an internationally well-known as Japan’s most popular onsen resort with many leisure activities and beautiful views of Mt. Fuji. We will enjoy tranquilizing Sightseeing Cruise on a serene Lake Ashi surrounded by beautiful mountains. You will see the best views of the lake in combination with Mt. Fuji can be seen by cruise ship. Then go to Odawara originally developed as a castle town in the 16th century and still remains a culture and traditional atmosphere of the old days in Japan. We will visit the newly opened Totoco Odawara, a popular shopping complex carrying local seafood, processed marine products, etc. Enjoy shopping for souvenirs that represent Odawara’s prosperous days as a castle town during the Edo period. Later head to Yokohama, 2nd largest city in Japan. We will visit Japanese Overseas Migration Museum. You can learn about the history of Japanese emigration with displays showing pictures, documents, daily life tools, etc., of Japanese people emigrating overseas including Hawaii. Many exhibits tell you the story of Japanese who left their homeland to settle in foreign countries. You will learn more about their past, the daily lives, how they lived and worked, the reasons for emigration, the struggles, the growth, and development in new country, their impact and their descendants' impact throughout the world, why there are fairly large Japanese communities in Hawaii. It is particular important museum for those who have Japanese background. We will stay 2 nights at hotel which is connecting to underground shopping mall and within easy walking distance to department stores, big electronics store, 100 Yen shop, etc. After hotel check-in, tour guide will take you Holo Holo around the hotel.
15 DEC (MON) YOKOHAMA,
YOKOHAMA BAY SHERATON HOTEL & TOWERS
This morning we will visit Yokohama Wholesale Market to buy Japanese traditional foods such as Tsukemono pickles, Umeboshi, etc., at wholesale price. Later, enjoy lunch and another big shopping at World Porters Shopping Mall with about 150 unique shops and restaurants under the concept of "Many different worlds are here. " There is also a Hawaiian theme area with Japan’s first “Leonard's Malasada.” Later drive through Yamashita Park Avenue hopefully timing is right as the streets will be golden carpet of ginkgo leaves. We will experience the Sea Bass Ocean bus. Sailing round the Yokohama bay and enjoying a fresh ocean breeze is a very pleasant way to view Yokohama’s most famous landmarks. You will get a chance to visit Christmas Market in Yokohama held at Red Brick Warehouse area which is one of Yokohama's most popular sightseeing spots. The market features a range of stalls carrying foods, drinks and candies, as well as festive treats. The entire area will be in Christmas atmosphere and a massive Christmas tree decked out in flashy decorations is a perfect spot for photography. After going back to the hotel, Free Time to continue shopping, packing etc. (Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense)
16 DEC (TUE) YOKOHAMA / HONOLULU
At checkout time our agents will come to tape and tie-up the boxes and take the baggage to be checked-in down. We will proceed by bus to Haneda International Airport to catch Japan Airline Flight #74 departing at 9:00 P.M. Upon arrival we will check in for our international flight to Honolulu. Arrive in Honolulu the same day 16 DEC (TUE) After clearing U.S. Customs, proceed home. (Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense.)
Clients remaining back will be assisted in obtaining plane, train, and hotel reservations. Members may return to Honolulu individually, but no later than 90 days from day of departure. Weekend returns will cost more per person. Please call our office if you are extending your stay. MAHALO!
*Price, Itinerary, and Meals are subject to change without notice.*
*** TOUR CONDITIONS ***
INCLUDES: Land Transportation included in the itinerary, all hotel accommodations, meals, sightseeing listed, all transfer of passenger and baggage, and souvenir group picture.
DOES NOT INCLUDE: Individual expenses after tour termination as stated in the itinerary—the cost of obtaining all personal items, passport/visa, and other necessary documents.
AIR: JAL's TFS (Fuel Surcharge) determines the final price for the group economy booking. For premium economy, business, and outer-island bookings, please don't hesitate to contact our office for a price quote whenever you can. For more information, please refer to the Airline Questions segment of our Frequently Asked Questions.
LAND TOUR CANCELLATION POLICY PER PERSON:
DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE. Once the tour itinerary is posted on the Tohoku Travel website, a $250.00 per person is required. This deposit will be applied to the full payment.
90 DAYS - 30 DAYS --- $1,500.00*
29 DAYS - 01 DAYS --- $2,500.00*
NO REFUND ONCE THE TOUR STARTS
*There may be Hotel cancellation charges along with the preordered event tickets for Miyako Odori show tickets, Tokyo Disney Sea tickets, Shinkansen ticket fees, etc. If the yen has already been purchased to pay for this tour, then the yen exchange rate at the time of refund will affect the refund since we have to convert the yen back to U.S. dollars again.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL TOHOKU TRAVEL SERVICES
PH: 808-536-8618 or 808-538-7854
EMAIL: tohoku.travel.hi@gmail.com
JAPAN TOUR ARRANGED & GUIDED BY: YOKOHAMA TRAVEL, INC.
ITO BLDG. #502; 2-22-3 TSURUYA-CHO KANAGAWA-KU, YOKOHAMA 221-0835, JAPAN
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