202710
TOHOKU TRAVEL'S "FULL of HIGHLIGHTS in MAY"
NOMBIRI "SUMO & SNOW WALL" JAPAN ALPS TOUR #10
Departure date: May 10 (Mon) 2027
Return date: May 22 (Sat) 2027
✈️ 13-Day Ground Tour – Pricing & Details
💰 Tour Cost (Land Only) $5,850.00 (Taxes included)
🏨 Single Supplement Add $650.00 (Taxes included)
✈️ Estimated Airfare
Business Class: Please call to submit for pricing.
6 Premium Economy: $2,700.00 (Taxes, Fuel Surcharges included)
20 Economy: $1,800.00 (Taxes, Fuel Surcharges included)
TOUR INCLUDES
・All land tour transportation included in the itinerary ・All hotel accommodations
・Daily breakfast, 9 lunch & 10 dinner (total 30 meals) including “Japanese Kaiseki Dinner” “Excellent Buffet” “Local cuisines of Central Japan” etc.
・Sightseeing listed ・All transfer of passenger and baggage ・Souvenir group picture
TOUR ITINERARY
MAY 10 (MON) HONOLULU,
Leave Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. A meal and a snack will be served aboard the flight. Free Movies and Drinks.
MAY 11 (TUE) ASAKUSA, TOKYO,
ASAKUSA VIEW HOTEL
Arrive at Haneda International Airport, where your exciting journey in Japan begins. After clearing government formalities, transfer by bus to your hotel in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic and beloved neighborhoods, with a rich history spanning over 1,400 years. We will stay two nights at a hotel conveniently located within easy walking distance of a supermarket and the lively Shitamachi shopping district, an area known for its nostalgic charm, retro buildings, and authentic local atmosphere. After hotel check-in, your tour guide will take you on a relaxing Holo Holo stroll around the hotel, giving you the chance to get familiar with the neighborhood, browse nearby supermarket, 24 hours open Don Quijote Discount shop, and enjoy your first taste of old Tokyo’s warm and welcoming spirit.
MAY 12 (WED) ASAKUSA, TOKYO,
ASAKUSA VIEW HOTEL
On this day, get ready for an unforgettable highlight of your journey as we attend one of Japan’s most thrilling and iconic sporting events, the Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament, also known as the Natsu Basho. Held at the historic Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena, this legendary venue is the heart of sumo culture and tradition. Feel the energy build as you step into the arena and witness the raw power, intense focus, and dramatic clashes of Japan’s national sport. From the elaborate pre-match rituals to the thunderous impact of each bout, every moment is filled with excitement and centuries-old tradition. This is a rare chance to immerse yourself in an authentic cultural spectacle that few travelers get to experience. To ensure an intimate and comfortable experience, participation in this special event is limited to just 26 guests. *Please note that while we intend to include this experience in the itinerary, the sumo portion is subject to change based on scheduling and availability.
MAY 13 (THU) LAKE KAWAGUCHI,
HOTEL REGINA KAWAGUCHIKO (ONSEN) ♨
This morning, we will visit Yokohama Wholesale Market, where you can shop for traditional Japanese food items such as tsukemono pickles, nori seaweed, umeboshi pickled plums, and more at wholesale prices. Afterward, we will enjoy shopping and lunch at The Outlets Shonan Hiratsuka. For lunch, you may choose from a variety of popular Japanese dishes, including tonkatsu, tonkotsu ramen, sashimi bowls, and other local favorites. Next, we will proceed to Lake Motosu, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, located at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Known as one of the best places to view Mt. Fuji up close, Lake Motosu offers breathtaking scenery. We will see a breathtaking scenery at Shibazakura Festival, where more than 520,000 bright pink, purple, and white moss phlox flowers blanket the vast park. With majestic Mt. Fuji as a backdrop, this colorful spring scenery creates a truly unforgettable sight. Later, we will head to Lake Kawaguchi, another of the Fuji Five Lakes and a popular resort area famous for its beautiful views of Mt. Fuji, Japan's iconic symbol. Your hotel 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.
MAY 14 (FRI) MATSUMOTO,
MATSUMOTO HOTEL KAGETSU
In the morning, we will visit beautiful Shosenkyo Gorge, often praised as “Japan’s most beautiful gorge.” You can enjoy a peaceful walk in the cool mountain air while admiring the spectacular scenery, including powerful streams, waterfalls, and many uniquely shaped rocks created by nature over time. At lunchtime, you will have a chance to taste delicious Châteraisé sweets. Châteraisé is one of Japan’s most popular confectionery chains and was founded here in Yamanashi. Today, we will have a lunch at hotel owned by Châteraisé. Then, we will proceed to Suntory Whisky Hakushu Distillery and visit its Whisky Museum. Through exhibits and videos, you can learn about “Hakushu” single malt whisky. This world-renowned whisky, born in a forest distillery surrounded by the mountains, has won numerous awards in international competitions. In the event of a temporary closure, we will visit another distillery. Afterward, we will continue to the tranquil old castle town of Matsumoto, nestled in the Japan Alps. Throughout the town, you can experience the atmosphere of traditional Japanese life and history. We will stay for two nights at a lovely hotel featuring Matsumoto’s traditional folk-craft furniture, offering a classic and charming atmosphere.
MAY 15 (SAT) MATSUMOTO,
MATSUMOTO HOTEL KAGETSU
With its long tradition in silk production, Japan was once at the forefront of the global silk industry and became the world’s leading exporter of silk in the early 20th century. We will visit the Silkfact Okaya Museum to learn about the history of Japan’s silk industry and how this area became one of the world's largest producing regions of silk thread. You can also observe silk-spinning machines that have remained almost unchanged since the golden age of silk production. Nagano is famous for Shinshu Miso, which is widely loved throughout Japan. We will enjoy a special lunch featuring delicious dishes made with locally produced miso. You will also see where Shinshu Miso is produced and have the opportunity to purchase some to take home. Then, we will visit the National Treasure Matsumoto Castle, Japan’s oldest existing original castle keep, completed in 1594. Those who wish may walk up inside the 430-year-old castle tower. You may also see wisteria and azaleas in bloom in the castle’s Japanese garden. After returning to the hotel, we can visit Nawate-dori Shopping Street, which is within walking distance. This charming street has the atmosphere of an old castle town and is lined with around 40 shops, including antique shops, candy stores, senbei shops, and more.
MAY 16 (SUN) SHINHOTAKA ONSEN,
HOTAKASO YAMANO HOTEL (ONSEN) ♨
We will visit Kametaya Sake Brewery, a historic brewery that has been producing specialty sake using water from the Japanese Alps since 1869. We will tour the 130-year-old main building and sample different types of sake, from sweet to dry. Then, we will go to Kamikochi Valley, the southern entrance of the Northern Japan Alps, surrounded by 10,000-foot mountains. This beautiful natural area is often compared to Yosemite Valley in California. We will pass by Taisho Pond, whose lovely mirror-like surface reflects the towering mountain peaks and the peaceful surrounding scenery. You can also cross the Kappa Suspension Bridge over the crystal-clear river water, offering picture-perfect postcard scenery of the Japan Alps. Later, we will visit Hirayu Grand Waterfall, known as one of Japan’s 100 most beautiful waterfalls and nestled in the heart of the Japan Alps. The view of this 210-foot-high waterfall is truly spectacular, and you can enjoy a pleasant nature walk through lush greenery to see its dynamic splashing water up close. Then, we will proceed to the secluded Okuhida Hot Spring Village and stay at a charming mountain resort hotel surrounded by beautiful forest scenery. It is the perfect opportunity to relax in an onsen hot spring bath and an open-air bath. This hotel is especially proud of its mixed-gender open-air onsen bath, located along a riverside mountain valley. Private onsen baths are available at your own expense.
MAY 17 (MON) TOYAMA,
TOYAMA EXCEL HOTEL TOKYU
Head to Toyama, nestled between spectacular mountain scenery and the picturesque Sea of Japan. We will visit the Owara Kaze-no Bon Dance Museum. This nationally known Bon dance is an enchanting folk festival held in a rustic town in Toyama. We will learn this elegant, graceful traditional dance, accompanied by unique, melancholic melodies passed down for over 300 years. Later, we will head to Toyama City, which was featured in The New York Times’ list of “52 Places to Go in 2025” as a destination where travelers can enjoy cultural wonders and culinary delights while avoiding the crowds. We will enjoy a lunch of Masu-zushi, pressed trout sushi, and a local specialty of Toyama Prefecture. Later, we will experience a Scenic canal cruise. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and historic townscapes of Toyama from the canal, including the Water Elevator, a special experience available only here in Japan. The 90-year-old Nakajima Lock is a Panama Canal-style lock with two sets of gates that control the water levels. We will also see the world’s most beautiful Starbucks during the cruise. We will stay two nights at a city hotel near Toyama Station, connected to a department store with a 100-yen shop. Enjoy shopping after hotel check-in!
MAY 18 (TUE) TOYAMA,
TOYAMA EXCEL HOTEL TOKYU
Today, immerse yourself in one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural wonders at the Snow Wall. Feel a sense of awe as we journey up Mt. Tateyama, which rises to 9,892 feet and is revered as one of Japan’s three sacred mountains for over 1,300 years. Our adventure continues to Murodo, Japan’s highest station at 8,038 feet, where nature reveals its most dramatic beauty in one of the snowiest regions on Earth. Travel through the awe-inspiring Snow Corridor, where towering walls of snow soar up to 52 feet high, forming a magnificent “Great Wall of Snow” that stretches skyward like a frozen masterpiece. Step out and walk alongside this incredible formation, even touching the Snow Wall for a truly unforgettable, once-a-year experience. Later, delight your senses at the Sasaraya Rice Cracker Shop, where time-honored techniques bring out the rich flavors of traditional Japanese snacks. Be sure to savor their signature White Shrimp Rice Cracker, a perfect harmony of sweet and savory, crafted from locally grown Toyama rice and rare white shrimp harvested from Toyama Bay.
MAY 19 (WED) GIFU,
MIYAKO HOTEL GIFU NAGARAGAWA
Visit the World Heritage site of the Historic Village of Shirakawa-go, one of Japan’s most enchanting hidden gems. Step into a storybook setting as you wander through this picturesque village, where traditional thatched-roof farmhouses are nestled among serene mountain landscapes. Shirakawa-go offers a truly magical glimpse into Japan’s timeless countryside, with every corner evoking the charm of a living fairy tale. Then, journey to Gujo Hachiman, a delightful town where you can try your hand at crafting your own Wax food sample. Known as the birthplace of Japan’s incredibly lifelike food replicas, this experience is both fun and fascinating. You’ll also have the chance to browse and purchase these amazingly realistic creations as unique souvenirs. Later, visit the Ukai Cormorant Fishing Museum, where you’ll be immersed in the rich history and traditions of Ukai cormorant fishing, a captivating practice that has been preserved for over 1,300 years. Through engaging exhibits, videos, and displays, discover the artistry and cultural significance behind this ancient technique. Tonight, unwind at a superb hotel set beside the scenic Nagara River. As evening falls, embark on a memorable boat ride for an up-close view of Ukai cormorant fishing in action. Witness this captivating centuries-old tradition as skilled fishermen, guided by flickering torchlight, work alongside trained cormorants to catch ayu, or sweetfish, beneath the night sky. So captivating is this centuries-old tradition that film legend Charlie Chaplin once praised it as “the finest art Japan has to offer.”
MAY 20 (THU) NAGOYA,
ANA CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL GRAND COURT NAGOYA
Head to Seki, a legendary blade-making city where the art of blacksmithing has been refined for over 800 years. We will visit Cutler Sanshu, known for producing exceptional kitchen knives using techniques rooted in the craftsmanship of Japan’s famed samurai swords. Here, you can browse beautifully crafted Seki knives, admired for their remarkable sharpness, durability, and balance, as well as fine scissors, garden tools, and other premium cutlery items. Then, journey to vibrant Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city, where historic treasures, rich traditions, and unforgettable local flavors come together. After savoring a delicious lunch featuring Nagoya’s local foods, we will visit the Arimatsu Shibori Tie-Dyeing Museum, a wonderful place to discover one of Japan’s most beautiful textile traditions. The intricate art of Arimatsu Shibori creates elegant patterns and vibrant designs often used for kimono fabric. Enjoy an English video introducing the delicate handmade process, then browse charming shops filled with kimonos, fabrics, bags, and unique dyed treasures. As you wander through the atmospheric streets of Arimatsu, lined with old merchant houses, shops, and warehouses, you will feel as though you have stepped back into the samurai era. We will stay two nights at a soaring tower hotel within easy walking distance of Kanayama Station, shopping malls, supermarkets, and more. After hotel check-in, your tour guides will take you to a nearby shopping area, perfect for relaxing, exploring, and finding local favorites.
MAY 21 (FRI) NAGOYA,
ANA CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL GRAND COURT NAGOYA
Today, we will journey to Nishio, renowned as the heart of Japan’s finest Matcha green tea production. Immerse yourself in the world of matcha at the Matcha Museum, where centuries-old traditions come to life. Discover the artistry behind this iconic tea, watch the meticulous production process, and savor the rich, velvety taste of freshly prepared matcha. Don’t miss the chance to browse the factory shop, filled with premium matcha and irresistible matcha-infused treats—perfect keepsakes to bring a taste of Japan home. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing break with shopping and lunch at Aeon Shopping Mall, offering a wide variety of shops and dining options. In the afternoon, step into the future at the Toyota Kaikan Museum, located beside the headquarters of Toyota, Japan’s world-famous automotive leader. Explore cutting-edge exhibits showcasing innovative environmental and safety technologies, and get up close to around 20 impressive Toyota and Lexus models, including the latest designs. The museum shop is a delight for enthusiasts, featuring an extensive collection of miniature cars, model kits, and unique automotive merchandise. After returning to the hotel, enjoy free time to unwind, explore nearby shops, or prepare for the next adventure. (Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense.)
MAY 22 (SAT) NAGOYA / HONOLULU
At checkout, our agent will come to tape and tie up your boxes, then assist with taking your baggage to be checked in downstairs. In the afternoon, we will transfer by bus to Chubu Centrair International Airport for our evening flight to Honolulu. After a memorable journey filled with unforgettable sights, cultural experiences, delicious flavors, and wonderful memories, we will arrive in Honolulu on Saturday, May 22, the same morning. After clearing U.S. Customs, proceed home with lasting memories of your time in Japan. (Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense.)
*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 or 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 contact our office for a price quote at your earliest convenience. Please refer to the Airline Questions segment of our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
✈️ Land Tour Payment & Cancellation Policy
💳 Land Tour Payment Policy
💰 Full Payment Due: 90 days before the tour start date
🧾 Deposit Policy
💵 Deposit Amount: $250.00 per person
🗓️ Due: Once the itinerary is posted on the Tohoku Travel website
📌 Terms:
❌ Non-refundable
🔄 Non-transferable
✅ Applied toward final payment
⚠️ Cancellation Fees (Per Person)
⏳ Time Before Tour
💸 Fee
90 to 30 days $1,500.00*
29 to 1 day $2,500.00*
* Deducted from total paid; remaining balance may be refunded.
🚫 NO REFUNDS once the tour starts
📎 Additional Notes
🏨 Hotel and ticket cancellations (🎟️ Miyako Odori, 🎢 Tokyo Disney Sea, 🚄 Shinkansen) may incur additional charges.
💱 If YEN has already been purchased, refunds may vary based on exchange rates at the time of return to USD.
📞 Contact Information
Tohoku Travel Services
📞 808-492-1122 | 📞 808-492-1123
📧 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
📞 +81-45-311-1011 | 📠 +81-45-311-1013
TOUR LUNCHEON:
DATE:
TIME: 11:00 am
LOCATION: STADIUM CAMELLIA RESTAURANT
ADDRESS: 4510 SALT LAKE BLVD HONOLULU, HAWAII 96818
PHONE NUMBER: 808-486-3311