Journey into the Land of the Rising Sun

Discover a country where ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity exist side by side. Our journey begins in the lively neighborhoods of Osaka and winds through Kyoto’s timeless temples, the poignant memorials of Hiroshima, the storybook charm of Miyajima, and the buzzing energy of Tokyo. Along the way, we’ll stroll through historic districts and bamboo forests, marvel at castles and shrines, ride the sleek Shinkansen, and taste everything from elegant kaiseki dinners to sizzling street food. This is more than a tour—it’s a chance to experience the spirit of Japan through its culture, history, cuisine, and people.

Itinerary

June 3 – Osaka  Arrive in Osaka and transfer to the Dotonbori district, known for its bright neon lights, bustling canals, and endless food stalls that have earned the city its reputation as Japan’s “kitchen.”

June 4 – Kyoto  Travel to Kyoto, the former imperial capital and heart of Japan’s traditional culture. Walk beneath the thousands of vermilion gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, admire the Zen gardens of Tenryuji and the towering bamboo of Arashiyama, ride the nostalgic Sagano Scenic Railway, and marvel at the golden splendor of Kinkakuji Temple. Cap the day with a welcome dinner. 

June 5 – Kyoto & Nara  Take a day trip to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, where you’ll see the monumental Great Buddha inside Todaiji Temple. Try your hand at a dango cooking class before returning to Kyoto to visit Sanjusangendo, a hall lined with 1,001 statues of Kannon. End the day with a tea ceremony.

June 6 – Kurashiki & Hiroshima  Board the train for Hiroshima, stopping en route at Kurashiki, famous for its preserved Bikan Old Town with Edo-period warehouses and canals. In Hiroshima, we recommend the city’s signature dish, okonomiyaki, for dinner.

June 7 – Miyajima Island  Reflect at Hiroshima’s Peace Museum and Park, then ferry to nearby Miyajima, long revered as a sacred island. Visit Itsukushima Shrine, with its torii gate appearing to float on the water, and explore the quiet temples of the forested slopes, including Daisho-in.

June 8 – Himeji & Nagoya  Ride the Shinkansen to Himeji to visit Japan’s most spectacular feudal fortress, Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Nagoya, where an evening street food tour introduces you to the city’s lively culinary scene.

June 9 – Nagoya & Tokyo  Spend the morning at the Toyota Commemorative Museum (subject to change), which traces the company’s roots from weaving looms to global auto making. Travel onward to Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, and experience the energy of Shibuya in the evening.

June 10 – Tokyo  Explore Tokyo’s contrasts: the forested Meiji Shrine, colorful Takeshita Dori youth fashion street, luxury boutiques of Ginza, and the lively temple district of Asakusa with Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Afterward, take in the nightlife on a guided tour of Shinjuku.

June 11 – Kamakura  Choose an optional excursion to Kamakura, a former shogunal capital filled with temples and history, or spend the day exploring Tokyo at your own pace before gathering together for a farewell dinner.

June 12 – Departure  Enjoy a free morning before transferring to the airport for your return flight to the United States.

This tour involves full days of sightseeing on foot, often over uneven surfaces, steps, and sloped paths at temples, shrines, and historic districts. Travelers will also navigate busy train stations and public transport. A moderate level of fitness and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

                                                         

JR Rail, taxi(s), ferry                                         English speaking guide(s)

Guided tours with all listed admissions

Geisha Performance -- $200

Not Included
Airfare, Travel Insurance, Additional Meals and Drinks, Souvenirs, Tips
For those wanting insurance, we recommend using Faye here. 

Standard Pricing  $4,200 per person, based on a shared room.
Single Supplement  Additional $1,000 for those requesting a single room.

Reservation Fee  $100 fee due to secure spot (included in total tour cost).
Deposit Due  $1,500 by November 1, 2025
Full Payment  Remainder due by February 1, 2026

Note: All guests are responsible for booking their own airfare, in order to best ensure their travel preferences and comfortability are met.  Once registration is closed, the museum will provide a recommended flight(s) or times in order to accommodate airport pick-up and drop-off.

For this trip, we recommend booking a multi-city flight (arrive at Osaka, depart from Tokyo).

This is more affordable than two one-way flights. Museum staff are happy to assist.

Questions?  Give us a call at (419) 994-4050 or email us.  We're happy to chat!

Terms and Conditions

1. While we do our best to follow the planned itinerary, schedules and activities are subject to change. Any adjustments will be made with care to ensure the best possible experience. 

2. A non-refundable reservation fee is required at time of registration. Reservation fees can be paid by credit card with no additional fee, however all remaining payments should be made by check, payable to CRF Museum, or be charged an additional 3% credit card processing fee.

3. Minimum of 12 guests required to fulfill trip. Spots will be booked in order of online registration and payment received. Guests will be notified if trip reaches minimum.

4. All guests are responsible for ensuring passport status and meeting all travel requirements. The CRF Museum and our travel partners cannot be held liable if your trip is impacted by health, legal, or other issues out of our control.

5. Cancellation, minus reservation fee, is only refundable up to the advertised deposit deadline. After the deadline all payments are non-refundable.  In the event of nationwide covid-19 lockdowns, natural disasters, war, etc. the CRF Museum reserves the right to cancel the entirety of the trip after this deadline. In the unlikely event of an emergency cancelation, the museum will refund the full amount possible according to agreements with our travel partners.

6. We encourage guests to purchase travel insurance or use a credit card with automatic coverage when purchasing airfare. CRF Museum and travel partners cannot be held liable for any loss of funds due to termination or changes to your trip.

7. Ensure your passport is valid!  If you need to renew or apply for a new one, visit here.

8. All guests are required to complete and sign a travel agreement and waiver release in order to participate in this tour. The travel agreement and waiver release will be sent following registration.