Explore Japan’s vibrant culture on a journey from modern Tokyo to historic Kyoto, scenic Kanazawa, and reflective Hiroshima. This trip blends Japan’s rich traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and dynamic urban energy, creating an unforgettable experience of discovery and beauty.
You are an active traveler who loves to see things up-close and personal. You aren’t bothered by standing or walking for long periods of time (1-2 hours) and you can navigate uneven surfaces and easily climb into and out of different kinds of vehicles or vessels. You can handle the rigors of exploring the world in a hands-on way, even if that means getting up early or staying up late!
NOTE: International return flights should be booked arriving in Tokyo with a departure from Hiroshima.
**Itinerary Subject to Change**
Individual arrivals into Tokyo. There are two international airports in Tokyo: Haneda & Narita. Haneda is the preferred airport as it’s much closer to the city center.
Transfer to the beautiful Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo.
Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant.
Dinner
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic two-hour drive to the stunning Mt. Fuji region. The first stop is Oishi Park, located on the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi. It offers breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and vibrant seasonal flowers—a perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty.
Next, visit Arakurayama Sengen Park, home to the iconic five-story pagoda and panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. This is the image often seen in Japan photos—it is featured in our promotional materials! Climb the steps for a postcard-perfect vista.
Lunch follows at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, explore Oshino Hakkai, a peaceful village with crystal-clear ponds fed by Mt. Fuji’s melting snow. Stroll through traditional gardens and take in the serene reflections of Mt. Fuji in this historic and tranquil setting.
As the day winds down, return to Tokyo, where the evening is yours, to relax and enjoy yourself at your own pace.
Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
Begin the day at Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple, featuring the iconic Kaminarimon Gate. Walk through the bustling approach to take in the history and significance of this landmark.
Next, head to Nakamise Shopping Street, a lively market leading to the temple. Explore stalls offering traditional souvenirs, snacks, and local treats.
Later, join a demonstration with retired sumo wrestlers. Watch them perform traditional sumo moves and enjoy lunch with tonkatsu and chanko-nabe, a classic sumo stew.
In the afternoon, visit TeamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum with interactive exhibits and light displays.
Return to the hotel to relax or explore nearby—dinner this evening at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
Start the day with an authentic sushi-making class led by a veteran chef. Learn fish handling and sushi techniques, and participate in a wasabi tasting. After a tamagoyaki demonstration, compare your sushi with the chef’s and receive a certificate of completion.
Next, visit Tsukiji Market, Tokyo’s historic seafood hub, known for its fresh seafood and vibrant food stalls. Explore the market’s lively atmosphere and experience local culture firsthand.
In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Palace East Garden, a peaceful, landscaped park offering a glimpse into Japan’s history. Stroll through the grounds and historic ruins and enjoy views of the former palace.
After the day’s activities, return to the hotel to unwind. The evening is free to relax or explore nearby—dinner on your own.
Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
After breakfast, depart Tokyo on the Bullet Train Kagayaki toward Kanazawa. Upon arrival, begin exploring this historic city.
First, visit the Kanazawa Castle Ruins, where you can see the remains of the fortress and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding park.
Next, stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most renowned landscape gardens. It features seasonal displays, tranquil ponds, and elegant design.
After a day of sightseeing, check-in at the Kanazawa Sainoniwa Hotel, located in the heart of the city. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore at your own pace.
Dinner tonight at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Kanazawa Sainoniwa Hotel
Start the day at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, known for its innovative exhibitions and striking architecture. Explore diverse contemporary artworks and interactive installations in a creative setting.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Kanazawa’s culinary offerings.
Next, visit the Nagamachi Samurai District to explore well-preserved samurai residences and traditional streets, offering a glimpse into Kanazawa’s samurai history.
In the afternoon, visit the Higashi Chaya District, a historic geisha area with traditional teahouses and preserved wooden architecture. Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural heritage.
Return to the hotel to relax for the evening at your leisure.
Breakfast & Lunch
Kanazawa Sainoniwa Hotel
Depart Kanazawa on the Bullet Train Tsurugi, with a brief transfer at Tsuruga Station to the Bullet Train Thunderbird, arriving in Kyoto. Lunch will be provided on the train.
Upon arrival, drop off your luggage at the Dhawa Yura Kyoto Hotel and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure to explore or relax.
In the evening, gather in the hotel lobby for transportation to a traditional Japanese restaurant for a private Maiko dinner. The dinner will feature an authentic dance performance, and you will have an opportunity to interact with the performers.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Dhawa Yura Kyoto Hotel
Begin the day at Kiyomizu Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning wooden stage, historic architecture, and breathtaking views of Kyoto. This sacred place offers a glimpse into the city’s spiritual heart.
Next, stroll through the charming Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Streets, famous for their traditional wooden buildings, quaint shops, and cafes that capture the essence of old Kyoto.
Experience mindfulness at a secluded Zen temple. Guided by expert Zen practitioners, explore enchanting gardens and learn the principles of Buddhism. Practice Zazen meditation with a Zen priest and enjoy a conversation with monks over a traditional Shojin Ryori vegetarian meal, blending spiritual insight with culinary richness.
After a day of exploration, return to the hotel to unwind. The evening is free for relaxation or further exploration of the city. Dinner is on your own.
Breakfast & Lunch
Dhawa Yura Kyoto Hotel
Begin the day at Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, celebrated for its gold-leaf exterior and serene reflection in the pond.
Next, explore Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere.
Enjoy a traditional Shojin Ryori vegetarian lunch at Shigetsu, a Tenryu-ji restaurant featuring thoughtfully prepared dishes.
Afterward, take a stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, an enchanting forest filled with towering bamboo stalks.
As the day winds down, return to the hotel to relax or venture out to explore Kyoto.
Enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Dhawa Yura Kyoto Hotel
Start the day at Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, which create a stunning path up Mount Inari. Walking through the gates offers breathtaking views and insight into the shrine’s rich cultural history.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Kyoto’s cuisine.
Next, participate in a traditional tea ceremony at Kodaiji Temple, which is closed to the public. Follow a narrow, stone-paved path to the Korin-in pagoda, featuring its unique round window design. The exclusive atmosphere makes this tea ceremony a special experience.
In the afternoon, explore Nijo Castle, a historic landmark known for its elegant architecture, beautiful gardens, and intricate interiors. Walk on the famous ‘nightingale floors,’ which chirp when stepped upon, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
You are free to enjoy the evening at your leisure, including dinner.
Breakfast & Lunch
Dhawa Yura Kyoto Hotel
Depart Kyoto on the Bullet Train Nozomi, heading to Hiroshima to explore this historic city.
Upon arrival, embark on a sightseeing tour, starting with Hiroshima Castle, known for its impressive reconstruction and beautiful grounds. Explore the castle’s traditional architecture while learning about its history as a military stronghold and its destruction during World War II.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Hiroshima’s cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a significant site dedicated to promoting peace and honoring the victims of the atomic bombing. The park features the Atomic Bomb Dome, preserved in its bombed state, along with various memorials and museums that offer deep insights into the bombing’s impact and the city’s remarkable resilience.
Arrive at Hilton Hiroshima, check-in, and unwind. The evening is yours to enjoy, whether relaxing in the hotel or exploring the city. Dinner is on your own.
Breakfast & Lunch
Hilton Hiroshima
Begin the day with a 30-minute drive to Miyajimaguchi Ferry Port for a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island. Enjoy breathtaking views, including the iconic floating torii gate, as we approach.
Explore picturesque landscapes and historic sites on foot on the island. Our first stop is Senjokaku Hall, known for its vast, open interior and traditional design. It offers insight into the island’s architectural heritage.
Next, admire the Five-Story Pagoda, an elegant structure symbolizing spiritual harmony and historical significance. Its beautifully detailed tiers and serene setting are highlights of our visit.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Miyajima.
In the afternoon, discover Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate and stunning seaside location. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, its unique design appears to float on water during high tide, creating a picturesque and spiritual experience.
Catch the ferry back to the mainland, soaking in Miyajima’s scenic journey and views. Upon returning to the hotel, unwind and relax for the evening, reflecting on the day’s exploration.
Gather for our final meal together.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hilton Hiroshima
Today, head to the airport for your flights home, taking with you cherished memories from this unforgettable adventure.
Breakfast
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo is a luxurious urban retreat set within a stunning, historic Japanese garden. Known for its elegant accommodations, world-class dining, and serene atmosphere, the hotel offers a peaceful escape in the heart of Tokyo. Guests can enjoy the seasonal beauty of the garden, traditional tea ceremonies, and the hotel’s spa, creating a perfect balance of relaxation and sophistication.
Room Category: Deluxe Room
Kanazawa Sainoniwa Hotel is a tranquil retreat that offers a blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese aesthetics. Surrounded by lush gardens, it provides a serene atmosphere for relaxation, with spacious, well-appointed rooms and warm hospitality. Conveniently located near Kanazawa’s key attractions, the hotel features onsen-style baths, offering guests a peaceful escape after a day of exploring the historic city.
Room Category: Comfort Deluxe
Dhawa Yura Kyoto Hotel offers a contemporary stay with a touch of Kyoto’s traditional charm. Located near the iconic Sanjo Bridge, it provides easy access to the city’s historic and cultural sites. The hotel’s stylish rooms are designed for comfort, blending modern amenities with subtle Japanese elements, making it an ideal base for exploring Kyoto’s timeless beauty.
Room Category: Premium Room
Dates:
November 1-13, 2025
Cost:
12-night package: $13,550 per person double occupancy; $15,995 single occupancy
Unless otherwise noted, all participants on a WOW! trip must be at least 18 years old at the time of travel.
Payment Schedule:
Space is limited. Reservations will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation:
Penalties vary depending on the date of cancellation:
* We will do all possible to resell your space should you cancel. If we are successful, we will refund you in full, less $875 per person.
Air Transportation:
You may make your own flight arrangements, or we can assist with a $75 per person service fee (waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni). We cannot book mileage tickets or upgrades, which must be done directly with the carrier. If you would like us to assist, contact Gabriel Haigazian (gabriel@wowtravelclub.com or 818-444-2700) or Howard Wise (howard@wowtravelclub.com or 818-444-2710). It is the traveler’s responsibility to provide the legal name on the passport. Carriers may deny boarding if the name on the ticket does not EXACTLY match the name on the passport.
Supplemental Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation / Interruption:
Your package includes basic trip insurance:
Additional trip cancellation insurance is available for purchase to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Travelers may insure all prepaid and nonrefundable payments against cancellation and interruption due to covered reasons. Note that fear of travel is not covered under these policies. Certain plans include coverage for Pre-Existing Medical conditions, financial default, “Cancel for Work Reasons,” and “Cancellation for Any Reason.” Coverage varies by product. Please note that most insurance companies require you to purchase insurance within 14 days of the initial deposit date to be covered for pre-existing conditions.
For further information and purchase options, click HERE to learn about Travel Guard plans. Alternatively, contact Travel Guard Insurance directly at (800) 826-1300, ext. 3, and speak with an agent. Please provide Agency Code #05-614836.
MedJet Assist – Air Medical Travel Protection Membership
MedJet Assist provides and pays for a member’s hospital-to-hospital medical transfer if injury or illness occurs during domestic or international travel more than 150 miles from home. Unlike most travel insurance, a MedJet Assist member is transferred to their home hospital of choice, regardless of medical necessity. There are no “acceptable facility” clauses, claim forms, cost caps, or surprise bills after the transport.
MedJet Assist complements travel insurance, so it’s recommended that you purchase both. Here’s a great 2-minute video explaining the coverage and how it differs from travel insurance. Click HERE to view the video.
Short-term or annual memberships are available. Click HERE for pricing and to enroll:
For those of you 75-84 years of age, you’ll need to call MedJet Assist to enroll at 800-527-7478
Pricing:
All prices quoted are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect as of October 15, 2024, and are subject to change. Rates are based on a minimum group size of 14 paying guests. Should the group size(s) fall below this minimum number, package price or inclusions may be modified.
Unused tour items, missed meals or activities, etc., are not refundable.
Tips and Taxes:
The package includes all service charges, taxes, entrance fees, etc. Basic gratuities to drivers, guides, and porters are included. You are welcome to extend additional gratuities to anyone who has provided exemplary service.
Baggage:
Please check applicable baggage allowances and fees with your international airline carrier. Overweight luggage and/or additional checked bags can be purchased directly from the airlines.
Passport/Visa:
You must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of re-entry to your home country. Currently, Japan does not require a visa for US passport holders.
Health / Vaccinations:
At present, Japan does not require any specific vaccinations. You may wish to consult your physician for recommendations. Additional information is available on the CDC website for Japan.
Travel Documents:
Final travel documents will be sent to your mailing address approximately two weeks before departure.
Risks of Travel and Your Responsibilities:
International travel involves inherent risks. The CTP Group/WOW! Travel Club (CTP/WOW) cannot be liable for any injury, death, or loss of personal property in connection with your participation in CTP/WOW activities. By participating in this CTP/WOW travel program, you assume the risk of inherent dangers (including, without limitation, annoyance and expenses) related to military or political action, civil disturbances, quarantine, strikes, detention, mental trauma, pilferage, weather, epidemiological events, acts of God or any other circumstances over which CTP/WOW has no control.
I understand that CTP/WOW reserves the right to refuse as a trip participant or remove from a trip any person it judges to be incapable of meeting the rigors and requirements of participating in activities or who it determines to detract from the enjoyment of the trip by others. I agree to follow all written and verbal rules of safety presented to me by CTP/WOW. CTP/WOW reserves the right to make route, hotel, itinerary and trip modifications as required or desirable to improve the trip quality and/or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests.
CTP/WOW reserves the right to alter or cancel any trip due to weather, sickness, political climate, and/or insufficient registration or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. While CTP/WOW will make every effort to obtain full or partial refunds from suppliers, CTP/ WOW cannot guarantee your ability to recoup payment.
The above Terms and Conditions are hereby expressly incorporated into the “Release, Waiver, and Indemnity Agreement” to be signed by you as a WOW! Travel Club participant.
WOW! Vows:
All guests will be asked to sign and agree to the WOW! Vows for responsible travel:
Consent:
Payment of the deposit OR any other partial payment for registration of a participant for CTP/ WOW activities constitutes consent by all guests/participants registered by the party completing online registration. You and your guests/participants hereby agree to the Terms & Conditions of this website. The Terms & Conditions set forth on this website may not be modified or amended except in writing by an authorized officer of CTP/WOW.
All guests/participants are required to initial and sign a Release Waiver and Indemnity Agreement, which will be sent upon receipt of your deposit. Your final payment cannot be processed until you return the signed Release. Travelers cannot join the program without a signed Release, and payments made will not be refunded for refusal to sign.
Please note: This trip includes full sightseeing days and significant walking on stairs and uneven surfaces. You should be in good physical condition to take this journey to its fullest.
October 2024 CST # 1016440-10
What will the weather be like?
In November, the weather in Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Hiroshima is generally cool and pleasant, making it an ideal time for sightseeing.
Tokyo: Temperatures range from 50°F to 63°F, with crisp, sunny days and less humidity.
Kanazawa: Slightly cooler, with temperatures between 45°F to 59°F, and occasional rain due to its coastal location.
Kyoto: Mild weather, ranging from 46°F to 63°F, with beautiful autumn foliage peaking in mid to late November.
Hiroshima: Temperatures range from 50°F to 64°F, with comfortable conditions and occasional clear skies.
What should I wear?
Pack lightweight clothes and a light jacket or sweater. Cool and casual are the operative words here! Be sure to pack comfortable shoes. Layers are always a good idea; you should bring an umbrella just in case.
Do I need to get any vaccinations?
Nothing specific is required, but you should be up-to-date with all routine vaccinations. Consult the Center for Disease Control website for current recommendations For travel to Japan. Check with your physician at least 30-60 days before travel.
Are there any special requirements/documents I need to visit Japan?
No, just your passport. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel date to Japan.
What about airfare?
International airfare is not included in the package. We can assist with reservations for a service fee of $75 per person. (Service fee is waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni.)
Will I need an adapter to plug in my appliances and chargers?
In Japan, like in the United States, power sockets (outlets) are of type A and B. You need a power plug adapter for sockets type A. Sockets type B can fit your plugs but may not always be available locally. Always pack a 3-to-2 prong adapter to fit your plugs B into sockets type A. Please note that a US hairdryer should not be used even with an adapter. All hotels will have hairdryers available.
Can I use my cell phone in Japan?
With most providers, activating an international data and telephone plan is best. We suggest you contact your carrier to discuss potential data and voice communications costs.
What is the currency?
The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen, abbreviated as JPY or represented by the symbol ¥. Banknotes come in denominations of ¥1,000, ¥2,000, ¥5,000, and ¥10,000, while coins are available in ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, and ¥500. As of this posting (September 2024), the exchange rate is 149 JPY to one USD. For reference, a glass of beer at a cafe is 500-800 JPY or $3.50-$5.63. A great way to figure out prices while you travel is to install an exchange app on your phone – we recommend My Currency Converter (it’s free to install). Click HERE for the current exchange rate.
Of course, Visa and Mastercard credit cards (many merchants do not accept Amex) are widely accepted. Bank-associated ATMs are available and generally charge a better exchange rate than an exchange office.
What about travel insurance?
We recommend insurance to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Information will be provided upon receipt of the deposit. Here are links to two travel insurance providers: Travel Guard and MedJet.
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