Best of Japan: Active Golden Route Adventure

Welcome to Japan! After arriving at the airport, an airport assistant will meet you in the arrival area. After check-in at your accommodation, spend the rest of the day at your leisure.

Travel to Kawaguchiko by highway bus in the morning and enjoy a scenic journey toward Mount Fuji’s iconic lake region. Upon arrival, drop off your luggage at your hotel before meeting your cycling guide to begin your adventure. 

Set off on a refreshing cycling tour around Lake Kawaguchi, soaking in breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. First, visit Oishi Park, famous for its seasonal flower displays that beautifully frame Japan’s most iconic mountain. Continue to Iyashi-no-Sato, a traditional craft village lined with charming thatched-roof houses. Experience the local culture by exploring artisan workshops, trying hands-on experiences, and purchasing unique handicrafts.

After an active day, return to your hotel and unwind with a relaxing soak in an onsen, letting the soothing natural hot springs refresh your body and mind.

Start your day with a scenic highway bus ride from your hotel in Kawaguchiko to Kofu Station, enjoying the picturesque landscapes of Yamanashi Prefecture. Upon arrival, transfer to an express train to Matsumoto, a charming city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Once you reach Matsumoto Station, drop off your luggage at your hotel before heading out to explore the town.

The highlight of your visit is Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved original castles. Wander through its historic wooden interiors, climb the ancient staircases, and take panoramic views of the city and surrounding Alps from the top floor.

After exploring the castle, take a moment to stroll through the charming streets of Matsumoto, where traditional shops, local cafés, and cultural spots offer a perfect blend of history and modern charm.

Enjoy a free day to explore Matsumoto on your own. For a breathtaking outdoor experience, take a day trip to Kamikochi, a stunning alpine valley in the Japanese Alps. 

Take a public bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi, where you will be surrounded by majestic mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests. Known as one of Japan’s most scenic hiking destinations, Kamikochi offers well-maintained trails for all levels. Walk along the Azusa River, cross the iconic Kappa Bridge, and take in the spectacular views of Mt. Hotaka and Mt. Yakedake.

Breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the serene beauty of untouched nature. Watch out for local wildlife, such as Japanese macaques and wild birds. Whether you choose a short nature walk or a longer hike, Kamikochi promises an unforgettable escape into Japan’s pristine wilderness before you return to Matsumoto by bus.

After breakfast, travel to Takayama by highway bus from Matsumoto, enjoying a scenic 2.5-hour ride through the Japanese Alps. Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a half-day tour exploring the rich history and culture of this beautifully preserved Edo-period town.

Begin in Sanmachi Suji, the historic district lined with traditional wooden merchant houses, sake breweries, and craft shops. Your guide will share stories about Takayama’s merchant past and unique architectural style. Stop by a local sake brewery to learn about the centuries-old brewing tradition and enjoy a tasting of Takayama’s famous sake.

Next, visit Takayama Jinya, a former government office from the Edo period, offering insight into Japan’s feudal administration. If time allows, take a short walk along the Higashiyama Temple Trail, a scenic path leading to historic temples and shrines.

Enjoy a free day in Takayama, exploring more of this charming mountain town independently. Start your morning with a visit to one of Takayama’s famous morning markets—Jinya-mae Market or Miyagawa Market—where you can browse stalls selling fresh produce, local crafts, and handmade souvenirs while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

After the market, consider visiting Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof farmhouses from the Hida region, offering insight into rural life in old Japan. For a deeper cultural experience, explore the Takayama Showa-kan Museum, which takes you back to 1950s-70s Japan with nostalgic exhibits. If you are a history enthusiast, the Hida Archaeology Museum offers a fascinating look into the region’s ancient past.

Take the Shinkansen from Takayama to Kyoto, enjoying a scenic journey through Japan’s stunning countryside. Upon arrival, drop off your luggage at your hotel and take some time to relax before immersing yourself in a Kado (Japanese flower arrangement) experience in the afternoon.

Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, learn the art of Kado, which emphasizes balance, harmony, and the natural beauty of flowers. Unlike Western floral design, Kado adheres to a philosophy of simplicity and fosters a deep connection with nature, creating a meditative and cultural experience.

Afterward, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Explore Kyoto’s atmospheric streets, visit a nearby temple or shrine, or relax at a traditional teahouse. With its rich history, serene gardens, and hidden alleyways, Kyoto offers countless opportunities to unwind and discover at your own personal pace before settling in for the night.

Spend a fully guided day in Kyoto exploring its rich cultural heritage by public transport. Begin in Arashiyama, strolling through the breathtaking Bamboo Grove, followed by a visit to Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Zen garden. For lunch, enjoy a Shojin Ryori meal, a traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, within Tenryu-ji’s serene temple grounds.

Next, visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), an iconic Zen temple with its shimmering gold exterior reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond. Continue to Nijo Castle, where you can walk through the famous Nightingale Floors and admire the intricate artwork of the Ninomaru Palace.

End the day with a relaxed stroll through Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s vibrant food street, tasting local dishes and immersing yourself in the city’s lively culinary scene before the tour concludes.

Travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima, stopping in Himeji for a half-day guided tour. Explore Himeji Castle, Japan’s most spectacular and best-preserved feudal castle, known as the White Heron Castle for its elegant white exterior. Wander through its historic wooden interiors and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.

After the castle, visit Koko-en Garden, a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden featuring tranquil ponds, waterfalls, and traditional teahouses, which offers a peaceful retreat.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Hiroshima by Shinkansen. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure, perhaps sampling local specialties like Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki before settling in for the night.

Enjoy a self-guided day exploring Hiroshima independently. Begin at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a deeply moving site dedicated to the history and legacy of the atomic bombing. Walk through the Memorial Cenotaph, the Flame of Peace, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, reflecting on Hiroshima’s message of peace and resilience.

In the afternoon, take a ferry to Miyajima Island, famous for the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most iconic sights. Stroll through the island’s scenic streets, visit Daisho-in Temple, or hike Mount Misen for breathtaking views. For a unique experience, you also have the option to kayak around the famous Torii Gate in Miyajima, offering stunning views.

Savor local specialties like grilled oysters and momiji manju before returning to Hiroshima for a relaxing evening.

Today is your final day in Japan. Make your way from the hotel to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your departure flight.