Eternally popular Japan is more in demand than ever right now. Why? No other place on Earth does the dance of old and new in quite the same way. Millennia of history are contained in its beautifully preserved temples and timeless arts and craft traditions passed down through generations. And yet Japan is also famous for embracing the future: skyscrapers, neon, high-speed bullet trains. But beyond the collision of the ancient and the ultramodern, there is the country's notorious pursuit of perfection (or perfect imperfection). This quality, which connects past and present, can be found in nearly every aspect of Japanese life, from the careful shaping of Bonsai trees to the micro-seasonality and fastidious presentation of the cuisine. You will experience both of these phenomena and many more examples of Japan's obsessive attention to detail on a journey that begins in high-energy Tokyo, wanders through under-the-radar Kanazawa and other coastal enclaves, and concludes on a serene note in traditional Kyoto.
Learn how to make sushi from a master at Tokyo’s legendary Tsukiji Fish Market
Unlock the essence of old Japan in Kyoto through temple tours and sake tastings
Delve into the daily life of Japan’s legendary warrior class at the Nagamachi Samurai Residence in Kanazawa
Attend a private dinner accompanied by a live traditional Japanese musical performance
Take a pottery-painting workshop in the birthplace of Kutani ceramics
Go behind the scenes at a private view to meet local artists and gallerists at Tokyo’s most exciting contemporary galleries
Journey details
- Farewell Dinner at 6:30 p.m. on Day 8
- Sightseeing at 9 a.m. on Day 2
- Minimum age is 10 years old
- Departures are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 guests