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Compare Cycling in Japan by Exodus Travels vs The Cultural Highlights of Japan by Road Scholar

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Duration 14 days 16 days
Price From $ 9,300 $ 7,899
Price Per Day $ 664 $ 494
Highlights
  • Cycle rural roads through peaceful Japanese countryside
  • Discover temples, Zen gardens and geisha districts in Kyoto
  • Ride the tranquil Fukui coast by the Sea of Japan
  • Visit the Unesco-listed historic village of Shirakawa-go
  • I like to spend much of the day exploring
  • Whether walking through historic neighborhoods at a moderate pace or out and about on a coach, I prefer to keep my days full
  • Stairs don’t bother me, and I love to keep up with the group
Trip Style Small group tour Small group tour
Lodging Level Standard Standard
Physical Level
  • N/A
  • 3- Moderate
Travel Themes
  • Cycling & Biking
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Culinary & Wine
  • Photography
  • National Parks
  • Yoga, Meditation & Wellness
  • Relaxing Retreats
  • Holy Land
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Kyoto
  • Takayama
  • Tokyo
  • Kanazawa
  • Kyoto
  • Tokyo
Flights & Transport No No
Activities
  • Cycling
  • Nature
  • Photography
  • Relaxing Retreat
  • Wildlife viewing
  • Yoga & Meditation
Meals Included All breakfasts and five dinners are included. Japanese cuisine is usually one of the main highlights of any trip to Japan. It is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes usually prepared with seasonal ingredients. Seafood is very common, and usually grilled or deep fried. Sushi and sashimi aside, other staple dishes include soba or udon noodles, sukiyaki (meat, fish and vegetables cooked in broth) and yakiniku (grilled meat). Some of the included dinners are taken at Japanese style hotels or ryokans (traditional guesthouses), which may serve a kaiseki-style dinner, a multi-course meal including a dozen tiny dishes prepared with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. When food is not included, your leader can recommend the best local eateries and arrange some group meals for a full immersion in the varied and excellent cuisine of Japan. Please note, the availability of certain specialised products for restricted diets, eg gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan, is minimal or non-existent in Japan. The group meals arranged by the tour leader will be in traditional eateries where the choices of vegan dishes may be limited to simple salads or boiled rice; however, there are several vegan restaurants in Kyoto and Tokyo. You may also find it beneficial to bring cycling snacks with you from home if you have high-energy bars or gels you like to use during a ride. For those who wish to contribute, a kitty is normally arranged and will be used to provide snacks and drinks during the rides.
  • Number of Breakfast: 14
  • Number of Lunch: 11
  • Number of Dinner: 10
Description

There is no better way to experience the ever-changing landscapes of Japan than on two wheels, as we pedal along the Fukui coast to the picturesque farmlands and remote mountainous regions of Takayama and Unesco-listed Shirakawa-go. From temples, shrines and markets to hot springs, this trip offers excellent rural cycling without compromising on the cultural elements. No trip to Japan would be complete without a visit to Kyoto, with its Zen gardens and geisha districts, and futuristic Tokyo, sprawling, inimitably busy and extraordinary.From Tokyo to Kyoto, enjoy a­­ road-based bike tour in the Land of the Rising Sun ­­

Take the adventure of a lifetime as you dive deep into the ancient culture of Japan, discovering iconic monuments, ancient traditions and world-renowned cuisine.
Itinerary: Cycling in Japan

Day 1 Start Tokyo

Day 2 Morning orientation walk and free afternoon to explore Tokyo

Today we enjoy a half-day orientation tour encompassing some of the city highlights, starting from the popular Asakusa district, where we visit Senso-ji, a seventh-century Buddhist temple. We approach the temple via the Nakamise, a shopping street home to a variety of traditional snacks and souvenirs. We then continue towards the Ueno area and walk through the beautiful public park filled with temples, shrines and about half a dozen museums. The afternoon is free for individual sightseeing; your leader can recommend other local attractions, such as Shibuya, known for the busy crossing, and Meiji Shrine. Accommodation: Shinagawa Prince Hotel (or similar)

Day 3 Train to Kanazawa; afternoon cycle loop and sightseeing

In the morning, we take the express train (approximately 2hr 30min) to Kanazawa, in the western Ishikawa Prefecture, an atmospheric town that once rivalled Kyoto as the historic jewel of mainland Japan. After lunch, we enjoy a short cycling loop around the city, a good opportunity to fine-tune the bikes while enjoying some of the main attractions in town. We ride through the popular Nagamachi Samurai District, an area that preserves a historic atmosphere with samurai residences, narrow lanes and canals. We also visit Kenrokuen, one of the most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan, which is particularly spectacular during cherry blossom and autumn season. Accommodation: Dormy Inn Kanazawa (or similar)

Day 4 Cycle from Kanazawa along the seaside coast; enjoy sunset at Oshima Bridge

We depart Kanazawa after breakfast and cycle to the sea on a dedicated cycling path along the rugged coastline and past fishing villages. After a leisurely and flat ride by the Sea of Japan, we arrive at Kaga, a town known for hot springs and traditional crafts. Here, we take a break from cycling to enjoy a local lunch. Recharged and rejuvenated, we continue the journey towards the resort of Kyukamura, our final destination, and enjoy sunset at nearby Oshima Bridge. Accommodation: Kyukamura Echizen Mikuni (or similar)

Day 5 Ride the dramatic Echizen-kaigan Coast; journey inland towards Echizen

Today, we ride south along the Echizen-kaigan coastline before turning inland towards the town of Echizen, the city of artisans. En route, we stop by a traditional pottery village to learn about the rich history of Echizen ware and enjoy a soba noodle lunch. After, we continue our cycle to to Echizen. Accommodation: Route Inn Takefu Inter Hotel or Hotel Route-Inn Sabae (or similar)

Day 6 Experience traditional Japanese knife-making; ride along one of the first train lines in Japan to the village of Tsuruga

We start with a deep dive into the world of traditional Japanese knife-making at the Takefu knife village. During our visit, we not only learn about this centuries-old craft, but also make our own letter opener. Afterwards, we ride back out to the coast along one of the  first train lines in Japan, now a cycling route. Along the way, we visit the splendid house of a ship owner from the Edo period and stop for a lunch with scenic views. This evening, we enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant in the village of Tsuruga, where we spend the next two nights. Accommodation: Hotel Route-Inn Tsuruga Ekimae (or similar)

Day 7 Final ride in the Fukui prefecture, taking in the lakes of Mikata and Wakasa Bay; visit the Takarasu rice field terraces

After breakfast, for our final ride in the Fukui prefecture, we embark on a loop around the five lakes of Mikata and Wakasa Bay, including a break for lunch at a seafood restaurant in a tranquil setting. Today’s cycling route also passes through Wakasa Wan Quasi-National Park and offers magnificent views throughout, before finishing the day with a visit to the Takarasu rice field terraces. Accommodation: Hotel Route-Inn Tsuruga Ekimae (or similar)

Day 8 Travel to Unesco-listed Shirakawa-go village by train and bus; overnight in a traditional ‘gassho-zukuri’ farmhouse

We take a break from cycling today and experience a dramatic change of landscape as we travel inland by shinkansen (bullet train) to Kanazawa and then bus (approximately three hours) to Shirakawa-go, a secluded mountainous region cut off from the rest of Japan for a long period of time. Villages in this area are famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which were declared a Unesco site in 1995. Their unique architectural style is characterised by steep thatched roofs, built to withstand heavy winter snowfall, and provide a large attic space for the cultivation of silkworms. We arrive in Shirakawa-go in the afternoon in time to enjoy a leisurely walk through the picture-perfect mountain village, with the opportunity to visit some of the oldest buildings. Although not always guaranteed due to limited availability, we usually spend the night at one or more gassho-zukuri, run by local farmers, allowing us to get a real feel of a Japanese family home. Accommodation: Gassho Zukuri Houses or Toyota Shirakawa-Go Eco-Institute (when gassho-zukuri not available)

Day 9 Challenging ride to Hida Takayama, at the foothills of the Japanese Alps

Today is the most challenging ride of the trip as we cycle inland to Hida Takayama, at the foothills of the Japanese Alps. Riding out of Shirakawa-go, from an altitude of approximately 1,640ft (500m), we gradually climb up 3,610ft (1,100m) for the first 28mi (45km) of the route. There are some wonderful views to enjoy along the way, from the picturesque shores of Miboro Lake and quaint rural villages to hillsides and forested valleys that burst into colour during autumn. On the last section of the ride, we enjoy two great descents before reaching our destination: Hida Takayama, often named Little Kyoto because of the similarity of its architecture and quaint atmosphere. Accommodation: Takayama Ouan (or similar)

Day 10 Cycle to the castle town of Gujo Hachiman, past little villages, local shrines and paddy fields

Today we cycle the Hida Seseragi Highway, a beautiful route following swift mountain streams (and one of the most popular places to experience the striking autumn colours in Japan). Riding past little villages, shrines and paddy fields, we reach the pleasant riverside town of Gujo-hachiman, known for its pristine waterways and 16th-century castle. Before dinner, we have time for a pleasant stroll through the vibrant town centre and along the atmospheric canals and waterways, which are still used daily by the local people for washing rice, vegetables and laundry. Time and energy permitting, we have the option to walk to the hilltop castle built in 1559 by the local feudal lord, where we can enjoy wonderful vistas. Accommodation: Onoso Ryokan (or similar)

Day 11 Cycle along the Nagara River to the town of Gifu

Today’s pleasant and more leisurely ride follows the Nagara River, famed across Japan for its clear water and quiet beauty. Some sections of the riverside are particularly picturesque during cherry blossom season when more than 400 cherry trees are in full and glorious bloom. We pedal along the river for most of the day and stop in the pleasant town of Mino, a century-old production centre of high-quality traditional Japanese paper. Our final destination today is Gifu; we should arrive in time for an optional visit to the castle atop Mount Kinka. We overnight in Gifu City. Accommodation: Gifu Washington Hotel Plaza (or similar)

Day 12 Travel to Kyoto by train; free time for sightseeing

We take a break from cycling today; instead, we travel by train (approximately two hours) to the wonderful city of Kyoto. With more than 2,000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto is a treasure house of Japanese heritage and remains one of the most fascinating cities in Asia. Unlike many other Japanese towns, it escaped the ravages of both the Second World War and modern urban development thereby keeping intact much of the spirit and architecture of traditional Japan. The day is free for individual sightseeing with many highlights to explore, including Nijo castle, built in 1603 as a residence for the Tokugawa shoguns; Kiyomiduzera temple; and the scenic Fushimi Inari Shrine, featured in the movie Memoirs of a Geisha (2005). We also recommend a walk in the historic district of Gion, which is at its most atmospheric in the early evening, when the lanterns are lit and apprentice geishas flit about the backstreets as they head to their appointments. Accommodation: Via Inn Prime Kyoto-eki Hachijoguchi (or similar)

Day 13 Final circular ride in Kyoto exploring the pleasant district of Arashiyama and two seasonal temples

Today’s cycling loop explores some of the best areas and attractions of Kyoto, heading first towards Arashiyama, a pleasant district in the western outskirts of the city. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185) when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. After pedalling through the charming centre, via the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and bamboo grove, we continue back into Kyoto following a different route. On the way, we stop for a visit to Ryoanji Temple, the site of the most famous rock garden in Japan, and the splendid Kinkakuji (also known as the Golden Pavilion), an icon of the nation. Finally, we cycle via the Philosopher’s Path, a pedestrian and cycling path that follows a cherry tree-lined canal in northern Kyoto, until reaching Kyoto station where our last ride finishes. In the evening, the leader arranges an optional celebratory farewell dinner in one of the most authentic restaurants in the city. Accommodation: Via Inn Prime Kyoto-eki Hachijoguchi (or similar)

Day 14 End Kyoto

The tour ends this morning after breakfast. Of course, if you’d like a bit more time to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Itinerary: The Cultural Highlights of Japan

Day 1 In Transit to Program In Flight

Day 2 Arrival Tokyo, Orientation, Welcome Dinner Tokyo

Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m., meet group in hotel lobby at 6:45 p.m.

After some time to relax and get settled, we’ll meet in the hotel lobby and walk to a nearby restaurant where we will go over program logistics and have dinner.

Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This program will be accompanied by both a Group Leader, who will primarily handle logistics, and a Study Leader who will lead most lectures and field trips, unless otherwise specified. Meals will include water and tea; other beverages will be available for purchase, unless specified otherwise. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. We’ll then return to the hotel. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

At a restaurant near the hotel, we’ll enjoy a family-style meal together for our Orientation Dinner, with one Welcome Drink (beer, wine, coffee, tea) and water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 3 History Overview, Imperial Palace Gardens, National Museum Tokyo

Walking approx. 2 miles throughout the day; mostly flat, pavement, some steps, elevators and escalators may not always be available. Driving approx. 10 miles total throughout the day, with stops; about 2 hours.

We begin the day with a lecture on not only Tokyo’s, but also an overview of Japan’s history by our Study Leader that will set the stage for our exploration of Japanese culture. Boarding our motor coach, we go for an exploration of the Imperial Palace East gardens, the site of the Shogun’s castle, with your Study Leader. Residence of the Tokugawa shogun between 1603 ~ 1867, the Imperial Palace East Gardens are one part of the inner palace area that is open to the public. Here will see the former defenses of the castle including the moats, walls, entrance gates and guardhouses.

After lunch we transfer to the Tokyo National Museum. The oldest and largest in Japan, the museum houses over 110,000 objects including 600 Important Cultural Properties. The museum is located on the edge of Ueno Park, a very pleasant park to stroll through.

At leisure.

At the hotel, we’ll enjoy a tasty breakfast buffet with juice, coffee, tea, water.

At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

At a local restaurant, we’ll have a family-style meal with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 4 Cultural Entertainment in Japan Tokyo

Walking approximately 1 mile; gentle pace. Use of public transportation; about 1 hour of assorted rail and subway transfers; some stairs, elevators and escalators may not always be available.

During a morning lecture given by an expert in Kabuki, we’ll learn about this classical Japanese dance-drama that has been performed in Japan since 1603. Afterwards, a visit to the Kabuki-za theater's kabuki museum for an examination of the art form's inner workings.

Free time to explore the area independently beginning in the mid-afternoon.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

Hotel buffet.

A light lunch at a restaurant in Kabuki-za; tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 5 Japanese Feudal Castle Towns, Matsumoto, Miso Manufacturer Matsumoto

Driving approx. 145 miles; about 3.5 hours to Matsumoto. Walking approximately 1.5 miles in and around Matsumoto Castle; some very steep flights of steps and polished wooden floors. Shoes will need to be removed to enter some of the attractions today.

After checking out of the hotel, we’ll leave Tokyo and travel into the heart of central Japan to Matsumoto, a pleasant regional city surrounded by the Japanese Alps. As we travel, we’ll learn about the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate through a lecture delivered by our Study Leader. Upon arrival in Matsumoto, we’ll go straight to a traditional miso manufacturer’s facility to learn and see how this essential Japanese foodstuff is made.

We’ll then explore the city of Matsumoto we go on a visit to the city's castle. The keep of Matsumoto Castle, an impressive and imposing structure, is an original which dates back to the late 16th century and is one of only five in Japan to be designated a National Treasure. While here, we’ll be given insights into the establishment and the importance of castle towns under the Tokugawa Shogunate. We’ll also delve into the facts with our Study Leader and compare them to common myths surrounding samurai. Carrying on, we’ll then check into the hotel.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

At the miso manufacturer’s establishment, we’ll enjoy a delicious plated lunch featuring their product with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

At the hotel, we’ll have plated meals with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 6 The Nakasendo Way, Narai, Kiso-Hirasawa & Lacquerware Matsumoto

Transferring approx. 30 miles one way; about 2 hours total. Walking about 2 miles; approx. 1.5 hours; flat terrain around Narai and Kiso Hirasawa. Sitting on the floor on tatami mats for lunch. Shoes will need to be removed to enter some of the attractions today.

Setting out for a full-day field trip, we’ll first go to Kiso-Hirasawa, a center for hand-crafted, high quality lacquer ware. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the workshop of one of the top lacquer craftsmen of Japan to learn about the painstaking process of his exquisite art.

Continuing, we’ll travel to Narai, one of the best-preserved post towns of the old Nakasendo Highway. Lying at the foot of the difficult Torii Pass (4200 feet), Narai prospered from the travelers who would rest there in order to prepare for the difficult journey ahead. While here, we will view the distinctive wooden houses with their overhanging roofs and the many well-preserved features of an old post town. We’ll then return to Matsumoto.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel, we’ll enjoy a Western plated breakfast with juice, coffee, tea, water.

At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

On your own to sample the local fare.

Day 7 Japan Central Alps, Takayama Festival Floats Takayama

Driving approx. 50 miles; about 2.5 hours to Takayama. Walking of about 2 miles total throughout the day. Shoes will need to be removed to enter some of the attractions today as well as upon arrival at the hotel.

After checking out of the hotel, we’ll leave Matsumoto via motorcoach and drive through the spectacular scenery of Japan’s Central Alps on our way to Takayama, also known as ‘Little Kyoto’ by the locals. Upon arrival, we’ll explore this compact, delightful town on foot with our Study Leader.

Our arrival in Takayama will take us to the Festival Floats Exhibition hall, where 11 of the floats for this famous festival are kept and displayed on rotation, four at a time. These floats date back to the 17th century, and their detailed wood carvings and metal work reflects the districts of Takayama that they represent. We’ll then check into the hotel with some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

Hotel plated meal.

At a local restaurant, we’ll have tasty plated meals with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

At the hotel, we’ll enjoy a traditional plated Japanese-style dinner. Tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 8 Regional Architecture, Jinya, Kanazawa Geisha Quarters Kanazawa

Driving approx. 75 miles; about 2 hours. Walking approx. 2 miles throughout the day, half in the morning in Takayama and half in Kanazawa in the afternoon; mostly flat terrain on pavement.

Largely isolated by the surrounding mountains, Takayama fiercely protected its independence under pressure from the Shogunate, which eventually had to resort to direct rule. Through a visit to the historic Jinya, the Shogunate’s local headquarters, we’ll gain insight into Takayama's proud history and daily life in the provinces. As we continue, we’ll take in the picturesque Sanmachi district of town where the streets are lined with many beautifully preserved traditional shops, inns, restaurants, cafés, private homes and museums. Along the way, we’ll see the sake breweries where this very palatable drink is made and sample a glass or two. Our Study Leader will show us around and answer any questions.

Then we will board our motorcoach for transfer to Kanazawa. Spared from large scale bombing during the Pacific War, Kanazawa retains much of its distinct charm. Upon arrival we explore one of the former Geisha quarters before transferring to our hotel.

At leisure.

At the hotel, we’ll enjoy a delicious buffet featuring Western and Japanese dishes, plus coffee, tea, water.

Plated meal at a local restaurant.

At the hotel, we’ll have delicious plated meals featuring Kaga cuisine, well-known throughout Japan. Tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 9 The Samurai & Their Domains Kanazawa

Walking approx. 2 miles during group activities throughout the morning; mostly flat with some slopes and steps; more depending on personal preference.

In the Edo Period, Kanazawa flourished economically and culturally under the powerful Kaga Clan. With the exception of the Shogun’s family, the Kaga Clan was the wealthiest family with a worth of more than one million koku - one koku (about six US bushels) was defined as enough rice to feed one person for a year. The city’s glorious past is still palpable in its samurai quarters, former pleasure quarters and temples. The Kenrokuen Gardens and the imposing, recreated castle buildings, which we will walk through led by our Study Leader, attest to the power of the Clan’s wealth and evoke their grand lifestyle.

Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. You may wish to check out the lively and warren-like central food market, the Samurai Quarter or, for a change of pace, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is an acclaimed, ultra-modern structure that is as much of an attraction as the art housed inside.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel we’ll enjoy a breakfast buffet with juice, coffee, tea, water.

On your own to enjoy local regional fare.

On your own to explore the local fare.

Day 10 The Japan Sea Obama

Walking approx. 1.5 miles in Kanazawa throughout the morning; mostly flat with some steps. Driving approx. 110 miles; about 2 hours to Obama. Shoes will need to be removed to enter some of the attractions today.

After checking out of the hotel, we’ll take a stroll through a nearby samurai quarter and visit a samurai residence built in 1583 that has recently been awarded two Michelin stars. After returning to the hotel to board our motorcoach, we’ll then set out on our driving transfer along the coast to the seaside town of Obama.

Upon arrival in this charming seaside town, we visit the Tobaya vinegar factory, currently run by the families 12th generation, to discover the secrets behind the production of Japanese vinegar. Later we check into our accommodations and have some time to relax and enjoy the hot spring baths.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

On your own, choose from various options at a Service Area on route to Obama.

At the inn, we’ll experience Japanese hospitality at its best with a Kaiseki multi-course plated meal, with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 11 Seaside towns, cruise and food museum Obama

Cruise trip approx. 50 minutes. Walking approx. 2 miles throughout the day; extended periods of standing in the afternoon. Shoes will need to be removed to enter some of the attractions today.

Free time to relax in the morning or optional walk around the town with your Study Leader. Late morning we take a cruise from Obama Bay around the peninsula to see the beautiful scenery along the Japan sea coast.

In the afternoon we visit the Food Culture Museum, an interesting combination of museum, cooking studio, crafts activity area and hot springs. We enjoy a hands-on experience making Japanese paper postcards. Afterwards, depending on the time of year, we will either visit a high school or we will spend some time meeting other local Obama residents.

At the inn, the remainder of the evening at leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the inn we’ll have a traditional plated Japanese breakfast with juice, coffee, tea, water.

A plated meal in a local restaurant.

At the inn, we enjoy our second Kaiseki multi-course plated meal, with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 12 Small-Scale Agriculture & Rural Ecology in Japan Kyoto

Driving approx. 70 miles; about 1.5 hours to Miyama and 1.5 hours to Kyoto. Walking approx. 2 miles throughout the day; gentle pace with short bus transfers between sites. Extended periods of standing in the afternoon. Shoes will need to be removed to enter some of the attractions today.

Once checked out of the hotel, we’ll drive to Miyama where we engage in a cooking class with some local residents in a community group and learn to use some fresh local ingredients to make some regional favorites.

Our day continues with a visit to the Kayabuki no Sato thatched village. When we get there, we’ll go on a stroll around the houses led by our Study Leader before visiting the indigo gallery.

At leisure.

At the inn we’ll have a traditional plated Japanese breakfast with juice, coffee, tea, water.

Enjoy the food you have made.

After arriving into Kyoto, at a local restaurant we will enjoy nice dinner with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 13 Japanese Tea Ceremony, Daitoku-ji Temple, Raku Museum Kyoto

Short transfers via taxis. Walking approx. 2 miles throughout the day; extended periods of standing in the afternoon. Siting on either tatami mats or small chairs on the floor during tea ceremony. Space is limited at the tea room, and that large groups will be split into two, reversing the daily itinerary. Sitting on the floor at lunch. Shoes will need to be removed to enter some of the attractions today.

We’ll start out by exploring the massive 56-acre Daitoku-ji temple complex associated with Sen no Rikyu, the ultimate master of the tea ceremony. While here, we’ll explore the meaning of Zen Buddhist rock gardens and the origins of some notable Japanese architectural features. Rounding off the main theme today, we’ll then experience a tea ceremony in the informative and enthralling company of a tea master. We’ll delve into the ceremony, a delightful and deeply meaningful practice far from the rigid image it often has, and also make tea for each other.

After lunch, we’ll go on a field trip to the Raku Museum to see more examples of ceramics and utensils associated with tea ceremony. We’ll then return to the hotel.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

At a Shojin Ryori, a temple vegetarian restaurant located by the 56-acre Daitoku-ji temple complex, we’ll enjoy a tasty plated meal with tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

On your own to explore the regional cuisine.

Day 14 Ashikaga Yoshimasa & Japanese Arts Kyoto

Walking approx. 2 miles throughout the day; gentle pace, some stairs, elevators and escalators may not always be available. Short transfers via taxis.

Setting out from the hotel, we’ll begin a comprehensive multi-stop field trip led by our expert Study Leader. First, we’ll arrive at the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts and begin with an introduction to the city’s splendid artisan crafts before walking to nearby Heian Jingu, a vast Shinto shrine complex that was modeled on an ancient imperial palace. Our next stop will be Ginkaku-ji temple (Silver Pavilion), built by the 8th Ashikaga Shogun Yoshimasa. Like his grandfather, Yoshimitsu, Yoshimasa was a great patron of the arts but a poor governor of the nation. While Kyoto was engulfed in the internecine and destructive Onin Wars, the Higashiyama culture began and flourished at Ginkaku-ji. Based largely on the ideals and aesthetics of Zen Buddhism and the concept of wabi-sabi, which can be translated as beauty in simplicity, Higashiyama culture centered on the development of the Japanese tea ceremony, ikebana flower arranging, Noh drama, and sumi-e ink painting.

Then we’ll travel to explore the world-famous geisha quarter of Gion. The area emerged in order to accommodate the needs the many travelers and pilgrims coming to visit nearby Yasaka Shrine. A short walk away is the extensive Teramachi shopping arcade, for those wanting to sample some of Kyoto's more modern wonders.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

Local restaurant plated meal.

Local restaurant plated meal.

Day 15 The Mystery of Noh Theater, Free Time, Farewell Dinner Kyoto

Short transfer via taxis to lecture. Walking approx. 1/2 mile during group activity; mostly flat terrain. More dependent on personal preference.

Setting out via taxi and on foot, we’ll transfer to a lecture hall to learn about the traditions and symbolism of Noh theatre from one of its leading Western students.

Free time.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.

Hotel buffet.

Plated meal at a nearby restaurant.

At a restaurant near the hotel, we’ll celebrate our journey over a delicious plated farewell dinner. Tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase. Share some of your favorite experiences from the program with new Road Scholar friends.

Day 16 Program Concludes In Flight

Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.

If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Hotel buffet. This concludes our program.

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"To travel is to live."
Hans Christian Anderson
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