9-Nights Journey Through Japan... A Family Adventure - Tauck Bridges Family Travel from $9,590

Tauck

OFFER ID 1539740

Journey Through Japan... A Family Adventure

From bullet trains to rickshaws, ninja arts to sushi making, age-old temples to modern-day marvels, Japan welcomes with traditions and technologies fun for families to experience together. Discover them on a three-night stay in Tokyo, learning about Japanese warriors, digital art, cultural trends and more as you experience a taste of life in one of the world's most exciting cities. Speed out into the countryside aboard a bullet train, then slow down and soak in the sights of Lake Ashi on a pirate cruise with view of Mt. Fuji. History takes center stage during a two-night stay in Hiroshima, peaceful today, and Kyoto enchants with cultural sights, a geisha performance and a nightingale castle that you'll not soon forget.

9 nights from $9,590 per person

Itinerary

Tauck World Discovery: Journey Through Japan... A Family Adventure

Day 1 Tokyo, Japan
Arrive Tokyo
Tour begins: 5:00 PM, Conrad Tokyo. A transfer is included from Tokyo's Narita and Haneda airports to the Conrad Hilton hotel in the heart of the city's Shiodome district within walking distance of the famous Ginza district. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner tonight as you meet your fellow family travelers in one of the world's most exciting cities.
Meals: D

Day 2 Tokyo, Japan
A taste of daily life, past and present

Immerse in the interactive wonders of team Lab Planets Tokyo, an award-winning innovative museum where you can walk through water with koi fish, become one of the flowers in a colorful garden, immerse in art work that's everchanging, view light spheres and stars constantly on the move and more incredible hands-on experiences that are unforgettably fun for everyone to enjoy together. The non-stop action continues at lively Tsukiji Outer Market, a great place to hunt for foods made of fish and learn firsthand how to make sushi for lunch. This afternoon, visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, and enjoy the height of fashion for kids and teens on a walking tour of trendy Harajuku that tempts with sweets and bubble tea. Have dinner at your hotel tonight.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 3 Tokyo, Japan
Temples, rickshaws and ninja warriors

Set off for a day of hands-on discoveries that reveal cultural traditions centuries-old. First up is a visit to the oldest and one of the most colorful temples in Tokyo, Asakusa Kannon Temple (Senso-Ji) built back in 645 for the goddess of mercy and backdropped today by the science-fiction-style Tokyo Skytree. Hop aboard a rickshaw for an eye-opening sightseeing ride in the city before experiencing what it takes to be a ninja warrior. Lunch like a local today, then head into the famous shopping district of Ginza for an afternoon of electronic and anime surprises. Spend the evening as you please.

Meals: B, L

Day 4 Hakone, Japan
A bullet train to Hakone
Capable of traveling up to 200 miles per hour, Japan's famous bullet train is the fastest way to speed from place to place. Today, come aboard for a train ride to the hot springs town of Hakone in the Japanese countryside for an overnight stay. Upon arrival, a tram ride takes you down a volcanic valley to Lake Ashi, where a private boat cruise across the lake awaits. Weather permitting, enjoy views of Mount Fuji towering off in the distance, before disembarking for lunch and a visit to the outdoor sculpture park at the Open Air Museum. Enjoy free time at your hotel before dinner tonight.
Meals: B, L, D

Day 5 Hiroshima, Japan
History in Hiroshima
Ride aboard two bullet trains today as you make your way to your hotel in Hiroshima. Take in the sights like the locals do and find lunch in the food courts at the train station. Late this afternoon check into your hotel for the next two nights, the Hilton Hiroshima, ideally located in the center of the city. Dinner tonight is at the hotel.
Meals: B, L, D

Day 6 Hiroshima, Japan
A Peace Park & Miyajima Island

Hiroshima is where the first atomic bomb was dropped in WWII creating unimaginable devastation. Today this important rebuilt city has become a beacon of hope and education towards abolishing nuclear weapons and promoting peace. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park, home to many poignant memorials and monuments that chronicle the reality of that fateful event. If you wish, take the opportunity to view the sights from atop the Orizuri Tower overlooking the park. For lunch, your family is in for a special treat as you learn to make okonomiyaki, a crepe-like pancake that is topped with a variety of meat, seafood, vegetables and cheese. Prepare it the way you like and enjoy a taste of this favorite Japanese treat. A short ferry ride this afternoon brings you to the island of Miyajima for a visit to the Itsukushima Shrine, known for its "floating" torii gate. Home to hundreds of free-roaming Sitka deer, the island is regarded as one of the most scenic spots in Japan. Ferry back to your hotel in Hiroshima where the evening is free to enjoy as you wish.

Meals: B, L

Day 7 Kyoto, Japan
Charming Kyoto
Speed to the enchanting city of Kyoto aboard a bullet train this morning, arriving in time for lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to the Buddhist temple Kiyomizu-dera for a locally guided tour. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple was built in 780 on the side of a steep mountain near the Otowa Waterfall. Its name, translated to mean "pure water temple," comes from the crystal-clear water of the three streams at the slope of the hill, each having their own unique meaning to whoever drinks from them. One stream promises longevity, one, academic success, and one portends a good love life. Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the temple's expansive wooden deck, before driving to your hotel in the heart of the city, recognized as one of "The Best Hotels and Resorts in the World: The Gold List 2024" by Condé Nast Traveler. Have dinner at the hotel at your leisure.
Meals: B, L, D

Day 8 Kyoto, Japan
Cultural treasures & timeless traditions of Kyoto
Home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto is world-famous for its refined culture, dining, and charm of rural Japan. Explore its landmark sites today, including a locally guided visit to golden-topped Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, set in a garden on the edge of a lake, and a walk through Nishiki Market, rich with history and tradition and renowned for its famous foods and goods. This afternoon, learn about the art of life in this enchanting city as you experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony, discover the finer points of calligraphy and try your hand at Taiko drumming. Spend the evening as you wish.
Meals: B, L

Day 9 Kyoto, Japan
Nijo Castle & geisha secrets
History takes center stage on a visit to Nijo Castle, today one of the seventeen Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. A place of spellbinding beauty, Nijo Castle was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of the powerful first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867). Discover the secret of its nightingale floors on a guided tour, shoes off. Meet a geisha this afternoon in the Gion district, where more time-honored secrets are revealed, and join us for a farewell reception and dinner this evening.
Meals: B, D

Day 10 Kyoto, Japan
Journey Home
Tour ends: 8:00 AM, Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto to Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport. Allow a minimum of three hours for flight check-in at the airport.
Meals: B

Featured Destinations

Kyoto

Hiroshima

Hakone

Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan, presents a different view at every turn. It's one of the world's main economic centers and its most populous agglomeration. The business of Tokyo is business, but you can still find harmony and small-scale gardens on back streets. Around the corner from neon and concrete, you may find the bonsai-lined courtyard of a traditional inn.

Tokyo was nearly destroyed by bombs and fires during World War II, and by earthquakes at other times, but it has always rebuilt itself. As a result, there is little left of Old Japan in the city, but there's plenty of New Japan to take its place.

The streets are a confusing maze, so a map is essential. The transit system is excellent, however, and there are kobans (police boxes) throughout the metropolis, as well as a populace generally willing to answer questions.

Visitors to Tokyo represent both business and leisure travelers. And despite its past reputation, Tokyo is no longer fearsomely expensive. It's relatively easy to visit Tokyo on a budget.

Excursions

Shinjuku - Night in The City - 4 Hours

Wheeling Your Way Through Tokyo - 6 Hours

Forget the bus, get out of the car, and by no means take the subway – experience Tokyo by bicycle a seemingly unusual way to explore one of the world’s largest megalopolises. But once on your bike and pedaling through the city’s many and varied neighborhoods you will experience Tokyo in a truly unique way.

You will transfer to Chuo-ku, Tokyo where you choose your bicycle and try it out before setting off. Once ready and under the supervision of your cycling guide set off for the Tour de Tokyo pedaling your way through some of the distinctive districts that make Tokyo so memorable:–
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Tsukishima (traditional market area famed for its monjayaki savoury pancake) and Tsukiji Outer Market the largest seafood market in the world.
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Ginza (Tokyo’s chic shopping district – the city’s “Fifth Avenue”)
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Shinbashi Station (Japan’s oldest railway station)
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Azabu Juban Village (eclectic, eccentric and exciting – where trendy meets traditional)
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Roppongi, Aoyama and Harajuku & Omotesando (iconic architecture and fashion forward for today’s Tokyo)
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Yoyogi Park (site of the 1964 Olympic Village – weather permitting enjoy a picnic lunch)
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The New National Stadium (site of the 2020 Opening Ceremonies)
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Meiji Jingu Shrine (Tokyo’s revered Shinto Shrine set within a verdant forest park)
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Yoyogi National Stadium (Tange Kenzo’s stunning design for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games)
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Jingu Gaien Mall (the beautiful Gingko lined Avenue)
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Akasaka Palace (the magnificent State Guest House)
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Parliament House (the site of the National Diet)
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Imperial Palace Grounds (The Iconic Nijubashi Bridge and the moat)
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Tokyo Station + KITTE (Marunouchi Minami Exit side)
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15:00: Arrive at Chuo-ku, Tokyo – the end of this Tokyo tour

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

08/11/2025 - 08/20/2025

from $9,590 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $9,590 per person

Length

9 Nights

Air City

Call for airfares from your city.

Vacation Rating

Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.

Remarks

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability and change without notice. Prices reflect land only accommodations, airfare is additional. Blackout dates/seasonal supplements may apply. Itinerary and map subject to change. Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Please click here for a description of the travel style options provided by Tauck.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1539740

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Merced Travel

(209) 383-1511 Alternate (209) 658-6518