Less Is More in the Heart of Japan’s Coastal Gem -Tokyo, Ikuchijima, Kyoto & Osaka

On the first morning, we will meet in the hotel lobby before immersing ourselves in the lively atmosphere of Asakusa, home to Tokyo’s oldest temple. Don’t miss the chance to draw a good omikuji fortune. Around the temple, you will uncover hidden gems where time-honored traditions and secret recipes give birth to delightful local sweets and snacks.

Later, we will take you to Kappabashi, known as “Kitchen Street.” Stretching 800 meters, it hosts over 170 stores offering culinary supplies for both professionals and home cooks. We will continue on to a “Make Your Own Ramen” workshop and a sumptuous lunch in Asakusa. Dive into the art of crafting your ramen bowl, learning the secrets of a perfect broth, and selecting your favorite toppings.

The evening concludes with a warm welcome dinner at a traditional dining spot, marking the beginning of your journey.

Our morning begins with a visit to the Meiji Shrine, where tranquility graces the heart of the bustling metropolis. It offers a serene change of pace from the city before you venture onto the lively streets of Harajuku. Afterward, our focus turns to a hands-on food tour through these lively streets, allowing you to explore and savor whatever piques your interest. From crêpes to rice flour dumplings and cotton candy, Tokyo’s kawaii capital promises a delightful array of treats for your taste buds.

You’re free to choose your own dinner. Explore a range of dining experiences, from casual izakayas to Michelin-starred establishments. Discover unique restaurants tailored to your palate and enjoy a delightful meal.

The morning kicks off early with a visit to Toyosu, the epitome of organized chaos in the wholesale fish market. Afterward, we will board a Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Onomichi, a charming town in western Japan.

Upon arrival, we will take a short drive to Ikuchijima, the heart of a lemon-farming island nestled along the Inland Sea. After a hearty lunch, enjoy an afternoon at your leisure. You can relax at a local cafe sipping locally harvested tea or take a ferry to Onomichi to find a perfect souvenir to bring home.

After checking in at the hotel, you can enjoy the bath and sauna at the public bath across the street or spend time at your leisure. In the evening, we will reconvene for dinner at Azumi which offers a truly mindful dining experience where the chef selects seasonal ingredients and crafts dishes that reflect the day’s freshest goods, delivered by ferry. You’ll feel the warmth of Japanese hospitality in every aspect of this dining experience.

Embark on an island cycling tour in the morning or, if you prefer, indulge in extra rest amidst the tranquil ocean surroundings of the Inland sanctuary. Our private cycling guide will lead you along the renowned Shimanami cycling road, one of Japan’s most famous and visually stunning bike routes. Conclude the morning adventure with a sea-to-table lunch. The rest of the afternoon on the island is yours to savor, with opportunities to explore historical, artistic, and cultural sites. You’ll have plenty of time for cycling, swimming, fishing, taking an intimate tour in a sea taxi, and immersing yourself in the natural atmosphere. You can dine at your leisure.

Enjoy breakfast in a serene setting before heading out to the train station. We will then board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto to experience the centuries-old beauty of the ancient capital and create lasting memories. After a tofu lunch, we will explore Sanjusangendo, a temple that is home to 1,001 carved wooden statues of life-size armed Kannon dating back over 800 years. The next stop is Kennin-ji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, where you can meditate amidst a beautiful Zen garden. Continuing along the path through Kyoto’s renowned Gion district, we will take you to a stunning contemporary tea establishment where ancient Japanese aesthetics meet modern interpretation. In a tranquil setting, savor the exquisite craftsmanship of Japanese confectionery paired with green tea or a cocktail. 

In the late afternoon, we will return to the hotel, offering a chance to unwind at your leisure. Dinner is your choice to explore. We will see you the following morning as we set forth on an adventure to uncover the natural wonders of Kyoto’s countryside.

Today, we venture into the countryside of Kyoto, an area surrounded by mountains to visit and connect with a local farming family. They will graciously guide you on a tour of their farm and village, allowing you to explore their harmonious relationship with nature and their deep reverence for the natural world, which enables them to coexist in harmony. After savoring a hearty farm-to-table lunch in a charming thatched-roof house, you’ll have some free time to wander the village at your own pace. Take a stroll along the pristine river, sourced from the mountains, and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance while gaining insight into the local lifestyle.

In the early afternoon, we will head back to Kyoto. Tonight’s dinner is a delightful Kyotonian experience to enjoy tsukemono (pickled vegetables) made from vegetables that are traditionally grown only in Kyoto. Served in a modern and cozy setting, you can savor dishes like eggplant, pickling melon, lotus root, and an array of plant-based options.

Today, we kickstart our journey in Japan’s culinary capital, Osaka. You will have the chance to meet a local expert and indulge in the city’s renowned street food, takoyaki. After savoring the local delights, the remainder of the day is yours to relish, offering some last-minute “me time” and mindful exploration, including the opportunity to find lucky charms for both you and your loved ones.

Return to Kyoto for the farewell dinner and prepare to delight in shabu-shabu with Kuroge-wagyu beef in a traditional Kyoto townhouse-style establishment. As the evening unfolds, enjoy an authentic dance performance by a geisha accompanied by music. You’ll even have the chance to partake in traditional games with her.

It’s time to bid farewell. You will carry the memorable experiences in your hearts until our paths cross again. The tour will conclude after breakfast. If you plan to stay a few extra days, we can provide you with some tips on places to explore.