The Hidden Daily Life and Living Traditions – Tokyo, Onomichi & Kyoto

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 unforgettable 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 have lunch before exploring Onomichi, a picturesque small town with narrow streets filled with delightful coffee and sweets shops. If you are a cat lover, don’t miss a stroll to the famous “Cat Alley,” home to one of the most significant cat colonies.

After a leisurely stroll through the charming town of Onomichi, unwind with a delightful dinner. Begin with a cocktail at the bar lounge, and then savor a delectable six-course dinner thoughtfully crafted from seasonal local ingredients, prepared by a chef blending European and Pan-Asian influences.

After a healthy breakfast made from local produce, we will guide you to a local temple, where you can enjoy painting a maneki-neko (beckoning cat).

The rest of the afternoon will be spent exploring Onomichi or the enchanting island of Ikuchijima, where you can savor not only the sights but also the local cuisine. You will receive a handpicked list of temples, cafes, shops, and restaurants, carefully curated by the locals and the Me Time Travel team. You can use these recommendations as your guide to explore historical, artistic, and cultural sites. There will be time for cycling, immersing yourself in the natural surroundings, and enjoying dinner at your leisure. The following day, we will embark on a journey to a traditional yet futuristic Zen temple, radiating quaint and charming allure.

After breakfast, we will partake in meditation sessions at the Shinshoji Zen Museum and Gardens. Led by a knowledgeable monk, you’ll learn the art of meditation, promoting calmness, clarity, and inner happiness. Take your time to explore the expansive and unique Japanese garden complex, featuring architectural structures that blend historical design with contemporary Zen art.

For lunch, we’ll indulge in a nourishing Zen meal with udon noodles at the temple, a feast that nurtures both body and soul. Following this peaceful retreat, we’ll embark on a Shinkansen (bullet train) journey from Onomichi to Kyoto, setting the stage for a lively evening in Kyoto renowned as Japan’s culinary haven. Expect dishes featuring the best of Kyoto, incorporating locally sourced vegetables and ingredients.

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.

In the morning, we’ll embark on an exploration of Kyoto’s breathtaking natural beauty nestled in the hills north of the city. Our journey will take us through the enchanting districts of Kurama and Kibune, a day hike starting from Kurama Temple to the Kifune Shrine. This trek is classified as easy and offers a perfect opportunity for mindful exercise that engages all our senses, including the rejuvenating practice of forest bathing. We will stop for lunch at a picturesque riverside and savor a delicious meal.

Return to central 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.