Savoring Japan: A Culinary and Cultural Journey
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Japan’s hidden culinary treasures! This tour is all about delving into traditional dishes that define Japanese culture, beyond the usual guidebook hotspots. Experience intimate, off-the-beaten-path dining in four distinct regions, each offering unique specialties rooted in history and local customs. Discover the stories and traditions behind these exclusive foods, and connect deeply with Japan’s evolving cuisine and vibrant culture. This isn’t just a food tour—it’s an immersive adventure that will enrich your understanding of Japan’s rich culinary heritage.
Tour’s Unique Features
Culinary Adventures
Experience authentic Japanese dishes featuring regional delicacies that are hard to find on your own. Enjoy bold flavors and rare specialties in their historical settings.
A Curated Exploration of Japan
Our next tour is currently in the planning stages and will take place in March 2025. Stay tuned for more details about this exciting journey through Japan’s hidden gems. Please check back soon for updates and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Cultural Immersion
Dive into Japan’s rich history and traditions through its cuisine, gaining a deeper understanding of local customs and cultural practices.
Ease of Travel
The carefully planned itinerary includes hotels, transportation to each region, restaurant reservations, and other logistics so you can relax and enjoy the experience.
Ideal For
Physically Able Travelers
who are comfortable with walking to explore various neighborhoods and local sights. A good level of fitness is recommended due to significant walking and a few hours of easy hikes. Waterproof and eco-friendly walking shoes are advised for comfort and sustainability.
Practical Travelers
who can manage their own luggage on the metro and in busy transport hubs. Packing light is recommended to ensure a smoother journey.test
Adventurous Eaters
who embrace new culinary experiences and areeager to try unique and special dishes, including those from remote or less accessible restaurants.
Culturally Open Individuals
who arewilling to explore lesswell-known sites and recognize that the inconveniences of travel time, waiting for buses, and dining in small, cozy restaurants are all part of an authentic cultural experience.
Trip Overview
Savoring Japan:
A Culinary and Cultural Journey
Trip Details
Duration: 8 Days
Start Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
End Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Tour Price:
$3,900 for individual participants
$3,500 per person when participating as a couple
Trip Starts: Tokyo (Shinjuku JR station)
Trip Ends: Kyoto (Kyoto JR station)
Ages: Minimum 15
Group Size: 6
What’s Included
– Meals: 5 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners
– Primary Tour Transportation: trains, buses, private vehicles
– Accommodation: Hotel (5 nights), Ryokan-a traditional Japanese inn (2 nights)
– Tour Support
- Online seminar offering advice on Japan to help plan your stay before or after the tour
- Assistance with personal restaurant or event reservations (available for an additional fee)
What’s Not Included
- Roundtrip Airfare: Please book your own tickets to Japan. Arriving a few days before the trip is recommended.
- Individual bus or subway fares with the group (about $2/trip) or transportation taken independently.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included in the trip cost. We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events or emergencies.
Explore our Previous Tour Photo Gallery
Day 1: Narai (Starts at 7:30 am)
Meet in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and take a train to Narai, a historic town along an ancient road with preserved Edo-period architecture. Enjoy the scenic views from the train along the way to this remote area. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by an impressive old town that feels like stepping back into the Edo period (1603–1868). Enjoy some free time to explore this tranquil setting. This region is also famous for its hot springs. You’ll stay for two nights in a traditional ryokan with hot spring baths, where you can relax in a yukata (cotton kimono) after bathing and savor a regional meal served in multiple courses.
Accommodation: Traditional Japanese style hotel with hot spring bath
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Tsumago/Magome
Today’s highlight is walking from Magome to Tsumago along the historic Nakasendo trail, immersing yourself in the experience of an Edo-period traveler. The approximately 9 km (5.5 miles) route is a gentle hike, perfect for enjoying the peaceful mountain scenery surrounded by cedar trees and bamboo. The serene, wooded path offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s past. Return to the same traditional ryokan for the night, where you can continue to enjoy the hot springs and the delightful meals.
Accommodation: Traditional Japan style hotel with hot spring bath
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Nagoya
Leave the mountainous town behind and head to Nagoya, Japan’s third-largest city. Often overlooked as travelers pass through on the Shinkansen, Nagoya has a compact, manageable scale that makes it ideal for exploring and getting a feel for the city. With the guidance of a local food expert, you’ll discover hidden culinary and cultural gems, enjoying a unique and flavorful tour of the city.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: The Outskirts of Nagoya
Situated between Kyoto and Tokyo, the region around Nagoya boasts a rich history of commerce and agriculture. It is home to long-standing traditional food producers, including miso and soy sauce companies, matcha tea farms, and eel farming operations. You’ll explore some of these historic food producers by car, sampling authentic regional dishes and experiencing the essence of local cuisine. This is a unique opportunity to see everyday life in a way that’s often hard to capture as a traveler.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Ise
The highlight of today is visiting the Ise Shrine, one of the most revered Shinto shrines in Japan and a central part of Japanese culture. Though less frequented by tourists due to its distance from the Shinkansen, Ise Shrine remains an intriguing destination with rich historical buildings and food culture. Despite its popularity among pilgrims and worshippers, the atmosphere beyond the torii gates is profoundly serene and spiritual. After lunch, enjoy some free time to explore the shrine and soak in the divine ambiance. Post-visit, experience local street food in the surrounding area, including traditional sweets, freshly brewed sake, and grilled seafood, for a full Ise experience.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, (Dinner on your own)
Day 6: Kyoto
Start your first day in Kyoto with a visit to the famous bamboo grove in Arashiyama. Then we will enjoy a leisurely lunch at a specialty restaurant renowned for its dashi, an essential component of Japanese cuisine. Afterward, we will spend a few hours exploring the bamboo path and the surrounding area, including a beautiful garden. While group exploration is encouraged, those who prefer to enjoy some free time can wander on their own. After sightseeing, we return to the hotel and will head out again to savor a delicious dinner in the heart of Kyoto.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Kyoto
Before the tourists arrive, we’ll start the day at Nishiki Market, also known as “Kyoto’s kitchen.” As we walk through the market, I’ll explain the various ingredients and prepared foods in the stalls along the way. Feel free to pick out whatever catches your eye to enjoy for brunch. Afterward, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore Kyoto at your own pace. I’ll provide recommendations in advance and help tailor suggestions to ensure everyone has a great time. We’ll meet back at the hotel before heading out for a final dinner together. After dinner, you can either return to the hotel or, for those feeling energetic, join me for a stroll through Gion, famous for its geisha district.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Dinner, (Brunch at Nishiki Market – Guided visit; purchase your own selections)
Day 8: Kyoto (ends at 2 pm)
On the final day, we’ll start early with a visit to Kyoto’s iconic Kiyomizu Temple, followed by a stroll through the charming, historic streets surrounding it. For our final meal together, we’ll indulge in a special lunch at a renowned yuba restaurant, famous for its delicate tofu skin dishes served at an intimate eight-seat counter. This marks the perfect conclusion to our journey. Afterward, I’ll assist you with your next destination, whether it’s a visit to nearby sites like Nijo Castle or Kinkakuji, or arranging transport to JR Kyoto Station. If you wish to extend your stay at the same hotel, please let me know when booking, as an additional fee will apply.
Meals: Lunch
Essential Trip Information
Trip Start and End
This trip begins in Tokyo on Day 1 at 7:30 AM. We will meet in front of Shinjuku Alta (3-24-3, Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo) to start the journey. To ensure everyone is comfortable with the meeting location, we will have a practice meetup opposite the station entrance at Alta the day before. The trip will end at Kyoto JR Station.
Passport
Ensure your passport is valid for international travel and has at least 6 months validity beyond your planned departure date. Your booking details should match your passport exactly. Carry a copy of your passport photo page and leave one with family or friends.
Visas & Entry Requirements
U.S. passport holders do not need a visa for short-term stays in Japan for tourism or business purposes of up to 90 days.
Food and Dietary Requirements
We strive to accommodate dietary needs and allergies where possible; however, please be aware that meeting specific requirements might be challenging, especially in remote areas. While Japan offers a wide range of vegetable dishes, many of these are prepared with fish-based stocks or seasonings, which means they may not be suitable for strict vegetarians or vegans. This is particularly true outside of major cities, where options are more limited.
If you have specific dietary restrictions, please consult with me before signing up for the tour. If your needs are extensive, this tour might not be the best fit for you.
Accommodation
Hotel: 5 nights in hotels. Japanese hotels often have smaller rooms and beds. When possible, I’ll reserve American-style hotels where beds are larger to ensure more comfort.
Traditional Stay: 2 night in a traditional Japanese ryokan. You’ll sleep on a tatami mattress on the floor and experience various traditional practices. I’ll explain all the details, including how to use the public natural spring baths, when we arrive.
Navigation Tips
In big cities, public transportation options are abundant. While Google Maps is a helpful tool in Japan, it’s a good idea to double-check the suggested routes to ensure you’re choosing the best option.
Suica Card
The Suica card is essential for easy travel in Japan, allowing cash-free payments on trains, subways, and buses. It can also be used at many stores and restaurants.
In addition to Suica, other regional cards like PASMO, ICOCA, and TOICA work the same way and can be used interchangeably across different areas. Please obtain one of these travel cards before the tour begins. You can add it as a Transit Card to your iPhone wallet or purchase one at JR East stations, airports, and convenience stores. Simply add value at ticket machines or stores, or by using Apple Pay on your phone.
Currency
The official currency in Japan is Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but smaller towns and restaurants may require cash, so it’s wise to always carry some. ATMs are plentiful, including in convenience stores. The Suica Card can be used at some places that don’t accept credit cards.
Contingency Funds
We may need to alter the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances. Any additional costs for such changes will be your responsibility. Carry extra JPY equivalent to USD 500 for emergencies, such as severe weather or transport disruptions.
Packing
Pack as lightly as possible and ensure that you can carry and lift your own luggage, including walking with it for short distances or up and down flights of stairs. Aim for under 15kg. Choose a backpack suitcase or a bag with carry straps or handles that you can easily lift and carry when you can’t wheel it, such as on rough surfaces or up and down steps. Check out this NYT article on good backpacks.
These are my recommendations as well as those of other participants:
Below we have listed the essentials for this trip: (LINK)
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for international trips. It must cover medical expenses, emergency repatriation, and ideally personal liability, cancellation, and loss of belongings. For more information or assistance with travel insurance, visit Travel Insurance Resources.
Itinerary Disclaimer
As the sole tour guide for this personalized tour experience, I aim to provide a unique and memorable journey for participants. The itinerary is crafted to offer an immersive and flexible exploration of Japan, emphasizing personal interaction and local experiences.
Itinerary Changes
While the itinerary is carefully planned, minor adjustments may occur due to weather, local conditions, force majeure or new opportunities. Any changes will be made to enhance your comfort and enjoyment.
Accuracy of Information
We strive for accuracy but cannot guarantee that all details are current or complete at all times. Information provided is subject to change.
Liability Limitation
Except due to our gross negligence or willful misconduct, we are not responsible for any personal injuries, losses, or damages incurred during the tour. Participants acknowledge the inherent risks of travel and agree to take personal responsibility for their safety and well-being.
Travel Risks/Force Majeure
Participants should be aware of the inherent risks associated with travel and assume responsibility for their own safety and well-being. In the event that the tour is cancelled or terminated early due to force majeure, we will refund of 75% of the total tour cost, minus the non-refundable deposit.
Review of Information
Our itineraries are updated regularly based on customer feedback and current conditions. Please review the latest information prior to travel. Due to factors such as weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or political unrest, further changes may be necessary once the tour begins. Your tour leader or local representative will keep you informed of any updates.
Thank you for your understanding. I look forward to sharing this memorable journey with you!
Terms and Conditions
1. Booking and Confirmation
- To secure your spot on the tour, a non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking. Full payment must be made at least 30 days prior to the tour start date.
- Booking confirmation will be sent upon receipt of the deposit and completion of the booking form.
2. Payment
- Payments can be made via bank transfer, check, or PayPal.
- The remaining balance is due 30 days before the tour begins. Failure to pay the balance by this date may result in cancellation of the booking.
3. Cancellations and Refunds
- Cancellations made more than 30 days before the tour start date will receive a refund of 75% of the total tour cost, minus the non-refundable deposit.
- Cancellations made within 30 days of the tour start date, other than for force majeure, are non-refundable. However, participants may find someone to take their place with our approval, in order to receive a refund.
- If the tour is canceled by Essence of Japan for any reason, a full refund will be provided. However, please note that we are not responsible for any additional expenses incurred by participants, including flights or other travel arrangements.
4. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the tour price and is mandatory. Guests must obtain their own travel insurance covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other travel-related risks.
5. Itinerary Changes
- Essence of Japan reserves the right to modify the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances, weather conditions, or other factors. Changes will be communicated to participants as soon as possible.
6. Health and Fitness
- Participants should be in good health and possess a reasonable level of fitness. The tour includes a significant amount of walking and a few hours of easy hiking.
- Participants with specific medical conditions or dietary restrictions should inform us before booking.
- In the event of a medical issue arising during the tour, participants are responsible for seeking appropriate medical attention. Essence of Japan will assist with communication and logistics but is not liable for any medical expenses incurred.
7. Responsibilities
- Participants are responsible for their own personal belongings and must adhere to local regulations and guidelines.
- Essence of Japan is not liable for any loss, injury, or damage to personal property during the tour.
8. Group Size
- Tours are designed for small groups of up to six people to ensure a more meaningful experience. As the sole guide, Yoko will provide suggestions and advice throughout the tour.
9. Contact Information
- For any questions or concerns, please contact us at yokosakai@gmail.com.
10. Acceptance of Terms
- By booking a tour with Essence of Japan, you acknowledge and agree to these terms and conditions.