Shaped by geography, economic forces, and cultural change, Japan boasts one of the world’s most distinctive, varied, and delicious cuisines. Washoku – traditional Japanese cooking – is itself recognized by UNESCO as an “Intangible Cultural Asset,” and local staples like sushi, tempura, sake, and soy sauce can be found virtually all over the world. This delightful and delectable journey into Japanese gastronomy introduces the curious and the experienced to Japan’s many flavors through private encounters with top chefs, guided food tours, and so much more.
After touching down and settling in, take to the streets of Japan’s capital on a privately guided tour of Tokyo’s must-see highlights, including the pre-war Asakusa district, Senso Temple, and the Meiji Shrine before embarking on a nighttime stroll of the trendy Akachochin (“red lantern”) district, famed for its informal pub-like izakayas and their delicious yakitori, sashimi, and noodles. Later in nearby Kawagoe, get a feel for the 17th-century Edo period on a private walking tour that features a visit to a soy-sauce factory and all sorts of traditional snacks like grilled rice balls and Japanese ice cream before returning to Tokyo for dinner at a top restaurant. Local delicacies abound everywhere in Japan, even inside national parks; at Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, you’ll get the chance to try the famous black egg – a hardboiled egg cooked in a sulfurous hot spring – while taking in the impressive landscapes, then sample a delicious kaiseki dinner at a peaceful ryokan. ... Show More »
From there, the scene shifts to serene Kyoto. Following an enlightening meal with a genuine geisha (hosted and interpreted by Japanese historian Peter Macintosh), spend part of the day exploring the gardens, bamboo groves, and temples (especially UNESCO-protected Tenryu-ji) of the Arashiyama region before discovering Kyoto’s historic Kinkaku Temple, Nijo Castle, and other landmarks on a private tour. Since no culinary tour is complete without a chance to make a meal yourself, your final day features a sushi-making lesson led by an expert chef, followed by a fun final night spent discovering the dazzling galaxy of street foods in Dotonbori, the world-famous pedestrian-only restaurant street in nearby Osaka. Be sure to save room for takoyaki (octopus dumplings)!
Kensington Tours creates private trips from the world’s finest ingredients. Tailor-made with care by your personal Destination Expert, your personalized trip is always a one-of-a-kind experience made just for you. Expert local guidance and 24/7 service come standard. « Show Less
With the inside track on the new, the old, the off-the-beaten track and the out-of-this-world, you won't find a more knowledgeable team of destination specialists.
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Welcome to Japan!
For your added comfort, you will be welcomed by an English speaking assistant who will assist you upon arrival at the airport. Your assistant will be waiting for you with a sign with your name on it.
Meet your driver for an enjoyable airport transfer with a private vehicle.
Accommodation: Peninsula TokyoThe truly first class Peninsula Tokyo Hotel is located in a business and shopping district, opposite Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace. It is adjacent to Hibiya Subway Station, and a few short minutes stroll from the large, top end, designer Ginza shopping district. This hotel offers excellent business and conference services and rooms, a 20 meter indoor pool, a spa that is manned by very experienced and trained therapists and an array of fine gourmet restaurants. The Peninsula Tokyo Hotel has very spacious, luxury decorated rooms that have deluxe amenities and supported by professional, polite, efficient yet friendly staff.
Spend a half day with your local guide and private vehicle discovering Tokyo’s fascinating sites that juxtapose traditional temples and gardens with futuristic skyscrapers. Begin with a visit to the outside of the Imperial Palace, home of Japan’s Imperial Family. Head to Asakusa, the city’s old town area. Soak up the atmosphere of traditional Tokyo of yesteryear, exploring Tokyo’s oldest and most popular temple, Sensoji Temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple. Sensoji backs onto Nakamise, a shopping street that has provided temple visitors with a variety of traditional, local snacks and souvenirs for centuries.
Drive across the city to the Meiji Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Emperor Meiji and a popular place for traditional Japanese weddings. Japan’s feudal era came to an end during the Meiji period, and the country found itself modernizing and westernizing during this time. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel.
This evening take a stroll around one of Tokyo’s trendiest areas, Akachochin, conveniently located minutes away from Shibuya. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and travel with you by taxi to the Shibuya area. The neighborhood is known for Izakayas, a popular style of casual Japanese pubs filled with locals ranging from their mid-twenties to early forties grabbing a drink and a bite amongst friends, and the symbol of Japanese Izakayas is a red lantern, known as Akachochin. Visit a range of five different restaurants and izakaya to experience some of the authentic food locals enjoy. These are laid-back places with a friendly atmosphere, and interaction between patrons frequently happen (facilitated by your local guide). Dine on Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), sashimi, okonomiyaki (savory pancake), ramen or udon noodles, and cap it off with Japanese ice cream and sake. Food and one drink at each restaurant are included this evening. At the end of the evening, transfer back to your hotel by taxi.
Accommodation: Peninsula TokyoLeave behind the frenetic pace of Tokyo today and head 40 minutes west of Tokyo local guide and a private vehicle to Kawagoe, a small charming city colloquially known as "Little Edo". Kawagoe does a great job of preserving the atmosphere of ancient Edo, the former name of Tokyo.
Wander around the streets in Warehouse District. The main street is lined with Kurazukuri (clay-
Spend your time strolling around the area, snacking as you walk (tabearuki in Japanese) on traditional delicacies such as sweet potato sweets, dried flavored beans, grilled rice balls, chicken skewers and Japanese style soft serve ice cream. Visit a soy sauce factory and learn all about how Japan’s most used seasoning is made. Lastly, enjoy a glass of draft Coedo beer, the locally brewed craft beer, or if you prefer a cup of the local sake.
Japan's culinary scene is a delight for the senses. From elaborate sushi dinners to kaiseki meals, and hundreds of exclusive Michelin star rated restaurants to choose from, the dining options are sure to please even the most discerning of palates. Tonight's dinner reservation has been arranged for you. Transportation to and from the restaurant of your choice will be paid for on the spot, and tonight's meal is not included in your itinerary and is to be paid for at the restaurant. Please note that many fine dining establishments in Japan require a set course menu to be pre-ordered at time of reservation, or a deposit in order to secure a space. If this is the case, you will be advised at time of booking.
Accommodation: Peninsula TokyoLeave behind the hustle and bustle of Tokyo in favor of a day in Hakone, the gateway to Japan’s tallest mountain Mt. Fuji and the surrounding national park. Your local guide will meet you at your hotel this morning and accompany you on your private drive from Tokyo. Spend the day exploring Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, making use of your private vehicle as well as Hakone’s experiential forms of transport. Ride the world’s second longest cable car up Mt. Owakudani, passing over sulfurous fumes, hot springs and hot rivers in this active volcanic area. Sample Hakone’s famous local treat, the black eggs of Owakudani. The eggs are hard boiled in Hakone’s well known sulfuric hot springs, and local legend has it that eating one of these eggs will add seven years to your life. Board a majestic pirate ship and sail across Lake Ashinoko, a lake formed by a volcanic eruption 3000 years ago. Throughout the day there is a chance to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji, however, please keep in mind that she is a notoriously shy mountain and it needs to be a clear day.
Enjoy a hearty, traditional Japanese meal as part of the Ryokan experience, included in the cost of your tour. This will be artfully presented and served to you in the ryokan's dining room, as is the custom in Japan.
Accommodation: Gora KadanA stay in Gora Kadan, a former holiday retreat for the imperial family in the National Park Hakone, is an invitation to bring your five senses to life by submerging yourself in Japan’s most ancient way of life. A true highlight for foodies - it is renowned for serving one of the best 'kaiseki' dinners in all of Japan. In these calm and pleasurable settings, located in an area of springs heated by volcanic sources, you may move from your suite with its minimalist design, to a swimming pool or spa while wearing a Yukata cotton kimono. Treat yourself to a well-earned retreat in the natural beauty of Hakone National Park.
Meet your driver for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.
Relax on the scenic train from Hakone's Odawara station to Kyoto. The train ride is approximately 2 hours.
Meet your guide for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.
Explore the back streets of Kyoto's geisha districts with the leading foreign geisha culture expert, Peter MacIntosh who has spent half his life living in Kyoto. He was married to an ex-geisha, studies Japanese arts and is a lecturer on Geisha Studies at a Kansai University He will discuss the history as well as the present situation of the flower and willow world of Kyoto. All this will be preparing you for entertainment in a traditional geisha teahouse, or ochaya, which is a private, members-only establishment. The maiko/geiko will answer any questions you have as well as perform a dance accompanied by the shamisen. Afterwards some traditional games will be played, followed by photo opportunities. All drinks and snacks are included. Please note “teahouse” is the name of this style of buildings and does not include a tea ceremony, an art that is traditionally not practiced by geisha. Tour ends at the teahouse.
Accommodation: Four Seasons KyotoDiscover the style and vibe of today's Japan with an 800-year-old ikeniwa (pond garden) at its heart – intimate, contemporary Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, in the scenic district of temples. Within light-filled, spacious guest rooms and select Private Hotel Residences, experience personalised, insider access to Kyoto's four-season delights. Double-height windows frame our tranquil garden as you enjoy modern European brasserie dining. Sip local craft beers on the waterside terrace. Cross the glass bridge for matcha in the Tea House. Float in the indoor pool then melt into bliss in the Spa. Conclude successful business behind artisan-carved cedar doors. Or celebrate new beginnings in the soaring, sunlit Chapel.
Spend a half day exploring the scenic Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto with your local guide, traveling by private vehicle. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185) when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. Okochi Mountain Villa is the former villa of the famous samurai film star Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962), and consists of several beautiful gardens and buildings, including living quarters, tea houses and a Zen meditation hall. Take a break here and enjoy some “Matcha” green tea with a snack.
With your energy replenished, take a stroll through Arashiyama’s famous bamboo groves, which are particularly attractive when there is a light wind and the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. The bamboo has been used to manufacture various products, such as baskets, cups, boxes, and mats at local workshops for centuries. Visit Nonomiya Shrine, a Shinto shrine where in ancient times, unmarried imperial princesses stayed for a year or more to purify themselves. Next, visit Tenryuji Temple, ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples, and the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama. Founded in 1339 at the beginning of the Muromachi Period (1338-1573), the temple is one of Kyoto's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to its temple buildings, there are attractive gardens with walking paths. In a traditional building inside the temple grounds overlooking the beautifully landscaped garden, appreciate the experience of a vegetarian "shojin-ryori" (traditional Buddhist cuisine) lunch built around yuba, tofu and seasonal vegetables. At the end of the tour you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Kyoto is home to an impressive 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and two of the most memorable ones are Kinkakuji Temple and Nijo Castle. Meet your local guide in your hotel lobby for a half day tour of Kyoto with a private vehicle. Start with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), which was originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun. After his death in 1408, it became a Buddhist Temple as per the Shogun’s final wishes and is now one of Kyoto’s most famous temples.
Next is Nijo Castle, an ornamental castle that was built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate as his Kyoto residence and is surrounded by stunning surrounding gardens. The main building was completed in 1603 and is famous for its architecture, decorated sliding doors and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors. The castle served as an imperial palace briefly during the 19th century. Next, take a walk through Nishiki Market, a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", this lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi. You may wish to stop for lunch in this area (not included). At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Accommodation: Four Seasons KyotoJapanese cuisine has such high reputation for quality globally that it was declared UNESCO Intangible World Heritage. During this tour, Mr. Hirokazu Nagano, a professional chef, will introduce you to this complex yet simple cuisine while teaching you how to prepare some of Japan’s most famous specialties. Choose one of the following lessons at the time of booking: Sushi Lesson, Soba Lesson or Tempura Lesson. Please note the entire group must choose the same course. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Osaka is one of Japan’s most vibrant cities, and primarily known for its active people - and its food. Your guide will introduce you to the splendors of Osaka’s casual cuisine, venturing into the epicenter of street food culture in Osaka: Dotonbori. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kyoto and taken to Osaka. Dotonbori is a famous pedestrian-only restaurant street in Osaka’s boisterous Namba district. Famous for its vast array of culinary options, Dotonbori is known as a food paradise throughout Japan. Colorful eateries and bars line the neon-filled streets: hole-in-the-wall takoyaki stands and upscale eateries serving the finest wagyu beef – and everywhere, people – young and old – out to enjoy the culinary pleasures of the nation’s most famous restaurant district. You’ll have the chance to sample a variety of local foods, including the famous and ubiquitous takoyaki (commonly known as “octopus dumplings”) and kushikatsu (skewered meats and vegetables). The cost of these - and one drink a piece - is included. Your guide can also take you to a huge variety of other establishments, from ramen noodles to izakaya bars. The cost for your orders here will be on you. Afterwards, you will head back to Kyoto.
Accommodation: Four Seasons KyotoEnjoy a transfer with a private driver from Kyoto to Osaka Kansai International Airport.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport) (standard)Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.
The truly first class Peninsula Tokyo Hotel is located in a business and shopping district, opposite Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace. It is adjacent to Hibiya Subway Station, and a few short minutes stroll from the large, top end, designer Ginza shopping district. This hotel offers excellent business and conference services and rooms, a 20 meter indoor pool, a spa that is manned by very experienced and trained therapists and an array of fine gourmet restaurants. The Peninsula Tokyo Hotel has very spacious, luxury decorated rooms that have deluxe amenities and supported by professional, polite, efficient yet friendly staff.
A stay in Gora Kadan, a former holiday retreat for the imperial family in the National Park Hakone, is an invitation to bring your five senses to life by submerging yourself in Japan’s most ancient way of life. A true highlight for foodies - it is renowned for serving one of the best 'kaiseki' dinners in all of Japan. In these calm and pleasurable settings, located in an area of springs heated by volcanic sources, you may move from your suite with its minimalist design, to a swimming pool or spa while wearing a Yukata cotton kimono. Treat yourself to a well-earned retreat in the natural beauty of Hakone National Park.
Discover the style and vibe of today's Japan with an 800-year-old ikeniwa (pond garden) at its heart – intimate, contemporary Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, in the scenic district of temples. Within light-filled, spacious guest rooms and select Private Hotel Residences, experience personalised, insider access to Kyoto's four-season delights. Double-height windows frame our tranquil garden as you enjoy modern European brasserie dining. Sip local craft beers on the waterside terrace. Cross the glass bridge for matcha in the Tea House. Float in the indoor pool then melt into bliss in the Spa. Conclude successful business behind artisan-carved cedar doors. Or celebrate new beginnings in the soaring, sunlit Chapel.
Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.
The trip was fantastic, well planned, great tour guys. That was a trip of a lifetime and Kensington Tours had done an exceptional well in organizing from the fly to Japan, Hong Kong, Bali & Singapore to the hotels, daily tours with the level of details and places we wouldn't have known where to go. Can't wait for Kensington Tours to organize our 3rd trip in the near future!
Asia Expert Yuki Ng did an amazing job of setting up our trip. She totally understood what we wanted to see and do. My husband, 17-year-old grandson and I spent a week in Seoul in June of 2019. Miriam, also known as CJ, our local guide in Seoul, was fantastic. She was very knowledgeable, friendly and engaging. We totally enjoyed our time with her. We learned so much about the history and culture of Korea and with her expert guidance, we were introduced to many different and delicious Korean foods. Our lunches with her were memorable not only for the variety of restaurants and dishes that we sampled but also for the stimulating and pleasant conversations we shared while eating. She also made several suggestions for things to do in the evening that added to our enjoyment of the city. We were truly fortunate to have Miriam as our guide. Our driver Mr. Jo was also great. He calmly and expertly navigated the congested streets of Seoul and always greeted us with a smile and a pleasant ‘good morning.’ We had not been to Seoul before this trip. We found it to be vibrant, beautiful, and very clean. The people were friendly and helpful. Our accommodations were beyond what we expected. We had a wonderful time in Seoul. We could not have been more pleased.
My trip was a dream come true! From the time I landed in Beijing to the time I landed back to the US, everything was perfect. I traveled alone, but felt very safe and very well taken care of by the guides and drivers I had in the different cities and countries I visited. I learned so much about the culture and heritage of the Chinese, Tibetan and the Nepalese people. It was worth every penny I spend and much more!
I loved it all. Thanks especially to our guide Abit, in Kathmandu, Norenda, in Pokhara, and Min, in the Annapurna region, for being fabulous people. Thanks again for also referring us to Bahari Lodge in Chitwan National park. By far, that was the best place I've ever stayed in all of my international travels: they always had a surprise in store for us, that was awesome. They let us spend as much time as we wanted with the elephants, no rush, and sent elephants to come and play with us when we merely mentioned that we loved them. A great thank you to our naturalis Krishna at Bahari Lodge in Chitwan. All fantastic people who were great with tourists like us. We also enjoyed Temple Tree Resort very much.
This was a GREAT tour to Thailand! It exceeded my expectations in many ways (ie. itinerary, flexibility, and customer service). I would recommend this tour and Kensington Tours to family and friends. I will definitely use Kensington Tours for my future travel plans. My destination expert was Ms. Forkan. She expertly tailored my experience to my needs and wants. She filled in all the "unknowns" and ensured a safe, smooth trip/tour. Her professionalism and support was a 10/10. Thank you Ms. Forkan for designing this trip of a lifetime!
Our guides made our whole trip - we will remember them as much as China itself. Jerry immediately put us at ease and made us feel like his best friends - he was sincere and authentic and open. Katy (in Chengdu) had great energy and showed us how people really live. Even though she must see the pandas every other day of her life, she still seemed to genuinely LOVE seeing them. (And, later, when we discovered we'd left valuables in the safe at our hotel, she went WAY above and beyond to take care of things - even after we were already in Shanghai!). Nancy (in Shanghai) was amazing - we truly enjoyed our time with her and she took us to markets and encouraged us to take our time at the places that interested us most. When we'd seen enough temples, our guides communicated with each other to rearrange our tours in coming destinations. We felt like we were on the food tour of China - the meals were wonderful, and it was - really - TOO MUCH FOOD! No part of our day was wasted, but if we wanted to start later or call it a night sooner, plans were easily rearranged. We would absolutely go with Kensington again!
We had a really interesting trip and your team made it all so easy. Our guides were not only informative, but they took very good care of us. They kept us on schedule with all the city transfers, made the Visa process so quick and introduced us to some of the things they loved about their cities as well as the scheduled sites. There were so many highlights on this trip, but I was especially wowed by the cruise on Ha Long Bay. Our guide in Hanoi went above and beyond on my birthday and arrived to pick us up with some beautiful orchids and a lovely gift. We were very happy with all our accommodations as well.
I was pleasantly surprised and pleased with the superb attention to detail in fulfilling my requests and my dreams
One of the benefits was that the guides were very flexible and suggested and accommodated changes to plans based on the weather and other circumstances. They all said they could do this when working with Kensington because Kensington supported it and empowered them with this flexibility. A big advantage in making the trip perfect!
The whole trip was well organized and we have recommended using Kensington to our friends.
* USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
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