Kurokawa Onsen, Kyushu, Japan – Natural hot-springs experience

Land in the Narita International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Make yourself comfortable at your lodgings and enjoy your free day resting to prepare for your vacation. However, a
night stroll in one of the commercial districts of the modern city is recommended and with a relaxing bath in the Sento (Public/ Communal Bathhouses).

(Includes- breakfast, and Dinner)
(Overnight at Tokyo)

A Coastal town of the Kanagawa Prefecture and less than an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura was earlier a hub of Politics is today known for its various shrines, Temples, etc. Once here be amazed at one of the tallest Bronze statue of Amida Buddha.
Before returning to Tokyo for the night explore the gorgeous hiking trails of Kamakura and see the sites of the hidden city and Benten (Parallel of Saraswati the goddess or Kami of Learning) Temple.

(Includes- breakfast, and dinner)
(Overnight at Tokyo)

After Hiking the previous day, head towards the Fujigoko Five lakes but not before spending the morning at Akihabara or Akiba district- a center for Japan’s Otaku (diehard fan) culture and many shops devoted to anime and manga DVDs collections. Also, splurge on the tax-free electronic stores. Enjoy the breakfast at the maid and anime cosplay cafes (where waiters dress as your favorite anime characters).
Spend the rest of the day at the scenic Fujigoko Five lakes region, that lies at the northern base of Mount Fuji. The five lakes are- Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shojiko, and Motosuko. It is one of the best places to view Mt. Fuji from a close distance and a good base for climbing the Mountain for adventure lovers.
Among the lakes, Kawaguchiko is the most easily accessible and well-developed lake. Observe the Mighty mountain on the Kachi-Kachi ropeway and end your day immersed in the Spring Bath of the resort before returning back to the capital.

(Includes- breakfast, and Dinner)
(Overnight at Tokyo)

Synonymous of Old Japan, Kyoto hosts the highest number of renowned enriching treasures in Japan. The historic and iconic city (only 2 hours away from Tokyo), surrounded by mountains on three sides is a haven for art and history buffs.

Post breakfast, begin your Kyoto sightseeing Kinkakuji or the Golden Pavilion. Built by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu (1358-1408) as a retirement home but after his death changed to Zen temple surrounded by gorgeous Tea Gardens hosting different colors all year round from the bashful shades of Pink Cherry blossoms to the flamboyant hues of autumn- a courtesy of maple and Ginkgo trees.
In the Afternoon, go to the exemplary Kiyomizudera temple that has an impressive 13m tall wooden stage at the front and the Otowa waterfall that is divided into three streams signifying Longevity, Fortune in Love and Success at School (you’re allowed to drink from these). Take some time to explore the handcrafted goods of the adjoining Higashiyama District.

No trip to Kyoto is complete without tasting the Kyo-kaiseki; a local variation of the Haute Japanese Multicourse Cuisine. To enjoy it best head over to Kibune valley for a dining experience over the flowing waters.

(Includes- breakfast, and Dinner)
(Overnight at Kyoto)

Most travelers say that even a month is not enough in Kyoto and we heartily agree, however considering the time limit we provide you with an additional day. After your filling breakfast grab the chance to explore Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa (Grandson of Yoshimitsu) one of 16 UNESCO sites. It, later on, became the house of Genesis of Higashiyama Culture- that includes the Tea Ceremony, Poetry, and Garden Design.

After the tour continue to catch the train to Arashiyama- a picturesque getaway just outskirts of Kyoto. It features the breath-taking bamboo groves (another UNESCO heritage) and spell-binding hikes and temples. Also, enjoy the Scenic Sagano Railway ride over the Hozugawa River. If weather permits you can Cruise back to Arashiyama.
End your Kyoto tour by a terrace dining experience in Pontocho district (10-20 mi from Kyoto station) of the city.

(Includes- breakfast, and Dinner)
(Overnight at Kyoto)

Next up on your itinerary is Osaka- the Capital in the reign of Toyotomi Hideyoshi before the Edo period. Osaka boasts down to earth and friendly ambiance with the dash of unique Culinary to boot!

Post breakfast, explore the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan- a Premier Aquarium that hosts a kaleidoscope of Marine life and provides an opportunity to meet and greet your undersea Friends like stingrays and Dolphins.

After this, visit the Magnificent Osaka castle built by Hideyoshi as a centerpiece of the Toyotomi Clan’s dream to reign over integrated Japan. This Castle standing the test of times is also one of the best Hanami Viewing Spot (Cherry Blossom Viewing) of Osaka.

Spend the evening pursuing the mouth-watering food trail of Shinsekai and Dotombori districts with a vibrant nightlife. One of the must-have street food is Kushikatsu- skewered deep-fried food in a batter with wide range filling of assorted meats to veggies and even fruits and ice-cream. If time permits you can even catch the night shows at the traditional theatres.

(Includes- breakfast, and Dinner)
(Overnight at Osaka)

Early morning take a flight to Fukuoka (Kyushu Island). Fukuoka is known for the lively nightlife and enigmatic cuisine, including the numerous food stalls or ‘Yatai’ set along the river. One of the renowned dishes of the region is Hakata ramen, the authenticity of the platter is unmatched throughout the world.

(Includes- breakfast, and Dinner)
(Overnight at Fukuoka)

Today drive to Kurokawa (3 Hour away from Fukuoka)-a charming small town, lined with ryokan (traditional Japanese Hotels), shops and small shrines. The ryokan of the town is celebrated for their outdoor baths with the spectacular rural scenery. Your ryokan for the night has a beautiful hot spring of its own for a rejuvenating experience. However, if you want to try several different onsens, Kurokawa’s onsen hopping pass, the ‘Nyuto Tegata’ is recommended.

(Includes- breakfast, and Dinner)
(Overnight at Kurokawa)

Today you are going to explore Beppu, one of the biggest hot spring towns in Japan in Oita-“The Onsen Region”. In Beppu, plumes of steam can be seen wafting out of the ground at many points. On top of onsen, Beppu is famous for its ‘Hells’ hot springs that are too hot to bathe in but rather to look at. Go Onsen hopping discovering the numerous varieties from the modern to the very old.
In the evening transfer to Yufuin another lovely hot spring town. It is much smaller than Beppu and has more of a rural feel, although it has many modern conveniences and the main street is great for strolling around, with its cafes and shops selling local crafts and confectioneries. There is also a beautiful lake waiting to be explored only a short stroll away.

(Includes- breakfast, and Dinner)
(Overnight at Yufuin)

Say adios to Japan, as you depart from the rich Country, rekindling the zest of life after the revitalizing holiday. However, do not shy away to come here again to explore the uncovered places.

(Includes- breakfast)