866-501-7477 info@vexploretours.com
866-501-7477 info@vexploretours.com

Explore Hokuriku Route – Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty Unite

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11 Days / 10 Nights
Availability : November 1 - 11, 2026; April 1 - 11, 2027
Tokyo - Toyama - Kanazawa - Kyoto

11 Days / 10 Nights

 

Overview
A journey to experience the captivating blend of Urban excitement and rural serenity. Explore the dynamic energy of bustling cities, where modernity meets tradition, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of picturesque countryside landscapes. This route invites travelers to uncover Japan's rich cultural heritage, vibrant neighborhoods, and breathtaking natural scenery, offering an unforgettable adventure that showcases the best of both worlds.

Price Includes

  • Private transportation as specified in the program
  • Private local English speaking guide in each city
  • Accommodations based on Double/Twin share
  • Meals (excluding drinks) as specified in the itinerary
  • Boat fees & admission fees as specified in the itinerary
  • Bullet train tickets from Tokyo station to Toyama station/ Gran Class
  • Bullet train tickets from Kanazawa station to Tsuruga station/ Green Class
  • Express train tickets from Tsuruga station to Kyoto station/ Green Class
  • Luggage transfer services from Tokyo to Toyama, from Kanazawa to Kyoto
  • Government tax and service charges

Price Excludes

  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities
Itinerary

Day 1Tokyo Arrival

Arrive at Narita International Airport, warmly welcome by your guide and private transfer to the hotel. Check-in hotel.

Day 2Full-Day Tokyo Highlights

Embark on a full-day tour to explore the highlights of Tokyo. Begin by visiting the Imperial Palace East Garden, a beautiful part of the inner palace.  In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Meiji Jingu Shrine, a tranquil oasis in the heart of bustling Tokyo.  Conclude your day by experiencing the vibrant energy of Shibuya and Harajuku, where cutting-edge fashion and pop culture seamlessly blend with luxury shopping and trendy cafes. After an exciting day, return to your hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Breakfast

Day 3Full-Day Tokyo Food & Culture Tours

Experience Tokyo’s culture and cuisine with a private guide using public transportation. Your adventure begins at the Tsukiji outdoor market, a bustling paradise for food lovers. Here, vendors offer everything from fresh seafood to delicious street food snacks. Your guide will help you navigate the market and introduce you to some of the best local dishes.  Next, visit the Sensoji Temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon. This stunning Buddhist temple boasts a rich cultural heritage and is a must-see in the city.  Afterward, enjoy a scenic Sumida River cruise, where you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the Tokyo Skytree, the Asakusa district, Odaiba, and other iconic landmarks.  Finally, explore the Odaiba area, a vibrant shopping and entertainment district located on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay.

**Please note that lunch is not included in the tour price and will need to be paid on-site.**

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4Tokyo - Toyama

Proceed to Tokyo station, take a Hokuriku Shinkansen to TOYAMA, selected by the NY Times as “52 places to GO” in 2025. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in Toyama City with a tour that begins at the Glass Art Museum. Transfer to your small luxury hotel. Enjoy a unique stay that seamlessly blends contemporary art, natural hot springs, and exquisite fine dining.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5Full Day Toyama Highlights

Embark on a journey to experience Toyama’s profound cultural heritage and enduring traditions. Your first stop is the national treasure, Zuiryuji Temple, an architectural marvel that embodies both Zen austerity and Edo-period sophistication. Conclude your cultural immersion at the Saburomaru Whisky Distillery, where you’ll learn about the hidden gem’s history and unique character, shaped by Toyama’s pristine water, lush greenery, and distinctive culture. Return to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6Toyama - Gokayama - Kanazawa

Head to the UNESCO-listed Gokayama, where you’ll step into a pocket of unexplored history amidst its carefully preserved gassho-zukuri buildings. You will have the opportunity to experience Washi, traditional Japanese papermaking. Afterwards, transfer to Kanazawa for an afternoon city tour. Explore the vibrant Omi Market and stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, renowned as one of Japan’s “three most beautiful gardens.” Check into the hotel, enjoying the rest of the day at your own pace.

Breakfast

Day 7Full-Day Kanazawa Highlights

Your day begins with a visit to the historic Nagamachi Samurai District, where you’ll step back in time amidst preserved residences, earthen walls, private entrance gates, narrow lanes, and serene water canals. Afterward, continue your discovery at Higashi Chayagai, one of Kanazawa’s largest geisha districts. You can also visit a gold leaf shop to witness the intricate process and even decorate your souvenirs like chopsticks, small plates, or mirrors. After returning to the hotel, the remainder of the day is free at leisure.

Breakfast

Day 8Kanazawa - Kyoto

Proceed to Kanazawa Station. Your journey to Kyoto begins with a bullet train to Tsuruga, followed by a connection to an express train to Kyoto. Upon arrival, half-day tour begins with a visit to Kiyomizu Temple, known as the “Temple of Pure Water.” Explore its iconic wooden stage and the charming historic cobblestone streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, which perfectly capture the essence of old Kyoto with their traditional Japanese buildings. Afterward, continue to the Gion district, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district. This area is brimming with traditional shops, restaurants, and teahouses where geiko and maiko entertain. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a maiko gracefully walking through the streets.

Breakfast

Day 9Full Day Kyoto Culture Tour & Tea Ceremony

Immerse yourself in a traditional tea ceremony at Machiya. Then, off to the Arashiyama area. Wander through its iconic bamboo forest and discover the serene Tenryu-ji Temple. Enjoy a Shojin Ryori, Zen vegetarian lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Textile Center, renowned for its exquisite kimono designs and fashion shows. Conclude your day with a visit to the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates – a site also featured in Memoirs of a Geisha.

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Breakfast, Lunch

 

Day 10Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto

Embark on a captivating half-day tour of Nara’s World Heritage Sites. Begin at Todai-ji Temple, home to the awe-inspiring Great Buddha, and wander through Nara Park, where you’ll encounter friendly wild deer up close. Conclude your visit with a special exploration of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, admiring its historic gates, structures, and enchanting corridors adorned with countless hanging lanterns. Return to the hotel and the remainder of the day is free at leisure.

Breakfast

Day 11 Kyoto - Osaka Kansai International Airport

Transfer to Kansai International Airport for your departure flight.

Breakfast

Photos

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