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LGBTQ+GAY GETAWAYS TUSCAn+Apulian FIAT 500 Journey
Day 1
Arezzo
Arrive by train to Arezzo and enjoy private transfer to Fontelunga, where we’ve arranged a vintage FIAT 500 rental for your exciting journey ahead. The next morning, Paolo will join you shopping in the nearby village of Pozzo and we’ll tour some of the lovely hillside towns nearby. Return to the main resort of Fontelunga for a festive, Friday night dinner party celebration with Paolo, Philip and other guests.
FontelungaThe magical, Fontelunga is known to some as a hidden gem, one of the loveliest, boutique properties in the Chiana Valley. Owners and life partners Paolo & Philip have deep ties to the region and have continued to raise the bar at the main boutique palazzo, 2, spartan, stand alone villas, and a stunning, new option, a villa/resort hybrid Borgo 69, which marries 12, modern, boutique villas, with 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms along with a lovely resort pool, chic Emporio di Ines restaurant, pool, and wrap around services one would desire in a resort, yet with the benefits of a private villa. Day 2 MontepulcianoYour local guide will take you though the important sites and residences of the Medici family including the Palazzo Avignonesi. We’ve arranged a private tour of Tales and Ercolani Azienda Agricola wine cellars to enjoy, firsthand the Nobile di Montepulciano this afternoon.
Day 3 PienzaA valley town on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage, Val d’ Orcia, Pienza is a stunning walled town with early renaissance palazzi. We take you inside with your private guide, to the 3 palaces, focusing on Rosselino’s finest Renaissance Palazzo Piccolomini to view the private apartments, gardens and art. Day 4 Bagno VignoniToday we head south of Montepulciano down the Via Cassia, the old Roman road to the thermal spa down of Bagno Vignoni. Enjoy lunch on the square followed by an all day pampering at Le Terme Spa. Day 5 Montalcino
Home to the infamous Brunello wine, Montalcino is also an important Etruscan site surrounded by vineyards, spires and elegant stone walls. We have your private guide reveal Etruscan monuments. Later we have arranged The Vertical Tasting, an extraordinary experience to enjoy 6 of the finest vintages of Brunello di Montalcino, complimented with local, Percoino cheese, Tuscan bread and house-made extra virgin olive oil and honey at the renowned Castiglion del Bosco Winery. Day 6 Drive from Fontelunga to Paragon 700 Check in to the new Paragon 700 in the White City of Ostuni. Paragon 700 is a new, very LGBTQ+ welcoming property, an 18th century manse, managed by Laura Stopani who’s helmed some of Italy’s finest. The boutique property is a stunning, historical, red palazzo in the byzantine, white city of Ostuni. The sumptuous rooms are filled with cathedral ceilings, private terraces, balconies and more. The expansive garden and citrus orchard is complemented by Ostni’s only outdoor swimming pool. But they don’t stop there, they also have a full service P Beach Club and sumptuous spa converted from an underground cistern. Unwind and enjoy dinner reservations and the Tasting Menu at the renowned Restaurant 700 in the gorgeous stone chamber that once housed a centuries old oil-mill. After dinner enjoy Ostuni’s largest private orange grove and garden for desert. Day 7 Torre Guaceto Gay Beach Day Torre Guaceto is a nature reserve that boasts azure waters and a lovely gay beach for a freeing day of clothing optional enjoyment. Today is to unwind, relax and enjoy the sand and sea. Day 8 Private Yacht Excursion The P Boat, a 15-meter private yacht, is chartered for you today for an adventure on the Adriatic Sea. Your captain and crew will take you for a lovely tour of nature, The Tremiti Islands and ending at the infamous gay beaches of D’Ayala Beach, Campomarino di Maruggio, just an hour north of Gallipoli. We take in a late afternoon lunch in Campomarino before heading back to the resort’s P Beach Restaurant on beach, nearby Specchiolla. Day 9 Motorbike Tour Today we have arranged a custom, motorbike tory through the olive groves, seasides and medieval roads. Local guide Valentina, affectionately known as TraVale will guide you through the Valle d’Itria, Salento and Gargano Coastline and Sea Caves. On our way back, we stop for lunch at Ristorante Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare. Day 10 Apulian Cooking Class Tonight’s highlight is a hands-on private cooking class with Chef Giacomo Simone. After a visit to the local market to pickup fish, vegetables and staples, the chef shares some generations old family recipes. Afterwards, enjoy some Susumaniello, Negromaro and Primitivo Apulia wine tasting in their palazzo’s wine cellar along with cured meats and cheeses.
Arrive by train to Arezzo and enjoy private transfer to Fontelunga, where we’ve arranged a vintage FIAT 500 rental for your exciting journey ahead. The next morning, Paolo will join you shopping in the nearby village of Pozzo and we’ll tour some of the lovely hillside towns nearby. Return to the main resort of Fontelunga for a festive, Friday night dinner party celebration with Paolo, Philip and other guests.
FontelungaThe magical, Fontelunga is known to some as a hidden gem, one of the loveliest, boutique properties in the Chiana Valley. Owners and life partners Paolo & Philip have deep ties to the region and have continued to raise the bar at the main boutique palazzo, 2, spartan, stand alone villas, and a stunning, new option, a villa/resort hybrid Borgo 69, which marries 12, modern, boutique villas, with 1, 2 or 3 bedrooms along with a lovely resort pool, chic Emporio di Ines restaurant, pool, and wrap around services one would desire in a resort, yet with the benefits of a private villa. Day 2 MontepulcianoYour local guide will take you though the important sites and residences of the Medici family including the Palazzo Avignonesi. We’ve arranged a private tour of Tales and Ercolani Azienda Agricola wine cellars to enjoy, firsthand the Nobile di Montepulciano this afternoon.
Day 3 PienzaA valley town on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage, Val d’ Orcia, Pienza is a stunning walled town with early renaissance palazzi. We take you inside with your private guide, to the 3 palaces, focusing on Rosselino’s finest Renaissance Palazzo Piccolomini to view the private apartments, gardens and art. Day 4 Bagno VignoniToday we head south of Montepulciano down the Via Cassia, the old Roman road to the thermal spa down of Bagno Vignoni. Enjoy lunch on the square followed by an all day pampering at Le Terme Spa. Day 5 Montalcino
Home to the infamous Brunello wine, Montalcino is also an important Etruscan site surrounded by vineyards, spires and elegant stone walls. We have your private guide reveal Etruscan monuments. Later we have arranged The Vertical Tasting, an extraordinary experience to enjoy 6 of the finest vintages of Brunello di Montalcino, complimented with local, Percoino cheese, Tuscan bread and house-made extra virgin olive oil and honey at the renowned Castiglion del Bosco Winery. Day 6 Drive from Fontelunga to Paragon 700 Check in to the new Paragon 700 in the White City of Ostuni. Paragon 700 is a new, very LGBTQ+ welcoming property, an 18th century manse, managed by Laura Stopani who’s helmed some of Italy’s finest. The boutique property is a stunning, historical, red palazzo in the byzantine, white city of Ostuni. The sumptuous rooms are filled with cathedral ceilings, private terraces, balconies and more. The expansive garden and citrus orchard is complemented by Ostni’s only outdoor swimming pool. But they don’t stop there, they also have a full service P Beach Club and sumptuous spa converted from an underground cistern. Unwind and enjoy dinner reservations and the Tasting Menu at the renowned Restaurant 700 in the gorgeous stone chamber that once housed a centuries old oil-mill. After dinner enjoy Ostuni’s largest private orange grove and garden for desert. Day 7 Torre Guaceto Gay Beach Day Torre Guaceto is a nature reserve that boasts azure waters and a lovely gay beach for a freeing day of clothing optional enjoyment. Today is to unwind, relax and enjoy the sand and sea. Day 8 Private Yacht Excursion The P Boat, a 15-meter private yacht, is chartered for you today for an adventure on the Adriatic Sea. Your captain and crew will take you for a lovely tour of nature, The Tremiti Islands and ending at the infamous gay beaches of D’Ayala Beach, Campomarino di Maruggio, just an hour north of Gallipoli. We take in a late afternoon lunch in Campomarino before heading back to the resort’s P Beach Restaurant on beach, nearby Specchiolla. Day 9 Motorbike Tour Today we have arranged a custom, motorbike tory through the olive groves, seasides and medieval roads. Local guide Valentina, affectionately known as TraVale will guide you through the Valle d’Itria, Salento and Gargano Coastline and Sea Caves. On our way back, we stop for lunch at Ristorante Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare. Day 10 Apulian Cooking Class Tonight’s highlight is a hands-on private cooking class with Chef Giacomo Simone. After a visit to the local market to pickup fish, vegetables and staples, the chef shares some generations old family recipes. Afterwards, enjoy some Susumaniello, Negromaro and Primitivo Apulia wine tasting in their palazzo’s wine cellar along with cured meats and cheeses.
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JAPAN FOODIE ADVENTURE
Tokyo
4:45 pm Arrival in Tokyo at Narita Airport on Flight JAL 61 Private Vehicle from Narita Airport to Hotel Trunk Tokyo in bustling Shibuya
Day 1 Tokyo9:30 am to 1:30 pm Half Day Guide (4 hours) Guide in Tokyo, Subways for Touring in Tokyo Tsukiji Outer MarketWhile the wholesale fish market has been relocated to its new Toyosu location, Tsukiji's Outer Market is as busy and bustling as ever. The Outer Market is a mixture of wholesale and retail shops selling everything from carrots to cakes, pottery to kitchen knives. It is also filled to the brim with restaurants serving the freshest sushi and sashimi. In contrast to Toyosu's new ultra-modern facility, Tsukiji's Outer Market retains an essence of traditional charm that makes it well worth a visit. GinzaGinza is Tokyo's most famous upmarket shopping, dining and entertainment district, featuring numerous department stores, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, night clubs and cafes. One square meter of land in the district's center is worth over ten million yen, making it one of the most expensive real estate in Japan. It is where you can find the infamous $10 cups of coffee and where virtually every leading brand name in fashion and cosmetics has a presence. From 1612 to 1800, today's Ginza district was the site of a silver coin mint, after which the district was eventually named. Ginza evolved as an upmarket shopping district following the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. Most shops in the Ginza district are open every day of the week. Ginza Depachika (Basement) Food FloorsIf you are feeling a bit hungry, or just interested in food, the depachika (basement floors) of department stores are filled with foods of all kinds. Most are already prepared and ready to take away and eat at home, which is exactly what many people do in order to balance busy work and home lives. A mouthwatering mix of Japanese and western dishes, sweets, and snacks await. Ramen Dinner TourDuring this personalized 2-3 hour ramen tour, your expert guide will take you to some of Tokyo's hidden ramen shops for lunch or late afternoon meal. He will take you to two ramen restuarants, one for a thick, rich bowl of ramen and one lighter bowl. Ask him any question about ramen and he will be able to answer. Meet your ramen expert in your hotel lobby. Day 2 Tokyo9:30 am to 5:00 pm Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in Tokyo Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Private Vehicle (8 hours) Sensoji Temple & Kaminarimon Gate / NakamisedoriSensoji Temple, possibly one of the most photographed structures in the city. An official temple was built in 645AD, making it not only the oldest temple in Tokyo, but among the oldest in Japan. Sadly, after standing for 1300 years, it fell to the bombings of WWII, only to be rebuilt during the aftermath as a symbol of peace and resurrection to the Japanese people. Today, millions of visitors pass through the Kaminarimon or Thunder Gate annually, known for the huge brightly painted lantern dominating the entrance. Just beyond Sensoji’s Kaminarimon you’ll find yourself on the Nakamisedori, a vibrant shopping street lined with souvenir shops selling everything from Samurai swords to paper fans, and all manner of snacks and trinkets. teamLab PlanetOne of Japan’s most creative spaces, this art encounter places you within large scale installations that combine digital and physical media. The variety here is impressive, with infinity rooms of digital light, knee-deep illuminated water, and mazelike cavernous halls of huge balloons. There are plenty of memorable surprises in this uniquely Japanese art space – and all highly Instagrammable. Roppongi HillsRoppongi Hills is one of the best examples of a city within the city. The building complex in the Roppongi district is home to an amalgamation of offices, apartments, shops, restaurants, a hotel, the Mori Museum, a view deck and more. The 238 meter Mori tower at the center is one of the tallest buildings in the city. Just behind the tower and hotel is Mori Garden, and TV Asahi is also located on the site. Mori Art MuseumThe 238 meter Mori tower at the center of Roppongi Hills is one of the tallest buildings in the city. The Mori Art Museum, located near the top of Mori Tower, shows innovative exhibitions of international contemporary art. Tokyo MidtownAt the heart of Roppongi's arts district, Tokyo Midtown feels almost like a city in itself. Home to a sophisticated mix of shops, galleries, and residences, it is a pleasant area to explore. The main shopping mall features international restaurants, a dining terrace, and a range of stores from everyday essentials to luxury boutiques. The complex also contains many museums and art galleries. Their top floor features interior design and houseware shops as well as the Suntory Museum of Art, a modern space with beautiful city views that displays traditional works. Night Activity: ShinjukuShinjuku is one of the 23 city wards of Tokyo, but is often referred to as the huge entertainment, business, and shopping area around Shinjuku Station. Colorful signs decorate the narrow streets at all stories, blocking out the city sky and filling it with life. More than 2 million passengers go through Shinjuku Station every day, making it the busiest railway station in Tokyo, which effectively makes it the busiest railway station in the world. Shinjuku's skyscraper district is home to many of Tokyo's tallest buildings, including several premier hotels, the twin towers of the Metropolitan Government Office, and is also home to famous game companies, such as Square Enix (right outside Higashi-Shinjuku station). Dinner at Kaiseki Komuro With flavors of cha-kaiseki, a meal served during a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Since opening in 2000, the two Michelin star restaurant has become a gem for urban gourmands that long to immerse themselves in the beauty of the seasons. Day 3 Tokyo9:30 am to 5:30 pm Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in Tokyo Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Nezu Museum The collection on display at the Nezu Museum once belonged to Nezu Kaichiro, an industrialist and former president of the Tobu Railroad. Although he enjoyed everything from delicate calligraphy to Chinese bronzes, the center of the collection concerns “the way of tea.” There are several authentic teahouses scattered throughout the extensive gardens, as well as many lovely artifacts. A collection of painted folding screens in the Rinpa style is not to be missed. The museum’s grounds are a highlight as well. Designed by Kengo Kuma, one of Japan’s brightest architectural stars, the soaring roof and strategic use of glass and steel create a perfect setting for the works within. OmotesandoWhile Paris has the Champs-Élysées and New York has Fifth Avenue, Tokyo has Omotesando. Running from Harajuku to Aoyama-dori, the wide boulevard is home to some of the city’s most intriguing architecture. Many of the buildings are fashion houses built by a veritable Who’s Who of Japanese and international architects, including Jun Aoki’s Louis Vuitton, Toyo Ito’s Tod’s, SANAA’s Dior, Herzog & de Meuron’s Prada, and Tadao Ando’s Omotesando Hills. Whether you’re shopping or simply strolling, the tree-lined street offers generous visual stimulation and plenty of opportunities to leave a few yen behind. HarajukuHarajuku is the epicenter of Japanese street-fashion and fashion subcultures. The neighborhood's modern identity stems from the post-war history of the area, but its continuous development is heavily reliant on today's youth culture trends. The Harajuku area is divided by a boulevard called, Meiji-dori, which separates its two main areas: Takeshita Street and Ura-Harajuku. The side most internationally associated with Harajuku is Takeshita Street an extremely popular pedestrian street overflowing with fashion boutiques, sweet crepe stands, innovative snack shops, photobooths, and fast food outlets marketed to tweens and teens. Even though many of Takeshita Street's energetic trends are starting cross over to the other side, Ura-Harajuku has retained a more relaxed atmosphere. Its streets lie behind Omotesando and are filled with high-end vintage shops, street-fashion brands flagship stores, privately-owned boutiques, and cafes. ShibuyaShibuya is one of the twenty-three city wards of Tokyo, but often refers to just the popular shopping and entertainment area found around Shibuya Station. In this regard, Shibuya is one of Tokyo's most colorful and busy districts, packed with shopping, dining and nightclubs serving swarms of visitors that come to the district every day. Outside of the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station lies Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. It’s referred to as a "scramble" because traffic is stopped in all directions to allow pedestrians to walk through the intersection, resulting in a true human scramble. DaikanyamaThis area of Tokyo is just one station away from busy Shibuya but has a very different atmosphere with small high-end boutiques, restaurants and cafés sharing the space with embassies, high-class residential areas and Hillside Terrace, the symbol of Daikanyama. The laidback vibe and trendy fashion found here has made it a hot spot among the hip crowds of Tokyo but remains a pleasant counterpart to the busy streets of Shibuya. Tempura Cooking Class This private cooking lesson from the head chef of one of Tokyo’s best tempura restaurants is the ideal way for travelers to experience Tokyo gastronomy at its finest. The tempura restaurant is located inside a former geisha house in a historical Tokyo district. You will learn cooking techniques from the head chef himself, and explore this Japanese specialty’s rich history by tasting and comparing Edo-period vs. contemporary tempura. As part of the class, participants enjoy a full course meal with a sake pairing personally selected by the chef. Dinner at Sushi Saito Chef Takahashi Saito is at the helm here with 3 Michelin stars and near impossible to get seating. Booked in The Private Room, you will enjoy such delicacies as bonito sashimi, tender simmered octopus, kuruma-ebi shrimp and more. Day 4 HakoneLuggage Transfer to Kyoto (up to 2 pieces) During check-out please leave up to 2 pieces of luggage to be sent ahead to your Kyoto accommodation. Please note that the bullet train will not have designated luggage space. Please pack a smaller bag for your night in Hakone at new, exclusive, DESIGN HOTELS Hakone Retreat före & villa 1/f 9:30 am Private Vehicle Transfer to Shinagawa StationYour driver will meet you in the hotel lobby. 10:30 am Depart: Shinagawa (Kodama #), Green Car Arrive: Odawara 11:30 am to 4:30 pm Full Day Guide (5 hours) Guide in Hakone Your guide will meet you on the train platform upon arrival Old Tokaido Walking TrailWelcome to the Old Tokaido road, a highway which once linked Tokyo and Kyoto during the feudal Edo Period. Today, you can enjoy a beautiful cedar-lined passage of the road along the shore of Lake Ashinoko. Even a short walk down the cobbled highway for a few minutes is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the nature and history of the area. Visitors desiring a longer walk can continue deeper into the mountains towards the restored Amazakechaya Teahouse. Hakone ShrineHakone Shrine stands at the foot of Mount Hakone along the shores of Lake Ashi. The shrine buildings are hidden in the dense forest but are well advertised by its huge torii gates, with one standing prominently in the lake and the other two over the main street of Moto-Hakone. Hakone Open Air MuseumHakone Open Air Museum views itself as a harmonious mix of nature and art. This museum allows visitors to experience the beautiful mountainous backdrop of Hakone while viewing numerous sculptures and art exhibits spread out across the museum’s grounds. The main building of the museum features works by various artists including Picasso. Itoh Dining by NOBU Teppanyaki prepared on an iron plate of premium Kuroge Wagyu beef and Tsukiji seafood are the highlights here, set amongst the lush Hakone Forest in the Agora Hills. Day 5 Kyoto Transfer to your hotel, a stay at luxury royokan Yoshida-Sanso, the historical university villa of Prince Higashifushimi. GionGion is Kyoto's most famous geisha district located near Maruyama Park. The district has a number of traditional machiya townhouses where geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) enter and exit in the evening when entertaining guests. Lucky visitors might catch a glimpse of a geisha on her way to her next appointment. Tea with Maiko Enjoy tea, conversation, and a short performance from one of the few professional maiko (geisha-in-training) still active in Kyoto. The teenage maiko will explain in detail about her life and what it takes to become a geisha – a rare opportunity that many travelers never have a chance to experience. This unique meeting is a great way to enjoy geisha culture in the former capital of Kyoto. You can take a photo with the maiko as well. Dinner at Gion Nishikawa Michelin 2 Star Chef Masayoshi Nishikawa crafts unique, seasonal Kaiseki dishes and offers vibrant counter seating to interact and watch the chef's magic. Day 6 Kyoto9:30 am to 5:30 pm Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in Kyoto, Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Private Vehicle (8 hours) Otagi Nenbutsuji TempleOtagi Nenbutsuji Temple is one of Kyoto’s hidden gems due to its isolated location and a unique display of Buddhist art. Although the roots of this temple go back to the 8th century, the current grounds were revitalized in the modern era by Kocho Nishimura, a respected Buddhist artist and priest. In the 1980s, he invited worshippers to this small mountain temple to learn the techniques of stone carving to create 1,200 Rakan (a disciple of Buddha) statues that are now on display at the temple. No two statues are the same, with many depicting lighthearted and comical features that you rarely find in Buddhist art. From singing priests and parents cradling babies to acrobats and surfers, all walks of life are present in stone at Otagi Nenbutsuji. Nishimura’s family continues to care for the temple and carry on his legacy of blending personal expression through art with the teachings of the Buddha. Saga-Toriimoto StreetOne of Kyoto’s best-kept secrets is this quiet district tucked away in the hills on the western rim of the city. A long street runs through a preserved village with rows of charming wooden houses below forested slopes. This is a rare chance to see a grouping of original thatched roof houses so close to the city. Many of these farmhouses are from the Meiji-era (late 1800s/early 1900s) and remain in their original state. At the top of the street is a lovely traditional teahouse with a mossy thatched roof and impressive torii gate. Along the road are several quaint shops selling regional crafts, including bamboo goods, pottery, and whimsical local folkart made from the cocoons of silkworms. Arashiyama Bamboo GroveThe walking paths that cut through the bamboo groves make for a nice walk or bicycle ride. The groves 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. Shojin Ryori lunch at IzusenEnjoy traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine (shojin-ryori in Japanese) in a charming restaurant on the backstreets of the quiet Sagano district. The vegetarian fare is sure to delight and surprise both your tastebuds and eyes. Okochi Sanso VillaThis samurai-style villa is the former home and garden of the famous Japanese film actor Denjiro Okochi (1898-1962), known for his roles are fierce samurai in the early silent film days. The beautiful garden is dotted with rustic teahouses and hidden pathways that open onto expansive city views. One of the best spots for early autumn leaves in Arashiyama, the villa also has a rest area where matcha tea and unique sweets are served. Kinkakuji TemplePerhaps best known in English as the “Temple of the Golden Pavilion,” this icon of Kyoto rises above a quiet reflecting pond, shimmering in its layers of gold leaf regardless of the weather. A remainder of a former villa of the Shogun, the pavilion successfully incorporates three distinctly grand architectural styles: Shinden, Samurai, and Zen. Rebuilt in the mid-20th century, Kinkakuji remains the epitome of Kyoto's gilded past as the cultural capital of the nation. The layout of the garden is based on ancient Chinese writings, and the stones of the main pond serves as a representation of the Japanese islands themselves. As a whole, the entire landscape serves as a fine example of the magnificent villa that once occupied this space Candlelit Tea Ceremony & RitualAs dusk falls and the city begins to settle, enter the traditional home of our in-house tea expert for a special experience. Candles light your way through the garden as you remove your shoes and step into a charming tea room. This special ocassion is multifaceted and focuses on more than just tea. You’ll begin with a glass of local sake paired with two light seasonal foods as a way to better understand the culinary culture of Kyoto. Purified by the sake, you are ready to move on to the main event: an informative tea ceremony served with sweets. Your host will explain the meaning behind the ritual and how it ties to both the mundane world and the spiritual realm. This is an ideal pre-dinner activity to whet the appetite and learn about an important element of Japanese culture. Dinner at Hyotei 3 * Hyotei's enchanted history spans over 450 years, originally a teahouse neraby Nanzen-ji Temple. Two generations of creative cuisine are helmed by celebrated owner/chef Yoshihiro Takahashi. Day 7 Kyoto9:30 am to 5:30 pm Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in Kyoto, Private Vehicle (8 hours) Downtown ShijoThe Shijo district in downtown Kyoto is the lively heart of the city where locals come to shop, stroll, and unwind. Fashionable Shijo Dori Street is lined with brand name shops and upscale department stores like Daimaru and Takashimaya. To the north is Sanjo Dori Street, a much more compact avenue with hip boutiques, cafés, and local craft shops tucked in between wooden homes and everyday Kyoto scenery. Between these two areas runs Teramachi, a covered shopping arcade filled with eateries and shops. The downtown Shijo district is perfect for shoppers and peoplewatchers looking to get a feel for the pulse of Kyoto. Teramachi Street Teramachi was created in the 16th century as part of an effort by the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi to control the Buddhist clergy by relocating their temples to a single area in Kyoto. Now home to art galleries, bookshops, clothing shops and Kyoto specialist stores featuring a Kyoto twist on Japanese goods such as wagashi (confections), noren (curtains), furoshiki (beautiful cloth wraps), ohashi (chopsticks), and ceramics, Teramachi also features excellent tea houses and a variety of restaurants. It is also a mecca for fans of anime and manga with several stores dedicated to merchandise and books of all the well-known series and characters. Sanjusangendo TempleHidden behind a nondescript temple wall is one of the city’s most impressive treasures: Sanjusangendo, the hall of 1001 golden statues of the goddess Kannon. The central image of Kannon in the middle of the temple is a towering masterpiece, as are the 28 guardians that flank her. Originally built in the 12th century to house this stunning collection, it also hosted legendary archery competitions where participants would shoot arrows down the entire length of the 120 meter wooden hall. In 1604, legend has it that the famous samurai Musashi Miyamoto and Yoshioka Denshichiro, leader of a rival martial arts family, fought a duel at the temple gates. Inspiring as both an architectural and artistic wonder, Sanjusangendo is a standout landmark in Kyoto. Ninenzaka and SannenzakaThe streets Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka in Higashiyama are lined by small shops, cafes and restaurants which have been catering to tourists and pilgrims for centuries. These businesses retain their traditional design, although many have been renovated through the years, and they continue to serve customers today, selling local specialties such as Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, sweets, pickles, crafts and other souvenirs.The shops and restaurants in the area typically open around nine or ten in the morning and close relatively early around five or six in the evening. Dinner at Restaurant Gion SasakiPraised as “Sasaki Theater,” this one-and-only Japanese restaurant has become a long-run hit on the old strip of Gion. With charisma and passion, Chef Hiroshi Sasaki has transformed his kitchen into a stage where he performs a new kind of culinary entertainment, packed with fun and surprises. Day 8 Osaka9:30 am Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in KyotoPrivate Vehicle (8 hours) Fushimi Inari ShrinePerhaps one of Japan’s most recognizable symbols, the endless wending of thousands of vermillion torii mark this well-known shrine. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, Fushimi is one of Kyoto’s oldest structures, erected even prior to the establishment of the capital in 794AD. Visitors mainly come to wander through the trails of torii, but the main buildings are also of architectural interest as are the dozens of fox statues dotting the grounds. Perhaps the most famous of all the gates donated to Fushimi is the Romon Gate, presented by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s three great unifiers in 1589. Fushimi Sake DistrictFushimi District is a sake-brewing district in southern Kyoto with a retro laid-back atmosphere. Canals lined with willow trees and historic breweries make for a scenic and calm getaway from the busier areas of Kyoto. The district's underground springs provide the clean water for sake making and many of Kyoto's most delicious sakes come from Fushimi. The famous shrine in the area, Fushimi Inari, is dedicated to the god of rice, the main ingredient in sake making. Some of the traditional sake breweries have been converted into stylish restaurants and cafes serving local sakes and craft beers. These restaurants make for an enjoyable place to stop in and enjoy a drink while touring the area Sake Brewery Visit with Sake Expert Prepare to go deep into the world of Japanese sake with the owner of a local hole- in-the-wall bar who speaks exceptional English and is very passionate about Japanese alcohol. As a recognized expert who has lectured at universities and cultural centers, Mr. Asakura will accompany you on a visit a local sake brewery or two, providing a private experience the likes of which are unavailable elsewhere in Kyoto on such a personal level. You’ll learn how sake is produced and the history behind the drink, as well as stop to sample some of the city’s finest vintages. Mr. Asakura’s ability to educate and entertain will impress, and even sake novices will walk away with a deep understanding of Japan’s favorite potent beverage. Todaiji Temple and MuseumUntil 1998, this World Heritage Site was the world’s largest wooden building. Although destroyed twice by fire, the temple’s current structures have been standing since 1709. Todaiji Temple is home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha, which is said to have depleted Japan of every last ounce of bronze to build. The new Todai-ji Museum opened in 2011. It is full of temple treasures, religious art, and objects of deep cultural significance. There are several large statues of the Buddha, as well as rotating exhibitions on Buddhism-oriented themes. Dinner at Shunsaiten Tsuchiya, 2 Michelin stars, considered the best specialty temupura, featuring Chef “Beautiful and delicious”, Shunsaiten Tsuchiya. Day 9 Osaka Transfer to your hotel, St Regis Osaka, a boutique gem right in the heart of Honmachi. 9:30 am to 1:30 pm Half Day Guide (4 hours) Guide in OsakaPrivate Vehicle (4 hours) Shinsekai DistrictVisiting Shinsekai is like entering a time capsule. A popular entertainment district since 1912, the spirit of the area has hardly changed since the postwar reconstruction boom of the 1950s. The only old architectural attraction that remains is 104m Tsutenkaku Tower, but the streets are densely packed with traditional Japanese restaurants tracing their heritage back to the beginnings of the district. The overblown outdoor advertising is decidedly 1960s in style and traditional Kansai restaurants dominate the streets. This is an opportunity to try plenty of local fare like takoyaki (octopus dumplings), okonomiyaki (Kansai pancakes) and especially kushi- katsu (deep-fried meat or vegetables on a wooden stick). Umeda Sky BuildingThe Umeda Sky Building is Osaka’s most iconic building. Designed by Hiroshi Hara, the Japanese architect who also designed Kyoto Station, the 173-meter shiny high- rise structure of glass and steel consists of two separate towers joined at the top by a ring-like observation deck. This open deck, known as the Floating Garden Observatory, offers 360 degree panoramic views of Osaka and is a great way to see the whole city. It is reached by using the world’s highest escalator. The rest of the building is a popular recreation spot with gardens and restaurants. The basement of the building has a selection of eateries organized in narrow alleys designed to reflect a retro early twentieth century style. Sumo Match in Osaka Enjoy an afternoon watching the Sumo Grand Championship at EDION Arena, and discover how exciting this unique sport can be in a live setting. Sumo has ancient roots that initially saw it as a religious ceremony, and many of these traditions are still a part of the matches today. For example, the wrestlers – known as rikishi – throw salt into the ring as they enter to purify the space. Keep your eyes open in between matches as well for all the pageantry and tradition that goes into announcing the rikishi and their entrances into the arena. With its simple rules and constant moments of drama, sumo wrestling will surely find a way to pummel itself into your heart. Don’t be surprised if you exit the arena a newly-minted fan of Japan’s national sport. Private Guided Evening Food Tour in Osaka Get ready to experience some of Japan’s best casual cuisine as you sample your way through the city natives like to call 'Japan’s kitchen'. Osaka is home to some incredible dishes, and your private guide from the city’s best food tours knows all the top spots to eat in the busy Namba and Dotombori districts, including some insider gems. The ever-evolving menu can include takoyaki, okonomiyaki, sashimi, tempura, yakitori, as well as some of Japan’s finest sake and beer to wash it all down. Day 10 Osaka9:30 am to 2:30 pm Half Day Guide (5 hours) Guide in Osaka,Private Vehicle (5 hours) Finish at Itami Airport Cup Noodles MuseumThis museum is dedicated to the history of instant ramen in Japan, and to the founder of instant ramen Momofuku Ando. In 1958, he invented the world's first 'Chicken Ramen' instant noodles after an entire year of research using common tools in a little shed he had built in his backyard in Ikeda-city, Osaka Prefecture. He also invented Cup Noodles in 1971 and Space Ramen (literally ramen that can be eaten in space) in 2005. The museum features a number of interactive exhibits and some interesting workshops. My CUPNOODLES FactoryThis section of the museum enables you to create your own completely original CUPNOODLES package. You will have the opportunity to design your cup, choose your soup and noodle toppings, and put it all together to create a cup noodles package you can take home with you. There are 5460 flavor combinations to choose from! Mino ParkLocated about 30 minutes north of Osaka by train from Umeda Station, Mino Park is a Quasi-National Park that is popular with Osakans seeking to escape the city for a day. The park is famous for Mino Falls, a 33-meter high waterfall surrounded by lush scenery. The falls attract a large number of visitors in autumn when the leaves begin to change colors. The park features several hiking trails that take you by historic buildings and Ryuanji Temple. The temple originally started as a temple for Shugendo, a mountain religion that later became a part of Buddhism in Japan. The founder of Shugendo, En-no- gyoja, is believed to have meditated under the Mino Waterfall and this led to the area becoming closely tied to Shugendo's mountain worship. Dinner at Michelin star, Naniwa Okina. Famous for their freshly made noodles, ramen, soups & gyoza. Depart on Flight JAL 126. We hope you enjoyed your trip!
Day 1 Tokyo9:30 am to 1:30 pm Half Day Guide (4 hours) Guide in Tokyo, Subways for Touring in Tokyo Tsukiji Outer MarketWhile the wholesale fish market has been relocated to its new Toyosu location, Tsukiji's Outer Market is as busy and bustling as ever. The Outer Market is a mixture of wholesale and retail shops selling everything from carrots to cakes, pottery to kitchen knives. It is also filled to the brim with restaurants serving the freshest sushi and sashimi. In contrast to Toyosu's new ultra-modern facility, Tsukiji's Outer Market retains an essence of traditional charm that makes it well worth a visit. GinzaGinza is Tokyo's most famous upmarket shopping, dining and entertainment district, featuring numerous department stores, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, night clubs and cafes. One square meter of land in the district's center is worth over ten million yen, making it one of the most expensive real estate in Japan. It is where you can find the infamous $10 cups of coffee and where virtually every leading brand name in fashion and cosmetics has a presence. From 1612 to 1800, today's Ginza district was the site of a silver coin mint, after which the district was eventually named. Ginza evolved as an upmarket shopping district following the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. Most shops in the Ginza district are open every day of the week. Ginza Depachika (Basement) Food FloorsIf you are feeling a bit hungry, or just interested in food, the depachika (basement floors) of department stores are filled with foods of all kinds. Most are already prepared and ready to take away and eat at home, which is exactly what many people do in order to balance busy work and home lives. A mouthwatering mix of Japanese and western dishes, sweets, and snacks await. Ramen Dinner TourDuring this personalized 2-3 hour ramen tour, your expert guide will take you to some of Tokyo's hidden ramen shops for lunch or late afternoon meal. He will take you to two ramen restuarants, one for a thick, rich bowl of ramen and one lighter bowl. Ask him any question about ramen and he will be able to answer. Meet your ramen expert in your hotel lobby. Day 2 Tokyo9:30 am to 5:00 pm Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in Tokyo Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Private Vehicle (8 hours) Sensoji Temple & Kaminarimon Gate / NakamisedoriSensoji Temple, possibly one of the most photographed structures in the city. An official temple was built in 645AD, making it not only the oldest temple in Tokyo, but among the oldest in Japan. Sadly, after standing for 1300 years, it fell to the bombings of WWII, only to be rebuilt during the aftermath as a symbol of peace and resurrection to the Japanese people. Today, millions of visitors pass through the Kaminarimon or Thunder Gate annually, known for the huge brightly painted lantern dominating the entrance. Just beyond Sensoji’s Kaminarimon you’ll find yourself on the Nakamisedori, a vibrant shopping street lined with souvenir shops selling everything from Samurai swords to paper fans, and all manner of snacks and trinkets. teamLab PlanetOne of Japan’s most creative spaces, this art encounter places you within large scale installations that combine digital and physical media. The variety here is impressive, with infinity rooms of digital light, knee-deep illuminated water, and mazelike cavernous halls of huge balloons. There are plenty of memorable surprises in this uniquely Japanese art space – and all highly Instagrammable. Roppongi HillsRoppongi Hills is one of the best examples of a city within the city. The building complex in the Roppongi district is home to an amalgamation of offices, apartments, shops, restaurants, a hotel, the Mori Museum, a view deck and more. The 238 meter Mori tower at the center is one of the tallest buildings in the city. Just behind the tower and hotel is Mori Garden, and TV Asahi is also located on the site. Mori Art MuseumThe 238 meter Mori tower at the center of Roppongi Hills is one of the tallest buildings in the city. The Mori Art Museum, located near the top of Mori Tower, shows innovative exhibitions of international contemporary art. Tokyo MidtownAt the heart of Roppongi's arts district, Tokyo Midtown feels almost like a city in itself. Home to a sophisticated mix of shops, galleries, and residences, it is a pleasant area to explore. The main shopping mall features international restaurants, a dining terrace, and a range of stores from everyday essentials to luxury boutiques. The complex also contains many museums and art galleries. Their top floor features interior design and houseware shops as well as the Suntory Museum of Art, a modern space with beautiful city views that displays traditional works. Night Activity: ShinjukuShinjuku is one of the 23 city wards of Tokyo, but is often referred to as the huge entertainment, business, and shopping area around Shinjuku Station. Colorful signs decorate the narrow streets at all stories, blocking out the city sky and filling it with life. More than 2 million passengers go through Shinjuku Station every day, making it the busiest railway station in Tokyo, which effectively makes it the busiest railway station in the world. Shinjuku's skyscraper district is home to many of Tokyo's tallest buildings, including several premier hotels, the twin towers of the Metropolitan Government Office, and is also home to famous game companies, such as Square Enix (right outside Higashi-Shinjuku station). Dinner at Kaiseki Komuro With flavors of cha-kaiseki, a meal served during a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Since opening in 2000, the two Michelin star restaurant has become a gem for urban gourmands that long to immerse themselves in the beauty of the seasons. Day 3 Tokyo9:30 am to 5:30 pm Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in Tokyo Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Nezu Museum The collection on display at the Nezu Museum once belonged to Nezu Kaichiro, an industrialist and former president of the Tobu Railroad. Although he enjoyed everything from delicate calligraphy to Chinese bronzes, the center of the collection concerns “the way of tea.” There are several authentic teahouses scattered throughout the extensive gardens, as well as many lovely artifacts. A collection of painted folding screens in the Rinpa style is not to be missed. The museum’s grounds are a highlight as well. Designed by Kengo Kuma, one of Japan’s brightest architectural stars, the soaring roof and strategic use of glass and steel create a perfect setting for the works within. OmotesandoWhile Paris has the Champs-Élysées and New York has Fifth Avenue, Tokyo has Omotesando. Running from Harajuku to Aoyama-dori, the wide boulevard is home to some of the city’s most intriguing architecture. Many of the buildings are fashion houses built by a veritable Who’s Who of Japanese and international architects, including Jun Aoki’s Louis Vuitton, Toyo Ito’s Tod’s, SANAA’s Dior, Herzog & de Meuron’s Prada, and Tadao Ando’s Omotesando Hills. Whether you’re shopping or simply strolling, the tree-lined street offers generous visual stimulation and plenty of opportunities to leave a few yen behind. HarajukuHarajuku is the epicenter of Japanese street-fashion and fashion subcultures. The neighborhood's modern identity stems from the post-war history of the area, but its continuous development is heavily reliant on today's youth culture trends. The Harajuku area is divided by a boulevard called, Meiji-dori, which separates its two main areas: Takeshita Street and Ura-Harajuku. The side most internationally associated with Harajuku is Takeshita Street an extremely popular pedestrian street overflowing with fashion boutiques, sweet crepe stands, innovative snack shops, photobooths, and fast food outlets marketed to tweens and teens. Even though many of Takeshita Street's energetic trends are starting cross over to the other side, Ura-Harajuku has retained a more relaxed atmosphere. Its streets lie behind Omotesando and are filled with high-end vintage shops, street-fashion brands flagship stores, privately-owned boutiques, and cafes. ShibuyaShibuya is one of the twenty-three city wards of Tokyo, but often refers to just the popular shopping and entertainment area found around Shibuya Station. In this regard, Shibuya is one of Tokyo's most colorful and busy districts, packed with shopping, dining and nightclubs serving swarms of visitors that come to the district every day. Outside of the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Station lies Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. It’s referred to as a "scramble" because traffic is stopped in all directions to allow pedestrians to walk through the intersection, resulting in a true human scramble. DaikanyamaThis area of Tokyo is just one station away from busy Shibuya but has a very different atmosphere with small high-end boutiques, restaurants and cafés sharing the space with embassies, high-class residential areas and Hillside Terrace, the symbol of Daikanyama. The laidback vibe and trendy fashion found here has made it a hot spot among the hip crowds of Tokyo but remains a pleasant counterpart to the busy streets of Shibuya. Tempura Cooking Class This private cooking lesson from the head chef of one of Tokyo’s best tempura restaurants is the ideal way for travelers to experience Tokyo gastronomy at its finest. The tempura restaurant is located inside a former geisha house in a historical Tokyo district. You will learn cooking techniques from the head chef himself, and explore this Japanese specialty’s rich history by tasting and comparing Edo-period vs. contemporary tempura. As part of the class, participants enjoy a full course meal with a sake pairing personally selected by the chef. Dinner at Sushi Saito Chef Takahashi Saito is at the helm here with 3 Michelin stars and near impossible to get seating. Booked in The Private Room, you will enjoy such delicacies as bonito sashimi, tender simmered octopus, kuruma-ebi shrimp and more. Day 4 HakoneLuggage Transfer to Kyoto (up to 2 pieces) During check-out please leave up to 2 pieces of luggage to be sent ahead to your Kyoto accommodation. Please note that the bullet train will not have designated luggage space. Please pack a smaller bag for your night in Hakone at new, exclusive, DESIGN HOTELS Hakone Retreat före & villa 1/f 9:30 am Private Vehicle Transfer to Shinagawa StationYour driver will meet you in the hotel lobby. 10:30 am Depart: Shinagawa (Kodama #), Green Car Arrive: Odawara 11:30 am to 4:30 pm Full Day Guide (5 hours) Guide in Hakone Your guide will meet you on the train platform upon arrival Old Tokaido Walking TrailWelcome to the Old Tokaido road, a highway which once linked Tokyo and Kyoto during the feudal Edo Period. Today, you can enjoy a beautiful cedar-lined passage of the road along the shore of Lake Ashinoko. Even a short walk down the cobbled highway for a few minutes is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the nature and history of the area. Visitors desiring a longer walk can continue deeper into the mountains towards the restored Amazakechaya Teahouse. Hakone ShrineHakone Shrine stands at the foot of Mount Hakone along the shores of Lake Ashi. The shrine buildings are hidden in the dense forest but are well advertised by its huge torii gates, with one standing prominently in the lake and the other two over the main street of Moto-Hakone. Hakone Open Air MuseumHakone Open Air Museum views itself as a harmonious mix of nature and art. This museum allows visitors to experience the beautiful mountainous backdrop of Hakone while viewing numerous sculptures and art exhibits spread out across the museum’s grounds. The main building of the museum features works by various artists including Picasso. Itoh Dining by NOBU Teppanyaki prepared on an iron plate of premium Kuroge Wagyu beef and Tsukiji seafood are the highlights here, set amongst the lush Hakone Forest in the Agora Hills. Day 5 Kyoto Transfer to your hotel, a stay at luxury royokan Yoshida-Sanso, the historical university villa of Prince Higashifushimi. GionGion is Kyoto's most famous geisha district located near Maruyama Park. The district has a number of traditional machiya townhouses where geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) enter and exit in the evening when entertaining guests. Lucky visitors might catch a glimpse of a geisha on her way to her next appointment. Tea with Maiko Enjoy tea, conversation, and a short performance from one of the few professional maiko (geisha-in-training) still active in Kyoto. The teenage maiko will explain in detail about her life and what it takes to become a geisha – a rare opportunity that many travelers never have a chance to experience. This unique meeting is a great way to enjoy geisha culture in the former capital of Kyoto. You can take a photo with the maiko as well. Dinner at Gion Nishikawa Michelin 2 Star Chef Masayoshi Nishikawa crafts unique, seasonal Kaiseki dishes and offers vibrant counter seating to interact and watch the chef's magic. Day 6 Kyoto9:30 am to 5:30 pm Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in Kyoto, Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Private Vehicle (8 hours) Otagi Nenbutsuji TempleOtagi Nenbutsuji Temple is one of Kyoto’s hidden gems due to its isolated location and a unique display of Buddhist art. Although the roots of this temple go back to the 8th century, the current grounds were revitalized in the modern era by Kocho Nishimura, a respected Buddhist artist and priest. In the 1980s, he invited worshippers to this small mountain temple to learn the techniques of stone carving to create 1,200 Rakan (a disciple of Buddha) statues that are now on display at the temple. No two statues are the same, with many depicting lighthearted and comical features that you rarely find in Buddhist art. From singing priests and parents cradling babies to acrobats and surfers, all walks of life are present in stone at Otagi Nenbutsuji. Nishimura’s family continues to care for the temple and carry on his legacy of blending personal expression through art with the teachings of the Buddha. Saga-Toriimoto StreetOne of Kyoto’s best-kept secrets is this quiet district tucked away in the hills on the western rim of the city. A long street runs through a preserved village with rows of charming wooden houses below forested slopes. This is a rare chance to see a grouping of original thatched roof houses so close to the city. Many of these farmhouses are from the Meiji-era (late 1800s/early 1900s) and remain in their original state. At the top of the street is a lovely traditional teahouse with a mossy thatched roof and impressive torii gate. Along the road are several quaint shops selling regional crafts, including bamboo goods, pottery, and whimsical local folkart made from the cocoons of silkworms. Arashiyama Bamboo GroveThe walking paths that cut through the bamboo groves make for a nice walk or bicycle ride. The groves 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. Shojin Ryori lunch at IzusenEnjoy traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine (shojin-ryori in Japanese) in a charming restaurant on the backstreets of the quiet Sagano district. The vegetarian fare is sure to delight and surprise both your tastebuds and eyes. Okochi Sanso VillaThis samurai-style villa is the former home and garden of the famous Japanese film actor Denjiro Okochi (1898-1962), known for his roles are fierce samurai in the early silent film days. The beautiful garden is dotted with rustic teahouses and hidden pathways that open onto expansive city views. One of the best spots for early autumn leaves in Arashiyama, the villa also has a rest area where matcha tea and unique sweets are served. Kinkakuji TemplePerhaps best known in English as the “Temple of the Golden Pavilion,” this icon of Kyoto rises above a quiet reflecting pond, shimmering in its layers of gold leaf regardless of the weather. A remainder of a former villa of the Shogun, the pavilion successfully incorporates three distinctly grand architectural styles: Shinden, Samurai, and Zen. Rebuilt in the mid-20th century, Kinkakuji remains the epitome of Kyoto's gilded past as the cultural capital of the nation. The layout of the garden is based on ancient Chinese writings, and the stones of the main pond serves as a representation of the Japanese islands themselves. As a whole, the entire landscape serves as a fine example of the magnificent villa that once occupied this space Candlelit Tea Ceremony & RitualAs dusk falls and the city begins to settle, enter the traditional home of our in-house tea expert for a special experience. Candles light your way through the garden as you remove your shoes and step into a charming tea room. This special ocassion is multifaceted and focuses on more than just tea. You’ll begin with a glass of local sake paired with two light seasonal foods as a way to better understand the culinary culture of Kyoto. Purified by the sake, you are ready to move on to the main event: an informative tea ceremony served with sweets. Your host will explain the meaning behind the ritual and how it ties to both the mundane world and the spiritual realm. This is an ideal pre-dinner activity to whet the appetite and learn about an important element of Japanese culture. Dinner at Hyotei 3 * Hyotei's enchanted history spans over 450 years, originally a teahouse neraby Nanzen-ji Temple. Two generations of creative cuisine are helmed by celebrated owner/chef Yoshihiro Takahashi. Day 7 Kyoto9:30 am to 5:30 pm Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in Kyoto, Private Vehicle (8 hours) Downtown ShijoThe Shijo district in downtown Kyoto is the lively heart of the city where locals come to shop, stroll, and unwind. Fashionable Shijo Dori Street is lined with brand name shops and upscale department stores like Daimaru and Takashimaya. To the north is Sanjo Dori Street, a much more compact avenue with hip boutiques, cafés, and local craft shops tucked in between wooden homes and everyday Kyoto scenery. Between these two areas runs Teramachi, a covered shopping arcade filled with eateries and shops. The downtown Shijo district is perfect for shoppers and peoplewatchers looking to get a feel for the pulse of Kyoto. Teramachi Street Teramachi was created in the 16th century as part of an effort by the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi to control the Buddhist clergy by relocating their temples to a single area in Kyoto. Now home to art galleries, bookshops, clothing shops and Kyoto specialist stores featuring a Kyoto twist on Japanese goods such as wagashi (confections), noren (curtains), furoshiki (beautiful cloth wraps), ohashi (chopsticks), and ceramics, Teramachi also features excellent tea houses and a variety of restaurants. It is also a mecca for fans of anime and manga with several stores dedicated to merchandise and books of all the well-known series and characters. Sanjusangendo TempleHidden behind a nondescript temple wall is one of the city’s most impressive treasures: Sanjusangendo, the hall of 1001 golden statues of the goddess Kannon. The central image of Kannon in the middle of the temple is a towering masterpiece, as are the 28 guardians that flank her. Originally built in the 12th century to house this stunning collection, it also hosted legendary archery competitions where participants would shoot arrows down the entire length of the 120 meter wooden hall. In 1604, legend has it that the famous samurai Musashi Miyamoto and Yoshioka Denshichiro, leader of a rival martial arts family, fought a duel at the temple gates. Inspiring as both an architectural and artistic wonder, Sanjusangendo is a standout landmark in Kyoto. Ninenzaka and SannenzakaThe streets Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka in Higashiyama are lined by small shops, cafes and restaurants which have been catering to tourists and pilgrims for centuries. These businesses retain their traditional design, although many have been renovated through the years, and they continue to serve customers today, selling local specialties such as Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, sweets, pickles, crafts and other souvenirs.The shops and restaurants in the area typically open around nine or ten in the morning and close relatively early around five or six in the evening. Dinner at Restaurant Gion SasakiPraised as “Sasaki Theater,” this one-and-only Japanese restaurant has become a long-run hit on the old strip of Gion. With charisma and passion, Chef Hiroshi Sasaki has transformed his kitchen into a stage where he performs a new kind of culinary entertainment, packed with fun and surprises. Day 8 Osaka9:30 am Full Day Guide (8 hours) Guide in KyotoPrivate Vehicle (8 hours) Fushimi Inari ShrinePerhaps one of Japan’s most recognizable symbols, the endless wending of thousands of vermillion torii mark this well-known shrine. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, Fushimi is one of Kyoto’s oldest structures, erected even prior to the establishment of the capital in 794AD. Visitors mainly come to wander through the trails of torii, but the main buildings are also of architectural interest as are the dozens of fox statues dotting the grounds. Perhaps the most famous of all the gates donated to Fushimi is the Romon Gate, presented by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s three great unifiers in 1589. Fushimi Sake DistrictFushimi District is a sake-brewing district in southern Kyoto with a retro laid-back atmosphere. Canals lined with willow trees and historic breweries make for a scenic and calm getaway from the busier areas of Kyoto. The district's underground springs provide the clean water for sake making and many of Kyoto's most delicious sakes come from Fushimi. The famous shrine in the area, Fushimi Inari, is dedicated to the god of rice, the main ingredient in sake making. Some of the traditional sake breweries have been converted into stylish restaurants and cafes serving local sakes and craft beers. These restaurants make for an enjoyable place to stop in and enjoy a drink while touring the area Sake Brewery Visit with Sake Expert Prepare to go deep into the world of Japanese sake with the owner of a local hole- in-the-wall bar who speaks exceptional English and is very passionate about Japanese alcohol. As a recognized expert who has lectured at universities and cultural centers, Mr. Asakura will accompany you on a visit a local sake brewery or two, providing a private experience the likes of which are unavailable elsewhere in Kyoto on such a personal level. You’ll learn how sake is produced and the history behind the drink, as well as stop to sample some of the city’s finest vintages. Mr. Asakura’s ability to educate and entertain will impress, and even sake novices will walk away with a deep understanding of Japan’s favorite potent beverage. Todaiji Temple and MuseumUntil 1998, this World Heritage Site was the world’s largest wooden building. Although destroyed twice by fire, the temple’s current structures have been standing since 1709. Todaiji Temple is home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha, which is said to have depleted Japan of every last ounce of bronze to build. The new Todai-ji Museum opened in 2011. It is full of temple treasures, religious art, and objects of deep cultural significance. There are several large statues of the Buddha, as well as rotating exhibitions on Buddhism-oriented themes. Dinner at Shunsaiten Tsuchiya, 2 Michelin stars, considered the best specialty temupura, featuring Chef “Beautiful and delicious”, Shunsaiten Tsuchiya. Day 9 Osaka Transfer to your hotel, St Regis Osaka, a boutique gem right in the heart of Honmachi. 9:30 am to 1:30 pm Half Day Guide (4 hours) Guide in OsakaPrivate Vehicle (4 hours) Shinsekai DistrictVisiting Shinsekai is like entering a time capsule. A popular entertainment district since 1912, the spirit of the area has hardly changed since the postwar reconstruction boom of the 1950s. The only old architectural attraction that remains is 104m Tsutenkaku Tower, but the streets are densely packed with traditional Japanese restaurants tracing their heritage back to the beginnings of the district. The overblown outdoor advertising is decidedly 1960s in style and traditional Kansai restaurants dominate the streets. This is an opportunity to try plenty of local fare like takoyaki (octopus dumplings), okonomiyaki (Kansai pancakes) and especially kushi- katsu (deep-fried meat or vegetables on a wooden stick). Umeda Sky BuildingThe Umeda Sky Building is Osaka’s most iconic building. Designed by Hiroshi Hara, the Japanese architect who also designed Kyoto Station, the 173-meter shiny high- rise structure of glass and steel consists of two separate towers joined at the top by a ring-like observation deck. This open deck, known as the Floating Garden Observatory, offers 360 degree panoramic views of Osaka and is a great way to see the whole city. It is reached by using the world’s highest escalator. The rest of the building is a popular recreation spot with gardens and restaurants. The basement of the building has a selection of eateries organized in narrow alleys designed to reflect a retro early twentieth century style. Sumo Match in Osaka Enjoy an afternoon watching the Sumo Grand Championship at EDION Arena, and discover how exciting this unique sport can be in a live setting. Sumo has ancient roots that initially saw it as a religious ceremony, and many of these traditions are still a part of the matches today. For example, the wrestlers – known as rikishi – throw salt into the ring as they enter to purify the space. Keep your eyes open in between matches as well for all the pageantry and tradition that goes into announcing the rikishi and their entrances into the arena. With its simple rules and constant moments of drama, sumo wrestling will surely find a way to pummel itself into your heart. Don’t be surprised if you exit the arena a newly-minted fan of Japan’s national sport. Private Guided Evening Food Tour in Osaka Get ready to experience some of Japan’s best casual cuisine as you sample your way through the city natives like to call 'Japan’s kitchen'. Osaka is home to some incredible dishes, and your private guide from the city’s best food tours knows all the top spots to eat in the busy Namba and Dotombori districts, including some insider gems. The ever-evolving menu can include takoyaki, okonomiyaki, sashimi, tempura, yakitori, as well as some of Japan’s finest sake and beer to wash it all down. Day 10 Osaka9:30 am to 2:30 pm Half Day Guide (5 hours) Guide in Osaka,Private Vehicle (5 hours) Finish at Itami Airport Cup Noodles MuseumThis museum is dedicated to the history of instant ramen in Japan, and to the founder of instant ramen Momofuku Ando. In 1958, he invented the world's first 'Chicken Ramen' instant noodles after an entire year of research using common tools in a little shed he had built in his backyard in Ikeda-city, Osaka Prefecture. He also invented Cup Noodles in 1971 and Space Ramen (literally ramen that can be eaten in space) in 2005. The museum features a number of interactive exhibits and some interesting workshops. My CUPNOODLES FactoryThis section of the museum enables you to create your own completely original CUPNOODLES package. You will have the opportunity to design your cup, choose your soup and noodle toppings, and put it all together to create a cup noodles package you can take home with you. There are 5460 flavor combinations to choose from! Mino ParkLocated about 30 minutes north of Osaka by train from Umeda Station, Mino Park is a Quasi-National Park that is popular with Osakans seeking to escape the city for a day. The park is famous for Mino Falls, a 33-meter high waterfall surrounded by lush scenery. The falls attract a large number of visitors in autumn when the leaves begin to change colors. The park features several hiking trails that take you by historic buildings and Ryuanji Temple. The temple originally started as a temple for Shugendo, a mountain religion that later became a part of Buddhism in Japan. The founder of Shugendo, En-no- gyoja, is believed to have meditated under the Mino Waterfall and this led to the area becoming closely tied to Shugendo's mountain worship. Dinner at Michelin star, Naniwa Okina. Famous for their freshly made noodles, ramen, soups & gyoza. Depart on Flight JAL 126. We hope you enjoyed your trip!
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STEPPING OUT IN SWITZERLAND
Stepping Out in Switzerland
Switzerland has long been a progressive country that champions diversity and individual rights, and it's also very gay friendly. Sophisticated LGBT travelers come for the welcoming atmosphere, glorious lakes, and majestic mountains. Our custom itinerary includes the welcoming cities of Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne, taking in both the region's natural wonders along with its art and architecture highlights. Hand picked Havens: Widder Hotel Zurich, the city’s most unique property crafted by 10 medieval houses fused with ancient stone, vibrant art and 17th century frescoes. Mandarin Oriental Geneva is an Historical Heritage landmark, the former Hotel du Rhône, the first luxury hotel built after World War II. Reimagined by designer Adam Tihany, it’s an Art Deco gem with subtle, Asian accents. Trip HighlightFestivals Year Round The Swiss calendar is crowded with LGBT festivals and celebrations—Arosa Ski Week in the winter, Zurich's Pink Apple Film Festival in the spring, and Gay Pride events in the summer. We can make arrangements for any of these popular events. Day 1Zurich's Art Scene
Start your visit to Zurich with an art & architecture tour of the city with an art historian and private docent. Among the stops will be the last work by Switzerland's most famous architect, the Heidi Weber Museum–Center Le Corbusier, as well as the Kunsthaus and the Landesmuseum. After you have had your fill of culture, walk along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city's famous shopping street. Day 2Zurich West Zurich West was long an industrial area but in recent years it's transformed itself into one of the city's most exciting neighborhoods, home of open air cafés, dining, and clubs—gay, straight, and mixed. Spend a day, and evening, exploring this part of Zurich with our suggestions for the coolest stores and the hottest restaurants. Day 3Beyond Zurich One of the most appealing aspects of Switzerland is that pristine nature is never far away. We can arrange for a car and driver to take you to sites like the Walensee, seen here, or the historic city of St. Gallen, home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Baroque Abbey of St. Gallen. Both are less than two hours from Zurich. Day 4To Winterthur and Back Just to the north of Zurich, Winterthur is home to a unique art collection. Oskar Reinhart was born into one of the town's wealthiest families, and he began to collect art when he was just 22, in 1907. Eventually his purchases would form one of the world's most important collections of 19th-century French art, the Museum Oskar Reinhart, which he left to the Swiss people at his death. Your guide will get you to Winterthur and back with time to explore more of Zurich, before you continue on to Geneva on Day 5. Day 5To Geneva and Lausanne You'll depart today for Geneva and Lausanne, either by car or a more leisurely trip by train. In either case, there will be time to stop and explore some of the historic cities along the way, like Bern, Switzerland's capital—and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Geneva and Lausanne offer a heady mix of both age-old history and contemporary arts, culture, and a gay scene. And both cities sit on stunning Lake Geneva. Day 6Geneva In Geneva you'll find a historic city that manages to be both charming and elegant at once. Explore the medieval Old Town, walk along the lakefront with its views of the iconic Jet d'Eau, cross the Mont Blanc bridge, and smell the flowers in the vibrant Jardin Anglais. A fifth of Geneva is public parks, but the Jardin Anglais is the most popular of them all with its outdoor sculptures and meticulous landscaping. Day 7Lausanne A university town and cultural center, Lausanne is a city of students and entrepreneurs as well as the home of a vibrant gay scene. You can visit museums like the unconventional Musée d'Art Brut dedicated to outsider art or attend the Bejart Ballet, though leave some time to see the enormous 13th-century cathedral. When you are ready to check out Lausanne's LGBT scene, start at the Avenue du Tivoli, lined with popular bars and cafes.
Switzerland has long been a progressive country that champions diversity and individual rights, and it's also very gay friendly. Sophisticated LGBT travelers come for the welcoming atmosphere, glorious lakes, and majestic mountains. Our custom itinerary includes the welcoming cities of Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne, taking in both the region's natural wonders along with its art and architecture highlights. Hand picked Havens: Widder Hotel Zurich, the city’s most unique property crafted by 10 medieval houses fused with ancient stone, vibrant art and 17th century frescoes. Mandarin Oriental Geneva is an Historical Heritage landmark, the former Hotel du Rhône, the first luxury hotel built after World War II. Reimagined by designer Adam Tihany, it’s an Art Deco gem with subtle, Asian accents. Trip HighlightFestivals Year Round The Swiss calendar is crowded with LGBT festivals and celebrations—Arosa Ski Week in the winter, Zurich's Pink Apple Film Festival in the spring, and Gay Pride events in the summer. We can make arrangements for any of these popular events. Day 1Zurich's Art Scene
Start your visit to Zurich with an art & architecture tour of the city with an art historian and private docent. Among the stops will be the last work by Switzerland's most famous architect, the Heidi Weber Museum–Center Le Corbusier, as well as the Kunsthaus and the Landesmuseum. After you have had your fill of culture, walk along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city's famous shopping street. Day 2Zurich West Zurich West was long an industrial area but in recent years it's transformed itself into one of the city's most exciting neighborhoods, home of open air cafés, dining, and clubs—gay, straight, and mixed. Spend a day, and evening, exploring this part of Zurich with our suggestions for the coolest stores and the hottest restaurants. Day 3Beyond Zurich One of the most appealing aspects of Switzerland is that pristine nature is never far away. We can arrange for a car and driver to take you to sites like the Walensee, seen here, or the historic city of St. Gallen, home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Baroque Abbey of St. Gallen. Both are less than two hours from Zurich. Day 4To Winterthur and Back Just to the north of Zurich, Winterthur is home to a unique art collection. Oskar Reinhart was born into one of the town's wealthiest families, and he began to collect art when he was just 22, in 1907. Eventually his purchases would form one of the world's most important collections of 19th-century French art, the Museum Oskar Reinhart, which he left to the Swiss people at his death. Your guide will get you to Winterthur and back with time to explore more of Zurich, before you continue on to Geneva on Day 5. Day 5To Geneva and Lausanne You'll depart today for Geneva and Lausanne, either by car or a more leisurely trip by train. In either case, there will be time to stop and explore some of the historic cities along the way, like Bern, Switzerland's capital—and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Geneva and Lausanne offer a heady mix of both age-old history and contemporary arts, culture, and a gay scene. And both cities sit on stunning Lake Geneva. Day 6Geneva In Geneva you'll find a historic city that manages to be both charming and elegant at once. Explore the medieval Old Town, walk along the lakefront with its views of the iconic Jet d'Eau, cross the Mont Blanc bridge, and smell the flowers in the vibrant Jardin Anglais. A fifth of Geneva is public parks, but the Jardin Anglais is the most popular of them all with its outdoor sculptures and meticulous landscaping. Day 7Lausanne A university town and cultural center, Lausanne is a city of students and entrepreneurs as well as the home of a vibrant gay scene. You can visit museums like the unconventional Musée d'Art Brut dedicated to outsider art or attend the Bejart Ballet, though leave some time to see the enormous 13th-century cathedral. When you are ready to check out Lausanne's LGBT scene, start at the Avenue du Tivoli, lined with popular bars and cafes.