Sapporo is the beer capital of Japan and home to the world famous Ice Sculpture Festival which is held during the first weeks of February. In Summer there are two main festivals, Yosakoi, a dancing event where teams of dancers compete for prizes and the Beer Festival which sees Odori Park(site of Ice/Snow Festival) turn into 7-8 blocks of beer gardens.

After completing immigration and custom formalities, you will be met outside the baggage claim area by your guide and escorted to a waiting vehicle for your transfer to your hotel.

A luxury ryokan enveloped in a primeval forest, Zaborin marries the Japanese characters ‘zabo’ (to sit, or forget) and ‘rin’ (small forest) to form a serene refuge outfitted with contemporary style and flare.

Elegant Yoshitsu rooms are surrounded by white birch woods and afford guests views of Hanazono Bokujo and Mt. Yotei from the comfort of a rejuvenating outdoor bath whose water is sourced from nearby hot spring. 

Today's touring will include the following sites and activities:

Visit to the vibrant Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, where the local flavors of Hokkaido come together every day in a colorful explosion of local produce and fish. 

Said to be the home of the souls of Emperor Meiji as well as the 3 Gods protecting the island of Hokkaido, Hokkaido Jingu is the city's most important shrine, and is idyllically placed in the center of Maruyama Park.

Moerenuma Park is a boldly designed emerald haven bearing the unique sculptures of Japanese-American architect, Isamu Noguchi. Covering an area of 400 acres, the park features geometric hills, steel pyramids and rows of planted trees that fuse the traditional principles of natural Japanese beauty with the modernism of the Western World. 

Enjoy a visit to the Hill of the Buddha. Take in the view of 150,000 lavender plants as you approach the temple, created in 2015 by architect Tadao Ando. Pass through water courts and a tunnel-like corridor to reveal a magnificent stone Buddha weighing 1500 tons and sitting over 40 feet tall. 

Today's touring will include the following sites and activities:

Visit the former Aoyama Villa, built by one of the most successful herring fishing families in 20th century Japan. Herring fishing was considered a gold rush of the time, and no expense was spared in the villa’s construction. Inside the building, admire traditional Japanese calligraphy, handcrafts, and paintings. 

Enjoy a hands-on, glass making/sandblasting experience.

To begin, you will choose your design as well as the type of glass you would like to use.

Once you have settled on the placement of your design, you will engrave the glass using a sandblasting machine. 

Enjoy a cruise through the romantic Canal Area, sensitively transformed in the 1980’s from a collection of empty warehouses into an array of museums, restaurants and shops lit by old-fashioned gas lamps. During the day, Otaru gives off a distinctly European-atmosphere thanks in part to the local artists who display their works alongside the canal. 

Discover the ocean and coastal vistas of Otaru.

This ropeway flies from the base in 4 minutes to the top of Mount Tengu, which lies to the southwest of downtown Otaru. One of the three best night views in Hokkaido is said to be the views offered from downtown Otaru and the Sea of Japan.

Tokyo, originally ‘Edo’, has been the capital of Japan since 1600 AD. After 250 years of isolation from the rest of the world, Tokyo began to open its doors in the late 19th century. Tokyo’s current cityscape is the result of the rebuilding that occurred after extensive bombing during World War II destroyed much of the city. While old and new coexist harmoniously, Tokyo has come to symbolize the modern Japan, manifesting economic prosperity and worldly sophistication.

After collecting your luggage you will be met outside the baggage claim area by your guide and escorted to a waiting vehicle for your transfer to your hotel.

A dramatic impression awaits you upon arrival at the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo. The lobby is on the 38th floor - Step out into the extraordinary lobby surrounded by glass. Enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo city. 

Today's touring will include the following sites and activities:

Enjoy a visit to the Hie Shrine, a quaint shrine hidden in the shadows of giant cedar trees; the sacred trees here are meant as a blessing for children.

Visit Shibuya Sky, the largest rooftop viewing space anywhere in Japan; from here, you will be treated to panoramic views of the bustling Shibuya District.

Explore the grounds of the Imperial Palace, formerly the Edo Castle.

The palace itself is closed to the public, but you will be able to explore the palace’s expansive and picturesque East Garden. It doesn’t matter how busy Tokyo is, you will always enjoy the calm tranquility of the Imperial Gardens.

Yanesen is the collective name for the Yanaka, Nezu, and the Sendagi neighborhoods. It’s a great area to explore on foot and see the remnants of the shitamachi atmosphere of good old Tokyo—the traditional Japanese townscape and the friendliness and hospitality of the residents living there—all in the heart of the metropolis. 

Today's touring will include the following sites and activities:

Enjoy a hands-on lesson during which you will gain a new understanding of Japanese culture through the use of unique Japanese cookware and authentic, home-style flavors.

Enjoy a sake tasting, at which time you will be introduced to the ancient traditions and customs behind this fermented rice beverage.

 Named after the iconic Shuzenji Temple, Shuzenji is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring resort towns; here you will find a picturesque bamboo forest, traditional shops and cafes as well as Tokko-no-yu, a popular hot spring turned foot bath that runs through the center of town.

Upon arrival, you will be escorted to a taxi for your transfer to your hotel

Nestled amidst throngs of bamboo, Yagyu-no-Sho is a classic sukiya-style structure marrying traditional cuisine and natural splendor with the minimalist beauty of Japanese architecture. The ryokan’s open-air baths feature water sourced from a hot spring on the grounds of Shuzenji Temple and is said to contribute to beautiful skin. When Yagyu originally opened its doors, it was a Kyoto-style kaiseki restaurant with a philosophy of culinary excellence; during your stay, dine on an array of locally-sourced specialties reflecting the ryokan’s humble beginnings.  

Today's touring will include the following sites and activities:

A dazzling collection of emerald enhanced by the sounds of nearby running water, during your visit you will have the chance to learn about the cultivation process while viewing the terraced splendor of the fields.

Enveloped in the emerald wonders of Izu, enjoy a visit to the splendorous Izunokuni Panorama Park, where you will be treated to stunning views of Mt. Fuji, the forested hills of Mt. Katsuragi and more.

Visit the Shuzenji Temple, a Buddhist Temple originally founded in the early 9th century. As you wander the temple grounds, learn about the ancient tragedies that have occurred here; in 1204, Minamoto-no Yoriie, the 2nd shogun of the Kamakura era, was poisoned while taking a bath at the age of 22. 

Stroll along the path leading through the Shuzenji Bamboo Forest, a meandering trail set alongside the Katura River. 

Tokko No Yu marks the point where the Shuzenji Hot Springs were born; it is at this site that Kobo Daishi struck a river rock, at which point hot water sprang forth and gave life to the city. 

Your guide will see you off at the train station

Kyoto, steeped in traditions and beauty, has remained relatively unchanged for many centuries. Kyoto was Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years and during that time became a repository of much of the best Japanese art, culture, religion and thought. Kyoto’s historic buildings and sites span centuries. Kyoto still charms visitors with its original wooden houses, ancient temples, and geishas hurrying on their way.

You will be met at the train station by your guide and escorted to a taxi for your transfer to your hotel.

A modern day interpretation of traditional, luxurious ryokans, the Ritz Carlton Kyoto creates an experience that seamlessly blends the centuries old traditions of Kyoto with the services and facilities that Ritz Carlton has become famous for the world over.   

Today's touring will include the following sites and activities:

Enjoy a 30 minute rickshaw ride through Arashiyama. Highlights include: Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove. Please note: the route may change depending on the weather and crowds.

The Arashiyama bamboo 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.

Togetsukyo is a wooden bridge spanning the Oi River. Look off to the west and marvel at stunning views of Mt. Arashiyama amidst the throngs of Japanase-style boats moored at nearby docks. 

Enjoy a 1 hour tea ceremony.

Learn about the preparation process for a Tea Ceremony, the significance of Tea in the Japanese Culture and the ritual manners. You will also have the opportunity to sample the tea and learn how to prepare the tea.

Featuring traditional Japanese buildings and a variety of gardens and walking paths, the Sanzen-in Temple is one the country's finest Buddhist Temples of the Tendai sect, and it's origins can be traced back to the ever-revered monk Saicho. Besides its natural beauty and far-reaching history, Sanzenin is famous for being one of the few temples whose head priests used to be members of the imperial family.

The vast, emerald grounds that make up the Hosen-in Temple are home to exquisite Japanese gardens, musical bamboo pipes, and more. The temple itself is one of the infamous 'Bloody Temples of Kyoto', as portions of its ceiling contain the blood-stained wooden floorboards from Fushimi Castle, an eternal tribute to the 17th Century defenders that committed ritual suicide as the castle was being stormed.

Today's touring will include the following sites and activities:

Begin by transferring via private vehicle to Lake Biwa, the starting point for your day of adventure.

Upon arrival, you will be met by a local guide in preparation for your day of touring.

Set off on a leisurely cycling journey as you enjoy stunning lakeside views while passing by lush, pine tree forests and idyllic white sand beaches.

Your cycling excursion will take you to Shirahige Shrine, a floating tori gate reminiscent of the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, albeit on a smaller scale. Literally translated, shirahige means “white beard”, and, as such, the shrine is a popular place for one to pray for longevity, luck and prosperity.

Afterwards, you will be transferred by taxi to the nearby mountain village.

While here, enjoy a special lunch served in the home of a local farmer.

Upon arrival, the farmer’s wife will prepare you the same simple, yet delicious, multi-course lunch that she prepares every day. If interested, you are welcome to assist in the preparation of your meal.

Following lunch, you are free to go for a relaxing stroll down the charming village lane.

The drive will take approximately 1 hour, 30 minutes

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Japan during a stay at Sasayuri-An, a nearly 200 year old thatched roof mountain home. The iconic lodging itself has been lovingly outfitted with all of the latest, modern conveniences while still maintaining its original, historic atmosphere.

Bask in stunning, panoramic views of nearby rice fields from the comfort of the villa’s main room, which doubles as your dining, living and sleeping quarters.

Today's touring will include the following sites and activities:

Enjoy an utterly tranquil ritual during which the mind and body of the Shugendo practicioner become one; during this experience, Sasayuri-ann's owner (a Shugendo Monk) will perform the time honored fire ritual at a shrine adjacent to the Rice Terrace Villa. The fire ritual will be joined by others.

Nestled in the base of Kii Peninsula and the border of Nara and Mie Prefecture, Sasayuri-ann sees Kyoto to the north, Ise to the east, and Nara and Osaka to the west. Furthermore, the two most sacred sites, Mt. Yoshino and Mt. Koyasan is to the south, which makes Sasayuri-ann a central location and a hub to travel around Kansai area. In addition to the conventional land transportation, we are excited to provide a memorable air travel that surely will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Three holy grounds (Yoshino, Omine, Mt. Koya and Kumano Sanzan) and its pilgrimage routes (Omine Okugakemichi, Koyasan Choishimichi, and Kumano Sankeimichi) were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 7 July, 2004 as “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.”

Although these World Heritage Sites attract many domestic and international tourists, it is too huge a natural tourism resource to be covered in a short period of time due to the means of transportation.

The area around Kii Peninsula and Nara is the birthplace of Japan as a nation and the land where the basis of Japan’s culture, religion and traditions were nurtured. However, being one of Japan’s most mountainous areas, it has also been a secluded region that does not allow easy access for tourists. 

Now, Sasayuri-ann has opened its exclusive heliport, providing two flight courses for travelers to make a day trip to these vast sacred sites in the mountain.

Your route for today will be as follows: Great Gate -> Two Local Temples -> Lunch -> Visit to the region's Main Temple -> Okunoin Temple

For today's touring, you have the option of partaking in a number of activities offered by Sasayuri-Ann, such as:

• A Waterfall Trek
• Lake Canoeing Excursion
• Art Forest Visit