Japan: a land of timeless traditions and modern marvels
Japan is a realm where ancient customs coexist with cutting-edge innovation, inviting travelers to explore a country that feels both intimate and endlessly vast. In the spring, as cherry blossoms paint the streets, the journey guides readers through Tokyo, where neon signs meet centuries-old shrines, and onward to Takayama and Shirakawa-go, with Kyoto serving as the pearl of the archipelago. This itinerary reveals the delicate balance between contemporary life and a heritage that continues to shape daily existence in Japan.
Join a spring adventure that blends culture, scenery, and expert insights from seasoned travel journalist Noelia Ferreiro, delivered with the practical know-how a North American traveler expects.
Sign up for a Japan trip and reserve your place
Information on flights, accommodations, pricing, and the full itinerary is available on the official program page. For those seeking personalized assistance, inquiries can be directed through the program’s contact channels on the site. (citation: Travel Magazine Canada/USA program overview)
Milestones of the journey
Day 1: Madrid to Doha to Tokyo
The group departs from Madrid, connects through Doha, and arrives in Tokyo where participants settle in for the night.
Day 2: Tokyo
Touchdown at Tokyo Narita, where a Spanish-speaking assistant welcomes the guests and guides them to their hotel for check-in.
Day 3: Tokyo
Morning breakfast at the hotel, followed by an exploration of the city’s core districts. The day covers Shinto shrines, the Meiji era neighborhoods, Shibuya, Senso-ji in Asakusa, and the bustling Ginza shopping district with included lunch.
Day 4: Tokyo to Nagoya to Tsumago to Takayama
Participants rise early for a transfer to Tokyo Station and a ride on the famous Nozomi bullet train to Nagoya. After arriving, they travel along the historic Nakasendo route to Waki Honjin Samurai Inn, where lunch is served. The day concludes with a transfer to Takayama and a stroll through Kami-sannomachi before hotel check-in and dinner.
Day 5: Takayama to Shirakawa-go to Nagoya to Kyoto
The morning unfolds with visits to Miyagawa River and the local market, followed by Takayama Jinya Museum. A visit to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its Gassho-zukuri houses, offers a glimpse into traditional mountain life. After lunch, the group travels to Nagoya by high-speed train, then heads to Kyoto where a Spanish-speaking assistant awaits and the hotel check-in follows.
Day 6: Kyoto
A full day in the ancient capital begins with a hotel breakfast and a morning briefing. The bus takes guests through Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryuji Temple Garden, Kinkakuji, Nijo-jo Castle, and the atmospheric Gion district in search of Maiko performances. Lunch is provided, and the day ends with a return to the hotel.
Day 7: Kyoto
Continued exploration includes the Fushimi Inari Shrine and a walk through the famous Torii gate-lined paths, followed by a visit to Deer Park and Todaiji Temple, home to a colossal Buddha. Lunch is included, with a relaxed return to the hotel in the evening.
Day 8: Kyoto to Tokyo
The morning features a transfer to Kyoto Station and another Nozomi bullet train ride to Tokyo. Guests will explore Tokyo Tower and the Akihabara district, a hub of technology and pop culture. Lunch is provided.
Day 9: Tokyo to Doha
Breakfast at the hotel before a transfer to Narita Airport for the flight back to Doha.
Day 10: Doha to Madrid
The journey concludes with a connection back to Madrid from Doha.
The price of the Japan trip includes a complete package with Spanish-speaking guidance, economy-class round-trip flights via Doha, airport taxes, and accommodations in listed or similar hotels with breakfast. Itineraries cover five lunches, one dinner, and all required transfers and visits by a private bus with a Spanish-speaking guide. JR train seats are reserved in economy class for Tokyo to Nagoya, Nagoya to Kyoto, and Kyoto to Tokyo. A dedicated guide accompanies throughout, and luggage transfer is provided for one normal suitcase per person. Taxes, tolls, parking, and driver tips are included, and travelers receive headset devices to maximize the guide’s explanations. A 24-hour travel assistance service is available, along with CO2 compensation on flights and travel insurance.