15-Day Japan Family Vacation with Nakasendo Trail Hiking

Today, take some time to explore Tokyo at your own pace and discover hidden treasures.

For fashion lovers and art enthusiasts, don't miss Harajuku and Omotesando. In Harajuku, you'll find the unique style of Design Festa Gallery, reflecting the district's creative energy. In upscale Omotesando, immerse yourself in art at Espace Louis Vuitton, known for its stunning architecture and exhibitions.

If you're traveling with kids, they might enjoy diving into Japanese pop culture in Akihabara. At Animate Ikebukuro, filled with officially licensed anime figures, merchandise, and cosplay items, they can find treasures from their favorite series.

Your Mt. Fuji tour start at Oshino Hakkai, a lovely pond complex fed by crystal-clear springs. Take in the stunning view of Mt. Fuji towering above the serene waters. Next, visit Arakurayama Sengen Shrine for panoramic views of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji. 

Enjoy a tranquil cruise on Lake Kawaguchiko, capturing the mountain's reflection on the water. Then, take a ride on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway to an observation deck for more breathtaking views. Marvel at Mt. Fuji's beauty against the backdrop of drifting clouds, creating a picture-perfect scene of Japan's iconic landscape.

Spend the morning in Hakone exploring its artistic side at museums surrounded by nature. Then, in the afternoon, make your way to Nagoya at your own pace. Nagoya is famous for its industries and technology, but it also retains its traditional Japanese charm, providing a unique blend of modernity and heritage for visitors to experience.

Start your Nagoya exploration at the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. It's an interactive place where kids can have fun weaving virtual clothes, racing cars, and feeling the wind in a high-speed wind tunnel. They'll learn about the history of textiles and cars while having a blast!

Then, head to the Toyota Automobile Museum to see over 200 vintage cars. It's a fascinating journey through automotive history, showing how cars have shaped the world and Toyota's role in that story.

Today is your chance to explore Nagoya at your own speed.

If you love shopping and vibrant city life, head to the Sakae district. Here, you can wander through department stores, boutique shops, and global brands. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the many eateries and soak in the lively atmosphere, especially at night when the area lights up.

For those intrigued by technology, visit the Nagoya City Science Museum and SCMAGLEV Railway Park. These attractions offer hands-on science exhibits and a glimpse into maglev train technology. It's a great experience for both curious minds and kids.

Start a calm 3-hour hike that feels like stepping into the past. Walk along an ancient trade route from Magome-juku to Tsumago-juku, both preserved towns from the Edo era. You'll stroll through lush forests, cross small streams, and pass by traditional cottages and rice fields. This trail offers beautiful countryside views, peaceful sounds, and a glimpse into Japan's history. It's a serene tribute to the country's rural charm and heritage.

Today's hike covers approximately 6 kilometers from Yabuhara to Narai. You'll ascend gradually from Yabuhara to the Torii Pass viewpoint, where you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Ontake.

Upon reaching Narai, you'll encounter restored buildings that now serve as cafes, museums, and shops. Tucked between wooded hills, Narai thrived during the Edo period as a vital rest stop for travelers on the Nakasendo route, earning its nickname as the "town of a thousand guesthouses."

Take your time exploring Narai this morning. Wander along its cobblestone streets flanked by wooden buildings and gardens, offering a glimpse of old Japan that contrasts with the bustling pace of modern cities.

Afterward, journey to Kyoto, a city that feels like a living museum, showcasing Japan's imperial history and rich heritage. From observing solemn monks collecting alms to catching a glimpse of geisha hurrying between tea houses, Kyoto's streets are steeped in the rituals and romance of a bygone era.

Start your day at Fushimi Inari Shrine, where you'll walk through paths lined with thousands of bright red gates donated by Japanese worshippers. Then, head to Nishiki Market, a bustling place filled with stalls offering fresh Japanese food and crafts.

Afterward, visit Nijo Castle, once home to a powerful shogun. Marvel at its ornate decorations and listen to the "nightingale floors" designed to alert intruders.

End your day with a traditional tea ceremony, where a skilled tea master will prepare powdered green tea and serve it with sweet treats, all while sharing insights into the ritual's spiritual significance that dates back centuries.

Today, you're heading to Nara, just a short train ride away from Kyoto. With your guide, you'll start by visiting Nara Park, where you can meet and feed the friendly deer that roam freely. Then, it's off to Todai-ji Temple, known for its huge wooden structure and giant bronze Buddha. Afterward, take a walk through Naramachi district to experience what life was like during the Edo period.

In the afternoon, you'll explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its ancient beauty and thousands of stone lanterns. Finally, you'll return to Kyoto by bullet train.

This morning, hop on a train to Osaka and enjoy some free time exploring the city on your own. If you're a fan of cup noodles, you might want to consider an optional visit to the Cup Noodles Museum Yokohama. Inside, you can wander through the instant noodle tunnel showcasing various flavors and even create your own custom cup noodle at the "My Cup Noodles" factory.

In the afternoon, get ready for a special cooking class. With patient guidance from the instructor, you'll learn to wrap nori and fill it with salmon and shrimp. The kitchen will be filled with the rich aroma of miso as you prepare flavorful broths, perfecting the balance of salt and umami.

Today, your driver will pick you up from the hotel lobby for a scenic two-hour drive to Himeji Castle. This magnificent fortress stands out with its towering white walls and elegant sloping roofs, offering a glimpse into Japan's historical architecture.

For lunch, we'll head to Kobe, renowned for its succulent Kobe beef. Savor the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth slices bursting with rich flavor and subtle umami notes. Afterward, take a ride on the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway to the summit of Mt. Nunobiki for breathtaking views of Osaka Bay's shimmering waters.

In the afternoon, you have a couple of options. You can explore the fragrant paths of the Nunobiki Herb Garden, offering stunning views of Kobe city from above. Alternatively, visit the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum to taste award-winning sake straight from Japan's oldest commercial sake brewery.

Head to the airport for your departure flight.