Konnichiwa! Hop on a private transfer to your Tokyo hotel, located in the atmospheric old Tokyo neighborhood of Asakusa, known for its traditional craft shops and street-food stalls and its trendy upscale dining scene by the waterfront. We’ll gather later this afternoon in the hotel lobby for an orientation talk before heading out for a sumptuous welcome dinner to celebrate the beginning of your once-in-a-lifetime Japanese adventure.

Depart Tokyo this morning by express train to the city of Nikko. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, scenic slopes, national park, hot springs, and picturesque lakes and waterfalls, Nikko is the perfect place to begin our deep dive into Japanese culture. You'll start at the colorful Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu, a famous Shogun from the 17th century Edo Period. Enjoy some free time exploring Nikko then meet up with the rest of your group for a flavor-packed yuba-themed feast. Yuba is a traditional Nikko delicacy, made by skimming soy milk skin while it’s still boiling. It's served raw, fried, or in dishes like yuba udon. Delicious or as the Japanese would say, “oishii!”

Set off early to the majestic Kegon Falls just outside Nikko, renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty and fed by Lake Chuzenji's crystal-clear waters. Following this, we'll take a brief hike to admire Fukiware Falls before enjoying lunch with a view. Gaze in wonder at the serene landscapes of Niigata Prefecture, as we head for a visit to Yahiko Shrine, a 2,000 year old place of worship known for bringing blessings in marriage. Your day concludes with a quintessentially Japanese experience; a stay in a traditional Ryokan. Relax in rejuvenating hot spring baths as you embrace the essence of Japanese hospitality and culture.

This morning you will visit the studios of skilled ateliers and artisans in the metalworking area of Tsubame-Sanjo, who specialize in producing ornate cutlery and copperware. After some free time for solo exploration, you will be treated to a special geisha performance. In the Edo period, Niigata contributed to the prosperity of Japan by sending food to the Kansai region in the southwest. As thanks, Kyoto is said to have sent "culture" back in return, which included geisha. A private sake brewery tour and tasting is up next before you catch a scenic ferry ride to Sado, Japan’s sixth-largest island.

Embark on a journey through Sado Island's storied past today, where exiled political dissidents found sanctuary and resourceful pioneers dug for gold. Enjoy a rare opportunity to witness a mesmerizing outdoor performance of Noh, a classical Japanese dance-drama. Then visit the ghostly shipbuilding village of Shukunegi, a testament to Sado's prosperous past during the 17th-century gold rush, now preserved in eerie tranquility. Soak up the spooky atmosphere as you stroll among over 100 deserted houses, each whispering tales of a bygone era. Finally, embrace the thrill of sailing in an iconic Tarai Bune, or "tub boat," a unique maritime tradition immortalized in Studio Ghibli's masterpiece ‘Spirited Away.’

Experience the thunderous beats of Sado's famed taiko drummers, led by the renowned Kodo group, in a morning drumming session. Then, journey to Aikawa, once the heart of Sado's 17th-century gold rush, the wealth of which powered the mighty Tokugawa Shogunate. Explore the historic gold mine, where thousands sought fortune and the Edo homeless toiled. Walk the dim tunnels, gaining insight into the miners' harsh reality, and encounter lifelike animatronic miners peering from the shadows, bringing the history of the island to life. 

Before bidding farewell to Niigata, let's stretch our legs with a leisurely stroll around Mount Donden, affectionately known as "roundtop," famed for its wild grasses and abundant flowers that grow across its slopes. Afterwards, we'll set sail back to the mainland and catch a flight from Niigata Airport to Osaka. Upon touchdown in Osaka, hop into your awaiting carriage bound for Nara, where you'll stay for two nights in a charmingly refurbished soy sauce warehouse, steeped in history and flavor. 

Get ready for a day packed with sumo-sized fun in Nara, the birthplace of Sumo! Start the day with a visit to Kehayaza Sumo stable, where you'll learn the ropes of Sumo wrestling with a demonstration, and even try your hand at grappling with a real Sumo wrestler. Refuel with a hearty lunch of Chanko Nabe, the traditional dish of Sumo wrestlers, shared with a retired competitor. Then, it's off to explore the iconic Todaiji Temple and stroll through Nara Park, where you can mingle with the famously friendly deer. Finally, get hands-on with a unique experience making Nara Sumi Ink and mastering the art of Calligraphy. 

Start your penultimate day in Japan with a peaceful walk through the dream-like Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Next, visit Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a Shojin Ryori lunch, a traditional Zen Buddhist meal that emphasizes simplicity and natural ingredients. Spend the afternoon marveling at the stunning Golden Pavilion of Kinkakuji Temple, and exploring the artistry of kimono-making at a textile studio, revealing the artistry behind Japan's most iconic garment. A traditional Japanese dinner this evening offers the chance to celebrate the unforgettable memories and connections you’ve made over the last nine days. 

After nearly a week of exploring some of Japan’s many wonders, hopping from temple to waterfall to ghost village to tub boat, it’s time to bid farewell to this fascinating region and the friends we’ve made along the way. If you decide to extend your trip, check out Atlas Obscura’s Guide to Japan for more itinerary inspiration. Sayonara, but not goodbye. Until our next adventure!