Trip Overview
Our Modern Adventure to Japan packs in so much of the ancient tradition, incredible cuisine and beautiful culture of Japan. We'll learn from the artisans and craftspeople who have dedicated their lives to the art of the simplest things: tea, soy, sake, calligraphy. We'll also meet local chefs and experience the cuisine of Kyoto like you can only do, with a master chef like Michael, with his deep roots in Kyoto's culinary scene.
This trip overview is designed to answer questions regarding our Modern Adventure in Japan. If any changes are made, we will update you as appropriate and when necessary.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
DAY 1: KYOTO
Day One! Meet in Kyoto, Japan at 9am on Sunday, June 18, 2023 at the Hotel Mitsui
Welcome Meditation at Keninji
Bento lunch at Michelin-starred Shimogamo Saryo
Prayer at Shimogamo shrine
Welcome dinner
Lodging: The Hotel Mitsui
DAY 2: KYOTO
Kyoto Fish Market
Nishiki market walk
Tofu factory visit & lunch
Lesson in Japanese Calligraphy
Cooking demonstration with Michael Cimarusti for dinner
Lodging: The Hotel Mitsui
DAY 3: KYOTO > SHODOSHIMA
Transfer to Shodoshima with a stop in Akashi
Traditional lunch
Transfer to ryokan
Locally sourced dinner
Lodging: Mari
DAY 4: SHODOSHIMA
Traditional Japanese breakfast
Sightseeing tour of Shodoshima
Sake brewery experience followed by lunch
Soy sauce factory visit
Dinner in Shodoshima
Lodging: Mari
DAY 5: SHODOSHIMA > KYOTO
Olive oil factory visit & tasting
Himeji castle visit
Surprise lunch
Bullet train to Kyoto
Arrival at hotel
Dinner on your own
Lodging: The Hotel Mitsui
DAY 6: KYOTO
Visit to Arashiyama, Gio-ji and Okoshi Sanso
Lunch and traditional tea ceremony
Afternoon at your leisure
Farewell dinner
Lodging: The Hotel Mitsui
DAY 7: KYOTO
Breakfast
Transfers to KIX airport (see Travel & Logistics)
Our Accommodations
The Hotel Mitsui
Aburano-Koji St. Nijo-Sagaru, Nakagyo-Ku 284 Nijoaburanokoji-Cho, Kyoto 604-0051
+81 75-468-3100. The Hotel Mitsui
An ode to ancient Japanese tea ceremonies, each room translates centuries of tradition into quiet luxury—spacious bathrooms carved with stone and artisanal cypress accents flow into the hotel’s majestic courtyard and breathtaking spa. It's a true sanctuary in the heart of Kyoto, with the historic Nijo-jo Castle just across the street.
Shimayado Mari
2011 Noma, Shodoshima, Shozu District,
Kagawa 761-4421, Japan
+81 879-82-0086 Shimayado Mari
The epitome of elevated minimalism, the Mari embodies the effortless grace of Japanese onsen culture. Its pine accents are understated, its kaiseki meals, simple and exquisite and the spa, serene and restorative.
Inclusions & Exclusions
INCLUSIONS
On a Modern Adventure, we’ve worked out all the details for you. Included in your experience are luxury boutique accommodations, delicious local food and drink, private transport between destinations, expert local guides, and much more. Here’s what’s included:
Six nights at unique four- and five-star accommodations
Private travel for all day trips and excursions
Departure airport transfer
Private tours with local guides and cultural experts
Exclusive VIP access and tastings
Guided activities, adventures and expeditions
Entrance fees
Daily breakfasts, most lunches and dinners
Local beverages with meals
Gratuities for local guides
EXCLUSIONS
International roundtrip airfare
Travel insurance (see Get Ready)
Transportation to the trip’s starting point
Activities not included in the trip itinerary
Hotel incidentals including room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs
Food and beverages not included in itinerary
Gratuity for Modern Adventure tour leader