Day 1 : Kyoto
Arrive at any time. Join your CEO for a welcome briefing and an optional dinner in Kyoto.
Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
1h
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Acommodation
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Acommodation
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Day 2 : Kyoto
Start your Kyoto based explorations with one of the iconic hikes outside the Kyoto downtown area. Hike from Kurama village to Kibune-two villages that mark the start and endpoint of the hike. As you wind your way through the canopied forest, visit the Yuki shrine and Kurama-dera temple.
CEO-Led Hiking Tour from Kurama to Kibune
Kyoto 2h30m
Transfer by train and subway to Kurama Station and begin your CEO-led hike. Walk between these two picturesque, quaint villages in the Kitayama Mountains and follow the stone steps up into the verdant, mist-shrouded forests. Pass through the highland and visit smaller temples and search for spring water outlets flowing down the trail. Stop along the way at the Kurama-dera Temple—located atop the mountain with stunning views of the countryside, Yuki Shrine, Maoden, ending at Kibune Shrine. The total hike time will be 2.5 hours for a total of 3.9km and a total elevation gain of 584m.
Acommodation
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Acommodation
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Meals Included:
Breakfast
Day 3 : Kyoto
The final day in Kyoto begins with the iconic visit to Fushimi Inari shrine. Walk for around 2 hours under the vibrant torii gates as you make your way along the various trails. Although this is a popular activity, it's worth it for the expansive views across Southern Kyoto.
Spend the afternoon at leisure in Kyoto.
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Hike
Kyoto
Hike up Fushimi Inari through 10,000 stunning torii gates (as seen in the film Memoirs of a Geisha). The shrine itself is at the base of the Inari mountain but includes many trails up to smaller shrines in the area. The hike up is about 2 hrs.
Enjoy a free afternoon in the beautiful town of Kyoto.
Acommodation
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Optional Activities - Day 3
Nijo Castle and Gardens Visit
Kyoto
Visit the Nijo Castle, the residence of the first shogun of the Edo Period built in 1603. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the property is divided into three areas: the Honmaru (main circular fortification), Ninomaru (secondary circle of defense), and the gorgeous gardens that surround both.
Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion Visit
Kyoto
Explore Kinkaku-ji or the Golden Pavilion, named for the temple’s top two floors that are covered in gold leaf. The temple is surrounded by trees and sits on a reflective pond, making this must-see in Kyoto a perfect place for photos. While the temple can be busy, there are gardens around the area to explore once you’ve had enough of the view.
Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji
Kyoto
The Ryōan-ji garden is one of the best examples of kare-sansui, or dry landscape, a type of Zen garden. Fifteen large rocks are placed within a sea of white pebbles raked into linear patterns to facilitate meditation. Stand on the platform to get the best view from above. Stroll the grounds around the Ryoan-ji Temple and along the Kyoyo-chi pond.
Acommodation
Hearton Hotel Kyoto
Meals Included:
Breakfast
Day 4 : Kyoto to Yanbaru National Park
Let the island hopping begin. Board a domestic flight bound for Naha airport, in Okinawa. Naha is the main gateway for travelers in and out of Okinawa. Upon arrival, hop onto a private transport and make your way north towards Yanbaru National Park. This area is not popular on the tourist route due to its more remote location, and indeed feels a bit like a hidden gem.
Spend a free evening after arriving to Okinawa.
Plane
Kansai International Airport - Naha Airport
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Acommodation
Ada Garden Hotel
Acommodation
Ada Garden Hotel
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Dinner
Day 5 : Yanbaru National Park
Begin today's explorations at the Okinawa Rail Observation deck. Shaped like a giant 12 meter tall Okinawa rail, this observation deck gives visitors expansive views over Usa Beach and Cape Hedo. Then embark on a guided walk through part of Yambaru Forest, spotting native flora and fauna. After a picnic lunch, head towards to the seaside and join your local guide on a guided sea kayaking excursion to Yasuda island. After a busy day, enjoy a dinner out together.
Okinawa Rail Observation & Ibe-dake Forest Trail Trek
Yanbaru National Park
Start by observing the endangered Okinawa Rail, a bird endemic to Yanbaru and learn about the conservation efforts to protect Okinawa's natural environment. Then start the trek along the Ibe-dake forest path through the Special Wildlife Protection Area and learn about the history and ancient wisdom of protecting this precious forest.
Yanbaru Sea Kayaking
Yanbaru National Park
Kayak to the uninhabited island of Yasuda off the coast of Yanbaru. Taking about 30 minutes one way, we'll glide over pristine reef and through crystal clear water, clear enough to see the colorful coral and bright fish. Explore Yasuda island's white sand and relax on the beach, where sea turtles sometimes visit, before paddling back to the coast.
Acommodation
Ada Garden Hotel
Acommodation
Ada Garden Hotel
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 6 : Kunigami/Ishigaki
Another day, another island. Today, head even further south to Ishigaki island. Still part of Okinawa, Ishigaki technically sits closer to Taiwan than to mainland Japan. Join your CEO and fellow travelers for a delicious dinner sampling the famous Ishigaki beef.
Plane
Naha Airport - Ishigaki Airport
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Spend a free evening in Ishigaki before a group dinner.
Acommodation
Hotel Abianpana Ishigaki
Acommodation
Hotel Abianpana Ishigaki
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Dinner
Day 7 : Ishigaki
In the Hirakubo Peninsula in northern Ishigaki, hop aboard a Sabani, the traditional Okinawan sailboat, and cruise along the shores of the peninsula. Hop into the water to snorkel if you choose, or just admire the stunning untouched environment. These boats are hand carved in the traditional way from hollowed logs, and only hold 6 persons per boat. Enjoy this rare opportunity to enjoy a piece of Okinawan cultural heritage.
Climb aboard a traditional wooden Sabani Boat. Local to Okinawa, we'll sail in this dugout-cedar boat and have a chance to snorkel in the blue water through colorful reefs.
Spend your afternoon at leisure in the Ishigaki Port area.
Acommodation
Hotel Abianpana Ishigaki
Acommodation
Hotel Abianpana Ishigaki
Meals Included:
Breakfast
Day 8 : Taketomi Island
Just off the coast of the Ishigaki Port area is Taketomi Island, part of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Surrounded by coral reef, the island is actually constructed of coral walls and structures, creating a unique architectural look within Japan. The central Ryukyu village is the most well known feature of the island, full of red tiled roof buildings and tropical flowers. There are plenty of ways to explore Taketomi, but in true G Adventures style we opt for a bicycle to be able to zip around and see as much as possible.
Ferry
Ishigaki - Taketomi
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Taketomi Cycling
Taketomi
Hop on a bicycle and explore Taketomi's noteworthy stops. Starting at the Yugafu-kan cultural center, we'll then bike to Nishi Pier for a perfect view of the sea, to the white sands of Kondoi Beach for a swim and a snorkel, and to the traditional village of Taketomi. This tour will bring you to experience the picturesque beaches of the island and its well preserved history.
Ferry
Taketomi - Ishigaki
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Acommodation
Hotel Abianpana Ishigaki
Acommodation
Hotel Abianpana Ishigaki
Meals Included:
Breakfast
Day 9 : Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park
The island hopping continues as you head west again towards Iriomote island. Spend the day kayaking in a mangrove area, spotting birds and local flora you can only find in this area. Then hit the land and choose to hike to the top of Okinawa's tallest waterfall. After an epic day exploring the island, choose to join your CEO and fellow travelers for a farewell dinner back in Ishigaki.
Ferry
Ishigaki - Iriomote-jima
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Iriomote Kayak and Snorkelling Tour
Iriomote-jima
Glide through the Mangrove forest waterways in a kayak and learn about the importance of these amazing trees. You'll have the chance to observe the unique wildlife that the Mare and Hinai Rivers' ecosystem supports. Then head inland to trek to the top of Pinaisara Falls, Okinawa's tallest waterfall, with a chance to swim in the pool at the base of the falls.
Ferry
Iriomote-jima - Ishigaki
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Acommodation
Hotel Abianpana Ishigaki
Acommodation
Hotel Abianpana Ishigaki
Meals Included:
Breakfast
Day 10 : Ishigaki/Tokyo
We bid farewell to the beautiful archipelago of Okinawa and return to Japan's mainland. After breakfast, we'll catch a flight to Tokyo. Arrive to the the hotel and enjoy a free evening in Tokyo.
Plane
Ishigaki - Tokyo 3h
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Acommodation
Hotel Oriental Express Tokyo Kamata
Acommodation
Hotel Oriental Express Tokyo Kamata
Meals Included:
Breakfast
Day 11 : Tokyo
Today you have the chance to see the biggest city in Japan on a tour with your CEO. See highlights of this amazing city like Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Asakusa neighbourhood, Nakamise shopping street and the Imperial Palace. In the afternoon, spend your time in Tokyo how you'd like. Opt to visit cool neighborhoods like Akihabara or Harajuku. Find some green space in the famous Ueno Park. Or connect with Japanese history at Meijii Shrine.
Sensō-ji Temple Visit
Asakusa
Explore Sensō-ji Temple, a colourful Buddhist temple and the oldest temple in the entire city. Leading up to the temple the street is lined with shops selling yummy food and great souvenirs.
Imperial Palace East Gardens Walk
Tokyo
The Imperial Palace in Tokyo’s city centre is home to Japan’s Emperor and Empress. It is surrounded by a moat and three gardens, all open to the public. Stroll throughout the grounds, admire the azaleas and hydrangeas (when in season), discover the original stone wall that surrounded the palace back in 17th to 19th centuries during the days when samurai warriors defended the ruler. Visit nearby Sannomaru-Shozo-kan museum and see exquisite kimonos and Japanese paintings.
Enjoy a free afternoon in Tokyo.
Acommodation
Hotel Oriental Express Tokyo Kamata
Optional Activities - Day 11
Tokyo's Akihabara district is a cultural centre and shopping district for video games, anime, manga, and electronics.
The Harajuku district is known as the centre of Japanese youth culture and fashion. Here, find dozens of shopping and dining options including independent boutiques and larger international luxury stores.
As Japan's most popular city park, Ueno is known for its museums and cherry blossoms. Stroll the pathways, admire the thousands of trees, including approximately 800 Somei-yoshino cherry trees, look for lotus on the pond, or opt to visit the temples and museums (entrance fees).
Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) Visit
Tokyo
Visit this shrine dedicated to the 123rd emperor of Japan, Emperor Meiji and his wife. The shrine is a great place to escape the bustle of the city and wander the grounds along the wide walking paths.
Acommodation
Hotel Oriental Express Tokyo Kamata
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Dinner
Day 12 : Tokyo
Depart at any time.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
