Discover the hidden gems and timeless beauty of Japan as you embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the country where breathtaking landscapes, timeless cultural treasures, and exquisite cuisine await at every turn. From the tranquil waters of Lake Suwa to the vineyards of Yamanashi, and the spiritual heritage of Takeda Shrine, each day promises unforgettable experiences and privileged access to the country’s rich culture and natural wonders. Delight in authentic culinary adventures and savor the perfect blend of tradition and modern comfort. Let each day inspire as you explore the very best that Japan has to offer while creating lasting memories in Japan’s picturesque heartland.
Special Notes:
•This small group program is limited to 10 guests.
•Due to the nature of this program and as certain sites or modes of transportation are not accessible, it is not available for guests who require use of a walker, wheelchair or motorized scooter.
•Please advise the RSSC Reservations team when you book this program should you have any special dietary restrictions or requirements. Requests will be sent to our local ground operators for review. In Japan, dietary requests including vegetarian cannot be accommodated on the day, so please notify in advance for review.
DAY 1
Upon arrival at either the Narita or Haneda International Airports in Tokyo, you will be met at the exit of the Custom’s area. A private transfer will bring you to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at your leisure. Meals are on your own.
Your hotel is located in close proximity to the peaceful Gotenyama Garden which provides a sense of serenity in the heart of bustling central Tokyo.
Note: A private van or SUV will be used to transfer couples or parties of two between the airport and the hotel. Vans hold a maximum of four pieces of large luggage (total) plus one carry-on sized bag per person. A sedan will be used for solo guests, which can hold 2 large suitcases and a carry-on. If you will have more luggage, a larger vehicle may be required for additional cost. Please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before sailing if a larger vehicle is required. Transfers are with driver only
Check in time at the hotel is at 4:00pm.
Although every effort will be made to have the rooms available before this time, this cannot be guaranteed. Should you have a very early morning arrival you may wish to book an extra night so that your room is available when you arrive.
Luggage Information: Since large pieces of luggage cannot be accommodated on the bullet train and there is no porter assistance at the train station, please prepare a carry-on size piece of luggage per person for Day’s 2-5. Excess luggage will be collected in the morning on Day 2 before departure, stored and then sent directly to the ship. Please remember to label and lock any excess pieces to be stored and bring with you and valuables, medications and documents including your passport.
DAY 2
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. Excess luggage to be stored and brought to the cruise terminal on Day 5 will be collected before you depart.
Meet your dedicated guide in the hotel lobby and embark on a seamless transfer to the JR bullet train station, where the adventure truly begins.
Settle into your comfortable seat aboard the cutting-edge JR bullet train and marvel as you glide effortlessly through the Japanese countryside toward Nagano—a scenic journey lasting just 1.5 hours, offering glimpses of picturesque landscapes along the way.
Upon arrival in Nagano, savor a delightful lunch at a carefully selected local venue, where you’ll sample regional flavors and specialties that capture the essence of Japanese cuisine.
The first highlight of the afternoon is the Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the legendary ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai. Opened in 1976, this museum is a treasure trove of Hokusai’s iconic woodblock prints, including vibrant multi-colored Nishiki-e “brocade pictures” and intricate festival floats. Art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike will be captivated by the museum’s engaging exhibits, which reveal Hokusai’s innovative spirit and enduring influence on global art.
Next, enjoy a tranquil stroll along Obuse-kurino Komachi, a charming path paved with chestnut wood. This enchanting walk immerses you in the local culture, as you discover quaint sweets shops offering delectable chestnut treats and meander through beautifully tended gardens. It’s the perfect opportunity to sample handmade confections and soak in the harmonious blend of nature and tradition that defines this unique neighborhood.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the serene Ganshoin Temple, renowned for its breathtaking ceiling painting, a masterpiece of ukiyo-e art created by Hokusai himself. As you step inside, gaze upward to admire the vivid depiction of phoenixes soaring across the ceiling, an awe-inspiring highlight that encapsulates the temple’s spiritual and artistic significance.
As the day draws to a close, gather for dinner and reflect on the day’s discoveries including the timeless beauty of Japanese art and heritage.
Note: Some of the gardens you will see with the signs “Welcome to My Garden” are private gardens – they are open to visitors, but it is asked that you keep talking volume at a lower level out of respect for the owners that may be home. The hotel in Nagano is not a luxury hotel but rooms will be clean and comfortable for your one night stay.
Day 3
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before checking out and joining your expert guide for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Nagano’s cultural and natural wonders.
Your first stop is the legendary Zenkoji Temple, a spiritual sanctuary that has stood for over 1,300 years, blending majestic Buddhist architecture with serene natural beauty. Marvel at the awe-inspiring main hall—an architectural masterpiece crafted from 60,000 pieces of wood and crowned with a cypress bark roof, now designated as a National Treasure. Venture into the inner chamber, stepping through a mysterious passage where you may discover the fabled hidden key—said to bestow enlightenment upon those who find it, offering a truly unique and spiritual experience.
Next, escape to the tranquil Daio Wasabi Farm, the largest in Japan, nestled amidst Nagano’s peaceful countryside. Stroll along scenic walking trails winding through vibrant wasabi fields and witness firsthand the fascinating process of cultivating this prized Japanese ingredient. Indulge your senses with an array of creative wasabi-inspired treats, including the must-try wasabi ice cream, available at charming on-site shops.
Savor a gourmet lunch at the Wasabi Farm, where fresh, local produce and succulent meats are artfully paired with the farm’s signature wasabi, offering a distinctive taste of Nagano’s culinary heritage.
Your afternoon brings you to the iconic Matsumoto Castle, Japan’s oldest surviving six-story castle and a true architectural marvel. Built in 1594, this historic fortress impresses with its expansive moat, imposing stonework, and breathtaking backdrop of the Northern Alps. Wander through meticulously landscaped gardens and explore the castle’s remarkable wooden interiors, immersing yourself in centuries of samurai history and Japanese elegance.
Proceed to your hotel in Omachi City and surrounded by the Northern Alps of Japan. Here you can relax and unwind by the open fireplace after an adventurous day or enjoy a soothing soak in the naturally warmed hot spring bath.
Check in and conclude your day with dinner at the hotel and a chance to reflect on the exceptional experiences and timeless beauty that define this extraordinary journey through Nagano.
Special Notes:
•To enter the inner chamber of Zenkoji, guests are required to remove their shoes and navigate a narrow staircase that leads into a dark, underground corridor.
•As Daio Wasabi Farm is an active working farm, certain sections may occasionally be restricted due to harvesting, maintenance, or other operations. Depending on the season, access and visibility to some areas may be limited, and black sails or sunshades might be installed over the wasabi fields at various times of the year.
•When visiting Matsumoto Castle, guests must take off their shoes at the entrance and place them in a provided bag, which they will carry throughout their visit inside. The main structure features roughly 140 steps to climb.
DAY 4
Begin your day with breakfast before meeting your guide in the hotel lobby for an unforgettable excursion to Lake Suwa—Nagano Prefecture’s sparkling gem, encircled by majestic mountains.
Take in the mesmerizing, mirrored vistas where peaks and sky reflect in tranquil waters, offering the perfect backdrop for photos and moments of serenity. At Lake Suwa Park’s Geyser Center, witness the dramatic eruption of the lakeside geyser, a spectacle just steps from the building. Relax and rejuvenate with a soothing foot bath on the first floor or immerse yourself in local culture with engaging exhibits upstairs.
Next, savor a taste of Japan’s celebrated wine heritage in Yamanashi, the heartland and birthplace of Japanese winemaking. This renowned region produces about 30% of the country’s wine, thanks to its ideal climate and the signature Koshu grape. Explore a leading local winery, sample historical vintages, and enjoy a gourmet lunch at a local restaurant near the winery.
Afterwards, journey to Takeda Shrine in Kofu, a revered site steeped in samurai legend and spiritual significance. Established in 1919 on the historic grounds of the Takeda family’s residence, the shrine honors Takeda Shingen, Kofu’s most celebrated samurai. Wander through sacred spaces, discover fascinating relics, and visit the iconic “Shingen-ko’s Well” for an authentic glimpse into the storied lifestyle of this legendary clan.
As evening falls, check in to a unique hotel that artfully combines Western comfort and traditional Japanese charm. At this traditional Japanese Ryokan which is located in the highlands at the foot of Mt. Fuji, enjoy spacious rooms with comfortable beds and unwind in private hot spring bath, a soothing way to complete your day of exploration. Note: In keeping with Japanese custom, shoes are removed upon entering your room, enhancing the authentic cultural experience.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at the hotel, reflecting on your remarkable journey through Japan’s picturesque heartland.
Note: Guests must be 20 years or older to enter the winery. Guests will be guided to the VIP room for a brief seminar (with English translation by the guide) and an exclusively arranged wine tasting including 3 kinds of wine
Shoes will need to be removed at the restaurant for lunch.
Day 5
After a restful stay, check out from your hotel and join your guide in the lobby for the final leg of your journey.
Set out on a scenic drive to Oshino Hakkai, a captivating cluster of eight crystal-clear spring ponds designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fed by pure snowmelt from the slopes of majestic Mt. Fuji, these ponds were honored as one of Japan’s Best Water Sources in 1985. On clear days, marvel at breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji rising in the background—a truly unforgettable sight.
Your journey culminates at the Tokyo Cruise Terminal, where you’ll seamlessly embark on your ship and be reunited with any stored luggage—ushering in the next chapter of your extraordinary Japanese experience.
Land Program Details Step by Step
•The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.
•Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive a final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review the letter and your final itinerary carefully for further amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.
Extra Nights
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the hotel that is used on the FIRST NIGHT of your land program
•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 3:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.
•If you have an early arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 3:00pm.
•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.
DAY 1
Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport
Meet your driver at the exit and transfer to your hotel by private vehicle
3:00pm Check in time at the hotel
Afternoon at your leisure with lunch and dinner on your own
Overnight at Tokyo Marriot Hotel or similar
•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs, and the luggage claim area.
•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.
•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.
•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.
DAY 2
AM Breakfast at your hotel
9:00am Luggage separation, excess to be stored
9:15am Check out, settle any incidentals before departing
9:30am Meet your guide in the hotel lobby
Transfer to the Bullet Train station
10:22am Travel to Nagano by JR bullet train
12:45pm Lunch at a local restaurant
1:45pm Visit the Hokusai Museum
3:30pm Visit Kurino-komachi, Ganshoin Temple.
5:00pm Check in at your hotel
7:00pm Dinner at the hotel or at a local venue (TBA)
Overnight at JAL City Nagano hotel or similar
DAY 3
AM Breakfast at your hotel
8:15am Check out, settle any incidentals before departing
8:30am Meet your guide in the hotel lobby
8:45am Tour to Zenkoji Temple, Matsumoto Castle, Daiowasabi farm with lunch
2:00pm Return to your hotel
Afternoon at your leisure
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at ANA holiday INN Resort Shinano Omachi Kuroyon or similar hotel
DAY 4
AM Breakfast at your hotel
8:45am Check out, settle any incidentals before departing
9:00am Meet your guide, guided tour to Suwa lake, wine tasting at winery, visit Takeda Shrine
4:30pm Drive to your hotel and check in
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at Kaneyamaen: Sanri or similar hotel
Day 5
AM Breakfast at your hotel
8:15am Check out, settle any incidentals before departing
8:30am Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and drive to Oshino Hakkai followed by a transfer to the Tokyo cruise terminal
1:30pm Approximate arrival at Tokyo cruise terminal for embarkation
Weather
The average high in October in Tokyo is 18 C (64 F). In the mountainous region you can expect the temperatures to drop especially at night and in the mornings.
What to bring:
Comfortable, warm, weather appropriate clothing that can be layered, umbrella or rain jacket, bathing suit, hat, sunscreen, camera, chargers, local currency.
Local Currency:
Japanese yen
USD are not widely accepted therefore you will need to change your money into local currency
Major credit cards will be accepted in most places
Electricity
100 Volt, Type A plug
We recommend you bring a universal travel adapter for electric devices.
Note: Distilled water is NOT available at the hotels. Guests are required to bring their own.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required.
Please check with your local embassy for any visa requirements to Japan for your nationality
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.
Accommodation:
Tokyo Marriot Hotel
4 Chome-7-36 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 140-0001, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5488-3911
ANA holiday INN Resort Shinano Omachi Kuroyon
2020, Taira, Omachi City, Nagano 398-0001
Phone: 0261-22-1530
JAL City Nagano
1221 Toigosyo-machi, Nagano-shi, Nagano, 380-0834, Japan
Phone: 026-225-1131
Kaneyamaen: Sanri (Traditional Japanese Ryokan)
9-1-18 Kamiyoshida Higashi, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
Phone: 0555-22-3168 (9:00am-6:00pm)
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•1 night at the Tokyo Marriott Hotel or similar hotel - Urban deluxe double/Twin with breakfast
•1 night at the Holiday Inn Resort Shinano-Omachi Kuroyon or similar hotel - new wing double/twin with private hot spring bath and breakfast
•1 night at the JAL City Nagano or similar hotel - New Standard floor deluxe twin with breakfast
•1 night at Hotel Kaneyamaen: Sanri or similar - Mt.Fuji view with hot spring bath and breakfast
•All entrances and tours per the above itinerary
•3 Lunches and 3 dinners per the itinerary – 1 soft drink included duringlunches; 1 glass of wine or beer or soft drink included during dinners
•Private airport transfer on Day 1
•Hospitality Desk on Day 1
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Gratuities for drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service
•Any meals or beverages not indicated in the above itinerary
Please note:
Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.
Price: $4,399 per guest based on double occupancy.
Hotel and Land Program pricing is not combinable with FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Luxury Hotel Package. If applicable, please contact Regent Seven Seas Cruises or your travel agent for multi-night pre-cruise hotel pricing information. Land program promotions are subject to terms.
