Embark on a profound journey across Japan to trace the life and inspirations of the legendary ukiyo-e master, Katsushika Hokusai. This immersive itinerary seamlessly connects the dynamic energy of Tokyo with the serene, dramatic landscapes of Nagano. Crafted for active travelers who crave deep cultural connections and scenic adventures, this tour invites you to experience Japan not merely as an observer, but as an active participant.

Your exploration begins in Tokyo, the birthplace of Hokusai, where you will admire iconic masterpieces at the Sumida Hokusai Museum and engage in an exclusive, hands-on Edo Woodblock Print Experience. From the coastal views of Enoshima Island and the ancient shrines of Kamakura, your path leads into majestic alpine scenery via the Shinkansen (bullet train).

Adventure awaits as you hike the historic Usui Pass along the ancient Nakasendo highway and cycle through rustic countryside fields past breathtaking cliffside temples. You will awaken your inner artisan during a traditional soba-making class and learn the focused art of Japanese archery inside ancient fortress grounds.

As you journey deeper into Nagano, you will stand beneath Hokusai’s final phoenix ceiling painting in Obuse, walk the timeless stone streets of Shibu Onsen, and hike into the scenic valley of Jigokudani to witness the world-famous Snow Monkeys relaxing in natural hot springs. Your unforgettable journey culminates in a rare, spiritual overnight stay at a sacred Zenkoji temple lodging, complete with ancient dawn rituals.

This tour offers a perfect balance of guided activities and personal freedom. While expert English-speaking guides accompany you through all scheduled daytime experiences from Day 1 to Day 7, your evenings and lunch periods are open for independent discovery. Flights, daily lunches, select dinners (including the opening night cruise), and optional activities like the teamLab exhibition are not included in the main tour package, ensuring you have the ultimate flexibility to shape your own perfect adventure.

Day 01

Step Into the World of Hokusai and Cruise Tokyo Waters

Begin your journey in Tokyo, the birthplace of the legendary Ukiyo-e master, Katsushika Hokusai. Your adventure starts at the Sumida Hokusai Museum, a striking architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends modern design with timeless Edo-period art. Here, you will behold iconic woodblock prints, including The Great Wave off Kanagawa, and gain deep insights into the artist’s life.
As evening falls, enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop deck and spacious interiors with tatami seating. Whether it's a serene daytime cruise or a romantic evening under the stars, “Hokusai” promises an unforgettable journey through Tokyo's waterways.
Please note that dinner is not included in the standard tour package, allowing you the absolute freedom to select your own dining preferences or enjoy the optional onboard ambiance at your own leisure.

Day 02

Traditional Crafts and Hidden Tokyo Lanes

Immerse yourself in living history with an exclusive, hands-on Edo Woodblock Print Experience (Ukiyo-e). Guided by master techniques, you will create your very own Edo-style uchiwa fan on traditional paper.
Afterward, contrast this ancient craft with a peaceful stroll through the historical district of Kagurazaka. This charming neighborhood delights travelers with its narrow, winding alleys that preserve the authentic atmosphere of the Edo period, now beautifully juxtaposed with fashionable boutiques and cozy cafés.
You have your own time to explore this afternoon. Exploring the mind-bending digital art world of teamLab is one of the suggestions around this area.

Day 03

Coastal Wonders and Samurai History

Leave the neon lights behind and journey to the refreshing Shonan coast. Your active day begins with a panoramic loop walk around Enoshima Island, where crisp sea breezes and coastal shrines create a serene atmosphere. On clear days, the grand silhouette of Mt. Fuji stands majestically on the horizon.
Afterward, travel to the ancient samurai capital of Kamakura to visit the magnificent Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Walking up the grand stone steps of this deep-red spiritual landmark, you will feel the profound legacy of the Minamoto shoguns who shaped the destiny of medieval Japan.

Day 04

High-Speed Rails and Mountain Trails

Board the world-famous Shinkansen (bullet train) and race toward the fresh mountain air of Karuizawa.
Today, with your guide, you will hike along the historic Usui Pass trail, a scenic portion of the ancient Nakasendo highway that once connected Tokyo and Kyoto. Your rewarding walk leads to a stunning viewpoint offering sweeping, uninterrupted panoramas of the vast Kanto Plain and active volcanic peaks. Discover a thousand year old shrine that uniquely sits directly on the border of two prefectures before concluding your afternoon with a stroll down the charming pedestrian streets of Karuizawa Ginza, filled with local treats and artisanal crafts.
Your stay will be at one of the Karuizawa's 4 star hotel.

Day 05

Cycling and Cultural Experience at Komoro

Get ready to dive into the hidden gem of Nagano.
Pedal through a rustic trail that winds through fields and gentle hills, leading to Nunobiki Kannon, a temple dramatically perched on a cliffside. The sight of its wooden hall clinging to the rock face has inspired pilgrims for hundreds of years.
Next, awaken your inner chef during a hands-on, traditional soba-making experience, where you will roll, cut, and savor your own lunch.
Highlight of the day is an archery experience at one of Japan’s 100 famous castles, Komoro Castle Ruins.
It is a rare experience that can be done in an ancient castle with a history of about 500 years under the guidance of high-ranking masters.
For your evening, you may opt to visit a vast, nearby resort shopping plaza for a relaxed dinner on your own.

Day 06

Masterpieces and Historic Hot Springs

Journey deeper into the heart of Nagano to the artistic town of Obuse, where the culmination of Hokusai's original paintings blossomed.
Your senses will come alive at a historic temple, where you can lie flat on the traditional tatami mats to look up at a vivid, massive phoenix ceiling painting—Hokusai's final, grand masterpiece created at eighty-nine years of age. After wandering through charming streets scented with local chestnuts, you will travel to the nostalgic hot spring village of Shibu Onsen. Walk the stone-paved streets to discover hidden poetic monuments, and spend your evening soaking in relaxing, mineral-rich thermal waters before enjoying a splendid traditional dinner.

Day 07

Snow Monkeys and Sacred Sanctuaries

Prepare for one of Japan’s most unforgettable wildlife encounters as you hike into the scenic valley of Jigokudani. Here, you will watch the world-famous Snow Monkeys as they lazily soak in steaming, natural hot spring pools, perfectly capturing the harmony between raw nature and Japanese onsen culture. Afterward, your journey brings you to the spiritual heart of Nagano for an exclusive overnight stay at a traditional Shukubo (Buddhist temple lodging). This rare cultural immersion provides a tranquil atmosphere and features an exquisite, multi-course vegetarian dinner prepared lovingly by the temple hosts.

Day 08

Dawn Rituals and Lasting Memories

Your spiritual pilgrimage concludes with a profound, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Awaken before dawn to attend the solemn Morning Buddhist Service inside the sacred main hall of Zenkoji Temple. Witnessing the ancient rituals, listening to the rhythmic chanting of the monks, and participating in this serene tradition will impart a deep sense of peace that you will carry with you long after your journey ends. Following a final, nourishing breakfast at your temple lodging, your unforgettable tour concludes, leaving you perfectly positioned to continue your exploration of majestic Japan.

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