Japan Heritage Tour

Day 1
Osaka Arrival & Exploration – A Blend of History and Modernity

• Morning: Arrival & Hotel Check-In

  • Your adventure begins! You’ll be met by your private driver at Kansai International Airport (KIX).
  • Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Osaka.
  • Check-in time at the hotel is 15:00 (3:00 PM).

• Lunch:

  • Enjoy lunch on your own! Osaka is a food lover’s paradise. Consider trying some local delicacies like Takoyaki (octopus balls) or Okonomiyaki (savory pancake).

• Afternoon: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori Delights

  • Meet your ESG representative in the hotel lobby.
  • Osaka Castle: Prepare to be awestruck by Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city. This majestic castle, originally built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, has a rich and turbulent history. Learn about the castle’s role in the unification of Japan, and admire the stunning architecture and the surrounding park, which is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season. Did you know that the current castle is a reconstruction, but the interior museum houses fascinating artifacts and historical information?
  • Dotonbori Shopping Street: Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Dotonbori! This iconic entertainment district is known for its dazzling lights, extravagant signage (like the famous Glico Running Man), and incredible street food. Wander along the canal, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy some free time to shop for souvenirs, sample local snacks, or simply people-watch. Look for the giant crab sign!

• Evening:

  • Your ESG representative will drop you off at your hotel lobby.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner on your own. Osaka offers a huge variety of dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eateries. Consider exploring the Namba or Umeda areas for dinner choices.

• Overnight: Relax and recharge at your hotel in Osaka.

Day 2
From Osaka to Hiroshima – A Journey Through History and Serenity

• Morning:
  • Fuel Up: Enjoy breakfast at your Osaka hotel (B).
  • Meet & Greet: Your ESG guide meets you at the hotel lobby.
  • Bullet Train Bound: Private transfer to Shin-Osaka Station. Board the Nozomi Shinkansen (bullet train) for a swift 88-minute journey to Hiroshima. Get ready for breathtaking views of the Japanese countryside!
• Hiroshima Exploration:
  • Miyajima Island by Ferry: From Hiroshima Station, you’ll transfer to Miyajimaguchi. Take a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island, famous for its serene beauty.
  • Itsukushima Shrine: Arrive at Miyajima Island, and be awestruck by the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. This stunning Shinto shrine, with its vibrant red “floating” torii gate, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and seems to float on the water during high tide. Capture some amazing photos!
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch on your own at Miyajima Island or Hiroshima City (L). You’ll find delicious local specialties.
• Afternoon:
  • Peace Memorial Park & Museum: Journey to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Reflect on the events of the atomic bombing and learn about the city’s remarkable recovery and dedication to peace.
  • Atomic Bomb Dome: Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, a poignant reminder of the past, now a symbol of peace.
• Evening:
  • Return to Osaka: Board the Nozomi Shinkansen back to Shin-Osaka Station (88 minutes).
  • Hotel Drop-off: Transfer back to your Osaka hotel via private car.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner on your own in Osaka (D). Explore the vibrant culinary scene!
  • Overnight: Relax and recharge at your Osaka hotel.

Day 3
DEP OSAKA – HIMEJI TOUR: A Day of History and Beauty

• Morning: Osaka to Himeji – Journey Through Time

  • Wake up refreshed and enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Osaka. Check out and meet your ESG representative in the lobby.
  • Prepare for a day trip to Himeji, a city steeped in history and home to one of Japan’s most spectacular castles!

• Himeji’s Highlights: A Castle and a Garden

  • Himeji Castle:
    • Get ready to be awestruck! The “White Heron Castle,” also known as Himeji Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Japanese castle architecture.
    • Interesting Fact: This castle is so well-preserved it survived both WWII bombings and the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake with minimal damage. It’s a testament to its incredible construction!
    • Explore the castle’s intricate layout, climb its wooden staircases, and imagine the lives of samurai and feudal lords who once walked these grounds.
  • Koko-en Garden:
    • Just a short walk from Himeji Castle, you’ll find the serene Koko-en Garden.
    • Interesting Fact: This beautiful garden was created in 1992 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Himeji City. It comprises nine different walled gardens, each designed in a unique style reflecting the Edo period.
    • Wander through the tranquil landscapes, admire the meticulously arranged plants, ponds, and bridges, and find your own moment of peace.

• Lunch on Your Own:

  • Enjoy lunch at your leisure. Himeji offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Japanese cuisine to modern cafes. Try some local specialties!

• Afternoon: Farewell to Japan

  • Transfer to KIX International Airport (Kansai International Airport).
  • Interesting Fact: KIX is built on a man-made island in Osaka Bay!
  • Board your flight, filled with sweet memories of your Himeji adventure and your time in Japan.

• Return Home with Memories

Note: For best tour timing, take a very early flight to Japan and a late flight Departure.