November 12 - 21, 2025

$

6595

Per Person/Double Occupancy
$1400 Additional/Single Occupancy

Essence of Japan

Featuring the Yokohama World Quilt Festival

Dive into Japan’s rich tapestry: Tokyo’s energetic lanes, Kyoto’s tranquil Gion district, and age-old temples. Attend the Yokohama World Quilt Festivals, indulge in genuine Japanese fare, and grasp Japan’s historical depth and lively present. It’s a cultural feast, blending ancient traditions with modern vibes, offering unparalleled experiences.

Locations

Tokyo

Hakone

Nagoya

Kyoto

Marvel at Japan’s unique fusion of tradition and modernity on this immersive 10-day tour. Experience Tokyo’s historic charm, the peaceful allure of Hakone, and Kyoto’s artistic pulse, enriched by hands-on craft workshops, memorable culinary experiences, and visits to iconic landmarks

This Tour Includes

TAPESTRY Series

Small groups, big experiences, independent spirit.

9 Nights

Hotel accommodations, including baggage handling

13 Meals

American breakfast daily, 4 dinners

Admissions

Guided sightseeing, visits, and admissions as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary

Airfare & Transfers

Round-trip international airfare from LAX; Group transfer upon arrival and for departure

Tour Manager

Full time, English-speaking throughout the trip

Hand-Selected Hotels

Tokyo
Tokyo Dome Hotel
Hakone
Fuji Marriott Lake Yamanaka
Nagoya
Courtyard by Marriott Nagoya
Kyoto
Dhawa Yura Kyoto

Top-Rated Highlights

  • Kick-off Welcome Dinner
  • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
  • Nakamise Shopping Market
  • Kimekomi Doll Making Workshop
  • Nippori Textile Town Fabric Shopping
  • Itchiku Kubota Art Museum
  • Traditional Kaiseki Dinner
  • Japanese Home Visit with Family Dinner
  • Golden Pavilion Temple
  • Gion District Walking Tour
  • Kiyomizu Temple
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine
  • Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts
  • Shibori Dyeing Workshop
  • Kyoto Shopping Arcades
  • Traditional Japanese Farewell Dinner
  • Geisha Performance

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Visits, admissions, and special features are shown in bold.
» Country Heritage Tours

Tour Begins: Tokyo, Japan

|

Tour Ends: Osaka, Japan

Scroll to See Full Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Tokyo Dinner

Embrace the allure of Japan as you step into Tokyo, a city where tradition meets modernity. After settling into your hotel, let the Japanese culture captivate you. An evening Welcome Dinner with your Tour Manager and fellow quilting enthusiasts sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Day 2 Tokyo Breakfast, Dinner

Begin your exploration of Tokyo experiencing the spiritual heritage of the city at Asakusa Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Meander through the lively Nakamise Street, a shopping haven since the 1500s. Meet with a master of Kimekomi Doll making and learn the skills of this 300 year old craft in a hands-on masterclass. Later, shop for unique cotton prints, notions, and tools at Quilt Party, the quilt shop featuring famous craft works of Yoko Saito. Conclude the day with a delectable Japanese dinner, where you can relish the authentic flavors of the region.

Day 3 Tokyo - Yokohama Breakfast

Following breakfast, enjoy the scenic ride out of Tokyo to Yokohama, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant port city. Spend the day immersed in creativity and artistry at the Yokohama World Quilt Festival, a renowned event showcasing exquisite quilts and textile designs from around the globe. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship, gain inspiration from world-class artists and discover the unique vendors of wares. Whether you’re an avid quilter or an admirer of fine art, this unforgettable opportunity will ignite your creativity for years to come.

 

Day 4 Tokyo Breakfast

Begin the day visiting a historic Tokyo dyeing studio at a stencil workshop, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn time-honored techniques from skilled artisans. Immerse yourself in Japanese tradition as you work with intricate kimono floral patterns to create your own beautifully dyed fabric keepsake. Later, visit Nipori Textile Town to browse floor after floor of quilting cottons, Japanese silks, sashiko fabric and supplies, and antique kimonos.  Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon to explore Tokyo at your own pace.

 

 

 

 

Day 5 Hakone - Lake Kawaguchi - Hakone Breakfast, Dinner

Today, you’ll visit the Itchiku Kubota Museum, a tribute to the man who breathed life back into the ancient silk-dyeing technique for kimonos. Leaving the museum’s serene location on Lake Kawaguchi behind, brace yourself for a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji as you head to Hakone. Once in Hakone, enjoy a traditional Kaiseki dinner and a soothing hot spring bath, a quintessential Japanese experience that will rejuvenate your spirit

 

Day 6 Hakone - Nagoya Breakfast, Dinner

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Nagoya, with stunning views of Suruga Bay. Stop for picturesque moments along the way, then participate in a Tea Ceremony experience, learning the intricate knowledge needed for proper brewing. Tonight, join a local family for a traditional Japanese cooking experience, immersing yourself in their culture and savoring delicacies that YOU cook with the guidance of a sensi.

 

Day 7 Nagoya - Kyoto Breakfast

Today, travel to Kyoto, the cultural epicenter of Japan. Visit the awe-inspiring Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a golden edifice that reflects Japan’s medieval heritage. Take in the stunning vistas of Mount Kinugasa after checking into your hotel. Explore the Gion district, known for its Geishas in colorful kimonos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that colors the streets of Kyoto.

 

 

Day 8 Kyoto Breakfast

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its countless vermilion torii gates. The rest of the evening is yours to discover Kyoto’s lively nightlife, perhaps sample some local street food, or simply enjoy the city’s serene ambiance.

 

 

 

Day 9 Kyoto Breakfast, Dinner

Experience the craftsmanship of Kyoto at the Museum of Traditional Crafts. Witness the artistry of fabric dyeing, woodblock prints, washi papermaking, and more. Spend your afternoon wandering through Kyoto’s bustling shopping arcades, a perfect opportunity to find unique souvenirs or gifts. Celebrate your final evening with traditional Japanese fare and a mesmerizing Geisha performance, a beautiful cultural experience that will serve as a memorable conclusion to your trip.

 

 

Day 10 Kyoto - Tokyo - End of Tour Breakfast

Enjoy one more Japanese breakfast before boarding the Bullet Train to Tokyo and transferring to Narita Airport to bid farewell to the beautiful journey you’ve had in Japan. As you reflect on your journey, you’ll likely find that the experiences you’ve had and the connections you’ve made have enriched your understanding of Japanese culture and textile traditions.

» Country Heritage Tours
Day 1
Arrive Tokyo
Dinner

Embrace the allure of Japan as you step into Tokyo, a city where tradition meets modernity. After settling into your hotel, let the Japanese culture captivate you. An evening Welcome Dinner with your Tour Manager and fellow quilting enthusiasts sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Day 2
Tokyo
Breakfast, Dinner

Begin your exploration of Tokyo experiencing the spiritual heritage of the city at Asakusa Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Meander through the lively Nakamise Street, a shopping haven since the 1500s. Meet with a master of Kimekomi Doll making and learn the skills of this 300 year old craft in a hands-on masterclass. Later, shop for unique cotton prints, notions, and tools at Quilt Party, the quilt shop featuring famous craft works of Yoko Saito. Conclude the day with a delectable Japanese dinner, where you can relish the authentic flavors of the region.

Day 3
Tokyo - Yokohama
Breakfast

Following breakfast, enjoy the scenic ride out of Tokyo to Yokohama, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant port city. Spend the day immersed in creativity and artistry at the Yokohama World Quilt Festival, a renowned event showcasing exquisite quilts and textile designs from around the globe. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship, gain inspiration from world-class artists and discover the unique vendors of wares. Whether you’re an avid quilter or an admirer of fine art, this unforgettable opportunity will ignite your creativity for years to come.

 

Day 4
Tokyo
Breakfast

Begin the day visiting a historic Tokyo dyeing studio at a stencil workshop, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn time-honored techniques from skilled artisans. Immerse yourself in Japanese tradition as you work with intricate kimono floral patterns to create your own beautifully dyed fabric keepsake. Later, visit Nipori Textile Town to browse floor after floor of quilting cottons, Japanese silks, sashiko fabric and supplies, and antique kimonos.  Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon to explore Tokyo at your own pace.

 

 

 

 

Day 5
Hakone - Lake Kawaguchi - Hakone
Breakfast, Dinner

Today, you’ll visit the Itchiku Kubota Museum, a tribute to the man who breathed life back into the ancient silk-dyeing technique for kimonos. Leaving the museum’s serene location on Lake Kawaguchi behind, brace yourself for a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji as you head to Hakone. Once in Hakone, enjoy a traditional Kaiseki dinner and a soothing hot spring bath, a quintessential Japanese experience that will rejuvenate your spirit

 

Day 6
Hakone - Nagoya
Breakfast, Dinner

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Nagoya, with stunning views of Suruga Bay. Stop for picturesque moments along the way, then participate in a Tea Ceremony experience, learning the intricate knowledge needed for proper brewing. Tonight, join a local family for a traditional Japanese cooking experience, immersing yourself in their culture and savoring delicacies that YOU cook with the guidance of a sensi.

 

Day 7
Nagoya - Kyoto
Breakfast

Today, travel to Kyoto, the cultural epicenter of Japan. Visit the awe-inspiring Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a golden edifice that reflects Japan’s medieval heritage. Take in the stunning vistas of Mount Kinugasa after checking into your hotel. Explore the Gion district, known for its Geishas in colorful kimonos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that colors the streets of Kyoto.

 

 

Day 8
Kyoto
Breakfast

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its countless vermilion torii gates. The rest of the evening is yours to discover Kyoto’s lively nightlife, perhaps sample some local street food, or simply enjoy the city’s serene ambiance.

 

 

 

Day 9
Kyoto
Breakfast, Dinner

Experience the craftsmanship of Kyoto at the Museum of Traditional Crafts. Witness the artistry of fabric dyeing, woodblock prints, washi papermaking, and more. Spend your afternoon wandering through Kyoto’s bustling shopping arcades, a perfect opportunity to find unique souvenirs or gifts. Celebrate your final evening with traditional Japanese fare and a mesmerizing Geisha performance, a beautiful cultural experience that will serve as a memorable conclusion to your trip.

 

 

Day 10
Kyoto - Tokyo - End of Tour
Breakfast

Enjoy one more Japanese breakfast before boarding the Bullet Train to Tokyo and transferring to Narita Airport to bid farewell to the beautiful journey you’ve had in Japan. As you reflect on your journey, you’ll likely find that the experiences you’ve had and the connections you’ve made have enriched your understanding of Japanese culture and textile traditions.

» Country Heritage Tours
Day 1
Arrive Tokyo
Dinner

Embrace the allure of Japan as you step into Tokyo, a city where tradition meets modernity. After settling into your hotel, let the Japanese culture captivate you. An evening Welcome Dinner with your Tour Manager and fellow quilting enthusiasts sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Day 2
Tokyo
Breakfast, Dinner

Begin your exploration of Tokyo experiencing the spiritual heritage of the city at Asakusa Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Meander through the lively Nakamise Street, a shopping haven since the 1500s. Meet with a master of Kimekomi Doll making and learn the skills of this 300 year old craft in a hands-on masterclass. Later, shop for unique cotton prints, notions, and tools at Quilt Party, the quilt shop featuring famous craft works of Yoko Saito. Conclude the day with a delectable Japanese dinner, where you can relish the authentic flavors of the region.

Day 3
Tokyo - Yokohama
Breakfast

Following breakfast, enjoy the scenic ride out of Tokyo to Yokohama, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant port city. Spend the day immersed in creativity and artistry at the Yokohama World Quilt Festival, a renowned event showcasing exquisite quilts and textile designs from around the globe. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship, gain inspiration from world-class artists and discover the unique vendors of wares. Whether you’re an avid quilter or an admirer of fine art, this unforgettable opportunity will ignite your creativity for years to come.

 

Day 4
Tokyo
Breakfast

Begin the day visiting a historic Tokyo dyeing studio at a stencil workshop, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn time-honored techniques from skilled artisans. Immerse yourself in Japanese tradition as you work with intricate kimono floral patterns to create your own beautifully dyed fabric keepsake. Later, visit Nipori Textile Town to browse floor after floor of quilting cottons, Japanese silks, sashiko fabric and supplies, and antique kimonos.  Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon to explore Tokyo at your own pace.

 

 

 

 

Day 5
Hakone - Lake Kawaguchi - Hakone
Breakfast, Dinner

Today, you’ll visit the Itchiku Kubota Museum, a tribute to the man who breathed life back into the ancient silk-dyeing technique for kimonos. Leaving the museum’s serene location on Lake Kawaguchi behind, brace yourself for a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji as you head to Hakone. Once in Hakone, enjoy a traditional Kaiseki dinner and a soothing hot spring bath, a quintessential Japanese experience that will rejuvenate your spirit

 

Day 6
Hakone - Nagoya
Breakfast, Dinner

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Nagoya, with stunning views of Suruga Bay. Stop for picturesque moments along the way, then participate in a Tea Ceremony experience, learning the intricate knowledge needed for proper brewing. Tonight, join a local family for a traditional Japanese cooking experience, immersing yourself in their culture and savoring delicacies that YOU cook with the guidance of a sensi.

 

Day 7
Nagoya - Kyoto
Breakfast

Today, travel to Kyoto, the cultural epicenter of Japan. Visit the awe-inspiring Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a golden edifice that reflects Japan’s medieval heritage. Take in the stunning vistas of Mount Kinugasa after checking into your hotel. Explore the Gion district, known for its Geishas in colorful kimonos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that colors the streets of Kyoto.

 

 

Day 8
Kyoto
Breakfast

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its countless vermilion torii gates. The rest of the evening is yours to discover Kyoto’s lively nightlife, perhaps sample some local street food, or simply enjoy the city’s serene ambiance.

 

 

 

Day 9
Kyoto
Breakfast, Dinner

Experience the craftsmanship of Kyoto at the Museum of Traditional Crafts. Witness the artistry of fabric dyeing, woodblock prints, washi papermaking, and more. Spend your afternoon wandering through Kyoto’s bustling shopping arcades, a perfect opportunity to find unique souvenirs or gifts. Celebrate your final evening with traditional Japanese fare and a mesmerizing Geisha performance, a beautiful cultural experience that will serve as a memorable conclusion to your trip.

 

 

Day 10
Kyoto - Tokyo - End of Tour
Breakfast

Enjoy one more Japanese breakfast before boarding the Bullet Train to Tokyo and transferring to Narita Airport to bid farewell to the beautiful journey you’ve had in Japan. As you reflect on your journey, you’ll likely find that the experiences you’ve had and the connections you’ve made have enriched your understanding of Japanese culture and textile traditions.

November 12 - 21, 2025

$

6595

Per Person/Double Occupancy

+$1400

Additional/Single Occupancy

Reserve Your Essence of Japan Tour

A non-refundable $200 deposit per person is required for booking. Before completing your reservation, be sure you read and understand our Cancellation Policy and Terms & Conditions.

Essence of Japan

Space for this tour is limited. Please contact us to discuss accommodation options and availability.