Sacred Tokyo, Creative Flavours and a Bullet Train Adventure
Begin an extraordinary day by stepping away from Tokyo’s fast-paced streets and entering the peaceful forest surrounding Meiji Shrine, one of the city’s most important Shinto sanctuaries. Pass beneath the enormous torii gates and follow tranquil pathways through a vast woodland of thousands of trees donated from across Japan. As you approach the shrine, your guide will explain the traditional purification rituals, Shinto customs and the significance of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, to whom the shrine is dedicated. You may also witness worshippers presenting prayers, writing wishes on wooden ema plaques or taking part in a traditional ceremony—a wonderfully calm and atmospheric start to the day.
Next, discover the precision and creativity behind Japan’s most famous cuisine during an interactive sushi-making workshop. Under the guidance of skilled chefs, learn how to prepare perfectly seasoned rice, select and arrange ingredients, shape nigiri and roll beautifully presented maki. The workshop offers an entertaining introduction to Japanese culinary traditions, teamwork and the remarkable attention to detail required to transform simple ingredients into edible works of art. Best of all, you will sit down afterwards and enjoy the delicious sushi you have created for lunch!
Your cultural journey continues in Roppongi Hills with a visit to the Mori Art Museum, one of Tokyo’s leading centres for contemporary art. Located high above the city, the museum presents innovative exhibitions by Japanese and international artists, often exploring modern society, technology, identity and the future. Creative and thought-provoking installations provide a fascinating insight into the ideas shaping today’s artistic world.
Continue to the magnificent National Art Center, Tokyo, designed by celebrated architect Kisho Kurokawa. Admire its sweeping wave-like glass façade, dramatic interior spaces and spectacular cone-shaped structures. Unlike a traditional museum with a permanent collection, the centre hosts an ever-changing programme of exhibitions, making every visit a fresh and inspiring experience.
Later, experience one of Japan’s greatest engineering achievements as you board the legendary Shinkansen bullet train for your journey to Kyoto. Travelling at speeds of up to 320 kilometres per hour, the train combines remarkable speed, comfort, efficiency and punctuality. Settle into your seat and watch Japan’s cities and countryside rush past your window; on a clear day, you may even catch an unforgettable glimpse of Mount Fuji.
To make the journey easier, your main luggage will be transported separately to the Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, so you will only need to carry a small overnight bag. On arrival in Kyoto, transfer to your hotel and settle in, ready to explore Japan’s ancient imperial capital and its extraordinary temples, gardens and cultural treasures.
