Train To Takayama: Japan (Tokyo, Takayama, Shirakawa-Go, Kyoto, Nara)

Welcome to the best trip you will ever take! Join a group of vivacious women travellers on an unforgettable journey through Japan that will surprise, amaze, delight, and completely captivate you.

This year, we’ve made it even more special. Previously, this was a 10-night journey — but when we experienced Kyoto in autumn, we realised three nights in Kyoto was just not enough. Kyoto in fall feels like a dream painted in crimson and gold, and it deserves to be lingered in. So we’ve added an extra night. Yes, it adds to our cost — but it also adds immeasurably to the experience. Some places are too magical to rush.

Along the way, we’ll also explore the tranquil mountain town of Takayama and the fairytale village of Shirakawa-go — experiences that offer a deep dive into Japan’s rich rural traditions and stunning natural landscapes. From the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo to the cultural heart of Kyoto, from quiet bamboo groves to the iconic view of Mount Fuji, we’ll experience everything that is wacky and wonderful in this small-yet-mighty country: elegant golden temples and the quicksilver speed of bullet trains, the charm of Nara’s deer, and the delicious food in Nishiki Market — we’ll do it all!

Our extraordinary journey begins in the buzzing city of Tokyo, where ancient traditions meet futuristic marvels. From the fashionable streets of Harajuku to the historic Sensō-ji Temple and the serene Imperial Palace, Tokyo will dazzle you at every turn. And for a truly immersive cultural encounter, we’ll participate in a traditional Kintsugi workshop — the beautiful Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, a deeply meaningful experience that celebrates resilience, imperfection, and beauty in restoration.

Next, we head to Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the most scenic spots in Japan to view Mt. Fuji. Here, we’ll climb the steps to the stunning Chureito Pagoda, where an awe-inspiring view of Fuji-san framed by the iconic five-story pagoda awaits – the kind of moment you’ll never forget.

Our adventure continues in Kyoto, a city of timeless beauty — and in autumn, it feels almost unreal. Maple leaves blaze red against temple roofs, lantern-lit streets glow softly in the evening air, and every garden looks like a living painting. Wander through the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, be dazzled by the golden splendour of Kinkaku ji Temple, and immerse yourself in the flavours and colours of Nishiki Food Market, Kyoto’s famous culinary street. With four nights here, we won’t rush. We’ll have time for golden – hour temple visits, unhurried strolls through Gion, and quiet moments to simply absorb the magic.

Nara brings us the perfect, peaceful finale. Feed the gentle deer roaming freely in the park, and slow down amidst temples, museums, and tranquil gardens. It’s a place that feels straight out of a Studio Ghibli movie.

And all throughout, indulge in plenty of only-in-Japan experiences — from slurping spicy ramen and fortune-telling at Shinto shrines, to taking a cultural walk in Gion, sipping beer in a tucked- away bar and admiring elegant kimonos. This is Japan, and it’s going to be unforgettable.

• A unique experience at TeamLab Planets
  A mind-bending, immersive adventure where cutting-edge technology will transport you to realms where you can walk through a digital waterfall or wade in a pool of floating flowers.
  
• A hands-on Kintsugi workshop
  Discover the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi — the beautiful practice of repairing broken pottery with gold lacquer, embracing flaws as part of an object’s history rather than something to hide. In this intimate workshop, you’ll learn the philosophy behind this centuries-old craft and create your own piece to take home. It’s more than an art form — it’s a powerful reminder that what is broken can become even more beautiful.
  
• Chance to spot Geishas on our Gion Nightwalk
  See real-life Geishas dressed in beautiful kimonos glide gracefully along Kyoto’s cobble-stone streets, and learn about the lifestyle and culture of these famous artisan performers.
  
• Enjoy a tea ceremony in Kyoto
  Experience the beauty, art, and ritual of an authentic Japanese tea ceremony — learn the time- honoured traditional steps in the preparation of the tea, and then enjoy a cup yourself along with traditional Japanese sweets.
  
• Hand-feed crackers to deer at Nara Park
  Experience the unique joy of hand-feeding crackers to friendly and ridiculously photogenic Japanese deer in a lovely little park in Nara.
  
• A serene Zen meditation session in Takayama
  Step away from the fast pace of travel and experience a calming Zen meditation session in Takayama, a tranquil mountain town known for its cultural heritage. It’s the perfect way to slow down and connect with Japan’s deep rooted spirituality.
  
• A visit to Shirakawa-go in autumn
  Experience the breathtaking beauty of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its traditional thatched-roof farmhouses. In autumn, the golden and red foliage transforms this fairytale village into an unforgettable spectacle.
  
• Centrally-located, comfortable hotels
  Our hotels are handpicked to let you get the very best out of your trip. They are conveniently located next to must-see sights and the best neighbourhoods
  
• Superior Rooms in all the hotels
  (Standard rooms are tiny in Japan, so we have picked a higher category for extra space and comfort.)
  
• Travel in a small group of 8 – 12 ladies maximum
  Enjoy a more intimate and immersive travel experience with a small, like-minded group — allowing for better bonding, easy movement, and more memorable experiences.

COST

• Twin sharing –
  1. 4,99,900 for the first four spots.
  2. 5,05,000 for the next 5 spots.
  3. 5,10,000 for the last two spots
  
• Single Room Supplement – Rs 65,000 /- per head (includes GST at 5 percent and TCS at 2 percent)

NOTES

• This holiday requires a minimum of 9 pax to proceed.
  
• Meals are not included in the itinerary to ensure everyone has the flexibility to choose dining options that best suit their preferences and tastes (as the Non Vegetarians and Vegetarians will have a hard time eating together and in our included meals we prefer local flavours, as opposed to Indian – the trip lead will discuss options if you are vegetarians at each meal)
  
• Order of visits in all cities may change

PAYMENT PLAN

• Please pay INR 40,000 as booking deposit to reserve your spot.
  
• Balance payment due by 25th July

CANCELLATION POLICY

• Upto 100 days before departure – full refund
  
• Between 100 days and 90 days – booking deposit is non-refundable
  
• Between 90 days and 75 days – 70% refund
  
• Between 75 days and 60 days – 50% refund
  
• Between 60 days and 45 days – 25% refund
  
• Between 45 days and 30 days – 15% refund
  
• No refund thereafter for any cancellation or no-show

FORCE MAJEURE

WeGoBond shall reschedule the Trip or any activity in the event of Force Majeure which includes, any act of God, riot, war, civil unrest, flood, earthquake, strike, picket, pandemic, epidemic, lockdowns, lock-out or other form of industrial action or threatened industrial action or other cause, including any mechanical, electronic, or communications failure. In this event we may only be able to issue a credit note for the trip.

INCLUSIONS

• Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at centrally located, 4 star properties
  
• GST at 5%
  
• TCS at 2%
  
• Transportation in a Hiace Van (for groups upto 8)/ Larger groups in a larger Mini Van)
  (airport transfer is a group transfer. If your flight arrives at a different time, please discuss, we will try and manage transfers for a couple of ladies together. If your flight arrives or departs at a completely different time from group then cost will be additional)
  
• Transport by Bullet Trains as mentioned
  
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
  
• All tours as mentioned in the itinerary.
  
• All admission fees to the museums and sights on tours as mentioned in the itinerary.
  
• Services of an English-speaking guide throughout the trip.
  
• Services of a trip lead from WeGoBond throughout the trip.

EXCLUSIONS

• International flights
  
• Insurance
  
• Tips for Guide and Driver (whilst not the custom a small amount is appreciated)
  
• Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
  
• Any beverages, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, including bottled water (except on table in meals included in the itinerary).
  
• Any personal expenses, such as laundry, phone calls, porterage, etc.
  
• Any items or services not mentioned in Inclusions above.
  
• Any cost arising out of unforeseen circumstances like ill health, land blocks, bad weather, etc.