Day 4: Kyoto
Visit Kinkakuji  (Golden Pavilion), a Zen temple in northern Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Formally known as Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and according to his will it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after his death in 1408. Kinkakuji was the inspiration for the similarly named Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), built by Yoshimitsu’s grandson, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, on the other side of the city a few decades later. Also visit Ryoa-ji, to explore the most famous rock garden.

Day 5: Kyoto
In the morning we will head to one of Kyoto’s most impressive sights, the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine. This massive complex consists of five shrines spread across the wooded hills of Inari-San Mountain. After lunch, continue on to one of the most celebrated temples of Japan, Kiyomizu-dera. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills just east of Kyoto, and derives its name from the fall’s pure waters. I

Day 6: Kyoto + Homestay
Start this morning early with one of the most breathtaking Kyoto experiences, wandering through the Arashiyama Bamboo grove. We’ll walk along the paths through towering bamboo stalks that seem to continue endlessly. Make sure to bring your camera today, as this is one of Kyoto’s most photographed locations for good reason. Afternoon Enjoy lunch in the Arashiyama district. In the late afternoon, we will transfer to enjoy an evening of homestay in traditional Japanese homes. Spend the evening and night with a local Japanese family. Participate in meal prep, cultural activities, and exchange dialogue with a Japanese family.

Day 7: Hiroshima, Miyajima

Take the high speed bullet train to Hiroshima. Running at the maximum speed of 320 km/h, Japan’s well-known high speed bullet train, the Shinkansen, will take us to our destination on time, comfortably, and safely. Then it’s time to head out to Miyajima, a small island located just off the coast of Hiroshima, and ranked one of Japan’s three best scenic spots. Wander along the walking trails on the “Island of Gods”, see wild deer and visit the Itsukushima Shrine. Itsukushima Shrine is a Shinto shrine, a UNESCO site and the most famous highlight on the island. Experience the “floating” shrine, and discover the history here reaching back to the 6th century when locals worshiped the island’s highest peak, Mount Misen. After spending the afternoon here, we will return to the mainland by ferry and head back to Hiroshima.

Day 10: Osaka
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and explore the surrounding Peace Memorial Park. Transfer to Osaka. On arrival, settle into our new accommodations. Here we will be staying at a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn that originated in the Edo period (1603–1868). Here we will enjoy a traditional-style Japanese stay with low-to-the-ground cushion chairs for eating breakfast, and a public bath pending availability. Drop off our luggage and head out for our day.

Day 11: Depart Home