You will board your motor coach for a day of Taipei highlights. A 50-minute drive will take you to the National Palace Museum which houses ancient Chinese artifacts and artwork, with some pieces dating back 5,000 years You will visit this museum, renowned as one of the greatest museums in the world before a short drive to the Martyrs’ Shrine, built in 1969. Here you will see its magnificent architectural style symbolizing the martyrs' brave spirit. It is the replica of the Taihe Imperial Palace in the Forbidden City. The highlight of your visit here is to see the ceremonial changing of the guards. You will then drive to the Grand Hotel for lunch. The Grand Hotel, with its traditional palace style architecture, vermilion pillars, stately archways, and brilliantly tiled roof, is not only a magnificent landmark of Taiwan, but it is an emblem of ancient China.  A 20-minute drive will get you to Lungshan Temple built in 1740. It is the city’s oldest and most famous, as well as one of Taiwan’s finest examples of temple design.  Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is your next stop. Constructed in the memory of the former president, Mr. Chiang Kai Shek, the Memorial is the attraction most visited by foreign tourists. You will have a short shopping stop and the Handicraft Center and then drive to Taipei 101 the world's second tallest building. It is the pride of Taipei’s skyline and is testament to the country’s engineering and technological capabilities. It has the fastest elevator in the world takes only 37 seconds to go up to 89 floors to the observatory deck.

Please note:  Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in conservative clothing with shoulders and knees covered and bring local currency.

You will travel towards the Shuri Castle. This vermilion-colored castle was the seat of power during the 500-year reign of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Destroyed in World War II, the Castle was rebuilt in 1992 and is surrounded by beautiful gates that lead to Seiden or Main Hall.  Following your visit at the Castle, you will be transferred to the local shop where you can have a special coral dyeing experience. There are different shapes of coral's fossil and you will make your own souvenirs with your favorite coral's fossils and colors.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. The coral dyeing process will leave permanent stains on clothing so casual clothing that you will not mind getting permanently stained is recommended, along with sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the South Hall (Nanden) and main hall of Shuri Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shuri Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shuri Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites. The order of the sites viewed or visit may vary.

Unlike other parts of Japan, Okinawa has its own separate history, having been the independent kingdom of Ryukyu during the 15th century. On this half-day excursion, you will explore the city of Naha, the capital and largest city of Okinawa Prefecture, and former capital of the Ryukyu kings. Leaving the port, you will drive to Shuri Castle, the administrative center and residence of the Ryukyu royal family for over 400 years, until Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture in 1879. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle rests on a hill providing outstanding views of Naha and the sea. You will see the lavishly decorated Seiden (Main Hall), and the ornate Shurei Gate. Known as the Gate of Courtesy, it typifies Okinawan architecture and serves as a symbol of modern day Okinawa.  After the castle, you will be escorted to Shikina en Garden, which is known as one of the best Japanese Style Gardens in Okinawa. 

Please note: This tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of walking that is considered strenuous at times and there are uneven surfaces and a significant number of steep steps to negotiate. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and it is not considered suitable for those with mobility concerns. Shoes must be removed during the visit to the south hall (Nanden) and the main hall of Shurijo Castle. While photography is permitted on the grounds of Shurijo Castle, none is permitted inside. The Shurijo Castle has restoration work being done and some areas may not be accessible. Bring local currency for any purchases at the sites, sunscreen and a hat. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary.

Your day will start with Oshimatsumugi Kimono village where you can see local industry and watch the process of making Tsumugi and Kasuri silk-cotton fabrics. You can enjoy a craft complex in a beautiful hillside setting among flowers and many of the plants used in dyeing. Next is to Tanaka Isson Museum and the Amami Park.  Tanaka Isson is a nationally proclaimed artist of Japan who is deeply connected with Amami Island and widely known for his flower and bird paintings. Enjoy his great pieces of artwork as well as the folk museum. You will also have time to stroll around the Amami Park and the observation deck with the great view of the surrounding area.

Please note:  Bring local currency sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and a light jacket and wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in.

Explore Japan's third largest city, Osaka, on this intriguing half-day tour. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel. Following a 30-minute drive from Osaka port, see the impressive landmark, Osaka Castle. One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost one mile square, the castle compound contains 13 structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is 5 stories on the outside and 8 stories on the inside. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles, and bas-reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, tracing the history of the castle from the late 1500's to the present day, and housing Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts. After a guided tour of the castle, proceed to Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Built in the 3rd century, Sumiyoshi enshrine the kami (Shinto gods) who protect travelers, fishermen and sailors at sea.  It displays a unique style of shrine architecture, called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which is free of influence from the Asian mainland. Only two other shrine architecture styles are also considered purely Japanese: Shinmei-zukuri as seen at the Ise Shrines and Taisha-zukuri as seen at Izumo Taisha.  Transfer to the airport.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. Photography and videos are not permitted inside Osaka Castle (3rd & 4th floors). Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina.  From the parking lot to Osaka Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk. Bring local currency, sunscreen and a hat and wear comfortable walking shoes and conservative clothing for the temple.

Explore Japan's third largest city, Osaka, on this intriguing half-day tour. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel. Following a 30-minute drive from Osaka port, see the impressive landmark, Osaka Castle. One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost one mile square, the castle compound contains 13 structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is 5 stories on the outside and 8 stories on the inside. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles, and bas-reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, tracing the history of the castle from the late 1500s to the present day, and housing Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts. After a guided tour of the castle, proceed to Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Built in the 3rd century, Sumiyoshi enshrine the kami (Shinto gods) who protect travelers, fishermen and sailors at sea.  It displays a unique style of shrine architecture, called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which is free of influence from the Asian mainland. Only two other shrine architecture styles are also considered purely Japanese: Shinmei-zukuri as seen at the Ise Shrines and Taisha-zukuri as seen at Izumo Taisha.  Transfer to your Windstar hotel.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. Photography and videos are not permitted inside Osaka Castle (3rd & 4th floors). Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina.  From the parking lot to Osaka Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk. Bring local currency, sunscreen and a hat and wear comfortable walking shoes and conservative clothing for the temple.

Most people who hear Takamatsu and Park will only think about the famous Ritsurin Garden that is renowned all over Japan for its beauty and peacefulness. But there is more than just Ritsurin. Tamamo Park lies on the grounds of the former Takamatsu Castle which was built in the early Edo period, first by the Ikoma clan, then by Matsudaira clan. It is known around Japan for being one of the only three castles which has a moat that is directly connected to the sea, so the water and the fish are actually from the big blue! Here you can see one of these moats, with the sea in the background. Unfortunately, the original Takamatsu Castle does not stand anymore, it was torn down in the chaos of the Meiji restoration but there are still some surviving structures which reflect old times, such as the walls and moats as well as Mizutegomon Gate. You will then head to Ritsurin Garden. This beautiful Japanese Garden was awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. The 185-acre park features 6 ponds, 13 hills, a waterfall, plum, cherry, and pine trees, a bamboo forest, a tea house, and more. This garden is recognized one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. You will be taken to the old tea house called "Kikugetsu-tei" to enjoy Maccha Green Tea.

Please note:  Bring local currency and wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in and bring a light jacket or wear long sleeves. You will be required to take off your shoes at the tea house.

Tour the stunning city of Takamatsu on Shikoku, the smallest of the four main Japanese Islands. Depart from the pier and drive to Seto-Ohashi Bridge. Seto-Ohashi Bridge is a collective term for the 6 bridges with its length of 8 miles. The bridge connects Kojima in Okayama Prefecture on Honshu and Sakaide of Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku. The bridges took 40 years and a tremendous amount of money to build. You will make a stop for taking photos at the parking space, just at the bottom of the bridge. Next, you will transfer to Kinashi Bonsai Town, which is known as the town producing the largest amount of Pine Tree Bonsai (miniature potted trees) in Japan. The tour includes a visit to a Bonsai farm which has hundreds of years’ history making Bonsai Trees. The tour will be followed by a visit to Ritsurin Garden. This beautiful Japanese Garden was awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. The 185-acre park features 6 ponds, 13 hills, a waterfall, plum, cherry, and pine trees, a bamboo forest, a tea house, and more. This garden is recognized as one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan.

Please note:  Bring local currency and wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in and bring a light jacket or wear long sleeves. 

Takamatsu is located in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku, the smallest of the four main Japanese Islands, and this prefecture has been a popular destination for Udon noodles in Japan. It is said that Kobo Daishi Kukai, the founder of a religious sect, from this Sanuki region brought the recipe from China in 806, and this is the reason why Sanuki Udon has been developed in this area.  Your day will start with a visit to Ritsurin Garden. This beautiful Japanese Garden was awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. The 185-acre park features 6 ponds, 13 hills, a waterfall, plum, cherry, and pine trees, a bamboo forest, a tea house, and more. This garden is recognized as one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Next you will head to Nakano Udon School where you can enjoy an Udon-Making Experience. Surely you will enjoy the opportunity to taste Udon noodles you just made by yourself!

Please note: This tour is not recommended to guests on gluten-free diets or who have mobility issues.  During the Udon Making Experience, guests will be asked to step onto the dough while music is playing. Bring local currency and wear shoes and clothes which are easy to walk in and bring a light jacket or wear long sleeves.

Indulge in the Zen way with this visit to Shinshoji Zen Museum and Gardens. Here is the perfect place to learn about the Culture of Zen that streams all throughout its architecture, design, and lifestyle. This temple and its garden was constructed in 1965 to provide a Zen experience. There are several halls and one is a 350 years old building brought over from Shiga Prefecture. Throughout this visit, you will partake in a class experience introducing you to the Zen way. You will also be able to stroll through the Temple and its garden while getting a better understanding of the details in the designs seen throughout the property. Afterwards, drive back to the pier and finish off with a guided walking tour of the picturesque port town of Tomonoura.

Please note: Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring local currency. During Zen meditation class, guests are required to take off shoes and sit on a floor pillow. No chairs will be provided. Zen meditation itself is approximately 20-30 minutes of sitting.

Onomichi, a quaint town that sits on many slopes is in the eastern part of Hiroshima Prefecture. As one of the highlights of Onomichi, the tour will first visit the Jodoji Temple of Shingon Buddhism. This temple has a main hall and a 2-story pagoda that has been designated as one of the National Treasures of Japan. Next, the tour will travel to Senkoji Ropeway to ride up to the Senkoji Park Observatory. From the observatory, you will be able to appreciate the breathtaking view of the small picturesque town of Onomichi.  After seeing Senkoji Temple, you will walk to Neko no Hosomichi or 'Cat Alley.' This area was given its name as there are many Fukuishi Cat stones. These stones were painted as cats by local artist, Shunji Sonoyama and have been popular for cat lovers. Little fortune-stone-cats are found all over the alley to welcome you.

Please note: Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring local currency. This tour is not available for the guests with mobility concerns. The walking trail from Senkoji Park to the bus stop though the Cat Alley is more than ¾ of a mile (1km) at 245 feet (75 meters) elevation. This is a one-way walk so all the guests are required to walk with the guide all the way back to the parking lot. There are more than 500 steps in Senkoji and the Cat Alley area and some parts of the slope may be a sharp descent.

 

The tour will begin with a visit to the 7-story-tall Fukuyama Castle.  The castle suffered extensive damage during World War II, where most of the castle was destroyed. It was rebuilt in 1966 which is the structure that remains today.  Within the museum, you can see artwork from the Fukuyama area as well as modern and contemporary Japanese artwork.  Afterward, the tour will visit Myooin Temple which is designated as a Japanese National Treasure. Myooin Temple was founded by Kobo-Daishi or Kukai and it is said that its main hall was built in 1321. You will also find a 5-storied Pagoda which was built is 1348. Afterwards, drive back to the pier and finish off with a guided walking tour of the picturesque port town of Tomonoura.

Please note: Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring local currency.