Experiencing Japan with Dr. Gerald Blumenthal, Ph.D: Oct/Nov 2026
- Travel Planners 4 U
- Jul 1, 2022
- 5 min read
Join global entrepreneur and author, Dr. Gerald Blumenthal, Ph.D on this amazing adventure in Japan.
This all-inclusive 10-day journey offers you the experience of the magic of Japan where ancient traditions meet modern-day. From timeless temples to the electric energy of the neon-lit streets of Tokyo. Find serenity among bamboo forests and historic shrines in Kyoto, and stand in awe of the iconic Mount Fuji. Japan offers unforgettable moments at every turn.
AT A GLANCE
STATUS
Registration is open. CLICK HERE to jump to the registration section.
DATES
Departing: October 25, 2026
Returning: November 3, 2026
PRICING (per person)
Trip cost is based on double room occupancy (two people per room): $6,270
A single room is available at a supplemental cost of $1,080
Your trip must be paid in full NO LATER THAN Tuesday, August 11, 2026.
Each traveler must have:
Current US Passport valid until at least six months AFTER the return date;
Travel insurance.
Your tour includes:
Round-trip international air transportation from Newark (EWR);
First-class 4-Star hotels;
Land transportation via private motor coach;
Bullet train;
Professional tour guide and driver;
Entrance fees to all activities listed on the itinerary;
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily;
Luggage handling at hotels.
Your tour does NOT include:
Travel insurance (required);
Domestic flights;
Gratuities for guide and driver (Recommended $100 per registrant. Please give in cash to your tour host at the beginning of your journey.)
*See Terms and Conditions for details.
ITINERARY
Itinerary is subject to change
Day 1: Sunday, October 25, 2026 (TRAVEL DAY)
International Flight – Newark to Tokyo
Day 2: Monday, October 26, 2026
Upon arrival at Tokyo Narita (NRT), our English-speaking guide will welcome the group
and accompany us into the city. Tokyo immediately reveals its unique personality where tradition and innovation coexist effortlessly.
We begin with a peaceful introduction to Japan’s spiritual world at Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and surrounded by a tranquil forest. We continue to Omotesando Avenue, Tokyo’s elegant boulevard of modern design and refined cafés. If time permits, we enjoy the energy of Shibuya Crossing, then continue to Ginza, known for its sophistication, galleries, and luxury storefronts.
Meals: Dinner at a local restaurant (depending on arrival timing).
Overnight: Tokyo
Day 3: Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Today we explore Tokyo’s most iconic contrasts. We start in Odaiba, the futuristic waterfront district in Tokyo Bay. From here we enjoy a scenic cruise/ferry along the Sumida River, offering memorable city views.
Arriving in Asakusa, Tokyo’s historic heart, we pass through Kaminarimon (“Thunder Gate”) and stroll Nakamise-dori, a lively street filled with traditional crafts and classic snacks, leading to Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist sanctuary.
In the afternoon we head to Shinjuku, one of the world’s busiest districts. We ascend to an observation point for panoramic views (weather permitting), then experience the vibrant streets illuminated by Tokyo’s famous neon energy.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Tokyo
Day 4: Wednesday, October 28, 2026
We depart Tokyo toward the scenic Hakone area, renowned for mountain beauty, hot
springs, and views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting). We visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where modern sculpture blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
We continue with a ride to Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic zone with steaming vents and dramatic terrain—an unforgettable encounter with Japan’s raw natural power. We then journey onward toward the Japanese Alps region for a change of scenery and atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Matsumoto
Day 5: Thursday, October 29, 2026
A day of mountain roads, preserved heritage towns, and UNESCO beauty. We travel to
Takayama, known for its beautifully preserved Old Town, merchant houses, small shops, and traditional sake breweries.
We then continue to Shirakawa-go (UNESCO World Heritage Site), famous for gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall, one of Japan’s most photogenic rural landscapes. We arrive in Kanazawa in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Kanazawa
Day 6: Friday, October 30, 2026
We begin the day with Kenrokuen Garden, considered among Japan’s finest—an
exquisite expression of balance, nature, and design across every season.
We then enjoy a traditional silk-dyeing workshop, a hands-on cultural experience that connects us to the region’s artisanal heritage.
In the afternoon, we travel by train to Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and a living treasury of Japanese culture. In the evening, we are welcomed for a home-hosted dinner with a local Kyoto family, offering a warm, personal connection beyond the monuments.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Kyoto
Day 7: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Kyoto unfolds with elegance and depth. We visit Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion), one of Japan’s most iconic temples, shimmering over its reflective pond and surrounded by carefully designed gardens.
Later we explore the atmosphere of Kyoto’s traditional quarters, including Gion, known for its historic lanes, wooden tea houses, and refined cultural heritage. Time permitting, we may include additional classic Kyoto scenery to match group pace and timing.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Kyoto
Day 8: Sunday, November 1, 2026
We start with some of Kyoto’s most memorable experiences. We visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famed for its pathway of thousands of vermilion torii gates rising through forested slopes.
We continue to Kiyomizu-dera, an architectural masterpiece with panoramic views across Kyoto’s hillside. (The day’s exact order may be adjusted for timing and crowd flow.)
In the afternoon, we board the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima, a city that has rebuilt itself as a symbol of resilience and peace. We visit the moving Peace Memorial Park and Museum and see the preserved Atomic Bomb Dome.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Hiroshima
Day 9: Monday, November 2, 2026
We travel to Miyajima Island, one of Japan’s most iconic spiritual and scenic destinations. We visit Itsukushima Shrine, famously appearing to float on the water at high tide. Time permitting, we may ascend toward Mount Misen for breathtaking views across the Seto Inland Sea.
In the afternoon we continue to Osaka, Japan’s lively culinary capital. We stop at Osaka Castle (grounds and exterior photo stop; interior visit depends on arrival time and group preference), a symbol of Japan’s samurai-era power struggles.
In the evening, we experience Dotonbori, Osaka’s neon heart—street life, entertainment, and unforgettable flavors—followed by a festive farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Osaka
Day 10: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
A smooth final morning designed around an international departure. After breakfast and check-out, we enjoy a short, easy experience near the hotel at the Kuromon Market (quick tasting walk, coffee, and last minute souvenirs)
We then transfer by private coach to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for our return flight.
Meals: Breakfast, light lunch and snacks
HOW TO REGISTER
STEP 1: COMPLETE REGISTRATION FORM
Register for the trip by completing the Traveler Registration Form and paying the non-refundable registration fee of $300 (plus applicable fees). NOTE: Your paid $300 registration fee is deducted from the total trip cost. For more info, please review our Terms and Conditions.
STEP 2: SUBMIT FINAL PAYMENT
After you complete the Traveler Registration Form and submit your registration fee, full payment for your trip MUST BE RECEIVED by the final payment due date identified above (Tuesday, August 11, 2026).
CREDIT CARD and PAY PAL payments can be made using the event link below. NOTE: Your paid $300 registration fee is deducted from the total trip cost and reflected in the ticket price. Credit card payment totals include the credit card company fees and the payment platform service fee is identified separately at checkout.
To avoid fees, see other payment options available on our Payment Options page.
