This new seven day extension to our Japan Budget Tour takes you even further off the beaten path. Whether you’re spending a peaceful night in a Buddhist temple on a scared mountain or your heart is racing while stand-up white water rafting and hiking through the breathtaking Japanese Alps- we’ve put together an experience you will never forget.

Day 1: Mt. Koya

Depart early from Osaka and travel to the center of Buddhism in Japan, Koyasan. Sleep in a Buddhist temple atop the 800m Mt Koya. Savour a traditional dinner of shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine).

Day 2: Wakayama

Wake up early to watch the monk’s morning prayer before continuing by train further into Wakayama Prefecture. At Kawayu Onsen, hot mineral water percolates right to the earth’s surface through the gravel on the river bed. You can dig your own hot spring bath right in the side of the river!

The highlight of the day will be stand up white water rafting, a throwback to the old days when logging on the river was the local industry.

Day 3: Kanazawa

Continue by train to the historic city of Kanazawa. Explore ancient samurai culture with a walk through the well-preserved Nagamachi Samurai District. You can explore the city on your own or see sights like one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens, try on traditional masks and costumes at the Kanazawa Noh Museum or see a Ninja Temple!

Day 4: Shiragawa

Spend an evening in Ogimachi Village, a UNESCO world heritage site. The farmhouses are structures designed to withstand the harsh winters while providing a place to work and live. You’ll learn how to make traditional buckwheat noodles at a Soba Dojo.

Days 5-6: Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route

Spend 2 days crossing this magnificent mountain sightseeing route. Along the route you’ll see the highest dam in Japan as well as Shomyo Falls; a large waterfall that boasts Japan’s furthest drop of 350 meters. After hiking the surrounding peaks you’ll see mesmerizing views along Japan’s longest one-span ropeway.

If you take the trip in May, you’ll have a chance to see the snow corridor, a span of road carved through walls of snow as high as 19 meters! While in September you will have a chance to see beautiful autumn colors as the foliage high in the mountains begins the change.

Day 7: Tokyo

Travel from the peace of the mountains back to the buzz of Tokyo for your flight home.

View the full 13-day Japan budget tour itinerary or for more information about our trips or to book, email us at info@thedragontrip.com.

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