A truly foreign and fascinating land of rich traditions and dizzying modernity is revealed on this well-crafted 13-day small group tour. See Tokyo and Kyoto’s highlights, engage in local life, and head off the beaten path to alluring historic destinations. Begin in amazing Tokyo, where sightseeing includes the Imperial Palace, the famed Ginza district, and Tokyo National Museum. Encounter magnificent Mt. Fuji and cruise on scenic Ashi Lake.  After overnighting in a traditional ryokan inn, travel by express train to lovely Takayama in the Japanese Alps. A traditional tea ceremony and a cooking class offer opportunities to experience Japanese culture firsthand. In culturally rich Kanazawa, visit famed Kenrokuen Garden and a gold leaf museum. Tour Japan’s cultural capital, Kyoto, seeing the beloved Golden Pavilion temple and the Gion geisha district; and explore Nara, Japan’s 8th-century capital. Discover cosmopolitan Hiroshima, reborn from its atomic destruction, on an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension.