Eat Smart in Japan
April 2 - 16, 2025
SOLD OUT
April 2 - 16, 2025
SOLD OUT
Embark on a Tasting Adventure
with Co-Leaders Joan Peterson and Susan Chwae
with Co-Leaders Joan Peterson and Susan Chwae
Looking for a small group to explore a new destination? Our tours are an intimate way to discover the country. And lots of great food! Our tours are set up for people who want to see the sights, be in a small group, and eat.
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto and beyond, experiencing this legendary foodie’s paradise. Savor everything from traditional classics like sushi to street food as eye-popping as the famed Dotonbori, Osaka. Venture further to the cultural and historical city of Takayama for a truly immersive journey. You’ll come away with a knowledge of the culinary traditions and a deep appreciation of the magnitude of history and culture.
Our Culinary and Cultural Tours are perfect for those with special dietary needs. Because we work closely with all of our chefs on our tours, we can easily accommodate dietary choices and restrictions.
Do you have limited mobility? We can make special arrangements to accommodate most limited mobility situations. Please ask when inquiring about our tours.
Our Culinary and Cultural Tours are perfect for those with special dietary needs. Because we work closely with all of our chefs on our tours, we can easily accommodate dietary choices and restrictions.
Do you have limited mobility? We can make special arrangements to accommodate most limited mobility situations. Please ask when inquiring about our tours.
-Wednesday, 02 April 2025 - Arrival in Tokyo
Upon your arrival at the airport, meet our representative depending on destination - they will be holding a sign with your surname. Enjoy a convenient, hassle-free transfer to your accommodation.
Thursday, 03 April 2025 - Tokyo Highlights
Commence your day with a captivating journey through Hamarikyu Garden, an attractive landscape garden along side Tokyo Bay.
Asakusa District is next, an entertainment hub during the Edo era, Asakusa now brims with quaint shops and eateries, alongside the venerable Sensoji Temple. Stroll along Nakamise Street, a centuries-old souvenir haven, indulging in shopping for unique mementos or sampling local delicacies. Following your Asakusa adventure, traverse Tokyo to reach Meiji Shrine. This revered Shinto shrine, dedicated to the former Emperor and his wife, offers serene surroundings steeped in tradition.
Shinjuku Street Food Evening Walking Tour
This evening you will explore the lively Shinjuku area on foot for a fascinating foodie adventure! Beginning either from your hotel or meeting spot pre-determined by your guide, you will join local crowds in this world-famous foodie’s paradise to hunt for iconic and unique local snacks that will fill up your dinner experience. Three stops will be made at various Japanese pubs and eateries where you will sample izakaya food such as Yakitori, Tempura, as well as some other surprising unique local treats that you normally would not encounter. The type of food items sampled during this tour will largely be meat-based with a few vegetable & seafood items.
*Please note that Japanese cuisine frequently uses ingredients with animal products and/or gluten, therefore vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free diets cannot be easily accommodated.
Friday, 04 April, 2025 - Tsukiuji Fish Market and Private Sushi Making Class
Set off on a morning tour to explore the Tsukiji Fish Market. The market has a rich history dating back to the 16th century and attracts visitors from all over the world. Recently, the inner market has been relocated to a new location in Toyosu due to the aging infrastructure of the original market. The Outer Market, the one people could always freely visit, is still located in the original Tsukiji location and is home to many shops and restaurants. Visitors can browse through a variety of seafood, produce, and specialty shops.
After your visit to Tsukiji, you will probably have worked an appetite. Take the coach and will have private Sushi making class with a friendly English speaking instructor. Class duration is 3 hours.
Master the delicate art of authentic Japanese sushi making and learn everything there is to know about dashi, miso, mirin and sake. Impress friends with your ability to prepare traditional rice and toppings, creating a multitude of colourful and delicious sushi, including Rolled Egg, Sushi Rice, Inari Sushi, Tuna Roll, Cucumber Roll, California Roll, Nigiri Sushi and Miso Soup. Take your newly honed skills home to impress family and friends!
Saturday, 05 April 2025 - Highlights of Kamakura
Experience a captivating day trip to Kamakura, Japan's former de facto capital, steeped in rich history from the Kamakura Period (1185 - 1333). Delve into the serene ambiance of this quaint seaside town, adorned with temples, shrines, and captivating sights. With your knowledgeable local guide, explore Kotokuin Temple, housing the awe-inspiring Daibutsu, a colossal bronze Buddha standing at 13.35m tall. Wander through Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the spiritual nucleus of Kamakura, founded centuries ago by the illustrious Minamoto clan. Discover the enchanting Hasedera Temple, renowned for its majestic statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, an exquisite masterpiece embodying divine serenity.
Luggage Transfer Guide will arrange luggage forwarding service for you. Don't forget to prepare a small go to bag for tomorrow before dropping off your luggage in the lobby. Your luggage awaits you in your next hotel.
Sunday, 06 April 2025 - Train to Kyoto
This morning you will take the train to Kyoto. Kyoto is nicknamed 'the city of ten thousand shrines' and is where we'll stay for the next three nights.
NOTE: Private coach transfer between hotel and train stations are included in Tokyo and Kyoto.
In the afternoon after check-in, follow the guide to a tea house venue to partake in a Japanese Tea Ceremony called Sao or Cha-no-yu which has more than 400 years of history. After the tea ceremony, the rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy Kyoto.
Monday, 07 April 2025 - Higashiyama and Gion Tour
Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and start your day with Yasaka Shrine, found 1350 years ago and one of the most famous in Kyoto. Continue to Kodaiji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple founded in 1605. Next, walk through Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka which is one of the most attractive Kyoto's street where traditional shophouses are restored beautifully.
Continue to Gion Hanami Koji Street and enjoy the aroma from classic Japanese restaurants and the view of Ochaya, otherwise known as Japanese tea rooms. You may even happen to see a Geisha or a Maiko (apprentice Geisha) while walking around this historical area. Free time for your own lunch before return back to hotel.
Tuesday 08 Apr 2025 - Kyoto Half Day tour
This morning make your way to the World Heritage Kiyomizu Temple, known as the Pure Water Temple and take in the majestic views from the 13 metre high veranda before exploring the complex. Take a sip from one of the three streams of fresh mountain water, which will grant you fortune in love, studies or elongate your life, but don't drink from all 3 as that's considered greedy!
Next stop is Nishiki Market, also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". Explore this lively retail market that specializes in all things food related and comprises five blocks of narrow shopping streets. Enjoy a taste of Japanese cuisine, ranging from Japanese sweets and pickles to dried seafood and sushi, while trying your best not to get lost!
Wednesday, 09 April 2025 - Kyoto to Hiroshima
Today is an exciting day as you get ready to take the train from Kyoto to the city of Hiroshima, now the largest city in the Chugoku Shikoku region, is also referred to as the "City of Water".
Your luggage will be delivered separately directly to Osaka, please prepare small pack for 2 nights in Hiroshima.
In the afternoon after check-in, A guide will take you to The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which is located at the centre of Hiroshima City. The A-Bomb Dome, also known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, is what remains of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. The building served as a location to promote Hiroshima's industries. When the bomb exploded, it was one of the few buildings to remain standing, and remains so today. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the A-Bomb Dome is a tangible link to Hiroshima's unique past. Get a birds eye view of the Peace Park from the new Orizuru Tower. On a clear day you can see all the way to Miyajima so both world heritage sites in Hiroshima can be viewed from here.
Thursday, 10 April 2025 - Explore Miyajima
Meet your guide at your accommodation this morning and set out to explore mystical Miyajima island, with UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima 'floating' shrine and giant torii gate in the water. Then take the cable car up Mt Misen at the centre of the island for majestic views back over the Seto Inland Sea towards Hiroshima. Hiroshima Street Car passes are also included, so you can also take the tram 30 mins to the Peace Park today with your guide as well.
Friday, 11 April 2025 - Hiroshima to Osaka
Get ready to take the train from Hiroshima to Osaka, which is also known as the Kitchen of Japan. Osaka is famous for its street food, and you are in for a culinary adventure.
You will enjoy the delicious local foods on this walk around the main attractions in Osaka vibrant city. Travel to Shinsekai or New World District where you will try the local specialty of kushikatsu (deep fried skewers). Shinsekai was built in 1903 with half the area based on Paris and the other half based on New York s Coney Island. From Shinsekai travel to the Namba area to take some pictures at Osaka s most famous landmark, the Glico Man neon sign. In this area you will head to Hozenji Yokocho, famous for it s moss covered statue in the centre of the alley where your guide will instruct you on prayer etiquette. Lastly visit Dotonbori to try the best okonomiyaki in town!
Saturday, 12 April 2025 - Osaka Highlights Morning Tour
Your day will start with visiting Osaka castle with a guide by private coach. Osaka castle was built in 1583 as the intended capital of Japan before the capital was moved to Edo (now known as Tokyo). It is now a symbol of Osaka. After Osaka castle, make your way to Umeda Sky Building and go up to the observatory. While enjoying the breathtaking sights, you can also directly feel the wind―which at 170 meters off the ground can get quite strong. Here, not only you can see all of Osaka but also you can see as far away as Awaji Island. The basement of the building houses the Takimi-Koji gourmet street with old fashioned images of Osaka from the 1920s. Continue to stroll around Shitenno-ji Temple in Tennoji-koen park. Even if the concrete reconstructions suggest otherwise, this Buddhist temple is one of the oldest in Japan. It's a pleasant place to explore and to soak up the spiritual vibes of the place before finishing your day.
Sunday, 13 April 2025 - Osaka to Takayama
Embark on a journey by train to Takayama, approx. 3.5 hours. Your luggage will be delivered separately directly to Tokyo please prepare small pack for 2 nights in Takayama.
Located in the mountainous Gifu Prefecture, Takayama is known for its many well-preserved houses, dating back to the Edo period. The town is sometimes referred to as “Small Kyoto” due to the narrow streets and historical architecture. You will arrive in Takayama around 3pm, check-in at your hotel and rest of the day is free at your own leisure.
Monday, 13 April 2025 - Takayama Food and Sake Tour
Discover the unique atmosphere of Takayama and sample a variety of local food and sake, highlighting Takayama’s rich food history and culture.
First you will visit the morning markets of Takayama. Known as Asaichi, there are 2 morning markets held daily in Takayama. These markets sell local crafts, vegetables, and farm products and are always popular with locals, who go from stall to stall. You will begin the day close to the more recent one, started in the early 20th century, and make your way to the older one, originating in the early 1800s, Takayama's markets are a great example of traditional establishments surviving the pressure from large chains and stores. With both markets near the old town, it is a wonderful area to stroll by, sample some of the delicious food, and admire the architecture. One such place where you will stop is Takayama Jinya. This old provincial magistrate office is the only one in Japan with its main building remaining. It was used as a government office for nearly 300 years, until approximately 50 years ago.
Tuesday, 15 April 2025 - Takayama Cultural Delight - Back to Tokyo
This morning take 15 minute bus ride from Takayama Station to The Matsuri no Mori Festival Museum, provides more depth on the Takayama Festival which is held in Spring and Autumn and is known as one the of the three most beautiful festivals in Japan. The continue to Hida Folk Village, Hida no Sato is an open-air museum of close to 30 old farmhouses illustrating the traditional architectural styles of the mountainous regions of Japan. Of particular interest are the thatched and shingled roofs, such as the gasshō-zukuri-styled buildings.
Lunch will be on your own arrangement near Takayama Station. Then take the afternoon train back to Tokyo.
In the evening, enjoy farewell dinner at local restaurant in Tokyo.
Wednesday, 16 April 2025
Departure Transfer Meet our representative at the lobby of your accommodation, pick-up time will be confirmed beforehand.
Upon your arrival at the airport, meet our representative depending on destination - they will be holding a sign with your surname. Enjoy a convenient, hassle-free transfer to your accommodation.
Thursday, 03 April 2025 - Tokyo Highlights
Commence your day with a captivating journey through Hamarikyu Garden, an attractive landscape garden along side Tokyo Bay.
Asakusa District is next, an entertainment hub during the Edo era, Asakusa now brims with quaint shops and eateries, alongside the venerable Sensoji Temple. Stroll along Nakamise Street, a centuries-old souvenir haven, indulging in shopping for unique mementos or sampling local delicacies. Following your Asakusa adventure, traverse Tokyo to reach Meiji Shrine. This revered Shinto shrine, dedicated to the former Emperor and his wife, offers serene surroundings steeped in tradition.
Shinjuku Street Food Evening Walking Tour
This evening you will explore the lively Shinjuku area on foot for a fascinating foodie adventure! Beginning either from your hotel or meeting spot pre-determined by your guide, you will join local crowds in this world-famous foodie’s paradise to hunt for iconic and unique local snacks that will fill up your dinner experience. Three stops will be made at various Japanese pubs and eateries where you will sample izakaya food such as Yakitori, Tempura, as well as some other surprising unique local treats that you normally would not encounter. The type of food items sampled during this tour will largely be meat-based with a few vegetable & seafood items.
*Please note that Japanese cuisine frequently uses ingredients with animal products and/or gluten, therefore vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free diets cannot be easily accommodated.
Friday, 04 April, 2025 - Tsukiuji Fish Market and Private Sushi Making Class
Set off on a morning tour to explore the Tsukiji Fish Market. The market has a rich history dating back to the 16th century and attracts visitors from all over the world. Recently, the inner market has been relocated to a new location in Toyosu due to the aging infrastructure of the original market. The Outer Market, the one people could always freely visit, is still located in the original Tsukiji location and is home to many shops and restaurants. Visitors can browse through a variety of seafood, produce, and specialty shops.
After your visit to Tsukiji, you will probably have worked an appetite. Take the coach and will have private Sushi making class with a friendly English speaking instructor. Class duration is 3 hours.
Master the delicate art of authentic Japanese sushi making and learn everything there is to know about dashi, miso, mirin and sake. Impress friends with your ability to prepare traditional rice and toppings, creating a multitude of colourful and delicious sushi, including Rolled Egg, Sushi Rice, Inari Sushi, Tuna Roll, Cucumber Roll, California Roll, Nigiri Sushi and Miso Soup. Take your newly honed skills home to impress family and friends!
Saturday, 05 April 2025 - Highlights of Kamakura
Experience a captivating day trip to Kamakura, Japan's former de facto capital, steeped in rich history from the Kamakura Period (1185 - 1333). Delve into the serene ambiance of this quaint seaside town, adorned with temples, shrines, and captivating sights. With your knowledgeable local guide, explore Kotokuin Temple, housing the awe-inspiring Daibutsu, a colossal bronze Buddha standing at 13.35m tall. Wander through Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the spiritual nucleus of Kamakura, founded centuries ago by the illustrious Minamoto clan. Discover the enchanting Hasedera Temple, renowned for its majestic statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, an exquisite masterpiece embodying divine serenity.
Luggage Transfer Guide will arrange luggage forwarding service for you. Don't forget to prepare a small go to bag for tomorrow before dropping off your luggage in the lobby. Your luggage awaits you in your next hotel.
Sunday, 06 April 2025 - Train to Kyoto
This morning you will take the train to Kyoto. Kyoto is nicknamed 'the city of ten thousand shrines' and is where we'll stay for the next three nights.
NOTE: Private coach transfer between hotel and train stations are included in Tokyo and Kyoto.
In the afternoon after check-in, follow the guide to a tea house venue to partake in a Japanese Tea Ceremony called Sao or Cha-no-yu which has more than 400 years of history. After the tea ceremony, the rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy Kyoto.
Monday, 07 April 2025 - Higashiyama and Gion Tour
Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and start your day with Yasaka Shrine, found 1350 years ago and one of the most famous in Kyoto. Continue to Kodaiji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple founded in 1605. Next, walk through Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka which is one of the most attractive Kyoto's street where traditional shophouses are restored beautifully.
Continue to Gion Hanami Koji Street and enjoy the aroma from classic Japanese restaurants and the view of Ochaya, otherwise known as Japanese tea rooms. You may even happen to see a Geisha or a Maiko (apprentice Geisha) while walking around this historical area. Free time for your own lunch before return back to hotel.
Tuesday 08 Apr 2025 - Kyoto Half Day tour
This morning make your way to the World Heritage Kiyomizu Temple, known as the Pure Water Temple and take in the majestic views from the 13 metre high veranda before exploring the complex. Take a sip from one of the three streams of fresh mountain water, which will grant you fortune in love, studies or elongate your life, but don't drink from all 3 as that's considered greedy!
Next stop is Nishiki Market, also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". Explore this lively retail market that specializes in all things food related and comprises five blocks of narrow shopping streets. Enjoy a taste of Japanese cuisine, ranging from Japanese sweets and pickles to dried seafood and sushi, while trying your best not to get lost!
Wednesday, 09 April 2025 - Kyoto to Hiroshima
Today is an exciting day as you get ready to take the train from Kyoto to the city of Hiroshima, now the largest city in the Chugoku Shikoku region, is also referred to as the "City of Water".
Your luggage will be delivered separately directly to Osaka, please prepare small pack for 2 nights in Hiroshima.
In the afternoon after check-in, A guide will take you to The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which is located at the centre of Hiroshima City. The A-Bomb Dome, also known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, is what remains of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. The building served as a location to promote Hiroshima's industries. When the bomb exploded, it was one of the few buildings to remain standing, and remains so today. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the A-Bomb Dome is a tangible link to Hiroshima's unique past. Get a birds eye view of the Peace Park from the new Orizuru Tower. On a clear day you can see all the way to Miyajima so both world heritage sites in Hiroshima can be viewed from here.
Thursday, 10 April 2025 - Explore Miyajima
Meet your guide at your accommodation this morning and set out to explore mystical Miyajima island, with UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima 'floating' shrine and giant torii gate in the water. Then take the cable car up Mt Misen at the centre of the island for majestic views back over the Seto Inland Sea towards Hiroshima. Hiroshima Street Car passes are also included, so you can also take the tram 30 mins to the Peace Park today with your guide as well.
Friday, 11 April 2025 - Hiroshima to Osaka
Get ready to take the train from Hiroshima to Osaka, which is also known as the Kitchen of Japan. Osaka is famous for its street food, and you are in for a culinary adventure.
You will enjoy the delicious local foods on this walk around the main attractions in Osaka vibrant city. Travel to Shinsekai or New World District where you will try the local specialty of kushikatsu (deep fried skewers). Shinsekai was built in 1903 with half the area based on Paris and the other half based on New York s Coney Island. From Shinsekai travel to the Namba area to take some pictures at Osaka s most famous landmark, the Glico Man neon sign. In this area you will head to Hozenji Yokocho, famous for it s moss covered statue in the centre of the alley where your guide will instruct you on prayer etiquette. Lastly visit Dotonbori to try the best okonomiyaki in town!
Saturday, 12 April 2025 - Osaka Highlights Morning Tour
Your day will start with visiting Osaka castle with a guide by private coach. Osaka castle was built in 1583 as the intended capital of Japan before the capital was moved to Edo (now known as Tokyo). It is now a symbol of Osaka. After Osaka castle, make your way to Umeda Sky Building and go up to the observatory. While enjoying the breathtaking sights, you can also directly feel the wind―which at 170 meters off the ground can get quite strong. Here, not only you can see all of Osaka but also you can see as far away as Awaji Island. The basement of the building houses the Takimi-Koji gourmet street with old fashioned images of Osaka from the 1920s. Continue to stroll around Shitenno-ji Temple in Tennoji-koen park. Even if the concrete reconstructions suggest otherwise, this Buddhist temple is one of the oldest in Japan. It's a pleasant place to explore and to soak up the spiritual vibes of the place before finishing your day.
Sunday, 13 April 2025 - Osaka to Takayama
Embark on a journey by train to Takayama, approx. 3.5 hours. Your luggage will be delivered separately directly to Tokyo please prepare small pack for 2 nights in Takayama.
Located in the mountainous Gifu Prefecture, Takayama is known for its many well-preserved houses, dating back to the Edo period. The town is sometimes referred to as “Small Kyoto” due to the narrow streets and historical architecture. You will arrive in Takayama around 3pm, check-in at your hotel and rest of the day is free at your own leisure.
Monday, 13 April 2025 - Takayama Food and Sake Tour
Discover the unique atmosphere of Takayama and sample a variety of local food and sake, highlighting Takayama’s rich food history and culture.
First you will visit the morning markets of Takayama. Known as Asaichi, there are 2 morning markets held daily in Takayama. These markets sell local crafts, vegetables, and farm products and are always popular with locals, who go from stall to stall. You will begin the day close to the more recent one, started in the early 20th century, and make your way to the older one, originating in the early 1800s, Takayama's markets are a great example of traditional establishments surviving the pressure from large chains and stores. With both markets near the old town, it is a wonderful area to stroll by, sample some of the delicious food, and admire the architecture. One such place where you will stop is Takayama Jinya. This old provincial magistrate office is the only one in Japan with its main building remaining. It was used as a government office for nearly 300 years, until approximately 50 years ago.
Tuesday, 15 April 2025 - Takayama Cultural Delight - Back to Tokyo
This morning take 15 minute bus ride from Takayama Station to The Matsuri no Mori Festival Museum, provides more depth on the Takayama Festival which is held in Spring and Autumn and is known as one the of the three most beautiful festivals in Japan. The continue to Hida Folk Village, Hida no Sato is an open-air museum of close to 30 old farmhouses illustrating the traditional architectural styles of the mountainous regions of Japan. Of particular interest are the thatched and shingled roofs, such as the gasshō-zukuri-styled buildings.
Lunch will be on your own arrangement near Takayama Station. Then take the afternoon train back to Tokyo.
In the evening, enjoy farewell dinner at local restaurant in Tokyo.
Wednesday, 16 April 2025
Departure Transfer Meet our representative at the lobby of your accommodation, pick-up time will be confirmed beforehand.
FOR A MINIMUM OF 8 PARTICIPANTS, MAXIMUM OF 12 PARTICIPANTS
Price per person sharing room. with minimum 8 participants.
$9,990 - 8 Participants
$9,425 - 9 Participants
$8,950 - 10 Participants
$8,550 - 11 Participants
$8,300 - 12 Participants
Price per person with minimum 8 participants - Single occupancy supplement of $1,850. Price per person sharing room.
$11,840 - 8 Participants
$11,275 - 9 Participants
$10,800 - 10 Participants
$10,400 - 11 Participants
$10,150 - 12 Participants
Final price to be determined by how many participants have signed up by the time we close the tour.
Deposit Required:
Non-refundable deposit* in Double Occupancy - $2,500 per person
Non-refundable deposit* with Single Supplement - $2,975 per person
*Your deposit is refundable until you have been notified that the tour has been filled and your deposits have been sent to our India tour operator, at which point your deposit is non-refundable.
Balance due 75 days prior to departure.
Itinerary and accommodations may change slightly at tour operator discretion.
*Please note that Japanese cuisine frequently uses ingredients with animal products and/or gluten, therefore vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free diets cannot easily be accommodated.
Price per person sharing room. with minimum 8 participants.
$9,990 - 8 Participants
$9,425 - 9 Participants
$8,950 - 10 Participants
$8,550 - 11 Participants
$8,300 - 12 Participants
Price per person with minimum 8 participants - Single occupancy supplement of $1,850. Price per person sharing room.
$11,840 - 8 Participants
$11,275 - 9 Participants
$10,800 - 10 Participants
$10,400 - 11 Participants
$10,150 - 12 Participants
Final price to be determined by how many participants have signed up by the time we close the tour.
Deposit Required:
Non-refundable deposit* in Double Occupancy - $2,500 per person
Non-refundable deposit* with Single Supplement - $2,975 per person
*Your deposit is refundable until you have been notified that the tour has been filled and your deposits have been sent to our India tour operator, at which point your deposit is non-refundable.
Balance due 75 days prior to departure.
Itinerary and accommodations may change slightly at tour operator discretion.
*Please note that Japanese cuisine frequently uses ingredients with animal products and/or gluten, therefore vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free diets cannot easily be accommodated.
Included:
- Accommodations
Accommodations as listed or similar. - Meals
All meals as indicated in program. - Tours
Admission fees, sightseeing costs and licensed tour guides as specified in the itinerary. - Transportation
Transportation including rail/train travel, water travel/ferries, and ground transportation where listed in the itinerary. - Government Taxes
Any local government taxes.
- International Airfare
- Tips and Gratuities
- Drinks not specified
- Visa Fees (if Required
- Travel Insurance
Accommodations and arranged sightseeing are subject to change at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond Eat Smart Culinary Travel's (ESCT) control. Every effort will be made to operate tours as planned, but alterations may occur after the final itinerary has been issued. ESCT also reserves the right to withdraw a tour or any part of it, to make such alterations to the itinerary or the tour inclusions as it deems necessary or desirable, and to pass on to tour members any expenditures or losses caused by delays or events beyond its control. In case of any appreciable variation in the tour price due to these circumstances, ESCT reserves the right to make adjustments to the tour costs as necessary. Specific requests should be advised at time of booking. Please note that every effort will be made to secure special requests, however; they cannot be guaranteed.
Eat Smart Culinary Travel is proud to partner with the following destination management on their Eat Smart Culinary and Cultural Tours to Japan:
Joan Peterson is the author of the compact and portable EAT SMART series of guidebooks designed for travelers and cookbook lovers like herself who want to get to the heart of a country's culture through its cuisine. To date she has written or co-written guides to the cuisines of Brazil, Turkey, Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, Morocco, India, Norway, Portugal, and Peru, and they include, as always, a primer on food history and regional specialties—in addition to authentic recipes, useful phrases for ordering meals and shopping in the bustling local food markets, shopping tips and two extensive bilingual dictionaries to make navigating menu and market a breeze. She has traveled extensively for many years, and has led culinary tours to Turkey, India, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Sicily, Croatia, Norway, Portugal, Peru, and Morocco.
Susan Peterson Chwae began her career in the travel industry in 1997 when she joined the family’s publishing company. Since the inception of the company’s tour business, Susan has worked intimately with destination management companies and tour operators to create luxury culinary and cultural travel experiences. She has been co-leading or leading her own tours since 2005.
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This tour is sold out. Please check back for our 2026 culinary tour schedule.