AACI’s Fascinating Japan – In-depth!
November 15 – December 1, 2026
Osaka – Kobe – Hiroshima – Nara – Kyoto – Mount Fuji – Hakone – Tokyo – Nikko
Japan is a country where ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation exist in perfect harmony. From serene temples and timeless rituals to dazzling cityscapes and bullet trains, this extraordinary destination offers a fascinating blend of old and new unlike anywhere else in the world.
This specially curated AACI journey explores the cultural heart of Japan on the island of Honshu, combining iconic landmarks, natural beauty, meaningful historical experiences, and authentic Japanese traditions — all while enjoying a fully kosher experience throughout.
From the vibrant streets of Osaka and Tokyo to the spiritual atmosphere of Kyoto and Miyajima, from the moving memorials of Hiroshima to the breathtaking scenery of Mount Fuji and Hakone, this in-depth program has been designed to showcase the very best of Japan for the first-time visitor and seasoned traveler alike.
Program
Day 01 Arrival (Kansai Airport) and the city of Osaka – Kobe
Arrival at Kansai International Airport, built on an artificial island in Osaka Bay. After arrival procedures and meeting our local guide, we transfer to Kobe for welcome dinner
Check into Kobe Hotel
Day 02 – Kobe – Himeji – Kobe
This morning we travel to Himeji to visit Japan’s most celebrated feudal castle, Himeji Castle, together with the beautiful Kokoen Gardens.
Returning to Kobe, we explore the historic Kitano district, known for its preserved Western-style residences from the Meiji period, including a visit to the traditional Choueke House.
We continue with a scenic ride on the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway, ascending above the city for breathtaking panoramic views.
Dinner at Chabad Kobe and overnight in Kobe.
Day 03 – Kobe – Hiroshima – Miyajima – Kobe
This morning, we will board the Shinkansen, the famous Japanese bullet train, which will ‘fly’ us westward to the city of Hiroshima. From there, we will cross by ferry to the holy island of Miyajima and admire the world-famous floating torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine, standing majestically in the sea.
We then continue to the Peace Park and Peace Museum in Hiroshima, where the tragedy of the atomic bomb is commemorated in a powerful and uniquely Japanese way.
After a moving and meaningful visit, we return by Shinkansen to Kobe for dinner at Chabad and overnight.
Day 04, – Kobe – Kyoto – Golden Pavilion – Arashiyama – Nishiki
After Tefilla and breakfast we depart Kobe and travel to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital.
We begin with a visit to the magnificent Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. We continue to the enchanting Arashiyama district, including Tenryu-ji and the famous Bamboo Forest.
Lunch will be served aboard a traditional Yakatabune boat in Arashiyama. In the afternoon we explore Kyoto’s lively Nishiki Market and surrounding shopping arcades.
Dinner at Chabad Kyoto and overnight in Kyoto.
Day 05 – Kyoto – Hiashiyama area, Tea Ceremony – Shabbat Preparation
After Tefilla and breakfast we immerse ourselves in traditional Kyoto culture.
We explore the charming Higashiyama district, including the historic streets of Sannenzaka and the area surrounding Kiyomizu-dera.
We experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Kodaiji and enjoy a kimono dressing experience, offering a glimpse into Japan’s refined cultural heritage.
We then visit Sanjusangen-do, famous for its thousands of Buddhist statues.
Return to the hotel to prepare for Shabbat. Shabbat dinner and overnight in Kyoto.
Day 06 – Kyoto
We will enjoy Shabbat meals at Chabad and take a walking tour in the vicinity, including visits to the majestic Heian Shrine and the peaceful Nanzenji Temple complex. After Shabbat, there will be an optional visit to the Pontocho area.
Overnight in Kyoto.
Day 07 – Kyoto – Seki – Yaotsu – Tokyo
After Tefilla and breakfast, we will travel to Kyoto Station and board the Shinkansen toward Gifu-Hashima. From there, we continue by coach to the town of Seki, renowned for its tradition of sword-making. We will visit a local sword museum and see a demonstration of this ancient craft.
We continue to Yaotsu, the birthplace of Chiune Sugihara, the sole Japanese Righteous Among the Nations who saved thousands of Jews by issuing life-saving visas during the Holocaust. We will visit his memorial hall and learn his inspiring story.
In the late afternoon, we will board the Shinkansen once again and continue to Tokyo. Dinner at Chabad House and overnight in Tokyo.
Day 08 – Tokyo Highlights
Today we discover some of Tokyo’s most exciting neighborhoods and landmarks. We visit Meiji Shrine and stroll through Yoyogi Park, Omotesando, and the fashionable Harajuku district.
Later we explore Ueno Park, including entrance to the Tokyo National Museum, before continuing to the elegant Ginza dist
Day 09 – Tokyo – Traditional & Moder Japan
After Tefilla and breakfast, we will enjoy a Taiko drumming experience in Aoyama. From there we will continue to Tokyo Tower, the vibrant Tsukiji Outer Market, and the futuristic waterfront district of Odaiba.
In the afternoon we visit the spectacular teamLab Planets TOKYO digital art museum.
This evening we enjoy a memorable Yakatabune dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay accompanied by traditional entertainment.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Day 10 – Tokyo – Kanuma – Nikko Region
After breakfast we depart Tokyo for the Tochigi region. In Kanuma we will participate in traditional Japanese cultural workshops, including soba noodle-making and Kumiko woodcraft.
We will then continue to the beautiful Wakayama Farm bamboo forest and later visit a traditional sake brewery. Dinner and overnight in the Nikko region.
Day 11 – Nikko – Lake Chuzenji – Wagashi Workshop
This morning, we visit the magnificent Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. We continue to Lake Chuzenji and admire the stunning Kegon Waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. Later, we will participate in a traditional Wagashi sweets workshop and return to our hotel for a special Kosher Kaiseki dinner.
Overnight in Nikko region.
Day 12 – Nikko – Tokyo – Shabbat Preparation
After Tefilla and breakfast we will return to Tokyo. En route we enjoy a Japanese calligraphy experience in Kanuma before continuing to Tokyo.
Arrival and Shabbat preparations. Shabbat dinner at Chabad Tokyo and overnight in Tokyo.
Day 13 – Shabbat in Tokyo
We will enjoy Shabbat meals at Chabad and take a walking tour in the area, including Happoen Garden. After Havdalah, we will head to the famous Shibuya district to experience the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing and vibrant nightlife.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Day 14 – Mount Fuji – Hakone – Tokyo
Today we journey to the Mount Fuji and Hakone region.
We begin at the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, showcasing exquisite kimono artistry. We continue to Oishi Park for magnificent views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting), before traveling to Hakone to visit the renowned Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Return to Tokyo for farewell dinner and overnight.
Day 15 – Tokyo – Departure
Before departure, we will visit to the Asakusa district, including Nakamise Street and Kappabashi.
We then transfer to Narita Airport, saying farewell to an incredible journey through Japan and flying safely back home.
| Price without flights: $9,570 per person in a double room for AACI members $12,190 single person in a room |
$80/NIS300 pp addition for non AACI member or join AACI
| FLIGHT DETAILS: Outbound Journey (15–16 Nov)
Return Journey (30 Nov–01 Dec)
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For those meeting us from outside Israel we would be happy to assist with flight arrangements and pre and
post arrival stay as necessary
| Should the security situation result in flight cancellations that prevent travelers from joining the tour, we are committed to working with the local suppliers to provide either a refund or a travel credit. Please understand, however, that because of late-stage commitments, there are instances where a refund may unfortunately no longer be available; in such cases where a refund cannot be secured, the standard cancellation schedule will apply. |
Included in the price for this tour:
-
4 Bullet train journeys- 14 nights in four/five-star hotels
- Kosher full board including provision to make sandwiches for lunch.
- Sightseeing, activities, and attractions as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tips
- Local tour guide, fluent in English and Japanese
- AACI Escort
- Whispers
- Wi-Fi on bus
Multiple cultural specialty workshops- Tips
*Please note the rate of exchange used for this tour is subject to change if there are currency fluctuations
Not included in the price:
- Flights
- Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Any items not mentioned in the above itinerary.
Booking & Deposit Policy:
Should you choose to cancel before the tour is officially confirmed, the $500 deposit will be retained as a credit toward any future AACI Kosher overseas tour or flights with Diesenhaus, valid for two years.Payment Schedule
- $500 deposit due upon booking
- Final Balance Due: August 15, 2026
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be submitted in writing. The cancellation fee is determined by the date the written notice is received:
- From Registration until August 15, 2026: No cancellation fee (except the $500 USD non-refundable deposit).
- From August 16th until October 1, 2026: Cancellation fee of 30% of the total tour cost
- From October 2 until October 24, 2026: Cancellation fee of 70% of the total tour cost
- From October 25, 2026 until Date of Departure: Cancellation fee of 100% (Full Price) of the total tour cost.
Please note; This trip requires (in some cases) strenuous walking , climbing stairs and small hills on uneven or dirt paths. Each participant must be able to do the forementioned independently and be able to keep up a normal walking pace within the group. If you cannot do this or are unsure about your capabilities, you must contact us before registration.
For further details please email: info@aaci.org.il or call 02-5661181 ext. 205