In Praise of Shadows a Three Day Journey into Timeless Japan

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Experience Japan beyond the ordinary through craftsmanship, samurai swords, Buddhism, and a luxury ryokan.⌄

   Your exclusive three-day journey begins in the morning with pick-up from your hotel in Tokyo. Designed for travelers who wish to experience Japan beyond the typical tourist attractions, this tour offers an immersive introduction to the country's rich culture, traditions, and heritage. Your experienced licensed English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to Tokyo Station, where you will board the Shinkansen (bullet train) bound for Ueda in Nagano Prefecture. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the comfortable 90-minute journey aboard Japan's world-famous high-speed train as you leave the bustling city behind and head toward the beautiful Japanese countryside. Note: We offer pick-up service from most accommodations located in central Tokyo or within Tokyo’s 23 wards. We may also be able to arrange pick-up from hotels outside Tokyo for an additional fee.

   After a relaxing journey aboard Shinkansen (bullet train), you will arrive in the historic city of Ueda, located in Nagano Prefecture. Nagano is renowned for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant local produce, including fresh fruits and vegetables. The prefecture also gained international recognition as the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. Upon arrival, your professional driver will greet you with a comfortable luxury minivan (vehicle type depends on the size of your group). From there, you will travel approximately 20 minutes to the charming town of Sakaki, where your first cultural experience awaits. Throughout the tour, your experienced licensed English-speaking guide will share fascinating stories and insights into the region's history, traditions, and local way of life. Even while traveling between destinations, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, making the journey itself an enriching part of your experience.

   Meet One of Japan's Most Renowned Swordsmiths and Experience Samurai Sword Forging. Master Kozaemon Yukihira Miyairi, former president of the All Japan Swordsmith Association, inherited his craft from his late father, Yukihira Miyairi, a Living National Treasure of Japan. During this rare and exclusive experience, you will have the opportunity to meet the master in person and enter his private forge — a place often described as sacred, normally closed to the public. There, you will witness the extraordinary process of crafting a samurai sword from raw tamahagane steel entirely by hand. Master Miyairi is often described as a “sculptor of the soul.” As you observe his work, you will realize that he is not simply a renowned artisan, but an artist who breathes spirit and life into steel, preserving the beauty, philosophy, and soul of Japan’s samurai culture.

   Traditional Japanese-style lunch at Konokonbou Shukubou Your first meal on this exclusive tour is shojin cuisine, a traditional Japanese Buddhist vegetarian meal originally served at temples and shukubo (temple lodgings for monks and worshippers). The word shojin literally means devotion, diligence, or spiritual discipline. The philosophy behind shojin cuisine is to live simply and mindfully while avoiding unnecessary harm to living things. For this reason, shojin cuisine is typically prepared without meat or fish. The meal served here is beautifully arranged and individually presented in elegant traditional utensils. You may be surprised by the rich and delicate flavors created entirely from seasonal vegetables and plant-based ingredients. Note: For guests who prefer a non-vegetarian meal, an alternative lunch option is available at another traditional Japanese-style restaurant near the temple.

   Among numerous old Buddhist temple in Japan, the principal image of Zenkoji Temple is regarded as one of the oldest Buddhist statues in Japan, believed to date back to the 7th century. According to tradition, the original statue was considered too sacred to be shown to the public. A replica was therefore created, yet even this replica became revered as holy and was also hidden from public view. The temple’s massive wooden main hall, designated as a National Treasure of Japan, is itself a masterpiece of traditional architecture. As you explore the temple grounds, you will learn how Buddhism has shaped Japanese spirituality, daily life, and cultural values over centuries. Through the intricate statues, historic buildings, and countless artifacts, you will be amazed by the extraordinary craftsmanship, aesthetics, and devotion of the people who created them generations ago.

   Fujii-So is a traditional Japanese-style inn (ryokan) nestled in the peaceful mountains of Takayama Village, Nagano Prefecture. With a history of more than 230 years, this charming ryokan is located within the beautiful Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park, surrounded by unspoiled nature throughout the seasons. With only 15 guest rooms, Fujii-So offers a tranquil and intimate atmosphere. Every room overlooks the spectacular Matsukawa Gorge, renowned for its breathtaking autumn foliage. Guests can relax in the ryokan's natural hot spring baths and experience the warm Japanese hospitality known as omotenashi. The stay is complemented by an elegant kaiseki-style multi-course dinner served in a private dining room, featuring carefully prepared seasonal ingredients. Fujii-So offers an unforgettable blend of traditional Japanese culture, exceptional cuisine, and serene natural beauty.

   Meals: Lunch: Traditional Japanese-style lunch called Shojin-ryori (Japanese-style vegetarian meal) at Konokonbou Shukubou. · Dinner: A beautifully presented kaiseki-style meal is served in the private room, offering an elegant dining experience.

   Overnight: Staying Overnight at an Exclusive Japanese-Style Inn with a Hot Spring Experience and Traditional Japanese Dinner.

2. 2Meet a master bonsai artist, and discover the artistry of traditional washi paper and gold leaf⌄

   Japanese-style fine breakfast At a traditional Japanese hot spring inn, many people enjoy an early morning bath after waking up. Soaking in the natural hot spring water helps you relax, but at the same time, it can feel almost like gentle exercise. Afterward, you will have no problem enjoying a traditional Japanese-style breakfast. This breakfast consists of well-balanced seasonal ingredients, all carefully and beautifully arranged. Start another wonderful day in Japan with this amazing breakfast experience.

   Since Japanese macaques soaking in hot spring baths were featured on the cover of National Geographic, the Snow Monkey Park has become one of Japan's most iconic wildlife destinations. Especially during winter, visitors from around the world come to watch these remarkable monkeys relaxing in steaming hot springs surrounded by snow. Unlike most monkeys, Japanese macaques thrive in the snowy mountains of Nagano. Their unique habit of bathing in natural hot springs to stay warm makes them truly extraordinary. Watching them soak peacefully with almost human-like expressions is both entertaining and unforgettable. The walk to the park is part of the experience, following a tranquil forest trail through towering cedar trees beside a crystal-clear mountain stream. Note: This visit is optional. If you prefer a more leisurely morning at the ryokan, we can omit the Snow Monkey Park so you have additional time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

   Enjoy a Grand Maison–Inspired Dining Experience at "evolve" Enjoy a unique Italian dining experience infused with Japanese sensibilities and seasonal flavors. The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored kura—a traditional Japanese storehouse once owned by prosperous merchants and landowners during the samurai era—creating an atmosphere that blends history, elegance, and contemporary cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared using carefully selected ingredients, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced produce. The result is a refined fusion of Italian culinary techniques and Japan's deep appreciation for seasonality, freshness, and presentation.

   Visit Bonsai Museum Taikan & Meet Bonsai Master Shinji Suzuki This private bonsai museum was established by Shinji Suzuki, one of Japan's most celebrated bonsai masters. He won his first Prime Minister's Award at the remarkably young age of 33—the youngest recipient in history—and went on to receive the prestigious award five times throughout his career. Today, his name and work are recognized by bonsai enthusiasts around the world, and his clientele includes numerous prominent figures and celebrities. As you admire his extraordinary masterpieces, you will also have the rare opportunity to meet Mr. Suzuki in person. He will share his philosophy, artistic vision, and unique aesthetic approach to bonsai. Through his explanations, you will gain a deeper understanding of how he creates an entire "universe" within a single tree and pot, balancing nature, time, and human artistry.

   Create Your Own Gold Leaf Art at Hosendo Hosendo is a traditional artisan workshop founded in the 19th century in Nakano City. It specializes in hyogu, the Japanese art of mounting and restoring hanging scrolls (kakejiku), folding screens (byobu), sliding doors (fusuma), and works of calligraphy and painting. Building on these centuries-old traditions, the current president developed Haku Art, a unique style that combines traditional hyogu techniques with genuine gold or colored silver leaf applied to handmade washi paper beneath a fine silk overlay. Here, you will create your own Haku Art using handmade washi paper and genuine gold leaf. Guided by a skilled artisan, you will learn traditional techniques while designing a unique work that reflects your own creativity. Your finished artwork will become a memorable keepsake of your journey through Japan.

   After a day of exploring the cultural treasures and natural beauty of Nagano, return to the peaceful surroundings of Fujii-So for your second night. Enjoy the opportunity to slow down and fully embrace the ryokan experience, from the soothing natural hot spring to the quiet atmosphere of the mountain setting. A refined kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal local ingredients will be served, offering another memorable taste of Nagano’s culinary traditions. With attentive hospitality and the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, your second stay at Fujii-So provides a deeper appreciation of the Japanese art of relaxation, simplicity, and mindful living.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Staying Overnight at an Exclusive Japanese-Style Inn with a Hot Spring Experience and Traditional Japanese Dinner.

3. 3Sacred Temples & Zen Meditation in Historic Shiodadaira⌄

   Enjoy your final morning at Fujii-So, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the Nagano mountains before concluding your journey. After a restful stay surrounded by nature, savor a traditional Japanese breakfast prepared with seasonal local ingredients. For guests who prefer a lighter option after several days of authentic Japanese cuisine, the ryokan can also prepare an onigiri-style breakfast featuring handmade rice balls and simple seasonal accompaniments. This casual yet comforting meal offers a final taste of Japanese hospitality before departing for your next destination.

   Located in the peaceful Shiodadaira area of Ueda City, known as the “Kamakura of Shinshu,” Ikushimatarushima Shrine is a sacred site deeply connected with the natural landscape and spiritual traditions of Nagano. Dedicated to the land itself as a sacred presence, the shrine reflects the ancient Japanese belief in harmony between nature and humanity. Together with Shinano Kokubunji Temple, which honors Dainichi Nyorai, and Bessho Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring areas, it forms part of the “Sacred Place of the Sun and Earth.” During the summer and winter solstices, sunlight passes directly through the shrine’s torii gate, symbolizing the connection between the sun and the sacred landscape. This tradition contributed to Shiodadaira’s designation as a Japan Heritage site in 2020. A visit to Ikushimatarushima Shrine offers a rare opportunity to experience the enduring harmony of nature, history, and Japanese spirituality.

   Located in the peaceful hills of Ikuta in Ueda City, Le Potager is a charming garden restaurant that celebrates the natural flavors of locally grown ingredients. The name “Potager” means “kitchen garden” in French, reflecting the restaurant’s philosophy of creating dishes centered around fresh vegetables harvested from its own garden. Set on a hilltop surrounded by nature, the restaurant offers beautiful panoramic views of the Ueda countryside, including the distant mountains of Mt. Asama and Mt. Eboshi. The tranquil setting provides the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a relaxing meal while appreciating the beauty of Nagano’s landscape. Using seasonal vegetables and carefully selected local ingredients, Le Potager creates thoughtful and beautifully presented dishes that highlight the richness of the region. This memorable lunch experience offers a wonderful final taste of rural Japan, where nature, local produce, and culinary creativity come together in harmony.

   Founded during the Kamakura period, Anraku-ji Temple is the oldest Zen temple of the Soto school in Nagano Prefecture and one of the region’s most important historical sites. The temple is best known for its magnificent National Treasure—the only surviving wooden octagonal three-story pagoda in Japan, an exceptional example of ancient Buddhist architecture. During your visit, you will have the rare opportunity to experience Zen meditation (zazen) under the guidance of the temple’s abbot. Through the practice of quiet contemplation and mindful breathing, you will gain a deeper understanding of Zen philosophy and the Japanese appreciation for stillness, simplicity, and inner harmony. Set within a peaceful mountain environment, Anraku-ji offers a meaningful moment to step away from the pace of modern life and connect with one of Japan’s most profound spiritual traditions.

   Located in the historic hot spring town of Bessho Onsen, Kitamuki Kannon Temple is a unique Buddhist temple whose main hall faces north, an unusual orientation rarely seen in Japan. The temple is believed to bestow blessings for happiness and fulfillment in this present life. In Japanese Buddhist tradition, it is said that a complete pilgrimage includes visiting both Kitamuki Kannon and Zenko-ji Temple in Nagano City. While Kitamuki Kannon faces north and offers blessings for the present world, Zenko-ji faces south and is associated with blessings for the afterlife. Together, these two sacred sites are known as a “two-temple pilgrimage,” believed to bring harmony and completeness to one’s prayers. A visit to Kitamuki Kannon offers a meaningful opportunity to experience Japan’s deep spiritual traditions while strolling through the charming atmosphere of Bessho Onsen, one of Nagano’s oldest hot spring towns.

   After three unforgettable days exploring Japan’s timeless traditions, craftsmanship, and spiritual heritage, your Deep Dive Journey: In Praise of Shadows comes to a close. Throughout this exclusive retreat, you have experienced a side of Japan rarely seen by visitors, where beauty is found in subtlety, silence, and tradition. From the fiery artistry of Japanese sword forging and the delicate brilliance of gold leaf to the living art of bonsai, the tranquility of Zen meditation, and sacred landscapes shaped by centuries of devotion, each encounter has revealed a different expression of Japanese aesthetics. Together, these experiences offer a deeper appreciation of harmony, simplicity, impermanence, and the quiet beauty celebrated in In Praise of Shadows. After your final visit, your guide will accompany you to Ueda to board the Shinkansen back to Tokyo. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel, concluding your immersive journey into Japan’s hidden cultural treasures.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch