2024 WISTERIA SAKURA SADO TOUR

Day 1: Tue. Apr 16 –  HONOLULU: Depart Honolulu
Departure Day we will leave Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Japan Airlines to Narita or Haneda International Airport

Day 2: Wed. Apr 17 – ART HOTEL NARITA or SimilarWelcome to Japan! Upon arrival at either Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport, complete the immigration procedures. After checking in at the hotel, take some time to unwind and prepare for the upcoming day. Put your feet up, relax, and get ready for the WISTERIA SAKURA SADO TOUR.

Day 3: Thu. Apr 18 – HOTEL EPINARD NASU (Onsen)
Today, we set our sights on Nasu Highlands, also known as the "Royal Resort," owing to its reputation as a retreat for members of the imperial family.Our first destination leads us to Tsukuba, a Science City that boasts the culmination of Japan's cutting-edge scientific achievements. Here, we'll visit the Tsukuba Space Center, where the "Space Dome" exhibition offers a close encounter with full-scale replicas of artificial satellites, authentic rocket engines, and even a life-sized model of "Kibo," the Japanese Experiment Module.
Continuing our journey, we'll head to Mashiko, renowned for its pottery. With origins dating back to 1853, Mashiko-yaki holds the distinction of being recognized as a traditional craft of Japan.
As the day winds down, we'll retreat to a hotel with natural hot springs, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate in preparation for the adventures that await tomorrow.

Day 4: Fri. Apr 19 – HOTEL LISTEL INAWASHIRO (Onsen)
Today promises a day of experiencing breathtaking landscapes and the lifestyle of samurai. Our first stop will be the majestic To-no-Hetsuri, a site shaped by erosion and weathering, resulting in a stunning landscape. This natural wonder has earned the designation of a National Natural Monument.
Continuing our journey, we'll head to Aizu Bukeyashiki, where you can step into the world of samurai culture and lifestyle. This historical district offers insights into the lives of feudal lords and their retainers, giving you a glimpse of the past.
Afterward, we'll make our way to a resort hotel near Lake Inawashiro, providing a serene environment for relaxation.

Day 5: Sat. Apr 20 – ANA CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL NIIGATA 
Today marks the beginning of our journey to Niigata. Renowned for its rice production, Niigata holds the distinction of having the highest number of sake breweries in the nation, showcasing its identity as both a land of rice and a land of sake.
Departing from the hotel, our first destination will lead us along the riverside, where we can immerse ourselves in the beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom. Following this, we'll venture to the "Senbei Kingdom," where we'll engage in shopping and partake in the experience of making traditional Japanese rice crackers.Continuing our exploration, we'll head to "Niigata Furusato Mura," a facility that gathers all the local souvenirs and specialties from the Niigata region.Returning to the hotel, take the time to relax and prepare for the adventures that await us tomorrow.

Day 6: Sun. Apr 21 – SADO RESORT HOTEL AZUMA (Onsen)
Beginning our delightful two-day journey, we'll delve into the captivating history and cherished traditions of Sado Island.
Our day kicks off with a Jetfoil voyage to Sado Island, setting the stage for an exciting adventure.
Upon arrival, our initial stop is the Sado Historical Legend Museum, an interactive haven that employs life-sized robots and captivating exhibits to recount the island's historical figures and legends.Continuing, we'll explore the Sado Gold Mine. In the 17th century, it was the largest gold-producing site in the world. The gold from Sado is said to have had a significant impact on the global economy during that time. The Sado Gold Mine is currently working towards achieving UNESCO World Heritage status in the year 2024.
As the day winds down, our accommodation awaits—an exquisite onsen resort hotel on Sado Island. If fortunate, we might savor the delectable local treat of red snow crab, a culinary delight.

Day 7: Mon. Apr 22 – SADO RESORT HOTEL AZUMA (Onsen)
The Sado wake-up was a delightful experience. Today, we'll relish a delectable Japanese breakfast before embarking on a unique adventure. Our destination: the southern part of the island, where the enchanting "tarai-bune" wooden tub boat awaits. Dating back over 200 years, this traditional vessel stands as a cherished symbol of the past.
Next, our path leads us to the Akadomari district, home to Hokusetsu Sake Brewery. Engaging with the locals, we'll savor dishes created exclusively from local ingredients. If fortune smiles upon us, we may witness the captivating "oni-daiko" demon drum performance. As the day winds down, we'll depart the hotel and venture to a nearby restaurant for a delightful dinner
After arriving at the hotel, make sure to carve out some time to relax and get ready for the exciting adventures that lie ahead tomorrow. If the timing aligns, you might also have the chance to enjoy a private bath with breathtaking views.

Day 8: Tue. Apr 23 – ANA CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL NIIGATA
Today, let's relish more of Sado Island before concluding in Niigata City. Our morning unfolds at Senkaku Bay, where you can marvel at the sea-sculpted wonders. The waves have crafted unique rock formations, making Senkaku Bay a visual delight.
Next, we'll visit Meoto Iwa, the Married Couple Rocks. These rocks, appearing to be in an affectionate embrace, symbolize marital harmony and love's enduring bond.Continuing our exploration, we'll venture to Toki no Mori Park. Although around 300 crested ibises (Toki) inhabit the wild, their full integration remains a work in progress. To facilitate their conservation, the park replicates their natural habitat within spacious enclosures. This allows us to observe their natural behaviors like flight and nesting up close.
Later, we'll board a jetfoil back to Niigata. Upon reaching the hotel, take time to unwind and prepare for the adventures awaiting tomorrow.

※Notification: Regarding the activities in Sado, we are currently in discussions with the local community. There is a possibility of upgrading and making changes to the final itinerary.

Day 9: Wed. Apr 24  – LOTTE ARAI RESORT (Onsen)
Our morning's first stop is a delightful Strawberry-picking experience, setting the stage for a day of delectable delights. Highly regarded by tour guides who have savored countless strawberry-picking experiences, this farm has earned a reputation for its exceptional strawberries that tantalize the taste buds.After strawberry picking, we'll visit Tsubame Sanjo Local Industry Promotion Center for shopping. Known for metalwork and porcelain, it's a hub of craftsmanship. The center offers a range of items, from cutlery and copperware to durable porcelain and kitchen essentials. Tradition and innovation combine in this collection, with globally popular items..Continuing our journey, we'll make our way to a hotel featuring relaxing hot springs. This serene oasis offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and prepare for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Day 10: Thu. Apr 25 – MYOGI GREEN HOTEL & TERRACE (Onsen) 
Today's itinerary encompasses a remarkable journey across three distinct locales, traversing Niigata, passing through Nagano, and making our way to Gunma.Our initial stop is Obuse, a charming town famous for chestnuts, the legendary Hokusai, and its vibrant flowers. Don't forget to try the mouthwatering chestnut-flavored ice cream.Obuse's streets are delightful, and the Hokusai Museum is a must-visit, featuring the artist's masterpieces. We're happy to guide interested individuals through this enriching experience.
Afterward, we'll head to the Konnyaku Park, offering insights into the production process of this fascinating ingredient. Known as a supporting character in Japanese cuisine, konnyaku appears in dishes like oden and hot pots.
Finally, we'll wrap up the day at a resort facility with a rejuvenating hot spring, providing a relaxing way to unwind before returning to the bustling city center.

Day 11: Fri. Apr 26 – ROYAL PINES HOTEL URAWA
Today promises to be a highlight of our journey, offering an experience that will surely leave a lasting impression. Our morning will be spent at the Ashikaga Flower Park, a breathtaking paradise of light and blooms that will capture your heart. This park is renowned for its 160-year-old wisteria and a splendid array of seasonal flowers.Highlighting the experience are vast wisteria trellises covering 600 tatami mats and an 80-meter-long tunnel of white wisteria. With over 350 wisteria plants in bloom, the view is captivating. In 2014, CNN named this park one of the "10 Dream Destinations Worldwide."Following this enchanting experience, we'll make our way to an Aeon Shopping Mall, where you can indulge in shopping and savor a delightful meal.Later, we'll return to the hotel to prepare for tomorrow's adventures and unwind in relaxation.

Day 12: Sat. Apr 27 – ROYAL PINES HOTEL URAWA
Today marks the final day before your return, offering a splendid opportunity to relish Tokyo to the fullest.
To kick-start the day, we'll make our way to Tsukiji Outer Market, where bustling alleyways offer a delightful shopping experience. Discover a variety of goods and flavors that make this market a true gem.
Following that, we'll head to the Imperial Palace, a symbol of Japan's rich history. Take in the majestic view of the Nijubashi Bridge and the serene surroundings that encapsulate the essence of the city.
Later on, we'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Ameyoko, a bustling shopping district known for its diverse range of products and bustling energy.As the day draws to a close, we'll return to the hotel. Take this time to neatly pack your belongings and make the necessary preparations for your journey tomorrow.

(Lunch and dinner will be at your own expense.)

Day 13: Sun. Apr 28 – TOKYO - HONOLULU
At checkout time the guide will come to tape and tie-up the boxes and take the baggage to the airport.  After check-out we will head to Narita Airport and board flight # to Honolulu. We will arrive at Honolulu in the same morning. 

(Lunch and dinner will be at your own expense.)