Mark Lakin is a member of iBestTravel’s Travel Advisory Board and the A-List, a collection of the top travel advisors in the world. Below is an example of the type of itineraries he creates. To work with Mark, you can contact him directly at ml@thelegacyuntold.com.
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Your adventure commences in Tokyo. Depending on your time of arrival, you may opt to go directly to your hotel or embark on a half-day tour of the city with a private guide and driver.
Tokyo, a city defined by its vibrant culture and dynamic lifestyle, is the most populous metropolitan area in the world, offering not only gastronomic delights but also incredible sights. Lose yourself in a labyrinth of Michelin-starred eateries, lively pachinko parlors, quirky museums, and historic architecture. From indulging in delectable watermelon squares to taking a brief train ride to serene mountains, the city stimulates the senses like no other.
Stay: AMAN Tokyo or The Peninsula Tokyo
AMAN Tokyo
Located in Otemachi, AMAN Tokyo exemplifies the blend of modern urban liveliness and tranquil traditional charm characteristic of Japan. The hotel features spacious luxury suites adorned with traditional furnishings, including washi paper sliding doors and deep-soaking bathtubs. With an expansive spa and a private dining room offering breathtaking views of Tokyo’s skyline, AMAN Tokyo ensures an unforgettable stay.
The Peninsula Tokyo
Prime positioning in Marunouchi, opposite the Imperial Palace, makes The Peninsula Tokyo an ideal choice. This luxurious property offers stunning city views, sophisticated amenities, and gourmet dining experiences. Enjoy one of five exquisite suites with sunlit private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and indulgent in-room dining experiences, including a private Japanese tea ceremony in your suite.
Day 2: Tsukiji Tuna, Goma Fire Ritual & Private Tea Ceremony
Begin your second day with a visit to the renowned Tsukiji Market Tuna Auction, followed by a traditional sushi breakfast. Your private guide will then take you to Fukagawa to experience the Goma Fire Ritual, featuring chanting monks and lively drumming. A visit to the Fukagawa-Edo Museum will follow, along with a tour of Akihabara, where you’ll meet a working manga artist for a private lesson, complete with lunch at a Maid Café. End your day with a serene private tea ceremony led by a certified tea master.
Stay: AMAN Tokyo or The Peninsula Tokyo
Day 3: 400-Year-Old Sake & Heritage Silk
Your third day includes a visit to a 400-year-old sake brewery just outside Tokyo, where you’ll delve into traditional sake-making processes alongside a specialist. Savor a traditional farmhouse lunch before touring a generational silk factory. Upon returning to the city, a personal shopper will guide you through the best boutiques in Harajuku and Shibuya. After a top-tier sushi dinner, enjoy a leisurely exploration of Tokyo’s best cocktail bars.
Stay: AMAN Tokyo or The Peninsula Tokyo
Day 4: Samurai Swords & Sumo Tournaments
Your day starts with a private visit to the Sword Museum, hosted by a leading expert on Samurai swords. This experience will be followed by a tour of a renowned sword maker’s studio. After lunch, immerse yourself in a private iaido lesson, dedicated to the art of sword drawing. Later, attend one of only six professional sumo tournaments held each year, enjoying premium box seats for this thrilling spectacle.
Stay: AMAN Tokyo or The Peninsula Tokyo
Day 5: Helicopter Over Mt. Fuji, Transfer to Hakone & Gora Kadan Ryokan
Your private helicopter will take you soaring over Tokyo before circling majestic Mt. Fuji. Land nearby and explore unique museums, beautiful gardens, and stunning scenery, capped off by a private motorboat ride on Lake Ashinoko.
Stay: Gora Kadan Ryokan
Gora Kadan is Japan’s ultimate luxury onsen-ryokan, boasting mesmerizing views and a serene atmosphere. Relax in your private outdoor bath, enjoy a visit to the spa, and savor a traditional Kaiseki banquet served in your room.
Day 6: Transfer to Kyoto; Temples, Drums & Geisha
Your journey continues with a shinkansen transfer to Kyoto, where you’ll stay for four nights at The Ritz-Carlton. Upon arrival, your guide will take you for an exclusive temple visit, then to a private taiko drumming lesson for an exciting afternoon. As the sun sets, spend time with geisha, enjoying an exquisite meal paired with sake.
Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Day 7: Bamboo Forest & Private Cooking Lesson
Start your day early with a tranquil jiurikisha ride through a deep bamboo forest, followed by breakfast prepared by locals. Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji) before the crowds arrive, then journey to the Moss Temple (Saihoji) for a unique experience. Enjoy a flaming ramen lunch at a popular noodle bar, followed by shopping at Kyoto’s finest kimono stores, culminating with a private cooking lesson from a top chef.
Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Day 8: Japanese Ceramics & Miho Museum
Your knowledgeable guide will take you to the Miho Museum in Shiga, followed by visits to working artisans in their studios. Experience traditional pottery-making techniques and end your day with a tasting of several local sake brands.
Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Day 9: Eight UNESCO Heritage Sites & Kasuga Taisha Lanterns
Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha, a breathtaking mountain shrine adorned with thousands of red torii gates. Enjoy a visit to Uji, renowned for its green tea and home to Byodo-In Temple. Then, in Nara, stroll through the grounds of eight UNESCO heritage sites, interact with friendly deer in the park, and experience a private lantern ceremony at Kasuga Taisha, lit exclusively for important guests.
Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
Day 10: Transfer to Okinawa & Ocean Adventures
Fly to Ishigaki, Japan’s southernmost island, and transfer by boat to Taketomi, where you can unwind and participate in various ocean activities, from snorkeling to simply relaxing on the beach for three nights at Hoshinoya Taketomi.
Stay: Hoshinoya Taketomi
Hoshinoya Taketomi offers an exquisite blend of luxury with the island’s traditions, set against a backdrop of clear waters and picturesque beaches.
Day 11: Island Hopping & Indigenous Cats
On your second day in paradise, relax on the beach or join a guide to explore local artisan villages or embark on hiking adventures. You might even glimpse the rare Iriomote Cat or visit a local awamori distillery.
Stay: Hoshinoya Taketomi
Day 12: At Your Leisure & Hoshinoya Taketomi
Enjoy your last full day at leisure; indulge in relaxation or venture out for more exploration.
Stay: Hoshinoya Taketomi
Day 13: Depart Japan
Your unforgettable journey concludes as you take a flight home from Ishigaki.
