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InsideJapan has unveiled a new self-guided travel package, the "Hidden Zen" itinerary, which offers an exclusive 14-night journey through some of Japan's most secluded and culturally rich areas. The tour utilizes the newly opened Hokuriku bullet train route, connecting Kanazawa and Tsuruga, to introduce travelers to the western coast's lesser-known locales.
Travelers on the Hidden Zen tour will venture through the scenic landscapes of Toyama, known for its lush rice paddies and traditional rural farms. The itinerary also includes stops in the renowned hot spring towns of Kaga Onsen and visits to the ancient temples scattered throughout Fukui. These destinations provide a deeper insight into the rural and historical aspects of Japan, often overshadowed by its bustling urban centers.
Adding to the authentic experience, the tour features immersive cultural activities. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a home-cooking class and interact with local artisans, gaining firsthand experience of the region's culinary and craft traditions. Brief stays in Tokyo and Kyoto are also part of the itinerary, offering a mix of Japan’s urban culture and historical heritage.
Accommodations on the Hidden Zen tour are carefully curated to enhance the cultural immersion, with travelers staying in eight different types of lodgings. These include independent hotels, a historic Machiya townhouse, traditional temple lodgings, a classic ryokan, and Rakudo-an, a meticulously restored farmhouse now serving as guestrooms.
Priced at $7,839 per person, the Hidden Zen itinerary promises an enriching journey through Japan's hidden gems, tailored for those eager to explore beyond the typical tourist paths.
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Jeff Colhoun
Jeff Colhoun is an acclaimed travel writer, photographer, and filmmaker, whose work is respected both in the United States and internationally.
