Nisga'a Band to Japan!

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Friday May 15: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Saturday May 16: Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo, the bustling capital city of Japan, where you meet your full-time Encore Tour Manager. Transfer to your hotel in the city for check in and dinner, then settle in for a good night's sleep. (D)

Day 3, Sunday May 17: Tokyo

Japan’s capital is a densely packed visual feast, with lots to see and do. We’ll start with a guided sightseeing tour with a local expert. See the Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace Plaza. Have time to explore the trendy Harajuku neighborhood before rehearsing for today's debut concert performance, which will take place at an outdoor venue today. (B,D)

Day 4, Monday May 18: Tokyo

This morning, visit the Tsukiji Outer Market, the city’s largest wholesale fish market, alive with fresh seafood and local specialties. Then experience the rhythm of Japan in a Taiko Lab Workshop, where a Taiko master will teach you to play the powerful nagado-daiko and the smaller shime-daiko drums. Take in breathtaking views from the Tokyo Skytree Tower before visiting the historic Asakusa Kannon Temple. Stroll down Nakamise Street, a lively shopping promenade filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs, offering a true taste of Tokyo’s vibrant culture.. (B,D)

Day 5, Tuesday May 19: Mt Fuji Area

This morning, depart for Mt. Fuji and Hakone National Park Tour and visit Mt.Fuji 5th station. Mt. Fuji is not only an icon of Japan, it is still an active volcano and is the highest point in Japan at 12,389 feet. Take the Mt. Komagatake ropeway, an aerial tram that offers spectacular views, as it takes you to the summit of imposing Mount Komagatake. Conclude your visit with a boat ride on Lake Ashi. (B,D)

Day 6, Wednesday May 20: Kyoto

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and board the bullet train to Kyoto. Visit the celebrated Kiyomizu Temple, marvel at the serene beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and admire the shimmering Golden Pavilion. You will also take part in a traditional tea ceremony, gaining insight into one of Japan’s most cherished customs. (B,D)

Day 7, Thursday May 21: Kyoto

Today's excursion brings you to the Iga-ryu Samurai and Ninja Museum, where you’ll discover the fascinating world of Japan’s legendary warriors. Continue to the picturesque lake city of Otsu, situated along the shores of Lake Biwa. Today you'll have your next concert performance as part of a cultural exchange with a local school group. (B,D)

Day 8, Friday May 22: Osaka

This morning, check out of your hotel and journey to Osaka, stopping en route in Nara, once the imperial capital of Japan and home to some of the country’s most culturally significant attractions. Begin your sightseeing tour with a visit to the magnificent Todaiji Temple, considered one of the world’s oldest and largest wooden structures. Then explore serene Nara Park, noted for its free-roaming deer as well as some of the country’s oldest Buddhist temples, before seeing Kasuga Shrine, famous for its hundreds of lovely bronze lanterns donated by worshippers. Continue to Osaka where you will check into your hotel and have dinner together. (B,D)

Day 9, Saturday May 23: Osaka

This morning enjoy a city sightseeing tour of Osaka, where you will see the Osaka Castle and the Shitenno-ji Temple. This afternoon, prepare for the final concert of the tour, as part of an exchange with a local ensemble, followed by a farewell dinner together this evening to celebrate your successful performance tour in Japan! (B,D)

Day 10, Sunday May 24: Departure

Transfer to the airport for return flight to the United States. (B)