May 9-18, 2026
This exclusive journey has been designed especially for Hermann Park Conservancy’s most dedicated supporters. Together, we will explore the artistry, philosophy, and beauty of Japan’s most celebrated gardens and cultural landmarks— and deepen our connection to the Japanese Garden we cherish at home in Hermann Park.
Designed for comfort and connection, the trip balances curated group experiences with personal time for discovery and reflection. Each day reveals the harmony between nature and artistry that defines Japanese garden design and deepens appreciation for its influence on Hermann Park’s own landscape.
Trip highlights include:
- Guided tours of Japan’s most renowned gardens, including Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Rikugien, Kenrokuen, Ryoan-ji, and Katsura Imperial Villa
- Evening with Hiroyuki Tsujii, renowned Japanese garden designer and collaborator on Hermann Park’s Japanese Garden
- Luxury accommodations at premier properties such as the Palace Hotel Tokyo, Hyatt Centric Kanazawa, and The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
- Opportunities for hands-on cultural experiences, including ikebana, origami, and traditional crafts workshops
- Thoughtfully curated itinerary celebrating the artistry, philosophy, and tranquility of Japanese garden design that inspires Hermann Park
Tour Hotels
Palace Hotel Tokyo – 1-1-1 Marunouchi Chiyoda-ku Tokyo 100-0005 Japan. Deluxe King with Balcony.
Hyatt Centric Kanazawa – 1-5-2 Hirooka Kanazawa 920-0031 Japan. Standard Room.
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto – 543 Hokodencho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. Deluxe Room.
Arriving in Tokyo
Guests are responsible for arranging their own airfare.
Haneda Airport (HND) is closest to the city and provides a very easy arrival experience. Narita Airport (NRT) also offers broad international service and many convenient flight options.
Airport transfer to the Palace Hotel Tokyo is included and will be arranged ahead of the trip.
Itinerary Highlights
Please note: The itinerary is subject to change before departure. If changes or substitutions are made, the tour will remain of the highest quality available, as outlined in the description.
Friday, May 8 – Depart the U.S.
Depart the U.S. to Japan no later than Friday, May 8 to arrive in Tokyo on Saturday, May 9.
Saturday, May 9 – Arrival in Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! After completing arrival formalities, you will be met in the arrivals hall and transferred by private vehicle to the Palace Hotel Tokyo, an elegant haven overlooking the Imperial Palace gardens. Settle in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Take time to relax, stroll along the nearby Marunouchi district or visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens, or simply enjoy the serene comfort of your hotel as you adjust to the rhythm of Japan.
Sunday, May 10 – A Formal Welcome to Tokyo
Begin your exploration of Tokyo with a guided visit to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, once the private estate of a feudal lord and now one of the city’s most exquisite landscapes. Continue to the Nezu Museum, where ancient art and contemporary architecture meet in a tranquil setting framed by one of Tokyo’s most beautiful private gardens. Enjoy lunch together at the museum’s café before returning to your hotel. In the evening, gather with fellow travelers for a casual welcome reception to toast the start of your journey.
Monday, May 11 – Tokyo Cultural Highlights
Immerse yourself in Tokyo’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to the Meiji Shrine, a forested sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Enjoy lunch together at one of the cafés near the shrine before continuing to Rikugi-en Garden, an Edo-period masterpiece embodying the ‘Six Principles’ of classical garden design. Return to your hotel by late afternoon; evening at leisure.
Tuesday, May 12 – Tokyo at Leisure
Enjoy a full day to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Optional activities may include private art or architecture tours, culinary experiences, or shopping in Omotesando or Ginza. An optional excursion may be offered to Kairaku-en Garden in nearby Mito. In the evening, gather for a special reception to close our time in Tokyo.
Wednesday, May 13 – Tokyo to Kanazawa
Depart Tokyo by Shinkansen for a scenic journey through Japan’s countryside to the elegant coastal city celebrated for its history and artistry. Upon arrival, walk a short distance to the Hyatt Centric Kanazawa. The afternoon is free to rest or explore. Please plan to join the group for dinner or drinks to celebrate the start of the next destination.
Thursday, May 14 – Kanazawa Orientation
Discover the quiet refinement of Kanazawa, beginning with Kenroku-en, among Japan’s most beautiful gardens. Within the garden, visit the graceful Seisonkaku Villa, known for its delicate architecture and painted interiors. If time allows, continue to Kanazawa Castle. Enjoy lunch together or independently before an afternoon at leisure. Evening at leisure.
Friday, May 15 – Kanazawa to Kyoto
Depart Kanazawa by train and travel south to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Upon arrival, transfer to The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto and enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure to explore nearby temples or the traditional streets of Gion.
Saturday, May 16 – Kyoto Highlights
Begin your day at Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous Zen rock garden, followed by nearby Ninna-ji Temple. After lunch together, enjoy a guided visit to Katsura Imperial Villa, one of Japan’s greatest masterpieces of garden and architectural design. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon; evening at leisure with optional informal drinks at the hotel’s lounge.
Sunday, May 17 – Kyoto & Cultural Exploration
This morning features a special visit to Chion-in Temple, guided by Hiroyuki Tsujii, the distinguished landscape designer leading the restoration of Hermann Park’s Japanese Garden. The afternoon is free for independent exploration or relaxation. In the evening, gather once more for a farewell dinner.
Monday, May 18 – Until We Meet Again…
Continue your travels independently or begin your journey home at your leisure. We hope this experience leaves you inspired by the beauty, culture, and artistry that connect Japan’s gardens to our own in Hermann Park.
Tour Cost
$9,850 per person based on double occupancy (two guests sharing a room)
Single supplement: additional $4,925 (per single traveler occupying their own room)
Deposit & Final Payment
A non-refundable deposit of $2,500 per person is required immediately to secure participation in the tour. The remaining balance is due by February 19, 2026.
Land Package Includes
Hotels: a total of nine (9) nights in luxury accommodations, including:
- Four (4) nights at Palace Hotel Tokyo
- Two (2) nights at Hyatt Centric Kanazawa
- Three (3) nights at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
Meals: a total of 20 meals/receptions, including:
- Nine (9) full breakfasts at hotels
- Six (6) lunches
- Five (5) dinners or receptions
Transportation:
- Airport transfers included.
- Private, air-conditioned motorcoach or sprinter vans for all land transportation as outlined in the itinerary.
- Travel by train from Tokyo to Kanazawa via Shinkansen Green Class. Green Class is a premium, first-class service offering more spacious and comfortable seats.
- Travel by train from Kanazawa via Shinkansen Green Class with a transfer to the JR Limited Express Thunderbird First Class.
Leadership/Guides/Manager:
- Leadership of Hermann Park Conservancy CEO and president Cara Lambright throughout the tour
- Specialist guides at tour locations
- Logistical support from River Oak Travel
Miscellaneous:
- Entrance fees to all sites listed in the itinerary
- Daily bottled water provided in your hotel room and on transport vehicles
- Luggage transfer from Tokyo to Kyoto
Terms and Conditions / General Information
AIRFARE
The tour begins in Tokyo, Japan and ends in Kyoto, Japan. Due to personal preferences, airline arrangements are the responsibility of the traveler. Upon confirmation of the tour, detailed advice about arrival and departure times will be provided. For additional guidance and assistance, travel agents at River Oaks Travel can discuss with you the options available for your airline arrangements.
DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT
A non-refundable deposit of $2,500 per person is required immediately to secure participation in the tour. The remaining balance is due by February 19, 2026.All payments will be made through River Oaks Travel.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
The single occupancy fee of $4,925 covers the cost of private accommodations for one guest.
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
All cancellations must be submitted in writing by email to development@hermannpark.org. Cancellations are effective only upon confirmed receipt by Hermann Park Conservancy. A non-refundable deposit of $2,500 per person is required immediately to secure participation in the tour. Any additional payments may be refundable only if permitted under the final travel contracts. In the event of a cancellation, Hermann Park Conservancy reserves the right to reallocate or apply funds as needed to maintain the minimum group size and program commitments.
We strongly recommend that travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect against unforeseen changes, delays, or cancellations.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is not included in the tour cost, but participants are strongly encouraged to purchase a travel protection plan in conjunction with this tour, including coverage of trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency evacuation/repatriation, medical expenses, lost or damaged baggage, and other expenses and/or losses incurred due to unexpected situations. For additional guidance and assistance, travel agents at River Oaks Travel can discuss with you the options available.
WAIVER
A waiver will be provided to each traveler and must be signed prior to commencement of the tour. Each traveler must agree that they have read the tour itinerary and recognizes and accepts any risks thereof. Each traveler must agree to the terms and conditions listed in the travel program information and to release and hold harmless Hermann Park Conservancy and any of their officers, trustees, agents, licensees, or representatives, from any and all liability for delays, injuries, or death or for the loss of or damage to his/her property occurring during any portion of, or in relations to, the tour.
Reservation Form
To begin your reservation process, please complete the below form. You will be contacted by the Hermann Park Conservancy team to finalize your reservation and provide payment information for the deposit of $2,500 per registrant.
