Wandio

Arrive at Tokyo Haneda Airport with a private transfer whisking you smoothly into the heart of the city, where your suite at the Aman Tokyo overlooks a sprawling urban tapestry meeting Mount Fuji’s distant silhouette. Begin your afternoon wandering the famed Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest intersection, where waves of humanity pulse rhythmically through neon-lit streets. Capture the dynamic atmosphere while sipping a rare matcha latté from a boutique café, feeling both the pulse of modern Japan and a sense of personal calm amid the organized chaos. Transition into the tranquility of the Nezu Museum in Minami-Aoyama, accessible by a brief 15-minute luxury car ride; here, pristine gardens bloom with azaleas in May, offering a perfect retreat into Japan’s artistic heritage with its exquisite collections of East Asian art. As evening falls, experience an intimate, private matcha tea ceremony at a renowned tea house within the museum grounds, where the delicate ritual connects you deeply with centuries of Japanese culture and philosophy. End the day in Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, exploring bespoke boutiques and savoring Kaiseki cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant like Ginza Kojyu, where seasonal ingredients harmonize with elegant presentation, reflecting the freshness of May’s bounty.

Wake to a serene morning and venture by luxury car to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, a sanctuary in the heart of Tokyo blending historical remnants of Edo Castle with beautifully manicured lawns and seasonal blooms that flourish spectacularly in May. Navigation here is effortless with a guided tour explaining the intricate architecture of the palace walls and the stories of the Tokugawa shogunate, all while breathing in the freshness of spring’s azaleas and wisterias. Following this, take a 10-minute drive to the Hamarikyu Gardens, famed for its seawater pond and traditional teahouse perched on an island, where you can experience freshly brewed sencha tea paired with seasonal wagashi sweets amidst blooming peonies. After recharging in the gardens, journey to a private sushi atelier near Tsukiji Market for an exclusive lesson with a master chef who teaches you to craft delicate nigiri using freshly caught May fish such as snapper and sea bream, promising a feast that delights both taste and skill. Cap your evening aboard a private luxury vessel cruising the gentle waters of the Sumida River, drifting past illuminated landmarks like Tokyo Skytree and the historic Asakusa area, where lantern-lit temples evoke a timeless sense of romance and wonder.

After a seamless 2.5-hour first-class Shinkansen ride from Tokyo Station, settle into the elegant suites of The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, overlooking the Kamogawa River. Begin your afternoon at Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, where the shimmering gold leaf façade reflects hypnotically across the surrounding pond bordered by verdant May foliage. Savor the tranquility here, wandering the gardens that shine especially vibrant in spring’s soft sunlight. Transition next to Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its enigmatic rock garden; here, sit quietly amidst stones and raked gravel contemplating the Zen principles of simplicity and impermanence, a meditative experience heightened by the calm May air. Later, stroll through the historic Gion district on an exclusive guided tour, leading you to a private dinner hosted by a Maiko, where traditional Kaiseki cuisine harmonizes with the gentle art of conversation and cultural storytelling, imprinting an evening of rare intimacy and cultural depth.

A short luxury car ride from your hotel brings you to Arashiyama, where the famous Bamboo Grove invites you to wander through towering stalks that sway gently overhead, filtered sunlight dancing on the path beneath your feet. The sensory experience is deeply calming and feels like stepping into another realm, especially magical in the soft freshness of May. Just beyond, visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a stunning garden designed in the 14th century that looks magnificent in spring verdure and flowering azaleas. Relish a serene moment at the temple’s pond-side garden before embarking on a private traditional boat cruise along the Katsura River, where the lush green banks unfold, framed by the vivid early summer colors and gentle sounds of the water — a truly sublime way to experience Japan’s natural beauty. Return to central Kyoto in the evening for an exquisite Wagyu dining experience at an exclusive restaurant overlooking the city lights, where chef’s artistry elevates local ingredients to pure luxury.

Depart Kyoto in the morning with a comfortable private car to Nara, approximately 45 minutes away. Upon arrival, amble through Nara Park where gentle deer, considered messengers of the gods, freely watch you with curious eyes, evoking a profound connection to Japan’s Shinto traditions, especially resonant under the gentle May sunshine and blooming flowers. Walk to Todai-ji Temple to stand in awe before the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue, Daibutsu, housed within the massive wooden Great Buddha Hall. The sheer scale and serene power of this monument inspire reverence and wonder. After soaking in the temple’s spiritual heart, attend a private shodo (Japanese calligraphy) workshop within a traditional teahouse on the temple grounds, where you will learn to write Japanese characters with brush and ink, guided patiently by a local master. Finish your afternoon exploring the quaint streets of Naramachi, meeting traditional craftspeople who specialize in washi paper and ceramics, offering not just souvenirs but heartfelt stories of local artistry and heritage.

In the morning, embark on a luxury private transfer from Kyoto to Hakone, approximately 3.5 hours through scenic countryside. Upon arrival, board a private boat for an exclusive cruise on Lake Ashi; the calm waters mirror the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji, whose imposing presence is especially clear on crisp May mornings. The stillness and natural beauty inspire a profound sense of peace. Next, refresh your body and soul with a private onsen experience at Gora Kadan, a luxury ryokan renowned for its exquisite blend of traditional architecture and modern comfort, featuring open-air hot spring baths overlooking lush mountain valleys. Spend several rejuvenating hours immersed in the therapeutic waters, accompanied by a seasonal Kaiseki lunch showcasing local delicacies. In the afternoon, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a breathtaking outdoor sculpture park where contemporary art harmoniously interacts with the vivid green landscape, a short 15-minute transfer from Gora Kadan. The museum’s innovative installations and Picasso Pavilion offer artistic inspiration against Hakone’s relaxed alpine backdrop.

Take a luxury car back to Tokyo in the morning (approximately 2 hours), arriving in time for a midday private tour at the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills. Ascend to the observation deck where Tokyo’s sprawling urban panoply unfurls beneath you, Mount Fuji punctuating the horizon on clear May days, before exploring exhibits of cutting-edge contemporary Japanese and international art. The museum’s innovative programs offer insight into Japan’s dynamic art scene that bridges tradition and modernity. Afterward, stroll the chic avenues of Omotesando, Tokyo’s architectural showcase lined with flagship stores of design icons and exclusive boutiques. Here, a personal shopper arranges private showings of bespoke fashion and artisanal crafts, perfect for collecting refined pieces unique to Japan. As twilight deepens, ascend to the rooftop of the Tokyo City View at Roppongi Hills for an elegant farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant such as Sushi Sora, where impeccable Edomae sushi prepared with seasonal May seafood couples with panoramic city lights, inviting reflection on the unforgettable luxury and cultural richness of your journey.