Japan

“I’d love to visit Japan! That’s the top of my list of places to visit. And I’d like to work with someone who is familiar with the culture, geography and language and put a special trip with cultural experiences for us.” We often hear people tell us about their strong desire to visit Japan, the Zen-like, quiet country, feel and see the history and meet local people. Unfortunately, planning a trip to Japan without any connections, insider knowledge, or language help leaves most travelers just visiting the popular tourist spots. What if, instead of just visiting, you could have an insider’s experience of Japanese culture? Ippo Travel’s mission is simple. We want to help you step off the beaten path of vacationing, and into the mindful way of life that has been practiced in Japan for centuries. With Ippo, which means first step, you’ll have opportunities to experience meditations with monks, eat traditional Shojin Ryori (temple meal), meditate in a Zen garden, learn traditional art, meet the artisans, and more.

Sample Itinerary:

• Osaka Visit a local Buddhist temple and receive prayer. Explore inside Zen temple
• Kyoto Stroll along the philosopher’s path. Experience zazen meditation and other cultural activities. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Kaga Stay at a old Buddhist monastery near Kaga hot spring. Enjoy meals with local ingredients. Experience fire festival at the monastery. Visit Japanese flak art center.
• Noto Experience the country side of Japan. The peninsula extends into the Sea of Japan. Meet locals in the farming & fishing towns.
• Himeji Stay at an old Buddhist monastery near Himeji Castle, one of Japanese Nat’l Treasurers. This temple is one of the Saigoku pilgrimage stops. Participate in activities with monks.
• Kouchi—Shikoku Experience the countryside of Japan in the stunning shikoku Island known for its 88 temple pilgrimage. Meet locals and experience the local meals, crafts and see sunrise & sunset over the ocean.