Welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s capital where tradition and modernity coexist. From historic districts with lantern-lit streets to futuristic neighbourhoods filled with innovation, Tokyo offers a dynamic start to your journey. This evening, join your Travel Guide and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner and your first taste of local Japanese cuisine.

Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main, Tokyo

Dinner

Tokyo is absolutely packed with surprises and today you’ll get a little taste of everything. Kick things off with panoramic views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Observatory, then catch your breath at the lovely Meiji Jingu Shrine, for a bit of peace and quiet. You can wander through the always buzzing Asakusa district, grab some traditional treats along Nakamise Street, and then visit the ancient Sensō-ji Temple.

This afternoon, you can choose your own adventure. Maybe dive into Japan’s incredible art, samurai armour, and fascinating historical exhibits at the Tokyo National Museum, plus you’ll get time for a shopping spree in quirky Ameyoko market and posh Ginza district.

Or if you’re a foodie, you can join a cooking experience where you’ll learn to make takoyaki, the little octopus balls that are common street food in Japan. Then tuck into loads of delicious yakitori, steaming ramen bowls, edamame.

Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main, Tokyo

Breakfast

You may have spotted its snow-capped peak from afar, but today you’ll get closer acquainted with Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest volcano and most iconic landmark. You will be driven up to the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station (weather permitting), where you can catch your breath, literally, as you take in the incredible scenery from 2,300 metres above sea level. Soak up the spectacular views across the Fuji Five Lakes region below and enjoy some free time for lunch in the shadow of this legendary mountain.

The amazing scenery doesn’t stop there. Next, you’ll hop aboard the Komagatake Ropeway for equally stunning views over Lake Ashi, a beautiful crater lake that’s perfect for photography. On the drive back through charming Hakone, you’ll pass through gorgeous mountain landscapes and spot traditional buildings dotting this peaceful retreat town.

Once you’re back at your hotel, the evening is free to do as you wish, you may fancy a quiet night in or want to make the most of your final evening exploring Tokyo’s colourful nightlife, the choice is entirely up to you.

Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main, Tokyo

Breakfast

This morning, jump aboard the famous bullet train and speed towards the enchanting city of Kyoto at an incredible 320 kilometres per hour. Known for its elegant geishas, stunning temples, and charming traditional teahouses, Kyoto will instantly win you over and keep impressing throughout your afternoon sightseeing adventure.

First stop is the iconic Golden Pavilion at Kinkaku-ji, where you’ll be able to view the gold leaf-covered masterpiece that reflects perfectly in its mirror-like pond. Next, you’ll visit the visually striking Heian-jingu Shrine to discover the fascinating history behind this Shinto treasure, plus you’ll see the magnificent 25-metre high torii gate that’s equally spectacular.

From there, you’ll be able to browse beautiful Japanese crafts at a traditional handicraft centre before settling into your hotel. After such an action-packed day, you’ll no doubt have worked up quite an appetite, so dinner tonight will be at a lovely local restaurant where you can sample authentic Kyoto cuisine and reflect on your first day in Japan’s cultural capital.

Kyoto Tower Hotel Annex, Kyoto

Breakfast & Dinner

Wake up to a completely free day in beautiful Kyoto, where you’ll have excellent opportunities to explore this remarkable city at your own pace. You might choose to start your morning surrounded by tranquil greenery at the elegant Ginkaku-ji shrine, or perhaps head to the atmospheric Gion district where you may catch a glimpse of a geisha on her way to an event.

Food enthusiasts will find Kyoto particularly rewarding, as it’s renowned as an exceptional culinary destination. Here you can savour fresh sushi, steaming bowls of authentic ramen, or delicious matcha ice cream. The colourful Nishiki Market offers an excellent introduction to local specialities.

In the morning, you may wish to consider an optional excursion to nearby Nara. This historic city is celebrated for the traditional art of bokusho (ink making), where you’ll observe skilled artisans creating these beautiful works and have the opportunity to try the technique yourself. The tour continues to the impressive Todaiji Temple and Nara Park, home to hundreds of friendly free-roaming deer that have become the area’s beloved ambassadors.

Alternatively, you could join an optional visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. This instantly recognisable site features thousands of bright vermillion torii gates that create a stunning tunnel winding upwards through dense woodland to the mountaintop shrine, offering exceptional photographic opportunities throughout your ascent.

Kyoto Tower Hotel Annex, Kyoto

Breakfast

Departing Kyoto this morning, your first destination will be Kurashiki, where you’ll join a knowledgeable local guide for a comprehensive sightseeing tour of the historic Bikan Quarter. This beautifully preserved area features distinctive black and white warehouses that have been thoughtfully converted into contemporary museums, alongside traditional wooden houses and charming winding lanes that create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the district’s rich trading heritage before you continue onwards to Hiroshima.

Hiroshima is a city that requires little introduction, a place where themes of peace and hope resonate deeply throughout. Devastated on 6th August 1945 by the world’s first atomic bomb attack, Hiroshima has respectfully preserved the memory of its tragic past whilst embracing the future with remarkable optimism and resilience.

Today, you’ll discover that Hiroshima has evolved into a thriving cosmopolitan city with much to offer, from its moving memorials and beautiful parks to its renowned local cuisine. The city’s transformation serves as a powerful testament to human perseverance and the enduring hope for lasting peace.

Oriental Hotel Hiroshima / Hiroshima Tokyu Rei or similar

Breakfast & Dinner

Today’s Hiroshima sightseeing tour begins with a scenic ferry journey across the beautiful Seto Inland Sea to the island of Miyajima. Recognised as one of Japan’s most picturesque locations, this sacred island is home to the magnificent 12th-century Itsukushima Shrine and its famous vermillion torii gate, which creates the striking illusion of floating above the water at high tide.

Returning to Hiroshima, you’ll visit the peaceful, tree-lined Peace Memorial Park. This contemplative space features numerous memorials and quiet areas designed for reflection. You’ll visit the cenotaph that respectfully displays the names of all those who perished in the tragedy, before continuing to the deeply moving Memorial Museum. Here, poignant exhibits including damaged clothing, a melted lunchbox, and a watch permanently stopped at 8:15am provide a sobering reminder of the devastating events that forever changed the course of history.

Your tour concludes at the UNESCO-listed Atomic Bomb Dome (Peace Memorial), remarkably the only building in the immediate area to survive the bombing and now standing as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance.

This afternoon, you may wish to enhance your understanding of the city by joining the optional ‘Secrets of Hiroshima’ Choice Experience, which offers additional insights into both the city’s tragic past and its inspiring recovery.

Oriental Hotel Hiroshima/Hiroshima Tokyu Rei or similar

Breakfast

Departing Hiroshima this morning, you’ll travel to Himeji, a city renowned for its enchanting 400-year-old castle. After enjoying some free time for lunch and independent exploration of the city, you’ll meet with a knowledgeable local guide this afternoon for a visit to this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.

Known as the White Heron Castle due to its elegant white exterior and graceful architecture, Himeji Castle is widely regarded as Japan’s most spectacular castle complex. As you admire its impressive scale, exquisite beauty, and meticulously maintained gardens, you’ll quickly understand why it has earned such acclaim. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the castle’s rich history and architectural significance, helping you appreciate the remarkable craftsmanship that has preserved this masterpiece for over four centuries.

Following your castle visit, you’ll proceed to your hotel where the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Whether you choose to explore the local area, sample regional cuisine, or simply relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries, the choice is entirely yours.

Hotel Nikko Himeji

Breakfast, Dinner

On this final full day of your Japan tour, you may wish to begin with a visit to a traditional sake brewery, led by your knowledgeable guide. Created using quality rice, pristine water, koji mould, and yeast, sake is Japan’s quintessential beverage that perfectly complements the nation’s cuisine. You’ll learn about its fascinating history and intricate brewing process before continuing to the final destination of your Japanese adventure: Osaka.

With an afternoon free for independent exploration, you can discover Osaka’s neon-lit metropolis at your own pace, or take advantage of an optional experience to the Umeda Sky Building and Osaka Castle. At the impressive 170-metre-tall Umeda Sky Building, you can enjoy panoramic city views from the remarkable Floating Garden Observatory. Your visit continues to the striking Osaka Castle, where you can explore its extensive collection of traditional paintings, authentic samurai costumes, and fascinating historical artifacts housed within its walls.

To conclude your journey in memorable style, this evening offers the opportunity to join a culinary-focused experience in Namba, Osaka’s premier dining and entertainment district. This final feast showcases the very best of local specialties, providing the perfect finale to your comprehensive Japanese Tour.

Hankyu Respire, Osaka

Breakfast

After an unforgettable tour through Japan, today is time to say farewell. Depart with lasting memories and a deep appreciation of the country’s warm hospitality. Say sayonara to your fellow travellers as your tour comes to an end and you continue your journey.

Breakfast