Arrive in Japan’s vibrant culinary capital, Osaka, and enjoy a private transfer to your luxurious five-star hotel, where refined comfort and panoramic city views set the tone for your journey.

This evening, savour a welcome dinner of delicately crisp tempura and expertly crafted sushi, all served against the glittering backdrop of Osaka’s skyline, a fitting introduction to the flavours and elegance that define Japan.

Imperial Hotel, Osaka, or similar

Dinner

Commence the day with an ascent to the Floating Garden Observatory, crowning the Umeda Sky Building. From this vantage point, enjoy uninterrupted 360-degree views over the city’s blend of contemporary architecture and historic quarters.

Continue with a guided stroll along the vibrant Dotonbori Street, where neon lights and enticing aromas beckon, and sample the city’s signature street food, Takoyaki.

The afternoon is devoted to Osaka Castle, a historic landmark of great national importance. Its striking architecture and landscaped grounds provide insight into the city’s role in Japan’s unification during the 16th century. The visit offers a measured contrast to the bustling energy of the morning.

Imperial Hotel, Osaka, or similar

Breakfast

Travel aboard the renowned Shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed bullet train, passing through a landscape of rural villages, rice fields and snow-capped mountains en route to Hiroshima.

In Hiroshima, you can explore the UNESCO-listed Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a solemn site dedicated to remembrance and reflection.

Your experience will be further enriched by a meeting with a hibakusha, a survivor of the atomic bombing, whose personal testimony offers a poignant perspective on the events of 1945.

Following this encounter, enjoy Hiroshima’s celebrated okonomiyaki before continuing by Shinkansen to Kyoto, Japan’s former Imperial capital.

The Thousands, Kyoto, or similar

Breakfast & Lunch

Today’s exploration of Kyoto begins with a visit to Kinkaku-ji, the famed Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple whose shimmering reflection in the surrounding waters is one of Japan’s most iconic images. This is followed by the serene Gio-ji Temple, a place of moss gardens, bamboo groves and seasonal foliage that invites quiet contemplation.

As evening descends, experience the refinement of Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine, presented in an elegant multi-course format. The meal is accompanied by the artistry of a Maiko, an apprentice geisha, whose performance of music, dance and conversation illuminates a centuries-old cultural tradition.

A gentle stroll through the atmospheric Gion district concludes the day.

The Thousands, Kyoto, or similar

Breakfast & Lunch

This morning, journey by bullet train to Mishima, where luncheon is served with commanding views of the snow-capped Mount Fuji. This majestic peak, long revered in Japanese culture, offers a moment for photography before the afternoon’s activities.

You may choose to visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, dedicated to the master of the Tsujigahana kimono dyeing technique, and stroll through its tranquil gardens. Alternatively, ascend the Kachi-Kachi Ropeway to Mount Tenjo’s summit for sweeping vistas over surrounding lakes and mountains.

The day concludes in Tokyo, the nation’s dynamic capital.

Cerulean Tower, Tokyo, or similar

Breakfast & Lunch

The day begins with an introduction to Tokyo’s cultural treasures at the Tokyo National Museum, home to an extensive collection of Asian art and artefacts. This is followed by a visit to Meiji-jingu Shrine, a sacred Shinto site set amid tranquil, forested grounds.

For the remainder of the day you may choose to participate in a masterclass in sushi-making under the guidance of a Japanese Master Chef, while devotees of style may prefer explore Omotesando’s designer boutiques and Harajuku’s vibrant fashion scene.

The evening presents a choice between a refined shabu-shabu hot pot or a theatrical teppanyaki dining experience.

Cerulean Tower, Tokyo, or similar

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Travel north to Sendai, often referred to as the City of Trees for its verdant boulevards and relaxed atmosphere. Here, enjoy a luncheon of freshly prepared seafood hosted by the proprietor of a local inn, who will share insights into island life.

Following this, embark on a private cruise through Matsushima Bay, gliding past pine-covered islands that have inspired Japanese poetry for centuries.

The day concludes with the grace and ritual of a traditional tea ceremony, a thousand-year-old practice symbolising harmony, respect and tranquillity.

The Westin, Sendai, or similar

Breakfast & Lunch

Today’s journey by bullet train brings you to Neputa Village for a visit to Hirosaki Castle. Here, a specialist “cherry blossom doctor” explains the dedicated care involved in preserving these iconic blooms for future generations.

Continue with an exploration of the Tsugaru-han Neputa Festival’s artistry, including intricate lacquerwork and lantern displays. A private performance of traditional shamisen music, accompanied by the deep resonance of taiko drums, provides a fitting conclusion before transferring to the peaceful Oirase Gorge for the night.

Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, Oirase, or similar

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Discover the natural splendour of Oirase Gorge with a leisurely walk along the Oirase Keiryu stream. Crystal-clear waters, cascading falls and forest-clad slopes create a scene of seasonal beauty, whether in the fresh greens of spring or the fiery tones of autumn.

Following a luncheon of locally sourced ingredients, you may wish to immerse yourself in a forest onsen, allowing the soothing waters to restore mind and body.

The day concludes with a private tasting at a local sake brewery, hosted by the master brewer himself.

Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, Oirase, or similar

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Return to Tokyo for your final full day. In Asakusa, pass beneath the Kaminarimon, the imposing Thunder Gate, to reach Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Stroll along Nakamise Street, a historic marketplace offering an array of traditional crafts and souvenirs.

This evening, gather for a farewell dinner at Hoshinonaruki, where each dish is prepared and presented to reflect the artistry of Japanese cuisine.

Cerulean Tower Hotel, Tokyo, or similar

Breakfast & Dinner

Your luxury journey from Osaka to Tokyo concludes with a private transfer to Narita or Haneda International Airport for your onward journey.

Breakfast