Highlights of Japan

Day 2 : Tokyo

Start your day at Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife. Enter through the iconic 12-metre Torii gate and experience the peaceful, forested grounds while observing traditional Shinto rituals of cleansing and prayer. Continue to the Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan’s Emperor since 1868. While most areas are closed to the public, you can enjoy views of the palace grounds and take a walk through the beautiful East Gardens. Next, take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Asakusa, guided by a tea master. This intimate experience offers insight into centuries-old rituals, where you’ll prepare and enjoy matcha in an authentic setting. End the day in the historic Asakusa District, home to Sensoji Temple. Walk through the Kaminarimon Gate, explore Nakamise Street with its traditional shops and local snacks, and soak in the atmosphere of old Tokyo.

Day 3 : Tokyo

Spend today day at leisure. Optional excursions to add on include a half day cycle tour, pedal through Tokyo’s back streets with a local guide, enjoy the lesser trodden parts of the city. After a day of sightseeing you may wish to join an evening walking food tour, eat and live like a local.

Day 4 : Tokyo – Hakone Day Trip

This morning board the coach towards Japan’s iconic natural landmark, Mt Fuji. On a clear day you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder. Glide across the clear waters of Lake Ashi, a stunning crater lake framed by dramatic mountains and Mount Hakone, a volcano that last erupted in 1170 CE. Continue with a scenic ride on the Hakone Ropeway, offering beautiful views of volcanic landscapes, Lake Ashi, and Mt Fuji on a good day. Stop at Owakudani, a volcanic valley formed by ancient eruptions of Mount Hakone with steaming vents and sulphurous hot springs. Stroll through this active geothermal area and sample the region’s famous black eggs, a local specialty said to bring good fortune and longevity. In the evening head back to Tokyo. **Important Note: The itinerary may be adjusted on the day of travel in response to the latest weather conditions to ensure guest safety and comfort.

Day 5 : Kyoto

This morning take the bullet train from Tokyo and speed away to Kyoto for a 3 night stay. Kyoto is nicknamed “the city of ten thousand shrines”. Upon arrival, visit Nishiki Market, a narrow shopping street lined with over 100 shops and restaurants. Next, stroll around Kiyomizu-dera Temple taking in the incredible vistas of the city from the high veranda jutting out form the main hall. Wander around Higashiyama’s busy lanes selling Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, sweets and pickles. Finally, be a guest at a Makio performance show in the historic Gion district before returning to your hotel.

** Important Note: Please note that your luggage will be transferred from Tokyo to Kyoto via a luggage forward service. Your luggage will be available upon arrival in Kyoto.

Day 6 : Kyoto

Discover the charm and tranquillity of Arashiyama by visiting Okochi Mountain Villa, the former estate of famed film star Okochi Denjiro. Walk around the splendid gardens, which have impressive viewpoints of the city below. The villa itself is considered the finest example of Japanese residential architecture in the country. Now it’s time to lose yourself on a peaceful stroll through the bamboo grove. An important material for products and construction. Stop at Tenryuji Temple, one of the top 5 Great Zem temples of Kyoto. Then head south to visit Sanjusagen-do Temple famous for its statues of Kannon. The one thousand life-sez statues of Kannon are made of Japanese cypress and are completely covered in gold-leaf. Standing in rows of 10 and each hand carved, so that no two are alike. Your last stop today is the enchanted Fushimi Inari Shrine with its torii gates and picturesque tunnels.

Day 7 : Kyoto – Free Day

Today is a free day. Optional excursions to add on include a Bento Class a great way to learn about Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura and miso soup.

Day 8 : Hiroshima

This morning, board the Shinkansen train at the Kyoto station, taking one of the fastest trains in Japan (the Nozomi Shinkansen) which reaches speeds of up to 300km. Try your hand at making one of Hiroshima’s most beloved specialties, okonomiyaki. Under the guidance of an experienced okonomiyaki master, prepare your own authentic Japanese savoury pancake while learning about the history and distinctive style that makes Hiroshima’s version so unique. Miyajima Island is the popular name of Itsukushima Island, situated in Hatsukaichi City in southwestern Hiroshima. It is a scenic site in which the mountains, sea, and red shrine buildings blend together in harmony, and the entire island is designated as a historic site. Visit Itsukushima Shrine - a unique shrine that looks as if it is floating in the sea. The main shrine with its red pillars and white walls, along with the symbol of Miyajima, floating torii gate, create a wonderful contrast with the dark green woods and deep blue sea. It was inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1996.

NOTE: Baggage will be transported separately from Kyoto to Osaka. Please arrange a small bag for 1 night in Hiroshima.

Day 9 : Osaka

Travel through Hiroshima aboard its iconic streetcar, Hiroden, to your first stop of the day. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is located at the centre of Hiroshima City. The A-Bomb Dome, also known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, is what remains of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. When the bomb exploded, it was one of the few buildings to remain standing and remains so today. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the A-Bomb Dome, is a tangible link to Hiroshima's unique past. Jump back into the Shinkansen to Osaka, famously known as Japan’s kitchen. Experience the bullet trains like a local and have your bento lunch onboard as you zoom to the next destination. Upon arrival in Osaka, proceed to your accommodation for check-in. This evening, enjoy a dining experience. Known as Japan’s culinary capital, Osaka offers an exceptional food culture, so we recommend arriving with a good appetite to fully enjoy tonight’s dining experience.

Day 10 : Osaka

Get a glimpse of Japan’s traditional and rural side on a full-day tour. Depart from Takayama and travel to Inami by private car. Inami is Japan’s woodcarving capital, home to over 120 workshops and 300 craftsmen, a great destination to witness their traditional crafts. Visit Zuisenji Temple regarded as the birthplace of the Inami woodcarving tradition. Take in the intricately carved decorations before joining the guild and getting hands-on in a woodcarving workshop. Next visit Ainokura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is a quaint village surrounded by a spectacular mountain scenery. Take a stroll through the charming countryside village, capturing the awe-inspiring views along the way, and stop by a folk museum to learn about the iconic architecture style.

Hotel for 2 nights: Hotel Nikko Kanazawa

Day 11 : Depart Osaka

Enjoy your final morning in Osaka before being collected and transferred to the airport for your onward flight.