Highlights of Japan

Welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport, a join-in transfer service will be available to transport you directly to your hotel. Prepare yourself for an exciting journey filled with captivating experiences and memorable moments.

Explore Tokyo on foot and the underground rail network. Visit serene Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s most famous Shinto shrine with a 12 metre high torii gate at the entrance. Continue to the Imperial Palace to see Nijubashi, a metal bridge built in 1888. Travel by train to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s liveliest districts, and home to some of the city’s best street food, and old izakaya and yakitori restaurants. Learn about the world of sumo as you enjoy a ‘chanko’ sumo lunch with some sumo wrestlers. After lunch, try on a sumo suit and test your skills against a professional. Spend time exploring Asakusa before returning to your hotel.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Lunch

Insider Experiences:

Visit of Meiji Jingu

Walk through the Imperial Palace to see Nijubashi

Excursion to Asakusa

Unique – Immersion in the world of sumo

Take the train from Tokyo to Hakone, best known for its views of the mountains, natural beauty and hot springs. Travel on the ropeway for beautiful views of Lake Ashi and on a clear day, see iconic Mount Fuji. Sail across the waters of Lake Ashi on a pirate ship before returning to your accommodation. Stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese guesthouse and enjoy a delicious dinner, soak in the onsen and sleep on a futon mattress in an immaculate tatami-floored room.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Dinner

Insider Experiences:

Viewpoint from Lake Ashi

Sailboat tour on Lake Ashi

Unique – Stay in a ryokan, traditional Japanese guesthouse

Travel by train from Hakone to the ancient town of Takayama, celebrated for its remarkably preserved old town district and authentic ambiance. Indulge in a delightful bento box lunch during your journey. Explore the historical significance of Takayama Jinya, a former government building that provides fascinating insights into Japan’s rich history. Take a leisurely stroll along Kami Sannomachi Street, admiring the meticulously preserved traditional wooden houses that line the charming streets. Marvel at the intricate festival floats showcased at Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan. Afterward, enjoy some free time to further immerse yourself in the town’s charm before making your way back to the hotel.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Lunch

Insider Experiences:

Visit of Takayama Jinya

Walk down Kami Sannomachi Street

Visit of Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan

Enjoy a day of leisure in Takayama, allowing you the freedom to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace. Consider visiting the renowned Shirakawago, a World Heritage Listed protected village admired for its breath-taking natural beauty and distinctive steeply pitched thatched roofs, ingeniously designed to endure the region’s heavy winter snowfall. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Takayama by discovering the shrines and temples of the Teramachi district. For another captivating experience, take a short journey to Hida-Furukawa, where you can admire the well-preserved buildings that reflect the town’s historical charm. Embrace the day and create your own unique adventure, immersing yourself in the captivating wonders of Takayama.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Travel to Kyoto by train, known as Japan’s cultural capital and revered for its Geisha traditions and royal cuisine. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. In the late afternoon, participate in a walking tour along Ponto-cho and Hanami-koji Lane in the Gion district, renowned for their traditional atmosphere. Keep a lookout as you may have the chance to witness a Geisha walking between appointments.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Insider Experiences:

Walking tour in the Gion district

Spend the day walking and travelling by public transport to discover Kyoto’s highlights. Take the train to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and marvel at the towering stalks of bamboo before continuing to Tenryuji Temple. See Katsura River from Togetsukyo Bridge and take the iconic purple Randen Train to Ryoanji Temple, the site of the most famous rock garden in Japan. Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), an elegant, gilded 14th century building which is one of Japan’s most cherished sites.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Insider Experiences:

Visit of Kyoto

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Take the iconic purple Randen Train to Ryoanji Temple

Visit of the Golden Pavilion

Enjoy a free day in Kyoto, offering you the flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Take the opportunity to embark on various excursions based on your interests. Hop on a train and visit the historic city of Hiroshima, where you can delve into its poignant history and visit the Peace Memorial Park. Alternatively, venture to Osaka to admire the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city’s rich heritage. Another option is to explore Nara and meet the friendly deer population while discovering the ancient temples and shrines of the area. If you prefer, visit Himeji Castle, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive architecture. The choice is yours, allowing you to tailor your day to suit your preferences.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Spend a free day exploring Kyoto at your own pace. In the evening, delight in a special kaiseki farewell dinner, a traditional multi-course meal known for its exquisite presentation and flavors. As you savor the delectable dishes, you’ll be treated to the enchanting presence and performances of a Maiko, an apprentice Geisha, adding an extra layer of elegance and artistry to your dining experience. Treasure this memorable evening as you bid farewell to Kyoto, cherishing the moments of cultural immersion and culinary delight that have defined your journey.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Dinner

Insider Experiences:

Arts & Craft – Maiko or apprentice Geisha performance

It’s time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to Kyoto Station for your onward journey.

Meals included:

Breakfast