17 days
Splendours of Japan

Depart from your preferred airport for a scheduled flight to Tokyo.

Arrive in Japan, where you are met by our Tour Assistant and transferred to Tokyo by Airport Limousine bus or train. 

The rest of the day is at your leisure to adjust to the 9 hours time difference.

Morning city tour of Tokyo visiting Tokyo Tower and Meiji Shrine. Next we drive by the Akasaka Guest House and the National Diet Building, home to the Japanese House of Parliament. Our tour continues to the Imperial Palace East Gardens and a drive and stroll along Ginza high street.

Afternoon is free at leisure, or take an optional afternoon Tokyo city tour. Ask for details at time of booking.

(Includes Lunch)

Today we take a scenic full day guided tour to Mount Fuji by coach. Japanese lunch will be provided in Hakone.

In the afternoon we proceed to the Hakone National Park where we will take a cable car ride to see the magnificent volcanic Hakone mountain range below. We will then take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi. After the tour we return to Tokyo

(Includes Dinner)

This morning take the unassisted transfer to Yudanaka by train via Nagano. Upon arrival at Nagano, our tour assistant will meet you and help you board the correct train to Yudanaka. Upon arrival at Yudanaka go to your Ryokan which has indoor & outdoor Onsen hot spring spa facilities (approx. 8 minutes walk or 2 min by taxi).

For your convenience, we have arranged luggage transfer to take your large luggage directly From Tokyo to Takayama (1 bag per person). Prepare a light carry bag for your stay in Yudanaka & Matsumoto.

Later visit the nearby snow monkey park on your own (entrance fee not included aprox £5pp). Note the hotel offers twice daily free shuttle bus to the snow monkey park, or make your own arrangements.

In the evening return to the Ryokan for a beautiful Japanese dinner and relax in the Onsen hot spring spa.

(Includes Breakfast, Dinner)

Today enjoy traditional breakfast in your Ryokan before taking the train for the unassisted transfer to Matsumoto via Nagano. Proceed to your Ryokan accommodation.

During your free time in Matsumoto we recommend visiting Matsumoto castle, known as 'crow castle' due to its unique black exterior. Matsumoto castle is one of only four castles designated as National Treasures of Japan and is stunningly beautiful. Afterwards stroll around the traditional old quarter (Nawate Dori). Dinner in Ryokan.

(Includes Breakfast)

After breakfast  take the free shuttle bus to Matsumoto bus terminal and board the Nohi bus to Takayama (unassisted). Upon arrival proceed to your hotel.

Free time - Takayama is a tranquil old castle town often nickname 'little Kyoto and easily explored on foot.

We recommend taking an optional guided small group Cycling tour (max 8 people) around the countryside for a wonderful experience. Alternatively take an optional Food and Culture tour of Takayama (2.5 hours).

Self transfer by bus to Shirakawago, which many believe is the 'hidden treasure' of Japan, with uniquely crafted traditional wooden farmhouses. Free time to explore until taking the onward bus to Kanazawa.

We have arranged free luggage transfer to take your large luggage directly to Kyoto. Prepare a light carry bag for your stay in Kanazawa. Leave your large luggage (1 bag per person).

Enjoy your free day using Kanazawa Casual Pack incl Loop Bus pass, Kenrokuen, Tea coupon and art experience voucher..

Kanazawa is home to the Kenroku-en Garden, regarded as one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. We also recommend taking a stroll through the Nagamachi Samurai district.

Free time until departure by express train to Kyoto. Upon arrival make your own way to your hotel accommodation.

Full day guided sight-seeing walking tour of Nara & Kyoto. Travel with our Tour guide by train to Nara, the ancient capital of Japan. Our guided walking tour includes visiting Todaiji Temple,  Nara Deer Park and the magnificent Kofukuji Temple. Return to Kyoto by train.

In the afternoon we visit the magnificent Kiyomizu Temple, Todaiji Temple, Yasaka Shrine and Gion District where you may catch a glimpse of a Geisha rushing to a dinner appointment. Tour disbands in Gion, (approx. 8km walking).

Free day to explore Kyoto or take an optional tour.

(Includes vegetarian Monks Style Dinner)

Meet our English speaking assistant and transfer together to Shin Imamiya. Self transfer to Mt Koya by train and cable car.

Afternoon free at leisure to explore Koya-san

Mount Koya is home to over 117 temples and our temple lodgings is still in use by monks today. The peaceful temple is ideal to relax, meditate and learn more of Buddhist rituals 

Accommodation in a 'Japanese style' room. Communal bath & toilet as standard. Upgrades ensuite rooms can be provided at a supplement.

Free overland large luggage transfer from Kyoto to Osaka (1 bag per person), therefore prepare an overnight carry bag for your stay at Mt Koya and Hiroshima. 

(Includes Vegetarian Breakfast)

Wake early to see the morning Buddhist Ceremony with the monks at the temple and for your Vegetarian Breakfast. The monks are more than happy for you to attend or watch the ceremony, however this tour is designed for cultural interest and not for any particular religious practice.

Leave Mt Koya for Osaka by cable car and train via Gokurakubashi by yourself. Upon arrival in Osaka, take the bullet train from Shim Osaka station to Hiroshima. Proceed to your accommodation. Afternoon free at leisure.

Today enjoy free time in Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima island, or take an optional guided tour. We recommend you visit the Atomic Dome and Peace museum. 

In the evening we recommend visiting Miyajima island and the famous Red torii gate suspended in the ocean. 

In the morning self transfer to Osaka station by bullet train (ticket included). 

Afternoon is free at leisure to explore Osaka, which is easily navigated using the underground subways. A must-see sight in Osaka is the magnificent Osaka Castle located in the city centre. 

You will be transferred to the futuristic Kansai International Airport in Osaka for your departure flight homeward.