On a holiday to Japan, you’ll discover a unique and dynamic culture that effortlessly combines ultra-modern with deep tradition. On the streets of innovative, futuristic cities glass towers and tranquil temples stand side by side, whilst picturesque old towns, and gorgeous landscapes are an easy bullet train ride away. Mix these spectacular sights with a welcoming people, delicious cuisine and rich culture and you’ve got yourself a holiday to remember.
Uncover Japan’s best-known cities, discover the hidden treasures of Koya-san and Nara and view majestic Mt Fuji. There will also be time at leisure to further explore on your own or with your newfound friends.
▪ Explore historic Himeji & Nara
▪ Head to holy Koya-san
▪ Discover delightful Kyoto
▪ Admire beautiful Mt Fuji
▪ Be amazed in bustling Tokyo
Days 1-2: Fly to Osaka
Fly overnight to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka. On arrival you will be met by an English-speaking representative and transfer to your hotel.
Day 3: Himeji
Start exploring Japan today with a visit to Himeji. In the morning, travel around 2 hours by coach and on arrival visit the city’s magnificent feudal-era fort, before strolling through Koko-en, a classical Japanese garden. After lunch in a local restaurant, return to Osaka. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travellers.
Day 4: Koya-san
This morning, transfer around 2.5 hours to the holy mountain of Koya-san, home to a cluster of over a hundred monasteries nestled in a valley enclosed by peaks. Visit Kongobuji Temple and wander around Okunoin. Continue around 2.5 hours to the charming city of Nara, Japan’s first capital. The rest of the day is free at leisure
Day 5: Nara – Kyoto
Stroll through Nara Park to Todaiji Temple, meeting the resident sika deer en-route, before exploring Isui-en Garden. Proceed around 1 hour by road to Kyoto and start exploring this lovely city with visits to Kinkakuji Temple, known as the ‘Golden Pavilion’, and the Zen garden at Ryoanji Temple. Check in to your Kyoto hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Day 6: Kyoto
An interesting morning awaits as you take part in some traditional Japanese activities. Experience the age-old rituals of a tea ceremony, before a session of Zen meditation at the lovely Kodaiji Temple. Depart Kodaiji in tranquil state of mind and return to your hotel, where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 7: Kyoto – Hakone
This morning, transfer to Kyoto station and take the super-fast bullet train to the Hakone area, a journey of around 2 hours. In Hakone, board a coach to explore the beautiful area. Take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi before soaring high on the Komagatake Ropeway for gorgeous Fuji views. There is free time in Hakone before a dinner with the group in the evening.
Day 8: Mt Fuji
Travel approximately 1 hour to Mt Fuji and ascend by road to Fuji’s 5th Station, about half way up the volcano’s slope, for spectacular mountain vistas. After lunch, transfer around 3 hours to Tokyo, Japan’s dazzling capital city, where you can spend the evening exploring this fascinating metropolis.
Day 9: Explore Tokyo
Tokyo is the ultimate 24-hour city, but look behind its frantic, high-tech frontage and you will find plenty of tranquil backstreets and old temples to explore. Today, take a half-day tour by coach of this fascinating city. Head to the 1st observatory of the 634-metre Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views over the city before wandering through the district of Asakusa and visiting Sensoji Temple. Continue to the peaceful Hamarikyu Garden and stroll through the classical landscapes. The rest of the afternoon and evening is at leisure.
Day 10: Tokyo
Today is a free day for you to spend as you wish; your guide will be on hand to give options and ideas. In the evening, get together for your final meal as a group where you can share memories and highlights of the tour.
Day 11: Tokyo
This morning is free at leisure before you transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
