Japan: Sushi & Shrines

The next 12 days delving into Japanese culture looks like: discovering the modern, the ancient and all the weird, whacky and totally wonderful in between.

First: say konnichiwa to your fellow explorers. Then: we'll kick things off with a group dinner at a local restaurant. Nihon e yōkoso – welcome to Japan!

Down your cup of matcha because we've got a great day ahead of us. First up, it's time for the Meiji Shrine — Tokyo's grandest Shintō shrine. Soak up its serene atmosphere, make an offering, and wander the beautiful gardens. Important: you've got to be covered up when visiting this place – and any other religious site in Japan.

Next, we're heading to the quirky Harajuku district with our in-the-know Trip Leader. Expect kawaii culture galore: neon tutus, rainbow-coloured wigs, bubble tea and fairy floss. We'll also swing by the legendary Shibuya Crossing.

Then: we're off to check out the Goma Ritual of consecrated fire at Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple. Your wishes could be part of this experience. And tonight? Get ready to party at an Izakaya (Japan's equivalent of a pub).

It's your last day in Tokyo – spend it however you like. Want to breathe in the fresh mountain air? Join a day tour of Mount Fuji and Hakone for some out-of-this-world scenery, and serious beauty.

A side of Japan you only see in person. This evening: quiz your Trip Leader on where to find the best ramen – and be prepared to order on a ticket machine with pictures of the dishes. It might be a lucky dip, but that's what adventuring is all about.

Rise and shine – it's an early start to get the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train) to Takayama. Sit back and soak up the sights as the Japanese Alps glide by. Then it's time for a taste of traditional life with a visit to Hida Folk Village. And tonight? For the meat eaters among us, there's an optional Hida beef dinner on the menu.

Today we'll start with a breakfast spread before visiting the bustling morning riverside markets. Pull on your walking shoes to explore Takayama Jinya – the last remaining government outpost from the time of the Samurai and Shoguns.

This afternoon, sample some sake at a local brewery. Then there's time to do whatever you want. Explore the nooks and crannies, the narrow streets, the tranquil waters. Do it solo or take your fellow travellers along for the ride. Tonight, you're free to grab a bite wherever you like.

Hello Hiroshima. When we arrive this afternoon, we'll make our way to the Memorial Peace Park and its museum. Here, we'll discover the tragic events of 6 August 1945 when the world's first nuclear bomb was dropped on the city.

Later, dinner is on the cards at a local okonomiyaki restaurant. Try the savoury teppanyaki pancakes — a chance to practice your chopstick skills, or risk adding a few more stains to your shirt.

All aboard the ferry to the island of Miyajima to check out the Itsukushima Shrine. After, we've got the whole afternoon to explore before settling in for sunset. The floating torii gate is spectacular.

Back in Hiroshima: use your free time wisely. Why not try some more okonomiyaki or tuck into some local oysters with a glass of sake. When in Japan, right?

Today, we're hitting the tracks to Japan's traditional capital, Kyoto. Home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, this place ticks all the spiritual boxes. We'll visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine – with plenty of time to hike to the top and explore the torii gates. Feeling peckish? Grab some lunch before we stop by the Nishiki food market. Then: the afternoon is all yours for exploring.

Time to explore the best of Kyoto — and we're starting with a full day of sights. First up is Kinkaku‑ji, the beautiful Golden Pavilion, a serene spot that captures the essence of Zen. From there, it's on to Arashiyama, where the towering bamboo forest will make you feel like you've stepped into another world. You've got some free time here, so make the most of it! Get lost in the bamboo forest. Cross Tokugetsukyo Bridge. See Tenryu-ji Temple and its lush garden.

After breathing in fresh Japanese air and clocking up some serious steps, it's time to hit Pontocho. Atmospheric and traditional, this place is where real Kyoto foodies thrive.

Today we're headed for Osaka: the foodie capital of Japan. Here, they even have a word for “scoff till you drop” – kuidaore. Keen to put it to the test? We've got a date with Dōtonbori Market on the agenda. Think street food that really hits the spot. From deep‑fried skewers to savory pancakes, you're in for a treat.

Start with a hearty breakfast, then set out to explore Osaka your way. It's the perfect chance to experience the city at your own pace — and make every moment count. If you're a foodie, a ramen and gyoza cooking class is a must. If culture is more your scene, don't miss Shitennoji, one of Japan's oldest temples.

In the evening, we'll come together one last time for a farewell dinner at a cozy local spot, then end the night singing our hearts out at a karaoke bar you won't forget. It's been a journey full of moments and memories — and this feels like the right way to send it off.

After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to the Land of the Rising Sun — and to the friends you've met along the way. Swap contacts, stay in touch, and start dreaming up your next adventure.