Magical Japan

On arrival in Japan, meet your fellow travellers and join a welcome meeting. Then, savour a Welcome Dinner at a local izakaya-style restaurant to celebrate the beginning of your trip.

This morning, set out on a visit to Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu). Situated in the heart of Tokyo, soak in the serenity of this Shinto sanctuary surrounded by lush forest. Continue to the bustling Shibuya Crossing and witness one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. Next, you'll head to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Tokyo. Take the opportunity to find a Japanese souvenir or sample some traditional street food at a bustling shopping street near the temple. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or perhaps join an optional activity.

Enhance Your Journey - TeamLab Borderless Step into an immersive digital art world where technology, light and colour collide in constantly evolving installations. Wander through interactive rooms where art moves, changes and responds to your presence for an immersive sensory experience.

Enhance Your Journey - Taiko Drum Experience Discover the fascinating history and significance of Taiko drumming. Learn how to perform simple rhythms from your private instructor. Together, produce a performance, incorporating the striking poses and powerful shouts that accompany this music style.

Enhance Your Journey - Hama-rikyu Garden Visit the spectacular Hama-rikyu Garden. Established during the Edo period, this tranquil landscape features striking cone-shaped yukitsuri structures - a traditional Japanese technique designed to protect the long, delicate branches of trees from bending or breaking under heavy winter snow. The harmony of historic garden design set against the backdrop of modern architecture creates a captivating contrast.

This morning, board a train towards Hakone. Arrive at this stunning part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and embark on a scenic cruise on Lake Ashinoko. The lake is a tranquil crater, formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. Then, take an exhilarating ropeway ride up to Owakudani, an active volcanic valley known for its steaming vents and panoramic views of Mount Fuji on a clear day. Tonight, your hotel offers access to a traditional onsen, where you may choose to unwind in the restorative baths and experience this authentic Japanese ritual. In the evening, savour dinner at your hotel.

Depart Hakone and head to Kawaguchiko, a charming lakeside town at the base of Mount Fuji, renowned for its stunning natural scenery. Visit the Fujisan World Heritage Centre to learn about Japan's highest peak. Then, continue to Mount Fuji 5th Station (weather permitting), where you can soak in sweeping mountainous views, crisp air and a close-up perspective of Japan's iconic peak. Later, travel to Matsumoto.

Today, visit the iconic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's few remaining original castles. Admire the building's bold black exterior and learn about the castle's historic significance. Then, enjoy an Insider Experience. Head to the historic Nakasendo Trail, an ancient route from the Edo period that once connected Kyoto and Tokyo. Embark on a hike in nature along gentle hills passing beautifully preserved post towns of Tsumago and Magome. Take in serene vistas of traditional wooden houses and scenic countryside along the way.

After Nakasendo, continue to Nagoya, a vibrant city blending tradition and modernity. This evening, indulge in time at leisure or explore Nagoya's lively urban atmosphere.

Insider Experience - Guided Tour of Miso Factory Enjoy a guided tour of a miso factory and learn how this essential ingredient is made. Discover the step-by-step process of fermenting soybeans with salt, then taste distinctive flavours that are central to Japanese cuisine.

This morning, embark on a journey via bullet train to Himeji. On arrival, visit the magnificent Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site often referred to as the “White Heron” for its elegant design. Originally built in the Edo period, this landmark is considered Japan's most spectacular and best-preserved castle. Explore its impressive grounds before boarding the bullet train to Hiroshima. This evening, indulge in Hiroshima's famous local specialty, okonomiyaki - a savoury pancake layered with noodles and vegetables.

Insider Experience - Bullet Train Journey Experience the thrill of travelling on Japan's renowned bullet train, locally known as "Shinkansen". Enjoy the smooth journey despite travelling at speeds of up to 320 kilometres per hour.

Enjoy your Insider Experience before spending time discovering the island's charming streets, local shops, and many walking paths. Keep an eye out for the sacred deer before returning to Hiroshima for a night at leisure. Maybe head to a lively izakaya for snacks and beer or seek out the famous okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake.

Insider Experience - Miyajima Shrine Travel by local train and ferry to Miyajima, an idyllic island famous for its roaming deer and tranquil ambience. Be awed by the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine with a backdrop of stunning coastal scenery.

This morning, explore Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum after seeing the A-Bomb Dome, a sobering reminder of the city's history. Learn about the events of World War II and reflect on the peaceful atmosphere that resonates throughout the memorial. Later, travel to Kyoto and enjoy your included Insider Experiences before enjoying a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant.

Insider Experience - Bullet Train Adventure Japan's bullet trains offer thrilling journeys across the country. Experience the speed, efficiency and renowned onboard service of Japan's iconic bullet train from Hiroshima to Kyoto.

Insider Experience - Spot a Geisha in Gion Stroll through the atmospheric streets of Kyoto's famed Gion district, watching for geiko and maiko, Kyoto's geisha and their apprentices, as they move quietly between traditional teahouses.

This morning, visit Kinkakuji, Kyoto's stunning Golden Pavilion. Admire the shimmering gold-leaf exterior reflecting in the surrounding pond and gardens. Continue to Arashiyama, a district famous for its enchanting bamboo groves and mesmerising riverside views. Later, head to Nishiki Market and peruse an array of food stalls and shops. Pass by stores offering local delicacies and traditional treats. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Kyoto at leisure.

Enjoy a day trip to Nara, Japan's first permanent capital city rich in history and culture. Begin with a visit to Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues in the world. Stroll through Nara Park and encounter friendly deer roaming freely before a stop at Nigatsudo, a beautiful hall offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, return to Kyoto and indulge in an immersive Insider Experience.

Insider Experience - Sake Tasting Japan is the birthplace of sake, a type of rice wine created in the eighth century within the Imperial Palace in Nara. Take part in a sake experience, and learn about this traditional Japanese drink's history and production as you indulge in an authentic tasting.

This morning, take part in a special Insider Experience. Then, travel to Osaka, where you may choose to take part in an optional activity. In the evening, gather for a Farewell Dinner to celebrate the final night of your adventure in Japan.

Insider Experience - Japanese Tea Ceremony Delve into traditional Japanese culture as you take part in a tea ceremony. Learn about different tea varieties and the significance of hospitality in Japanese tea service, as you discover the art and etiquette behind preparing and serving matcha.

Enhance Your Journey - Osaka Castle and Historical Walk Begin at Osaka Castle, exploring its museum, the legacy of Toyotomi Hideyosh and the stunning views from the top floor, before travelling by metro to Shitennoji Shrine, one of Japan's oldest temples. Stroll through its peaceful grounds, then continue into Tennoji Park to Chausuyama, a historic former battlefield. Finish in Shinsekai, passing Tsutenkaku Tower into a lively district of neon signs, local eateries and nostalgic Osaka charm.

Enhance Your Journey - Umeda Sky Building Observatory Visit the Umeda Sky Building, one of Osaka's most striking landmarks. This dramatic structure comprises two 40‑storey towers connected at the top by the Floating Garden Observatory. Ascend via glass escalators to the observatory, where a circular open‑air deck offers panoramic views across the city, the Yodogawa River and the distant mountains.

Enhance Your Journey - Kuromon Market and Street Food Tasting Discover Kuromon Market, Osaka's Kitchen, where around 150 stalls brim with fresh seafood, meats and sweets. Wander the lively arcade, sampling street food favourites like tempura, sushi, karaage and mochi while uncovering the market's Edo-period roots.

After breakfast, your Japan adventure comes to an end. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.