A Week In Japan

Fly overnight to the vibrant, neon bright metropolis of Tokyo, Japan's capital city. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture. (D)

As modern as Tokyo may appear, behind the neon facade is a traditional soul that is easy to find amongst the old alleyways, temples and shrines of the Edo era. Today, you will explore the city, ascending the Tokyo Skytree, Japan's tallest tower, before taking a wander through Asakusa district, stopping to soak up the atmosphere at Sensoji. Drive by the Imperial Palace Plaza and stroll through Hamarikyu Gardens.

This evening, enjoy a Japanese diner cruise on the waters of Tokyo Bay and admire the supercharged lights of the city. (B/L/D)

Travel by road from Tokyo to Fuji, where you'll ascend 2,300 metres up Japan's most iconic sight to the '5th Station' for magnificent views of both Fuji's cone and the surrounding landscapes. If the road to the 5th Station is closed, you will instead visit the Fuji Visitor Centre. Transfer to the spa region of Hakone by coach. Embark on a cruise on the spectacular Lake Ashi, keeping an eye out for the bright red of vermilion torii gates that nestle on the surrounding alpinesque hills and in the shallows of the lake itself. You may even catch a glimpse of the cone of Mt Fuji peering over the hills, though once you have flown high above the lake of the Komagatake Ropeway to the summit of Mt Komagatake the views of Mt Fuji will be breathtaking but weather dependent of course! Stay overnight in Mishima (B/L/D)

Transfer to Odawara Station, jump onboard the bullet train and whizz your way to Kyoto. Capital for a millennium, Kyoto was also the heart of religion, philosophy, art and cuisine, making it a treasure trove of history and culture. It is here that all of the best known cultural arts were born, including the tea ceremony, Kabuki and Geisha.

This afternoon, visit the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine. Follow the pathway through thousands of vermillion torii gates that leads through a complex of shrines spread over a peaceful, forested hillside. (B/L/D)

Begin the day with a visit to one of Japan's most famous temples, Kinkakuji, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion'. Set amongst classical Japanese zen gardens and on the edge of a reflecting pool, the temple's main hall is covered in gold leaf – a breathtaking sight no matter what season you visit in. Continue to Ryoanji Temple, where you can contemplate Japan's most famous zen garden. Enjoy a taste of authentic Japanese culture, experiencing the elegant ritual of a tea ceremony with a tea master and learn the traditional art of calligraphy. (B/L/D)

This morning, depart for Nara. Another former capital, Nara also has a huge cultural legacy, considered second only to Kyoto's. This picturesque, compact city is endlessly charming, something you'll notice as you explore. Spend the morning discovering Todai-ji Templeh which houses the magnificent Daibutsu, a 15-metre tall bronze statue of Buddha. Here you'll also be able to meet Nara's famous Sika Deer, believed to be the messengers of the Shinto gods. You'll also stroll Isui-en, a prime example of a Meiji-era (1868-1912) garden. Continue to Osaka, where you'll have lunch and explore the Dontonburi district, Osaka's vibrant foodie and entertainment district. It isbest known for its plethora of neon signs and snack-offering street food stalls.

Later, you can learn about the turbulent history of the magnificent Osaka Castle. (B/L/D)

Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day. (B)