When to go
Group: March - April, October – November
Price
From £5,995 pp (including flights) | High Season: £6,295pp (including flights) | Private Tours: Please contact us for inquiries. Group Tours: from £5,995pp
Flight time
14hrs
Introduction
Embark on a captivating journey through the cultural heart of Japan and explore the stunning main island of Honshu. Begin your adventure with a thrilling exploration of Tokyo and the nearby Hakone National Park, where you can soak in natural hot springs while taking in breathtaking views. Visit the peaceful Kenroku-en garden and the majestic castle of Kanazawa before uncovering the wonders of Kyoto, the imperial city renowned for its exquisite temples and shrines. Take a solemn moment to reflect on the modern history of Hiroshima before discovering the picturesque island of Miyajima with its famous torii gate. Finally, experience the magnificence of Himeji’s castle and gardens before ending your trip in Tokyo, a city that never ceases to amaze. With unforgettable experiences at every turn, this is the ultimate journey through Japan’s cultural treasures.
Good For
At a Glance
Duration
12 days & 10 nights
Guide price
Group: £5,995pp (including flights)
Cities/Destinations (in order)
Tokyo - Fuji Hakone-Izu National Park -Tokyo - Kanazawa - Shirakawago - Kyoto - Hiroshima - Miyajima Island - Hiroshima - Himeji - Tokyo
Tour Type
Escorted tour with a local tour manager
Tour Theme
Group tour
Activity Level
Age Range
N/A
Star Rating of Tour
Superior
Accommodation
Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa (or similar) in Tokyo | Crowne Plaza ANA Kanazawa (or similar) in Kanazawa | New Miyako Hotel (or similar) in Kyoto | Granvia Hiroshima / Sheraton Hiroshima (or similar) in Hiroshima | Royal Park Haneda (or similar) in Tokyo
Board Basis
Varied
Min|Max Group Size
Average 15 - Maximum 24
Start/Finish
Tokyo - Tokyo
Extensions
Highlights
Unwind in Kyoto: Tea Ceremony and Culinary Adventure
Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Kyoto and embark on a gastronomic adventure. Enter the welcoming WAK cultural centre, an elegant wooden townhouse known as a machiya, and partake in a delightful traditional tea ceremony, followed by a hands-on cooking class.
Visit Shirakawago's Gasshō-zukuri Houses: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Shirakawago’s gasshō-zukuri houses, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the historic village, and marvel at the unique and intricate architecture of these traditional Japanese homes.
Unveil the Secrets of the Nomura Samurai House and Garden
Step back in time and uncover the fascinating world of the Samurai during a visit to the Nomura Samurai House and Garden. This historic home offers a glimpse into the daily lives of these ancient warriors and features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens that have been carefully preserved for centuries. Learn about their traditions, customs, and way of life while strolling through the serene grounds of this remarkable site.
Craft Your Own Bonsai Tree in Tokyo
Indulge in a hands-on and unique cultural experience in Tokyo with a bonsai tree shaping class. Learn the techniques and artistry behind cultivating and shaping these iconic miniature trees under the guidance of a skilled instructor. Take home your very own bonsai creation as a special souvenir of your trip.
Sample Itinerary
Japan’s Cultural Marvels: A Journey Through History
Discover the magic of Japan with an incredible tour that showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage. For example, learn the art of traditional tea ceremony and cooking at the WAK cultural center in Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the UNESCO-listed gasshō-zukuri houses of Shirakawago and marvel at the unique architectural style of these historic homes. Tour the Nomura Samurai House and Garden to gain insights into the life and times of ancient Japanese warriors. Finish the trip by trying your hand at shaping a Bonsai tree, an art form that has been passed down for generations.
Day 1: Fly to Tokyo
Fly overnight from London with regional connections available to land at Tokyo Haneda Airport.
(Flight included, Airport Transfer, N)
Day 2: Tokyo
Upon your arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation at the Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa (or similar) for a delightful 3-night stay in Tokyo.
(N)
Day 3: Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Japan with a full-day excursion to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Gaze upon stunning views of Mount Fuji, cruise through the picturesque Shirakawago region on Lake Ashi, and take a thrilling ride on the Mount Komagatake Ropeway cable car.
(B, L)
Day 4: Tokyo
Embark on a full-day tour of Tokyo’s most renowned landmarks. Admire the architectural grandeur of the Asakusa Kannon temple, delve into Japan’s rich history at the Tokyo National Museum, explore the tranquil gardens of the Imperial East Garden, and seek solace at the peaceful Meiji shrine. Savor a delectable kushiage meal of fried meat and vegetables during a break in between exploring the city’s cultural marvels.
(B, L)
Day 5: Kanazawa
Embark on a morning shinkansen (bullet train) ride to Kanazawa, where you will visit the impressive Kanazawa castle park, the stunning Kenroku-en garden and the historic Nomura Samurai House. Spend 2 nights at the Crowne Plaza ANA Kanazawa (or similar) to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.
(B)
Day 6: Kanazawa - Shirakawago
Explore the charming Higashichaya District in the morning, where you’ll find an array of teahouses and craft shops, and browse the bustling Omicho market. Spend the afternoon immersed in the tranquil countryside and marvel at the unique and beautiful architecture of the UNESCO-listed gasshō-zukuri houses in Shirakawago.
(B)
Days 7 & 8: Kyoto
Board an express train and head to Kyoto. Experience a full day of exploration with visits to Nijo Castle, where you’ll witness a unique blend of samurai and traditional Japanese architectural styles, and the famous Nishiki Market with its array of food stalls. Head to the WAK cultural centre, a beautifully restored wooden townhouse known as a machiya, to learn the art of Japanese cuisine and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. The next day is at your leisure to explore Kyoto’s countless hidden gems. Stay for two nights at the New Miyako Hotel (or similar).
(B)
Day 9: Kyoto & Hiroshima
Begin your day with a visit to Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavilion), followed by a trip to Ryoanji temple, famous for its Zen rock garden. Spend the afternoon touring the historic city of Nara before continuing to Osaka, where you will catch the bullet train south to Hiroshima. Stay two nights at the luxurious Granvia Hiroshima or Sheraton Hiroshima (or similar)
(B)
Day 10: Miyajima island & Hiroshima
Explore the picturesque Miyajima island by taking a ferry ride to visit the revered Itsukushima shrine and behold the stunning torii gate. After returning to the mainland, embark on a train journey to Hiroshima to visit the iconic Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Memorial Museum, where you can learn about the historical events that took place in the city.
(B)
Day 11: Himeji & Tokyo
Travel north to Himeji city on a bullet train and tour the Himeji Castle, a prime example of medieval castle architecture in Japan and the only one that remains in its original form. Explore the Koko-en gardens, featuring nine individual walled gardens complete with ponds, waterfalls, and a tea ceremony house. Board a train to Tokyo for an overnight stay at the Royal Park Haneda (or similar).
(B, L)
Day 12: Fly to London
Head to the airport for your return flight to London, arriving later on the same day.
(B)
