Japan's Enchanting Castles and Serene Shrines

Welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival in Osaka, we will arrange a transfer to your hotel, allowing you some free time to unwind. In the afternoon, we'll provide you with essential information about the commencement of your tour. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On our second day, we begin with a journey to Himeji to explore its extensive castle complex, a quintessential example of Japanese castle architecture. This part of the trip offers an engaging insight into historical design and construction. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, which is included in our itinerary, we continue to Okayama. Here, we will visit Korakuen, one of Japan's most exquisite gardens, celebrated for its tranquil lakes, cascading waterfalls, and traditional teahouses. You will then have the chance to cross the pedestrian bridge over the river to view Okayama Castle, a remarkable sixteenth-century structure that was faithfully rebuilt in 1966 after World War II. While the interior visit is not included, the exterior is quite striking, offering a glimpse into the past. Following this, you have free time to explore the vibrant city of Okayama, a bustling provincial capital home to just over 700,000 residents. It's a perfect opportunity to discover local culture and perhaps indulge in some shopping or dining. Please note, on occasion, our accommodation might be in Fukuyama or Kurashiki, with a possible visit to Kurashiki that same afternoon.

On our third day, we�ll journey to Kurashiki, a city celebrated for its well-preserved historic centre. You�ll have the opportunity to wander through its charming streets, immersing yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of this picturesque location. Our travels will then lead us to Hiroshima, a city steeped in history due to the atomic bomb event of 1945. We will visit the poignant Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the insightful Peace Memorial Museum where you�ll learn about the city�s endurance and renewal. Seeking tranquillity after these reflections, we�ll board a ferry to an island known as the place "where men and gods live together." Here, we will explore the renowned Itsukushima Shrine, a site dedicated to the sea's guardian deity, with sections beautifully built over the water. You�ll have time to explore the shrine, stroll through the quaint town centre, and savour a leisurely lunch. Later, we will return to our Hiroshima hotel where dinner awaits. Please note, the sequence of our visits in Hiroshima might be adjusted, though the day's experience will remain unchanged.

Today, we'll embark on a delightful ferry ride to Shikoku Island, allowing you to appreciate Japan's unique geography as a nation of islands. Upon arrival in Matsuyama, we'll ascend by cable car to explore the city's remarkable castle, a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture. Following the castle visit, we'll head to Ishiteji, a picturesque Buddhist temple renowned as a significant pilgrimage destination. You�ll find the serene surroundings deeply inspiring. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, offering you a taste of regional cuisine. In the afternoon, we'll treat you to an experience at Dogo Onsen, a historic bathhouse dating back to the 19th century, where you can unwind in its soothing waters.

We set off for Kotohira, where you'll have the chance to visit a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors. This notable pilgrimage site is situated on Mount Zosu and can be reached by climbing an impressive 785 steps. Moving on to Takamatsu, we explore the resplendent Ritsurin Garden, celebrated as one of Japan's finest gardens, showcasing exquisite landscapes. Lunch is provided at a local restaurant. Our journey then continues to Naruto, where we marvel at an extraordinary bridge spanning the sea. There's an opportunity to walk on its glass floor, offering a unique view of the swirling sea whirlpools from a height of 45 metres. As we continue on a scenic route, you'll be captivated by the remarkable bridges linking the islands across the sea. Our day concludes with our arrival in Kobe, where we settle into our accommodation.

In Kobe, we will begin our day with a visit to the Earthquake Memorial Museum. This museum serves as both a poignant reminder of the catastrophic earthquake that struck the city in 1995 and a testament to Kobe's impressive reconstruction. On specified dates, this visit might be substituted with a tour of the Sake Museum or a trip up the iconic Kobe Tower. Following this, we'll make our way to Osaka, bringing our journey to a close. This adventure will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories. As your farewell approaches, we suggest checking your flight timings, in case you wish to extend your stay with an additional night. Although the transfer to the airport is not included, our guide will offer recommendations for the most convenient public transport options to complement your travel plans.