Japan's Heritage and Natural Wonders

Welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival in Tokyo, you'll be greeted and smoothly transferred to your hotel via a shared shuttle bus. After passing through customs, the remainder of the day is open for you to unwind and explore at your own pace. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo, whether that means venturing into the local streets for a bit of sightseeing or simply relaxing after your journey. Later in the afternoon, you'll receive all the necessary information to prepare you for the exciting adventure that awaits you on 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.

Today, we embark on a captivating exploration of Tokyo with a comprehensive guided tour lasting about five hours. This vibrant metropolis elegantly merges its dynamic modernity with pockets of serene landscapes. We commence our day with a short visit to Zojoji Temple, where you can capture one of Tokyo's most iconic views – the Tokyo Tower behind the temple's historic architecture. The temple is home to numerous Jizo statues, traditionally regarded as protectors of children, adorned with colourful caps, bibs, and windmills.Next, we encounter the famous Shibuya Crossing, often referred to as the busiest intersection in the world. We continue to the peaceful Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, nestled amid a lush forested area. Our bus journey takes us along the sophisticated Omotesando Avenue, leading us to the scenic grounds of the Imperial Palace and the renowned Nijubashi Bridge. Our tour also passes by Akihabara, known as "Electric Town" for its vibrant display of manga and anime culture, as well as the iconic Kokugikan sumo wrestling arena.We conclude our morning tour in Asakusa, visiting the historic Sensoji Temple and exploring the bustling Nakamise Street. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. After some relaxation at the hotel, we reconvene at 6:30 p.m. to meet our guide. Together, we will take the metro (tickets included) to Shinjuku, famous for its energetic nightlife. A stroll through its lively streets leads us to a local restaurant for dinner, which is also included. After this delightful culinary experience, we return to our hotel, again by metro, accompanied by our guide.

After breakfast, we will head to the station to catch a bullet train to Hiroshima. This remarkable journey covers approximately 800 kilometres in about four hours. Once in Hiroshima, a city indelibly marked by the events of 1945, we will take a contemplative walk through the Peace Memorial Park, where the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum serve as poignant reminders of the past and symbols of hope and resilience.Later, we will board a ferry to an island revered for its harmonious blend of the divine and the earthly. Here, we will explore the renowned Itsukushima Shrine, which partially extends over the sea and is dedicated to the guardian of the seas. You will have free time to immerse yourself in the shrine's surroundings and enjoy the island's quaint centre, where you can have lunch at your leisure.We will return to Hiroshima in the evening, where dinner is included, rounding off a day rich in history and cultural discovery. Please note that the sequence of our sightseeing in Hiroshima may vary, but all planned activities will be experienced.

This morning, we'll set off on a picturesque ferry journey to Shikoku Island, spanning approximately two and a half hours. This trip provides a wonderful perspective of Japan as a collection of islands. Upon arrival in Matsuyama, we'll ride a cable car up to its impressive castle, offering splendid views and a glimpse into the region's history.Following our castle visit, we'll explore Ishiteji Temple, a notable Buddhist site that attracts pilgrims from across the country. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant, allowing you to sample the region's culinary delights. In the afternoon, you'll experience the rejuvenating pleasures of Dogo Onsen, a traditional bathhouse dating back to the 19th century, where you can unwind in its restorative waters.

After breakfast, we’ll make our way to Kotohira. We'll visit a significant Shinto shrine, dedicated to the God of sailors, which stands majestically on Mount Zosu. Be prepared for a bit of exercise, as the shrine is accessible via 785 steps. The climb is truly rewarding, not only for the shrine itself but also for the stunning views. Following this, our travels continue to Takamatsu, where Ritsurin Garden awaits. Recognised as one of Japan's most splendid gardens, Ritsurin offers both beauty and tranquillity with its landscaped grounds. Lunch is arranged at a local restaurant, providing a taste of regional cuisine.In Naruto, we'll pause at a magnificent sea bridge. You'll have the chance to marvel at its ingenious construction, and from its glass floor, observe the powerful whirlpools below from 45 metres up. A scenic drive will then lead us across a network of gorgeous bridges, weaving between islands.Our journey concludes in Kobe, where we'll check into our accommodation for the night, leaving you time to rest and reflect on the day's exploration of Japan's natural and crafted wonders.

We begin our day in Kobe with a visit to the Earthquake Memorial Museum, which commemorates the devastating earthquake of 1995 and highlights the city's impressive recovery. Following our time in Kobe, we travel to Osaka, a vibrant hub known for its modern architecture and bustling streets.Our journey then takes us to the serene heights of Mount Koya, a renowned centre for Shingon Buddhism and home to more than 120 temples and monasteries. Here, we explore the sacred Okuno Mausoleum, a significant spiritual site set amidst nature and containing over 200,000 graves. We also visit Kongobuji Temple, originally constructed in 1593, steeped in history and reverence.For our unique overnight experience, we stay in a Buddhist monastery, immersing ourselves in tranquility and participating in a Zen meditation session (Ajikan) led by the monks – an extraordinary opportunity for reflection and inner peace. Our dinner here is a simple, yet satisfying vegetarian meal, reflective of traditional monastic life. In the evening, should you wish, you have the opportunity to attend a temple ceremony before breakfast.Please be aware that, on certain dates, the Earthquake Museum visit may be substituted with a tour of the Sake Museum or a trip to Kobe Tower. Accommodations at the monastery are basic, featuring traditional tatami mat flooring and shared bathrooms – offering a genuine Japanese cultural experience. During peak tourist times, meditation sessions may not be available, and occasionally, due to limited temple accommodations, groups may stay at nearby hotels with half board included.

Our day begins with the peacefulness of a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple. As dawn breaks, we set off for Kyoto, a city that served as the heart of Japan from 794 to 1868, where the Imperial Court once resided. Despite the ravages of World War II, Kyoto's rich artistic and cultural heritage was miraculously preserved. The city also holds a place in contemporary history as the signing site of the Kyoto Protocol on climate change in 1997.Our exploration will lead us to some of Kyoto's most distinguished sites. We will admire the Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of vibrant torii gates, then continue to the historic Imperial Palace, a symbol of Japan’s imperial legacy. A visit to the Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, awaits, where you can admire its breathtaking gardens surrounding the shimmering gold structure.The afternoon offers you the freedom to wander the city and soak in the atmosphere of ancient Japan before we reconvene in Gion. This lively district is famed for its rich Geisha traditions, and you will have further free time to explore its charming streets at your own pace. Should Kyoto already be part of your travel memories, our guide will be ready to offer tips on exploring the city from a fresh perspective.

On Day 8, we embark on a picturesque journey to Tsumago, allowing you to soak up the timeless beauty of Japan's countryside. This charming village, celebrated for its enchanting wooden houses, is steeped in history and offers a vivid glimpse into traditional Japanese life. Here, you can wander at leisure and discover the village's unique character, while we provide lunch to enhance your visit. Our adventure continues to Matsumoto, a vibrant tourist city where history and modernity converge. We'll pay a visit to the striking 16th-century Matsumoto Castle, affectionately known as "The Crow" due to its imposing black exterior. After exploring the castle, you'll have free time to savour the city's lively atmosphere and perhaps indulge in some local delicacies. Our day's journey concludes as we arrive in Nagano, where we will rest for the night, offering you the perfect chance to unwind and reflect on the day's discoveries.

In Nagano, we will begin our day with a visit to Zenko-ji, a highly esteemed pilgrimage site that houses the first Buddhist image ever brought to Japan. Here, we will witness the Gomakuyo ceremony, believed to bestow blessings and good fortune. Our journey will then lead us to the stunning Japanese Alps, where we will venture into the mountains to explore the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park. This experience includes lunch and offers a delightful forest walk with views of rivers and hot springs, habitats of the famous Japanese macaques, often seen bathing in the warm waters.Next, we will ascend through awe-inspiring high mountain scenery, reaching altitudes of 2,172 metres, and take in the sight of semi-active volcanoes dotting the landscape. Our travels will bring us to Kusatsu, a quaint spa town known for its vibrant main square. A leisurely stroll through the city park, featuring an open-air onsen, will round out our time here. We then make our way to Ikaho, another charming spa town, where we will explore its historic centre, famed for its unique stair-stepped streets. Tonight, we will experience the hospitality of a ryokan, a traditional Japanese-style inn. Here, you can immerse yourself in the baths, unwind, and delight in a traditional Japanese dinner included in your stay.Please note, during the autumn months, the movement and visibility of the monkeys can be unpredictable due to the availability of mountain fruit, and if the macaques do not venture down, the park may close. Also, owing to potential weather conditions from November to April, the Kusatsu visit might be subject to cancellation.

Today, we continue our journey to the enchanting town of Nikko, where we'll discover the breathtaking beauty of the Nikko-Toshogu Temple, renowned for its 'room with the sound of a dragon'. This historic site is a magnificent tribute to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founding shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate. Our visit will also take us to the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a tranquil setting that embodies peace and harmony.After immersing ourselves in the cultural and spiritual atmosphere, we'll take a leisurely walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss. This enchanting path is lined with hundreds of Jizo statues, which quietly stand watch over the river, adding an air of sacredness to the journey.You'll then have some free time to explore the charming town centre of Nikko at your own pace. Afterwards, we proceed to Sendai, a bustling and modern city known for its vibrant street life and culinary delights. The evening offers a chance for you to explore this dynamic city and perhaps indulge in a delicious dinner as you soak up the lively atmosphere of Sendai's bustling city centre.

Today, we leave for the captivating city of Matsushima, perched along the scenic "Thousand Islands" Bay, which is widely regarded as one of Japan's most picturesque spots. Upon arrival, we'll savour traditional tea at a splendid tea house with panoramic views of the sea while our guide shares insightful stories about the city. We then set off on a 50-minute cruise around the bay, with a delightful lunch served on board. Our adventure continues in Hiraizumi, where we'll explore its historic treasures, beginning with the ancient Takkoku no Iwaya, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site intricately carved into rock in the year 801. We'll then visit the stunning Buddhist temples of Chusonji and enjoy a moment of tranquillity in the serene gardens of Motsuji Temple, where you can take part in a Zen ceremony, with admission included.We'll end our day in Morioka, the charming capital of Iwate Province, settling into our hotel for the evening. You'll have some free time to unwind and explore this inviting city at your own pace, making the most of its delightful atmosphere.

We set out from Morioka, journeying through a region rich with breathtaking landscapes until we reach Hirosaki. Here, we’ll visit the town’s iconic castle, delightfully situated in a park notable for its spectacular display of over 2,500 cherry trees each spring. After soaking up the scenery, we continue to Aomori, the bustling provincial capital located on Mutsu Bay. In Aomori, our exploration includes a visit to the Nebuta Museum, where we delve into Japan’s vibrant festival traditions, reminiscent of carnival celebrations, with elaborately painted and illuminated floats. A local restaurant provides our midday meal as we absorb the local flavours.Following our meal, we embark on a scenic ferry crossing to Hokkaido, which lasts just over three and a half hours. Approaching Hakodate, we prepare to explore the city’s charming historic district, including its distinctive cultural landmarks such as the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian churches. This journey offers a glimpse into the diverse influences that have shaped this captivating region.

In the morning, we'll depart for an engaging visit to the vibrant Hakodate fish market, offering a lively glimpse into local culture. We'll then ascend Goryokaku Tower, where we can soak in sweeping views and appreciate the unique star-shaped layout of Hakodate's historic fortress. After some leisure time to explore the castle area, our journey will lead us to Onuma.At Onuma, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and an array of small islands, you'll have time to enjoy a boat ride or stroll along the serene walking trails. We'll pause for lunch at a local restaurant, savouring the flavours of the region.In the afternoon, we'll travel along the coastline to Noboribetsu, a remarkable volcanic area. Here, we'll meander through the steamy landscapes of Jigokudani, also known as Hell Valley, admire the steaming waters of Lake Oyunuma, and follow a scenic trail along the hot spring river, where a delightful foot bath awaits. Later, we'll continue our journey to Sapporo, arriving in the evening in this captivating capital of Hokkaido.

Today, we'll set off on a captivating tour of Sapporo, beginning with a visit to the city's iconic Clock Tower followed by a stroll in Odori Koen, a beautiful tree-lined park avenue presided over by the towering Sapporo TV Tower. We'll then head to the Hokkaido Jingu Shinto Shrine, where we will take part in a traditional Kito ceremony—a ceremonial prayer to express our gratitude for the journey. On the outskirts of Sapporo, we'll explore the Hill of Buddha, an impressive piece of modern architecture inaugurated in 2015. This serene hilltop is adorned with lavender fields and features a towering Buddha statue. The site also includes replicas of the famous Moai statues from Easter Island.Our exploration continues in Otaru, a charmingly quaint town reminiscent of Europe, known for its lively shopping streets, historic canal, and fascinating museums. We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Sapporo around 3:30 p.m. The rest of the afternoon will be yours to explore Sapporo at your own pace, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this northern city.

We’ll start our day visiting Pirko Kotan, the Ainu village museum, to gain insights into the history and culture of the Ainu people, the island’s indigenous inhabitants. As we journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Hokkaido’s interior, you’ll be mesmerised by the pristine lakes and towering mountains. Our next stop is the charming spa town of Toyako, set at the foot of a dormant volcano and nestled beside a serene lake formed in an ancient crater. You’ll have time to take in the stunning views during a leisurely lakeside stroll before we continue to the Volcanology Museum. Here, you’ll learn about the area’s fascinating volcanic activity. A cable car ride will then take us up Mount Usu, where you’ll explore the dramatic volcanic terrain surrounding the crater. We’ll include lunch during our explorations. Our day concludes as we travel to Tomakomai to board a modern ferry for an overnight crossing. You’ll enjoy dinner onboard and spend the night in a comfortable double cabin with a private bathroom as we sail across the Pacific Ocean.

After arriving at Sendai Port at approximately 10:00 a.m., we set off for Yamadera, a breathtaking temple complex nestled in the mountains and surrounded by towering trees, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere. This sacred site, with its history spanning over a thousand years, offers a truly enchanting exploration experience. Lunch is included, providing a taste of the local cuisine. After taking in the tranquil sights of Yamadera, you'll continue on to Yonezawa, a renowned region for sake production. Here, we'll visit the Sake Museum, where you'll see a working distillery and learn about the traditional aspects of sake making. The day concludes with a scenic drive through beautiful landscapes as we journey to Aizuwakamatsu, where we will spend the night.

In Aizuwakamatsu, we will explore the Samurai Mansion, where you'll gain insights into the life and traditions of legendary samurai warriors. Following this, a pleasant stroll through the castle garden offers a distant view of the castle, distinguished by its striking red roof tiles. We'll then journey to Iimoriyama, a poignant site decorated with sculptures, including those donated by Mussolini, which commemorate the city's young martyrs.Our next stop is Ouchi-juku, a charming village famed for its traditional thatched-roof houses, where you'll have the chance to enjoy lunch amidst the authentic setting. Later, we will visit the fascinating Oya Museum, ingeniously set in former stone quarries. By evening, we will make our way back to Tokyo, arriving towards the end of the day, allowing you to reflect on your captivating experiences.

Today we leave Tokyo to visit Kamakura, once the capital of Japan for two centuries and often described as a peaceful haven. This enchanting city is famed for its numerous sanctuaries, temples, and gardens. At the Hokoku-ji Zen Temple, we'll enjoy the serenity of the lovely bamboo forest, with admissions covered in your tour. Here, you can experience a traditional green tea. Our exploration continues with Sugimoto-dera, the city’s oldest temple, established in 734. After some time to wander the charming city centre, we will visit the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu), with admission also included.Our journey then takes us along the scenic coastline of the Pacific Ocean to Enoshima, a beautiful island linked to the mainland by a bridge. You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and explore at your leisure. Our day concludes in Odawara, where we'll visit the impressive restored Edo-era Odawara Castle, offering a glimpse into Japan’s medieval past. We will spend the night in Odawara, allowing time to relax after a day filled with historical splendour and coastal beauty.

Today’s adventure promises awe-inspiring vistas as we journey to the picturesque Hakone region, famous for its lakes and mountainous landscapes near the iconic Mount Fuji. Our day begins with a visit to Owakudani, the so-called "Valley of Hell," known for its steaming vents and bubbling mud pools, releasing sulphurous gases into the air. Please note that access may be restricted due to volcanic activity or emissions; if this is the case, we will visit Arakurayama Sengen Park instead.Our next stop is the charming village of Oshino Hakkai, featuring eight crystal-clear ponds and stunning views of Mount Fuji. We then continue to the enchanting town of Kawaguchiko, with its idyllic houses, blooms, and mountainous backdrop, nestled by a beautiful lake. Here, you’ll enjoy a serene boat ride to fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty.Following this, we embark on an ascent of Mount Fuji via the scenic route leading to the Fifth Station, positioned 2,305 metres above sea level. We will then return to Tokyo as our day comes to a close. Do note, during winter months, the roads to Mount Fuji may be closed due to snow or adverse weather conditions. In such cases, we will proceed as far as permitted.As our adventure concludes, we hope you carry wonderful memories from this picturesque journey. Do ensure you check your flight details in case an additional night's accommodation is required. Although the departure transfer to the airport is not included, our guide will provide advice on the most suitable public transportation options to complement your travel plans.