Japan Unveiled

Once you have arrived in Tokyo, you make your way to your accommodation in the heart of the city. Japan's capital blends futuristic energy with centuries of tradition, from neon-lit streets to historic temples and quiet gardens, and this trip begins right in the middle of it.

With the rest of the day free, you could wander through Ginza's shopping streets or find a quiet spot for dinner in Shinjuku before settling in ahead of a busy few days exploring the city.

The morning is free to spend as you choose - perhaps explore the grounds of the Imperial Palace or browse the electronics stores of Akihabara - before meeting your guide in Shibuya this afternoon.

At 2 pm, you join your guide for a two hour walking tour of Shibuya, starting at Shibuya Station with The Myth of Tomorrow, a large mural by the artist Taro Okamoto that reflects on the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki with a message of hope and rebirth. Originally created in Mexico, the mural was lost for years before being rediscovered and restored in Japan.

From here, you experience the organised chaos of Shibuya Crossing, one of the world's busiest pedestrian crossings, before ducking into Nonbei Yokocho, a narrow lane of tiny traditional bars also known as Drunkard's Alley. The walk continues through Miyashita Park, a multi-level urban space built above Shibuya Station with a skate park, climbing wall and sports court, and on to the youthful energy of Center Gai and the trendier streets of Maruyama-cho, once the city's red-light district.

The tour finishes at the Hachiko Statue, a bronze memorial to the Akita dog who continued waiting for his owner at Shibuya Station for almost a decade after his owner's death in 1925.

Please note: The meeting point for this tour is on the 3rd floor of Shibuya Mark City and can be tricky to find on your first day in Tokyo, so allow extra time - your guide will be holding a sign.

With no activities planned today, you have a full day to explore more of Tokyo independently. You might head to Asakusa to visit Sensoji Temple and browse the Nakamise-dori shopping arcade, or make your way to Shibuya to see the Meiji Shrine, set within a peaceful forested park.

This morning, you depart Shinjuku at 8.30 am with your guide for a full day exploring Mount Fuji and Hakone. The drive takes you along the Subaru Line up to Mount Fuji's 5th Station, at 2,300 metres above sea level the highest point on the mountain accessible by road, for sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. Opt for a ninja-themed lunch along the way to add a playful touch to the day.

From here, you continue to Hakone to explore the steaming volcanic valley of Owakudani, known for its bubbling vents and the local black eggs, or kurotamago, cooked in the sulphurous hot springs. A ride on the Hakone Ropeway brings sweeping views over the mountains and Lake Ashi, before a relaxing sightseeing cruise across the lake itself completes the afternoon.

After a brief stop at Hakone Yumoto Station, you part ways with your guide, who does not travel onward with you. You can then continue independently by standard-class bullet train from Odawara Station to Kyoto, departing at 4.05 pm and arriving into Kyoto Station just over two hours later.

Please note: In poor weather or if sites are closed, alternative locations such as the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, a Lake Kawaguchi cruise or Hakone Shrine may be visited instead.

Please note: The bullet train return plan is not available during peak periods: August 10 – 19 and December 28 – January 6.

Please note: Luggage allowance for this train journey is 20 kg per person.

The morning and early afternoon are free to explore more of Kyoto in your own time. You might visit the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji or make your way to Kiyomizu-dera, one of the city's most celebrated temples.

At 4.30 pm, you meet your guide in front of the Japan Kanji Museum and Library for a two hour walking tour of Gion, one of Kyoto's historic geisha districts. The walk begins at Yasaka Shrine, with its deep connections to geisha culture, before continuing to Tatsumi Daimyojin Shrine, dedicated to protection and good fortune.

From here, you cross the scenic Tatsumi Bridge and follow the tranquil Gion Shirakawa canal, then wander down Hanamikoji Street to admire its traditional wooden machiya houses and teahouses.

The tour continues to Gion Corner to learn about traditional Kyoto art performances, and finishes at the Gion Kabu Kaburenjo Theater. Sightings of maiko and geiko are never guaranteed, but your guide shares tips on where you are most likely to spot them.

Please note: This walking tour involves stairs and is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

After breakfast, you check out of your Kyoto accommodation and travel to Osaka using your Kansai Area Pass, valid for a day of unlimited travel on JR-West conventional lines as well as the Kyoto City Subway, Keihan Railway and Hankyu Railway.

At 11 am, you meet your guide near Kintetsu Nipponbashi Station for a two hour walking food tour of Kuromon Market. You taste your way through Osaka's street food favourites, from takoyaki and wagyu to sushi and seasonal bites, and browse stalls selling traditional Japanese kitchenware and tableware.

The tour also takes in Hozenji Temple and a stroll through the colourful streets of Dotonbori, before you make your way to your accommodation in Osaka for a two night stay.

Please note: Please let your guide know of any dietary requirements at least one day in advance, as vegetarian options on this tour are limited.

With no activities planned today, you have a full day to explore Osaka independently. You could visit the restored Osaka Castle, or spend time at the city's aquarium, one of the largest in the country.

After your final breakfast, your tour comes to an end.