Essential Tokyo & Mount Fuji

This afternoon, you’ll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing, where you’ll receive insider tips, local insights, and a preview of the journey ahead through Japan.

Afterwards, we’ll head straight to our first group dinner – the ideal opportunity to get to know one another while sampling Japan’s exceptional cuisine.

Following dinner, you may choose to continue the evening with your new travel companions at a local bar, or take it easy and enjoy a restful night before the adventure begins in earnest tomorrow.

We begin the day with a hands-on sushi-making class. Roll up your sleeves, learn the art of sushi from local chefs, and then enjoy your own creations for lunch.

In the afternoon, we step into the tranquillity of Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo’s most revered landmarks. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who helped modernise Japan and ushered in the end of the shogunate, this peaceful Shinto shrine offers a calm contrast to the city’s energy. Next, we make our way to Harajuku, Tokyo’s vibrant fashion hub where creativity knows no bounds. Wander through its colourful backstreets, browse quirky vintage boutiques, and sample treats from the area’s well-known street food stalls.

From there, we experience the buzz of Shibuya Crossing - the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. Watch as thousands of people cross from every direction and be sure to spot the nearby statue of Hachiko, Tokyo’s most loyal dog.

The late afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. For something truly unique, you might like to try Kartoon Karting and race through Tokyo’s streets in a go-kart for an unforgettable city experience. This needs to be booked at least 6 weeks in advance and you must have a valid drivers license.

We begin day three in Yanaka Ginza, a nostalgic shopping street brimming with old-Tokyo charm. Next, we head to Akihabara - Japan’s legendary Electric Town. This neon paradise is packed with gaming arcades, anime shops, and all things tech. Challenge your travel companions to a few friendly arcade battles, or, if you wish, enjoy a fun, picture-perfect stop at one of Akihabara’s famous maid cafés.

Our journey continues to the historic district of Asakusa, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. Wander along Nakamise Dori, lined with colourful souvenir stalls, before stepping inside Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple to admire its centuries-old traditions.

In the evening, you have the option to take part in a fascinating sumo experience. Meet former wrestlers, learn about the rituals behind Japan’s national sport, and enjoy a hearty chanko nabe dinner - the same meal that fuels professional sumo wrestlers.

The rest of the night is yours to explore. You might ask your tour leader for local recommendations or head to Hoppy Street, where lively izakayas and traditional drinks such as doburoku offer a genuine taste of Tokyo nightlife.

Tokyo - Shimoyoshida (Mount Fuji) - Tokyo. Today, we trade Tokyo’s buzz for fresh mountain air, sweeping views, and a taste of traditional Japan. Departing Shinjuku by train, we’ll travel to Shimoyoshida and hike up to the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine. With its striking red pagoda and Mount Fuji rising majestically in the background (on a clear day), it’s one of Japan’s most iconic photo spots. Please note that clear views of Fuji are weather-dependent and cannot be guaranteed.

Next, we make our way to Oshino Hakkai, a charming village that feels frozen in time. With its thatched-roof houses, crystal-clear spring ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s snowmelt, and, when the weather allows, spectacular Fuji views, it offers a peaceful glimpse of old Japan. We’ll pause here for lunch and give you time to explore at your own pace.

By afternoon, we’ll return to Tokyo, arriving back in the city with the evening free. As it’s your final night here, make it one to remember - whether that’s with one last bowl of ramen, a spot of last-minute shopping, or a night out celebrating with your travel crew.

This morning, we say goodbye to Tokyo and to your fellow travellers. Whether you're heading home or continuing your journey, we hope your time in Japan has been unforgettable.