Unveiling the Wonders of Japan

Welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival and after clearing customs, you'll be comfortably transferred to your hotel via a shared shuttle bus. The remainder of the day is yours to savour at your own pace. Enjoy your initial encounters with Japan's electrifying capital – whether you wish to explore the city or relax in your accommodation, the choice is yours. Later in the afternoon, you'll receive crucial details about your upcoming tour. Please bear in mind that fellow travellers may join or leave the tour at various stages, which means the dynamic of the group could shift – however, rest assured, the maximum group size will always be respected. 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.

Our second day in Tokyo promises an immersive experience in this captivating city, blending contemporary vibrancy with historic tranquillity. We'll set off on a five-hour guided exploration, starting with a visit to Zojoji Temple. Here, you can take in one of Tokyo's most iconic scenes, with the Tokyo Tower as a striking backdrop. The temple grounds are a tribute to children, adorned with numerous Jizo statues, each lovingly dressed with colourful knit caps and bibs.Our adventure continues to the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing, renowned as one of the world's busiest intersections. From there, we'll explore the peaceful Meiji Shrine, honouring the revered Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Our journey will take us past the elegant Omotesando Avenue and offer views of the picturesque Imperial Palace gardens and the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.We'll travel through Akihabara, the lively enclave often referred to as "Electric Town" due to its ties to anime and manga culture, and catch a glimpse of the esteemed Kokugikan Sumo Arena. Our tour will conclude in the historic district of Asakusa, where we will visit the Sensoji Temple and stroll along the vibrant Nakamise Street. A local restaurant awaits us for lunch.In the evening, at 6:30 p.m., we'll reconvene with our guide in the hotel lobby. Together, we'll head by metro—tickets included—to the bustling streets of Shinjuku, renowned for its nightlife. We'll enjoy a leisurely walk to dinner at a local restaurant, immersing ourselves in the lively atmosphere. After dinner, we'll return to our hotel by metro, guided every step of the way.

On the third day of our journey, we'll embark on an exhilarating ride aboard the iconic bullet train, whisking us from Tokyo to Kyoto. This experience is not only swift but offers remarkable views as we cover the nearly 500 kilometres distance in just over two hours. Our day will be dedicated to exploring Kyoto, which served as Japan's capital for over a millennium and was home to the Imperial Court from 794 to 1868. Remarkably undamaged during World War II, Kyoto's preserved artistic legacy and historical significance offer a unique window into Japan's cultural heritage. We will encounter some of Kyoto's most prominent landmarks, beginning with the awe-inspiring Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates. We'll then visit the Imperial Palace, admire the grandeur of the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the "Golden Pavilion," and its surrounding serene gardens. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Gion, the traditional district celebrated for its geisha culture and lively atmosphere, before having some free time to explore at your own pace. Whether it's discovering more of the city's rich history or savouring local delicacies, the choice is yours in this enchanting city.

Begin your day with breakfast before we set off along the shores of one of Japan's largest lakes. Our first destination is the Shirahige Ginra, a modest yet picturesque shrine by the water. Next, we journey to Eihei-ji, a significant temple-monastery established in 1244, which stands as a central hub for Zen Buddhism in Japan. The temple's striking architecture, serene gardens, and spiritual atmosphere provide a vital training ground for monks practising Zazen meditation. Admission to this captivating site is included.We then travel to Katsuyama, where we will stop at the Dinosaur Museum, Japan's largest site for dinosaur fossils. Here, you'll have some free time to enjoy lunch and wander through educational exhibits showcasing over 40 dinosaur skeletons. Our visit continues with the impressive Great Buddha of Echizen and its temple, where you can climb the five-storey pagoda to take in stunning panoramic views.We will conclude the day with our arrival in Kanazawa by evening, where you'll have the opportunity to relax and reflect on the day's discoveries.

Our day in Kanazawa begins with a guided tour of this historic city, which, like Kyoto and Tokyo, escaped destruction during World War II air raids. We start in the castle area, where we'll admire the formidable walls before taking a leisurely walk through Nagamachi, a well-preserved samurai district. This neighbourhood retains its historical charm with traditional residences, earthen walls, private gates, narrow alleyways, and picturesque water canals, offering a glimpse into the lives of the samurai and their families. Our itinerary includes a visit to Kenrokuen, heralded as one of Japan's most exquisite gardens. The morning concludes at Omicho Market, a bustling traditional marketplace where a variety of lunch options await. Spend the afternoon at your own pace, exploring this captivating city further.

Today, we embark on a journey through the breathtaking mountain landscapes and quaint traditional villages of the Gokayama and Shirakawago regions. Known for their distinct architecture, these UNESCO World Heritage Sites feature houses with steeply pitched roofs, evocatively nicknamed "praying hands" for their resemblance to monks' hands clasped in prayer. This design is not just aesthetic but practical, meant to withstand the region's heavy snowfall in winter. Our first stop is the charming village of Ainokura, followed by the larger and ever-popular village of Shirakawa-go Ogimachi. Here, you'll have ample time to wander the picturesque streets and enjoy lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, we continue to Takayama, where we'll explore the Hida Folk Village Museum in a serene rural setting. This open-air museum showcases over 30 traditional homes from the Edo Period, relocated here to preserve the architectural heritage. These structures display tools and utensils once used in daily life, offering a glimpse into the past. The day concludes with some free time to discover the old town of Takayama, brimming with wooden houses and traditional shops.

After breakfast, we'll set off for Hida Furukawa, an enchanting town celebrated for its festival, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. This festival is renowned for its large drums and exquisitely decorated floats. We will visit the museum, which showcases these extraordinary floats, alongside a collection of costumes and drums. As we journey through the scenic Japanese Alps, you'll be treated to the breathtaking snow-covered vistas that grace these peaks for much of the year. Upon reaching Matsumoto, we'll explore the impressive Crow Castle, named for its striking black exterior, which dates back to the 16th century. After this captivating visit, you'll have some leisure time to enjoy lunch and discover the charm of the town. In the afternoon, we'll continue to Nagano, where we'll settle into our accommodation for the evening.

In Nagano, we will begin our day with a visit to Zenko-ji, a significant site of pilgrimage renowned for housing Japan’s first Buddhist image. You'll experience the Gomakuyo ceremony, a traditional ritual believed to bring blessings and good fortune. Our adventure continues as we head into the magnificent Japanese Alps to explore the Jigokudani Monkey Park. Here, you will have the chance to enjoy lunch and then wander through the forested paths, dotted with rivers and natural hot springs, where colonies of Japanese macaques play and bathe. We’ll ascend further into breathtaking mountainous landscapes, reaching elevations of 2,172 metres and passing by semi-active volcanoes. Our journey will then take us to Kusatsu, a picturesque spa town with a vibrant main square. We’ll enjoy a leisurely walk around the city park, which is home to an open-air onsen. Continuing on, we’ll arrive in Ikaho, another charming spa town, where you can stroll through its historic centre, famous for its terraced streets lined with traditional inns and shops. Tonight, we will be hosted at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you can unwind in the baths before relishing a sumptuous Japanese dinner included in your stay. Please be aware that in autumn, the movement of monkeys may vary due to the availability of mountain fruit, potentially affecting park operations. Furthermore, our visit to Kusatsu is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather from November through April.

Today, we'll continue our adventure to the enchanting town of Nikko, where the splendid Nikko-Toshogu Temple awaits. This temple is renowned for its "room with the sound of a dragon"—a fascinating acoustic feature that intrigues all who visit. We will also explore the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a place of tranquility and contemplation. Our journey will take us for a leisurely walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues stand steadfast, silently overseeing the river.After taking in the beauty of these sites, you'll have some free time to explore the charming town centre at your own pace. Later, we will make our way to Sendai, a dynamic and modern city bustling with energy and charm that boasts a population of over one million residents. In the evening, you'll have the opportunity to discover the vibrant streets of Sendai and enjoy dinner amidst its lively atmosphere.

Our day begins as we set off for the captivating city of Matsushima, nestled along the "Thousand Islands" Bay of the Pacific Ocean, widely regarded as one of Japan's most scenic locales. Upon our arrival, we'll savour a cup of traditional tea at an elegant tea house with sweeping sea views as our guide enriches our understanding of the city. Next, we'll embark on a delightful 50-minute cruise around the bays, with lunch provided on board. Our journey continues to Hiraizumi, where we'll immerse ourselves in history by visiting time-honoured temples, starting with Takkoku no Iwaya, an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into rock in 801. We'll then explore Chusonji's splendid Buddhist temples and enjoy a tranquil stroll in the Motsuji Temple gardens. Here you'll have the chance to participate in a Zen ceremony, with admission included in your tour.As the day draws to a close, we'll head to Morioka, the charming capital of Iwate Province, where we'll settle into our hotel and have some free time to explore this delightful city at our own pace.

As we journey through a region of outstanding natural beauty, we'll make our way to Hirosaki. Here, we will visit its famed castle, nestled in a scenic park that delights visitors each spring with a spectacular display of over 2,500 cherry trees in full bloom. Our adventure continues as we head to Aomori, the vibrant provincial capital situated on the shores of Mutsu Bay. In Aomori, we will explore the Nebuta Museum, where you will discover Japan's vibrant tradition of festival celebrations akin to carnivals, featuring elaborately painted and illuminated floats. Lunch is included at a local restaurant.Following our meal, we'll board a ferry for a delightful journey of just over three and a half hours, crossing to the island of Hokkaido. Upon arrival in Hakodate, you’ll have the chance to wander its charming historic district, where you’ll encounter intriguing cultural influences, such as the Russian Orthodox Church and numerous other Christian churches.

In the morning, we'll explore Hakodate's lively fish market, offering a fascinating glimpse into local culture. Afterwards, we ascend the Goryokaku Tower to enjoy breathtaking views and appreciate the star-shaped design of Hakodate's historic fortress. Following this, you’ll have some leisure time to explore the castle grounds on your own. We then travel to Onuma, a stunning natural area scattered with numerous small islands. Here, you can choose to enjoy a boat ride or wander along picturesque walking trails, and lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, our journey takes us along the coast to Noboribetsu, famed for its awe-inspiring volcanic landscape. We will venture through the steam vents of Jigokudani, also known as Hell Valley, and admire the misty waters of Lake Oyunuma. Following the hot spring river trail, we reach a scenic spot perfect for a relaxing foot bath. Later, we continue to Sapporo, arriving in the evening at this beautiful northern capital of Japan.

Experience the vibrant city of Sapporo on a captivating tour. We begin with a visit to the famous Clock Tower and the scenic Odori Koen, a beautiful park-lined street dominated by the impressive Sapporo TV Tower. Our journey takes us to the serene Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we will partake in a Kito, a traditional prayer of gratitude for our travels.Venturing to the outskirts of Sapporo, we'll explore the Hill of Buddha, an extraordinary display of modern architecture established in 2015. This lavender-clad hilltop houses an imposing Buddha statue, alongside replicas of the iconic Moai statues from Easter Island.Our day continues in the charming town of Otaru, reminiscent of European influences with its lively shopping streets, historic canal, and quaint museums. Lunch is provided at a local restaurant, capturing the flavours of the region.Returning to Sapporo by mid-afternoon, the rest of the day offers free time for you to delve deeper into the city's attractions or simply unwind at your own pace.

Following breakfast, our journey concludes, allowing you to depart with cherished memories of your adventure. Enjoy your final moments in Sapporo, reflecting on the experiences you've gathered over your travels. Safe travels!