Captivating Journey Through Japan's Wonders

Welcome to Japan! Once you have navigated through customs, a shared shuttle bus will take you to your hotel in Tokyo. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore at your own pace. This afternoon, you'll receive information about what to expect on the upcoming 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 the second day, we immerse ourselves in the dynamic city of Tokyo with a comprehensive guided tour that spans roughly five hours. This vibrant metropolis seamlessly blends high-tech excitement with peaceful retreats. Our adventure begins at Zojoji Temple, offering a stunning perspective of the iconic Tokyo Tower. The grounds are adorned with numerous Jizo statues, whimsically attired in colourful caps, bibs, and windmills, which are believed to guard children.Next, we step into the energetic realm of the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, a testament to Tokyo's status as a bustling urban hub. Our journey continues at the tranquil Meiji Shrine, a site dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his consort. As we travel by bus, we traverse the elegant Omotesando Avenue, catching glimpses of the picturesque Imperial Palace gardens and the distinguished Nijubashi Bridge.Our tour also takes us through Akihabara, fondly known as 'Electric Town', celebrated for its vibrant manga and anime culture. We pass the Kokugikan, Japan’s revered sumo wrestling venue, before concluding our tour in the historic Asakusa district. Here, we explore Sensoji Temple and the lively Nakamise Street, a bustling walkway filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs. A delightful lunch at a local restaurant is included before we return to our hotel.In the evening at 6:30 p.m., we reconvene with our guide in the hotel lobby and navigate the Tokyo metro (tickets provided) to the spirited Shinjuku district. Known for its electrifying nightlife, we'll enjoy a leisurely stroll through its vibrant streets, leading to a local restaurant where dinner is included. Following a fulfilling day, we return to the hotel by metro, guided safely back.

On our third day, we venture towards the captivating Mount Fuji region, traversing picturesque landscapes en route. Our initial stop is at Arakurayama Sengen Park, where you will encounter stunning pagodas set against the iconic backdrop of Mount Fuji. Continuing our journey, we reach Kawaguchiko, a delightful town embraced by majestic mountains, vibrant blooms, and the scenic Lake Kawaguchiko. Upon arrival, we'll visit the tranquil Fuji Sengen Shrine, traditionally the starting point for pilgrimages up Mount Fuji, providing a serene setting for reflection and gratitude.Our itinerary includes a pleasant boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, allowing you to bask in the area's serene beauty. We then ascend Mount Fuji via a scenic road to the Fifth Station, positioned at 2,305 metres, offering awe-inspiring views and lush forest surroundings. Please note, in winter months, snowfall or adverse weather may limit access, and we will travel as far as conditions permit.We will return to Kawaguchiko, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside. Tonight, our accommodation is in a traditional Japanese ryokan, offering an opportunity to unwind in an onsen (public bath). Dinner will be provided. Please note, rooms at the ryokan may feature Japanese-style tatami mats or Western-style furnishings, and occasionally, we may arrange for a stay in a Western-style hotel.

Today, we set off from Kawaguchiko along a picturesque route lined with scenic lakes, heading towards Iyashi no Sato Nenba. This charming village, once destroyed by a typhoon in 1966, has been lovingly restored as an open-air museum. Here, traditional houses have been transformed into arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits, offering you a fascinating insight into Japan's rich past.Our next destination is the stunning Shiraito Falls, where the waters cascade gracefully from a height of 20 metres, creating one of Japan's most breathtaking natural spectacles. From Shiraito Falls, we continue onwards to Nagoya, where we'll pay a visit to the Toyota Museum. Admission to this must-see destination is included, providing car enthusiasts and curiosity seekers alike with a captivating look at the evolution of automotive innovation.After exploring the museum, we journey to Kyoto, where you'll be treated to an overnight stay in this historic city. Kyoto's blend of rich history and vibrant culture is sure to make for a memorable evening.

We will immerse ourselves in the history and beauty of Kyoto today, a city that served as Japan's capital from 794 to 1868 and the home of the Imperial Court. Unlike many other cities, Kyoto was spared the devastation of World War II bombings, preserving its rich artistic legacy. Here, in 1997, the renowned Kyoto Protocol was signed, a significant international agreement aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.Our day begins with a visit to Arashiyama to take in the stunning views from the Togetsukyo Bridge, aptly named the "Bridge over the Moon." Afterwards, we explore the Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s illustrious five great Zen temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before enjoying a tranquil walk through the enchanting bamboo grove surrounding the temple.Next, we will visit the dramatic Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, and make our way to the exquisite Kinkakuji Temple, or "Golden Pavilion," set amid beautifully landscaped gardens. The Imperial Palace, steeped in history, is also on our itinerary. While the sequence of visits might vary, each location promises a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.Once the guided portion of the day concludes, you're free to explore the vibrant neighbourhood of Gion, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and as a hub for geisha culture. Enjoy wandering the historic streets, absorbing the atmosphere of one of Japan’s most enthralling districts.

On day six, we'll depart from Kyoto and venture into the picturesque countryside en route to Tsumago. This quaint village, renowned for its beautifully preserved wooden houses, offers a quintessential glimpse into Japan's past and is considered one of the country's most charming locales. You'll have some free time to wander at your own pace and soak up the atmosphere. Lunch is included today, providing an opportunity to sample local delicacies. Later, we will journey to Matsumoto, a vibrant tourist city famous for its stunning 16th-century castle, often referred to as "The Crow" due to its striking black exterior. After exploring this historic site, you can enjoy some time to discover Matsumoto's lively streets and intriguing shops on your own. Our day concludes with a trip to Nagano, where we'll settle in for the evening.

Our day begins in Nagano with a visit to Zenko-ji, one of Japan's most revered Buddhist temples, renowned for its cultural significance and home to the country's first Buddhist statue. Here, you’ll participate in the Gomakuyo ceremony, believed to bring good fortune. From Nagano, we head into the beautiful Japanese Alps to explore the Jigokudani Monkey Park. The park is famous for its resident troop of Japanese macaques, who can be seen bathing in the area's hot springs. You'll have time to enjoy lunch amidst this serene environment before taking a gentle stroll through the surrounding forests and rivers.As we climb to higher altitudes, reaching up to 2,172 metres, you'll be treated to extraordinary mountain vistas and intriguing semi-active volcanoes. Our journey then takes us to Kusatsu, a delightful spa town celebrated for its rejuvenating waters. We’ll wander through the city park, home to an inviting open-air onsen. Our travels for the day conclude in the picturesque spa town of Ikaho. Known for its historic, stair-stepped streets, Ikaho offers a classic Japanese atmosphere. We’ll stay overnight in a traditional ryokan, where you can unwind in its public baths and delight in an authentic Japanese dinner, included with our stay. Please note, during autumn, the movement of the macaques can vary with changes in fruit availability, which may affect park accessibility. Additionally, adverse weather conditions from November to April may impact our visit to Kusatsu.

Today, we shall travel to Nikko, a town noted for its extraordinary beauty and significant cultural heritage. Our first stop will be the remarkable Nikko-Toshogu Temple, renowned for its exquisitely carved decorations and the acoustically unique Room of the Crying Dragon. We’ll then visit the peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, which offers a serene and contemplative environment. A walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss will reveal a procession of Jizo statues, each gazing intently over the river. You’ll have time to explore the town's centre at your own pace. Later, we’ll continue to Sendai, a bustling city known for its dynamic atmosphere and urban charm. Here, feel free to wander its lively streets and perhaps find a spot to enjoy dinner amidst its energetic nightlife.

Our journey continues as we set off for the enchanting city of Matsushima, celebrated for its stunning "Thousand Islands" Bay on the Pacific Ocean. Widely regarded as one of Japan's most beautiful spots, Matsushima will captivate you with its natural splendour. Upon arrival, we'll visit an exquisite tea house overlooking the sea, where we'll savour a traditional cup of tea while our guide offers fascinating insights into the city's history and culture. Next, we'll embark on a 50-minute cruise, providing ample opportunity to appreciate Matsushima’s picturesque landscapes, complemented by a delightful lunch on board.Our tour will then lead us to Hiraizumi, where we will explore the area's historic temples, beginning at Takkoku no Iwaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site intricately carved into stone in 801. Following this, we'll visit the majestic Buddhist temples of Chusonji, where you can enjoy a moment of tranquillity and reflection surrounded by the serene gardens of Motsuji Temple. Here, you’ll have the option to partake in a Zen ceremony (admission included), a unique experience that fosters inner peace and mindfulness.We will conclude our day in Morioka, the charming capital of Iwate Province. In Morioka, you'll settle into the comfort of our hotel and have some free time to explore the area's attractions and delightful atmosphere at your leisure.

We journey through a region of breathtaking landscapes to Hirosaki, where we visit its iconic castle nestled within a picturesque park renowned for its more than 2,500 cherry trees that bloom magnificently each spring. Our travels continue to Aomori, the provincial capital situated by Mutsu Bay. Here, we explore the captivating Nebuta Museum, a hub celebrating Japan's vibrant festival traditions with its strikingly painted and illuminated floats reminiscent of carnival celebrations. Lunch is enjoyed in a local restaurant before we board a ferry for a scenic crossing to the island of Hokkaido, an experience lasting just over three and a half hours. Upon arrival in Hakodate, we explore its quaint historic district, admiring a blend of cultural influences, including the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian landmarks.

On Day 11, our adventure begins with a visit to the bustling fish market in Hakodate, a vibrant hub offering a fascinating peek into the region's seafood culture. Next, we'll ascend Goryokaku Tower, taking in stunning panoramic views and appreciating the unique star-shaped design of the historic Hakodate fortress. After some free time exploring the castle area, we head to the beautiful natural landscape of Onuma. Here, you have the opportunity to take a leisurely boat ride or wander along picturesque walking trails, surrounded by numerous small islands. Lunch is included at a local restaurant.In the afternoon, our journey continues along the scenic coastline to Noboribetsu, an area renowned for its impressive volcanic terrain. We will explore the sulphurous vents of Jigokudani, aptly named 'Hell Valley', and admire the steaming waters of Lake Oyunuma. Following a trail along a hot spring river, we reach a serene spot for a relaxing foot bath, allowing you to unwind amidst nature's wonders. Our day concludes with a trip to Sapporo, where we will arrive in the evening to experience the lively atmosphere of Japan's northern capital.

Today, we'll embark on an exploration of Sapporo, a vibrant city brimming with history and culture. We begin with a visit to the famous Clock Tower and Odori Koen, a beautiful park-lined avenue that's home to the prominent Sapporo TV Tower. Afterwards, we’ll make our way to the Hokkaido Jingu Shinto Shrine, where we'll participate in a Kito, a traditional ceremonial prayer to express gratitude for our journey.Venturing to the outskirts of the city, we’ll discover the Hill of Buddha, a striking piece of contemporary architecture unveiled in 2015. The site features a towering statue of Buddha set against a lavender-covered hill, and you'll also encounter replicas of the iconic Moai statues from Easter Island.Our journey then takes us to Otaru, a town with European charm, celebrated for its bustling shopping streets, historic canal, and delightful museums. We’ll enjoy a midday meal at a local restaurant before heading back to Sapporo around 3:30 p.m. where the afternoon is yours to explore further at your own leisure.

Today, we delve into the rich cultural heritage of Hokkaido by visiting Pirko Kotan, the Ainu village museum. This fascinating site offers insights into the history and traditions of the island's indigenous Ainu people. As we continue through Hokkaido's spectacular interior, we'll journey through awe-inspiring landscapes featuring tranquil lakes and majestic mountains. Our next stop is the charming spa town of Toyako, nestled beside a stunning lake formed within an ancient volcanic crater. You'll have free time here to enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore and soak in the breathtaking views.Our exploration of the area's volcanic legacy includes a visit to the intriguing Volcanology Museum, where we learn about the region's history of eruptions. We’ll then take a cable car to the summit of Mount Usu. Here, you'll have time to wander around the crater and marvel at the dramatic volcanic landscape. Lunch will be included during our visit.In the afternoon, our adventure takes us to Tomakomai, where we board a comfortable, modern ferry for an overnight crossing to the main island of Honshu. You'll relax in spacious double cabins with private bathrooms, and a delicious dinner will be provided on board as we sail across the Pacific Ocean.

Upon arriving at Sendai Port around 10 a.m., we’ll set off for Yamadera, a temple complex perched on the mountainside and established over a millennium ago. This atmospheric setting, enfolded by towering trees, offers both spiritual and visual delight. A lunch is included during our visit. There will be ample time to meander through the site and absorb its serene beauty before we continue our journey to Yonezawa, renowned for its sake production. Here, we’ll explore the Sake Museum, which houses a small distillery, providing an insightful glimpse into the craft of sake-making. Our route will unfold through picturesque landscapes as we head toward Aizuwakamatsu, where we will spend the night.

In AIZUWAKAMATSU, we’ll visit the Samurai Mansion, a historic residence where we’ll learn about the legendary samurai warriors and their way of life. Afterward, we’ll take a stroll through the castle garden, from where we’ll be able to see the castle in the distance, standing out with its red roof tiles. Next, we’ll head to Iimoriyama, home to sculptures donated by Mussolini and a site that tells the story of the city´s young martyrs.Our journey continues to OUCHI-JUKU, a picturesque village known for its traditional thatched-roof houses. Here, we’ll have time for lunch before traveling to the impressive Oya Museum, located in former stone quarries. In the evening, we’ll return to TOKYO, arriving at the end of the day.Our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories. Please check your flight time in case you require an additional night. While the departure transfer to the airport is not included, our guide will provide recommendations for the best public transportation options to suit your journey.