Classic Japan Adventure Temples, Temples, Shrines, and Modernity - 12 Days

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo, complete the necessary customs procedures before being transferred to your hotel via a shared shuttle bus. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure, allowing you to unwind or begin exploring this vibrant city. Later in the afternoon, you will receive important details outlining the start of your tour. Please note: This tour is designed to accommodate travellers joining or departing at various stages, which could result in changes to the group composition, though we assure you that the maximum group size will not be exceeded. 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.

In the morning, we'll embark on an enlightening guided tour of Tokyo, a city where vibrant modernity gracefully mingles with tranquil serenity, over the course of around five hours. Kicking off our adventure, we'll pause briefly at the Zojoji Temple, where you'll be treated to one of the most picturesque views of the Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are dotted with myriad Jizo statues—stone carvings that traditionally serve as the guardians of children—each adorned in bright knit caps and bibs amidst surrounding windmills. Our next destination is the bustling Shibuya Crossing, famed for its status as the busiest intersection globally. From there, we'll proceed to the Meiji Shrine, honouring the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort. As our journey continues by bus, we'll meander along the stylish Omotesando Avenue before gazing upon the idyllic scenery of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, where we'll take in the renowned Nijubashi Bridge.

Our route will then lead us through the dynamic Akihabara district, a nucleus for Japanese anime and manga enthusiasts often referred to as "Electric Town." We’ll also glimpse the Kokugikan, Japan’s celebrated sumo wrestling venue. Our morning explorations will conclude in Asakusa at the historic Sensoji Temple and the charming Nakamise Street. We’ve included lunch at a local eatery before returning to the hotel to refresh.

Evening plans include meeting with our guide at 6:30 p.m. in the hotel lobby. We'll then take the metro (tickets covered) to the energetic district of Shinjuku. Here, amidst the vibrant nightlife, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets as we head to a local restaurant for dinner, also included. After our culinary experience, we'll make our way back to the hotel via the metro, accompanied by our guide.

Today, we venture into the breathtaking Mount Fuji region, passing through splendid landscapes en route. Our first stop is Arakurayama Sengen Park, renowned for its exquisite pagodas and unparalleled views of Mount Fuji. Next, we journey to Kawaguchiko, a delightful town nestled among mountains, with vibrant blossoms and the serene Lake Kawaguchiko. Upon arrival, we'll visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a tranquil shrine encircled by majestic trees and traditionally the starting point for pilgrimages up Mount Fuji. Here, we take a moment to appreciate the privilege of visiting such a magical place.

Our itinerary includes a delightful boat trip on Lake Kawaguchiko, offering the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the area's tranquil scenery. Following this, we will drive up the scenic road to Mount Fuji's Fifth Station at 2,305 metres, surrounded by impressive forests and sweeping vistas. Please note, during winter, this ascent may be restricted due to snow or adverse weather; we will proceed as far as conditions allow.

Upon returning to Kawaguchiko, enjoy some leisure time to wander along the lake's edge. Tonight, we stay in a traditional ryokan, where you can unwind in the onsen, Japan’s famous public bath. Dinner is included this evening. Please note, at the ryokan, some rooms are equipped with traditional Japanese-style tatami mats, while others offer Western-style accommodations. In limited circumstances, overnight arrangements may be made in a Western-style hotel.

Today, we'll embark on a picturesque drive along scenic roads lined with tranquil lakes, leading us to Iyashi no Sato Nenba. This quaint village, once ravaged by a typhoon in 1966, has been lovingly restored as an open-air museum. Here, you can stroll through traditional houses transformed into arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits, offering a captivating glimpse into Japan's rich history.

Our next stop is the stunning Shiraito Falls, a majestic cascade standing 20 metres high, considered one of Japan's most beautiful natural attractions. Following this, we'll journey to Nagoya to explore the fascinating Toyota Museum, a must-visit for car enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the evolution of automotive technology.

In the evening, we'll make our way to Kyoto for our overnight stay, allowing you to rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.

Today is dedicated to exploring the historical and cultural treasures of Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, which served as the nation's Imperial Court from 794 to 1868. Uniquely preserved from wartime destruction, Kyoto retains a wealth of artistic heritage, famously hosting the landmark 1997 Kyoto Protocol to curb greenhouse gas emissions.

Our exploration begins in Arashiyama, where we'll take in the stunning views from the Togetsukyo Bridge, often referred to as the "Bridge over the Moon." This scenic spot offers a magnificent backdrop of nature's beauty. Next, we will visit the Tenryuji Temple, renowned as one of the "five great Zen temples" in Kyoto and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will enjoy a peaceful stroll through its enchanting bamboo grove.

Our journey continues to the esteemed Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, followed by a visit to the Imperial Palace. We will also explore the Kinkakuji Temple, commonly called the "Golden Pavilion," where its exquisite gardens offer a scene of tranquillity and splendour. The sequence of these visits may be adjusted.

After the tour, you will have the opportunity to wander through Gion, Kyoto’s traditional district, buzzing with life and a touch of enchantment as you might encounter geishas amidst the historic streets.

Today, we embark on a journey to Nara, where we'll explore the remarkable Todaiji Temple, established in 752. This grand Buddhist temple houses a colossal Buddha statue and is surrounded by a park where you can photograph and interact with the amicable deer that freely roam the grounds. We'll also enjoy an included lunch. Our adventure continues with a visit to the Horyu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its significant wooden structures. Horyu-ji boasts one of the world's oldest wooden buildings and serves as an important spiritual site in Japan. In the evening, we'll make our way to Osaka, Japan’s vibrant metropolis and the second-largest urban area in the country. The day concludes with an evening visit to Dotonbori, a lively district famed for its colourful nightlife. Accommodation will be provided in Osaka, allowing you to rest before the next leg of your adventure.

Today, we journey to Himeji, where we will explore the sprawling complex of the iconic Japanese castle. Admission is included, allowing us to admire the exquisite architecture that has stood the test of time. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, which is part of our programme, we'll proceed to Okayama. Here, we are set to visit Korakuen, celebrated as one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. The garden's serene lakes, waterfalls, and traditional teahouses offer a peaceful escape.

By crossing a pedestrian bridge over the river, you'll have the chance to explore Okayama Castle. Although the original 16th-century structure was rebuilt in 1966 after its wartime destruction, its historic charm remains enchanting (please note that entry inside the castle is not included).

Later, you'll have some free time to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Okayama, a lively provincial capital with just over 700,000 residents. On certain dates, our lodging might be in Fukuyama or Kurashiki, with the option to visit Kurashiki in the afternoon.

We journey first to the historically rich city of Kurashiki, where you can wander through its exquisitely preserved old town, enjoying the ambience of times gone by. Our next stop is Hiroshima, a city renowned not only for its tragic history but also for its subsequent resilience and peace efforts. Here, we'll visit the Peace Memorial Park, the somber Atomic Bomb Dome, and the insightful Peace Memorial Museum, all of which honour the city's past and its dedication to peace. Seeking tranquility after these reflections, we take a ferry to the island renowned as the mystical home of both humanity and deities. On this island, we visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, known for its stunning location partially constructed over water. You'll have time to explore the shrine, take a stroll through the quaint town centre, and enjoy lunch. We then return to Hiroshima for our overnight stay, where dinner will be included. Please note, the sequence of activities in Hiroshima may be adjusted without affecting the overall itinerary.

Today's adventure takes us on a journey by ferry to Shikoku Island. This two-and-a-half-hour voyage offers a delightful opportunity to experience the maritime character of Japan, a nation comprising numerous islands. Upon arrival in Matsuyama, we'll ascend to the historic Matsuyama Castle via cable car, where you can admire the breathtaking views and rich history of this architectural gem. Next, we'll immerse ourselves in the spiritual atmosphere at Ishiteji Temple, a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site.

After enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, our afternoon will include a visit to Dogo Onsen, a traditional bathhouse renowned for its soothing waters and 19th-century architecture. Here, you can unwind and enjoy a quintessentially Japanese experience.

After departing from Matsuyama, we'll make our way to Kotohira, where you'll have the chance to visit a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of sailors. Perched on Mount Zosu, this important pilgrimage site is reached by ascending 785 steps. Our next stop is Takamatsu, where we'll explore Ritsurin, celebrated as one of Japan's most exquisite gardens. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. Later, in Naruto, we'll stop at an impressive sea-spanning bridge. You'll have the opportunity to walk along its glass floor, offering a unique view of the swirling sea currents 45 metres below. As we continue, our scenic route will take us across a series of beautiful bridges connecting the islands, culminating in our arrival at Kobe, where we’ll stay overnight.

In Kobe, our journey leads us to the Earthquake Memorial Museum, a poignant site dedicated to the 1995 earthquake that devastated the city, highlighting the resilience and recovery efforts in its aftermath. Please be aware that on certain dates, this visit might be substituted with an exploration of the Sake Museum or a trip to Kobe Tower. Following our time in Kobe, we will travel onward to Osaka.

Following breakfast, our tour concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of an unforgettable journey.