Discover Japan Temples, Traditions, and Tranquility - 10 Days

Upon your arrival in Japan, you'll be warmly welcomed and guided through the customs process before being whisked away by a shared shuttle bus to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to unwind and explore at your own pace. You'll receive detailed information about the start of the tour in the afternoon, setting the stage for your exciting journey through this captivating country. 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, our adventure in Tokyo begins with an engaging, five-hour guided tour of this captivating city. Tokyo's bustling, modern districts harmoniously coexist with its tranquil, peaceful spots. Our first visit is to Zojoji Temple, offering an impressive view of the iconic Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are adorned with numerous Jizo statues, intricately carved stones believed to watch over children – each elegantly dressed in colourful knit caps, bibs, and windmills.

Next, we journey to the world-renowned Shibuya Crossing, celebrated as one of the busiest intersections globally, followed by a visit to Meiji Shrine. This serene place is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, reflecting Japan's rich imperial history. As we continue by bus, we'll travel along the chic Omotesando Avenue and arrive at the picturesque Imperial Palace gardens, pausing to take in the beauty of the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.

Our exploration leads us through Akihabara, known as the "Electric Town," a vibrant centre for Japanese manga and anime culture, before driving past the Kokugikan, Japan's largest sumo wrestling arena. We conclude our tour in Asakusa, visiting the historic Sensoji Temple and the bustling Nakamise Street. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant before we return to the hotel.

As evening falls at 6:30 p.m., we'll reconvene with our guide in the hotel lobby to travel by metro (tickets included) to the lively Shinjuku district. Here, we'll experience the buzzing nightlife as we meander through the vibrant streets to a local eatery for dinner (included). Afterwards, we'll return to the hotel by metro, guided by our knowledgeable host.

On the third day of our journey, we will venture into the breathtaking Mount Fuji region, travelling through enchanting landscapes en route. Our first destination is Arakurayama Sengen Park, renowned for its stunning pagodas and iconic views of Mount Fuji. From there, we'll proceed to the picturesque town of Kawaguchiko, encircled by mountains, vibrant flora, and the tranquil Lake Kawaguchiko. Here, we'll visit the serene Fuji Sengen Shrine, a traditional starting point for pilgrimages up Mount Fuji, where we’ll pause to appreciate this remarkable location.

Our adventure includes a delightful boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, allowing us to absorb the area's peaceful beauty. We'll then continue our journey up Mount Fuji, ascending to the Fifth Station at 2,305 metres via a scenic road lined with awe-inspiring forests and views. Please note, during winter months, access to Mount Fuji may be restricted due to snow or adverse weather, and we will go as far as conditions allow.

Returning to Kawaguchiko, there’s time for a leisurely lakeside stroll before we settle into a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Here, you can unwind in the onsen, a public bath, providing a quintessential Japanese relaxation experience. Dinner will be served at the ryokan, where you may find rooms with traditional tatami mats or Western-style beds, depending on availability. Occasionally, accommodation might be arranged in a Western-style hotel for your comfort.

This morning, we embark on a scenic drive around picturesque lakes to reach Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a village reborn as an open-air museum after being ravaged by a typhoon in 1966. The charming traditional houses have been transformed into arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits, offering insights into Japan's historical lifestyle. We'll then visit the stunning Shiraito Falls, a natural marvel where water cascades gracefully from a height of 20 metres. Our journey continues to Nagoya, where we'll explore the Toyota Museum (admission included), a highlight for anyone intrigued by automotive innovation. We conclude our day's travel in Kyoto, where we will spend the night.

Today, we’ll immerse ourselves in the historic beauty of Kyoto, once Japan's capital from 794 to 1868. Remarkably spared from the bombings of World War II, Kyoto retains a wealth of artistic and cultural heritage. The city is also famous for being the location where the Kyoto Protocol, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, was signed in 1997.

Our day begins in Arashiyama, where we’ll take in the picturesque views from the Togetsukyo Bridge, aptly called the "Bridge over the Moon." Next, we'll explore the celebrated Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s renowned Zen temples, followed by a tranquil walk through its enchanting bamboo grove. Our journey continues with visits to the awe-inspiring Fushimi Inari Shrine with its countless red torii gates, the majestic Imperial Palace, and the stunning Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the "Golden Pavilion," set amidst exquisite gardens. Please note that the sequence of our visits may vary.

After the guided tour, you have the opportunity to wander through Gion, Kyoto’s energetic traditional district. It's an area rich in history and known for its lively ambience and geishas, perfect for a leisurely exploration.

Today, we head to Nara, renowned for its impressive Todaiji Temple, a remarkable Buddhist site established in 752. Within its grand halls, marvel at the gigantic Buddha statue, a testament to the temple's historic and spiritual significance. The surrounding park, where friendly deer freely roam, offers a unique opportunity for photographs and interaction with these gentle creatures. Lunch is included as part of our visit.

Following Nara, we will explore the ancient Horyu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This revered site comprises a complex of seminaries, monasteries, and temples, with its central pagoda celebrated as one of the world's oldest wooden structures and Japan's most ancient Buddhist temple, serving as a vital place of worship.

Our journey continues to Osaka in the evening. Known for its dynamic atmosphere, Osaka is Japan's second-largest metropolitan area. Upon arrival, we will visit the vibrant Dotonbori district, famous for its colourful neon lights and energetic nightlife. Accommodation is arranged in this bustling city.

We continue our adventure in Osaka, setting off for the city of Himeji. Here you'll have a chance to explore its magnificent castle complex, a prime example of Japanese castle architecture, with admission included. Lunch awaits at a local restaurant, also included in the itinerary. Our journey then takes us to Okayama, where we’ll visit the picturesque Korakuen Garden, renowned for its exquisite lakes, waterfalls, and traditional teahouses. A pedestrian bridge offers you access to Okayama Castle, a sixteenth-century fortress thoughtfully reconstructed in 1966 following its destruction during World War II. While entry to the castle itself is not included, this spot allows you to appreciate the historical surroundings. You’ll have free time to explore more of this active provincial capital, home to over 700,000 residents, at your leisure. Do note that on certain dates, accommodation may be provided in Fukuyama or Kurashiki, with the possibility of visiting Kurashiki on the same afternoon.

Today, we will venture to Kurashiki, a city celebrated for its well-preserved historic centre. You’ll have the chance to wander through its quaint streets, revelling in the charming atmosphere reminiscent of days gone by.

Our journey will then lead us to Hiroshima, a city profoundly impacted by the atomic bomb in 1945. Here, we'll visit the Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the poignant Peace Memorial Museum, where the city's history and resilience are vividly commemorated.

Following these reflections, we will ferry to an island famed as the "place where men and gods live together." Our visit will include the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, which is partially constructed over the water and dedicated to the guardian of the seas. You'll have time to explore the shrine, stroll through the picturesque town centre, and enjoy lunch.

We'll conclude the day by returning to our hotel in Hiroshima, where dinner will be provided. Please note, the sequence of today's activities in Hiroshima may be adjusted without affecting the overall itinerary.

Following breakfast, we will transfer you to the station for a journey on the renowned bullet train back to Tokyo. This high-speed trip covers 800 kilometres in just four hours, allowing you to experience the incredible efficiency of Japan's rail system. Upon reaching Tokyo at approximately 2:00 pm, you'll have the rest of the day to either relax or further explore the city's vibrant offerings at your leisure.

Following breakfast, our adventure concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of your time in Japan.