Enchanting Exploration of Japan's Treasures - 7 Days

Welcome to Japan! Once you have cleared customs, a shared shuttle bus will take you to your hotel. You'll have the remainder of the day to enjoy at your leisure. In the afternoon, we will provide you with all the details regarding the start of your 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.

Today, we dive into Tokyo�s captivating blend of modernity and tradition with a five-hour guided exploration of this enthralling city. Our journey begins with a visit to Zojoji Temple, where one can enjoy unparalleled views of the iconic Tokyo Tower, framed by the temple's enchanting grounds adorned with hundreds of Jizo statues. These delicately carved stone figures, guardians of children, are adorned with vibrant knit caps, bibs, and windmills, creating a memorable sight.

We then experience the hustle and bustle of Shibuya Crossing, renowned worldwide as the busiest intersection. Our next stop is the serene Meiji Shrine, devoted to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, followed by a bus ride along the elegant Omotesando Avenue. We catch glimpses of the breathtaking Imperial Palace and its gardens, pausing to marvel at the majestic Nijubashi Bridge.

As we continue, we traverse Akihabara, fondly known as "Electric Town," famed for its vibrant manga and anime culture. We will also see the exterior of the Kokugikan, Japan�s celebrated sumo wrestling arena. Our tour concludes in the historic district of Asakusa, where we visit the time-honoured Sensoji Temple and stroll down the vibrant Nakamise Street. Lunch at a local restaurant is included.

Later, regroup in the hotel lobby at 6:30 p.m., where our guide will escort us via metro to the lively Shinjuku district. Here, we�ll wander through its bustling streets, celebrated for their vibrant nightlife, before enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, also included. We return to the hotel by metro under the guidance of our tour leader, completing our day of exploration.

Today, we'll embark on an early morning journey from Tokyo to Kyoto aboard the renowned bullet train. In a swift two-hour transit, we'll cover the nearly 500-kilometre distance between these two iconic cities. Once in Kyoto, a city steeped in history as Japan�s capital from 794 to 1868 and the backdrop for the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, we'll delve into its remarkable heritage, which remarkably escaped the ravages of World War II.

Our excursion will take us to some of Kyoto's most famous sites. Admire the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. We'll also visit the Imperial Palace and the resplendent Kinkakuji Temple, often referred to as the "Golden Pavilion," set amidst exquisite gardens.

Following this cultural immersion, you'll have the chance to wander through Gion, Kyoto�s pulsating traditional district, celebrated for its geisha culture and lively ambience. The remainder of the day will be yours to explore at your leisure, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this intriguing city.

Today, we embark on a fascinating journey to Nara as we explore some of Japan's most revered cultural treasures. Our first stop is the Todaiji Temple, an architectural marvel constructed in 752. This important Buddhist site is renowned for housing a gargantuan statue of Buddha. You�ll also have the splendid opportunity to wander around and engage with the friendly deer that gracefully roam the temple's picturesque park. After enjoying an included lunch, our exploration continues at the Horyu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This hallowed complex is home to some of the oldest wooden structures in the world, featuring a breathtaking central pagoda. As Japan's oldest Buddhist temple, Horyu-ji holds immense religious significance.

As the day unfolds, we will make our way to Osaka, arriving by evening. Known for its modern vibrancy, Osaka is Japan's second-largest urban area, bustling with energy and life. Once settled, we will explore Dotonbori, a lively district legendary for its colourful backdrop and electrifying nightlife. Prepare to be captivated by Dotonbori�s dynamic atmosphere, a perfect capstone to your fine day of cultural exploration.

Today, we embark on our journey to Himeji, where we'll explore the grand Himeji Castle, a stunning example of traditional Japanese castle architecture. Entrance is included, allowing us to delve into the history and design of this impressive fortress. After savouring a meal at a local restaurant, which is included, we will make our way to Okayama. Here, we can enjoy a visit to the renowned Korakuen Garden, admired for its breathtaking landscapes featuring lakes, waterfalls, and traditional teahouses. After crossing a pedestrian bridge, you can discover the iconic Okayama Castle, a sixteenth-century fortification reconstructed in 1966 following its destruction in World War II (an internal visit to the castle is not included). Later, you'll have the opportunity to explore Okayama at your own pace, a vibrant city with a population of over 700,000. Please note, on some itineraries, we may stay in either Fukuyama or Kurashiki, and the visit to Kurashiki could be part of our afternoon schedule.

Embarking on our adventure, we head to Kurashiki, celebrated for its exquisitely preserved historic centre. Here, you�ll have the chance to take a leisurely stroll through its charming streets, where the past seemingly lingers in the air. Following this, we journey to Hiroshima, a city indelibly marked by the atomic bomb of 1945. Our visit includes the poignant Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Peace Memorial Museum, which powerfully commemorates Hiroshima's history and resilience.

After reflecting on these significant moments, we seek tranquillity on a ferry ride to a nearby island, famed as the place "where men and gods coexist." Here, we explore the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, dedicated to the sea's guardian, and partly built over the water. You'll have time to delve into the shrine's beauty, explore the picturesque town centre, and enjoy lunch.

Later, we return to our accommodation in Hiroshima, where dinner will be thoughtfully provided. Please note, the sequence of our Hiroshima visits may be subject to rearrangement, though the day's essence will remain intact.

After a hearty breakfast, we will ensure your smooth transfer to the station to board the bullet train back to Tokyo. The journey spans four hours, covering the impressive 800 kilometres between Hiroshima and Tokyo. You'll arrive in the capital around 2:00 pm, marking the end of our memorable journey together, which we hope has left you with unforgettable experiences. If you need assistance with your onward travel or an additional night's stay, do check your flight schedule. Please note that departure transfers to the airport are not included; however, our guide will be ready with personalised recommendations for the most suitable public transport options to get you there seamlessly.