Japan's Captivating Cultural Odyssey - 8 Days

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo and completion of the customs process, you will be transferred to your accommodation by a shared shuttle service. The afternoon and evening are entirely yours to explore at leisure. Later in the day, we'll provide you with information regarding the start of your tour. Please be aware that the composition of the group may vary throughout the journey as travellers may join or leave at different locations along the route, though the maximum group size will not be exceeded. Enjoy your initial impressions of this vibrant city as you settle in for your adventure. 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 embark on a captivating guided tour of Tokyo, a city where vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighbourhoods seamlessly blend with tranquil, serene spaces. Over approximately five hours, we explore iconic sights, starting with a visit to Zojoji Temple. Here, you�ll have the opportunity to capture one of the quintessential views of Tokyo Tower, framed by the temple grounds adorned with colourful Jizo statues, believed to be the protectors of children. Next, we head to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, known as possibly the busiest intersection in the world, before visiting the tranquil Meiji Shrine, honouring Emperor Meiji and his wife. Our exploration continues along Omotesando Avenue, from where we�ll glimpse the picturesque parts of the Imperial Palace and admire the famed Nijubashi Bridge.

Our journey then takes us through Akihabara, a district celebrated as the epicentre of Japanese manga and anime culture, before driving past the Kokugikan, the country�s prominent sumo wrestling arena. We conclude our tour in Asakusa, visiting the historic Sensoji Temple and strolling along the lively Nakamise Street. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, after which we return to the hotel.

At 6:30 p.m., we meet our guide in the hotel lobby for a metro ride (tickets provided) to the vibrant Shinjuku district, renowned for its energetic nightlife. We�ll enjoy a leisurely walk through the bustling streets before dining at a local restaurant (dinner included). Following the evening�s enjoyment, we return to the hotel by metro, accompanied by our guide.

On our third day, we'll set off for the captivating city of Nikko, arriving by 10:30 a.m. Our first stop is the remarkable Nikko Toshogu Shrine, famed for its exquisite "Crying Dragon" room, where striking acoustics await us. We continue our exploration with a visit to the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, nestled in an awe-inspiring location amidst the natural beauty of the area. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a scenic walk along the river at Kannaga Fuchi, where the path is quietly overseen by numerous Jizo statues. These stone figures are cultural symbols in Japan, offering protection and guidance. You'll then have some free time to discover the heart of Nikko at your own pace.

Later in the day, we proceed to Sendai, a vibrant modern city teeming with life, home to over a million people. Once there, you're free to wander through its bustling centre, perhaps stopping to indulge in some local culinary delights for dinner while soaking up the city's lively atmosphere.

Our journey today takes us to the picturesque city of Matsushima, set on the stunning "Thousand Islands" Bay of the Pacific Ocean, a location often regarded as one of the most beautiful in Japan. Once we arrive, we'll visit a splendid tea house with views of the sea. Here, we'll savour a traditional cup of tea while our guide shares insightful stories about the city. Following this, we'll embark on a 50-minute cruise, during which we'll also enjoy lunch aboard.

Our tour continues to Hiraizumi, where we explore some of its historic temples. We begin with Takkoku no Iwaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into the rock face in 801. We then visit the sprawling Buddhist temple complex of Chusonji, followed by a serene moment in the gardens of Motsuji Temple. Here, you're welcome to participate in a Zen ceremony, with admission included. The day's journey concludes in Morioka, the charming capital of Iwate Province, where we settle into our hotel for the night. You'll have some free time to explore Morioka at your leisure.

Today, we begin our journey through stunning landscapes as we travel to Hirosaki. Here, we will explore the iconic Hirosaki Castle, beautifully set within a park renowned for its vibrant display of over 2,500 cherry trees each spring. Our adventure continues to Aomori, the capital of the region on the picturesque Mutsu Bay. In Aomori, we will visit the Nebuta Museum, where you�ll discover the fascinating traditions of Japan's festival culture, akin to carnival celebrations, featuring spectacularly painted and illuminated floats. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

Later, we will embark on a leisurely ferry crossing to the island of Hokkaido, a scenic journey lasting just over three and a half hours. Upon our arrival in Hakodate, we shall explore its charming historic district. In this culturally rich area, you can admire influences including the Russian Orthodox Church and other significant Christian churches.

In the morning, we visit Hakodate�s vibrant fish market, offering a fascinating glimpse into local culture with its bustling stalls and array of fresh seafood. Following this, we ascend the Goryokaku Tower for breathtaking panoramic views, where you'll be able to appreciate the unique star-shaped design of Hakodate�s historic fortress. You�ll then have free time to explore the castle area at your own pace before we continue our journey to Onuma.

Nestled among countless small islands, Onuma offers a picturesque natural setting. You�ll have the opportunity to take a boat ride or enjoy a leisurely stroll along its scenic walking trails. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, we travel along the coastline to Noboribetsu, an extraordinary volcanic region. Here, we�ll wander through the steam vents of Jigokudani, also known as Hell Valley, admire the misty waters of Lake Oyunuma and follow the trail along the hot spring river to a scenic spot where you can soak in a relaxing foot bath.

Later, we continue to Sapporo, arriving in the evening at this beautiful northern capital of Japan.

In Sapporo, we will embark on a city tour featuring visits to the iconic Clock Tower and Odori Koen, a beautiful, park-lined avenue dominated by the imposing Sapporo TV Tower. We will also explore the magnificent Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we will participate in a Kito ceremony, a traditional prayer of gratitude for our journey.

On the city's outskirts, we'll visit the Hill of Buddha, a remarkable example of avant-garde architecture inaugurated in 2015. This hilltop, covered in vibrant lavender, houses a massive Buddha statue and includes replicas of the famous Moai statues from Easter Island.

Our adventure continues to Otaru, a charming town with a European flair, boasting bustling shopping streets, a historic canal, and quaint museums. Lunch will be at a local restaurant. We'll return to Sapporo around 3:30 p.m., leaving you with the rest of the afternoon to explore at your leisure.

After enjoying breakfast, our journey concludes, providing you with an array of cherished memories from your travels.