Journey Through Japan's Iconic Sights - 11 Days

Welcome to Japan! Once you've navigated through customs, a shared shuttle bus will transport you to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax or begin discovering Tokyo at your own pace. Later in the day, you'll receive further details regarding the commencement 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.

In the morning, we�ll embark on an engaging and comprehensive guided tour of Tokyo, an exhilarating city where modern innovations seamlessly coexist with tranquil and serene spaces. This tour, lasting around five hours, begins at Zojoji Temple, offering one of the most iconic views of Tokyo Tower. As we explore the temple grounds, you'll discover the hundreds of Jizo statues, intricately carved figures that are considered guardians of children, adorned in vibrant knit hats and holding colourful windmills.

Next, we head to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, famously known as the world's busiest intersection, before visiting the revered Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife. Our journey continues with a drive along the elegant Omotesando Avenue, followed by a glimpse of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, where we'll stop to admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.

As we pass through Akihabara, affectionately dubbed the "Electric Town," you'll witness it as a vibrant hub for Japanese manga and anime culture. En route, we'll also pass by the renowned Kokugikan, Japan's premier sumo wrestling venue.

The tour concludes in Asakusa, where we�ll visit the historic Sensoji Temple and the bustling Nakamise Street. We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel. Later, at 6:30 p.m., our guide will meet us in the hotel lobby to take the metro together to the lively Shinjuku district. Renowned for its vibrant nightlife, Shinjuku sets the scene for an evening stroll that leads us to a local restaurant for an included dinner. Afterward, accompanied by our guide, we'll return to the hotel via the metro.

We are set for an exciting journey as we board the bullet train bound for Kyoto early in the morning. In just over two hours, we'll travel nearly 500 kilometres from Tokyo to this historic city. As Japan's former capital from 794 to 1868, Kyoto served as the seat of the imperial court. Remarkably, it was spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to maintain its rich cultural heritage. Kyoto is also notable for being the venue where the Kyoto Protocol, aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions, was signed in 1997.

Once in Kyoto, we'll explore the city�s most iconic sites. We'll start by marvelling at the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. The adventure continues with a visit to the Imperial Palace, followed by the serene Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the "Golden Pavilion," set amidst stunning gardens.

Later, take a leisurely-paced stroll through Gion, the traditional heart of Kyoto, famed for its geisha culture and lively atmosphere. After our guided exploration, you'll have some free time to further explore this culturally rich city at your own pace.

Today, we set off for Nara, where we will visit the prestigious Todaiji Temple, a magnificent Buddhist structure dating back to 752. Inside, you'll be in awe of the grand bronze Buddha statue. Outside, you'll have the delightful opportunity to interact with the tame deer that roam the park. After exploring, lunch will be provided.

Next, we'll visit Horyu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated as the oldest wooden building in the world and a cornerstone of Japanese Buddhism. This temple complex, with its ancient pagoda, includes seminaries, monasteries, and places of worship.

In the evening, our journey leads us to Osaka, Japan's bustling second-largest metropolitan area. We will enjoy an exploration of the lively Dotonbori district, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and neon-lit streets. Here, you'll have a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture before settling in for the night in this dynamic city.

Today, we journey to Himeji, where we will explore the remarkable Himeji Castle. This iconic landmark, a brilliant example of traditional Japanese castle architecture, promises an insightful experience. Following our visit, we will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, which is included in our itinerary. Our adventure continues to Okayama, home to Korakuen Garden, one of Japan�s most exquisite gardens, featuring serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and charming teahouses. You will then have the option to cross a pedestrian bridge over the river to view the historic Okayama Castle. Originally built in the 16th century, the castle was reconstructed in 1966 after being destroyed during World War II. Please note that visiting the interior of the castle is not part of the itinerary. Afterwards, you will have free time to explore Okayama, a bustling provincial capital with just over 700,000 inhabitants. Be aware that, on certain dates, accommodation may be arranged in Fukuyama or Kurashiki, with a possibility of visiting Kurashiki on the same afternoon.

Today, we will journey to Kurashiki, a city celebrated for its immaculately preserved historic centre. You'll have the opportunity to take a relaxed stroll through its charming streets, where echoes of the past linger in the beautifully preserved architecture and atmosphere.

Following this, we head to Hiroshima, a city indelibly marked by history. Our visit will encompass the Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the impactful Peace Memorial Museum, where the tragic events of 1945 and the city's remarkable resilience are powerfully commemorated.

To find tranquillity after these reflections, we will take a ferry to the island known as the place "where men and gods live together." Our visit here includes the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for being partially built over the water and dedicated to the guardian of the seas. You will have time to explore the shrine, wander through the scenic town centre, and enjoy lunch.

After these enriching experiences, we�ll return to our hotel in Hiroshima, where dinner is included. Please note, the order of visits in Hiroshima may vary but will not affect the overall itinerary.

Today, we'll embark on a delightful ferry journey to Shikoku Island, a journey of approximately two and a half hours that showcases Japan's diverse island geography. Upon arrival in Matsuyama, we'll take a cable car ride to the magnificent Matsuyama Castle, perched atop a steep hill and offering sweeping views of the city and beyond. Next, we'll visit the serene Ishiteji Temple, a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site, rich in history and spiritual significance. Lunch at a local restaurant is included, providing a chance to savour regional specialities. In the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to experience Dogo Onsen, a historic bathhouse dating back to the 19th century, renowned for its healing waters and traditional architecture.

On Day 8, our adventure takes us to Kotohira, where we�ll visit a significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors. This revered pilgrimage site is set on Mount Zosu and requires a climb of 785 steps to reach. From there, we journey to Takamatsu to experience the beauty of Ritsurin Gardens, considered one of the most exquisite in Japan. We�ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Naruto. Here, we�ll witness the impressive engineering of a striking bridge that stretches across the sea. From a glass-floored walkway, we�ll look down at the powerful whirlpools swirling 45 metres below. Our scenic drive continues over magnificent bridges connecting islands above the sea, leading us to our accommodation in the vibrant city of Kobe.

In Kobe, we will explore the Earthquake Memorial Museum, a poignant tribute to the 1995 earthquake that devastated the city, showcasing its inspiring recovery journey. Our adventure continues to Osaka before ascending to Mount Koya, a revered site of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. This sacred area, renowned for its 120 temples and monasteries, offers a serene atmosphere steeped in spirituality. Here, we will visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a tranquil resting place set amid natural beauty, housing over 200,000 graves. We'll also explore Kongobuji Temple, steeped in history since its construction in 1593.

For the night, we have the unique opportunity to stay in a Buddhist monastery where monks will guide us through a Zen meditation practice known as Ajikan. Our dinner will be a vegetarian meal, providing a perfect prelude to the temple's evening tranquillity. Those interested may join an optional evening religious ceremony before breakfast the next morning.

Please take note of a few logistical details: On certain dates, the visit to the Earthquake Museum might be replaced with either a tour of the Sake Museum or an ascent up Kobe Tower. The monastery accommodations are traditional, featuring simple rooms without private bathrooms and shared facilities, enhancing the authenticity of the experience. During periods of high tourist activity, meditation sessions may not be available, and due to limited accommodation on Mount Koya, we might sometimes stay in nearby hotels, with half board included.

Following a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple, we will head to Kyoto at first light. The day is yours to explore this enchanting city at your own pace. Our guide will be on hand to offer suggestions, ensuring you can fully experience Kyoto's most alluring attractions. With its rich history, exquisite temples, and beautiful gardens, Kyoto promises a memorable day of discovery. Enjoy the freedom to wander and take in the unique charm of this fascinating city.

Following breakfast, our adventure concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of this remarkable journey through Japan.