Touch down in Tokyo, Japan’s dynamic capital, where centuries-old tradition meets cutting-edge modernity. After clearing passport control and collecting your baggage, you’ll be welcomed by an English-speaking assistant who will accompany you on your transfer to the city using Japan’s efficient public transport system.

During the journey, your assistant will provide valuable information to help you settle in, and you’ll have access to telephone support for the duration of your stay. Please note that assistance and transport may be shared with other travellers on the same tour.

Upon arrival at your hotel, rooms will be available from 15:00. The rest of the day is yours to relax and acclimatise — enjoy your first glimpses of Tokyo’s skyline, sample local cuisine, or simply unwind after your long journey.

Overnight: Tokyo

After breakfast at your hotel, set off on a full-day exploration of Tokyo, guided by an expert English-speaking local. This immersive journey offers the perfect introduction to Japan’s vibrant capital — a city where ancient traditions stand alongside gleaming skyscrapers.

Begin your day at the Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the iconic ukiyo-e artist whose vivid prints, including the famous “Great Wave off Kanagawa,” have become global symbols of Japanese art. Learn about his life in Tokyo and his enduring influence on both Eastern and Western art.

Next, step back in time as you explore the historic Asakusa district, home to Senso-ji — Tokyo’s oldest temple, full of rich history and spiritual significance. Wander down Nakamise-dori, a bustling street lined with traditional shops selling local sweets, souvenirs, and crafts — a favourite for families and photographers alike.

Continue to the Imperial Palace, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful walk around the outer gardens and view the elegant Nijubashi Bridge. Then, make your way to the sleek shopping and entertainment hub of Ginza, Tokyo’s answer to Fifth Avenue — perfect for admiring modern Japan’s polished side.

Your day ends with a visit to the panoramic viewing deck of the Bunkyo Civic Center. From here, take in the full scale of the Tokyo skyline — a breathtaking blend of history and modernity stretching as far as the eye can see.

Lunch is included as part of today’s touring experience.

Overnight: Tokyo

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in the heart of Tokyo. Whether you’re keen to explore more of the city’s modern marvels, dive into quirky neighbourhoods like Harajuku or Akihabara, or simply relax at your hotel, the day is open to suit your family’s interests and energy.

Optional Guided Tour: Kamakura & Hakone

For those seeking a deeper cultural experience, join a full-day guided excursion in English to the historic coastal town of Kamakura and the scenic landscapes of Hakone.

Begin your journey with a visit to the awe-inspiring Great Buddha of Kamakura — a towering bronze statue dating back to 1252. Once sheltered within Kotoku-in Temple, it has stood beneath the open sky since a tsunami swept the building away in 1495. Continue to Hasedera Temple, a tranquil haven known for its beautiful gardens filled with hydrangeas and seasonal blooms, as well as its hilltop views over the bay.

In the afternoon, head to the natural wonders of Hakone, a mountainous area famed for its views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting). Here, visit the sacred Hakone Shrine, hidden among towering cedars on the shores of Lake Ashi, and explore the steaming geothermal landscape of Owakudani, known as the “Valley of Hell” — a fascinating place where sulphur vents billow and black eggs boiled in the hot springs are said to extend your life!

Please note: meals are not included. The order of visits may vary depending on local conditions and operational logistics.

Overnight: Tokyo

Important: Your main luggage will be transferred separately to Osaka. Please pack an overnight bag for your stay in Kaga Onsen.

After breakfast, begin your transition from Japan’s modern capital to the serene mountain villages of central Honshu. Your day starts with a transfer on foot to Tokyo Station, where you’ll board the high-speed Shinkansen bullet train for Kanazawa With reserved 2nd-class seats, sit back and enjoy the views of countryside and coast zipping past your window — a favourite moment for many travellers.

Upon arrival in Kanazawa, continue by private coach to one of Japan’s most picturesque and preserved rural areas — Shirakawa-go. This UNESCO World Heritage village is famous for its steeply pitched thatched-roof farmhouses, designed to withstand heavy snowfall and dating back hundreds of years. Wander among the charming homes and scenic mountain backdrop, stepping into a slower, more traditional rhythm of life.

Later in the day, journey onward to Kaga Onsen, one of Japan’s most beloved spa towns, known for its centuries-old hot springs and peaceful atmosphere. Check in at your traditional Japanese ryokan, where hospitality is an art form. Slip into a yukata robe, enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the onsen bath, and gather for a delicious multi-course kaiseki dinner — a true culinary experience showcasing seasonal Japanese flavours.

Tonight, embrace the tranquillity and timeless charm of Japan’s countryside, surrounded by natural beauty and old-world hospitality.

Overnight: Kaga Onsen (Ryokan)

After breakfast at your peaceful ryokan in Kaga Onsen, prepare to step into the elegance and mystery of feudal Japan as you head back to Kanazawa — a city rich in samurai heritage and traditional culture.

Your morning begins with a guided visit to the exquisite Kenroku-en Garden, celebrated as one of the three most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan. With flowing streams, ancient stone lanterns, and seasonal blooms, it's a place where every turn offers a picture-perfect scene. Next, visit the Nomura Samurai Residence, an impeccably preserved family home that showcases the refined architecture, armour, and artefacts of Japan’s warrior class — passed down over 11 generations.

Continue your cultural journey with a stroll through the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District, where narrow lanes are lined with beautifully preserved teahouses. This historic geisha quarter echoes with the grace and artistry of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into Japan’s elegant entertainment traditions.

Later in the afternoon, board an express train to Osaka. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take the evening at your leisure. Dive into Osaka’s vibrant nightlife — whether it’s exploring neon-lit Dotonbori, tasting street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, or enjoying a riverside stroll, this bustling city promises a fun and energetic contrast to your day steeped in tradition.

Overnight: Osaka

Important: Your main luggage will be transferred separately to Kyoto. Please prepare a hand luggage for your overnight stay in Hiroshima.

After breakfast at your hotel in Osaka, set out on a full-day guided journey steeped in history and symbolism. Your first stop is the elegant city of Himeji, home to Japan’s most spectacular castle and a must-see for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Begin with a stroll through the beautifully landscaped Koko-en Garden, a peaceful oasis that perfectly complements the grandeur of the nearby fortress. Then, explore the imposing Himeji Castle, a masterpiece of feudal-era architecture and one of Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With its brilliant white walls and graceful silhouette, it is lovingly nicknamed the "White Heron Castle", evoking the image of a bird in flight. The castle’s defensive design, sweeping views, and elegant interiors offer a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s Sengoku period.

After your castle visit, continue by private coach to Hiroshima, a city that rose from tragedy to become a powerful symbol of peace and resilience. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a delicious included dinner — a time to reflect, relax, and prepare for the deeply moving experiences that await tomorrow.

Overnight: Hiroshima

After breakfast, embark on a moving and unforgettable day exploring the rich spiritual and historical heart of western Japan. Your full-day guided tour begins with a journey by private coach and ferry to Miyajima Island, often called the “island where gods and people live together.”

Here, you'll discover the magnificent Itsukushima Shrine, a sixth-century sanctuary built on stilts above the sea. The shrine’s most iconic feature is its floating torii gate — a striking vermilion structure that appears to rise out of the water at high tide, one of Japan’s most celebrated views. (Please note: restoration work may temporarily cover the torii depending on the timing of your visit.)

After taking in the beauty of this sacred site, enjoy a lunch of okonomiyaki — Hiroshima’s signature savoury pancake — cooked right on the grill at a popular local restaurant. It’s a delicious and interactive meal that brings together fresh ingredients, hearty flavours, and a touch of culinary theatre.

In the afternoon, return to Hiroshima for a powerful and reflective visit to the Peace Memorial Museum and Park. Walk through the poignant exhibits detailing the city’s tragic past and its unwavering message of hope. A stop at the haunting Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few buildings left standing after the 1945 bombing and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a moment for deep contemplation.

Later, board the Shinkansen bullet train for your journey to Kyoto. Upon arrival, transfer on foot to your hotel and settle in for the evening in Japan’s ancient capital — a city where temples, tea houses, and tradition await.

Overnight: Kyoto

After breakfast, embark on a full-day journey into the spiritual heart of Japan, with a guided exploration of Kyoto and Nara — two cities that beautifully preserve the country’s imperial, religious, and artistic legacy.

Your first stop is the shimmering Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion — one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Covered in brilliant gold leaf and reflected in a tranquil mirror pond, this Zen Buddhist temple is a picture of serene perfection and was immortalised in literature by famed author Yukio Mishima. Continue to the nearby Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous Zen rock garden, where abstract stone patterns inspire meditation and quiet contemplation.

In the afternoon, travel to the ancient capital of Nara, where you’ll visit the grand Todai-ji Temple, home to the Daibutsu — the Great Buddha — one of the largest bronze statues in the world. Set within Nara Park, the temple is surrounded by free-roaming sika deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods and a delight to encounter for visitors of all ages.

Before returning to Kyoto, make a final stop at the Fushimi Inari Taisha, famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind their way up the forested hillside. Walking through this seemingly endless corridor of red is one of Japan’s most iconic experiences — both visually striking and spiritually uplifting.

Lunch is included today as part of your cultural exploration.

Overnight: Kyoto

After breakfast, enjoy a full day to experience Kyoto at your own pace. Whether you choose to relax at your hotel, revisit your favourite districts, or dive deeper into this culturally rich city, the day is yours to shape. From elegant teahouses to hidden alleyways, Kyoto rewards slow exploration and quiet discovery.

Optional Guided Tour: Kiyomizu-dera, Gion & Arashiyama

Begin the morning with a guided tour to the majestic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, founded in 798 and rebuilt in the 17th century. Perched dramatically on wooden stilts above a wooded valley, the temple offers panoramic views of Kyoto. Afterwards, wander the charming historical lanes of Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka, two beautifully preserved streets lined with artisan shops and traditional architecture.

Continue into the heart of Gion, Kyoto’s atmospheric geisha district. Here, time seems to stand still among the wooden teahouses and lantern-lit alleyways, where you might even catch a glimpse of a maiko (apprentice geisha) hurrying to her next appointment.

In the afternoon, visit the serene district of Arashiyama, famed for its natural beauty and artistic heritage. Cross the historic Togetsu-kyo Bridge, which has spanned the Katsura River for centuries and inspired countless paintings and poems. Explore the tranquil Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with exquisite Zen gardens set against a mountain backdrop, before stepping into the enchanting Bamboo Grove — a surreal walkway through towering emerald stalks, where light filters in with dreamlike softness.

This optional tour offers a deeper connection to Kyoto’s timeless beauty — from sacred temples to evocative forests — and is perfect for travellers who wish to experience the city’s most treasured corners in a single, unforgettable day.

Overnight: Kyoto

After breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to Japan — a land of elegance, spirit, and unforgettable memories. Take a moment to reflect on the cultural treasures you've explored, the culinary delights you've tasted, and the timeless beauty you've experienced over the past 11 days.

Please note: Hotel check-out time is by 10:00 AM.

Today’s transfer to Kansai International Airport is self-guided, using convenient public transport. Your limousine bus ticket is included, offering a smooth and direct ride to the airport. As you leave the tranquillity of Kyoto behind, enjoy your final glimpses of Japan’s landscapes and cityscapes through the window — a fitting end to a truly enriching journey.

Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey home — or onward to your next destination.

Departure: Kansai Airport, Osaka