Experience two strikingly different faces of Asia in one extraordinary journey. Your adventure begins in Japan, where high-speed trains, neon-lit districts and centuries-old temples create an electrifying blend of innovation and heritage that never fails to captivate.

Then exchange the pulse of dynamic cities for the serene luxury of the Maldives, in the Raa Atoll, a castaway paradise of powder-soft sands, crystalline lagoons and overwater sanctuaries, where turquoise horizons and indulgent seclusion provide a blissful and unforgettable finale.

Our offers:

BEST FOR: Cultural immersion

PACE: Relaxed

Welcome to Japan

Immerse yourself in the captivating contrasts of Japan, beginning with several days in electrifying Tokyo, where futuristic skylines, vibrant districts and centuries-old shrines coexist in perfect harmony. Your journey then slows amid the serene landscapes of Hakone, with views of majestic Mount Fuji, before concluding in timeless Kyoto, where temples, geisha traditions and tranquil gardens offer an elegant farewell to this unforgettable adventure.

9-night itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo

Day 3: Tokyo

Day 4: Tokyo

Day 5: Tokyo

Day 6: Tokyo → Hakone (Mount Fuji)

Day 7: Hakone (Mount Fuji) → Kyoto

Day 8: Kyoto

Day 9: Kyoto

Day 10: Kyoto

Day 11: Departure from Kyoto

Whether strolling through quiet temple gardens or buzzing local markets, this self-guided tour of Japan gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but with the ease of every hotel and transfer organised in advance. ​

Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TOKYO

Arrive at Tokyo via Narita or Haneda Airport (NRT/HND), where our friendly airport assistant will meet you at customs to provide your travel documents and a Pocket WiFi device. Enjoy a comfortable shuttle transfer to your hotel, with check-in available from 3 pm, and begin your Japanese adventure at your own pace.

Included:

• Shared transfer from Narita or Haneda Airport (NRT/HND) to your hotel in Tokyo
• Night at Gracery Tamachi 3* or Metropolitan Ikebukuro 4*

Suggestions:

• A gentle neighbourhood stroll
• Enjoy a warm bowl of ramen in a local eatery

DAY 2: TOKYO

We recommend starting your Tokyo adventure with a full guided day, exploring the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, historic temples, and bustling markets — a perfect introduction to the capital’s unique energy. The remainder of the day is at leisure

Included:

• 1 x guided day in Tokyo (can be enjoyed at any point during your stay in Tokyo)
• Night at Gracery Tamachi 3* or Metropolitan Ikebukuro 4*

Suggestions:

• Stroll through the Asakusa district and visit Senso-ji Temple
• Explore Shibuya and Shinjuku districts
• Try fresh sushi at Sushi Dai

DAY 3: TOKYO

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Lose yourself in bustling streets, discover hidden temples tucked between skyscrapers, and explore quirky cafés and boutique shops.

Included:

• Night at Gracery Tamachi 3* or Metropolitan Ikebukuro 4*

Suggestions:

• Wander the gardens of the Imperial Palace
• Explore Harajuku, the avant-garde district
• Enjoy a casual lunch of yakitori

DAY 6: TOKYO → HAKONE (MOUNT FUJI)

Travel from Tokyo to Hakone (approximately 2 hours) with ease, using your included Hakone Free Pass, which covers all buses, trains, and cable cars in the Hakone–Mount Fuji area. Once in Hakone, enjoy leisure time to explore at your own pace before settling into your ryokan for a traditional Japanese dinner.

Included:

• Hakone Free Pass
• Dinner included
• Night at Ichinoyu Shinkan 3* or Yutowa 4*

Suggestions:

• Cruise across Lake Ashi
• Visit Hakone-jinja Shrine
• Savour black eggs (Kuro-Tamago) at Owakudani

DAY 7: HAKONE (MOUNT FUJI) → KYOTO

After a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan, travel to Kyoto aboard the Shinkansen (approx. 2 ½ hours), enjoying the comfort and speed of Japan’s iconic bullet train. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to relax.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Shinkansen tickets from Hakone → Kyoto
• Night at Vessel Kyoto Gojo 3* or Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu 4*

Suggestions:

• Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• Sample Kyoto-style kaiseki at a nearby traditional restaurant

DAY 8: KYOTO

Today is your first full day in Kyoto, at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. For a deeper experience, we recommend taking a guided day in Kyoto, discovering its historic temples, traditional streets, and cultural highlights with an expert local guide.

Included:

• 1 x guided day in Kyoto (can be enjoyed at any point during your stay in Tokyo)
• Night at Vessel Kyoto Gojo 3* or Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu 4*

Suggestions:

• Explore Gion by night (available at the next step of the booking process at an additional cost)
• Discover the iconic Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)
• Savour yudofu – a comforting Kyoto speciality of simmered tofu

At each of your stops, you will be staying in Standard Rooms in thoughtfully selected hotels.

3* hotels (or similar):

• Tokyo: Gracery Tamachi 
• Hakone: Ichinoyu Shinkan 
• Kyoto: Vessel Kyoto Gojo 

4* hotels (or similar):

• Tokyo: Metropolitan Ikebukuro 
• Hakone: Yutowa 
• Kyoto: Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu 

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards $apply

Your stay also includes an authentic experience rooted in local traditions, with a stay in a private room in a tranquil ryokan in Hakone, near Mount Fuji:

Experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto, where every gesture is an art. You will savour green tea and traditional sweets while immersing yourself in Japanese culture and Zen philosophy.

Explore Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan, filled with majestic temples, stunning gardens, and ancient traditions. Book a private guided tour to explore must-see sites and hidden gems, with an itinerary tailored to your preferences.

Discover Tokyo on a private guided tour, from the Imperial Palace Gardens to the manga district, passing by centuries-old temples and trendy neighbourhoods. Your personal guide will tailor the tour to your preferences and be available to answer all your questions throughout the day.

Discover Tokyo Bay during a 10-minute panoramic flight: a unique experience that allows you to admire the Japanese capital from the sky in just a few moments.

Fly over Tokyo at sunset and discover the illuminated city and its iconic districts such as Shinjuku, Shibuya and Asakusa during an unforgettable panoramic flight.

The most breathtaking helicopter flight in Tokyo: fly over the Japanese capital, Mount Fuji, Yokohama and Hakone for an exceptional aerial experience.

Add an unlimited mobile data plan to stay connected with complete freedom, without any risk of exceeding your allowance. Activate your eSIM and enjoy continuous connectivity wherever you go: share the internet with your loved ones, find the best places around you, use your GPS without stress and enjoy your favourite apps to the full, without worrying about your usage.

Todai-ji, the great Buddha, Nara Park and its deer, Nara is the perfect place for any traveller keen on traditional Japanese culture and fond of tranquillity and serenity.

Like all traditional accommodations in Japan, the ryokan proposed in Hakone Mount Fuji has a collective Japanese bath. 

Discover the Geisha district as well as cultural treasures. Some of Kyoto city's most beautiful areas only truly reveal their beauty at nightfall.

Upgrade to bed and breakfast and begin each morning in Tokyo and Kyoto with a generous spread of fresh, locally inspired dishes, setting the perfect tone for a day of discovery and relaxation.

Nestled in the untouched Raa Atoll of the Maldives, Brennia Kottefaru 5* opened its shores in 2020 as a serene island sanctuary. Set on a natural island surrounded by one of the largest beaches in the Maldives, the resort offers uninterrupted views of turquoise lagoons and vibrant coral reefs, with the renowned Kottefaru Thila dive site just minutes away, a hotspot for manta sightings and rich marine life.

Designed to complement its spectacular setting, Brennia combines authentic Maldivian hospitality with contemporary elegance, warm local spirit and abundant opportunities for wellness, dining, and ocean‑based exploration.

Opening onto the island’s white sand beach, guests in a Beach Villa can walk right onto the beach from their room or just enjoy a view of it from the furnished terrace. Decorated in amber hues with traditional Maldivian design elements, the Beach Villa is the perfect accommodation to revel in the beauty of the island and its stunning beach. 

Perched above the shimmering lagoon, the Deluxe Water Pool Villa offers a private sanctuary of elegance and tranquillity. Step onto your expansive deck, where a private infinity pool merges seamlessly with the endless blue of the ocean.

Inside, natural wood tones and soft textiles create a soothing retreat, while floor-to-ceiling windows invite the breathtaking Maldivian views. Enjoy direct lagoon access for a refreshing dip or unwind under the stars on your sun loungers.

This is an all inclusive stay. Your breakfast, lunch, and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant, with a selection of snacks and drinks. Please see the ‘details’ tab for more information.

Stretch out on the Maldives’ largest natural beach or explore vibrant coral gardens by snorkel or kayak, with jet skis, windsurfing and catamaran sailing adding adventure to your days. World‑class diving is on offer through the resort’s PADI 5‑star dive centre, perfect for discovering manta rays and rich marine life.

Wellness takes centre stage at the country’s biggest spa, where tailored treatments and yoga sessions help you unwind, while the fully equipped gym and tennis courts keep you active. Curated excursions showcase the beauty beyond the island, and leisure facilities cater to families and couples alike.

Discover the basics of scuba diving during an introductory session supervised by an instructor, followed by an exploration of a colourful reef at a depth of up to 12 metres.

Obtain your first PADI diving certification during a comprehensive course combining online theory, lagoon training, and sea dives up to 12 metres in the crystal-clear waters of Brennia.

Entdecken Sie die wunderschöne Unterwasserwelt der Malediven bei vier begleiteten Tauchgängen rund um Brennia und erleben Sie farbenprächtige Riffe und eine außergewöhnliche Unterwasserwelt.

Tokyo, a dynamic and ever-evolving metropolis, seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern. Known for its neon-lit streets, towering skyscrapers, and futuristic technology, the city also offers serene gardens, traditional temples, and sacred Shinto shrines. Beneath the fast-paced exterior, Tokyo remains rooted in its rich cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore its unique contrasts.

Must-sees:

• Imperial Palace: A peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, offering a glimpse into Japan’s imperial history.
• Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, located in the vibrant Asakusa district.
• Hamarikyu Gardens: A tranquil escape, showcasing beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional tea houses.

Culinary culture:

Tokyo’s food scene is as diverse as its cultural landscape. From high-end sushi restaurants to humble izakayas and food stalls, the city offers something for every palate. Indulge in world-class sushi at the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market, savour traditional ramen in local noodle shops, or sample delicious tempura and yakitori. The city’s culinary offerings reflect its blend of both contemporary and age-old traditions, with flavours that range from delicate to bold.

Dive deeper:

Explore the lesser-known gems of Tokyo, such as the Yanaka District, where traditional wooden houses and local artisans offer an authentic view of old Tokyo. Wander through the Nezu Shrine, a serene spot famous for its torii gates, or visit Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment hub, to witness the city's innovative spirit in action. Tokyo’s hidden treasures offer a deeper connection to the cultural roots of Japan.

Good to know:

Tokyo’s public transport system is efficient and easy to navigate, making it ideal for exploration. Japan's capital city is renowned for its neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct charm. For example, Shibuya is known for its youthful energy and fashion scene, while Asakusa offers a more traditional experience with its iconic Senso-ji Temple and historic shopping streets. Visitors should also explore Odaiba, a futuristic waterfront district featuring high-tech shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and stunning views of Tokyo Bay. Don’t miss the quirkily themed cafes, such as the animal cafes or robot-themed establishments, which offer an intriguing and distinctly Tokyo experience.

Nestled within the forested hills of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is Japan’s quintessential escape into nature, art, and tradition. Just a short journey from Tokyo, it offers a soothing contrast to the capital’s energy, with volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and centuries-old onsen culture—all framed, on clear days, by iconic Mount Fuji.

Must-sees / Must-do:

• Lake Ashi (Ashinoko): Cruise across this tranquil crater lake, where torii gates rise from the water and Mount Fuji often appears dramatically in the distance.
• Hakone Ropeway: Glide above steaming valleys and rugged terrain for panoramic views of the volcanic landscape.
• Owakudani Valley: A dramatic geothermal area where sulphur vents hiss from the earth; try the famous black eggs said to add years to your life.
• Hakone Open-Air Museum: A unique fusion of modern art and nature, featuring large-scale sculptures set against mountain scenery.
• Hakone Shrine: Hidden among towering cedar trees, this atmospheric Shinto shrine is one of the region’s most photogenic spots.

Culinary culture:

Hakone’s cuisine is simple and seasonal. Expect fresh mountain vegetables, handmade soba noodles, and locally produced tofu, often enjoyed in traditional ryokan. Many inns serve beautifully presented kaiseki dinners, showcasing regional flavours and impeccable craftsmanship.

Dive deeper:

Hakone is best experienced slowly. Spend the night in a ryokan, sleep on futons, and unwind in natural hot spring baths, some open-air and overlooking forests or rivers. Follow the historic Old Tōkaidō Road, once travelled by samurai and merchants, where moss-covered stone paths whisper stories of Japan’s past.

Good to know:

Hakone is easy to reach from Tokyo by train and is well connected by local transport loops. Weather can change quickly, especially around Mount Fuji—clear mornings offer the best views. Tattoos may be restricted in some onsen, so check in advance or seek tattoo-friendly baths.

Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan, offers an authentic glimpse into the country's rich cultural past. Steeped in history, it is a city where tranquil gardens, beautiful temples, and vibrant shrines coexist with the timeless beauty of well-preserved architecture. While much of Japan has embraced modernity, Kyoto stands as a guardian of the old ways, preserving its heritage through its quiet charm.

Must-sees:

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A breathtaking Zen Buddhist temple, surrounded by an idyllic garden and reflecting pond.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates leading up Mount Inari.
• Gion District: A traditional geisha district, where visitors can catch glimpses of these iconic figures in their ceremonial attire.

Culinary culture:

Kyoto’s culinary landscape reflects its deep cultural roots. The city is renowned for kaiseki, a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. Be sure to sample yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a temple restaurant or savour matcha-based desserts in one of the many tea houses that dot the city. Kyoto’s kyo-yasai (local vegetables) are a must-try, often found in dishes prepared with techniques passed down through generations.

Dive deeper:

For a more authentic Kyoto experience, visit the Nishijin district, a charming area where traditional weaving techniques are still practised. Walk through the shōtengai (shopping streets), where small speciality shops continue to thrive, selling everything from tofu to pickles, often run by families that have passed down their trades for centuries. These glimpses into everyday Kyoto life are essential for understanding the enduring spirit of the city.

Good to know:

Kyoto is known for its traditional tea ceremonies, which can be experienced at various tea houses throughout the city. Participating in one is an opportunity to witness the artistry and deep cultural significance of tea preparation, where every movement is purposeful and steeped in centuries-old tradition. Additionally, Kyoto is home to kimono rental shops, where visitors can dress in the city’s iconic garments and stroll through historic districts like Gion, creating an unforgettable experience that blends past and present.

Raa Atoll, a hidden gem in the northern Maldives, stands out for its rare blend of untouched beauty and exclusive experiences. Less visited than other northern atolls, it offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a sense of seclusion. Its islands are ideal for luxury stays, while the surrounding waters provide excellent snorkelling, diving, and island-hopping adventures

Must-sees/Do:

• Private Sandbanks: Take a speedboat or dhoni to pristine, isolated sandbanks for sunbathing, swimming, and unforgettable sunsets.
• Overwater Dining & Night Fishing: Enjoy fresh seafood under the stars, or try night fishing with local fishermen for a hands-on Maldivian experience.
• Island Hopping Adventure: Discover multiple uninhabited islands and deserted sandbanks in a single day; swim in turquoise lagoons and picnic on powdery white beaches.

Culinary culture:

Raa Atoll resorts specialise in fresh seafood and tropical flavours. Relish grilled lobster, Maldivian tuna salad, coconut-infused curries, or indulge in bespoke private dining on a deserted beach.

Dive deeper:

Kayak through hidden lagoons, snorkel along untouched reefs, or take a seaplane to neighbouring atolls for a full-day island-hopping adventure. Marine life lovers can join guided night snorkelling trips to witness glowing bioluminescent plankton.

Good to know:

Accessible via seaplane or domestic flight from Malé, Raa Atoll offers an off-the-beaten-path Maldivian escape where luxury, serenity, and natural beauty come together seamlessly.