DURATION: 13 or 15 nights

GROUP SIZE: 10 people maximum

BEST FOR: Cultural immersion

PACE: Active

Explore Japan

Stroll through Tokyo's imperial gardens, explore Senso-ji Temple and sample the freshest seafood at Tsukiji Fish Market. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, visit Nikko and hike through the idyllic villages of Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa. In Kyoto, you can admire the Golden Pavilion and meet friendly deer in Nara Park. Experience the history of Hiroshima and Miyajima, and finish your trip with a visit to bustling Osaka with its hidden treasures and impressive castle.

13-night itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo

Day 3: Tokyo

Day 4: Tokyo 

Day 5: Tokyo ⇄ Mount Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi 

Day 6: Tokyo 

Day 7: Tokyo → Kanazawa

Day 8: Kanazawa → Gokayama → Shirakawa-go → Kanazawa  

Day 9: Kanazawa → Kyoto

Day 10: Kyoto ⇄ Optional Nara

Day 11: Kyoto → Osaka

Day 12: Osaka 

Day 13: Osaka 

Day 14: Departure from Osaka

If you opt for the 15-night itinerary, you’ll enjoy two additional nights in Osaka.

Your guided tour:

To fully experience Japan and its unique customs, traditions, and culture, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide during some of your included activities.

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

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TOKYO

Arrive in Tokyo Airport (HND/NRT), where you can take an optional transfer to takes you comfortably to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Included:

• Night at Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba, YOTEL Tokyo Ginza 4* or The Blossom Hibiya, The Kitano Hotel Tokyo Superior 4*

DAY 2: TOKYO

Discover Tokyo on a guided walking tour, beginning at Tokyo Station and the serene Imperial Palace gardens, before viewing Nijubashi Bridge. Continue to Asakusa to visit Senso-ji Temple and stroll along Nakamise-dori. In the afternoon, explore Meiji Jingu Shrine, the lively Harajuku district, and end in Shibuya to experience the famous Scramble Crossing.

Included:

• 1 x walking tour in Tokyo
• Night at Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba, YOTEL Tokyo Ginza 4* or The Blossom Hibiya, The Kitano Hotel Tokyo Superior 4*

DAY 3: TOKYO

Enjoy a full day at leisure. Tokyo is the world’s most populous metropolitan area, blending ultra-modern innovation with centuries-old tradition.

Included:

• Night at Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba, YOTEL Tokyo Ginza 4* or The Blossom Hibiya, The Kitano Hotel Tokyo Superior 4*

DAY 4: TOKYO

Experience Tokyo’s culinary culture at Tsukiji, enjoying 2–3 tastings of fresh seafood and a delicious lunch of sashimi and local specialities. We suggest taking in panoramic views of the market and city skyline from a hidden observatory deck.

Included:

• 2–3 x tastings and seafood lunch at Tsukiji Fish Market
• Night at Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba, YOTEL Tokyo Ginza 4* or The Blossom Hibiya, The Kitano Hotel Tokyo Superior 4*

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TOKYO

Arrive in Tokyo Airport (HND/NRT), where you can take an optional transfer to takes you comfortably to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Included:

• Night at Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba, YOTEL Tokyo Ginza 4* or The Blossom Hibiya, The Kitano Hotel Tokyo Superior 4*

At each of your stops, you will be staying in thoughtfully selected 4* or Superior 4* hotels.

4* hotels (or similar):

• Tokyo: Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba, YOTEL Tokyo Ginza
• Kanazawa: SOKI Kanazawa, KUMU Kanazawa by The Share Hotels
• Kyoto: Noku Kyoto, The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji
• Osaka: Hotel Cordia Osaka, Hommachi Cross Hotel Osaka

Superior 4* hotels (or similar):

• Tokyo: The Blossom Hibiya, The Kitano Hotel Tokyo
• Kanazawa: Hyatt House Kanazawa, Hakuchoro Hotel Sanraku
• Kyoto: The Thousand Kyoto, Ace Hotel Kyoto
• Osaka: Hotel Royal Classic Osaka, Imperial Hotel Osaka

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

Notes:

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

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.

Explore Osaka’s Shinsekai and Nishinari districts with a local guide, discovering hidden eateries and authentic flavours as you sample iconic dishes like kushikatsu and experience the city’s vibrant food culture and warm local atmosphere.

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.

Kanazawa is a city where Japan’s past remains beautifully preserved. Once a samurai stronghold on the Sea of Japan, it offers a refined mix of traditional arts, Edo-period architecture, and natural elegance. From ancient castles to delicate gold-leaf crafts, this is a place where time-honoured culture still flourishes.

Must-sees:

• Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, known for its seasonal beauty and harmonious design.
• Kanazawa Castle: A restored symbol of samurai power, with impressive gates and panoramic walking trails.
• Higashi Chaya District: Wander lantern-lit alleys lined with tea houses, where geishas still perform today.
  21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art – A modern contrast to tradition, featuring interactive global exhibitions.
• Nagamachi Samurai District: Discover earthen-walled lanes and restored samurai homes filled with historic artefacts.

Culinary culture:

Kanazawa’s cuisine celebrates freshness and artistry. Start at Omicho Market with local sashimi, snow crab and sea urchin. Try kaiseki ryori, a refined multi-course meal, or the local favourite Jibuni, a warming duck stew. For a sweet finish, indulge in gold-leaf ice cream, a nod to the city’s signature craft.

Dive deeper:

Kanazawa is known for its skilled artisans. Visit a gold-leaf workshop, or take part in a traditional tea ceremony in a wooden machiya. Slow your pace and explore by foot or bike, drifting through peaceful neighbourhoods and riverside paths. For a quiet escape, head into the nearby mountains for a soak in a local onsen.

Good to know:
The city is compact and walkable, with loop buses serving key sites. The Hokuriku Shinkansen connects Kanazawa to Tokyo in 2.5 hours. Currency: Japanese yen (JPY).

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.

Osaka is Japan’s electrifying culinary and cultural capital, a city that blends historic charm with relentless modern energy. This spirited city is a whirlwind of neon-lit streets, boisterous food markets, and buzzing izakayas, where the locals welcome you with open arms. 

Don’t miss

• Osaka Castle – A striking remnant of Japan’s past, surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring.
• Shinsekai – A nostalgic throwback to early 20th-century Japan, packed with old-school izakayas and kushikatsu eateries.
• Sumiyoshi Taisha – One of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, known for its unique curved bridge and tranquil setting.
• Universal Studios Japan - A must for theme park lovers, home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World.
• TeamLab Botanical Garden Osaka: An enchanting digital art installation that transforms nature into a dreamlike, glowing wonderland.

Culinary culture

Food isn’t just a passion in Osaka—it’s a way of life. Known as Japan’s Kitchen, the city serves up some of the country’s most iconic dishes. Dive into a plate of flavour-packed okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), savour piping hot takoyaki (octopus balls), or feast on melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef. Street stalls and hidden alleyways overflow with local specialities, while bustling izakayas are the perfect spot to sip sake and toast to good company.

Dive deeper

Beyond the bright lights, Osaka has a deep cultural soul. The National Bunraku Theatre keeps the traditional art of Japanese puppet theatre alive, while the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living lets you step back in time to Edo-period streets. If you’re after a quirky experience, explore America-mura, a hub of vintage fashion and underground music.

Good to know

Osaka is best explored on foot and via its efficient subway system. Spring (March - May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather and stunning foliage. Summers can be humid, while winters are mild.