Experience the soul of Japan on a 14-night journey through Tokyo’s futuristic skyline, Kyoto’s timeless temples, and Osaka’s lively food scene. From cherry blossoms to neon-lit alleys, this unforgettable tour blends ancient traditions with modern marvels, offering a rich immersion into Japan’s unique harmony of past and present.

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.

Your itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo - Culinary tour (small group)

Days 3 & 4: Tokyo

Day 5: Tokyo - Kanazawa

Day 6: Kanazawa

Day 7: Kanazawa - Kyoto

Day 8: Kyoto - Sky hop bus Kyoto

Day 9: Kyoto

Day 10: Kyoto - Hiroshima

Day 11: Hiroshima - Hiroshima walking tour 

Day 12: Hiroshima - Osaka

Day 13: Osaka (combined e-pass and metro pass)

Day 14: Osaka

Day 15: Departure

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

Tokyo is a dynamic fusion of cutting-edge innovation and timeless tradition. Explore buzzing districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, unwind in tranquil spots like Meiji Shrine and Shinjuku Gyoen, and savour world-class cuisine from Michelin stars to ramen joints. Dive into its rich art scene at museums like the Tokyo National and Mori Museum of Futuristic Art.

Must-sees:

• The Asakusa district and Senso-ji temple
• Tokyo Skytree, 634 metres high, and the Tokyo Tower, symbol of the city
• Ueno Park and its many museums
• The Shibuya and Shinjuku districts
• Hamarikyu, the Japanese garden in the middle of Tokyo's blocks of flats
• The gardens of the Imperial Palace
• The Meiji-jingu Shrine
• Ginza, Tokyo's chic district
• Harajuku, the avant-garde district

Situated between the Sea of Japan and the Japanese Alps, Kanazawa is a culturally rich town on Japan's west coast, known for its magnificent Kenrokuen Garden, one of the country's finest landscaped parks. Its well-preserved samurai and geisha quarters, such as Nagamachi and Higashi Chaya, offer a fascinating insight into traditional Japanese life. In addition, visitors can enjoy local art, such as Kanazawa's famous gold leaf, and the city's sophisticated cuisine, which features freshly caught seafood and artisanal dishes.

Must-sees:

• Kenroku-en, Kanazawa's magnificent Japanese garden
• Nagamachi, the samurai quarter and the former Nomura residence
• Higashiyama, one of the city's three geisha districts
• The Museum of Contemporary Art and its open-air gallery
• Omicho, the Sea of Japan fish market

Once Japan’s imperial capital, Kyoto is a timeless city where ancient temples, tranquil gardens, and historic districts meet. Marvel at iconic sites like the Golden Pavilion, Ryoan-ji’s rock garden, and the red torii of Fushimi Inari. Stroll through Gion’s lantern-lit streets, explore Arashiyama’s bamboo groves, and savor traditional kaiseki cuisine and tea ceremonies. Kyoto captures the cultural heart of Japan in every detail.

Must-sees:

• Kinkakuji (golden pavilion)
• The Gion district and the Philosopher's Path
• The Ryoanji Zen Garden, a famous dry landscape
• Kiyomizu-dera, a thousand-year-old temple overlooking the city
• The Nishiki market, where you can find ingredients typical of Kyoto cuisine
• Nijo Castle and its ‘nightingale’ parquet floors
• The bamboo forest of Arashiyama, west of Kyoto
• The Ginkaku-ji temple or ‘silver pavilion’. This pavilion is a national heritage site. The garden is a fine example of karesansui (stone garden)
• Teramachi, Kyoto's main street. Around 400 metres away, you'll find around a hundred shops and restaurants serving Kansai specialities

Hiroshima, shaped by history and hope, stands as a powerful symbol of peace. Visit the Peace Park, Museum, and Memorial to reflect on its past, then experience the city’s vibrant present through lively streets, local okonomiyaki, and a thriving arts scene. Nearby, the island of Miyajima offers serenity and the iconic floating torii gate—an inspiring contrast to Hiroshima’s poignant resilience.

Must-sees:

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
• The peace monuments (the dome, the memorial to young Sadako Sasaki, one of the many victims of radiation)
• The famous Hiroshima Castle
• The Itsukushima-jinja shrine and its large, world-famous and much-photographed torii
• Folklore Museum (Egami House)
• Senjôkaku Shinto temple and pagoda

Osaka, Japan’s kitchen and a city bursting with character, blends down-to-earth charm with urban energy. Known for its street food—especially takoyaki and okonomiyaki—Osaka invites you to indulge in its lively culinary culture. Wander through the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori, explore historic Osaka Castle, or dive into local life in the retro Shinsekai district. With a fun-loving spirit, a buzzing nightlife, and warm, welcoming locals, Osaka offers a playful and flavorful side of Japan that’s impossible to forget.

Must-sees:

• The lively districts of Dotonbori, Namba and Shinsaibashi
• The electronic district of Denden-machi
• Osaka's medieval castle and cherry blossom parks.
• The largest aquarium in Japan
• The unique and futuristic Umeda Sky Building
• Spa World, the largest thermal baths in the world
• The Universal Studios theme park
• Minoh Falls, for an immersion in Japanese nature.
• Hiroshima & Miyajima can also be visited on a day trip from Osaka

At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully selected 3* and 4* hotels.

Your accommodation:

3* hotels

Tokyo: Comfort ERA Tokyo Higashi Kanda 3* (or similar)

Kanazawa: Resol Trinity Kanazawa 3* (or similar)

Kyoto: Comfort ERA Kyoto Toji 3* (or similar)

Hiroshima: Vista Hiroshima 3* (or similar)

Osaka: Garner Osaka Honmachi Kita Semba by IHG 3* (or similar)

4* hotels

Tokyo: Mystays Premier Hamamatsucho 4* (or similar)

Kanazawa: Tokyu Stay Kanazawa 4* (or similar)

Kyoto: Grand Bach Kyoto Select 4* (or similar)

Hiroshima: Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima (or similar)

Osaka: Mystays Premier Dojima 4* (or similar)

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

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.

Enjoy a full day in Hakone, departing from Tokyo, and take a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi as well as a visit to Ōwakudani.

Visit Omicho Market and the Higashi Chaya geisha district, and savour traditional Kanazawa dishes for a truly unique culinary experience.

Japan, a land where time-honoured traditions converge with modern marvels, offers a compelling blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto, each moment in Japan feels like an exploration of history and innovation. Whether wandering through ancient shrines or hiking the serene trails of Mount Fuji, this country will captivate every type of traveller.

Must-sees:

• Explore the tranquil Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo, a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city.
• Discover the timeless beauty of the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto, reflecting its golden splendour on the surrounding pond.
• Experience the serene atmosphere of Nara Park, where wild deer roam freely beside historic temples.

Culinary culture:

Japan's culinary culture is a feast for the senses, offering an unparalleled array of flavours and textures. Beyond sushi and sashimi, indulge in kaiseki (traditional multi-course dining), savour the delicate richness of ramen from regional varieties, and relish the delicate art of tempura. Japan's culinary creativity extends to street food such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), offering an insight into local life. Be sure to taste matcha in all its forms, from tea ceremonies to modern desserts.

Dive deeper:

For those seeking to uncover Japan's lesser-known cultural gems, explore the peaceful Oniishi Muddy Hell in Beppu or visit the sacred Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO site brimming with unspoiled nature. Wander through the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka for a magical journey into Japan’s celebrated animation culture, or spend time in Kanazawa, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design.

Good to know:

Japan’s currency is the yen (¥). For those visiting in spring (March to May), the cherry blossoms are a must-see, while autumn (September to November) offers spectacular foliage. Public transport is efficient and reliable, with the Shinkansen (bullet train) being a convenient option for travel between cities.