DURATION: 8, 10, or 12 nights

BEST FOR: Cultural immersion 

PACE: Relaxed

Explore Japan

From the Meiji Jingu sanctuary in Tokyo to the great torii of Itsukushima on the island of Miyajima, this tour is ideal for discovering the different facets of Japan, between tradition and modernity. After intense days in Tokyo, you'll love relaxing in the hot springs at Hakone, just outside Mount Fuji.

Choose the length of your stay:

8 night tour:

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo 

Day 2: Tokyo

Day 3: Tokyo

Day 4: Tokyo → Kyoto

Days 5 & 6: Kyoto

Day 7: Kyoto → Hiroshima

Day 8: Hiroshima → Tokyo

Day 9: Departure from Tokyo

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TOKYO

Touch down in Tokyo, where silent shrines stand in the shadow of glowing skyscrapers and every alley seems to hum with possibility. After checking into your hotel, take it slow: wander through nearby streets, duck into a tiny ramen shop, and let the city unfold at its own electrifying pace. As evening falls, Tokyo reveals its true character - lantern-lit izakayas, flashing billboards and the hypnotic rhythm of trains threading through the night. 

Included:

• Arrive at Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT)
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Sample your first authentic bowl of ramen 
• Explore the local streets around your hotel 

DAYS 2 & 3: TOKYO

Start in Asakusa, where the incense-scented grounds of Senso-ji temple offer a glimpse of old Edo beneath the modern skyline. Drift through Nakamise shopping street before swapping tradition for the kinetic pulse of Shibuya and Harajuku, Tokyo’s twin capitals of fashion, youth culture and controlled chaos. Pause beneath the towering forest canopy of Meiji Jingu, one of the city’s most serene sanctuaries. End the day strolling Omotesando’s sleek boulevards or lingering over sushi and sake in atmospheric backstreets.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Visit Senso-ji Temple
• Stroll Nakamise Street for traditional snacks, souvenirs and local culture
• Experience the electric atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing and the trendsetting streets of Harajuku

DAY 4: TOKYO → KYOTO

Board the shinkansen on your own and watch the landscape blur from futuristic Tokyo to temple-filled Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital. Settle into your traditional machiya-style house, where tatami floors, sliding paper doors and quiet courtyards create an atmosphere worlds apart from city hotels. Begin gently with a wander through Gion’s lantern-lit lanes or along the Kamogawa River at dusk. Kyoto moves at a slower rhythm - less neon, more nuance - and rewards those willing to linger.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

Suggested:

• Enjoy the iconic Shinkansen journey and keep an eye out for views of Mount Fuji along the way
• Wander through Gion’s historic streets

DAYS 5 & 6: KYOTO

Rise early for the golden glow of Kinkaku-ji before crowds descend, then continue to Ryoan-ji’s legendary rock garden, where simplicity becomes an art form. In eastern Kyoto, the wooden terraces of Kiyomizu-dera stretch above a sea of maple-covered hills and tiled rooftops. Later, dive into the aromas and chatter of Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s lively culinary heart. Included today is a traditional tea ceremony: quiet, meditative and deeply rooted in Japanese ritual.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
• Night at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

Suggested:

• Admire Kyoto’s most celebrated landmarks, from the Golden Pavilion to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• Browse Nishiki Market’s colourful stalls and sample regional delicacies

DAY 7: KYOTO → HIROSHIMA

Travel south to Hiroshima, a city that wears its history with remarkable dignity and hope. Begin at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a profoundly moving reminder of the past and a powerful call for peace. Later, ferry across to Miyajima, where the famous vermilion torii gate appears to float upon the sea at high tide. As evening settles, sit down to Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki - layered, hearty and essential eating in this resilient city.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima

Suggested:

• Reflect at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and gain insight into the city's remarkable story of resilience
• Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and photograph the famous floating torii gate

DAY 8: HIROSHIMA → TOKYO

Return to Tokyo for a final immersion in the capital’s irresistible energy. This is your chance to revisit a favourite neighbourhood, hunt down last-minute souvenirs or simply lose yourself one final time in the maze of backstreets and glowing alleyways. Tokyo always feels unfinished - a city of endless layers, impossible to fully know in a single trip. Raise a final glass beneath the neon glow and savour the feeling of being wonderfully, thrillingly elsewhere.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Revisit your favourite Tokyo neighbourhood or uncover a hidden corner you missed earlier in the trip
• Shop for unique souvenirs, Japanese crafts and last-minute gifts

DAY 9: DEPARTURE FROM TOKYO

Make your way to the airport for your onward journey, carrying memories of temple bells, bullet trains, mountain views and city lights. Japan lingers long after departure: in the scent of cedar incense, the precision of a perfectly prepared meal and the quiet politeness woven into daily life. Few places balance tradition and modernity with such effortless grace. Sayonara - until next time.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Depart from Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT)

Suggested:

• Take one last look at Tokyo’s skyline and reflect on an unforgettable adventure through Japan

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TOKYO

Touch down in Tokyo, where silent shrines stand in the shadow of glowing skyscrapers and every alley seems to hum with possibility. After checking into your hotel, take it slow: wander through nearby streets, duck into a tiny ramen shop, and let the city unfold at its own electrifying pace. As evening falls, Tokyo reveals its true character - lantern-lit izakayas, flashing billboards and the hypnotic rhythm of trains threading through the night. 

Included:

• Arrive at Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT)
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Sample your first authentic bowl of ramen 
• Explore the local streets around your hotel 

DAYS 2 & 3: TOKYO

Start in Asakusa, where the incense-scented grounds of Senso-ji temple offer a glimpse of old Edo beneath the modern skyline. Drift through Nakamise shopping street before swapping tradition for the kinetic pulse of Shibuya and Harajuku, Tokyo’s twin capitals of fashion, youth culture and controlled chaos. Pause beneath the towering forest canopy of Meiji Jingu, one of the city’s most serene sanctuaries. End the day strolling Omotesando’s sleek boulevards or lingering over sushi and sake in atmospheric backstreets.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Visit Senso-ji Temple
• Stroll Nakamise Street for traditional snacks, souvenirs and local culture
• Experience the electric atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing and the trendsetting streets of Harajuku

DAY 4: TOKYO → KYOTO

Board the shinkansen and watch the landscape blur from futuristic Tokyo to temple-filled Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital. Settle into your traditional machiya-style house, where tatami floors, sliding paper doors and quiet courtyards create an atmosphere worlds apart from city hotels. Begin gently with a wander through Gion’s lantern-lit lanes or along the Kamogawa River at dusk. Kyoto moves at a slower rhythm - less neon, more nuance - and rewards those willing to linger.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

Suggested:

• Enjoy the iconic Shinkansen journey and keep an eye out for views of Mount Fuji along the way
• Wander through Gion’s historic streets

DAYS 5-7 KYOTO

Rise early for the golden glow of Kinkaku-ji before crowds descend, then continue to Ryoan-ji’s legendary rock garden, where simplicity becomes an art form. In eastern Kyoto, the wooden terraces of Kiyomizu-dera stretch above a sea of maple-covered hills and tiled rooftops. Later, dive into the aromas and chatter of Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s lively culinary heart. Included today is a traditional tea ceremony: quiet, meditative and deeply rooted in Japanese ritual.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
• Night at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

Suggested:

• Admire Kyoto’s most celebrated landmarks, from the Golden Pavilion to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• Browse Nishiki Market’s colourful stalls and sample regional delicacies

DAY 8: KYOTO → HIROSHIMA

Travel south to Hiroshima, a city that wears its history with remarkable dignity. Begin at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a profoundly moving reminder of the past and a powerful call for peace. Later, ferry across to Miyajima, where the famous vermilion torii gate appears to float upon the sea at high tide. As evening settles, sit down to Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki - layered, hearty and essential eating in this resilient city.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima

Suggested:

• Reflect at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and gain insight into the city's remarkable story of resilience
• Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and photograph the famous floating torii gate

DAY 9: HIROSHIMA → KANAZAWA

Journey north to Kanazawa, often described as a quieter version of Kyoto. Explore Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, where ponds, teahouses and carefully sculpted trees create scenes of perfect balance. Wander through the preserved samurai district of Nagamachi and the atmospheric Higashi Chaya geisha quarter, where wooden teahouses still line stone streets. 

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Hotel Forza Kanazawa

Suggested:

• Stroll through Kenroku-en Garden
• Explore the preserved samurai residences of Nagamachi 

DAY 10: KANAZAWA → TOKYO

Return to Tokyo for a final immersion in the capital’s irresistible energy. This is your chance to revisit a favourite neighbourhood, hunt down last-minute souvenirs or simply lose yourself one final time in the maze of backstreets and glowing alleyways. Tokyo always feels unfinished - a city of endless layers, impossible to fully know in a single trip. Raise a final glass beneath the neon glow and savour the feeling of being wonderfully, thrillingly elsewhere.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Revisit Tokyo’s most memorable districts and hidden backstreets
• Shop for Japanese fashion, souvenirs and gourmet treats to bring home

DAY 11: DEPARTURE FROM TOKYO

Make your way to the airport for your onward journey, carrying memories of temple bells, bullet trains, mountain views and city lights. Japan lingers long after departure: in the scent of cedar incense, the precision of a perfectly prepared meal and the quiet politeness woven into daily life. Few places balance tradition and modernity with such effortless grace. Sayonara - until next time.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Depart from Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT)

Suggested:

• Take one last look at Tokyo’s skyline and reflect on an unforgettable adventure through Japan

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TOKYO

Touch down in Tokyo, where silent shrines stand in the shadow of glowing skyscrapers and every alley seems to hum with possibility. After checking into your hotel, take it slow: wander through nearby streets, duck into a tiny ramen shop, and let the city unfold at its own electrifying pace. As evening falls, Tokyo reveals its true character - lantern-lit izakayas, flashing billboards and the hypnotic rhythm of trains threading through the night. 

Included:

• Arrive at Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT)
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Sample your first authentic bowl of ramen 
• Explore the local streets around your hotel 

DAYS 2 & 3: TOKYO

Start in Asakusa, where the incense-scented grounds of Senso-ji temple offer a glimpse of old Edo beneath the modern skyline. Drift through Nakamise shopping street before swapping tradition for the kinetic pulse of Shibuya and Harajuku, Tokyo’s twin capitals of fashion, youth culture and controlled chaos. Pause beneath the towering forest canopy of Meiji Jingu, one of the city’s most serene sanctuaries. End the day strolling Omotesando’s sleek boulevards or lingering over sushi and sake in atmospheric backstreets.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Visit Senso-ji Temple
• Stroll Nakamise Street for traditional snacks, souvenirs and local culture
• Experience the electric atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing and the trendsetting streets of Harajuku

DAY 4: TOKYO → HAKONE (MOUNT FUJI)

Leave the capital behind and head into the mountain landscapes of Hakone, travelling light while your luggage is transferred ahead to Kyoto. Cruise across Lake Ashi beneath the shadow of Mount Fuji — weather permitting — before ascending by ropeway above the steaming volcanic vents of Owakudani. Visit the open-air sculpture museum, where contemporary art sits against a dramatic backdrop of forests and mountains. Tonight, settle into a traditional ryokan for a kaiseki dinner and a night on tatami mats, one of Japan’s most timeless experiences.

Included:

• Breakfast & dinner included
• Night at Ryokan Aura Tachibana

Suggested:

• Cruise across Lake Ashi and enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji on clear days
• Ride the Hakone Ropeway above the dramatic volcanic landscape of Owakudani Valley

DAY 5: HAKONE (MOUNT FUJI) → KYOTO

Board the shinkansen and watch the landscape blur from futuristic Tokyo to temple-filled Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital. Settle into your traditional machiya-style house, where tatami floors, sliding paper doors and quiet courtyards create an atmosphere worlds apart from city hotels. Begin gently with a wander through Gion’s lantern-lit lanes or along the Kamogawa River at dusk. Kyoto moves at a slower rhythm - less neon, more nuance - and rewards those willing to linger.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

Suggested:

• Enjoy the iconic Shinkansen journey and keep an eye out for views of Mount Fuji along the way
• Wander through Gion’s historic streets

DAYS 6-8 KYOTO

Rise early for the golden glow of Kinkaku-ji before crowds descend, then continue to Ryoan-ji’s legendary rock garden, where simplicity becomes an art form. In eastern Kyoto, the wooden terraces of Kiyomizu-dera stretch above a sea of maple-covered hills and tiled rooftops. Later, dive into the aromas and chatter of Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s lively culinary heart. Included today is a traditional tea ceremony: quiet, meditative and deeply rooted in Japanese ritual.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
• Night at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

Suggested:

• Admire Kyoto’s most celebrated landmarks, from the Golden Pavilion to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• Browse Nishiki Market’s colourful stalls and sample regional delicacies

DAY 9: KYOTO → HIROSHIMA

Travel south to Hiroshima, a city that wears its history with remarkable dignity. Begin at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a profoundly moving reminder of the past and a powerful call for peace. Later, ferry across to Miyajima, where the famous vermilion torii gate appears to float upon the sea at high tide. As evening settles, sit down to Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki - layered, hearty and essential eating in this resilient city.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima

Suggested:

• Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum 
• Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and admire the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine
• Sample Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a delicious local speciality 

DAY 10: HIROSHIMA → KANAZAWA

Journey north to Kanazawa, often described as a quieter version of Kyoto. Explore Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, where ponds, teahouses and carefully sculpted trees create scenes of perfect balance. Wander through the preserved samurai district of Nagamachi and the atmospheric Higashi Chaya geisha quarter, where wooden teahouses still line stone streets. 

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Hotel Forza Kanazawa

Suggested:

• Stroll through Kenroku-en Garden
• Explore the preserved samurai residences of Nagamachi 

DAY 11: KANAZAWA

Spend a second day exploring Kanazawa at your own pace. Wander through the Higashi Chaya district, where historic wooden teahouses line stone-paved streets once frequented by geisha. Contrast tradition with a visit to the striking 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, where bold modern design sits comfortably beside centuries-old culture.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at Hotel Forza Kanazawa

DAY 12: KANAZAWA → TOKYO

Return to Tokyo for a final immersion in the capital’s irresistible energy. This is your chance to revisit a favourite neighbourhood, hunt down last-minute souvenirs or simply lose yourself one final time in the maze of backstreets and glowing alleyways. Tokyo always feels unfinished - a city of endless layers, impossible to fully know in a single trip. Raise a final glass beneath the neon glow and savour the feeling of being wonderfully, thrillingly elsewhere.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Night at OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 

Suggested:

• Revisit Tokyo’s most memorable districts and hidden backstreets
• Shop for Japanese fashion, souvenirs and gourmet treats to bring home

DAY 13: DEPARTURE FROM TOKYO

Make your way to the airport for your onward journey, carrying memories of temple bells, bullet trains, mountain views and city lights. Japan lingers long after departure: in the scent of cedar incense, the precision of a perfectly prepared meal and the quiet politeness woven into daily life. Few places balance tradition and modernity with such effortless grace. Sayonara - until next time.

Included:

• Breakfast included
• Depart from Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT)

Suggested:

• Take one last look at Tokyo’s skyline and reflect on an unforgettable adventure through Japan

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

Your hotels:

4* hotels:

• Tokyo: OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda 
• Hakone / Mont Fuji: Ryokan Aura Tachibana*
• Kyoto: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
• Hiroshima: Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima
• Kanazawa: Hotel Forza Kanazawa

‘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.

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, usually featuring:

• Tatami-matted rooms (woven straw floors)
• Futon bedding, laid out on the floor each night
• Sliding paper doors (shoji) and minimalist design
• Shared bathrooms and baths (often hot springs, or onsen)
• A strong emphasis on omotenashi, the art of Japanese hospitality’

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

*Please note: In the ryokan, guests sleep on comfortable futons placed on the tatami. As is customary in Japanese temple hotels, the onsen bathroom is shared (not mixed). Toilets and washbasins are usually in the room, but are not guaranteed. Japanese bathroom in the room is an optional extra at checkout. 

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.

Leave the city behind on this half-day hike through untouched mountain landscapes, guided by a local expert. Discover Buddhist temples, clear mountain streams, and secluded waterfalls, all just a short journey from Kyoto.

Step into one of the world’s most remarkable digital art experiences. teamLab Borderless is a vast, immersive space where light, sound and motion dissolve the boundaries between artwork and visitor. Wander through ever-changing installations that create a seamless blend of technology and imagination, capturing the creative energy of modern Tokyo. It is a truly unique experience, unlike anything else in the world.

In Japan, chopsticks are far more than simple utensils: they reflect centuries of craftsmanship, tradition and everyday ritual. During this intimate hands-on workshop, learn the art of creating your own pair under the guidance of a skilled local artisan. Shape, polish and personalise a meaningful keepsake to take home from Kyoto, while enjoying a quiet introduction to the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship.

Enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your journey in Japan with a Pocket WiFi (can link up to 5 devices simultaneously), providing reliable, high-speed internet access wherever you travel.

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.

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.

Hiroshima, Japan, is a city that harmonises remembrance and renewal, offering visitors both profound history and vibrant modern culture. Known worldwide for its resilience, Hiroshima is a poignant yet uplifting destination where the past and present coexist amid rivers, parks, and lively streets.

Must-sees / Must-do:

• Peace Memorial Park & Museum: Commemorating the 1945 atomic bombing, this moving site includes the A-Bomb Dome, memorials, and exhibits documenting the city’s history and commitment to peace.
• Hiroshima Castle: A beautifully reconstructed castle surrounded by moats and cherry trees, showcasing samurai heritage and local history.
• Shukkeien Garden: Traditional Japanese garden with winding paths, tea houses, and tranquil ponds, perfect for a reflective stroll.
• Miyajima Island & Itsukushima Shrine: A short ferry ride away, this sacred island features the iconic “floating” torii gate and scenic hiking trails.
• Okonomimura: A multi-level food haven specialising in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a layered savoury pancake that’s a local must-try.

Culinary culture:

Hiroshima is famous for its okonomiyaki, oysters from the Seto Inland Sea, and fresh seafood. Sample street snacks near Hondori Street or indulge in traditional Japanese sweets at local tea houses.

Dive deeper:

Explore lesser-known neighbourhoods like Mitaki, with its temple clusters and moss-covered stone steps. Take a guided cycling tour along rivers and canals to witness modern Hiroshima life juxtaposed with historic landmarks. A short trip inland leads to rural villages and sake breweries.

Good to know:

Hiroshima is accessible via Shinkansen from Osaka or Tokyo. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather, perfect for walking tours. English signage is common, but learning a few Japanese phrases enhances the experience. The city is compact and walkable, with efficient tram and ferry connections to nearby islands.

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).