Jan
min : 1°C
max : 10°C
We Love —
- Catching your reflection in the still waters of Lake Ashi, while torii gates and distant peaks create a picture-perfect moment worthy of a Japanese print.
- Tracing Kyoto’s quiet alleyways on a small-group walking tour, discovering ancient temples and hidden gardens.
- Gliding effortlessly through Japan aboard the Shinkansen, where scenic views blur past your window and efficiency becomes an experience in itself.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your itinerary in brief —
This unforgettable 16-night tour of Japan takes you from ultra-modern Tokyo to historic Kyoto, the tranquil Japanese Alps and bustling Osaka.
You will discover world-famous temples, sacred shrines, ultra-modern cityscapes and traditional markets. Highlights include a day trip to the legendary Mount Fuji, a boat trip on picturesque Lake Ashi, a long hike at Fushimi Inari and a visit to the impressive Hiroshima Peace Memorial. You will travel comfortably between cities by high-speed train and stay in comfortable hotels with plenty of freedom to explore on your own.
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 2-4: Tokyo
Day 5: Tokyo – Hakone
Day 6: Hakone – Bullet train to Kanazawa
Day 7: Kanazawa
Day 8: Kanazawa – Bullet train to Kyoto
Day 9–10: Kyoto
Day 11: Kyoto – Bullet train to Hiroshima
Day 12: Hiroshima
Day 13: Hiroshima – Bullet train to Osaka
Day 14–15: Osaka
Day 16: Departure from Osaka
Your itinerary in detail —
Days 1 to 4
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Upon arrival in Japan's bustling capital, you will be greeted by an impressive skyline of neon lights, modern skyscrapers and historic temples.
- Your first encounter with Tokyo will immediately give you a taste of the unique blend of tradition and innovation that you will experience on this trip.
Overnight stay in Tokyo.
Day 2: Tokyo
- Today, you will discover the highlights of Tokyo on a comfortable bus tour at 2pm, from Tokyo Station Marunouchi South Exit.
- You will start at the Imperial Palace, where you can see the famous Nijubashi Bridge and its imposing stone walls.
- Next, you will visit the famous Asakusa Kannon Temple (Senso-ji) and stroll through the bustling Nakamise shopping street, which is full of souvenirs and local delicacies.
- On the way there, you will pass the Kabukiza Theatre and the upscale Ginza shopping district before the tour ends at Tokyo Tower.
- From the 150-metre-high observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city - and on clear days, even a view of Mount Fuji.
- The tour ends at Tokyo Station at around 6pm.
Half-day bus tour in Tokyo included.
Overnight stay in Tokyo.
Day 3: Tokyo
- Today you have plenty of time to explore Tokyo on your own. We suggest:
- Visiting futuristic Akihabara for electronics and anime.
- Discovering the peaceful atmosphere of Ueno Park with its museums and temples.
- Strolling past Meiji Shrine in the green heart of Shibuya.
- Tokyo has something for everyone: historic temples, modern architecture, bustling markets and peaceful parks.
Overnight stay in Tokyo.
Day 4: Tokyo
- Another day to explore the city. We recommend:
- Taking a day trip to nearby towns such as Nikko or Kamakura.
- Exploring other Tokyo neighbourhoods such as trendy Harajuku, business-friendly Shinjuku or cultural Yanaka.
- Ending the day with conveyor belt sushi or dinner with a view of the city.
Overnight stay in Tokyo.
Read more
Days 5 to 7
Day 5: Tokyo – Hakone
- Today, you will leave the city behind for a day full of nature and adventure.
- At 8.30am, from Shinjuku, take the Fuji Subaru Line to Mount Fuji 5th Station (2,300 m), the highest point accessible by road.
- Afterwards, enjoy a unique lunch at a ninja-themed restaurant.
- In Ōwakudani, a volcanic valley, you can try the famous black eggs.
- Take the cable car up over the mountain landscape and enjoy spectacular views.
- The day ends with a boat trip on the tranquil Lake Ashi.
Full-day bus tour in Mount Fuji & Hakone included.
Overnight stay in Hakone.
*Note: In case of poor weather or closures, alternative locations may be visited, such as the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, Lake Kawaguchi Cruise, Hakone Shrine, or others.
Day 6: Hakone – Bullet train to Kanazawa
- Today, take the bullet train (also known as the Shinkansen) to historic Kanazawa, a city full of culture, art and classical beauty.
- The rest of the day is yours to explore the city.
- Perhaps visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art or take a stroll through the old samurai district?
Overnight stay in Kanazawa.
Day 7: Kanazawa
- Today, we recommend:
- Visiting Kenrokuen, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens, featuring traditional landscape art, ponds and tea houses.
- Visiting the neighbouring Kanazawa Castle.
- Exploring the Museum of Modern Art further.
- Strolling through markets and historic districts.
- Kanazawa is perfect for anyone who loves tranquillity, aesthetics and craftsmanship.
Overnight stay in Kanazawa.
Days 8 to 10
Day 8: Kanazawa – Bullet train to Kyoto
- The bullet train/Shinkansen will take you to Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital. In the afternoon, you can already get to know this atmospheric city.
- We suggest taking an evening stroll through traditional Gion in search of geishas, or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant.
Overnight stay in Kyoto.
Day 9: Kyoto
- Led by an experienced local guide, today you will discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto: the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
- During the walk, you will learn more about the significance of the fox statues, Shinto rituals and hidden paths that remain unknown to most tourists.
- An idyllic, enriching experience that brings you closer to the soul of Japan.
Small group guided walking tour in Kyoto included.
Overnight stay in Kyoto.
Day 10: Kyoto
- Today, you can continue exploring Kyoto. We recommend:
- Visiting highlights such as the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), the Zen garden of Ryoanji, the dramatic view from Kiyomizu-dera or the impressive Sanjusangendo.
- Or heading to Arashiyama to see the famous bamboo forest and the tranquil Tenryu-ji temple.
- Kyoto is a city that you never tire of exploring.
Overnight stay in Kyoto.
Days 11 to 13
Day 11: Kyoto – Bullet train to Hiroshima
- Are you getting used to travelling on the bullet train/Shinkansen? Today your destination is Hiroshima, a city with an impressive history.
- After arriving, you can visit the Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome, where you can reflect on the events of 1945 and the city's message of peace.
Overnight stay in Hiroshima.
Day 12: Hiroshima
- Today you have the whole day to explore Hiroshima and its surroundings. We suggest:
- Visiting Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, famous for its ‘floating’ torii gate.
- Discovering Hiroshima Castle, the Hiroshima Peace Museum.
- Or enjoying local specialities such as okonomiyaki.
Overnight stay in Hiroshima.
Day 13: Hiroshima – Bullet train to Osaka
- Head to Osaka, the bustling city with street food, modern architecture and nightlife.
- We recommend exploring the Kita and Minami districts or visiting the impressive Osaka Castle.
Overnight stay in Osaka.
Days 14 to 16
Day 14: Osaka
- Enjoy a leisure day in Osaka. We suggest:
- Strolling through the culinary paradise of Dōtonbori.
- Visiting the Kaiyukan Aquarium.
- Taking a day trip to the tranquil Minoo Park with its waterfalls.
- Osaka offers the perfect end to your trip: lively, tasty and energetic.
Overnight stay in Osaka.
Day 15: Osaka
- An extra day to explore Osaka at your own pace or why not taking a trip to Nara, the former imperial capital with free-roaming deer and the impressive Todai-ji Temple?
- Or simply enjoy one last sushi, ramen or takoyaki.
Overnight stay in Osaka.
Day 16: Departure
- Today, you say goodbye to Japan.
- Make your way to the airport for your return flight, with a suitcase full of memories of centuries-old temples, ultra-modern cities, tranquil nature and hospitable people.
Important information about your tour and visits:
The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Your accommodation
During the tour, you will stay in the following hotels (or similar), which have been specially selected for you:
Your hotels in the standard category (3*):
- Tokyo: Henn na Hotel Asakusabashi 3* - Standard Room
- Hakone: Re Cove Hakone 3* - Deluxe Room
- Kanazawa: Hotel Vista Kanazawa 3* - Standard Room
- Kyoto: Hotel Resol Trinity Kyoto 3* - Hollywood Room
- Hiroshima: Hotel Vista Hiroshima 3* - Standard Room
- Osaka: Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda 3* - Standard Room
Your hotels in the superior category (4*):
- Tokyo: Hotel Niwa Tokyo 4* - Standard Room
- Hakone: Hakonenomori Okada 4* - Standard Room
- Kanazawa: Hotel Intergate Kanazawa 3* - Standard Room
- Kyoto: Kyoto Brighton Hotel 4* - Superior Room
- Hiroshima: Hotel Granvia Hiroshima South Gate 4* - Standard Room
- Osaka: Joytel Hotel Osaka Shinsekai 4* - Deluxe Room
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Notes:
- Please note that standard rooms in Western hotels in Japan are typically equipped with two single beds (twin rooms).
- In Japan, a densely populated country where everything is designed to be smaller, standard hotels are of very good quality, but the rooms are often quite small. For more space and comfort, it is better to choose superior hotels.
- For group reservations (> 5 people), it is possible that not all participants in the group can be accommodated in the same hotel. However, every effort will be made to ensure that all participants stay as close to each other as possible.
Read more
Your dining choices
This is an accommodation-only stay, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore Japan’s culinary scene, from local specialities to mouthwatering street food best discovered along the way.
Your included extras —
3GB included mobile internet data, to make your journey easier
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.
Your optional excursions —
Guided walking tour of Kanazawa (4 hours in English with a private guide)
Discover Kanazawa with a private guide who gives you the freedom to tailor the route to your preferences. Highlights include Kenrokuen Garden, Higashi Chaya (geisha district), Nagamachi (samurai district), Omicho Market, Castle Park and Ninja Temple.
Guided Walk Hiroshima Peace (Heiwa) Walking Tour (Small Group)
Discover Hiroshima's impressive past and inspiring reconstruction on a small group walking tour led by a local guide.
Osaka Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai (Small Group)
Discover Osaka's culinary scene on a walking tour through Dotonbori and Shinsekai. Follow a local guide through lively neighbourhoods and discover Osaka's most popular street food and cultural attractions.
Your optional services —
Upgrade to bed and breakfast (3* or 4* hotels)
Choose to upgrade to bed and breakfast at the next step of the booking process. A delicious breakfast will be served daily in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply).
Your journey to Japan —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
Japan
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.
