We Love —
- Discover a magical country that brings centuries of ancient culture together with futuristic technology the likes of which are not seen anywhere else in the world.
- Immerse yourself in the unique culture as you unearth modern cities and ancient marvels alike whilst staying at 3 or 4* hotels.
- Get under the skin of this amazing country, with comfortable hotel accommodation included throughout.
Book Now, Pay Later —
Booking 35 days in advance and spending over £500 per person? No need to pay in full today! Just select the 30% deposit option on our payment page (terms & conditions apply)
Our Offers —
6 Nights
3 night in Tokyo
Train from Tokyo to Kyoto
3 nights in Kyoto
8 Nights
4 night in Tokyo
Train from Tokyo to Kyoto
4 nights in Kyoto
10 Nights
5 night in Tokyo
Train from Tokyo to Kyoto
5 nights in Kyoto
Your Destinations —
One of the world’s most cutting-edge capitals, Tokyo is a city of contrasts. Famous for its modernity, neon-lit landscape and towering skyscrapers, it is also home to sprawling parkland, peaceful shrines and temples and lovingly tended gardens.
Despite its love affair with manga pop culture, fashion, high-tech trends and conspicuous consumption, below the surface is a city that has its roots in ancient heritage. Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples stand close to skyscrapers as a reminder of a more contemplative time and at the heart of the hyperactive centre lies the serene Imperial Palace, the home of the ruling emperor that provides a tangible link to the city’s historical past.
Behind the shopping, entertainment and commercial emporia can be found quaint wooden houses, private gardens with meticulously clipped bonsai trees and the Zen-like calm of the Hamarikyu Gardens. Discover the fascinating and exquisite culture of Japan where the ancient and modern worlds collide. The city’s reputation as a mega-expensive metropolis is ill conceived and visitors can take advantage of inexpensive izakaya bars and neighbourhood cafes that serve delicious noodles and rice dishes.
In Tokyo, gigantic robots battle in subterranean restaurants and unmarked stairways lead to sultry music dens that never close.
If you're looking for old Japan, Kyoto is a must: tranquil gardens, sublime temples and colourful shrines can be found in abundance. While the rest of Japan has embraced modernity, Kyoto still keeps traditions alive. Take a stroll through the Nishijin district and spy some of the older residents emerging from the machiya (traditional townhouses) to ladle water onto their porch.
If you go by an old shōtengai (shopping street) you can admire the ancient speciality shops: tofu sellers, fishmongers, pickle vendors and tea merchants.
A red-lipped, kimono-clad geisha vanishing around a corner. Riverside cherry trees bursting into cloudlike bloom. Zen gardens with raked sand and haiku-inspiring rock formations. While Tokyo is all high-speed trains, flashes of neon and skyscrapers, Kyoto moves to an altogether different rhythm.
Optional Extras —
Our members can choose to add the following optional extras at the next stage of the booking process for an additional fee:
Shopping in Tokyo
Spend some time flitting from one neon-signed shop to another in Tokyo's vast and fabulous shopping centre, befitting the capital of the world's second-largest economy. Shopping in Tokyo mirrors the eclectic style of the city around you: high-end fashion and traditional crafts, posh boutiques and gleaming department stores...no where does old & new like Tokyo!
This excursion will take you to some of Nikko's must-sees: Toshogu Shrine, the magnificent Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji. This option is the perfect way to enjoy the nature and legacy of Nikko. The trip will take approximately 4hrs& includes lunch, a tour guide & transport via minibus.
Sushi workshop (Tokyo)
Your sushi workshop starts early in the afternoon, learn to make different types of Sushi’s (Nigiri, Inari, Hosomaki and California roll). Make your favourite Sushi’s and then take time to taste them with a traditional Miso soup! (from 13:30 to 16:30)
You leave Tokyo and head for Kamakura by bus in order to visit the famous Kotokuin Temple, where the Great Buddha statue is hidden, and Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine afterwards. After a small break to take a cup of Japanese green tea you have time to explore the beautiful bamboo forest at Hokoku-ji Temple.
Departure is at 9am from the Bus Hamamatsucho terminal (the bus can pick you up from other meeting points).
Excursion in Nara
Spend the morning in Nara & discover the famous Todaiji temple, the deer park and the Kofukuji temple. Most tours are on foot (about 4/5 km walk).
Try out one of the most well-known Japanese traditions! This tea ceremony is a true Japanese ritual with a tea master showing you how to make and to taste Japanese green tea. Then, prepare tea by yourselves and savour it with Japanese sweets.
Kyoto by bike
Discover the cultural capital of Japan via bike. Start with an idyllic trip along the Kamo River & head towards the impressive Nanzenji Temple, one of the most important Zen temples in the country. You then continue on the Promenade of the Philosopher lined with cherry trees. Finally, you return to the station in Kyoto along a beautiful canal with ancient tea houses.
Immerse yourself in Japan's unique culture when you opt to enhance your trip with this optional excursion. Watch the famously elegant Maiko dances then take some photos with the elaborately styled dancers, take part in traditional games and treat yourself to a delicious traditional meal...
Your Hotels —
Our members can choose between 3 or 4* hotels.
You will be staying in Standard Rooms with breakfast included throughout.
Please note: Your accommodation is subject to change.
3* Hotels
Hotel Villa Fontaine Ueno - Tokyo
Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo-Ueno Okachimachi is located only a 3-minute walk from Shin-Okachimachi Subway Station and a 10-minute walk from JR Okachimachi Train Station. Free WiFi is available at all areas.
Set in a picturesque historic district overlooking the Higashiyama mountain range, this cosy, unassuming hotel is a 3-minute walk from Sanjo train station, 2 km from the Nishiki Market and 3 km from the Kyoto National Museum.
4* Hotels
Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers you spacious bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms, and convenient access to the JR and Subway lines, making it perfect for tourists. Most rooms feature a panoramic view of Tokyo... it's even more beautiful at night!
Ideally located right in the heart of Kyoto's restaurant and entertainment hub, Kyoto Royal Hotel & Spa is a large hotel that couldn't possibly be closer to Kyoto's hotspots. Hailed by The Telegraph Travel, the hotel houses a slick library-style English bar, the Kotoran Spa offering massage and reflexology treatments, well-equipped guestrooms and the Prandia restaurant.
Your Journey —
Flights: Our members can choose between economy or business class seats.
The flights included are with either a scheduled or no-frills airline and are subject to live availability and prices can change. You can choose your preferred departure times during the booking process. Please select your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ.
Transfers: Shared airport transfers from Tokyo airport to hotel, plus a train trip from Tokyo to Kyoto.