Day 1 - Arrive Tokyo
‘Konnichiwa’ and welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s dazzling capital. A city where ancient tradition meets futuristic innovation, every neighbourhood offers a new adventure. Some areas are steeped in history with glowing lanterns and rustic buildings, while others seem entirely focused on the future. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a briefing and your first taste of authentic Japanese cuisine.
Hotel: Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 - Tokyo Sightseeing
Today you’ll explore Tokyo’s vibrant mix of modernity and tradition. Begin with sweeping views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Observatory, then enjoy a peaceful walk at the Meiji Jingu Shrine, a tranquil oasis amid the city’s buzz. Wander through Asakusa, exploring the centuries-old Sensō-ji Temple and browsing for souvenirs along Nakamise Street. In the afternoon, choose your adventure: dive into the cultural treasures of the Tokyo National Museum, with bonus stops in Ameyoko Market and Ginza, or try your hand at cooking on a foodie-focused journey learning to make takoyaki, before sampling yakitori, ramen, and edamame with unlimited soft drinks.
Hotel: Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main
Meals: Breakfast
Choice Experiences: Tokyo National Museum, Ameyoko & Ginza / Takoyaki Making

Day 3 - Mt. Fuji & Hakone
Today, experience the iconic Mt. Fuji up close. Drive to the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station (weather permitting) and admire the panoramic views of the Fuji Five Lakes region from 2,300 metres above sea level. Take some time to enjoy a relaxed lunch in the shadow of this magnificent snow-capped volcano. Afterwards, ride the Komagatake Ropeway over Lake Ashi, a stunning crater lake, before driving through the tranquil city of Hakone, renowned for its traditional buildings and scenic mountain vistas. Return to Tokyo for an evening at leisure, perhaps exploring the city streets or enjoying a quiet night in.
Hotel: Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Tokyo to Kyoto
Board the bullet train and speed to Kyoto, Japan’s historical heart. Famous for its geishas, teahouses, and exquisite temples, Kyoto exudes a serene charm. Your sightseeing begins at Kinkaku-ji, the iconic Golden Pavilion, with its shimmering gold-leaf exterior reflecting in a peaceful pond. Next, marvel at Heian-jingu Shrine, a Shinto masterpiece with its towering torii gate and stunning architecture. Finish the day with a visit to a traditional handicraft centre to browse beautiful Japanese crafts before checking into your hotel. Dinner this evening is at a local restaurant, giving you your first taste of Kyoto’s culinary delights.
Hotel: Kyoto Tower Hotel Annex
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 - Kyoto Free Day
Wake up in Kyoto and enjoy a day at your own pace. Start by exploring Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion, or wander through the historic Gion district in search of geishas. For food lovers, Kyoto offers culinary delights including fresh sushi, steaming ramen, and creamy matcha ice cream at Nishiki Market. Optional experiences include a trip to Nara, where you’ll watch ink-making artisans, visit Todaji Temple, and meet the hundreds of friendly deer in Nara Park. Alternatively, you can visit Fushimi Inari Shrine to see its thousands of vermilion torii gates or join a traditional tea ceremony in Wazuka Village. End the day with an optional Japanese BBQ experience for a memorable taste of Kyoto’s cuisine.
Hotel: Kyoto Tower Hotel Annex
Meals: Breakfast
Choice Experiences: Nara Visit and Ink Making / Fushimi Inari Shrine & Kiyomizu Temple / Traditional Tea in Wazuka Village / Japanese BBQ Experience

Day 6 - Kyoto to Hiroshima via Kurashiki
Leave Kyoto and journey to Kurashiki, where a Local Guide will lead you through the picturesque Bikan Historical Quarter. Explore the black-and-white warehouses now converted into museums, old wooden houses, and winding laneways that exude timeless elegance. From there, continue to Hiroshima, a city that stands as a symbol of resilience and hope. In the evening, enjoy dinner and take some time to explore the city streets at your own pace.
Hotel: Oriental Hotel Hiroshima / Hiroshima Tokyu Rei
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 - Hiroshima Sightseeing
Take a ferry across the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima Island, one of Japan’s most scenic spots, to visit the 12th-century Itsukushima Shrine and its famous floating torii gate. Back in Hiroshima, stroll through the peaceful Peace Memorial Park, visit the Memorial Museum to learn about the city’s tragic history, and reflect at the UNESCO-listed Peace Memorial, the only building to survive the atomic bombing. Optional afternoon experiences allow for a deeper dive into Hiroshima’s secrets and culture.
Hotel: Oriental Hotel Hiroshima / Hiroshima Tokyu Rei
Meals: Breakfast
Choice Experiences: Secrets of Hiroshima

Day 8 - Hiroshima to Himeji
Travel from Hiroshima to Himeji, famous for its fairy tale-like castle. Enjoy free time to explore and have lunch before meeting a Local Guide to visit the UNESCO-listed Himeji Castle, known as the White Heron Castle. Marvel at its vast size, intricate gardens, and rich history before heading to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Hotel: Hotel Nikko Himeji
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 - Himeji to Osaka
Start the day with a visit to a sake brewery in Himeji, learning about the history and brewing process of Japan’s traditional rice wine. Continue to Osaka, a lively city full of neon lights, street food, and cultural attractions. Optional afternoon experiences include visiting the Umeda Sky Building and Osaka Castle or exploring Dotonbori for a foodie-inspired dinner and the vibrant nightlife.
Hotel: Hankyu Respire Osaka
Meals: Breakfast
Choice Experiences: Umeda Sky Building & Osaka Castle / Dinner in Dotonbori

Day 10 - Depart Osaka
After an unforgettable journey through Japan, say farewell to Osaka and your fellow travellers, taking home memories of incredible cities, landscapes, and experiences.
Meals: Breakfast
