Japan, a country steeped in mythical traditions and modern wonders. This journey uncovers the highlights of this fascinating country. Like the history, the country is varied and diverse: from the ancient cities of Nara and Kyoto, onto one of the holiest mountains in Japan, Koya-San; from the historically relevant city of Hiroshima and onto the beautifully preserved village of Tsumago; from the World Heritage Site of Nikko, backdropped by mountains, lakes and waterfalls to the bustling futuristic city of Tokyo. This tour gradually reveals the rich variety of the country as we visit temples, castles, shrines and holy mountains while still mixing with locals and experiencing the real Japan as we spend nights in family run ryokans and a mountain-top shukubo temple lodging. Come on this magical journey and experience all that Japan has to offer.
Itinerary
| Day 1 |
Arrive in Kyoto. |
| Days 2-3 |
Explore Kyoto, visiting Golden Temple, Nijo Castle and Ryoan Ji Zen garden. Walking tour of Gion geisha district. |
| Day 4 |
Day trip to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. |
| Day 5 |
Koya-San holy mountain. Stay overnight in shukubo (temple accommodation). |
| Day 6 |
Bullet train via Himeiji Castle to Hiroshima, City of Peace. |
| Day 7 |
Visit Atomic Bomb Peace Museum and Peace Memorial Park. Ferry to Miyajima Island and stay in traditional Japanese ryokan. |
| Day 8 |
Bullet train to Tsumago. Stay in an old rural ryokan. |
| Day 9 |
Explore Tsumago. Walk to Magome. Train via Nagano and the 'Japanese Alps' to Nikko. |
| Days 10-11 |
Explore the lakes, mountains and waterfalls of Nikko. Visit World Heritage listed Toshogu shrine. Train to Tokyo. |
| Day 12 |
Optional day trip to Mount Fuji and Hakone region. |
| Days 13-14 |
Full day sightseeing tour of Tokyo including cruise on Sumida River. Optional Kabuki performance. |
| Day 15 |
Trip ends in Tokyo this morning. |