Christmas in Japan
Escorted Tour
Many choose the festive season to see the world, and we can think of no better place than Japan. As well as seeing the classic sights such as the bustling city of Tokyo and iconic Mount Fuji, Christmas Day will be spent exploring Kyoto's temples before taking the bullet train to Hiroshima for a special dinner cruise on Hiroshima Harbour. The tour also includes additional special dinners and experiences during this festive time.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
Day 1 : Tokyo
On arrival in Tokyo, you will be met by an English-speaking representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 2 : Tokyo
Tokyo is a city of contrasts, famous for its neon-lit signs, towering skyscrapers and peaceful shrines. Begin today with a stroll through the Imperial Palace East Garden and then take time to explore the Tokyo National Museum to learn about the city’s historical heritage. After lunch, seek out the tranquillity at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa district, followed by a visit to the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree for panoramic views over the sprawling city below.
Day 3 : Meiji Shrine
Start the day with a relaxing stroll around the classical landscapes of the Hamarikyu Gardens. Continue to the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, before driving past the famous Shibuya Crossing. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, before rejoining the group for dinner.
Day 4 : Mount Fuji
Journey through the foothills of the iconic Mount Fuji to its base and the Fuji Five Lakes. The region is spectacularly dotted by the calm waters of five lakes, formed by past volcanic eruptions, reflecting Mount Fuji’s picture-perfect cone. Upon arrival, ascend 2,000 metres up to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station (weather permitting) and take in the breathtaking views over the landscapes below. Next, continue to Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to view the artist’s elaborate dyed silk creations and spend some time strolling around the beautiful garden. Also explore Iyashi no Sato Historical Village, a former farming village on the shores of Lake Saiko. Destroyed by a landslide in 1966, the remaining thatch-roofed houses of this old village have been transformed into an open-air museum and craft village. Stay overnight in Mishima and enjoy the public onsen facilities.
Day 5 : Kyoto
Start the day with a visit to Oshino Hakkai before learning how to make your very own traditional Japanese soba noodles which you will then tuck into for lunch. Later, transfer to Mishima station and journey on the bullet train to Kyoto. An enchanting city, Kyoto was capital for 1,000 years; today it is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens.
Day 6 : Christmas Eve in Kyoto
Enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto starting with a visit to one of the city’s delightful temples, the 17th century Buddhist Kiyomizu. Immerse yourself in the culture by experiencing the sacred rituals of a tea ceremony with a Tea Master and try your hand at origami. Later, explore the impressive Fushimi Inari Shrine with its remarkable 10,000 red torii gates. Tonight, dine on a special Christmas feast in a local restaurant, while enjoying the street decorations, Christmas markets and many amazing illuminations.
Day 7 : Christmas Day in Kyoto
Begin the day with a visit to Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous Zen garden and the famous Kinkakuji Temple, known as the ‘Golden Pavilion’. Continue to Osaka, arriving in time for lunch in the vibrant Dotonbori district. Later, travel by bullet train to Hiroshima, a city that needs no introduction. End the day with a special Christmas dinner cruise on Hiroshima Bay.
Day 8 : Hiroshima and Miyajima
Hop on the ferry to the holy island of Miyajima and visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most recognisable, located on the edge of the waters of the Seto Island Sea. Enjoy some free time and take an optional ride on the cable car up Mount Misen to enjoy the panoramic views. Return to Hiroshima and take a moment to reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which pays homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb and also visit the Orizuru Tower.
Day 9 : Himeji Castle
Travel to Himeji to visit its famous castle. The feudal era fort, one of the most impressive in Japan, towers over the city and is recognisable as the backdrop to several major films. Appreciate its turbulent past before strolling around Kokoen, the Edo-style gardens just across the castle moat. Later, transfer to Osaka for an overnight stay and end your holiday in Japan with a special pre New Year’s dinner.
Day 10 : Depart Osaka
This morning is free at leisure before you transfer to Osaka airport for your return or onwards journey.
