Christmas in Japan

Day 3 : Tokyo

Tokyo is the ultimate metropolis, perfectly blending modern technology with beautifully serene backstreets and old templates. 
Head to the observation deck at Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views over the city before wandering through the district of Asakusa for an opportunity to pick up some souvenirs at Nakamise Shopping Street. 
Continue with a visit to Sensoji Temple, with its five-storey pagoda and the iconic large red Kaminarimon Thunder Gate lantern. After lunch, uncover centuries of Japanese history with a visit to the Tokyo National Museum, found in Ueno Park. 
 

Day 4 : Tokyo

Discover Tokyo's most famous highlights, from the lively Shibuya Scramble Crossing to famous neighbourhoods like Shinjuku. Head to the shinto shrine of Meiji Jingu, surrounded by a small forest that feels a universe away from Shibuya just a few minutes' drive away. Here, learn about the Emperor Meiji, who presided over the Meiji Restoration. Japan's transition from feudal state to world power. 
 

After lunch, the afternoon is at leisure to make the most of Tokyo independently. This evening meet your group for dinner, and stop to enjoy the city's beautiful Christmas illuminations.

Day 5 : 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 6 : Mount Fuji

Continue your Fuji adventures with a visit to Oshino Hakkai, a charming village filled with mineral-rich ponds and slowly spinning water wheels. Continue to Kawaguchiko, a town famous for its Fuji views. Visit Fujisan World Heritage Centre, where you can learn about the mountain's spiritual and geological significance. 

Day 7 : Christmas Eve in Kyoto

Drive north into the foothills of the Japanese Apls. Stop in Matsumoto Castle, also known as 'Crow Castle', due to its intense black exterior. 

Next, drive 2.5 hours west through the Alps to Takayama, an atmospheric town nestled high in Gifu province's mountains Hida region. Check in to your hotel in Takayama and enjoy the relaxing onsen facilities.  

Day 8 : Takayama

Wrap up warm and head out to explore this lovely mountain town. Stroll around the traditional houses of the Old Town and visit the museums, stopping at Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, Kusakabe Folk Museum, and Sannomachi Street before lunch. In the afternoon enjoy some free time to explore independently. 

Day 9 : Shirakawago & Kanazawa

Check out of your hotel and drive 90 minutes north to the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawago, famous for its traditional wooden gassho farmhouses. With their steep thatched roofs, often laden in snow, these houses one of the most iconic winter views in Japan. Visit the largest farmhouses and learn about life in this remote rural area. 

Day 10 : Kenroku-en - Samurai District - Train to Kyoto

Visit beautiful Kenrokuen, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens. Here, admire the Yukitsuri, a technique using ropes to support the pine tree branches and their heavy blankets of snow. Later, stroll through the Edo-period Nagamachi District and visit one of its old samurai houses. 

This afternoon, board the Thunderbird limited express train for a 2hr 15 minute journey to Kyoto, Japan's cultural heart. 

Day 11 : Kyoto

Discover the highlights of Kyoto. Once the capital of Japan, this former seat of power wears its history proudly on its sleeve. Begin at Kiyomizu Temple, with its views over Kyoto. Later, admire the pathway of vermillion toril gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, and stop for a photo at the Gleaming Golden Pavillion of Kinkaku-ji. 

Day 12 : Kyoto

Spend the morning at a traditional tea house, where you'll have the option to don a kimono before enjoy a tea ceremony and wagashi sweet-making experience. 

Day 13 : Nara & Osaka

Bid farewell to Kyoto and drive 1 hour south to Nara, Japan's former imperial capital. Visit Todaiji Temple, the world's largest wooden structure, and meet Nara's sacred deer, who roam here at leisure and enjoy bowing to visitors. Visit the Edo-period Isuien Garden, where sasanqua camellias usually bloom in December. 

Day 14 : Koyasan

This morning, drive 2 hours into the mountains to experience the tranquil winter beauty of Mt Koya, the heart of Shingon Buddhism. Visit the Kongobuji Temple and Garan temple complex. 

 

Day 15 : Himeji & Kobe

Drive west from Osaka to Himeji, one of Japan's most magnificent castles. Explore the majestic 17th century keep before lunch.

Drive to Kobe, where you'll visit a small sake brewery museum and a Christmas market before indulging in a farewell dinner. 

Day 16 : Depart Osaka

This morning is free at leisure before you transfer to Osaka airport for your return flight home.