Jewels of Japan
Escorted Tour
See the classic sights of Japan, visiting modern Tokyo, iconic Mount Fuji and historic Kyoto. A visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Museum and the holy island of Miyajima complete this fascinating tour. You will discover the delights of vibrant Tokyo, admire breathtaking Mount Fuji, make your own Japanese soba noodles, experience the speedy bullet train and explore Japan's history in Kyoto.
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, you will be met by an English-speaking representative and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2 : Tokyo
Today, take a tour by coach of this fascinating city. Begin with a stroll through the Imperial Palace East Garden before exploring the Tokyo National Museum. After lunch, head to the Asakusa district, stopping at the atmospheric Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple and home to a five-storey pagoda as well as the iconic large red Kaminarimon Thunder Gate lantern. Go on to browse the stalls throughout the Nakamise shopping street, followed by a visit to the observation deck of the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views over the city. Dinner this evening will be at a local restaurant within walking distance of your hotel.
Day 3 : Tokyo
Spend a relaxed morning wandering around the classical landscapes of the Hamarikyu Gardens and explore the Shinto Meiji Shrine, located in a green forest within the city. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel, driving by the Shibuya “Scramble” Crossing on the way. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore independently or relax in the hotel. Transfer from the hotel to your boat and take a leisurely 1-hour dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay for some excellent city vistas.
Day 4 : Mount Fuji and Five Lakes
Journey through the foothills of the iconic Mount Fuji to its base, where you will find the Fuji Five Lakes. The region is spectacular with the calm waters of the five lakes, formed by past volcanic eruptions, reflecting Fuji’s picture-perfect cone. Head up to Fuji’s 5th Station for spectacular mountain views. After lunch, visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to view the elaborate dyed silk creations before exploring the Iyashi no Sato historical village, located on the western shores of Lake Saiko, famous for its thatched-roofed houses. Transfer to Mishima and check into your hotel.
Day 5 : Kyoto
Begin the day with a visit to Oshino Hakkai, a scenic area of ponds full of crystal-clear spring water created by Fuji’s melting snow. Stroll around the area before trying your hand at making traditional Japanese soba noodles, which you will then tuck into for lunch. Continue to Mishima Station to board a 2-hour bullet train to Kyoto.An enchanting city, Kyoto was capital for a thousand years; today it is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens. Check in to your hotel and have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 6 : Kyoto
Enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto, starting with a visit to the spectacular Kiyomizu Temple. Next, immerse yourself in the culture, learning the traditional Japanese handicraft of origami before enjoying the art of a tea ceremony. After lunch, visit a traditional teahouse where you will be joined by a Tea Master. Afterwards, visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
Day 7 : Hiroshima
Begin the day with a visit to Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous zen garden and Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion' due to its golden exterior. Continue by coach to Osaka to have lunch in the vibrant Dotonbori district. Transfer to the train station and take the bullet train to Hiroshima. A modern and prosperous city, Hiroshima will be forever remembered as the world’s first atomic bomb target.
Day 8 : Hiroshima
Hop on the ferry to the holy island of Miyajima, where sightseeing will be at a leisurely pace on foot. Visit Itsukushima Shrine and explore the traditional market town at leisure. Return by ferry and then coach to Hiroshima where you will have lunch. Later, visit the famous Peace Memorial Park and Museum. You will also visit the Orizuru Tower, Itsukushima shrine and enjoy free time on Miyajima Island to explore the local streets or make the walk up to Daisho-in Temple.
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. Take time to 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.
Day 10 : Osaka
This morning is free at leisure before transferring to the airport for your return or onward journey.
