A week in Japan escorted tour

Begin your adventure with included UK airport lounge access before your overnight flight to Tokyo.

Arriving in the Japanese capital, you’ll be met by a tour representative and transferred to your city-centre hotel. Check in and spend the rest of the day relaxing and familiarising yourself with your new surroundings, perhaps heading out to explore the city at your own pace. Dinner is included tonight.

Stay: Sunshine City Prince Hotel or similar (Standard)

Tokyo may seem like a modern metropolis, but beneath its neon glow lies a deep-rooted tradition, easily discovered in the winding alleyways, temples, and shrines dating back to the Edo period. Today, you'll explore the city, starting with a visit to the Tokyo Skytree, Japan's tallest tower. Take time to soak in the atmosphere at Sensoji Temple and browse the vibrant stalls of Nakamise Shopping Street. Drive past the Imperial Palace Plaza before enjoying a peaceful stroll through Hamarikyu Gardens. In the evening, embark on a scenic cruise along Tokyo Bay, savouring a delicious dinner while taking in stunning views of the city’s dazzling skyline.

Stay: Sunshine City Prince Hotel or similar (Standard)

Travel by road from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, where you'll ascend to the 5th Station, 2,400 meters above sea level, offering stunning views of Japan's most iconic peak (weather permitting). If the road to the 5th Station is closed, you'll visit the Fuji Visitor Centre instead. From there, continue to the relaxing spa region of Hakone. Take a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi, where you can spot vermilion torii gates nestled in the surrounding hills and reflected in the lake's calm waters. Then, soar above the lake on the Komagatake Ropeway to the summit of Mount Komagatake, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. You'll stay overnight in the town of Mishima.

Stay: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort & Spa or similar (Superior)

Transfer to Odawara Station, where you'll hop aboard the bullet train and speed toward Kyoto. Once the capital for over a thousand years, Kyoto was the center of Japan's religion, philosophy, art, and cuisine, making it a rich hub of history and culture. This city is the birthplace of many of Japan's most renowned cultural traditions. This afternoon, visit the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine, the most significant of the thousands dedicated to the god Inari. Wander along the iconic pathway lined with thousands of vibrant torii gates, leading you through a tranquil, forested hillside filled with shrines.

Stay: Rihga Gran Kyoto or similar (Superior)

Start your day with a visit to Kinkakuji, the iconic "Golden Pavilion," one of Japan's most famous temples. Surrounded by traditional Zen gardens and set beside a tranquil reflecting pool, the temple’s main hall is covered in shimmering gold leaf, creating a stunning sight in every season. Next, head to Ryoanji, a Zen temple renowned for its world-famous Zen Garden. Immerse yourself in authentic Japanese culture by participating in a traditional tea ceremony with a tea master and try your hand at the timeless art of calligraphy.

Stay: Rihga Gran Kyoto or similar (Superior)

This morning, travel to Nara, another former capital with a rich cultural heritage, second only to Kyoto. This charming and picturesque city offers a wealth of historical treasures. Begin your visit at Todaiji Temple, home to the awe-inspiring Daibutsu, a 15-meter-tall bronze statue of Buddha. While there, you'll also encounter Nara’s famous sika deer. Next, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Isuien, a beautiful example of a Meiji-era (1868-1912) garden. Afterward, head to Osaka to explore the lively Dotonbori district. In the afternoon, delve into the fascinating history of Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city’s turbulent past.

Stay: Hotel Monterey Osaka or similar (Superior)

After a final breakfast, head to the airport for your flight home.

If you're looking to spend longer in Japan, speak to our experts who can either tailor-make a pre-or post-tour itinerary or discuss more in-depth escorted options depending on your preference.