Japan uncovered by escorted tour

Fly overnight to Osaka, a city that pulsates with energy. Formerly known as Naniwa, Osaka is Japan's third-largest metropolis and the thriving economic heart of the Kansai region. It is renowned for its exquisite cuisine and is often celebrated as Japan's culinary capital.

Upon arrival in Osaka, experience a warm welcome from an English-speaking guide at the airport and enjoy a shared transfer to your hotel, ready to begin your adventure. Check in and familiarise yourself with the hotel as your guide will share some information with you for the coming days. Enjoy some free time to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant energy, exploring the city's rich offerings including ancient temples, bustling markets and modern marvels. This evening, enjoy an informal welcome dinner at the hotel, with a chance to meet fellow travellers.

Following breakfast, a scenic coach journey brings you to Nara, Japan's ancient imperial capital. As Japan's first permanent capital, Nara boasts a rich history and is home to an impressive eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Spend the morning leisurely exploring this captivating city on foot, including visits to Todaiji Temple – a marvel of architecture that houses the world's largest bronze Buddha statue – and the serene Isui-en Gardens, known for its picturesque natural ponds.

Continue your journey to the vibrant city of Osaka, where you'll indulge in a delicious lunch in the bustling Dotonbori District, a renowned culinary haven for a variety of local delicacies. In the afternoon, explore the majestic Osaka Castle and its impressive grounds before enjoying a relaxing cruise down the scenic Yodogawa River.

Widely considered one of the most spectacular and intact castles in the country, Himeji Castle is a masterpiece of Japanese architecture. Pay it a visit this morning, marvelling at its elegant white appearance which gives it the nickname "White Heron Castle". As one of few Japanese castles to have avoided being destroyed by war, earthquakes or fire, it survives to this day, with its interiors largely preserved in its original condition. After exploring its interiors, visit the beautiful Koko-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden located near the castle. Stop for an included lunch before continuing to Hiroshima, arriving later this evening.

Begin your morning with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, standing as a poignant reminder of the devastating atomic bombing that occurred on August 6, 1945. You have the option to visit the museum or spend time exploring the serene Peace Memorial Park at your own leisure. After lunch, take a short ferry ride to the enchanting Miyajima Island where you will have time to explore the island on foot, including a visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its "floating" torii gate. Afterwards, enjoy free time to wander through the charming local streets or embark on a scenic hike to the Daisho-in Temple, offering breathtaking views.

This morning, you'll embark on a scenic bullet train journey from Hiroshima Station to Kyoto, a captivating city that reigned as Japan's capital for a thousand years. This 1 hour 40-minute ride will transport you to the heart of traditional Japan. After lunch, delve into the city's rich cultural tapestry with visits to Ryoanji, the serene 'Temple of the Peaceful Dragon,' and the iconic Kinkakuji, renowned as the 'Golden Pavilion' for its resplendent gold leaf exterior.

Start the day by exploring the breathtaking Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Meaning ‘Pure Water Temple’, the 16th century Kiyomizu Temple is one of the most celebrated of Japan, housing the Jishu Shrine dedicated to the deity of love. A highlight is the Hondo’s veranda which is perched over the hillside, offering spectacular woodland vistas. Next is a real highlight of your time in Japan as you experience a traditional tea ceremony, guided by an experienced tea master. To honour this sacred ritual, you'll be asked to remove your shoes before entering the tranquil tea room.

After a delightful lunch, prepare to be enchanted by the Fushimi Inari Shrine, where thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates wind through a mystical forest. A gentle 15-minute walk along a scenic path, combining flat stretches and steps, will lead you to this mesmerising spectacle.

Depart Kyoto by coach to the charming city of Kanazawa. As the capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture, it is known for its beautiful samurai and geisha districts, as well as its stunning gardens. After indulging in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, lose yourself in the beauty of Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated landscape gardens. Later, immerse yourself in the innovative world of contemporary art at the Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, renowned for its extensive and captivating collection. In the afternoon, check in to your comfortable hotel located centrally in Kanazawa.

Today's cultural visit takes you to the Nomura Samurai House and its tranquil garden. The family house is a beautifully preserved Edo-era residence and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of samurai warriors and their families. Following this enriching experience, journey to the picturesque village of Gokayama, where after a local lunch, you'll delve into the art of traditional Japanese paper making by trying your hand at creating washi paper,  a type of Japanese paper made from fibres of bark, often used in the art of origami.

Next, visit Shirakawago where you'll have the opportunity to explore the 300-year-old gassho-style Wada House, the largest of its kind in Shirakawago. Finally, arrive at your welcoming hotel in Takayama, complete with rejuvenating onsen facilities.

First up today is a visit to the vibrant Miyagawa Morning Market, where you'll encounter enticing aromas of fresh produce and the lively chatter of locals. Follow this up with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional houses, each a testament to the town's rich history. Then, admire the intricate woodwork and delicate paper screens as you explore fascinating local museums, including the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, the Kusakabe Folk Crafts Museum, and the historic Takayama Jinya. Finally, enjoy some free time to take in the charming ambiance of Kamisannomachi Street, discovering hidden gems and unexpected surprises as you wander through its captivating lanes. This well-preserved part of the historic city features traditional houses, sake breweries, shops and cafes — some of them have been operating for centuries.

Today will begin with a 2.5 hour journey to the historic city of Matsumoto for a visit to the formidable 16th-Century Matsumoto Castle, also known as ‘Crow Castle’ due to its striking black exterior. As you explore its imposing ramparts and hidden chambers, you'll be transported back in time to an era of samurai warriors and feudal lords. After indulging in a delicious lunch, delve into the fascinating world of miso at a traditional Ishii Miso House. Learn about the time-honoured methods used to produce this essential ingredient in Japanese cuisine, and savour the delicate umami flavour of the miso soup, a true taste of Japan. Engage with the knowledgeable craftsmen at the Ishii Miso House and learn about their passion for preserving this vital element of Japanese cuisine.

Next, journey to a picturesque wasabi farm to observe the intricate cultivation process of this unique and precious ingredient that adds a distinctive flavour to Japanese cuisine. Continue your journey to Nagano, host of the 1998 Winter Olympics and a gateway to the majestic Japanese Alps, where you'll check in to your comfortable hotel.

This morning, your tour continues as you take a scenic journey deep into the heart of the Japanese Alps, venturing to Yudanaka in search of the enchanting snow monkeys (Japanese Macaques) at Jigokudani Yaen-Koen Monkey Park. On arrival, a gentle 30-minute walk through the forested valley, along occasionally inclining paths, leads you to a main pool where these fascinating creatures gather. Accustomed to human presence, the snow monkeys can be observed up close, seemingly oblivious to their human guests as they relax and frolic in the steaming hot springs.

Returning to Nagano, explore the 7th-century Zenkoji Temple, a revered site of spiritual significance. Finally, continue your journey by road to the historic city of Matsumoto.

Rising 3,776 meters above sea level, Mount Fuji stands as Japan's tallest peak and an enduring symbol of the nation. Today, you'll travel through the foothills to its base. The region is spectacular, particularly with the calm waters of the five picturesque crater lakes – collectively known as Fujigoko – which surround the northern base of the mountain. Weather permitting, head up Fuji’s 5th Station for spectacular mountain vistas before visiting Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to learn about the lost art of Tsujigahana silk dyeing and the elaborate creations of artist Kubota Itchiku (for May departures, visit Fuji Shibazakura Festival for one of the most scenic places in Japan to see the pink moss phlox in full bloom). Continue to your hotel in Mishima or Gotemba for your overnight stay.

Embark on a scenic journey east this morning, arriving in the picturesque Hakone region. A serene boat cruise awaits you on the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Afterwards, ascend to new heights on the Hakone Ropeway, gliding effortlessly over verdant hills and culminating in a dramatic arrival at the volcanic Owakudani Valley. After lunch, continue around 2 hours to Japan’s capital city, Tokyo.

*Please note, if Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani Valley is closed due to volcanic activity, you will visit Hakone Shrine and take the Komagatake Ropeway instead.

With towering skyscrapers sharing the skyline with serene temples, Tokyo is a captivating blend of ancient and modern, offering a unique urban experience. Pay a morning visit to the Imperial Palace East Gardens – the main residence of the Emperor of Japan – and the Meiji Jingu Shrine – a Shinto shrine dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken. The afternoon is yours to explore Tokyo independently. For select May and September departures, enhance your experience with an afternoon of captivating Sumo wrestling.

The next day, take a leisurely stroll through the Asakusa district, culminating in a visit to the renowned Senso-ji Temple, a Tokyo icon and the city's oldest Buddhist temple. Later, ascend the 634-meter Tokyo Skytree – the tallest structure in Japan – for breathtaking panoramic views. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace before embarking on a memorable dinner cruise aboard a traditional yakata boat.

Your final morning is free at leisure before transferring to the airport for your overnight flight home.