This is a journey of natural wonders, historic landmarks and mystical surprises. Start your tour in Tokyo, a bustling modern metropolis steeped in tradition and spirituality. Discover the picturesque Fuji Five Lakes region and its most famous site, the iconic Mt. Fuji. Kyoto is an historically priceless city which is home to many temples and shrines, and because of this was spared from air raids during World War II. Visit several of these temples including the spectacular Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and impressive Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Travel to Hiroshima, a city which has grown phoenix-like from the destruction of World War II, and the beautiful Miyajima, a neighbouring island that is home to one of the most photographed locations in Japan, Itsukushima Shrine (the Floating Torii Gate). End your tour with an excursion to Himeji and the remarkable Himeji Castle. Add to this the exciting experience of travelling by Shinkansen (bullet train) and sampling delicious Japanese cuisine and you are sure to gain memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
Arriving in Tokyo, you will be met by a representative from UTS who will assist you with boarding the airport limousine bus to your hotel where you will be checked in for 3 Nights. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day 2: Tokyo
Full day tour of the Japanese capital including the majesty of the Imperial Palace Plaza and the 7th century Asakusa Kannon Buddhist Temple.
Day 3: Tokyo
Day at leisure with the option to join a full day seat in bus excursion to the northern town of Nikko, site of the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage setting of the Toshugo Shrine and Rinoji Temple. One of the country's premier attractions, it has been a major pilgrimage site for both the Buddhist and Shinto religions for over a millennia.
Day 4: Tokyo - Mt. Fuji/Hakone
Depart Tokyo this morning, taking a full day seat in bus excursion to Hakone National Park. Visit the magnificent setting of Mount Fuji, travelling to Fuji's 5th station. Also enjoy a boat ride on Lake Ashi. Transfer to the hotel by pre-paid taxi.
Day 5: Hakone - Hiroshima
Morning transfer by private car to Odawara station to take the Bullet Train to Hiroshima. On arrival short distance taxi to the hotel and check in for 2 nights.
Day 6: Hiroshima
Day to explore Hiroshima at your own pace. Hiroshima is best known for the tragic events of 6th August 1945, when it became the infamous target of the first atomic bomb. Visit the memorial museum and park dedicated to the horrors of that fateful day. The interesting Hiroshima castle is also worth a visit.
Day 7: Hiroshima - Miyajima
Today travel via tram and a short ferry crossing (20 minutes) to Miyajima Island and transfer to your hotel followed by sightseeing with your guide to 6th century Itsukushima Shrine. The island is a haven for deer and monkeys, and from the summit of its sacred mountain the views across the islands are spectacular.
Day 8: Hiroshima - Kyoto
Return to Hiroshima railway station and take the Bullet Train to Kyoto and transfer to your hotel for 3 nights.
Day 9: Kyoto
Sightseeing today will be with a private guide utilising the city's extensive public transport system. Visit the famous Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu Temple, Ryoanji Temple and Nijo Castle.
Day 10: Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto
Bus tour to Nara, the 8th century capital of Japan visiting gigantic bronze Buddha of the Todal-Ji (Great Eastern Temple), Kasuga Shrine and take a stroll through Deer Park. Return back to Kyoto.
Kyoto - Osaka - Tokyo - Depart Tokyo
Transfer by private car to Itami Airport (Osaka) to board flight for Tokyo. In Tokyo proceed to check in for your flight back home.