Japan is a proud, enigmatic and intrinsically beautiful country blessed with stunning landscapes and noble traditions. This tour will take you to the highlights of central Japan presenting a perfect introduction to the culture and the people of this fascinating destination which is a rich fusion of old and new.
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo
On arrival, transfer by airport bus to a conveniently located pre-booked Hotel for 3 nights. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 2: Tokyo
Sightseeing tour of Tokyo, where you will take in some classic highlights including: the Imperial Palace Plaza and the Asakusa Kannon Buddhist Temple. Enjoy a traditional Japanese ‘Yakitori’ (chicken and vegetable skewers) lunch.
Day 3: Tokyo
Today is at leisure for you to further explore Tokyo. There is the option of taking a full-day tour of Nikko and Kegon waterfalls.
Day 4: Mount Fuji – Lake Ashi - Hakone
Travel to Mount Fuji – Japan’s iconic and most enduring image. Visit the Fuji Visitor Centre, with fabulous views of Mount Fuji from the observation deck, and Mount Fuji 5th station, located 2,305m above sea level. After lunch, travel to Lake Ashi and enjoy a cruise taking in some of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes. Continue to Hakone where you will overnight at your pre-booked Hotel.
Day 5: Hakone - Kyoto
Travel by Kodama Shinkansen (Bullet) train to Kyoto. On arrival transfer to your pre-booked Hotel in Kyoto for 4 nights. In the afternoon sightseeing of Kyoto on foot, including Kiyomizu Temple and Yasaka Shrine. The tour ends in the famous Gion area with its geisha quarters and tea houses.
Day 6: Nara
From Kyoto station, travel by Kintetsu Express train to Nara – Japan’s first real capital which holds vast historical significance. Visit Kodaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple and Nara Park, the tranquil gardens that is home to many Nara deer. Return by train to Kyoto for rest of the afternoon at leisure.
Day 7: Kyoto
Kyoto is Japan’s former capital and a living museum for Japan’s ancient traditions making it one of the world’s most culturally rich cities. You have the day at leisure to further explore this fascinating city.
Day 8: Hiroshima and Miyajima
A full-day of sightseeing in Hiroshima. Travel by the fast Nozomi Shinkansen train to Hiroshima station, then take a boat to visit Miyajima Island and the Itsukushima Shrine, with its famous floating torii gate. Continue by boat to the Peace Memorial Park and A-Bomb Dome. Travel back to Hiroshima station and on to Kyoto by Nozomi Shinkansen train.
Day 9: Tokyo
Transfer to Kyoto station for the Hikari/Nozomi Shinkansen train back to Tokyo. Own transfer to the Hotel for your last night in Japan.
Day 10: Depart Tokyo
In time transfer to Narita Airport for your flight back home.