A Journey Through Japan’s Cultural Heartland with Justine

ようこそ日本へ – Yōkoso Nihon e – Welcome to Japan!

Welcome to Japan. Upon arrival at Kansai International Airport, make your way to your hotel conveniently located at the airport and take some time to settle in after your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to stretch your legs with a short walk nearby or simply relax and recharge before the adventure begins.

In the late afternoon, gather with your host, fellow travellers and tour leader for an essential welcome meeting where you will get to know the group and hear more about the journey ahead. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, meet your travel companions and begin soaking up the excitement of exploring Japan together.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• None

✅ Activities

• Welcome Joining Meeting

This morning the journey truly begins as you board Japan’s legendary Shinkansen bullet train bound for Hiroshima. Travelling at remarkable speed, the train offers a fascinating glimpse of Japan’s landscapes as cities, countryside and mountains glide past your window.

Upon arrival, visit the deeply moving Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a powerful tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing and a symbol of the city’s incredible resilience and commitment to peace. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner where you will taste Hiroshima’s famous okonomiyaki, a delicious savoury pancake layered with noodles, vegetables and local flavours.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Intergate Hiroshima (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast
• Dinner

✅ Activities

• Shinkansen Bullet Train Journey
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Visit
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
• Welcome Dinner

ℹ️ Special Information

• Your suitcases will be sent ahead to Hiroshima today as you will be travelling extensively by train and public transport. Please prepare a small overnight backpack for your stay in Hiroshima. One suitcase per person is included. Additional luggage can be sent for approximately JPY2800 per bag, payable locally.

Today you take a short ferry ride across the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima Island, one of Japan’s most beautiful and spiritual destinations. As the ferry approaches the island you will see the iconic vermilion torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine appearing to float gracefully on the water.

Spend time wandering through the island’s charming streets lined with traditional shops and local food stalls, sampling delicacies such as grilled oysters and maple leaf shaped sweets. Those feeling energetic may choose to walk scenic forest trails for panoramic views over the inland sea before returning to Hiroshima in the afternoon.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Intergate Hiroshima (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Ferry to Miyajima Island
• Itsukushima Shrine Visit
• Miyajima Island Exploration

Travel by bullet train this morning to Kyoto, Japan’s historic cultural heart and once the imperial capital for more than a thousand years. Upon arrival you will head to the atmospheric Arashiyama district on the edge of the city.

Walk beneath the towering stalks of the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove where sunlight filters softly through the dense forest, creating one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes. Continue to the beautiful Tenryu-ji Temple before enjoying a peaceful stroll beside the Hozugawa River. The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore boutique craft shops or relax at a riverside café.

🏨 Accommodation

• KOKO Hotel Kyoto Sanjo (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Shinkansen Bullet Train Journey
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Walk
• Tenryu-ji Temple Visit
• Hozugawa Riverside Walk

Today is dedicated to discovering some of Kyoto’s most celebrated landmarks. Begin with a visit to the dazzling Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, where a shimmering gold leaf covered temple reflects beautifully across the surrounding pond and gardens.

Continue to Nijo Castle, a historic residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, famous for its ingenious “nightingale floors” which chirp when walked upon as a security measure. Later, explore the lively Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s kitchen, where narrow lanes are filled with stalls offering everything from fresh seafood to traditional sweets and street snacks.

🏨 Accommodation

• KOKO Hotel Kyoto Sanjo (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion Visit
• Nijo Castle Visit
• Nishiki Market Exploration

Depart Kyoto this morning by limited express train bound for the coastal city of Kanazawa, a destination renowned for its beautifully preserved Edo period districts and refined cultural traditions.

After arrival, spend the afternoon exploring Kenrokuen Garden, widely considered one of Japan’s most exquisite landscape gardens. With its elegant ponds, teahouses and carefully sculpted trees, the garden offers a peaceful glimpse into traditional Japanese aesthetics. Nearby, visit the impressive Kanazawa Castle grounds and learn about the city’s powerful samurai past.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Intergate Kanazawa (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Limited Express Train Journey
• Kenrokuen Garden Visit
• Kanazawa Castle Park Visit

ℹ️ Special Information

• Your suitcases will be sent ahead to Tokyo today as the next few days involve travel by train and bus. Please pack a small backpack for 2 nights in Kanazawa and 1 night in Takayama. One suitcase per person is included. Additional luggage can be sent for approximately JPY2800 per bag, payable locally.

Step back in time today as you explore Kanazawa’s beautifully preserved historic districts. Begin in the Nagamachi Samurai District where narrow lanes, earthen walls and traditional residences reveal what life was like for Japan’s warrior class.

Visit the Nomura Samurai House, an elegant former residence showcasing samurai artefacts, armour and a tranquil private garden. Later, wander through the Higashi Chaya District where traditional wooden teahouses line atmospheric streets once frequented by geisha. This evening you may wish to enjoy Kanazawa’s famous seafood, considered among the finest in Japan.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Intergate Kanazawa (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Nagamachi Samurai District Walk
• Nomura Samurai House Visit
• Higashi Chaya District Exploration

Today’s journey takes you deep into the scenic Japanese Alps as you travel by train and bus to the charming mountain town of Takayama. Surrounded by forested hills, this beautifully preserved town offers a glimpse into traditional rural Japan.

Upon arrival, check in to a traditional ryokan where tatami mat floors, sliding paper screens and warm hospitality create a memorable cultural experience. Relax in the soothing onsen baths before enjoying an exquisite multi course kaiseki dinner prepared with seasonal regional ingredients.

Please note that single rooms may not be available this evening due to the size of the ryokan.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hidatei Hanaougi (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast
• Dinner

✅ Activities

• Scenic Train and Bus Journey through the Japanese Alps
• Traditional Ryokan Stay
• Onsen Bath Experience
• Kaiseki Dinner

This morning depart the mountains and travel by train toward the dazzling metropolis of Tokyo, a city where centuries old traditions sit alongside cutting edge technology and vibrant urban culture. As you arrive in Japan’s dynamic capital, the pace and energy shift once again, offering a fascinating contrast to the peaceful mountain towns and historic cities visited earlier in the journey.

Begin with a visit to the tranquil Meiji Shrine, set within a vast forest in the heart of the city, before exploring the colourful streets of Harajuku and the creative fashion and youth culture that define the neighbourhood. Later, experience the electric atmosphere of Shibuya and witness the world famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections on the planet.

In the evening, gather with your host and fellow travellers for a special farewell dinner, celebrating the unforgettable experiences and friendships formed throughout your journey across Japan.

🏨 Accommodation

• Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast
• Dinner

✅ Activities

• Train Journey to Tokyo
• Meiji Shrine Visit
• Harajuku District Exploration
• Shibuya Crossing Experience
• Farewell Dinner

Enjoy one final morning in Japan and savour your last Japanese breakfast before checking out of your hotel. If time allows, take a short walk through the lively streets of Shinjuku, pick up a few last souvenirs, or enjoy a quiet coffee as you reflect on the incredible journey you have experienced.

Your guide will assist with departure arrangements as you make your way to the airport for your onward flight. As you leave Japan, you take with you unforgettable memories of ancient temples, vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes and the warm hospitality that makes this country so special.

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast