Classic Japan Adventure

On arrival in Tokyo, you will be greeted at the airport by our driver and taken to your hotel in Asakusa. Your tour leader will be waiting for you in the lobby, where you will gather with the group for a welcome meeting before enjoying a meal at a local restaurant. Asakusa offers a glimpse of the city's history, with its traditional market stalls leading to the ancient Senso-ji temple, Tokyo's oldest.

On day 2, we embark on a tour of Tokyo's iconic sites, from Shibuya's bustling scramble crossing to the vibrant arcades of Akihabara. End the day with a relaxing cup of green tea at the serene Hamarikyu Gardens. Tokyo may be a symbol of modernity, but it still holds pockets of history for those willing to explore.

Accommodation: Gracery Asakusa Hotel or similar

Tokyo - Hakone. Marvel at the beauty of Mount Fuji and discover the Hakone Open-Air Museum in Hakone, known as one of Japan's most popular national parks.

Conveniently accessible by bullet train, Hakone is located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is renowned for its hot springs. During your visit, you will be accommodated in a traditional Japanese hotel near the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The museum showcases works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Miro, Rodin, and Henry Moore, set against the backdrop of picturesque mountain landscapes.

In addition to the art exhibits, Hakone offers a variety of attractions including charming traditional buildings and a leisurely pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, with stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Your tour leader will guide you to explore these highlights and more on day 4 of your trip.

Each evening, enjoy a delicious kaiseki-style dinner featuring local and seasonal ingredients included in your stay. Be sure to take advantage of the relaxing hot spring baths, a beloved tradition in Japanese culture, while in Hakone, where you will find top-notch bathhouses to unwind in.

Accommodation: Laforet Club Hakone Gora Yunosumika or similar

Hakone - Osaka. On day 5 we journey via local train and shinkansen bullet train to Osaka, a bustling and modern city celebrated for its delicious street food offerings such as takoyaki octopus balls and okonomiyaki savoury pancake.

Upon arrival, we kick off our exploration by visiting Osaka Castle, an impressive reconstruction with a museum showcasing the castle's history. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to explore at your own pace or join your tour leader to wander through the lively Dotonbori district, home to iconic sights like the illuminated "Glico running man" and a large animatronic crab. Don't miss the chance to sample some local street food delicacies.

Day 6 is free to pursue activities of your choosing. Consider taking a day trip to Himeji Castle or the ancient imperial city of Nara, both easily accessible from Osaka. Our tour leader will provide guidance on these options or offer suggestions for alternative excursions.

Accommodation: Cross Hotel Osaka or similar

Osaka - Kyoto. Capital of Japan from 794 to 1869, Kyoto is home to a wealth of historical sites and landmarks. The city's numerous temples and shrines offer a glimpse into its vibrant past. Your tour leader will design a customized itinerary based on the season, weather, and group preferences.

Experience the traditional charm of Kyoto's Gion district on day 7 with a private afternoon tea with a maiko, followed by a group dinner at a local restaurant. On day 8, explore the city's highlights, including the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, Yasaka Shrine, and the iconic Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide as well as our tour leader.

Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Shinmachi Bettei or similar

Kyoto - Takayama. On day 9, we journey from Kyoto to Takayama in the Japanese Alps. The city is known for its exceptional craftsmen. Take the afternoon to wander through craft shops and sake breweries in the old town district before enjoying dinner at our Japanese-style inn.

Day 10 in Takayama offers a full day of exploration, starting with a visit to the riverside morning market. Next, we venture to Hida no Sato folk village to see traditional thatched farmhouses. For a different experience, consider visiting the Sukyo Mahikari cult's world headquarters, a unique shrine with a giant fish tank at its altar. Dinner is not included, so we recommend trying the delicious Hida beef for a taste of local cuisine.

Accommodation: Tanabe Ryokan or similar

Takayama - Japanese Alps. Our adventure continues as we take a private coach to the Shinhotaka Ropeway on day 11. This unique "double-decker" cable car offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After the ride, we visit the quaint hot spring town of Hirayu Onsen. Here, you can take an optional hike to a beautiful waterfall. Later, you can relax and enjoy the hot spring baths before tucking into a delicious dinner at the accommodation.

On day 12, a short bus ride brings us to Kamikochi, located in the Chubu-Sangaku National Park. The plateau sits at an elevation of about 1,500m (4,920ft) above sea level, providing cooler weather compared to other parts of Japan, even in the summer. Our tour leader will lead a hike starting at the serene Taisho Pond and continuing for approximately 6km to the Myojin Pond, which houses a mystical Shinto shrine nestled among the mountainous forest. Along the mostly flat route, you may have the chance to see wild monkeys in the area, and there is an option to cut the hike short for those not wanting to complete the full excursion. Dinner is included once again this evening.

Accommodation: Hirayukan or similar

Japanese Alps - Matsumoto - Tokyo. Explore Matsumoto's iconic "Black Crow" castle before heading back to Tokyo by bus and train on day 13. Our final evening will be spent in the lively Shinjuku district, enjoying an included farewell meal with the tour group. The next morning, say goodbye to your fellow travelers and catch the included shuttle to the airport for your flight home.

Accommodation: JR Kyushu Blossom Shinjuku or similar