Japan in Bloom

On arrival in Tokyo, you will be greeted at the airport by our driver. You will then travel by shared shuttle bus to our hotel in the Asakusa district, where your tour leader will be waiting in the lobby to meet you. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the market stalls and stunning Senso-ji temple. In the evening, there will be a welcome meeting followed by a group meal at a local restaurant.

On day 2, our tour leader will take you on an extensive tour of Tokyo. We visit various areas, such as the traditional Asakusa and the modern Shinjuku. We also explore areas like Akihabara and Ginza, and relax in the beautiful Hamarikyu Gardens. The day will end with a visit to Harajuku and Meiji Jingu shrine on the west side of the city.

Day 3 is at leisure to continue exploring Tokyo or take a day trip to Nikko or Kamakura. Nikko is known for its elaborate temple complex and historical significance, while Kamakura is a charming seaside city famous for its giant Buddha statue.

Accommodation: Gracery Asakusa Hotel or similar

Tokyo - Matsumoto. Embark on a journey into the Japanese Alps, stopping for the night in Matsumoto. The city is renowned for its historic "Black Crow" samurai castle, which you can choose to visit. This castle is one of the few original samurai castles still standing in Japan, offering visitors the chance to explore the main keep and museum. For dinner, we suggest trying the regional specialty of soba noodles or, if you're feeling daring, sampling some basashi - raw horse meat.

Accommodation: Marunouchi Hotel or similar

Matsumoto - Takayama. On day 5 we complete our journey through the Alps to Takayama, a mountain town known for its skilled craftsmen who have contributed to the construction of important temples and shrines in Kyoto. Take time to explore Takayama's old-town district, where you can browse craft shops and enjoy sake-tasting at local breweries. In the evening, return to our traditional ryokan for a delicious kaiseki dinner served Japanese-style. Don't miss the opportunity to relax in the ryokan's hot spring baths before bed.

On day 6, a local guide will lead us through the historic town, starting with a visit to the lively morning market. Explore the Hida no Sato folk village, showcasing traditional thatched farmhouses and offering insight into pre-industrial Japanese mountain life. Dinner is on your own tonight, so be sure to sample the delicious Hida beef, a regional specialty.

Accommodation: Tanabe Ryokan or similar

Takayama - Kanazawa. Today we leave the mountains to spend a day in Kanazawa on the Japan Sea Coast. Travelling by private coach, we pass through stunning scenery on our journey. Similar to Kyoto, Kanazawa was spared from bombing during World War Two due to its historical buildings and cultural achievements, making it one of Japan's most well-preserved historical cities. Take time to wander through the geisha districts, explore Edo-period houses in the samurai quarter, sample fresh sushi from the market, and be sure not to miss Kenrokuen during your visit - it's one of Japan's most famous gardens and particularly beautiful during springtime, as the cherry blossoms burst into colour.

Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Kanazawa or similar

Kanazawa - Kyoto. During our time in Kyoto, we have the chance to explore the city's numerous temples and historic sites, and enjoy the pretty sights of the city in bloom. On day 8, we visit Gion, the traditional geisha district, for a private audience with a maiko (trainee geisha), followed by a group meal at a local restaurant.

A local guide will lead us on a tour of Kyoto on day 9, showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage. We have the opportunity to visit Nijo Castle, Arashiyama bamboo groves, and witness the Geisha Odori, geisha dances in the evening.

Day 10 is free for you to further explore Kyoto or take a day trip to nearby attractions such as Nara or Himeji. Your tour leader can provide recommendations for day trips or help you make independent arrangements for the day.

Accommodation: Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi or similar

Kyoto - Hakone. We ride the bullet train to Hakone on day 11, a popular hot spring destination nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Experience the Chokoku no Mori Hakone Open-Air Museum this afternoon, showcasing works by renowned artists such as Moore, Rodin, Kusama, and Picasso against a backdrop of picturesque alpine scenery. After a day of exploration, indulge in a delectable dinner at one of Hakone's esteemed restaurants.

Day 12 is at leisure for you to immerse yourself in the various attractions Hakone has to offer. Cruise across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, delve into the history of the Checkpoint Museum, which sheds light on Hakone's past as a post town along the Tokaido trail, and enjoy unparalleled views of Mount Fuji surrounded by pink flowers and cherry blossom - weather permitting! A 3-day Hakone transport card is included in your tour.

Accommodation: Laforet Club Hakone Gora Yunosumika or similar

Hakone - Tokyo. Returning to Tokyo on day 13, you have one last day to enjoy the capital city how you wish. Use this time for any last-minute shopping or to visit the 634m Skytree, explore Odaiba Island via monorail, or book a karaoke booth in Shinjuku. Dinner is not included, but we recommend going out with your tour group and leader for a final-night meal to celebrate the end of a fantastic trip.

Saying goodbye on day 14, you will be transferred back to the airport in time for your flight home.

Accommodation: JR Kyushu Blossom Shinjuku or similar