DAY 1

Arrive in Osaka then transfer to Kyoto where you can take a brief stroll to explore the region’s charm. Then savour a welcome dinner at a traditional Japanese restaurant

DAY 2

Visit Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove and the enchanting gardens of Tenryu-ji Temple (UNESCO). Climb a hill to see wild Japanese macaques (the popular hot-spring bathing monkeys) and enjoy stunning views of Kyoto. Alternatively for a more casual stroll, explore Arashiyama’s souvenir shops or relax in cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Golden Pavilion (UNESCO), shining in the afternoon sun. Enjoy Japanese matcha tea at the temple. Explore the Gion Geisha district in the evening.

DAY 3

Board a train to Nara, Japan’s first capital. Explore Todai-ji Temple (UNESCO) housing the largest seated bronze Buddha. Your guide will showcase the temple’s art in a brief museum tour. Walk to Nigatsudo Temple for panoramic views of Nara Park with friendly sika deer. After lunch, return to southern Kyoto for Fushimi Inari Shrine’s iconic thousand red gates. Enjoy the evening at leisure in Kyoto.

DAY 4

Take a train to Himeji. Explore the charming town and iconic Himeji Castle (UNESCO), followed by a serene walk in Kokoen Garden. Your guide will recommend authentic dining options for the evening.

DAY 5

Explore Naoshima, an island devoted to modern art by designer Tadao Ando. Discover the Chi-chu Art Museum nestled in the mountains and various outdoor and indoor art installations.

DAY 6

Take the Shinkansen and the stylish “Kamome” train to Nagasaki. Explore the historic harbor city influenced by Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British settlers. Visit Glover Garden, Chinatown, and Dejima.

DAY 7

Travel to Unzen Peninsula to explore the active volcano and hot springs, witnessing houses buried by pyroclastic flows from the 1990s eruption. In the evening, admire one of the world’s top three night views from Mount Inasayama, alongside Hong Kong and Monaco.

DAY 8

Take a train to the main island and a short Shinkansen ride to Hiroshima. Visit Shukkeien Garden, a survivor of the atomic bomb. Your guide will narrate the history at the Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. Optionally, tour the related museum. Explore Hiroshima in the evening with your guide and savuor the local specialty “Okonomiyaki” at Yuki-chan.

DAY 9

Take Shinkansen across the country to Odawara. Transfer to a private car to explore stunning spots in Fuji-Hakone National Park to indulge in the park’s scenic highlights. Amidst the shifting clouds, try to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, including the renowned “Fuji Skyline” Pass — offering breathtaking vistas of the volcano and Lake Ashi.

In the evening, relish the quintessential Japanese experience of staying in a traditional ryokan inn. Complete with cozy futons, an invigorating onsen hot spring bath, and a delectable dinner, our guide acquaints you with ryokan etiquette, ensuring an authentic local immersion.

DAY 10

Continue exploring Fuji-Hakone National Park by private car for another chance of a clear view of Mount Fuji. Around noon, take a final train ride along the “East Sea Road” to Tokyo. Enjoy a short orientation walk in the afternoon.

DAY 11

Discover Tokyo with your guide, navigating like a local on public transportation. Experience the famous “Yamanote Line” without rush hour hassle. Visit Meiji Shrine, Omotesando Boulevard, and Omotesando Hills, designed by architect Tadao Ando. Afternoon adventures include crossing the “world’s largest crosswalk” in Shibuya and exploring food displays at Mitsukoshi department store in Ginza. In the evening, explore Tokyo’s vibrant side in the former entertainment district of Kabukicho.

DAY 12

Explore the Tokyo National Museum’s highlights with insightful commentary from your guide. Discover Asakusa, Tokyo’s historic district, and the world’s tallest TV tower, Tokyo Skytree, for a panoramic view from 350 meters high. Visit Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest pilgrimage site, and its adjacent souvenir shops. Conclude your Japan trip with your guide over a hearty farewell dinner, reflecting on the highlights of your journey.

DAY 13

Early morning, ride a limousine bus transfer to the airport for a seamless journey, bidding farewell to Japan with fond memories.