Highlights of Japan

Duration

10 days

On specific dates

Sundays

Guaranteed

with 4 travellers

Max group size

14 travellers

From GBP £3,160

WHAT TO EXPECT

Experience the world of sumo as you join sumo wrestlers for a delectable ‘chanko’ sumo lunch, while learning about their unique traditions. Step into the shoes of a sumo wrestler by trying on a sumo suit and testing your skills against a professional. Explore the enchanting bamboo groves of Arashiyama, near Kyoto, as you wander along meandering paths amidst towering bamboo stalks. Indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal in Kyoto, accompanied by the captivating entertainment of a Maiko. Seize the opportunity to gain insider knowledge about the intriguing life of an apprentice Geisha, adding an extra layer of fascination to your journey.

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Highlights of Japan

  • Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

    Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo, you will be transferred to your hotel. Take advantage of some free time to unwind and explore the city at your own pace. You will be staying in Tokyo for two nights, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and discovering its captivating attractions.

  • Day 2: Tokyo (B/L)

    Explore Tokyo on foot and the underground rail network. Visit serene Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s most famous Shinto shrine with a 12 metre high torii gate at the entrance. Continue to the Imperial Palace to see Nijubashi, a metal bridge built in 1888. Travel by train to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s liveliest districts, and home to some of the city’s best street food, and old izakaya and yakitori restaurants. Learn about the world of sumo as you enjoy a ‘chanko’ sumo lunch with some sumo wrestlers. After lunch, try on a sumo suit and test your skills against a professional. Spend time exploring Asakusa before returning to your hotel.

  • Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D)

    Take the train from Tokyo to Hakone, best known for its views of the mountains, natural beauty and hot springs. Travel on the ropeway for beautiful views of Lake Ashi and on a clear day, see iconic Mount Fuji. Sail across the waters of Lake Ashi on a pirate ship before returning to your accommodation. Stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese guesthouse and enjoy a delicious dinner, soak in the onsen and sleep on a futon mattress in an immaculate tatami-floored room.

  • Day 4: Hakone to Takayama (B/L)

    Travel by train from Hakone to the ancient town of Takayama, celebrated for its remarkably preserved old town district and authentic ambiance. Indulge in a delightful bento box lunch during your journey. Explore the historical significance of Takayama Jinya, a former government building that provides fascinating insights into Japan’s rich history. Take a leisurely stroll along Kami Sannomachi Street, admiring the meticulously preserved traditional wooden houses that line the charming streets. Marvel at the intricate festival floats showcased at Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan. Afterward, enjoy some free time to further immerse yourself in the town’s charm before making your way back to the hotel.

  • Day 5: Takayama (B)

    Enjoy a day of leisure in Takayama, allowing you the freedom to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace. Consider visiting the renowned Shirakawago, a World Heritage Listed protected village admired for its breath-taking natural beauty and distinctive steeply pitched thatched roofs, ingeniously designed to endure the region’s heavy winter snowfall. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Takayama by discovering the shrines and temples of the Teramachi district. For another captivating experience, take a short journey to Hida-Furukawa, where you can admire the well-preserved buildings that reflect the town’s historical charm. Embrace the day and create your own unique adventure, immersing yourself in the captivating wonders of Takayama.

  • Day 6: Takayama to Kyoto (B)

    Travel to Kyoto by train, known as Japan’s cultural capital and revered for its Geisha traditions and royal cuisine. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. In the late afternoon, participate in a walking tour along Ponto-cho and Hanami-koji Lane in the Gion district, renowned for their traditional atmosphere. Keep a lookout as you may have the chance to witness a Geisha walking between appointments.

  • Day 7: Kyoto (B)

    Spend the day walking and travelling by public transport to discover Kyoto’s highlights. Take the train to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and marvel at the towering stalks of bamboo before continuing to Tenryuji Temple. See Katsura River from Togetsukyo Bridge and take the iconic purple Randen Train to Ryoanji Temple, the site of the most famous rock garden in Japan. Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), an elegant, gilded 14th century building which is one of Japan’s most cherished sites.

  • Day 8: Kyoto (B) NEW - now include day trip to Nara

    At 9:00 AM, you'll meet your guide at Kyoto Station, where you'll hop on a local train to Nara for a scenic ride of about an hour (ticket included, no reserved seats). Upon arrival, you'll stroll through Nara Deer Park, making your way to the historic Todaiji Temple. At 10:45 AM, you'll have the chance to admire the awe-inspiring Great Buddha inside Todaiji Temple (ticket included). Afterward, take a break and enjoy lunch at Higashimuki and Mochidono Shopping Street, immersing yourself in the local flavors. At 1:30 PM, you'll board a train to Horyu-ji Temple, renowned as the world’s oldest wooden structure (ticket included). Finally, around 6:00 PM, you'll return to your hotel to unwind after a day of cultural exploration.

  • Day 9: Kyoto (B/D)

    Spend a free day exploring Kyoto at your own pace. In the evening, delight in a special kaiseki farewell dinner, a traditional multi-course meal known for its exquisite presentation and flavors. As you savor the delectable dishes, you’ll be treated to the enchanting presence and performances of a Maiko, an apprentice Geisha, adding an extra layer of elegance and artistry to your dining experience. Treasure this memorable evening as you bid farewell to Kyoto, cherishing the moments of cultural immersion and culinary delight that have defined your journey.

  • Day 10: Departure from Kyoto (B)

    It’s time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home. A transfer will take you to Kyoto Station for your onward journey.

  • IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATION

    Please note that the outgoing transfer from Kyoto to your next destination is not included in the tour fare, but we would be happy to arrange it for you with an additional surcharge.

Tour Images

Inclusions

  • Insider Experiences

    Arts & Craft - Maiko or apprentice Geisha performance
    Unique - Immersion in the world of sumo
    Unique - Stay in a ryokan, traditional Japanese guesthouse

  • Accommodation

    8 nights in 3-4 star hotels
    1 night in a ryokan, traditional Japanese guesthouse


  • Meals

    Daily breakfast
    1 local lunch
    2 local dinners

  • Transport

    Airport transfer on arrival and departure
    All high-speed train travel as specified in the itinerary


  • Touring

    English speaking tour guide
    All entrance fees


SKU: IJDB-SGJ-32-2024 / 2025 / 2026 Categories: , Tags: , ,

Departure Dates

START DAYEND DAYPRICE TWIN ROOMPRICE SINGLE ROOM
Sunday, 2 February 2025Tuesday, 11 February 202531603641
Sunday, 9 March 2025Tuesday, 18 March 202531603641
Sunday, 23 March 2025Tuesday, 1 April 202532763773
Sunday, 13 April 2025Tuesday, 22 April 202532763773
Sunday, 18 May 2025Tuesday, 27 May 202534083890
Sunday, 8 June 2025Tuesday, 17 June 202534083890
Sunday, 6 July 2025Tuesday, 15 July 202534083890
Sunday, 27 July 2025Tuesday, 5 August 202534083890
Sunday, 17 August 2025Tuesday, 26 August 202534083890
Sunday, 7 September 2025Tuesday, 16 September 202534083890
Sunday, 28 September 2025Tuesday, 7 October 202534083890
Sunday, 19 October 2025Tuesday, 28 October 202536804146
Sunday, 9 November 2025Tuesday, 18 November 202536804146
Sunday, 23 November 2025Tuesday, 2 December 202536804146
Sunday, 22 February 2026Tuesday, 3 March 202634083890
Sunday, 15 March 2026Tuesday, 24 March 202642564737
Sunday, 5 April 2026Tuesday, 14 April 202642564737
Sunday, 19 April 2026Tuesday, 28 April 202642564737

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