Highlights of Japan

Duration

10 days

On specific dates

Sundays

Guaranteed

with 4 travellers

Max group size

14 travellers

From GBP £3,883

WHAT TO EXPECT

This expertly curated itinerary traverses Japan’s most captivating regions, beginning in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo with visits to historic temples and lively districts. The journey continues to Hakone to experience serene volcanic landscapes, scenic lake cruises, and traditional onsen relaxation. Next, explore the charming mountain town of Takayama with its preserved Edo-period architecture and vibrant markets. The final leg arrives in Kyoto and Nara, where cultural treasures such as bamboo groves, iconic shrines, and historic temples blend with immersive local experiences, including an evening with a Maiko or Geisha. Travel is comfortable and efficient using private cars, trains, and local transport, allowing agents to confidently recommend a seamless blend of modern vibrancy and timeless tradition.

Go to booking

Highlights of Japan

  • Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

    Welcome to Tokyo! Your adventure kicks off upon arrival at either Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your friendly meeting assistant right at the arrival gate. From there, board the comfortable airport limousine bus bound for central Tokyo—your ticket is included. Once you arrive at the designated bus stop, it’s just a short walk (less than 10 minutes) to your hotel, where you can settle in and begin soaking up the energy of this vibrant city.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 2: Tokyo (B/L)

    Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a quick tour briefing before heading by local train to visit the famous Senso-ji Temple and stroll down the lively Nakamise Street, with a possible stop at Kappabashi Kitchen Street if time permits. Enjoy a sumo show* over a hearty lunch featuring either Chanko-hotpot or Tonkatsu, depending on availability. In the afternoon, visit the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine before returning to the hotel in the evening.

    Please note: Sumo Show is subject to availability

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D)

    Prepare an overnight bag, as your main luggage will be sent ahead to your Takayama hotel. Travel by Romance Car train to Hakone Yumoto, followed by a scenic journey via local train and cable car to Sounzan Station. From there, take in the stunning views on the ropeway to Owakudani and Togendai, and enjoy a peaceful cruise on Lake Ashi. Continue by local train to Odawara before checking in at your ryokan hotel, where dinner will be served.

    Overnight in Hotel Pax Yoshino (or similar)

  • Day 4: Hakone to Takayama (B)

    This morning after breakfast, transfer to Odawara Station via public transport and board the bullet train to Nagoya. After a quick snack or Ekiben at the station (own expense), continue on the scenic limited express train to Takayama. Upon arrival, explore the charming Sanmachi Old Town district, known for its preserved wooden buildings, craft shops, cozy cafes, and traditional sake breweries.

    Overnight in Takayama Ou’an Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 5: Takayama (B)

    Start your day with a visit to the lively Miyagawa Morning Market, followed by a tour of Takayama Jinya, a historical government building. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace —consider visiting Hidano Sato, the Festival Float Exhibition Hall, or taking a scenic day trip to the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawago.

    Overnight in Takayama Ou’an Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 6: Takayama to Kyoto (B)

    Pack an overnight bag, your luggage will be transferred directly to your Kyoto hotel and will arrive the next day. Travel by limited express train to Nagoya, then continue on the bullet train to Kyoto. After some free time for lunch (own expense) at Kyoto Station, you can drop your bags at the hotel before heading out to explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 7: Kyoto (B)

    Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, followed by a tour of the historic Tenryu-ji Temple. Enjoy a peaceful walk across the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge before having some free time for lunch (own expense). Later, head to the famous Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion using the local tram or bus, and return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 8: Kyoto (B)

    Travel by local train to Nara, where you’ll stroll through Nara Deer Park and visit the impressive Todaiji Temple to see the Great Buddha. After a lunch break (own expense) at Higashimuki and Mochidono Shopping Street, continue by train to Horyu-ji Temple, known as the world’s oldest wooden structure.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 9: Kyoto (B/D)

    Visit the historic Kiyomizu Dera Temple and wander through the charming Ninen Zaka and Kiyomizu Zaka streets. After a short guided tour of Nishiki Market, enjoy some free time before meeting your guide again for an evening stroll through Kyoto’s Gion District. Conclude the day with a special dinner accompanied by a Maiko or Geisha.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 10: Kyoto Departure (B)

    After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel before check-out. Make your own way to Kyoto Station and onward to the airport for your departure, concluding your wonderful journey. As your adventure comes to an end, take with you unforgettable memories—from the bustling streets of Tokyo and peaceful serenity of Hakone, to the traditional charm of Takayama and the timeless beauty of Kyoto.

  • Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

    Welcome to Tokyo! Your adventure begins upon arrival at either Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your friendly assistant guide at the arrival gate. From there, board the airport bus for a comfortable transfer into Tokyo, with your ticket included. Once you arrive at the designated bus stop, it’s just a short walk of less than 10 minutes to your hotel, where you can settle in and enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 2: Tokyo (B/L)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a quick tour briefing before setting out to explore Tokyo.

    Travel by local train to the historic Asakusa district and visit the famous Senso-ji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most iconic Buddhist temples. Stroll along lively Nakamise Street, lined with traditional shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and crafts. If time permits, you may also squeeze in a visit to nearby Kappabashi Kitchen Street, renowned for its specialty cookware, kitchenware, and realistic food displays.

    At approximately 1:00 PM, enjoy an entertaining sumo show accompanied by a delicious lunch featuring either traditional Chanko hotpot or Tonkatsu. The experience and lunch are included and are subject to availability.

    After lunch, continue to the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, a tranquil Shinto sanctuary surrounded by a lush forest in the heart of Tokyo.

    Return to your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM.

    Please note The sumo show is subject to availability. During peak travel seasons, a taxi or private car will be used for today’s sightseeing.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D)

    At 8:45 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby. Your main luggage will be transferred ahead to your Takayama hotel and will arrive the following day. The luggage transfer service is included, so please prepare a smaller overnight bag with the items you will need in Hakone.

    Depart Tokyo by private car and travel to Hakone, one of Japan’s most popular hot spring resorts, renowned for its relaxing onsen, scenic views of Mount Fuji, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

    Arrive at Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic area known for its steaming vents, sulfurous landscape, and famous black eggs. From here, board the Hakone Ropeway and travel approximately 15 minutes to Togendai, near the shores of Lake Ashi. Your ropeway ticket is included.

    Next, enjoy a scenic 20–25-minute cruise across Lake Ashi, with the cruise ticket also included. At approximately 4:00 PM, check in to your ryokan-style hotel. This evening, enjoy a traditional Japanese Kaiseki-style dinner and take the opportunity to relax in the hotel’s onsen, or Japanese hot spring bath.

    Overnight in Hotel Pax Yoshino (or similar)

  • Day 4: Hakone to Takayama (B)

    At 8:30 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and transfer to Odawara Station using public transportation.

    From Odawara, travel to Takayama using a combination of bullet train (Shinkansen) and limited express train, with the required train tickets included.

    Arrive in Takayama at approximately 2:15 PM and begin exploring the charming Sanmachi Old Town district. This beautifully preserved historic area is known for its traditional wooden buildings, local craft shops, inviting cafés, and sake breweries, offering a wonderful introduction to the atmosphere of this picturesque mountain town.

    Arrive at your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM and check in for the evening.

    Overnight in Takayama Ou’an Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 5: Takayama (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and set out on a walking tour of Takayama.

    Begin with a visit to the lively Miyagawa Morning Market, where stalls offer local produce, regional specialties, snacks, and handmade goods.

    Continue to Takayama Jinya, a fascinating historic government building dating from the Edo period and offering an insight into Takayama’s history and administration. Admission is included.

    Following your guided sightseeing, the remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at your own pace. You may wish to visit Hidano Sato, an open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof farmhouses; explore the Festival Float Exhibition Hall; or even take an independent day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed village of Shirakawago.

    Overnight in Takayama Ou’an Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 6: Takayama to Kyoto (B)

    At 8:30 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby. Your main luggage will be transferred directly to your Kyoto hotel and will arrive the following day. The luggage transfer service is included, so please prepare a smaller bag with the items you will need until your main luggage arrives.

    Travel from Takayama using a combination of limited express train and bullet train to Kyoto.

    Arrive at approximately 1:30–2:00 PM and enjoy some free time for lunch at Kyoto Station if needed. You may also leave your smaller luggage at the hotel before heading out for your afternoon sightseeing.

    Later, visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates forming pathways that wind up the mountainside.

    After exploring the shrine, return to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 7: Kyoto (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and set out to explore some of western Kyoto’s most celebrated sights using public transportation.

    Begin with a visit to the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo creates one of Kyoto’s most distinctive and atmospheric landscapes.

    Continue to the historic Tenryu-ji Temple, one of Kyoto’s important Zen temples, renowned for its beautiful garden and surrounding mountain scenery. Admission is included.

    Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll across the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, one of the best-known landmarks in the Arashiyama district. Enjoy some free time for lunch at your own expense before continuing to Kinkakuji, the magnificent Golden Pavilion.

    Travel to Kinkakuji via the local Randen tram or bus and admire the temple’s famous gold-covered exterior reflected in the surrounding pond. Admission is included.

    Return to your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 8: Kyoto (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide at Kyoto Station and board a local train for the approximately one-hour journey to Nara. Your train ticket is included, with non-reserved seating.

    Upon arrival, walk through famous Nara Deer Park, where friendly sika deer roam freely among visitors, before continuing to Todaiji Temple.

    At approximately 10:45 AM, visit Todaiji and admire its magnificent Great Buddha, one of Japan’s most impressive Buddhist statues, housed within the enormous Daibutsuden Hall. Admission is included.

    Afterwards, enjoy a break for lunch at your own expense around the Higashimuki and Mochidono shopping streets, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants, cafés, shops, and local specialties.

    Return to Kyoto in the afternoon and, depending on timing and local conditions, visit another sightseeing spot of choice before returning to your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 9: Kyoto (B/D)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and travel by local bus to the historic Higashiyama district.

    Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most celebrated landmarks, renowned for its impressive wooden stage and sweeping views across the city. Admission is included.

    Afterwards, explore the atmospheric streets of Ninen Zaka and Kiyomizu Zaka, lined with beautifully preserved traditional buildings, cafés, craft shops, and souvenir stores.

    Continue to Nishiki Market for a brief guided introduction to Kyoto’s famous food market. Following the tour, enjoy some free time to explore the market and surrounding area at your own pace.

    Later, meet your guide again and enjoy an evening walk through Kyoto’s atmospheric Gion District on the way to your dinner venue, which may be located around Pontocho, Shinbashi, or Hanamikoji.

    Conclude the day with a memorable dinner in the company of a Maiko or Geisha. This special included experience offers a fascinating insight into Kyoto’s refined traditional performing arts and hospitality culture.

    Please note: During peak travel seasons, a taxi or private car will be used for the transfers to Kiyomizu and back to the hotel.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 10: Kyoto Departure (B)

    After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely final morning at your hotel before checking out.

    Make your own way to Kyoto Station and continue onward to the airport for your departing flight.

    Thank you for joining us on this wonderful journey through Japan. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of Tokyo’s vibrant streets and historic temples, Hakone’s volcanic landscapes and relaxing hot springs, Takayama’s traditional mountain-town charm, and the timeless cultural treasures of Kyoto and Nara.

  • 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

    - Discover Tokyo’s captivating blend of ancient tradition and modern energy, exploring the iconic Senso-ji Temple, vibrant Nakamise Street, and the tranquil Meiji Jingu Shrine in one immersive day.
    - Relax in Hakone’s rejuvenating hot springs amid dramatic volcanic landscapes, interspersed with breathtaking lake cruises and panoramic views from the iconic Hakone Ropeway.
    - Stroll through Takayama’s preserved Sanmachi Old Town, enjoy its lively morning market, and access cultural depth with visits to historic government buildings and authentic sake breweries.
    - Immerse in Kyoto’s serene elegance and rich heritage by touring its bamboo groves, golden temple, and ancient shrines, culminating in a refined evening accompanied by a Maiko or Geisha.

  • Accommodation

    9 nights in 4 star hotels


  • Meals

    Daily breakfast
    1 local lunch
    1 local dinner

  • Transport

    High-Speed Trains as specified in Itinerary
    Arrival Airport Limousine Bus
    Public Transport fare as specified

  • Touring

    English speaking tour guide
    Entrance fees for locations specified
    Luggage Courier Service as specified

SKU: SGJ032-JP Categories: , Tags: , ,

Departure Dates

START DAYEND DAYTWIN ROOMSINGLE ROOM
Sunday, 06 September 2026Tuesday, 15 September 202638834431
Sunday, 27 September 2026Tuesday, 06 October 202638834431
Sunday, 18 October 2026Tuesday, 27 October 202642644812
Sunday, 08 November 2026Tuesday, 17 November 202642644812
Sunday, 22 November 2026Tuesday, 01 December 202642644812
Sunday, 21 February 2027Tuesday, 02 March 202738834431
Sunday, 14 March 2027Tuesday, 23 March 202744014949
Sunday, 04 April 2027Tuesday, 13 April 202744014949
Sunday, 18 April 2027Tuesday, 27 April 202744014949
Sunday, 16 May 2027Tuesday, 25 May 202747095504
Sunday, 06 June 2027Tuesday, 15 June 202746115406
Sunday, 04 July 2027Tuesday, 13 July 202746115406
Sunday, 25 July 2027Tuesday, 03 August 202746115406
Sunday, 15 August 2027Tuesday, 24 August 202746115406
Sunday, 05 September 2027Tuesday, 14 September 202746115406
Sunday, 26 September 2027Tuesday, 05 October 202746115406
Sunday, 17 October 2027Tuesday, 26 October 202747095504
Sunday, 07 November 2027Tuesday, 16 November 202750045798
Sunday, 21 November 2027Tuesday, 30 November 202750045798
Sunday, 20 February 2028Tuesday, 29 February 202846115406
Sunday, 12 March 2028Tuesday, 21 March 202850045798
Sunday, 02 April 2028Tuesday, 11 April 202850045798

Booking Request Form

All Destinations

  • All Destinations by Region
  • Africa
  • Asia
  • Caribbean
  • Europe
  • Indian Ocean
  • Latin America
  • Middle East
  • North America
  • Pacific

TRAVEL INDOCHINA T/A INSIDER JOURNEYS UK
12 Melcombe Place
Marylebone, London, NW1 6JJ
+44 186 526 8940
info@insiderjourneys.co.uk

INSIDER JOURNEYS AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND
320 Pitt Street
Sydney New South Wales 2000
+61 1300 138 755
info@insiderjourneys.com.au

INSIDER JOURNEYS USA
125 Kingstone Dr. Ste. 107
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
info@insiderjourneys.us

INSIDER JOURNEYS CANADA
#650 – 997 Seymour Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 3M1
+1 855 663 3736
info@insiderjourneys.ca

INSIDER JOURNEYS EUROPE
Parkstrasse 39
82065 Baierbrunn
info@insiderjourneys.de

INSIDER JOURNEYS IRELAND
Church Lane
Midleton, Cork
info@insiderjourneys.ie

INSIDER JOURNEYS SOUTH AFRICA
812 Park Street
Arcadia, Gauteng, Pretoria
info@insiderjourneys.co.za

Insider Journeys
Logo
Compare items
  • Total (0)
Compare
0

Thank you!

One of our Journey Designer will contact you shortly to confirm the details.