Japan´s Timeless Splendours

Duration

13 days

On specific dates

on Sunday

Guaranteed

4 travellers

Group size

14 travellers

From GBP £5,078

WHAT TO EXPECT

This comprehensive tour offers an immersive exploration of Japan’s diverse cultural and natural landscapes, traversing from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo through the elegant streets and gardens of Kanazawa and Kyoto, onward to the volcanic and onsen-rich island of Kyushu, concluding in the vibrant city of Osaka. Travel combines high-speed train journeys, local transportation, guided excursions, and independent exploration to provide a balanced and enriching experience. Highlights include historic temples, traditional markets, serene gardens, and volcanic scenery alongside cultural insights in folk museums and iconic shrines. Carefully paced to accommodate both guided experiences and personal discovery, this itinerary is designed to meet the expectations of discerning travelers seeking a well-rounded appreciation of Japan’s heritage, landscapes, and contemporary urban charm.

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Japan´s Timeless Splendours

  • Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

    Arrive in Tokyo at Narita or Haneda Airport and be greeted at the arrival gate by your assistant guide. Board a comfortable airport limousine bus for a convenient transfer into the city. Upon arrival at the designated bus stop, it’s just a short walk of less than 10 minutes to your hotel, where you can check in and begin settling into the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 2: Tokyo (B)

    Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a brief orientation, then set out for Asakusa to visit Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, and browse the traditional snack and souvenir stalls along Nakamise Street. Drift past riverside landmarks on a scenic Sumida River cruise before wandering Hamarikyu Garden, a former feudal retreat famed for its tidal ponds, teahouse, and landscaped pines. Break for lunch (own expense) at Tsukiji Outer Market or a nearby restaurant to sample fresh sushi and street bites. In the afternoon, feel the city’s pulse at Shibuya Crossing, the world famous “scramble” where thousands stream across in every direction.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 3: Tokyo to Kanazawa (B)

    Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and send your main luggage ahead to your Kyoto hotel, carrying a small 2-night bag for Kanazawa. Board the bullet train to Kanazawa and, on arrival, dive into Omicho Market—Kanazawa’s lively food hub—where stalls brim with just caught seafood, seasonal produce, and local specialties like kaisendon, grilled crab, and sweet gold leaf treats (lunch at your own pace). In the afternoon, visit the D. T. Suzuki Museum, a serene, minimalist space dedicated to the philosopher who introduced Zen to the West; pause at the Water Mirror Garden and Contemplation Space to experience its meditative design. Later, transfer to your hotel for check in and an evening at leisure.

    Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)

  • Day 4: Kanazawa (B)

    Stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s finest landscape gardens, with meandering paths, reflective ponds, stone lanterns, and teahouses framed by seasonal blossoms and views toward Kanazawa Castle Park. Continue into the atmospheric Higashi Chaya gai Geisha District to tour the Shima teahouse, a beautifully preserved ochaya showcasing tatami rooms, antique instruments, and elegant tea utensils. Enjoy free time to wander the wooden lanes, browse craft boutiques, and sample Kanazawa treats—perhaps gold leaf soft serve or fresh seafood bowls for lunch (own expense). Round out the day at the Samurai Residence of Kurando Terashima, an intimate Edo period home noted for its serene inner garden and refined interiors that reveal the lifestyle of a mid rank samurai.

    Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)

  • Day 5: Kanazawa to Kyōto (B)

    Meet your guide and board the bullet train from Kanazawa to Tsuruga, then connect to the Limited Express train to Kyoto. On arrival at Kyoto Station, drop your bags at the hotel if needed and set out for Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its endless tunnels of vermilion torii gates and atmospheric forested trails. Wander the lively sando approach lined with food stalls and shops, with free time to sample local bites and browse at your own pace. Return to central Kyoto to check in and unwind, ready for an evening at leisure amid the city’s lantern-lit lanes and timeless temples.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 6: Kyōto (B)

    Begin at Kiyomizu dera Temple, famed for its soaring wooden stage, hillside vistas over Kyoto, and the Otowa Waterfall for auspicious sips. Continue into the preserved lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, where traditional townhouses, craft shops, and teahouses make a perfect setting for a leisurely lunch and browsing. In the afternoon, wander the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest along towering groves that sway above quiet pathways. Return to central Kyoto for an atmospheric stroll through the Gion district’s narrow lanes and wooden machiya, ending at Kenninji—Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple—renowned for serene gardens, treasured artworks, and the dramatic twin dragon ceiling.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 7: Kyōto to Fukuoka (B)

    Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and walk to Kyoto Station, sending your main luggage ahead to Beppu and carrying a 2-night bag for your stay in Fukuoka and Kumamoto. Board the Nozomi bullet train to Hakata and arrive around midday, with time to explore Hakata Station’s many eateries for lunch at your own pace. In the afternoon, step into the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum to discover Meiji–Taishō era town life, traditional crafts, and seasonal festival displays. Continue to nearby Kushida Shrine—Fukuoka’s beloved guardian shrine—known for its grand Hakata Gion Yamakasa floats, ornate carvings, and tranquil precincts tucked amid the city’s bustle.

    Overnight in Hotel Monte Hermana Fukuoka (or similar)

  • Day 8: Fukuoka to Kumamoto (B)

    Ride the Shinkansen to Kumamoto and meet your driver for a scenic journey into Aso Kuju National Park. Take in sweeping views from Mt. Aso’s viewpoint, overlooking one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas and the vast grasslands that ring the active peaks—an unforgettable window into Kyushu’s dramatic geology. After time to soak up the panorama and capture photos, return to Kumamoto to explore Kumamoto Castle, a formidable hilltop fortress famed for its elegant black and white towers, massive stone ramparts, and beautifully restored interiors that trace samurai history. Conclude the day back at your hotel, with the evening free to relax or sample local specialties.

    Overnight in ONE STATION HOTEL KUMAMOTO (or similar)

  • Day 9: Kumamoto to Beppu (B)

    Begin with a scenic visit to Takachiho Gorge, where sheer basalt cliffs and the cascading Manai-no-taki waterfall frame emerald waters; enjoy free time to stroll the riverside path, rent a rowboat if you wish, and grab lunch at a local café (own expense). Continue to Amano Iwato Shrine, linked to the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu, and, time permitting, walk to the atmospheric Amano Yasukawara Cave, marked by a stone torii and thousands of stacked wishing stones. In the late afternoon, transfer to Beppu and check in for the evening.

    Overnight in REX HOTEL BEPPU (or similar)

  • Day 10: Beppu (B/ L)

    Ride the Mt. Tsurumi Ropeway to panoramic observatory views over Beppu and the surrounding mountains. Continue with an onsen steam cooking class, preparing local specialties with natural geothermal steam and enjoying your creations for lunch. Afterward, delve into Beppu’s hot spring culture at the Jigoku Onsen Museum, then visit Umijigoku, the striking “Sea Hell,” famed for its cobalt blue boiling pond and landscaped gardens. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon to unwind in the onsen, and cap the day with dinner at a nearby restaurant of your choice (own expense).

    Overnight in REX HOTEL BEPPU (or similar)

  • Day 11: Beppu to Osaka (B)

    Your main luggage will be transferred directly to your hotel in Osaka, arriving the following day for your convenience. Enjoy a full day at your own pace, with no guide, and take advantage of Beppu’s famous onsen variety—from soothing sand and mud baths to steamy public or private hot springs. For something different, try hands-on activities at Space Beppu, or venture out on a scenic day trip to the charming town of Yufuin. Later in the afternoon, meet your guide for a local bus transfer to the port, then board the ferry for a relaxing evening cruise. While dinner isn’t included, you can savor a meal onboard the ferry’s restaurant as you enjoy the tranquil journey ahead.

    Overnight in Ferry Sunflower (or similar)

  • Day 12: Osaka (D)

    Start your day with breakfast available on the ferry (own expense) before arriving at Osaka Port early morning. After checking in and dropping your luggage at the hotel, enjoy some free time to relax at a local café or unwind in the hotel lobby. Later, visit the iconic Osaka Castle and its beautiful surrounding gardens, followed by a trip to the Umeda Sky Building Observatory for stunning city views. Return to the hotel in the afternoon to relax before heading out for an evening stroll through the vibrant Dotonbori district. The day concludes with a memorable farewell dinner at a lively Dotonbori Izakaya, where you’ll experience authentic local flavors and atmosphere.

    Overnight in Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba (or similar)

  • Day 13: Osaka Departure (B)

    On your final day in Osaka, enjoy a leisurely morning to soak in the city’s atmosphere before checking out of your hotel. Take your time to make your way to the station and continue onward to the airport for your departure. As your incredible journey comes to a close, carry with you lasting memories of Japan’s vibrant urban energy, serene temples, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless traditions. Thank you for traveling with us—may these experiences inspire and stay with you long after you return home.

  • Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

    Arrive in Tokyo at either Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport, where you’ll be greeted at the arrival gate by your assistant guide. From there, board a comfortable airport bus for a convenient transfer into the city, 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 begin enjoying Tokyo at your own pace.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 2: Tokyo (B)

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

    Begin in the historic Asakusa district with a visit to Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, followed by a stroll through lively Nakamise Street, where traditional shops sell local snacks, crafts, and souvenirs.

    Next, enjoy a scenic 35-minute cruise along the Sumida River, with your cruise ticket included. Continue to Hamarikyu Garden, a former feudal retreat known for its beautifully landscaped grounds, tidal ponds, and peaceful setting amid Tokyo’s modern skyline. Admission is included.

    Take some time for lunch at your own expense, either at Tsukiji Outer Market or at a nearby restaurant.

    In the afternoon, experience the energy of the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of Tokyo’s most iconic urban landmarks.

    Return to your hotel at approximately 4:00 PM.

    Please note: During peak travel seasons, some train journeys may be replaced with taxi transfers.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 3: Tokyo to Kanazawa (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby. Your main luggage will be transferred ahead to your hotel in Kyoto, so please prepare an overnight bag with everything you will need for your two-night stay in Kanazawa. The luggage transfer service is included.

    Travel from Tokyo to Kanazawa aboard the bullet train, with your Shinkansen ticket included.

    Upon arrival, enjoy some free time at Omicho Market, Kanazawa’s lively food market, where you can browse stalls filled with fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and local specialties while choosing lunch at your own expense.

    In the afternoon, visit the D.T. Suzuki Museum, a serene and minimalist museum dedicated to the influential Buddhist philosopher and writer. Admission is included.

    Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)

  • Day 4: Kanazawa (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart for a full day of sightseeing in Kanazawa using public transportation.

    Begin with a visit to Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, known for its elegant ponds, stone lanterns, bridges, teahouses, and seasonal beauty. Admission is included.

    Continue to the historic Shima Old Geisha House in the atmospheric Higashi Chaya-gai Geisha District. Step inside this beautifully preserved former teahouse to gain an insight into Kanazawa’s traditional geisha culture. Admission is included.

    Enjoy some free time in Higashi Chaya-gai to explore its traditional wooden streets and choose lunch at your own expense.

    Later, visit the Samurai Residence of Kurando Terashima, an intimate historic home that offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and refined aesthetics of a samurai family. Admission is included.

    Return to your hotel at approximately 4:00 PM.

    Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)

  • Day 5: Kanazawa to Kyōto (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart Kanazawa for Kyoto using public transportation.

    Travel by a combination of bullet train and limited express train, with the required tickets included. Upon arrival in Kyoto, you may drop your bag at the hotel if needed before continuing by local train to the Fushimi area.

    Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the wooded mountainside. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore the lively sando approach, where you can browse local shops, sample snacks, and choose lunch at your own expense.

    Return to your hotel by local train and check in at approximately 4:00 PM.

    Overnight in Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo (or similar)

  • Day 6: Kyōto (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart for sightseeing in Kyoto using public transportation.

    Begin with a visit to 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.

    Continue into the beautifully preserved streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, where traditional wooden townhouses, cafés, craft shops, and souvenir stores create an atmospheric setting for exploring and enjoying lunch at your own expense.

    Afterwards, walk through the historic Gion District before continuing to Kenninji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple. Explore its tranquil grounds, elegant gardens, and renowned artworks, with admission included.

    Please note: During peak travel seasons, taxi or private-car transfers will be arranged for portions of today’s sightseeing, including the return to the hotel.

    Overnight in Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo (or similar)

  • Day 7: Kyōto to Fukuoka (B)

    At 8:30 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and walk to Kyoto Station.

    Your main luggage will be transferred directly to your hotel in Beppu, so please prepare an overnight bag with everything you will need for your stay in Fukuoka and Kumamoto. The luggage transfer service is included.

    Board the Nozomi bullet train to Hakata Station, arriving around noon.

    Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore Hakata Station and choose lunch at your own expense. In the afternoon, visit the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum, where you can learn about traditional local life, crafts, and culture. Admission is included. Afterwards, continue to nearby Kushida Shrine, one of Fukuoka’s most important and beloved shrines.

    At approximately 4:00 PM, check in to your hotel and enjoy a short rest.

    At 6:00 PM, meet your guide again and head out to explore Fukuoka’s famous Yatai food stalls. Your guide can help recommend local specialties and offer advice on ordering. Dinner is not included, and the remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

    Overnight in Hotel Monte Hermana Fukuoka (or similar)

  • Day 8: Fukuoka to Kumamoto (B)

    At 8:30 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and travel by bullet train to Kumamoto Station.

    Upon arrival, transfer to a private car and continue toward the Mt. Aso area for a full day of sightseeing.

    Visit the Mt. Aso View Point and take in the dramatic scenery of one of Japan’s most famous volcanic regions. Admission is included. Enjoy some free time for lunch at your own expense while in the area. Afterwards, travel by private car back to Kumamoto City and visit impressive Kumamoto Castle, known for its imposing stone walls, elegant towers, and important samurai history. Admission is included.

    Check in to your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM.

    Overnight in KOKO HOTEL Premier Kumamoto (or similar)

  • Day 9: Kumamoto to Beppu (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart by private car for Takachiho.

    Explore spectacular Takachiho Gorge, where towering basalt cliffs surround the emerald Gokase River. Enjoy free time to walk through the area and choose lunch at your own expense.

    Continue to Amano Iwato Shrine, an important site associated with Japanese mythology and the legend of the sun goddess Amaterasu.

    If time allows, also visit the atmospheric Amano Yasukawara Cave, known for its spiritual setting and countless stacked stones left by visitors.

    Afterwards, continue by private car to Beppu and check in to your hotel.

    Overnight in AMANEK BEPPU YULA-RE Beppu Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 10: Beppu (B/ L)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart by private car for a full day of sightseeing in Beppu.

    Begin with a ride on the Mt. Tsurumi Ropeway and enjoy panoramic views from the observatory. Your ropeway ticket is included.

    Next, take part in a traditional onsen steam-cooking experience, using Beppu’s natural geothermal steam to prepare your meal. Enjoy the food you have prepared for lunch, with the experience and lunch included.

    In the afternoon, visit the Jigoku Onsen Museum to learn more about Beppu’s unique hot-spring culture and geothermal landscape. Admission is included.

    Continue to Umijigoku, or the “Sea Blue Hell,” famous for its striking cobalt-blue geothermal pond and landscaped surroundings. Admission is included.

    Overnight in AMANEK BEPPU YULA-RE Beppu Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 11: Beppu to Osaka (B)

    Enjoy most of the day at leisure without a guide.

    Your main luggage will be transferred ahead to your hotel in Osaka and will arrive the following day.

    You may wish to spend the day experiencing some of Beppu’s famous onsen, including sand baths, mud baths, steam baths, private onsen, or local public bathhouses. Alternatively, you could join a hands-on activity at Space Beppu, subject to availability, or take an independent day trip to the picturesque town of Yufuin.

    At 4:45 PM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and transfer to the port by local bus. Your bus ticket is included.

    At 6:45 PM, board the Ferry SunFlower for your overnight journey to Osaka. Your ferry ticket is included.

    Dinner is available at the onboard restaurant at your own expense.

    Overnight in Ferry Sunflower (or similar)

  • Day 12: Osaka (D)

    Breakfast is available onboard the ferry this morning at your own expense.

    Arrive at Osaka Port at approximately 6:35 AM. Please note that the ferry arrival time is subject to change.

    After disembarking, leave your luggage at the hotel if needed, then enjoy approximately one hour of free time to relax with a coffee at a local café or unwind in the hotel lobby.

    Later, visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding garden, with admission included.

    Continue to the Umeda Sky Building Observatory for panoramic views across Osaka. Admission is included.

    In the early afternoon, check in to your hotel and enjoy some time to rest.

    At 5:00 PM, set out for an evening stroll through lively Dotonbori on the way to your dinner venue.

    Conclude your journey with a two-hour farewell dinner at a Dotonbori izakaya, with the dinner experience included.

    Please note: During peak travel seasons, a private car will be arranged for today’s sightseeing between approximately 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

    Overnight in Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba (or similar)

  • Day 13: Osaka Departure (B)

    Enjoy breakfast before checking out of your hotel.

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

    Thank you for joining us on this memorable journey through Japan. We hope you leave with wonderful memories of Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods, Kanazawa’s gardens and historic districts, Kyoto’s timeless cultural treasures, Kyushu’s dramatic landscapes and hot springs, and the lively atmosphere of Osaka.

Tour Images

Inclusions

  • Insider Experiences

    - Explore Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district and enjoy a scenic river cruise, blending ancient temples with modern cityscape views for a captivating urban immersion.
    - Discover Kanazawa’s refined gardens and samurai heritage, experiencing tranquil strolls through Kenrokuen Garden and intimate insights at a preserved samurai residence.
    - Experience the volcanic grandeur of Mt. Aso and the spiritual ambiance of Amano Iwato Shrine, connecting nature’s raw power with Japan’s mythological roots.
    - Conclude with Osaka’s vibrant energy, from panoramic city views atop Umeda Sky Building to a captivating evening walk through the illuminated streets of Dotonbori.

  • Accommodation

    11 nights in 4 star hotels
    Overnight on Ferry as specified

  • 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

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Departure Dates

START DATEEND DATEPRICE TWIN ROOMPRICE SINGLE ROOM
Sunday, 20 September 2026Friday, 02 October 202652995978
Sunday, 11 October 2026Friday, 23 October 202650785757
Sunday, 01 November 2026Friday, 13 November 202654586138
Sunday, 22 November 2026Friday, 04 December 202654586138
Sunday, 06 December 2026Friday, 18 December 202650785757
Sunday, 07 March 2027Friday, 19 March 202750785757
Sunday, 28 March 2027Friday, 09 April 202757146394
Sunday, 18 April 2027Friday, 30 April 202757146394
Sunday, 25 April 2027Friday, 07 May 202757146394
Sunday, 23 May 2027Friday, 04 June 202755746431
Sunday, 13 June 2027Friday, 25 June 202754416297
Sunday, 18 July 2027Friday, 30 July 202754416297
Sunday, 08 August 2027Friday, 20 August 202756646520
Sunday, 29 August 2027Friday, 10 September 202754416297
Sunday, 19 September 2027Friday, 01 October 202756646520
Sunday, 10 October 2027Friday, 22 October 202755746431
Sunday, 31 October 2027Friday, 12 November 202760656921
Sunday, 21 November 2027Friday, 03 December 202760656921
Sunday, 28 November 2027Friday, 10 December 202760656921
Sunday, 05 March 2028Friday, 17 March 202855746431
Sunday, 26 March 2028Friday, 07 April 202860656921
Sunday, 16 April 2028Friday, 28 April 202860656921
Sunday, 23 April 2028Friday, 05 May 202860656921

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