Today you’ll touch down in Tokyo, where you’ll be met by our friendly local team, who’ll provide all your documentation, including pre-booked train tickets for your journey across Japan. They’ll assist with your transfer to your city-centre hotel, where you can relax or begin to explore Tokyo at your own pace. From the shimmering neon signs of Shinjuku to the buzzing energy of Shibuya Crossing – the world’s busiest! – there’s no shortage of iconic sights to dive into.

This morning, join your local guide to explore Tokyo’s most famous landmarks. Visit Sensoji Temple, the city’s oldest temple, set against the backdrop of traditional markets. Learn about the city’s history and culture as you wander its streets. The afternoon is yours to explore, perhaps stroll through the peaceful Meiji Shrine, shop in Ginza, or visit the quirky boutiques of Harajuku. We’ll be happy to recommend the best spots to suit your interests, so don’t hesitate to ask!

We’ve left today free for whatever you choose, but we’d suggest a day trip beyond the city. Head north to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site tucked away in the mountains, packed full of ornate shrines and natural beauty. Alternatively, travel south to Kamakura, a coastal town home to the iconic Great Buddha and serene temples. If you’d rather stay in Tokyo, the city’s endless attractions mean there’s always something new to discover.

Travel by train to Matsumoto today, a picturesque castle town in the Nagano region, surrounded by mountains. Visit the historic Matsumoto Castle, known as the “Crow Castle” thanks to its striking black exterior, or stroll through the city’s charming streets, dotted with sake breweries and craft shops. Matsumoto offers a relaxing contrast to Tokyo’s fast-paced hubbub, it's the perfect spot to unwind.

Spend today immersing yourself in the beauty of the Kiso Valley. Take a hike between the preserved Edo-era towns of Tsumago and Magome, where wooden merchant houses and cobbled streets will have you feeling as though you’ve woken up in a Japan of the past. Alternatively, we’d recommend venturing out to Kamikochi, a stunning alpine region, or Yamanouchi, home to the famous snow monkeys that bathe in the hot springs.

This morning, you’ll hop on a scenic bus ride through the rolling countryside to Takayama, a quaint town known for its traditional wooden architecture and vibrant markets. The old town here is one of our favourites in all of Japan. Explore on foot, sampling regional specialities like melt-in-your-mouth Hida beef (a favourite of ours!) and browsing handcrafted souvenirs. 

After breakfast, today you’ll be treated to a guided walk through Takayama’s charming old town, where narrow streets are lined with beautifully preserved wooden houses. Stop at the morning markets, sampling regional delicacies and soaking in the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to try sake (rice wine) at one of the traditional breweries, many of which have been crafting their brews for over a century. This afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Higashiyama Yuhodo, a peaceful path lined with temples.

Pick up an ekiben (bento lunchbox) at the station before today’s scenic train journey. Watch as green countryside and quaint villages roll by, before switching to a high-speed bullet train for the final stretch. You’ll arrive in Hiroshima this afternoon, a city that’s been transformed into a symbol of peace and resilience. The evening is yours to explore. Downtown Hiroshima offers excellent nightlife, shopping, and dining, with plenty of local specialities like okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) to try.

Hop on a bike today to explore Hiroshima’s major sights and landmarks, including Peace Memorial Park and Museum, the A-Bomb Dome, and other sites that tell the city’s poignant history. Learn how Hiroshima rebuilt itself as a vibrant, forward-thinking city, blasting into the future without ever losing the resilience of its past. We’ve left this afternoon free for you to continue exploring at your own pace. Choose to visit local galleries, relax in a serene garden, or simply soak in the atmosphere, there's plenty to do here.

Today, you’ll take a ferry to Miyajima Island, known for its iconic ‘floating’ torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine. Wander through peaceful forest trails, visit centuries-old shrines, and meet the island’s friendly deer, which roam freely through the streets. For an extra touch of adventure, add a kayaking tour around the torii gate. Spend the afternoon exploring the island’s mountainous landscape, with stunning views from Mount Misen.

Say goodbye to Hiroshima today and hop aboard the Shinkansen to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart. The journey is as much part of the experience as the destination, with beautiful countryside whizzing by. Once in Kyoto, the day is yours to enjoy. Explore traditional streets, tranquil gardens, or one of the city’s many temples, or let us recommend activities to help you make the most of your time in one of Japan’s most special and most-loved locations.

Spend the day exploring a selection of Kyoto’s thousand temples and shrines today, from the serene Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) to the vibrant Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its tunnel of red torii gates. Through our conversations before your holiday, we’ll be sure to craft a day that fits your interests to a ‘tea’ – perhaps a tranquil tea ceremony, an engaging samurai training session, or an artistic calligraphy workshop. Kyoto offers endless opportunities to connect with Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Your last full day in Japan is yours to spend however you wish. Kyoto itself offers so much to discover, or you could venture further afield by train. Osaka, with its buzzing food scene and modern attractions, or Nara, home to tame deer and UNESCO-listed temples, are both easy day trips. Whatever your interests, we’ll ensure your day is perfectly tailored to you.

Your time in Japan comes to an end today and it’s time to transfer to Kansai Airport for your flight home. From historic cities and sacred temples to breathtaking natural beauty, this yen-friendly journey has been a true immersion into the best of Japan. Until next time!