Ancient & Modern Japan

Day 1  Kyoto      
The trip starts in Kyoto, an atmospheric city amid beautiful hills. We gather for the first time at the hotel and enjoy a welcome briefing this evening.    

Day 2  Kyoto    
With more than 2,000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto is a treasure house of Japanese heritage and undoubtedly one of the most fascinating cities in Asia. Today, we have an introductory tour of the city. Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji temple.      

Day 3  Kyoto    
Today we make a day trip to the ancient capital of Japan, Nara. Visit impressive Unesco temples including Todai-ji. Return to Kyoto to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha and walk around historic Gion.

Day 4  Kyoto      
Free day in Kyoto. Relax in one of the many Zen gardens, walk the popular Philosopher’s Path or experience a traditional tea ceremony.  

Day 5  Kyoto    
Day trip to Hiroshima. Visit Peace Memorial Park and the pretty island of Miyajima.    

Day 6  Kyoto to Takayama      
Travelling by train through forested valleys, we make our way this morning to the peaceful and attractive old town of Takayama in the centre of the majestic Hida Mountains.    

Day 7  Takayama    
Orientation tour in Takayama and free day to explore the peaceful shrines and temples.    

Day 8  Takayama to Matsumoto    
Today we travel by express and local trains to the historic castle town of Matsumoto. En route, we visit the medieval village of Tsumago. We reach Matsumoto late afternoon, where we have time to relax and perhaps take a leisurely stroll after dinner to see the impressive castle by night.      

Day 9  Matsumoto to Yudanaka      
Visit Matsumoto Castle and travel by train to the spa town of Yudanaka, which has some fantastic natural hot springs.  

Day 10  Yudanaka to Tokyo    
See the much-loved snow monkeys before travelling by train to Tokyo. On arrival in Tokyo, we’ll transfer to our hotel and start exploring the bright lights of the big city at night.      

Day 11  Tokyo      
Optional trip to Hakone or to the lovely seaside town of Kamakura.

Day 12  Tokyo      
Today we have a guided tour of Tokyo. Making use of the highly efficient tube system, we can visit some of the main attractions including the lively Senso-ji Temple in the old entertainment district of Asakusa and Ueno (depending on season).

Day 13  Tokyo    
Free day for further exploration. Optional karaoke farewell night.    

Day 14  Tokyo      
Our Japanese adventure comes to end. Alternatively, if you’d like a bit more time to explore this energetic city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.