Japan Uncovered

Day 1  Osaka    
Arrive in the bustling city of Osaka and transfer to your hotel.      

Day 2  Osaka    
This morning explore Nara, Japan’s historic capital, before returning to Osaka to visit the impressive Osaka Castle. Finish the evening cruising along the Yodogawa River.    

Days 3-4  Osaka to Hiroshima  
Journey to Hiroshima, stopping en route at the magnificent 17th Century Himeji Castle and a traditional garden. The following day reflect on the city’s history at the Peace Memorial Museum and Park, before taking the ferry to the stunning island of Miyajima to see the Itsukushima Shrine.    

Days 5-6  Hiroshima to Kyoto  
Travel by bullet train to enchanting Kyoto. Visit Ryoanji Temple, home to a spectacular zen garden and Kinkakuji Temple, also known as ‘Golden Pavilion’. On day 6, participate in a traditional tea ceremony at a 16th Century Buddhist Temple and visit the renowned Fushimi Inari shrine, famous for its 10,000 vermilion torii gates.    

Day 7  Kyoto to Kanazawa    
Travel by bus to the picturesque town of Kanazawa. Wander through the serene garden of Kenroku en, before viewing the marvellous art collection of the Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.  

Day 8  Kanazawa to Takayama    
Visit a historic Japanese home before continuing to Gokayama for a washi (Japanese paper) making course. Later, explore the 300 year old Gassho-style Wada House and travel to Takayama.    

Day 9  Takayama    
Discover the rich culture and history of this charming town with a visit to the Miyagawa morning market. Browse local handicrafts and fresh produce and explore the narrow streets, lined with beautifully preserved inns, tea houses and shops.    

Days 10-11  Takayama to Nagano    
Journey to Matsumoto and its formidable 16th Century castle. Later, learn about Japanese spices at a wasabi farm and miso house before arriving in Nagano. On day 11 witness snow monkeys play in a hot spring pool at the Jigokudani Monkey Park.    

Day 12  Nagano to Mishima    
This morning, travel to the Fuji Five Lakes area, you’ll ascend to the fifth station for magnificent views before visiting the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to view the elaborate dyed silk creations of artist Kubota Itchiku.  

Day 13  Mishima to Tokyo    
Drift along the peaceful waters of Lake Ashinoko before soaring high over the hilltops on the Hakone Ropeway. Discover the dramatic natural hotsprings of Mount Hakone before arriving in dynamic Tokyo.      

Days 14-15  Tokyo    
Spend two days exploring Japan’s diverse capital. Visit the Imperial Palace East Garden, Meiji Shrine and the famous Shibuya Crossing. On day 15 head to the vibrant Asakusa district and Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. The final evening enjoy a traditional yakata boat for a delightful dinner cruise.    

Day 16  Tokyo    
Your tour comes to an end after breakfast before transferring to the airport for your onward journey.