Journeys: Iconic Japan

Days 1-2  Tokyo  
Arrive and check into your hotel. On day 2 explore vibrant Tokyo by public transport. Later head to the buzzing Harajuku, a centre of Japanese pop culture, renowned for quirky fashion boutiques and themed cafes.        

Day 3  Tokyo      
This morning visit the largest fish and seafood market in the world, Toyosu Fish Market where you can learn about the fishing industry and join a sushi  making class.      

Day 4  Tokyo to Tsumago      
Take a train to a charming town of Tsumago, a protected cultural area where motorised vehicles are prohibited on the main street during the day to preserve its traditional feel. This evening enjoy an artfully presented dinner at a local minshuku where you also spend the night.        

Day 5  Tsumago to Kanazawa      
Continue by train to historic Kanazawa and explore the well-preserved samurai district. Learn about the lifestyle of Japan’s ancient, elite warrior class and visit the Nomura residence, the beautifully restored home of a wealthy samurai family.

Day 6  Kanazawa      
Visit the Myoryuji Temple, commonly known as the Ninja Temple. Take a stroll through the Higashi Chaya district, explore one of the traditional wooden houses and gain insights into geisha culture. Then visit a local craft studio to learn to paint chopsticks with gold leaf.        

Day 7  Kanazawa to Hiroshima      
Travel by bullet train to Hiroshima, where in the heart of the city you pay a visit to Peace Memorial Museum and Park, which commemorates the tragic atomic bombings of 1945.      

Day 8  Hiroshima      
Catch a ferry to Itsukushima Island to visit one of Japan’s most beautiful temples, the incredible Shinto shrine, which appears to float at high tide.  

Day 9  Hiroshima to Kyoto      
This morning explore the spectacular Himeji Castle. Later on, board a train to stunning Kyoto full of shrines and gardens to take a guided walk through the lantern-lined streets of the geisha district.  

Day 10  Kyoto      
Travel to the breathtaking Fushimi Inari shrine. Discover the ancient city of Nara, full of historic treasures and Japan’s oldest and largest temples, including Todaiji temple, home to the largest bronze Buddha in the world.  

Days 11-12  Kyoto      
This morning visit a local temple and meet a monk for a lesson in Zen meditation and calligraphy. Afterwards head to the shimmering Kinkakuji, the temple of the golden pavilion. Learn about the basics of samurai etiquette and the martial art of kembu and witness a memorable performance by kembu masters. Your tour ends after breakfast on day 12.