Secrets of the Inland Sea

Day 1 Osaka                            
Upon arrival you will be welcomed and guided to the train. Tonight join our Flavours of Osaka tour.                              

Day 2 Osaka to Okayama                    
Today take the train to Okayama. Begin by visiting Okayama Castle, also known as ‘Crow Castle’ for its black exterior. Then enjoy a walk around the stunning Koraku-en Gardens, situated on an island                            
in the Asahi-gawa River.              

Day 3 Naoshima Island                    
Spend the day on the artistic island of Naoshima, easily reached by train and a short ferry. The three art museums here house works by world famous artists including James Turrell and Claude Monet.  Later stop by the iconic red and yellow pumpkin sculptures by Yayoi Kusama or visit one of the town’s fascinating Art House projects. Return to Okayama.                    

Day 4 Okayama to Takamatsu              
Take the train to Takamatsu to discover one of Japan’s most famous historical gardens, the Ritsurin Koen. These incredible grounds were landscaped in the 1620s and are a wonderful place to unwind. Later visit Takamatsu Castle or head to one of the many viewpoints that surround the city.                              

Day 5 Takamatsu to Matsuyama    
Travel to charming Matsuyama, known for its ancient pilgrimage routes and thermal springs. Visit Matsuyama Castle, one of the only 12 remaining original castles in Japan. Later, why not relax in one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, Dogo Onsen.

Day 6 Matsuyama to Hiroshima    
Catch the train to the vibrant city of Hiroshima. This afternoon is free for you to explore at leisure.      

Day 7 Hiroshima & Miyajima    
Visit the deeply moving Peace Memorial Museum and Park. Later take the ferry across to the scenic island of Miyajima. Explore the many shrines and temples of the island before returning to Hiroshima.

Day 8 Hiroshima to Kobe              
Catch the train to Kobe. Visit ‘European Town’, the historic district where some of Japan’s first foreign merchants and diplomats settled in the 1860s. Later take the ropeway up to the observation deck for remarkable views over the harbour. Don’t miss out on Kobe’s world famous Wagyu beef, best enjoyed in a teppanyaki restaurant.            

Day 9 Kyoto              
Today discover the delights of Japan’s cultural capital on a day trip to Kyoto. Highlights include Nijo Castle, the golden pavilion of Kinkakuji and Kiyomizu Temple where you can enjoy amazing views.  

Day 10  Kobe to Osaka      
Transfer to Osaka’s Kansai airport.