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What to expect

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore ancient temples & iconic districts

Sa-do Tea Ceremony

Sa-do Tea Ceremony

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture

Mt. Fuji Adventure

Mt. Fuji Adventure

Cruise serene Lake Ashi for stunning views

Shinkansen Bullet Train

Shinkansen Bullet Train

Ride Japan's exhilarating high-speed trains

About this trip...

Embark on a thrilling 13-day journey through the vibrant landscapes and rich traditions of Japan, where ancient customs blend seamlessly with modern marvels. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene beauty of Mount Fuji, immerse yourself in the allure of the 'Land of the Rising Sun'. Discover hidden gems like the preserved Shirakawago Village and the enchanting Higashi Chaya district, while indulging in unforgettable experiences like tea ceremonies with geishas and learning the art of crafting chopsticks with gold leaf. With visits to iconic landmarks, including majestic castles and tranquil gardens, and exhilarating rides aboard the legendary bullet train, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Japan's captivating culture and breathtaking scenery.
Activity Level: Activity Level Rating
What's this?

What's included?

  • Return flights & transfers
  • Transfers by Private Coach and Shinkansen Bullet Train
  • Airport taxes & charges
  • Twin for sole use room
  • Breakfast daily and 4 Dinners
  • Gold leaf chopsticks workshop , Sa-do Tea Ceremony & Visit to Sake Brewery and tasting
  • Tokyo River Cruise & Lake Ashi Pirate Boat Cruise
  • Visit to 5th station, Owakudani Valley
  • Visit to Himeji castle, Kobe Port tower, Osaka Castle, Osaka Museum of Housing and living & Umeda Skybuilding observatory
  • Visit to Ituskushima shrine & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and park
  • Visit to Nara park with Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine
  • Visit to Nomura Samurai House, Kenrokuen Garden, Shirakawago Gassho-zukuri Village & Kanda house
  • Visit to Kiyomizu Temple, Fushimi Inari shrine, Ryoanji Temple, Kinkakuji temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Gion District
  • Visit to Sensoji Temple, Hama-rikyu Gardens, Tokyo Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Mertopolitan Government observatory
  • Accompanying Solos Tour Leader
  • Fully Financially Protected

What's extra:

  • Insurance click here

Itinerary

  • Overnight flight from the UK
  • Kon'nichiwa and welcome to Japan!
  • Sensoji Temple, Hama-rikyu Gardens and Ginza
  • Tokyo Imperial Palace, Harajuku and Shibuya district
  • Mt. Fuji 5th station, Owakudani valley and Lake Ashi
  • Kanazawa Omicho Market, Nomura Samurai House & Higashi Chaya district
  • Kenrokuen Garden, Gold Leaf Workshop & Shirakawago Village
  • Kyoto Nishiki Ichiba Market, Kiyomizu Temple & Sa-do tea ceremony
  • Fushimi Inari shrine & Nara Park
  • Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Gion district
  • Hiroshima Miyajima, Peace Memorial Museum and Park
  • Himeji Castle & Kobe Port Tower
  • Osaka Castle & Umeda Skybuilding
  • Say Farewell
  • Arrive back into the UK

What you’ll be doing

Day One: Overnight flight from the UK

Day One: Overnight flight from the UK

Today we depart the UK and head to Japan on a overnight flight.
Day Two: Kon'nichiwa & welcome to Japan!

Day Two: Kon'nichiwa & welcome to Japan!

Upon arrival, we’ll proceed through immigration, collect our luggage and meet our local guide at the arrival lobby. Then we transfer to the centre of Tokyo! Greater Tokyo is to home over 30 million people which equates to ¼ of the entire population of Japan, making it one of the world’s biggest cities. We break the ice over a welcome dinner in a local restaurant, where we get our first taste of life in Japan with some delicious food and maybe a glass or two of sake! After dinner we check-in to our hotel.
  • Hotel Vista Tokyo Tsukiji or similar
  • Dinner Included
Day Three: Sensoji Temple, Hama-rikyu Gardens & Ginza

Day Three: Sensoji Temple, Hama-rikyu Gardens & Ginza

After breakfast, we're off on our private coach to explore Tokyo! First stop: Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. Then, we'll cruise to Hama-rikyu Gardens for lush landscapes amidst towering skyscrapers. Next, it's on to Odaiba, passing by the iconic Rainbow Bridge, a sight to behold! Once in Odaiba, we'll explore this bustling entertainment district on a man-made island. Finally, we'll shop 'til we drop in Ginza, Tokyo's premier destination for upscale shopping and dining. Let the adventure begin!

  • Hotel Vista Tokyo Tsukiji or similar
  • Breakfast Included

Day Four: Tokyo Imperial Palace, Harajuku & Shibuya district

Day Four: Tokyo Imperial Palace, Harajuku & Shibuya district

Today, our Tokyo adventure kicks off at Tsukiji Outer Market, Japan's renowned 'Food Town,' brimming with traditional delicacies. Then, we'll explore the majestic Tokyo Imperial Palace, once the site of Edo Castle. Next, we'll pay homage at Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji, followed by a stroll through vibrant Harajuku, home to Japan's extreme teenage cultures. After lunch, you'll have free time to explore the bustling shopping and dining scene of Shibuya, where we'll cross the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing and pay tribute to Hachiko Statue. Finally, we'll cap off our day at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory, soaking in breathtaking city views.

  • Hotel Vista Tokyo Tsukiji or similar
  • Breakfast  Included

Day Five: Mt. Fuji 5th station, Owakudani valley & Lake Ashi

Day Five: Mt. Fuji 5th station, Owakudani valley & Lake Ashi

Today, we'll start our journey with a visit to iconic Mt. Fuji, standing tall at 3776 meters. After soaking in panoramic views from the 5th station, we'll venture to Owakudani Valley via the Hakone Ropeway, where you'll witness the active volcanic zone's sulfurous fumes and hot springs. Then, we'll cruise to Lake Ashi, nestled in Mount Hakone's caldera, offering another glimpse of Mt. Fuji. Finally, we'll check into our Hakone hotel, where you can enjoy dinner and unwind in the hotel's hot spring.

  • Hakone Tenseien Hotel or similar
  • Breakfast & Dinner Included
* Your main luggage will be transferred to Kanazawa. Please bring one overnight bag by yourself for a night in Hakone as it takes one day to deliver.

Day Six: Kanazawa Omicho Market, Nomura Samurai House & Higashi Chaya district

Day Six: Kanazawa Omicho Market, Nomura Samurai House & Higashi Chaya district

After breakfast, we'll hop on the bullet train to Kanazawa. Our first stop is Omicho Market, renowned as the 'kitchen of Kanazawa', offering a vibrant array of fresh seafood from the nearby Sea of Japan. Next, we'll visit the Nomura Samurai House, a beautifully preserved historic home showcasing the life of Kanazawa's samurai. Finally, we'll explore the charming Higashi Chaya district, known for its geisha tea houses, where you'll have free time to wander among boutique shops, cafes, and traditional teahouses.

  • Hotel Vista Kanazawa or similar
  • Breakfast Included

Day Seven: Kenrokuen Garden, Gold Leaf Workshop & Shirakawago Village

Day Seven: Kenrokuen Garden, Gold Leaf Workshop & Shirakawago Village

We'll kick off our day at Kenrokuen Garden, hailed as one of Japan's most exquisite landscapes, boasting captivating designs and seasonal charm. Then, we delve into Kanazawa's rich legacy of gold leaf production with a hands-on chopstick-making adventure. We then visit the sake brewery in Kanazawa and discover range of different flavours of sake. Next, we'll venture to Shirakawago Gassho-zukuri Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its traditional Gassho-style architecture. Explore the fascinating Kanda House, marvelling at its intricate construction and historical significance, before returning to Kanazawa for a relaxing overnight stay.

  • Hotel Vista Kanazawa or similar
  • Breakfast & Dinner Included

Day Eight: Kyoto Nishiki Ichiba Market, Kiyomizu Temple & Sa-do Tea Ceremony

Day Eight: Kyoto Nishiki Ichiba Market, Kiyomizu Temple & Sa-do Tea Ceremony

After breakfast, we'll meet our guide and head to Kanazawa station by bus, then catch the shinkansen to Kyoto. Our first stop in Kyoto is Nishiki Ichiba Market, a bustling food paradise offering a variety of local delights. Enjoy free time for lunch before strolling through historic Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets, leading to the iconic Kiyomizu Temple, known for its scenic wooden stage. Finally, immerse yourself in the serene Sa-do tea ceremony, steeped in Japanese tradition and tranquillity. After the tour, we check-in to the hotel in Kyoto.

  • Urban Kyoto Nijo Premium or similar
  • Breakfast Included
*Main luggage will be transferred to Kyoto. Please bring one overnight bag by yourself for a night in Kyoto as it takes one day to deliver.

Day Nine: Fushimi Inari shrine & Nara Park

Day Nine: Fushimi Inari shrine & Nara Park

Today, we kick off at Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its stunning vermilion torii gates winding through Mount Inari's forested trails. Then, we venture to Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely. Explore Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine amidst the park's tranquil beauty.

  • Urban Kyoto Nijo Premium or similar
  • Breakfast Included

Day Ten: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Gion district

Day Ten: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Gion district

Today in Kyoto, we begin at Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's iconic rock garden, then proceed to Kinkakuji Temple, renowned for its stunning golden pavilion. Our journey continues to Arashiyama, where we wander through the famous Bamboo Grove and admire the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge. Finally, we explore the historic Gion district, Kyoto's famed geisha enclave, offering glimpses of traditional entertainment and culture.

  • Urban Kyoto Nijo Premium or similar
  • Breakfast Included

Day Eleven: Hiroshima Miyajima, Peace Memorial Museum & Park

Day Eleven: Hiroshima Miyajima, Peace Memorial Museum & Park

Embark on an excursion to Hiroshima, starting at Miyajima, renowned for Itsukushima Shrine, with its iconic torii gate seemingly floating over the sea. Then, we'll visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park, commemorating the devastation caused by the atomic bomb in 1945. Explore the Atomic Bomb Dome ruins and immerse yourself in the poignant exhibits of the Peace Memorial Museum, featuring personal artifacts from the tragic event. After the tour, we check-in to the hotel in Hiroshima.

  • Hotel Vista Hiroshima or similar
  • Breakfast Included
* Main luggage will be transferred to Osaka. Please bring one overnight bag by yourself for our first night in Hiroshima as it takes one day to deliver.

Day Twelve: Himeji castle & Kobe Port Tower

Day Twelve: Himeji castle & Kobe Port Tower

Today's adventure begins at Himeji Castle - known as the White Heron Castle for its elegant white appearance and celebrated as Japan's most spectacular castle. Next, we'll visit Kobe to admire the iconic Kobe Port Tower and explore the lively Kobe Harborland district, bustling with shops and eateries. Finally, we'll head to Osaka to settle into our hotel for the night.

  • Holiday Inn & Suite Shinosaka or similar
  • Breakfast Included

Day Thirteen: Osaka Castle & Umeda Skybuilding

Day Thirteen: Osaka Castle & Umeda Skybuilding

Today in Osaka, we start our day at Osaka Castle, a historic icon built in 1583 and once intended to become the centre of a unified Japan. Next, we'll explore the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living to experience the city's evolving architecture from the Edo period to modern times. Then, it's off to Dotombori for shopping and lunch. Afterward, we'll visit the Umeda Skybuilding observatory for stunning views. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner to cap off our unforgettable journey. 

  • Holiday Inn & Suite Shinosaka or similar
  • Breakfast & Dinner Included *Dinner at a local restaurant.

Day Fourteen: Say Farewell

Day Fourteen: Say Farewell

We bid "sayonara" to our epic Japanese adventure,  before transferring to the Kansai airport and our flight home.

  • Breakfast Included

Accommodation

Japan - Land of the Rising Sun

We stay in comfortable hotels throughout as detailed below (or similar).
  • Hotel Vista Tokyo Tsukiji Three-star
  • Hakone Tenseien Four-star
  • Hotel Vista Kanazawa Three-star
  • Urban Kyoto Nijo Premium Three-star
  • Hotel Vista Hiroshima Three-star
  • Holiday Inn & Suite Shinosaka Three-star
24th November 2025
  • Tokyo: Sotetsu grand fresa Takadanobaba room 15sqm
  • Hakone: Tenseien hotel
  • Kanazawa: Vista Kanazawa room 20sqm
  • Kyoto : Miyako city Kintetsu Kyoto station room16sqm
  • Hiroshima : Hiroshima Tokyu REI room 20sqm
  • Osaka : Shin Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI room 18sqm

Dates & Prices

Departure Return Nights Price from Other Info Regional flights
6 May 2025 19 May 2025 12
£5595
 Full Please call for regional flights
4 Nov 2025 17 Nov 2025 12
£5695
 Full Please call for regional flights
24 Nov 2025 7 Dec 2025 12
£5695
   Please call for regional flights

Essential Information

Passport and Visas
Visas 
If you have a ‘British Citizen’ or ‘British National (Overseas)’ passport, you can enter Japan as a visitor for up to 90 days without a visa. You may need to provide evidence of a return or onward ticket. If you have a different type of British nationality, or you wish to enter Japan for other purposes (long-term stay, study, settlement, employment); if you have any doubts about whether you’re eligible to enter Japan (eg, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested even if it did not result in a conviction) or about visa matters generally, contact a Japanese Embassy or Consulate. Visas aren’t issued after arrival in Japan. 
 
If you are not a British citizen and do not hold a British passport, you must make your own enquiries as to the applicable requirements. A
 
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct visa, a valid passport and any other travel documents for your holiday. All information provided relates to British citizens who hold or are entitled to apply for a British passport. For the most up-to-date visa information please visit; Japan Foreign Advice 
 
Your specific passport and visa requirements, and other immigration requirements are your sole responsibility and you should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates of the countries in which you are planning to travel. Passport validity Your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required.
Medication
The use or possession of some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines are banned under Japan’s strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law. This includes Vicks inhalers, medicines for allergies and sinus problems, cold and flu medication containing Pseudoephedrine and even some over-the-counter painkillers like those containing codeine. Foreign nationals have been detained and deported for offences - ignorance may not be considered a defence. You should check the status of your medication with the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulatebefore you travel. 
 
If you’re travelling with prescription medication that is permitted under Japanese law, you’re normally allowed to bring in up to one month’s supply. You’re advised to bring a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating the medical condition that the medication has been prescribed to treat. 
 
For more guidance on travelling with medication, check information pages from NHS Choices and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) in our foreign travel checklist. 
 
If you need prescription medicine for long term use, you may need to provide extra paperwork, such as an import licence. The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare provides information about bringing medication for personal use.
Transfer Time
The transfer time for the main tour between Tokyo Airport and the hotel is approximately 1 hour depending on traffic. The transfer time for the main tour between the hotel and Kansai Airport hotel is approximately 1.5 hour depending on traffic.
Important Information
Luggage Forwarding ServiceAs a section on this holiday is done by public transport (Japan's excellent train network) a luggage forwarding service is used on 3 occasions as space is limited on the trains. This luggage service is a one day service. You will need to use one night bag for yourself. 

 
Japan Hotel Room Sizes

When booking accommodations in Japan, it's important to note that room sizes are typically smaller compared to standard hotel rooms in many Western countries. This is a common characteristic of Japanese hotels, especially in urban areas like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, where space is at a premium.

To help manage expectations:

  • Compact Design: Japanese hotel rooms are designed to maximize functionality and efficiency in a smaller space.
  • Bed Sizes: Beds may also be slightly smaller than international norms; for example, a "double bed" in Japan may be closer in size to a large single bed.
  • Amenities: Despite the smaller size, rooms are often well-equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Please note
  • A reasonable level of fitness/mobility is required as we include plenty of sightseeing/travelling, some with early starts. Please note that on this trip we will also use private and public transport and there will be a lot of walking and standing involved.
  • The order of the itinerary and events may be subject to change
  • Please refer to Medical Conditions in Important Information.
Optional Excursions
Our tours are planned to be as fully inclusive as possible. However, from time-to-time your Tour Leader and Local Guide may suggest optional tours/sightseeing in addition to the standard sightseeing planned for that city. Such options are at an additional cost (payable in local currency). If you do not wish to take part in any optional extras, you will have the option of enjoying some free time at leisure or to return to the hotel.
Currency
Yen Cash is king in Japan! Although things are slowly changing it’s not unusual for shops and restaurants to not have facilities for credit and debit card transactions. Cash on the other hand is accepted everywhere in Japan. For guests already in Japan, Seven Eleven & Family Mart convenience stores, Post Offices and international airports have ATMs that will allow them to withdraw Japanese yen in cash using international credit or debit cards.
Gratuities
Tipping is generally not done in Japan. Staff at restaurants and hotels will likely be confused and try to return any ‘over-payment’ if tipped. A heartfelt thank-you is the best way to respond to good service. If you feel that your local guides have done an exceptional job and choose to tip them, any amount will be graciously and gratefully accepted. Our local agent recommends 5,000 yen per person for the two week trip.
Dress Code
Although Japanese people generally dress quite smartly, there are no strict dress codes in Japan. We would recommend a common-sense approach. During the day when sightseeing, we recommend casual, lightweight cotton clothing, that covers the shoulders and knees (both men and women). You will find that smart casual wear is acceptable, even in the best hotels during the evening. We would recommend an umbrella or hat for protection against the sun. 
 
This is quite an active itinerary and comfortable clothes would be best. From time to time, your guide will advise you about observing local customs. There will be occasions in Japan when guests are expected to remove their shoes. The most likely places to encounter this is when entering temples, shrines and traditional tea houses. Of course the tour leader will be on hand to advise. 
 
We would also recommend packing some clothes which are quick drying in case of rain. There are three occasions where the main luggage (one piece allowed) will be transferred for you. You will need to use one night bag for yourself.
Cuisine
Sushi is of course the most famous dish, but Japanese food does not stop with raw fish; other specialities include teriyaki (marinated beef/chicken/fish seared on a hot plate), sukiyaki (thin slices of beef, bean curd and vegetables cooked in soy sauce and then dipped in egg), and tempura (deep fried sea-food and vegetables). If everything so far sounds a bit meat and fish orientated don't be alarmed - there are vegetarian options in Japan. 
 
Try the wonderful zaru soba (buck-wheat noodles served cold), a bowl of udon (thicker noodles), shojin ryori (Buddhist cuisine based on a strictly vegetarian diet), vegetable okonomiyaki (savoury pancake), and vegetable tempura to name a few. A word of warning - being a strict vegetarian or vegan in Japan is challenging. Fish stock (dashi) is used as a base in many dishes and soups and can be difficult to avoid. 
 
Most of the restaurants we use for group meals try their best to accommodate dietary requirements. In some cases, restaurants may omit meat and fish products for vegetarians - meaning food could be bland. We will inform restaurants in advance if anyone has allergies or other dietary requirements and the tour leader will be on hand to give advice and restaurant recommendations to fit guests needs. 
 
International foods are widely available in Japan. From a country that survived on a diet of mainly fish and vegetables just over a century ago, Japan has reached the stage where there is an Italian restaurant or McDonald’s on nearly every city street corner. Indian restaurants abound too, as well as some very good Chinese and Korean places. 
 
For a late night snack, a ramen bar is a good bet – these can be found serving up steaming bowls of Chinese noodles, prepared Japanese style in various broths, until the small hours of the morning.

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