Classic Japan
Whilst often in the shadow of its neighbours, an evening in Osaka is not to be missed. The neon-lit streets are mesmerising, the tiny restaurants have a real atmosphere and the food is spectacular.
Day 1
Arrival Japan
Upon arrival in Tokyo you’ll be met by a representative and privately escorted to your hotel. The rest of the day will be spent at your leisure, armed with our list of recommended attractions and restaurants to help you have a great start to your trip.
Day 2
Tokyo City Tour
Enjoy a full day city tour of Tokyo with your guide.
Visit Asakusa, the city’s oldest Geisha district and home to Sensoji Temple, pay a visit to Meiji Shrine, and see the Ginza area, Imperial Palace and Shibuya’s ‘scramble’ crossing.
Day 3
Morning Sumo Training Experience
Go behind the scenes of Japan's most beloved sport: sumo wrestling. Spend a morning at an authentic sumo 'stable', and watch as the athletes go through their daily training rituals.
Day 4
Train to Hakone
Today you'll travel by train to Hakone to get a sight of Mt. Fuji, and prepare for a night in a ryokan, a classic Japanese-style inn furnished with futon beds, tatami flooring, paper sliding doors, and hot spring baths.
Day 5
Hakone - Hiroshima
After one last soak in an onsen, you’ll take the train to Hiroshima.
Day 6
Hiroshima
Today will be free to spend at your leisure.
We recommend taking the ferry to Miyajima, a small sacred island where you can see the Itsukushima Shrine, visit Daisho-in, and sample local delicacies like oysters, saltwater eel, and maple leaf-shaped cakes.
In the afternoon, return to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
Day 7
Hiroshima - Kyoto
Today you’ll take the train to Kyoto, home to around 2,000 shrines and temples, 17 of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Upon arrival at Kyoto Station you’ll head on a sightseeing tour to take in Heian Shrine, Naka Shin-en (one of the four gardens that was featured in the movie Lost in Translation), and Kiyomizu-dera, a temple on Mt. Otowa.
Day 8
Kyoto’s backstreets by bicycle
Embark on a half-day cycling tour to discover hidden teahouses, spot Geishas, and enter one of Kyoto's Zen temples to meet with a tea master for an exclusive ceremony.
Day 9
Nara Excursion
Today will be spent at your leisure.
We recommend travelling by train to Nara - Japan’s capital during the 8th century. Here you can visit Todai-ji Temple, the world’s largest wooden building and home to Japan’s largest Buddha.
Day 10
Osaka Private Evening Soul Food Tour
After spending the day at leisure, catch the train to Osaka and head on a food tour, soaking in the bright lights, fantastic smells, and visiting different venues to sample local snacks, fresh sushi and local beers.
Day 11
Departure
You’ll be escorted to the airport for your onward journey.
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
EXPERTISEYou can rely on our extensive first-hand knowledge and years of experience in the country you’re visiting. We use only the best expert guides, and provide insider tips on the local customs, and everything from vibrant festivals to hidden Himalayan monasteries
PERSONAL SERVICEYour vacation will be as unique as you are. By getting to know you and what makes you tick, we fuse our wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of our destinations to create unique day by day itineraries that are built around you.
