Discover JapanEscorted Tour, Japan

This exceptional 14-day journey offers a fully inclusive exploration of Japan’s most captivating destinations, combining rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant city life. From the tranquil temples of Kyoto to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, and from the serene surroundings of Hakone to the historic streets of Takayama, this expertly guided tour immerses you in the heart of Japan’s timeless traditions and modern wonders.

You’ll stay in carefully chosen hotels throughout, with all meals included, and travel comfortably by bullet train, coach, and boat. Along the way, you’ll stroll through ancient gardens, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, and explore lively markets brimming with local flavours.

From the iconic golden temples of Kyoto and the peaceful canals of Kurashiki, to the majestic castles and dramatic scenery of the Japanese Alps, this thoughtfully crafted itinerary offers the perfect blend of must-see sights and authentic cultural experiences – the ideal way to discover the many wonders of Japan.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Marvel at Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion – one of Japan’s most exquisite temples.

Walk beneath thousands of bright red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Stroll through the tranquil Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa – a jewel of Japanese landscaping.

Visit the traditional village of Shirakawa-go, renowned for its distinctive gassho-style farmhouses.

Experience the speed and precision of Japan’s famous Shinkansen bullet train.

Explore Takayama’s charming old town and browse its bustling morning markets.

Admire the historic Matsumoto Castle – one of Japan’s oldest original castles.

Cruise on Lake Ashi and ride the Hakone Ropeway, enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji.

Take in breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from several vantage points.

Discover Tokyo’s vibrant districts, including Meiji Shrine, Asakusa Temple, and the famous Shibuya Crossing.

Participate in a traditional tea ceremony to experience authentic Japanese culture.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Touring with guides and entrance fees

Breakfasts: 11, Lunches: 10, Dinners: 11

International flights and current taxes

11 nights in 3+/4-star accommodation

Max Group Size: 28

Physical Rating 1 - Walking, some steps and time on your feet

AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES

Learn about Washi Paper Making

Discover the traditional process of paper making before getting your hands dirty making 'washi' (Japanese paper) the age-old way.

The Art of Gold Leaf Making

Join a dedicated craftsperson in a small workshop to learn all about the lovely and intricate art of gold leaf making, discover what the gold leaf is then used for and have a go at doing it yourself!

Learn about Miso Seasoning

Learn all about the traditional production of an essential element of Japanese cooking, the fermented soybean paste 'miso', at an old wooden miso house.

ITINERARY

Day One/Two - Fly to Tokyo

Fly overnight to the dazzling metropolis of Tokyo, Japan's capital city. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day Three - Tokyo City Tour

Tokyo is the ultimate 24-hour city, but look behind its frantic, high-tech frontage and you will find plenty of tranquil backstreets and old temples to explore. Begin at the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree, Japan's tallest tower, before wandering through the old district of Asakusa. Stop to seek out the tranquility of the ancient Buddhist Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest. Next, drive by the Imperial Palace Plaza and later stroll through the classical landscapes of Hamarikyu Gardens. This evening, take a relaxed dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay for excellent city vistas.

Day Four - Mount Fuji

Take the super-fast bullet train to Odawara. Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Ashi for spectacular panoramas of this beautiful area before venturing up the Komagatake Ropeway. Next, ascend over 2,000 metres up Mount Fuji to the 5th Station, (weather permitting) and take in the breathtaking views over the Fuji Five Lakes area below.

Day Five - Matsumoto Castle

Transfer to Matsumoto and explore the formidable 16th-century Matsumoto Castle. Stop at a Miso House to learn about the process of making this famous Japanese seasoning. Travel on to Takayama, nestled high in the mountainous Hida region, also known as the Japanese Alps.

Day Six - Explore Takayama

Browse the local handicrafts and fresh produce at the Miyagawa morning market and wander past some of the lovely traditional houses. You'll also visit several of the excellent local museums – including the Festival Floats Museum, Kusakabe Folk Crafts Museum and Takayama Jinya. Also enjoy some free time in Kamisannomachi Street.

Day Seven - Shirakawago and Kanazawa

Get a glimpse of rural Japan at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawago which is famous for its farmhouses built in the unique gassho-zukuri architectural style. Continue to Gokayama to have a go at washi paper making, then travel to Kanazawa and meander through the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan.

Day Eight - Gold Leaf Making

Begin the day learning the process of making gold leaf. Next, stroll through traditional Higashi Chaya (Eastern Teahouse District), visiting Ochaya Shima – a historical geisha house. Later, journey to Kyoto. Capital for 1,000 years, until 1879, today Kyoto is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens.

Day Nine - Explore Kyoto

Start the day with a visit to Ryoanji, the 'temple of the peaceful dragon' and the famous Kinkakuji, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion'. In the afternoon, head to a restored Japanese wooden townhouse and try your hand at origami and enjoy the age-old rituals of a tea ceremony.

Day Ten - Discover Nara

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, remarkable for its 10,000 vermilion torii gates. Continue to Nara, a relaxed and charming town virtually untouched by the ravages of modernity. Home to many archetypal pieces of early art and architecture, stroll through Nara Park to Todaiji Temple, meeting the resident sika deer en-route, before exploring Isuien Garden.

Day Eleven - Koyasan

The holy mountain of Koyasan is home to over 100 monasteries nestled in a valley enclosed by peaks said to resemble a lotus flower. Arguably the most sacred mountain in all of Japan, Koyasan is the heart of Shingon Buddhism and the resting place of Japan's best known Buddhist, known as both Kukai and Kobo Daishi. Wander around Okunoin – a vast cemetery of 200,000 stupas and enjoy the tranquillity and spectacular views as you discover Kongobuji Temple and the Garan Temple Complex. Later, continue to Osaka.

Day Twelve - Explore Osaka

Begin the day exploring Osaka Castle, which is one of Japan's most famous. Next, take a short cruise along the Yodogawa River and stroll through Dotonbori, a restaurant mecca, where you can sample the local delicacies for lunch. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore this fascinating city.

Day Thirteen - Fly Osaka to UK

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

Discover Japan is located in Escorted Tour, Japan. Accommodation rating is the operators own rating and may not be the official rating. Hotel details correct at 15/07/2025