Japan UncoveredEscorted tour, Japan

This unforgettable holiday offers a fully inclusive 17-day journey through the very best of Japan, revealing the country’s striking contrasts – from timeless traditions and serene temples to futuristic cities and dramatic natural landscapes. From the majestic slopes of Mount Fuji to the manicured gardens of Kanazawa, and from the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the historic temples of Kyoto, this expertly guided tour provides a rich and immersive introduction to the Land of the Rising Sun.

You’ll stay in well-located, high-quality hotels throughout, with all meals included in your package, and travel in comfort by coach, bullet train, boat, and even cable car. Along the way, you’ll take part in a traditional tea ceremony, wander through the exquisite Kenroku-en Garden, try your hand at washi paper-making in a rural village, and observe snow monkeys relaxing in natural hot springs.

From the poignant memorials of Hiroshima and the friendly deer of Nara, to the towering elegance of Himeji Castle and the neon-lit energy of Tokyo, this carefully crafted itinerary combines Japan’s most iconic sights with authentic cultural experiences – the ideal way to uncover the spirit, beauty, and wonder of this extraordinary country.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Explore the dynamic city of Tokyo, from the bustling Shibuya crossing to the tranquil Meiji Shrine.

Stroll through the historic streets of Kanazawa, known for its well-preserved samurai and geisha districts.

Visit the striking Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful and intact castles.

Experience the serene charm of the Japanese Alps in the mountain town of Takayama.

Discover the cultural riches of Kyoto, including the Golden Pavilion and traditional tea ceremonies.

Take a scenic train journey through the countryside on the Hida Furukawa Railway.

Explore the ancient city of Nara, home to historic temples and a friendly deer park.

Dive into the culinary delights and vibrant nightlife of Osaka, Japan’s food capital.

Cruise around Miyajima Island, renowned for its iconic floating torii gate.

Admire the awe-inspiring views of Mount Fuji from the Fuji Five Lakes region.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Touring with guides and entrance fees

Breakfasts: 15, Lunches: 14, Dinners: 14

International flights and current taxes

15 nights in 3+/4-star accommodation

Max Group Size: 28

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

AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES

Take a traditional rickshaw ride through Kanazawa

Explore the city’s historic samurai and geisha districts with a local guide.

Visit a washi paper workshop

Learn about this delicate craft and try your hand at making traditional Japanese paper.

Experience a Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto

Immerse yourself in this centuries-old ritual of hospitality and calm.

Stroll through Takayama’s morning markets

Browse local produce and crafts in one of Japan’s most charming towns.

Stay overnight in a ryokan

Relax in authentic accommodation featuring tatami mats and soothing onsen baths.

Visit a sake brewery

Discover the process behind Japan’s national drink and enjoy a tasting.

Cruise around Miyajima Island

Take in views of the famous floating torii gate from the water.

ITINERARY

Day One/Two - Fly to Osaka

Fly overnight to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start soaking up the local culture.

Day Three - Discover Nara

Spend the morning in Nara, the small, history-filled city that was Japan's first capital. Stroll through Nara Park to Todai-ji Temple and admire the traditional Isui-en Garden. Look out for the park's beautiful free-roaming sika deer, who have learned to bow to visitors! Return to Osaka and visit the impressive Osaka Castle.

Day Four - Himeji Castle

Depart Osaka for Hiroshima, stopping en route to explore the magnificent 17th Century Himeji Castle and the neighbouring Koko-en, a traditional-style garden.

Day Five - Explore Hiroshima

Reflect on this seaside city's tragic past at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, paying homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb. Next, take the ferry to the holy island of Miyajima to see its 'floating' torii gate and enjoy some time at leisure.

Day Six - Bullet Train to Kyoto

Start the day with a journey by bullet train to Kyoto. Capital for 1,000 years, this enchanting city is the epitome of traditional Japan. Visit Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's most famous zen garden and Kinkakuji Temple, also known as 'Golden Pavilion'.

Day Seven - Japanese Tea Ceremony

Enjoy one of Kyoto's most delightful spots, Kiyomizu, a 17th-century Buddhist temple, before experiencing the age-old rituals of a traditional tea ceremony. After lunch, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its 10,000 vermilion torii gates.

Day Eight - Travel to Kanazawa

Depart Kyoto and travel around 4 hours by coach to Kanazawa. After lunch in a local restaurant, wander through the beautiful Kenroku-en Garden before visiting a historic samurai house. Continue to your hotel and check in.

Day Nine - Washi Paper Making & Shirakawa-go Village

Drive to Gokayama, where you can enjoy a hands-on washi paper making workshop before lunch. Continue to Shirakawa-go, famous for its steep thatched roof houses. Continue to your hotel in Takayama, a beautiful, laidback town nestled in the western foothills of the Japanese Alps.

Day Ten - Explore Takayama

Take a morning walking tour of Takayama's old town, historically a hub for craftsmen, farmers and merchants from the surrounding mountains. Head to the Miyagawa Morning Market, where you can sample some of the delicious local fruits and vegetables (at your own expense). Later, take a leisurely stroll around the traditional streetd and visit Takayama Jinya. If local opening hours permit, you will also visit the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall.

Day Eleven - Travel to Nagano

Travel to Matsumoto and explore the formidable 16th-century Matsumoto Castle, famous for its dramatic, dark wood exterior. Please note that the castle has very steep wooden steps inside; if you prefer, you can wait in the grounds and enjoy the view instead. Later, visit a miso house and learn about this staple Japanese seasoning. Continue to Nagano.

Day Twelve - Search for Snow Monkeys

January - August 2025: Head to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you'll take a gentle hike through the forested valley in search of the semi-wild Japanese snow monkeys, who love to bathe and play in the forest pools. Later, return to Nagano and visit the famous Zenko-ji Temple. - From September 2025: Enjoy some time at leisure to explore the charming town of Obuse, known for its chestnut and apple themed snacks. Later, head to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you'll take a gentle hike through the forested valley in search of the semi-wild Japanese snow monkeys, who love to bathe and play in the forest pools. Return to Nagano.

Day Thirteen - Mount Fuji

The sacred peak of Mount Fuji has inspired artists, poets and pilgrims for centuries. Drive from Nagano to reach the Fuji region, where, weather permitting, you can enjoy dramatic views of Fuji and drive up to its 5th Station, the highest point on the mountain accessible by road. If the Station is closed due to inclement weather, you will instead visit the Fujisan World Heritage Centre. Spend the night in the wider Fuji area.

Day Fourteen - Explore Hakone

Begin the day with a cruise on the peaceful waters of Lake Ashi. Next, soar high on the Hakone Ropeway over the hilltops to the volcanic Owakudani Valley and discover the dramatic natural hot springs of Mount Hakone. Later, proceed to Tokyo.

Day Fifteen - Discover Tokyo

A dazzling, high-tech metropolis, Japan's capital has wonderfully traditional roots. Start your explorations at the Imperial Palace East Garden, then stop by the famous Shibuya Crossing before some free time to enjoy Tokyo at leisure.

Day Sixteen - Tokyo

Stroll the vibrant Asakusa district and soak up the ambience of Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, and the adjacent Nakamise Shopping Street. Ascend to the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. The afternoon is free until this evening's farewell dinner cruise aboard a traditional yakata boat.

Day Seventeen - Fly Tokyo to UK

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

Japan Uncovered 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