Description
Begin your exploration of fascinating Japan in the exciting capital, Tokyo. Stay at the contemporary Mandarin Oriental where infinity edges and floor to ceiling window offers an exhilarating view over the city. A private guide can be arranged to introduce you to the city with visits to the Imperial Palace Gardens, the exclusive shopping at Ginza and the bright lights of Shinjuko.
Travel by the world famous bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural centre, to explore the hundreds of Shinto and Buddhist shrines and temples, the Geisha district and Japan's ancient culture. Stay overnight at a luxury Ryokan (Japanese inn) where you will be served an exquisite meal by a kimono clad member of staff. Head to the Hotel Granvia for the remainder of your time here in an excellent location beside the bullet train station.
Head south to Hiroshima to visit the Atomic Bomb Museum and then take a short ferry ride across to the peaceful and picturesque Miyajima Island to stay in a very traditional Ryokan perched on a hillside and surrounded by cherry trees.
Take the bullet train to Hakone National Park, a volcanic valley renowned for its hot springs and stunning views of Mt Fuji. Stay at the stunning Hakone Ginyu by where you will be spoiled by the incredible views across the valley and the luxurious rooms – a choice of either western or Japanese style each with its own private garden and hot spring tub.
Return to Tokyo for a final night and in the early morning before your flight we recommend a visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market as the sun rises to watch local fishermen haggle over enormous tuna fish.
This itinerary is the perfect mix of city and rural Japan and allows you to experience the highlights of this fascinating country all within fairly easy travelling distance.
Guide price
£3,995 Per person
£3,995 Per person for 9 nights in Japan, based on 2 people sharing including international flights, transfers by public transport (bullet trains and ferries), breakfast throughout and dinner when staying at the Ryokans.
Itinerary
When to travel
Japan has four seasons, similar to the UK and is best visited in spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. December to January can be cold with snow and the summer is hot and humid. The end of March and early April is a particularly good time to visit as this is the cherry blossom season as is October for the autumn colours.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Japan
Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Miyajima and Hakone
How to get there
12 hr International flight and a 90 minutes train or car journey
