Plunge straight into the buzz of Japan's capital city, Tokyo, where better to start your trip? This dazzling city is full of life and unlike anything you will have ever experienced. From the rooftop bars above peer over the cutting-edge architecture and glittering skyline. Head down to street level and you'll see that life never seems to stop moving in this energetic metropolis. But that's not all Tokyo has to offer, it has charm too. You will have three nights at Palace Hotel which has one of the most desirable locations in the heart of all the cultural attractions that are sure to be on your list.

On your full day in the city we have included a private car and expert guide to take you around this sprawling metropolis, explaining the key highlights and opening hidden doors to the most interesting parts of the city. We work with some of the best guides in Japan, who are completely flexible and totally focussed on tailoring the experience directly to you and your interests.

From Tokyo you will sit back and relax in first class as you take the bullet train to Nagoya and then a short helicopter flight to the Amanemu, overlooking the Bay of Pearls on the tip of the Osaki Peninsula, your home for the next three nights. 

Amanemu is the ultimate luxury retreat in the heart of the Ise Shima National Park. Based on the ryokan tradition, it offers guests a unique sanctuary with stunning views over the Ago Bay. Based on Aman's philosophy of welcoming you home, instilling peace and tranquillity to any stay.  Ise Shima National Park is not only famous for its stark beauty but for the natural hot springs, referred to locally as onsen, that flow through it. Amanemu takes full advantage of this and provides a completely holistic experience. All the rooms come with spacious terraces with calming views over Ago Bay. Unwind here for three nights, visiting the sacred Ise Shrines, walking part of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage trails or even learning about Ama diving.

The next leg of your journey will lead you to Japan's most refined city, Kyoto. Kyoto instantly evokes the image of tranquil temples set within beautifully kept gardens. In fact, there are over a staggering 2,000 Buddhist temples and shrines in the city, each taking on different forms with the changing of the seasons. Staying at the Ritz Carlton, the city's most luxurious hotel, you are located right in the hub of Kyoto. Over three days visit some of the area's most sacred temples, explore the famous shopping district and uncover the fascinating world of the Geishas. We have included one day of private guiding for you here so that you can get a better understanding of the incredible history of this city and region. Also, on one of your evenings we have included the opportunity for a private dinner and encounter with a Geisha where you can experience the long-standing tradition of the geiko who dedicate their lives to preserving the ancient traditions of Japan.

From Kyoto you will take the super-efficient bullet train across to Kanazawa on the west coast of Japan, taking just under three hours. Here you will stay at the stunning Beniya Mukayu, which provides a fantastic blend of tradition and modernity. You will encounter stunning design and expansive guest rooms with private terraces and open air baths.

Outside of the ryokan, you will submerge in the peaceful town of Yamashiro Onsen, unspoilt by tourism. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of this quaint and sleepy village or walk to the local shrines at the top of the hill. Beniya Mukayu is a great base to explore Kanazawa too. On your full day here, with your private guide, you’ll be able to visit Nomura-Ke, the only samurai house open to the public and spend time visiting some of the local art museums and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere in the beautiful Kenroku-en gardens. A highlight not to be missed is a visit to the local sake brewery which will teach you about the origins of Japanese whiskey.

Back in Tokyo for your final night, you’ll stay at the sister property of Amanemu, Aman Tokyo which is simply outstanding.  

As the icing on the cake, and for your grand finale in Japan, we suggest a helicopter flight around Tokyo at sunset, the perfect goodbye to this incredible country.