Spirit of Japan

Monday 31st August

Today we embark on our journey to Japan. 

Overnight in flight.  

Tuesday 1st September

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival, we’ll be greeted by our local guide and transferred to our hotel in Kyoto. After checking in, the rest of the day is free to either relax and refresh after your journey, or to begin exploring at your own pace, with a stroll through the quiet side streets lined with wooden townhouses, or a visit to one of the shrines such as the famous Fushimi Inari with its 10,000 gates.

Overnight in Kyoto.

Wednesday 2nd September

After breakfast, we’ll set out to discover Kyoto’s cultural gems. Our morning begins at Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. This Zen Buddhist temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf that glitters in the sunlight, creating a breathtaking reflection in the still waters of the surrounding mirror-like pond. We’ll stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and learn about the temple’s fascinating history – from lavish shogun villa to sacred sanctuary.

This afternoon, we’ll visit the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a tranquil and unique experience as we walk along the pathways surrounded by towering bamboo. Later, we’ll take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony led by a local tea master. We’ll learn the meaning behind each step of the ritual, including the precise preparation of matcha before having the chance to taste the tea. An authentic cultural experience to be cherished.

We’ll finish the day with our first introduction to Japanese food with a welcome dinner at a local Kyoto restaurant.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Kyoto.

Thursday 3rd September

Today begins at Nijo Castle, where ornate painted screens and creaking ‘nightingale floors’, designed to alert the shogun, reveal the elegance of samurai-era Kyoto. We’ll then wander through the bustling Nishiki Market, filled with the scents of sizzling skewers and pickled vegetables, alongside colourful sweets and treats. We’ll enjoy lunch here, amid the lively stalls.

In the afternoon, we’ll savour a sake tasting at a local brewery, learning about Japan’s centuries-old brewing traditions, followed by a stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. With its traditional wooden teahouses and softly glowing lanterns, this historic district sets the perfect atmosphere for this evening’s special dinner in the company of a Maiko (an apprentice geisha), offering a rare and unforgettable insight into Kyoto’s living cultural traditions.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Kyoto.

Friday 4th September

After breakfast, we’ll send our main luggage ahead to our next hotel – this is a common and convenient service in Japan, allowing people to travel comfortably without carrying heavy bags during the day.

Our first stop is Todaiji Temple, home to the impressive Great Buddha statue – one of the largest bronze Buddha figures in the world. We’ll then take a leisurely stroll through Nara Park, where friendly, free-roaming deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods, wander among the trees and pathways.

We’ll lunch at a local restaurant, before boarding the famous Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, from Kyoto to Hiroshima, experiencing the incredible speed as the countryside glides past. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel for check-in, before enjoying a free evening to discover Hiroshima’s vibrant local dining scene and a cuisine of your choice.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Hiroshima.

Saturday 5th September

This morning, we’ll explore Hiroshima, known around the world for being the first city to be struck by an atomic bomb and now a powerful symbol of resilience, peace and hope. Starting with a visit to the poignant Peace Memorial Park and Museum, we’ll hear the compelling testimony of an atomic bomb survivor – a moving and unforgettable experience.

After some free time for lunch, we’ll ride the ferry across the Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima Island. Here, we’ll marvel at the Itsukushima Shrine’s iconic ‘floating’ torii gate, which rises gracefully from the water. We’ll have time to stroll the island’s charming lanes before returning to Hiroshima for a relaxed evening.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Hiroshima.

Sunday 6th September

After breakfast, we’ll return to the bullet train bound for our next stop, Kanazawa. After arrival, we’ll set out to explore the city’s rich heritage. In the Higashi Chaya District, we’ll wander narrow lanes once home to geisha teahouses, before continuing on to the exquisite Kenroku-en Garden, celebrated as one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens. The name Kenroku-en means ‘combining six characteristics’, representing the attributes which bring out the garden’s stunning beauty: spaciousness, tranquillity, artifice, antiquity, water sources and magnificent views. Here we’ll discover a scene of perfect harmony with flowing streams and waterfalls, traditional bridges and winding paths, alongside historic teahouses. We’ll also see the famous Kotoji-toro lantern – a two-legged stone lantern and one of the most photographed spots in the garden.

Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Kanazawa.

Monday 7th September

Today we’ll step back in time as we stroll through the Samurai District, visiting traditional homes that reveal the lifestyle of the warrior class. The Samurai existed in Japan from the late 12th century rising from being, essentially, armed guards for wealthy landowners, to holding significant power in the Japanese government.

In the afternoon, we’ll journey to the mountain village of Shirakawa-go surrounded by lush fields and river valleys and recognised by UNESCO as a world heritage site due to its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow. We’ll also take part in a washi paper making workshop, learning this delicate, hand-made craft, before returning to Kanazawa for dinner.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Kanazawa.

Tuesday 8th September

After breakfast, we’ll again, send our luggage ahead and board the bullet train to Tokyo, Japan’s dazzling capital. After arrival, and some free time for lunch, we’ll discover the secrets behind Japan’s crisp, refreshing brews with a guided brewery tour and, of course, a tasting of a few of the varieties should you so wish.

The evening is free for us to explore Tokyo’s endless dining options.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Tokyo.

Wednesday 9th September

Today, we’ll escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo for a full day exploring the iconic Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest and most famous peak. Weather permitting, we’ll drive partway up the mountain to the 5th Station, located at an altitude of about 2,300 meters (7,500 feet). Here, we’ll be surrounded by crisp mountain air and panoramic views stretching across lush valleys and rolling hills. A perfect spot for photos, short walks, or simply soaking in the grandeur of Japan’s natural beauty.

After lunch, we’ll continue our journey to Hakone, a region celebrated for its scenic lakes and hot springs. In Hakone, we’ll board a cruise across Lake Ashi, enjoying the calm waters on this serene volcanic lake where Mount Fuji rises majestically in the background – a scene that has inspired countless artists and photographers. Next, we’ll take a cable car ride up to Owakudani Valley, an area formed during the last eruption of Mount Hakone some 3,000 years ago. Here, steaming volcanic vents, bubbling hot springs, and sulphurous fumes, give the landscape a truly otherworldly feel. The adventurous amongst you may try the local specialty of black eggs boiled in the hot springs. Legend claims that eating one adds seven years to your life!

Breakfast included. Overnight in Tokyo.

Thursday 10th September

Our day begins in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic neighbourhoods. Here, we’ll visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple. Marvel at the striking Kaminarimon Gate, adorned with a huge red lantern, and wander through the temple’s sprawling grounds, where centuries of history meet the energy of modern Tokyo. Just outside the temple, Nakamise Street beckons with its colourful stalls, offering everything from traditional snacks and souvenirs to handcrafted trinkets – perfect for picking up a unique keepsake. For lunch, we’ll immerse ourselves in Japanese culinary culture with a hands-on ramen-making class. We’ll knead, roll, and shape our own noodles, craft a savoury broth, and assemble toppings for a delicious and deeply satisfying cooking experience.

This afternoon, we’ll head to Meiji Shrine, tucked away in a lush, forested enclave in the heart of the city. Walking along the wide, tree-lined paths, feel a sense of calm and reflection as we explore the serene shrine grounds, pause at the sacred torii gates, and witness traditional Shinto rituals. To round off the day, we’ll join an energising Taiko drumming workshop. Feel the powerful rhythm resonate through your body as you learn the techniques behind Japan’s iconic drums, experiencing first-hand the energy, discipline, and joy of this traditional art form.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Tokyo.

Friday 11th September

After breakfast, the day is free for us to enjoy Tokyo at our leisure – whether shopping, visiting museums, or simply soaking in the city’s vibrant energy. For those who wish, an optional visit to the extraordinary immersive digital art museum, teamLab Planets, can be arranged. This world-famous multi-sensory museum provides a physical and sensory journey as you walk through water over changing terrains and into different spaces of ever-changing light, texture and scents creating an experience that feels dreamlike and otherworldly.

In the evening, we’ll come together for a truly special finale to our time in Tokyo – a luxurious Yakatabune dinner cruise across Tokyo Bay. Stepping aboard this traditional-style wooden boat, we’ll be welcomed into an elegant tatami-lined cabin and treated to authentic Japanese hospitality. As the boat glides gently along the water, we’ll indulge in a multi-course feast, often featuring freshly prepared tempura and sashimi. As lanterns glow and the boat gently drifts under the night sky, this unforgettable cruise offers the perfect, heartfelt ending to our adventure in Tokyo.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Tokyo.

Saturday 12th September

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Haneda Airport, carrying with us lasting memories of Japan’s temples, traditions, modern wonders and unique cuisine.

Breakfast included.