Culture and Art of Japan

Welcome to Tokyo. Be met on arrival and transferred to your luxurious hotel. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers at a welcome dinner at your hotel, savouring Japanese flavours with a modern flair.

Following breakfast, meet your guide and head to Roppongi, where you’ll soak in the scenery at the Tokyo City View observation deck at Mori Tower, which on a clear day provides outstanding panoramic views of the vast capital city. Head to Tokyo’s old town of Asakusa, which is home to the city’s oldest temple, Sensoji. Visit the iconic Buddhist temple and stroll through the Namikase shopping street indulging in snacks and souvenirs. Enjoy an exhilarating sumo demonstration performed by former professional sumo wrestlers. Witness this renowned sport firsthand and soak in the atmosphere. Following lunch, embark on your exciting Freedom of Choice activity. 

Freedom of Choice – Shibuya and Harajuku Exploration

Experience the incredible energy and efficiency of Tokyo’s vast underground metro as you delve into the buzzing districts of Shibuya and Harajuku. 

Freedom of Choice – Futuristic Tokyo Tour (TeamLab Borderless)

Immerse yourself in a world of illusions in this engaging experience. Watch in awe as projection mapping melds with human interaction to create this new spectacular digital artform.

Freedom of Choice – Tokyo National Museum Visit

Learn more about the history of Japan at the Tokyo National Museum, which is home to a collection of approximately 110,000 objects. 

Visit Meiji Shrine this morning, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Emperor Meiji. After your indulgent Signature Experience, head to Ginza, Tokyo’s renowned upscale shopping district, where you’ll be captivated by the stunning presentation and variety of food at a local department store. In the afternoon, explore the Kabukiza Gallery and the vibrant streets of Ginza before enjoying the rest of the day at your leisure.

Signature Experience – Sushi-Making Class

Take part in a sushi-making class and learn to prepare maki sushi (rolled sushi) and nigiri sushi (sushi rice topped with a slice of raw fish) before savouring your creations for lunch. 

Depart for the town of Hakone this morning by coach. Throughout the day, you may have the chance to glimpse the remarkable Mount Fuji on a clear day. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Sekishoato Port. Here, embark on a Hakone Yusen Cruise and take in exceptional views as you glide across the waters of Lake Ashinoko (Lake Ashi), a large volcanic crater lake formed 3,000 years ago. Arrive at Hakone-en Port and travel to Komagatake via the ropeway. From the ropeway’s upper station, enjoy panoramic views of Lake Ashinoko and Mount Fuji in fine weather. At Komagatake’s peak, admire Hakone Shrine Mototsumiya—the original Hakone Shrine—before descending the mountain by ropeway. This evening, enjoy access to an onsen, traditional Japanese thermal baths, at your accommodation.

Board a bullet train bound for Nagoya. On arrival, drive to Nagoya Castle, stopping en route for lunch at Kinshachi Yokocho, a lively dining precinct filled with gourmet restaurants. After lunch at leisure, explore the majestic 17th‑century fortress of Nagoya Castle, built by the Tokugawa shogunate. Wander through the lavish interiors of Honmaru Palace, see the famous golden shachihoko, and stroll through the immaculate gardens framing the impressive castle exterior.

Then, discover the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, located in a former Toyota factory. Learn about the evolution of industrial technologies as you move through the Textile Machinery Pavilion and Automobile Pavilion. This evening, you’ll have the chance to sample the region’s renowned Hida beef at a local restaurant.

Depart for Inuyama Naritasan Daisho-ji Temple and on arrival, take part in a Signature Experience. Then, visit the castle town of Inuyama and join a guided tour of Karakuri Museum, admiring a range of Karakuri mechanical dolls, some used on floats during the Inuyama Festival. Enjoy live demonstrations of these mechanical dolls in motion. Admire the exceptional craftsmanship of these national treasures.

The next stop is Dondenkan, an exhibition showcasing Inuyama's famous spring festival parade floats. Gaze in awe at the intricate designs decorated with lacquer, gold leaf and carvings. Other exhibits include traditional costumes and displays of this vibrant centuries-old event. Next, enjoy lunch at your leisure in the castle town and choose from a selection of food stalls brimming with local specialties including miso katsu. Lighter snack or sweets are also available in surrounding cafes. This afternoon, relish another Signature Experience.

Signature Experience — Goma Fire Ritual

Observe a Goma Fire Ritual, a traditional Buddhist Ceremony enacted to optimise good fortune and eradicate negative influences. See the sacred burning of wooden prayer tablets accompanied by the mesmerising chanting of monks. Immerse yourself in this atmospheric ritual as you gain insight into this Shingon Buddhist tradition.

Signature Experience — Swordsmith Hammering Experience

Visit the Seki Hamono (blade) Museum dedicated to Japan's long history of traditional blade-making. Delight in a live demonstration of a master swordsmith and their apprentices at work. See what it takes to hammer steel in an authentic hammering experience.

Today you’ll visit the World Heritage-listed village of Shirakawa-go en route to Kanazawa. Some of the village’s famous gassho-zukuri farmhouses date back more than 250 years, and you’ll stop at Nagase House to gain a deeper insight into the traditional homes before strolling around the peaceful village. Continue to Kanazawa and the marvellous Kenroku-en garden, ranked one of the top three gardens of Japan. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Enjoy your choice of restaurant for dinner. 

Freedom of Choice Dining – Benkay

Enjoy Kanazawa’s best seasonal produce in a relaxing setting at Japanese restaurant Benkei. This traditional sushi, grill and tempura counter presents an incredible range of dishes that offer a true taste of Japan. 

Freedom of Choice Dining – La PLAGE

Indulge in an elegant European dinner at La PLAGE, nestled on the top floor of your luxury hotel in Kanazawa. 

Start your day in the Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa’s largest geisha district. Enjoy some free time to explore the area, before visiting the traditional Shima teahouse. Following lunch, be transferred to the train station to board a bullet train to Tsuruga, then change to a limited express train to Kyoto. Upon arrival, walk to your nearby accommodation and settle in before savouring a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

An exciting day of sightseeing lies ahead. Set out for Arashiyama this morning, climbing aboard a rickshaw for a ride past Nonomiya Shrine and the spectacular Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the famous Kinkakuji temple, commonly known as the Golden Pavilion for its gold-leaf-covered upper floors. You’ll then visit historic Nijo Castle before returning to your hotel and spending the evening at your leisure.

Begin your day with a special Signature Experience. In the afternoon, head out on your chosen Freedom of Choice activity before returning to your hotel.  

Signature Experience – Japanese Tea Ceremony

Delve into traditional Japanese culture with a special tea ceremony experience. Learn all about tea varieties and the importance and process of serving tea to guests in Japan. Enhance your experience by taking part in the ceremony wearing a festive kimono and gain a better understanding of the variety of kimonos used across different occasions. 

Freedom of Choice – E-Bike Cycling Tour

Cycle through the Miyagawacho and Gion geisha districts and spot a geisha or maiko as they dash between appointments. Admire the weeping willow trees that line the Shirakawa canal, passing beautiful Kyoto-style tea houses. Then head to the Imperial Palace Park and immerse yourself in their immaculate gardens. Cycle back to Kyoto station via the Kamogawa River. Ride beneath the cherry blossoms as they bloom in spring and in summer, see restaurant balconies buzzing as patrons look onto the river.

Freedom of Choice – Nishiki Market and Japanese Sweets Workshop

Delve into Kyoto's rich culinary heritage and culture on a visit to Nishiki Market, a bustling strip lined with more than one hundred eateries and businesses. Indulge in the world of gastronomy including fresh seafood, produce, cookware and regional specialties. Learn how to make Kyoto-style wagashi (sweets) and savour the taste of your creations over a cup of green tea. Then, head to a historic confectionary shop known for selling exquisite sweets and once serving the Imperial household.

Freedom of Choice – Adventurous River Ride Tour (Hozu River Boat Ride)

Cruise along the Hozu River on a scenic boat ride and soak in panoramic views of valleys and mountains as skilled boatmen navigate the currents using centuries‑old techniques. Enjoy the seasonal highlights of the surrounding wilderness as you wind through the dramatic landscapes. Please note that your clothes may occasionally get splashed.

This morning, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to more than 10,000 red torii gates. Dedicated to Inari, this is the most important of the many shrines honouring the Shinto god of rice. Fox statues adorn the grounds, as foxes are believed to be the deity’s messengers. The shrine predates the capital’s relocation to Kyoto in AD 794.

Then, visit Nara, Japan’s former capital for 74 years. Admire the temples and shrines built during this era, including Tōdai-ji temple, one of the world’s largest wooden structures and home to Japan’s largest Buddha statue. Explore Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely and bow their heads to visitors.

Your next stop is Naramachi, Nara’s beautifully preserved former merchant district. Wooden townhouses dating back to the Edo period line the narrow streets. Soak up the elegant simplicity of traditional Japanese architecture, and discover hidden temples and local shops selling handicrafts as you wander through the lanes.

Enjoy a Signature Experience tonight.

Signature Experience – Dinner with a Maiko or Geisha

A special night of private entertainment with a maiko or geisha awaits. Enjoy a wonderful dinner and drinks and have the chance to learn more about geisha and their daily life, all accompanied by music played on a shamisen, a traditional stringed instrument. 

Today, walk to Kyoto Station to board a First Class Shinkansen bound for Himeji. On arrival, visit World Heritage-listed Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic and architecturally significant castles. Explore this remarkable historic site, which has survived war, fire and multiple natural disasters.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, journey on to a sake brewery for a Signature Experience. Return to the train station for another first-class bullet train journey to Okayama. Discover the city at leisure in the afternoon and evening after checking into your hotel. Tonight, savour a French dinner at your hotel.

Signature Experience – Sake Tasting

Delight in a tour and delicious tasting at a traditional sake brewery in Himeji.

Head to Kurashiki this morning by coach and embark on a walking tour of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. Immerse yourself in the town’s atmospheric streets, where 400‑year‑old traditional buildings contrast with contemporary riverside views along the Kurashiki River. White plaster walls, namako walls and graceful rows of willows line these picturesque lanes. Savour lunch at a local restaurant before enjoying time at leisure to explore Kurashiki at your own pace. You may choose to wander through art museums, visit cultural landmarks, relax in a cosy cafe or browse distinctive local fashion and crafts along Denim Street. Return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.

In the morning, explore the spacious and intricately designed Kōrakuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Afterwards, board a First Class Shinkansen for a comfortable journey to the historic city of Hiroshima.

This afternoon, take time to reflect on the sombre atmosphere of the Peace Memorial Park, located at ground zero of the atomic bomb dropped on the city on 6 August 1945. Walk through the park and discover the various memorials and monuments before a moving visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Later, head to Hiroshima Orizuru Tower and take in the expansive views of the surrounding cityscape. Tonight, enjoy a buffet dinner at your hotel.

After breakfast, visit Shukkeien Garden, a beautifully landscaped retreat whose name means “shrunken‑scenery garden”. Designed to represent miniature landscapes, including mountains, valleys and forests, this serene setting offers a peaceful start to your morning. Afterwards, indulge in an okonomiyaki experience, savouring pancakes prepared in the traditional Hiroshima style.

Then, board a ferry to Miyajima Island and visit the World Heritage‑listed Itsukushima Shrine, a sacred site of Shintoism. This remarkable location is renowned for its partially submerged floating torii gate, an enduring symbol of Japan’s spiritual culture. Stroll around the island before enjoying an evening at leisure in Hiroshima.

After breakfast, walk to Hiroshima Station and board a First Class Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kurume, where you’ll have free time for lunch. Then, embark on a serene boat ride along the scenic canals of Yanagawa.

Tonight, soak up the atmosphere at a local izakaya, where you’ll enjoy a farewell dinner to toast your incredible Japanese journey with your new‑found friends.

Your journey finishes today after breakfast, with a transfer to Fukuoka Airport for your onward flight.