A Week In Japan

Days 1-2

Fly To Tokyo
Fly overnight to the vibrant, neon bright metropolis of Tokyo, Japan's capital city. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
- Dinner
Day 3

Explore Tokyo
As modern as Tokyo may appear, behind the neon facade is a traditional soul that is easy to find amongst the old alleyways, temples and shrines of the Edo era. Today, you will explore the city, ascending the Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower, before taking a wander through Asakusa district, stopping to soak up the atmosphere at Sensoji. Drive by the Imperial Palace Plaza and stroll through Hamarikyu Gardens. This evening, enjoy a Japanese diner cruise on the waters of Tokyo Bay and admire the supercharged lights of the city.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 4

Mt Fuji
Travel by road from Tokyo to Fuji, where you'll ascend 2,300 metres up Japan's most iconic sight to the '5th Station' for magnificent views of both Fuji’s cone and the surrounding landscapes. If the road to the 5th Station is closed, you will instead visit the Fuji Visitor Centre. Transfer to the spa region of Hakone by coach. Embark on a cruise on the spectacular Lake Ashi, keeping an eye out for the bright red of vermilion torii gates that nestle on the surrounding alpinesque hills and in the shallows of the lake itself. You may even catch a glimpse of the cone of Mt Fuji peering over the hills, though once you have flown high above the lake of the Komagatake Ropeway to the summit of Mt Komagatake the views of Mt Fuji will be breathtaking but weather dependent of course!
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 5

Bullet Train To Kyoto
Transfer to Odawara Station, jump onboard the bullet train and whizz your way to Kyoto. Capital for a millennium, Kyoto was also the heart of religion, philosophy, art and cuisine, making it a treasure trove of history and culture. It is here that all of the best known cultural arts were born, including the tea ceremony, Kabuki and Geisha. This afternoon, visit the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine. Follow the pathway through thousands of vermillion torii gates that leads through a complex of shrines spread over a peaceful, forested hillside.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 6

Explore Kyoto
Begin the day with a visit to one of Japan's most famous temples, Kinkakuji, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion'. Set amongst classical Japanese zen gardens and on the edge of a reflecting pool, the temple's main hall is covered in gold leaf – a breathtaking sight no matter what season you visit in. Continue to Ryoanji Temple, where you can contemplate Japan's most famous zen garden. Enjoy a taste of authentic Japanese culture, experiencing the elegant ritual of a tea ceremony with a tea master and learn the traditional art of calligraphy.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 7

Explore Nara and Osaka
This morning, depart for Nara. Another former capital, Nara also has a huge cultural legacy, considered second only to Kyoto’s. This picturesque, compact city is endlessly charming, something you’ll notice as you explore. Spend the morning discovering Todai-ji Templeh which houses the magnificent Daibutsu, a 15-metre tall bronze statue of Buddha. Here you’ll also be able to meet Nara's famous Sika Deer, believed to be the messengers of the Shinto gods. You’ll also stroll Isui-en, a prime example of a Meiji-era (1868-1912) garden. Continue to Osaka, where you'll have lunch and explore the Dontonburi district, Osaka’s vibrant foodie and entertainment district. It isbest known for its plethora of neon signs and snack-offering street food stalls. Later, you can learn about the turbulent history of the magnificent Osaka Castle.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Days 8-9

Fly Osaka To New Zealand
Fly to New Zealand, arriving home the same or following day.
- Breakfast

We draw from a wide range of hotels on our holidays, each one is chosen to suit the tour you are travelling on meaning your accommodation can range from a smart business hotel in one city to a family run guesthouse in a smaller town. Here are some examples of the type of hotel you can expect to find on this tour.

Nights 2

Sunshine City Prince Hotel

The Sunshine Prince is located in Sunshine City, a shopping and entertainment hub of Tokyo and close to Ikebukuro Station, providing convenient transport links to the rest of the city. The hotel's en-suite rooms are simple, comfortable and traditionally furnished with a television, electric kettle, a mini fridge and a safety deposit box. Facilities in the hotel include onsite restaurants serving Japanese, Cantonese and Western cuisines, a café and bar and a 24 hour convenience store.
Night 1

Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa

1320 Gora, 1320 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0408, Japan

This contemporary spa hotel in the mountainous Hakone area features sleek rooms with balconies or terraces, and include minibars, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. There are 2 stylish restaurants in addition to a plush lounge. Other perks include a day spa and a geothermal traditional onsen.
Nights 2

Rihga Gran Kyoto

Located near the hub of transportation Kyoto station and many of Kyoto's top attractions, the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto is in a great location for exploring this beautiful city. It's contemporary guest rooms are complete with Japanese touches and ensuite bathrooms. The hotel features many facilities, including six restaurants, a luxurious bar, a heated indoor pool, and a fitness gym.
Night 1

Hotel Monterey Osaka

Situated in central Osaka, the Hotel Monterey Osaka is directly connected to Namba train station and just a 10-minute walk from Dotonbori Shopping Street. The hotel features 4 dining options with panoramic city views. Guest rooms feature British-Style interiors and modern practical amenities.