Christmas in Japan

Fly overnight to the dazzling 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.

Begin today with a stroll through the Imperial Palace East Garden and then take time to explore the Tokyo National Museum to learn about Tokyo's historical heritage. After lunch, seek out the Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Shopping Arcade, followed by a visit to the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree for panoramic views over the sprawling city below.

Today starts with a relaxing wander around the classical landscapes of the Hamarikyu Gardens. Continue to the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, before driving past the famous Shibuya Crossing. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore as you wish.

ourney through the foothills of the iconic Mount Fuji to its base where we find the Fuji Five Lakes. Upon arrival, ascend 2,000 metres up to Mount Fuji's 5th Station (weather permitting) where, with its perfectly conical looming overhead, you can take in the breathtaking views over the landscapes below. After lunch, continue to Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to view the artist's elaborate dyed silk creations and spend some time strolling around the beautiful garden. Also explore Iyashi no Sato Historical Village, a former farming village on the shores of Lake Saiko.

Start the day with a visit to Oshino Hakkai before learning how to make your very own traditional Japanese soba noodles which you will then tuck into for lunch! Later, transfer to Mishima station and journey on the bullet train to Kyoto. An enchanting city, Kyoto was capital for 1,000 years; today it is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens.

Enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto starting with a visit to one of Kyoto's delightful temples – the 17th-century Buddhist Kiyomizu. Immerse yourself in the culture by experiencing the sacred rituals of a tea ceremony with a tea master and try your hand at origami. Dating back to the 6th-century, the art of 'folding paper' is a cultural symbol of simplicity, beauty and peace. Later, explore the impressive Fushimi Inari Shrine with its remarkable 10,000 red torii gates. Tonight you will enjoy a special Christmas feast in a local restaurant, while enjoying the street decorations, Christmas markets and many amazing illuminations.

Merri Kurisumasu! Begin the day with a visit to Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's most famous zen garden and the famous Kinkakuji Temple, known as the 'Golden Pavilion'. Continue to Osaka, arriving in time for lunch in the vibrant Dotonbori district. Later, travel by bullet train to Hiroshima, a city that needs no introduction. End the day with a Christmas dinner cruise on Hiroshima Bay. While the festive season is more a time to spread happiness, than a religious celebration in Japan, 'kurisumasu keki' - Japanese Christmas cake - can be found on many a corner.

Hop on the ferry to the holy island of Miyajima and visit the Itsukushima Shrine. Enjoy some free time and take an optional ride on the cable car up Mount Misen to enjoy the panoramic views. Return to Hiroshima, taking time to reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, while paying homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb and also visit the Orizuru Tower.

Travel to Himeji to visit its famous castle. The feudal era fort, one of the most impressive in Japan, towers over the city and is recognisable as the backdrop to several major films. Appreciate its turbulent past before strolling around Kokoen, the Edo-style gardens just across the castle moat. Later, transfer to Osaka for an overnight stay and a pre New Years dinner is the perfect way to end your holiday in Japan.

Fly to New Zealand, arriving home the same or following day.