An itinerary introducing the highlights of this vibrant and mystical land, providing an insight into its culture, history and traditions.
DAY 1 | Fly from London Heathrow to Toyko. DAY 2 | On arrival at Tokyo’s Narita Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred by car to the Park Hyatt. Two nights accommodation is included on a bed and breakfast basis. The remainder of the day is at leisure. DAY 3 | Today’s private tour will begin with a stroll around the Imperial Palace Gardens before wandering over to Asakusa Kannon Temple, the oldest and most impressive in the city. Afterwards, take a scenic boat trip down the Suminda River to the beautiful Hamariku Gardens followed by some free time for shopping in the fashionable Ginza area. DAY 4 | Depart Toyko this morning for Kamakura to visit the Great Buddha, Hachimangu Shrine and temple complex. You will then continue on to Hakone to experience a stay in a traditional ryokan. Luxuriate in the hot spring baths and experience the traditional cuisine. Accommodation for two nights is at Ginyu with breakfast and dinner included. DAY 5 | After a traditional breakfast, today is spent exploring the scenic Hakone area. Enjoy a cable car ride over the Boiling Valley, offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji, followed by a visit to the fascinating Open-air Art Museum. Return to Ginyu for a delicious Japanese meal this evening. DAY 6 | Experience your first bullet train journey this morning en-route to Kyoto. On arrival you will be transferred to your accommodation for three nights, the Hyatt Regency, with daily breakfast included. This afternoon will provide an introduction to beautiful Kyoto as you visit The Golden Pavilion, the famous Zen Garden at Ryoanji Temple and Nijo Castle. DAY 7 | A full days sightseeing today will begin with a visit to Gion, Kyoto’s Geisha area. After exploring the cobbled streets, continue on to Yasuka Shrine, Maruyama Park and renowned Kiyomizu Temple with its stunning vistas over the city. Enjoy further cultural enlightenment by experiencing the ritual of a tea ceremony at Heian Shrine. DAY 8 | A visit to Nara is included today. It is home to a varied collection of temples – the most famous being Todaiji, home to Japan’s largest giant Buddha statue and Horyuji. Following the days explorations, return to Kyoto. DAY 9 | Board the bullet train once more for the return journey to Tokyo, with overnight accommodation at the Park Hyatt, breakfast included. There is the opportunity to explore more of the city, beginning with a visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine, then on to the fashion district of Shibuya. End the day with shopping in Akihabara, stocking up with the latest electrical gadgets. DAY 10 | Transfer to Narita Airport for the onward flight to London Heathrow.
8 nights from £7170 per person. Prices are based on two people sharing a room and include transfers, accommodation, private touring, meals as specified and flights. Single supplement available on request. International flights are with Virgin Atlantic in Economy - one way Premium Economy upgrades are available from £250 per person. One way Upper Class upgrades are available from £1245 per person. These itineraries are only suggestions - our experienced sales team will be happy to put together alternative, tailormade tours.