12 days
Winter Snow Japan

Depart from your preferred airport for a scheduled flight to Tokyo.

Arrive in Japan, where you are met by our Tour Assistant and transferred to Tokyo by Airport Limousine bus or train. 

The rest of the day is at your leisure to adjust to the 9 hours time difference.

Morning city tour of Tokyo visiting Tokyo Tower and Meiji Shrine. Next we drive by the Akasaka Guest House and the National Diet Building, home to the Japanese House of Parliament. Our tour continues to the Imperial Palace East Gardens and a drive and stroll along Ginza high street.

Afternoon is free at leisure, or take an optional afternoon Tokyo city tour. Ask for details at time of booking.

(Includes Dinner)

This morning take the unassisted transfer to Yudanaka by train via Nagano. Upon arrival at Nagano, our tour assistant will meet you and help you board the correct train to Yudanaka. Upon arrival at Yudanaka go to your Ryokan which has indoor & outdoor Onsen hot spring spa facilities (approx. 8 minutes walk or 2 min by taxi). Hopefully you can enjoy the outdoor onsen watching the snow covered hills

For your convenience, we have arranged luggage transfer to take your large luggage directly to Takayama (1 bag per person). Prepare a light carry bag for your stay in Yudanaka & Matsumoto.

Later visit the nearby snow monkey park on your own to see the Monkeys warming themselves in the hot onsen bath (entrance fee not included aprox £5pp). Note the hotel offers twice daily free shuttle bus to the snow monkey park, or make your own arrangements.

In the evening return to the Ryokan for a beautiful Japanese dinner and relax in the Onsen hot spring spa.

(Includes Breakfast, Dinner)

Today enjoy traditional breakfast in your Ryokan before taking the train for the unassisted transfer to Matsumoto via Nagano. Proceed to your Ryokan accommodation. 

During your free time in Matsumoto we recommend visiting Matsumoto castle, known as 'crow castle' due to its unique black exterior. Matsumoto castle is one of only four castles designated as National Treasures of Japan and is stunningly beautiful, particularly in the winter. Afterwards stroll around the traditional old quarter (Nawate Dori). 

Enjoy Dinner in Ryokan and a relaxing Onsen bath.

(Includes Breakfast)

After breakfast  take the free shuttle bus to Matsumoto bus terminal and board the Nohi bus to Takayama (unassisted). Upon arrival proceed to your hotel.

Free time - Takayama is a tranquil old castle town often nickname 'little Kyoto and easily explored on foot.

Self transfer by bus to Shirakawago, which many believe is the 'hidden treasure' of Japan, with uniquely crafted traditional wooden farmhouses. See Shirakawago in the winter snow is truly breathtaking, particularly during snow fall when the snow covers the steep roofs and surrounding mountains

 Free time to explore until taking the onward bus to Kanazawa.

We have arranged free luggage transfer to take your large luggage directly to Kyoto. Prepare a light carry bag for your stay in Kanazawa. Leave your large luggage (1 bag per person).

Free time in Kanazawa to explore at your leisure.

Kanazawa is home to the Kenroku-en Garden, regarded as one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan and which takes on a particularly attractive appearance during snow fall. We also recommend taking a stroll through the Nagamachi Samurai district.

Free time until departure by express train to Kyoto. Upon arrival make your own way to your hotel accommodation.

Full day guided sight-seeing walking tour of Nara & Kyoto. Travel with our Tour guide by train to Nara, the ancient capital of Japan. Our guided walking tour includes visiting Todaiji Temple,  Nara Deer Park and the magnificent Kofukuji Temple. Return to Kyoto by train.

In the afternoon we visit the magnificent Kiyomizu Temple, Todaiji Temple, Yasaka Shrine and Gion District where you may catch a glimpse of a Geisha rushing to a dinner appointment. Tour disbands in Gion, (approx. 8km walking).

Free day to explore Kyoto or take an optional tour.

You will be transferred to the futuristic Kansai International Airport in Osaka for your departure flight homeward.