15 days
Samurai 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.

Free day to explore Tokyo or purchase an optional full day tour to Nikko or Kamakura.

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(Includes Lunch)

You will be picked up from your hotel and driven by deluxe motorcoach to Mount Fuji. Lunch will be provided at a Hotel /Restaurant in Hakone. 

In the  afternoon we proceed to the Hakone National Park where we  will take a cable car ride with the opportunity to see the  magnificent volcanic Hakone mountain range below. We will then travel to the Owakudani Boiling Valley and afterwards take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi.  After the tour we transfer back to Tokyo.

Self transfer by train to Matsumoto. During your free time in Matsumoto we recommend visiting Matsumoto castle, known as 'crow castle' due to its unique black exterior. 

For your convenience and due to luggage restriction on the bullet train, we have arranged free luggage transfer to take your large luggage directly to Kyoto (1 bag per person). Prepare a light carry bag for your stay in Matsumoto & Tsumago.

(Includes Dinner in Minshuku)

Today take an early morning unasisted transfer by train and bus to the old postal town of Tsumago (bus or taxi fare not included, approx 9 min journey). Once at Tsumago check into your accommodation.

During your time in Tsumago we recommend walking part of the Magome-Tsumago Trail. This was a trail which formed part of the Nakasendo postal route between Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). The town of Magome has been beautifully restored in contrasts with the striking authenticity of neighbouring Tsumago. Tsumago is known today as one of the best preserved historical towns in Japan and walking along its car free streets is like stepping back in time to the early Edo Period, where Samurai walked the streets.

Overnight in traditional Japanese Minshuku staying in a Japanese style bedroom sleeping on futon beds.

(Includes Breakfast)

After breakfast at your Minshuku, self transfers to Kyoto by train via Nagoya. The rest of the day is free at leisure in Kyoto.

(Includes Lunch)

Full day sight-seeing tour of Kyoto & Nara, including visiting Nijo Castle, former residence of the Tokugawa Shogun, Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Kyoto Imperial Palace.

After lunch we travel to the ancient capital of Japan, Nara and visit Nara Deer Park, Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shinto Shrine and Nara Nagomikan before returning to Kyoto.

Free day at leisure or take optional tour 

(Includes Lunch)

In the morning take the train to Himeji. We then have a full day walking tour, including visiting Himeji castle, which is considered one of the greatest and most beautiful castles in Japan. Himeji castle has only recently been fully restored, after 5 years of intensive renovation.

After Japanese style lunch, we travel to Maiko by train with our guide.

Upon arrival we enjoy walking along Maiko Marine Promenade and visiting Akashi Kaikyo Suspension Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in the world. Return to Himeji by train.

Luggage transfer is arranged to take your large luggage directly to Osaka (1 bag per person). Prepare a light carry bag for your stay in Himeji & Hiroshima.

Check out of your hotel and leave your luggage with the bell boy. Then you have free time to explore Himeji on your own.

In the afternoon board your train to Hiroshima.

Using your Hiroden pass, enjoy a free day to explore the many sights and attractions of Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima island. 

The Hiroden pass includes free local street car (tram) use, lunch discount Voucher at Okonomi-mura (speciality of Hiroshima) and a night cruise of Miyajima island to see the famous red Torii Gate. We will provide you with a guide itinerary.

In the morning self transfer by Bullet train to Osaka. Upon arrival take the short walk to your hotel which is conveniently located near to JR Osaka station.

Rest of the day is free at leisure to explore Osaka, which is easily navigated using the underground subways. A must-see sight is Osaka Castle and Dotonbori which is the most popular street.

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