Contrasts of Japan – End Tokyo

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Tokyo airport, you will be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle. After check-in, enjoy some time to relax and prepare for your Japanese adventure. Tokyo offers an exciting introduction to Japan, combining modern architecture, traditional culture and vibrant city life.

Discover Tokyo on a guided sightseeing tour. Begin around Zojoji Temple, with impressive views of Tokyo Tower. Continue to the famous Shibuya Crossing before visiting Meiji Shrine, surrounded by peaceful woodland. Explore the Imperial Palace area and admire its historic bridges. Later, discover Asakusa's Sensoji Temple and Nakamise shopping street. Enjoy views of the city from Tokyo Skytree. In the evening, travel by metro to Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's most exciting entertainment districts.

Leave Tokyo and travel towards the beautiful Mount Fuji region. Visit Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its spectacular views of Mount Fuji and its picturesque pagoda. Continue to Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Fuji Five Lakes area. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride while admiring the surrounding mountain scenery. Later, arrive at your hotel and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this scenic region.

Continue discovering the Japanese countryside with a visit to Fuji Sengen Shrine, an important spiritual site associated with Mount Fuji. Explore Iyashi No Sato Nenba, a beautifully reconstructed traditional village featuring thatched-roof houses and views of the surrounding mountains. Continue to the Toyota Museum to discover aspects of Japanese automotive history and technology. Later, travel towards Kyoto, Japan's historic cultural capital.

Explore Kyoto, a city renowned for its temples, traditional architecture and timeless atmosphere. Begin at Tenryu-ji Temple and enjoy a walk through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Continue to Fushimi Inari Shrine, celebrated for its thousands of red torii gates winding through the hills. Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace area before discovering Kinkakuji, the spectacular Golden Pavilion reflected in its surrounding pond. In the evening, enjoy an excursion to Gion, Kyoto's traditional entertainment district.

Depart Kyoto and head towards Nara, one of Japan's most historic cities. Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the impressive Great Buddha, and explore the surrounding historic area. Discover Nara's famous deer park, where friendly deer roam freely among the trees and temple grounds. Continue to Horyu-ji Temple, an important Buddhist complex with remarkable historical architecture. Later, travel to Osaka, famous for its energetic atmosphere, food culture and entertainment. In the evening, enjoy a visit to Dotonbori, known for its illuminated signs and lively streets.

Travel towards Himeji to discover one of Japan's most impressive historic landmarks, Himeji Castle. Known as the White Heron Castle because of its elegant white exterior, this UNESCO-listed monument is a remarkable example of traditional Japanese castle architecture. Continue to Okayama and visit Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's most celebrated landscape gardens, featuring peaceful ponds, landscaped lawns, traditional tea houses and beautiful seasonal scenery. After sightseeing, transfer to your hotel.

Begin the day with a visit to Kurashiki, a charming historic town famous for its traditional white-walled warehouses, picturesque canals and beautifully preserved streets. Continue towards Miyajima Island, one of Japan's most scenic destinations. Take the ferry across the water and discover Itsukushima Shrine, internationally recognised for its spectacular floating torii gate. Enjoy the island's natural beauty and traditional atmosphere before continuing to Hiroshima for your overnight stay.

Discover Hiroshima's important history with a visit to Peace Memorial Park, a moving tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. See the famous Atomic Bomb Dome and learn more about the city's history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Later, experience one of Japan's most impressive transport systems as you board the Shinkansen high-speed train towards Tokyo. Enjoy the journey across Japan before arriving in the capital for your final overnight stay.

Enjoy your final breakfast in Japan before checking out of the hotel. Your memorable journey through Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, Kurashiki, Miyajima and Hiroshima comes to an end. Take home unforgettable memories of Japan's fascinating culture, beautiful landscapes and historic landmarks.