Japan Explorer 

Day Three: Sensoji Temple & Hama-rikyu Gardens

After breakfast, we set off on our private coach for a full-day Tokyo City Tour. Our first stop is Asakusa Kannon Temple (Sensoji), Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple, followed by a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with traditional stalls and souvenirs. Next, we enjoy a truly memorable cultural highlight — a live Sumo Show, complete with a delicious lunch.

Day Four: Ginza, Harajuku & Shibuya District

Today, our Tokyo adventure begins with a drive past the historic Tokyo Imperial Palace, once the grand site of Edo Castle. We continue on to Ginza, the city’s renowned upscale shopping district, where modern elegance meets traditional charm. Next, we step into serenity at Meiji Jingu Shrine, a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji, offering a welcome escape from the bustling streets.

Day Five: Mt. Fuji 5th station, Owakudani Valley & Lake Ashi

We pay a visit to the legendary Mt. Fuji, rising majestically to 3,776 meters. Weather permitting, we travel up to the Fuji 5th Station, where sweeping panoramic views await. Should conditions prevent access, we’ll instead explore the picturesque Oshino Hakkai, a charming traditional village renowned for its crystal‑clear spring water ponds.

Day Six: Kanazawa Omicho Market, Nomura Samurai House & Higashi Chaya District

After breakfast, we board the iconic bullet train and speed our way to Kanazawa. Our first stop is Omicho Market, fondly known as the ‘kitchen of Kanazawa,’ where a vibrant array of fresh seafood from the nearby Sea of Japan fills the lively stalls. Next, we step back in time at the Nomura Samurai House, a beautifully preserved residence that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and traditions of Kanazawa’s samurai.

Day Seven: Kenrokuen Garden, Gold Leaf Workshop & Ogimachi Village

We begin our day at the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, celebrated as one of Japan’s most exquisite landscapes, with its harmonious design and ever‑changing seasonal beauty. Next, we dive into Kanazawa’s rich heritage of gold‑leaf artistry with a hands‑on chopstick‑making experience, a truly memorable cultural activity.

Day Eight: Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple & Sa-do Tea Ceremony

After breakfast, we meet our guide and travel by bus to Kanazawa Station, where we board the shinkansen bound for Kyoto. On arrival, we make our way to the Kiyomizu area, with free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure. We then wander along the charming historic lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, lined with traditional shops and teahouses, before reaching the iconic Kiyomizu Temple, famed for its sweeping wooden stage and breathtaking views. Please note: if parking is unavailable, a 2 km walk may be required to reach the temple.

Day Nine: Fushimi Inari Shrine & Nara Park

Today, we begin with a visit to the renowned Fushimi Inari Shrine, celebrated for its striking vermilion torii gates that weave their way through the forested slopes of Mount Inari. From there, we journey on to Nara, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at your own pace.

In the afternoon, we explore Nara Deer Park, home to friendly deer that roam freely throughout the grounds. We then visit the impressive Todaiji Temple and the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine (admission included for the shrine only), both set within the park’s peaceful surroundings. 

Day Ten: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Gion Corner

Today in Kyoto, we begin with a visit to the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where soaring bamboo stalks create a tranquil and unforgettable setting. We then continue to Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan’s most celebrated zen rock garden, before heading to the magnificent Kinkakuji Temple, famed for its glistening Golden Pavilion reflected in the surrounding waters.

Day Eleven: Hiroshima Miyajima, Peace Memorial Museum & Park

Today, we set out on an excursion to Hiroshima, beginning with a visit to Miyajima, famed for the magnificent Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic torii gate that appears to float gracefully on the sea. We then continue to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park, a moving tribute to the events of 1945 and the city’s enduring message of peace. As we explore, we pass by the haunting remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome and take time to reflect while viewing the poignant exhibits of the Peace Memorial Museum, which include personal artifacts and stories from that tragic day. After this deeply memorable visit, we check in to our hotel in Hiroshima for the evening.

Day Twelve: Himeji Castle & Kobe Harborland

Today’s adventure begins as we travel to Hiroshima Station and board the Shinkansen bound for Himeji. On arrival, we explore the magnificent Himeji Castle — often referred to as the White Heron Castle for its graceful, soaring design — widely regarded as Japan’s most spectacular surviving feudal fortress.

We then continue on to Kobe, where we enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Meriken Park, home to the striking Kobe Port Tower and a collection of impressive waterfront artworks. Our journey continues to the vibrant Kobe Harborland district, a lively hub filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. After a full day of sightseeing, we travel onward to Osaka and check in to our hotel for the night.

Day Thirteen: Osaka Castle & Umeda Skybuilding

Today, we set out on an exciting Osaka City Tour, beginning with a visit to the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, where we’ll step back in time and see how city life has evolved from the Edo period through to the modern day. We then make our way to the Umeda Sky Building, where its striking futuristic observatory offers sweeping panoramic views over the city.

Our exploration continues at the historic Osaka Castle, originally built in 1583 as a powerful symbol of unity during Japan’s warring states era. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to soak up the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori, Osaka’s most famous entertainment and shopping district, brimming with neon lights and street food delights.

Day Fourteen: Departure Day

We leave with unforgettable memories of our epic Japanese adventure, transferring to Kansai Airport for our flight home.