Magical Japan

Arrive in Tokyo, the dynamic capital of Japan. Your adventure begins with a welcome briefing, then head out to explore this diverse city - starting with the Meji shrine, a tranquil Shinto shrine surrounded by a lush forest. Then head to the famed Harajuku, a trendy district known for its vibrant street fashion, quirky boutiques and youthful culture scene.

Later, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a local Izakaya style restaurant and get to know your fellow travellers. Stay Two Nights: Tokyo, Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar (D)

This morning, drive around the expansive outer grounds of the Imperial Palace (where Japan's imperial family reside). Pass other key institutions such as Tokyo Station on the way to Sensoji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple in Asakusa with a vibrant market street leading to its entrance.

Later, visit Skytree and enjoy stunning views of the city.

This afternoon is free to enjoy as you wish, you may like to join a Taiko drum experience, or take part in a calligraphy workshop (both additional expense). (B)

Start your day with a visit to Tsukiji Market, a lively marketplace known for its fresh seafood, sushi restaurants and local food vendors. Explore the bustling stalls selling a variety of Japanese product and ingredients and discover why it is a popular destination for food lovers and tourists seeking an authentic culinary experience. After the market enjoy your Insider Experience.

Later, head to Hakone, a place of staggering beauty. At your hotel, you can opt to partake in a traditional onsen experience, a restorative communal bath, or enjoy the privacy of your ensuite bathroom in your hotel room. Enjoy a banquet dinner at your hotel tonight. Stay Two Nights: Hakone Yumoto Onsen Tenseien (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Learn how to make your own authentic sushi.

This morning, start with a walk on part of the Old Tokaido road. Then, embark on a boat ride on Lake Ashi (also known as Ashinoko) a natural caldera formed after a major volcanic explosion some 3000 years ago. Then, transfer to a ropeway and cable car up to the top of Owakudani Geothermal Valley where you may catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji. After some time spent at Owakudani, head to the hotel to relax, if you like, you can take the opportunity to visit some of the museums and galleries dotted around Hakone on your own. (B)

Today, depart a bit early to Hamamatsu. First, visit the Hamamatsu Flower Park, a picturesque botanical garden showcasing a colourful display of flowers and seasonal blooms. Then, have a quick lunch and continue to the Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments, lots of musical instruments from around the world are displayed. Then, head to the hotel to check in and relax in the evening. Stay: Hamamatsu, Okura ACT City Hotel or similar (B/L)

Today, depart a bit early to Nara, which briefly reigned as capital of Japan. On the way, visit Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology to see developments in textiles and automobile technologies. Continue to Nara and visit Yakushiji Temple. With 1,300-year history, the East Pagoda is the only wooden structure to have survived fires and other disasters at the temple since it was first built until today. Head to the hotel to check in and relax. Stay: Nara, Daiwa Roynet Hotel (B)

Visit Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most famous temples housing the huge, seated, bronze Buddha. Stroll through Nara Park, with its friendly wild deer that roam throughout the park and the city. Then, move on to Kyoto, the former imperial capital for over 1,000 years.

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, known throughout the world as the ‘Path of the Red Gates.' Walk along the impressive path framed by Torii gates which winds up through dense woods behind the main shrine complex. Later, enjoy your Insider Experience. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Stay Two Nights: Kyoto, Noku Hotel (B/D)

Insider Experience: Enjoy an authentic Japanese tea ceremony.

Today, explore UNESCO-listed Kinkakuji, otherwise known as the Golden Pavillion, a stunning Zen temple with a golden exterior, serene gardens and historical significance. Travel on to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the most photographed sites in the city. Explore Tenryuji temple with its beautiful garden and stunning backdrop. (B)

Make the coach journey this morning to Kanazawa, a historic city in Japan, famous for its Edo period districts, traditonal tea houses, samurai residences and Kenrokuen Garden.

Once in Kanazawa, visit the district called Higashi Chaya, a place for geiko (the local name for geisha) to entertain wealthy merchants with music, dance, and games. The district's traditional wooden buildings and lattice-work windows retain the atmosphere of their 200-year history. Today, many of these buildings function as cafes, restaurants, sweet shops, and craft shops, but some are still geiko teahouses nowadays. Then head to the hotel to check in. Stay: Kanazawa, Amanek Hotel (B)

Enjoy a free morning with the option of Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenrokuen Garden tour or a Gold Leaf Craft Experience (additional expense for the tour and craft experience). Then journey to the alpine village of Shirakawa-go, a picturesque village known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go offers a glimpse into rural Japan's history and culture. The village is particularly beautiful in winter when covered in snow, creating a magical winter wonderland.

Later, move on to Takayama and explore the old town area and try local sake. In the evening, you try Hida Beef at a local restaurant. Stay Two Nights: Tokyu Stay Hida -Takayama (B/D)

Insider Experience: Indulge in an authentic sake tasting.

Depart early for Matsumoto. Famous for buckwheat soba noodles and Matsumoto Castle, also known as ‘Crow Castle', a historic Japanese Castle built in the 16th century. One of Japan's oldest and most well-preserved castles, it's black exterior and unique architecture make it a popular tourist attraction and symbol of Matsumoto. Explore inside the castle and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains from the top of its turret.

Embark on your first Insider Experience before the journey back to Tokyo. This evening enjoy a Farewell Dinner celebrating your last night in Japan. Stay: Tokyo, Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Explore a miso factory, a traditional Japanese culinary staple. Gain an insight into the authentic production of 3-year fermented miso in wooden barrels and delight your tastebuds with dishes featuring the traditional soybean paste. Gather for a Japanese Farewell Dinner with your fellow travellers. Reflect on your amazing journey with new friends and plan your next adventure! A drink of your choice is included.

After breakfast transfer to Haneda Airport for your onward journey. (B)