Jewels of Japan

Fly overnight to Tokyo, Japan's capital, for a three-night stay. Tokyo was once known as Edo and was a small fishing town. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to soak up the local culture. (D)

Tokyo is the ultimate 24-hour city, but look behind its frantic, high-tech frontage and you'll find plenty of tranquil backstreets and old temples to explore. Begin today with a stroll through the Imperial Palace East Garden and then take time to explore the Tokyo National Museum to learn about Tokyo's historical heritage. After lunch, seek out the tranquillity at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa district, followed by a visit to the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree for panoramic views over the sprawling city below. (B/L/D)

Take a relaxed morning wander around the classical landscapes of the Hamarikyu Garden. Continue to the Meiji Shrine, the Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken before passing the famous Shibuya Crossing. The afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. This evening, take a relaxed dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay. (B/L/D)

Journey through the foothills of the iconic Mount Fuji to its base, where you will find the Fuji Five Lakes. The region is spectacular with the calm waters of the five lakes, formed by past volcanic eruptions, reflecting Fuji's picture-perfect cone. Head up Fuji's 5th Station for spectacular mountain vistas. Please note it is only possible to reach the 5th station if weather permits. After lunch, visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to view the elaborate dyed silk creations before exploring the Iyashi no Sato historical village, located on the western shores of Lake Saiko, famous for its thatched-roofed houses. Transfer around 1 hour to your hotel and check in. (B/L/D)

Visit Oshino Hakkai, a scenic area of ponds full of crystal-clear spring water created by Fuji's melting snow. Stroll around the area before trying your hand at making traditional Japanese soba noodles, which you will then tuck into for lunch. Drive around 2 hours to Mishima Station to board a 2-hour bullet train to Kyoto. An enchanting city, Kyoto was capital for a thousand years; today it is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens. Check in to your hotel and have dinner at a local restaurant. (B/L/D)

Enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto, starting with a visit to the spectacular Kiyomizu Temple. You will spend 1.5 hours on foot exploring the temple. Next, immerse yourself in the culture, learning the traditional Japanese handicraft of origami. After lunch, visit a traditional teahouse where you will be joined by a Tea Master, followed by a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine. With its thousands of vermillion torii gates, the Shrine stretches up Mount Inari (233m high). You will walk up part of the mountain and the incline allows a steady-paced walk. (B/L/D)

Begin the day with a visit to Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's most famous zen garden, and Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavillion due to its golden exterior. Continue around 1 hour by coach to Osaka to have lunch in the vibrant Dotonbori district. Transfer to the train station and take the bullet train to Hiroshima, a journey of 1 hour 40 minutes. A modern and prosperous city, Hiroshima will be forever remembered as the world's first atomic bomb target.. (B/L/D)

Hop on the ferry to Miyajima Island, where sightseeing will be at a leisurely pace on foot. Visit Itsukushima Shrine and explore the traditional market town at leisure. Return by ferry and then coach to Hiroshima and have lunch.

Later, visit the famous Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Please be aware that the museum may be confronting and upsetting for some group members and it is at your discretion if you wish to visit or enjoy time at leisure exploring the Peace Memorial Park. Also visit the Orizuru Tower. (B/L/D)

Travel to Himeji, with a rest stop along the way.

On arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the beautiful Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden. Himeji Castle is largely in its original condition so, please be mindful of your step when walking around. Transfer approximately 2 hours to Osaka for your overnight stay. (B/L/D)

This morning is free at leisure before you transfer to Osaka airport for your return flight home. (B)