Classic Japan East to West – 14 Days | From £4,250 pp
From £4,250 per person
/
Per Person
WHY THIS JOURNEY WORKS
For many first-time visitors, deciding what to include in a two-week journey through Japan can feel overwhelming. This itinerary removes that uncertainty by combining the country's most rewarding destinations in a route that flows naturally from east to west.
Beginning in Tokyo, you'll experience the energy and innovation of modern Japan before slowing the pace around Mount Fuji and Hakone. Kyoto introduces the country's rich cultural heritage through temples, gardens and traditional neighbourhoods, while Hiroshima and Miyajima provide a thoughtful and memorable conclusion to the journey.
Throughout the itinerary, you'll stay in carefully selected accommodation chosen for its comfort, character and location. With knowledgeable local guides, memorable cultural experiences and Japan's outstanding rail network connecting each destination, you'll spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying everything the country has to offer.
Ideal for first-time visitors, this journey offers an excellent introduction to Japan's remarkable diversity while allowing enough time to appreciate each destination rather than simply passing through.
JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Discover Tokyo's fascinating blend of historic neighbourhoods and modern city life.
- Experience the beauty of the Mount Fuji region and Hakone.
- Travel aboard Japan's world-famous Shinkansen.
- Explore Kyoto with a knowledgeable local guide.
- Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
- Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
- Explore the iconic floating torii gate on Miyajima.
- Enjoy carefully selected boutique hotels and traditional Japanese accommodation throughout your journey.
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+44 7792 633368Email Address
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+44 7792 633368INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
- Tokyo with a Local Guide – Explore historic districts, vibrant neighbourhoods and everyday life in Japan's capital.
- Mount Fuji & Hakone – Experience spectacular scenery, volcanic landscapes and, weather permitting, unforgettable views of Mount Fuji.
- Shinkansen Journey – Travel between destinations on Japan's renowned high-speed railway.
- Kyoto with a Local Guide – Discover temples, gardens and traditional streets while learning about Kyoto's cultural heritage.
- Traditional Tea Ceremony – Experience one of Japan's best-loved cultural traditions.
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum – Reflect on one of the defining moments of modern history.
- Miyajima – Visit Itsukushima Shrine and the famous floating torii gate before exploring the island's peaceful walking trails.
Day 1 – Arrive Tokyo
Meet your assistant at Haneda Airport and transfer to your hotel. Time to rest after the flight or take a gentle walk locally to get your bearings. A simple neighbourhood dinner is recommended for an easy first evening.
Day 2 – Tokyo (Private Guided Day)
Full-day private guided introduction to Tokyo using public transport. Visit Sensō-ji in Asakusa, explore Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum, and walk through quieter areas such as Yanaka or Nezu. End the day at Tokyo Skytree for wide views across the city. Optional sumo demonstration and lunch show available.
Day 3 – Tokyo
A free day to explore at your own pace. Options include Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Omotesandō and Shibuya Crossing, or simply spending time in cafés and neighbourhood streets.
Day 4 – Tokyo → Hakone
Travel by limited express into the Hakone mountains. Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum before continuing to your ryokan. Evening kaiseki dinner and time to enjoy the onsen baths.
Day 5 – Hakone → Kanazawa
Early morning onsen and breakfast. Visit Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine before continuing north by rail to Kanazawa.
Day 6 – Kanazawa (Private Guided Day)
Full-day walking tour of Kanazawa, including the Nagamachi Samurai District, Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park and the Higashi Chaya teahouse district.
Day 7 – Kanazawa → Kyoto
Shinkansen to Kyoto. Afternoon at leisure to settle in or explore locally.
Day 8 – Kyoto (Private Guided Day)
Full-day guided exploration including Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nishiki Market and Nijō Castle. Walk through Gion in the late afternoon, followed by an evening cultural performance.
Day 9 – Kyoto
A free day to explore Kyoto. Options include Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets, Yasaka Pagoda and Sanjūsangen-dō. Afternoon samurai experience available.
Day 10 – Kyoto → Hiroshima
Morning at leisure before travelling by Shinkansen to Hiroshima. Evening free to explore the city and its well-known okonomiyaki restaurants.
Day 11 – Hiroshima & Miyajima (Private Guided Day)
Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, then continue to Miyajima Island to see Itsukushima Shrine and walk along the coast.
Day 12 – Hiroshima → Osaka
Shinkansen to Osaka. Evening exploring Dōtonbori and its street food scene.
Day 13 – Osaka
Free day in Osaka. Options include Kuromon Market, Shitennō-ji and Osaka Castle. Optional evening foodie walking tour.
Day 14 – Depart Japan
Private transfer to Kansai International Airport for your departure flight.