Images of Japan
11 days from £3835 per person
Japan has a gracious, hospitable people for whom culture, ceremony and protocol form a major part of everyday life. Starting in Tokyo, visit the Meiji Shrine, the famous Ginza district and Asakusa – part of Tokyo’s old town. From here travel by train to Hakone, stay in a ryokan and explore Hakone National Park with its fabulous views of Mt Fuji before continuing to ancient Kyoto which is home to an astonishing 2,000 shrines and temples including seventeen UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This largely self-guided tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the real Japan.
Route: Tokyo – Hakone – Kyoto – Tokyo
Itinerary Highlights
Senso-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple in Asakusa, central Tokyo. Tokyo’s oldest temple, the grounds have been filled with traditional food and souvenir shops since the 18th century.
With the marvellous backdrop of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi and Hakone village form one of Japan’s most recognizable scenes. The lake and hills can be explored by boat and cable car.
For more than a thousand years, Kyoto was the Imperial capital of Japan. The city is filled with temples, palaces and gardens. This is the Japan of geishas and ancient inns.
Itinerary: Images of Japan
You will be met by a representative on arrival in Tokyo and taken to the airport shuttle bus where you will be transferred to your accommodation. One of the world’s greatest cities with its futuristic skyline, dazzling neon signs and surging crowds, it is easy to forget that Tokyo was once a small 16th century fishing village. Spend the afternoon at leisure to discover this fascinating city, ensuring to try some local Japanese food. (N)
Accommodation in Tokyo: The Park Hotel (or similar)
Today enjoy a day of sightseeing with your guide. Visit the Meiji Shrine this morning, which is dedicated to the late Emperor Meiji. Continue to the tree-lined avenue of Omotesando and then take the metro to Ginza, Tokyo’s infamous entertainment district. Explore Ginza, the Imperial Palace before taking a walk through the East gardens. Visit Asakusa which is home to the iconic Sensoji Temple and Geisha district. Later that afternoon enjoy a cruise on the Sumida Gawa River to Hamarikyu Teien, a stunning landscaped garden surrounded by a sea of skyscrapers. (B)
Accommodation in Tokyo: The Park Hotel (or similar)
Today explore Tokyo on your own. A must-to is to visit the world famous Toyosu Fish Market, a sprawling market of fresh fish and seafood – don't miss the exciting tuna auction too! Discover Tokyo’s excellent art galleries and museums and explore the technology district of Akihabara. Alternatively, travel out of Tokyo and visit the UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine complex, which sits high in the mountains of Nikko National Park. (B)
Accommodation in Tokyo: The Park Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation in Hakone: Yugiriso Ryokan (or similar)
Accommodation in Hakone: Yugiriso Ryokan (or similar)
Accommodation in Kyoto: Granvia Hotel (or similar)
Today explore the World Heritage Sites of Kyoto with a local guide. After breakfast visit the 17th century Nijo Castle which is famous for its Momoyama architecture and beautiful gardens. Continue to iconic Kinkakuji, otherwise known as the Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto’s most famous temples and the 15th century Daitoku-ji Zen temple complex, home to one of Japan’s best Zen rock gardens. End the day exploring the old wooden buildings and atmospheric lanes of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district and uncovering the authentic Geisha culture that is still present throughout the city. (B)
Accommodation in Kyoto: Granvia Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation in Kyoto: Granvia Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation in Tokyo: The Park Hotel (or similar)
**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
What's included
- International flights from the UK
- Train travel as specified
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's not included
- Cost of visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
Guide to Price
The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.
14 February 2019