Join us for a week and discover a country of complete contrasts. Tokyo is a modern city of high skyscrapers, congested streets and a busy lifestyle. Kyoto is a city of traditional temples and shrines and a more relaxed way of life, with more than a thousand years history. Pass the iconic Mont Fuji on the bullet train and photograph a Geisha in her unique traditional kimono. Experience what life is really like in this unique country.
*Today’s sightseeing programs may be subject to change without prior notice.
Depart London Heathrow for international flight to Osaka Kansai Airport.
We can also arrange departures from your local airport.
Arrive at Osaka Kansai international Airport. Be greeted by English speaking assistant and transfer by airport limousine bus to Kyoto.
There you will make your way to a traditional style Japanese inn (Ryokan).
Today enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto which will include Nijo Castle, the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa Shogun in 1603, noted for the contrast of its solemn appearance and gorgeous interiors. Then continue to the Golden Pavillion, with the most authentic and exquisite Japanese style garden. Also visit Kyoto Imperial Palace. Afternoon the tour continues with Sanju-Sangendo Hall and Kiyomizu Temple, where you will enjoy a sweeping view of the entire city from its lofty terrace, surrounded by a quaint old lane lined with pottery shops. The tour then takes you to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of some 40,000 inari-jinja shrines located all over Japan. The bright red Senbon Torii gates are a must-see attraction.
Today is free to explore the many other wonderful sights and temples in this traditional old city.
Today we take a ride on Japan’s famous Bullet Train – reaching speeds up to 300 kilometres per hour. On route you will have the opportunity to see Mount Fuji – Japan’s most sacred mountain.
Upon arrival Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station, walk to nearby Keio Plaza Hotel or similar in the city centre. The hotel is located in the skyscraper Shinjuku district directly opposite the Tokyo Metropolitan Government buildings. Shinjuku is the most modern area of Tokyo.
Start this morning with a tour to Tokyo Tower and enjoy a panoramic view from its observatory.
Then you will continue to the “Happoen” Japanese Garden, where you will have the opportunity to take part in a traditional tea ceremony. The tour then continues to the Imperial Palace Plaza with a short photo stop.
Drive past the National Diet Building (the Japanese House of Parliament) and then take a 40 minute Sumida River Cruise from Hinode pier of Tokyo Bay to Asakusa.
The tour finishes with a visit to the Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.
Today we take a deluxe motorcoach drive along the expressway to Mt. Fuji. We visit the Fuji Visitor Centre and then drive halfway up Mt. Fuji to the 5th Station, enjoying the natural scenery en route.
We then stop for lunch at the Hotel Highland Resort, before continuing to Lake Ashi for a relaxing cruise.
We then take a ride on the Mt. Komagatake Aerial Cableway, where we will get sweeping views of the celebrated Hakone National Park and Mt. Fuji from a distance.
Return to Tokyo late afternoon / early evening.
This morning transfer to Tokyo Narita Airport for flight home to London.
Ryokan are Japanese style inns found throughout the country, especially in hot spring resorts. More than just a place to sleep, ryokan are an opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality, incorporating elements such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine.
Keio Plaza Hotel is modern, simple, and convenient. It is the ideal location to explore the delights of the city of Tokyo. Located in central Tokyo and only minutes away from the most popular shopping and tourist attractions. The rooms are painted in soothing shades, and they are comfortable and functional.
Visit the website to see more!
Tour Price includes:
Tour Price excludes: