Discovering Japan

Welcome to Tokyo, the energetic and cosmopolitan capital of Japan. Marrying ancient traditions with modern innovations, Tokyo offers a sensory overload of neon lights, vibrant street fashion and exquisite cuisine. Transfer to your hotel, where a Welcome Dinner gives you the chance to meet your fellow travellers and Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort. 

A full-day tour of Tokyo begins with a trip to Hama-rikyu Garden in Tokyo Bay, to see an example of the precise art of Japanese gardening. Next, it’s on to the Asakusa, to explore Sensoji Temple, a 1400-year-old Buddhist temple dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Afterwards, pay a visit to the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine and the famous Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest intersection, before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Set off on foot to Shinjuku Station for your Insider Experience and your first journey on Japan railway. Arrive in Odawara and then transfer to Owakudani volcanic valley and enjoy a tour of its active sulphur vents and hot springs before taking a ride on the Hakone Ropeway to the Togendai station, nestled on the shores of the tranquil Lake Ashi. Take a relaxing cruise around the lake soaking in the panoramic views of snow-capped mountains before continuing to your hotel for the evening.

Insider Experience – Travel on the Narrow-Gauge Line Train

Journey by Limited Express train to Hakone, travelling on the picturesque narrow-gauge line and admiring views of beautiful, wooded valleys as your train traverses bridge and tunnels.

This morning, travel to Mount Fuji, arguably Japan’s most distinctive landmark, for your Insider Experience. Later, travel to the alpine town Matsumoto to spend the rest of the day at leisure. 

Insider Experience – Visit Fujisan World Heritage Center

After driving along the foot of the famous mountain, disembark at the Fujisan World Heritage Center to learn more about the country’s tallest volcano. Continue to Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station, where, if the sun is shining, you will be able to see the iconic Japanese peak. 

After your Insider Experience, continue to Matsumoto Castle. This stunning, well-preserved castle dates back to the 16th century and is famous for its black exterior and elegant architectural design. Travel towards Nagoya, taking in the scenic beauty of the ancient Kiso Valley along the way. Visit the historic post towns of Tsumago and Magome, with free time to explore before continuing on to Nagoya.

Insider Experience – Guided Tour of Miso Factory

Enjoy a guided tour of a miso factory to discover how this essential ingredient is made. Discover the step-by-step process of fermenting soybeans with salt, then sample the distinctive flavours that are central to Japanese cuisine.

Board your limited express from Nagoya and travel to Himeji, where you’ll visit one of Japan’s most emblematic castles — the World Heritage-listed Himeji Castle. Delve into the rich history of this beautifully preserved castle and historic site, which has remarkably avoided damage from conflicts and natural disasters. Explore Kokoen Garden adjacent to the castle, featuring nine themed gardens such as Tea Ceremony Garden, Garden of Pine Trees, Garden of Bamboo, and Garden of Flowers, and more. Continue to Hiroshima on your Insider Experience. Arrive in Hiroshima and transfer to your hotel. The evening is free to relax or explore at your leisure.

Insider Experience – Bullet Train Journey

Experience the thrill of travelling on Japan's renowned bullet train, locally known as "Shinkansen". Enjoy the smooth journey despite travelling at speeds of up to 320 kilometres per hour.

Enjoy your Insider Experience before spending time at leisure on the Island to uncover more shrines and museums. Keep an eye out for the sacred deer before returning to Hiroshima for a night at leisure. Maybe head to a lively izakaya for snacks and beer or seek out the famous okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake. 

Insider Experience – Miyajima Shrine

Travel by local train and ferry to Miyajima Island and spend time admiring the famous Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto shrine and the iconic Torii Gate, which appears to float on the island’s waters at high tide.   

This morning, visit Hiroshima’s World Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome Museum—powerful reminders of the events of 1945. Later, travel to Kyoto and enjoy your included Insider Experiences.

Insider Experience – Bullet Train Adventure

Japan’s Shinkansen (bullet trains) offer thrilling journeys across the country. Experience the speed, efficiency and renowned onboard service of Japan’s iconic bullet train from Hiroshima to Kyoto. 

Insider Experience – Spot a Geisha in Gion

Stroll through the atmospheric streets of Kyoto’s famed Gion district, keeping an eye out for geiko and maiko—Kyoto’s geisha and their apprentices—as they scuttle between traditional teahouses. Afterwards, enjoy a performance at Gion Corner Theatre.

Insider Experience – Traditional Japanese Dinner

Indulge in a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant in Pontochow, a narrow alley filled with atmospheric dining venues renowned for their use of fresh, local produce. 

Begin your exploration of Kyoto, visiting the former imperial capital's most famous landmarks including Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), with its shimmering gold leaf pagoda mirrored in the reflection pond, and surrounded by lush forest. Afterwards, embark on your Insider Experience, before enjoying free time in the afternoon to explore Nishiki Market at your own pace.

Insider Experience — Japanese Tea Ceremony

Delve into traditional Japanese culture at a special tea ceremony and discover the rich variety of teas used. Witness the strict practice of adhering to the precise steps followed during a Japanese tea ceremony and gain a deeper insight into this time-honoured tradition.

Today you’ll enjoy a day trip to Nara, a picturesque city with an abundance of impressive temples. See Todai-ji Temple, the largest wooden building in the world and its Great Buddha and Nigatsu-do Shrine. Founded in 745 by Emperor Shomu, Todai-ji is a vast Buddhist temple complex that was constructed as a symbol of imperial power. Its famous Buddha towers overhead at 15 metres tall and is the largest Buddha statue in Japan. Later, it’s time for a stroll through Nara’s famous Deer Park, home to over 1,200 wild deer who freely roam the park, grazing on the spacious lawns. En route to Kyoto enjoy your Insider Experience. 

Insider Experience – Guided Tour and Tasting at Nara Sake Brewery

Indulge in a unique Insider Experience on a guided tour of Nara Sake Brewery. Learn about traditional sake brewing methods and sample a selection of handcrafted varieties, each with its own distinctive flavour and character.

Leaving delightful Kyoto after breakfast this morning, we savour time in the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Stroll through the towering bamboo grove and marvel at one of the most breathtaking and iconic sites in all of Japan. Transfer by coach to Osaka and visit the Umeda Observatory in the iconic Umeda Sky building, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views over Osaka and its castle from the open-air deck.

Continue to the lively Dotonbori District filled with neon lights, extravagant billboards and bustling restaurants and bars. Celebrate your final evening with a Farewell Dinner in your hotel. 

Transfer to Kansai International Airport after breakfast for your onward flight.