Day 1
Depart from your local airport, and then fly direct to Japan from Heathrow or wherever is most convenient.
Day 2
Arrive in Tokyo Haneda, where you are met by our representative and have a private transfer to your hotel. Remainder of the day relaxing after your long international flight(s).
Days 3 & 4
Two full days in Tokyo. We can arrange a private English-speaking guide and arrange innovative excursions to best explore the capital.
Day 5
Catch the train to either the Hakone National Park or to the Lake Kawaguchi region, both under the shadow of Mount Fuji. Check in to your luxury ryokan and explore / enjoy the region.
Day 6
A leisurely morning enjoying the onsen in your ryokan, before catching the bullet-train to Nagoya and then enjoying the Hida “Wide View” train travelling north in to the Japan Alps. Check in to your ryokan in Takayama. Kaiseki dinner in your ryokan in the evening.
Day 7
Spend the morning exploring Takayama with your guide, and then head out to Shirakawa-go (private vehicle) in the afternoon. We will make dinner reservations in one of Takayama’s best restaurants this evening.
Day 8
Morning at leisure in Takayama, strolling the ancient streets. Take the scenic railways back south to Nagoya and then the bullet-train on to Kyoto. You are met at the busy station and transferred directly to your accommodation. Meet you guide for dinner in the evening, eating like a local.
Days 9 & 10
Two full days to get to grips with Kyoto. Tick off the main sights by all means, but then our guides are also able to reveal a hidden, secret Kyoto. You can also use the second day to explore Arashiyama or nearby Nara.
Day 11
Morning at leisure in Kyoto. After lunch take a direct bullet-train from Kyoto to Hiroshima, where you are met at the station and taken by ferry over to Miyajima Island. Dinner in your ryokan.
Day 12
In the morning, take the ferry back to the mainland and spend the morning visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum with your guide, who can provide additional insight. Lunch is in Hiroshima, and you then head back to Miyajima Island for the afternoon, taking in the views from the top of Mount Misen.
Day 13
You are transferred back to Hiroshima Station and then catch a direct ‘Nozomi Express’ shinkansen back to Osaka. Transfer to your central hotel, where you check in at lunch time. Afternoon and evening free to explore Japan’s second city, famous for its culinary delights.
Day 14
Private transfer to Kansai Airport and fly directly home.