Japan: Tokyo Kyoto and Osaka

On arrival into Tokyo International Airport (also known as Haneda Airport), you’ll be met and directed to the train that will take you to your hotel. You’ll also be given your Japan Rail Pass, the best and quickest way to travel around. It’s also a very enjoyable way to see the different regions of Japan.

Once you’ve reached your hotel, settle in and relax and before heading off to spend three nights exploring Tokyo's assorted cultural and culinary charms. Our experts can suggest memorable experiences that match your passions and help you uncover the essence of Tokyo.

Today, you'll bid farewell to Tokyo and continue on your way to the famous town of Hakone. Celebrated for its Mount Fuji location and expansive national park, you can choose whether to travel on foot, by water or by train - or all three - to see the many sights on offer. Discover the onsen, natural hot springs, and take a cable car up to Mount Owakudani, where you’ll find views of the rivers and remote volcanic landscapes below.

Navigate the waters of Lake Ashinoko, which was formed by volcanic eruptions 3,000 years ago, and take in the mountainous sights from a different perspective. Keep your fingers crossed for clear skies to get the best view and perfect picture of Mount Fuji.

This evening, spend the night in Japanese inn-style accommodation, in a ryokan with tatami (straw mats) and onsen baths. Enjoy a beautiful meal while dressed in a Japanese kimono.

Leave Hakone behind and continue your Best of Japan Tour in Takayama. Travelling by the super-fast Shinkansen bullet train, make sure to get a window seat for views of the passing scenery as you journey to the Hida alpine region.

Gain a true understanding of a traditional, remote alpine village in Takayama, with its excellently-preserved wooden houses and hilly surroundings.

Enjoy a second night of authentic Japanese living in another ryokan in this peaceful region.

Bid farewell to Takayama and continue on your travels to Kanazawa.

You can become better acquainted with the city at your own pace. Commonly referred to as 'little Kyoto', Kanazawa is home to the 1600s Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle. You can also spend some time in the many museums and handicraft shops.

Next, we recommend using your express bus pass to make a visit to UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawa-go. Situated in the mountainous Ōno District, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, it's popular due to its gasshō-zukuri style, thatched farmhouses. This truly is a lovely spot to spend a few hours, with its picturesque network of houses, museums and restaurants.

Return to your Kanazawa accommodation to rest before setting off again in the morning.

Depart Kanazawa and take the Limited Express Thunderbird Train to Kyoto. On arrival, settle into your hotel and relax before embarking on a memorable exploration of the city over the next two days.

As you're here for three nights, there's plenty of time to delve into each fascinating facet of Kyoto.

After breakfast in Kyoto, your exploration can begin in earnest with a local private guided tour of the Buddhist Temple, Kinkakuji, which is frequently referred to as the Golden Pavilion.

From here you’ll visit Nijo Castle, encircled by beautifully curated gardens, before visiting Heian Shrine, a grand structure built in homage to the emperors of the city.

Indulge in some shopping and local cuisine at the popular Nishiki Market, or 'Kyoto's Kitchen', before heading on to Kiyomizu Temple. Here, you'll be able to enjoy a fabulous view of the city from the 13-metre high veranda.

Today, you can tour Kyoto at your own pace. Why not take tea at one of the traditional teahouses, or take a trip to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest? Explore the many Zen gardens and sample some Michelin-starred dining at one of the many restaurants in the city.

Alternatively, take a train to Nara Park and explore the temples and 8th century artwork, before feeding the deer that roam freely.

Return to your Kyoto hotel for your third and final night in this beautiful city.

Embark on the next stage of your Japan tour with a train to Hiroshima. As you travel through the country, you'll spot Himeji Castle and the Seto Ohashi Bridge, connecting Shikoku Island with the mainland.

Possibly best known for being the target of the 1945 atomic bomb, Hiroshima has emerged from the devastation of the Second World War and is today one of Japan's most atmospheric, bustling cities. There are numerous great places to eat, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

Once you have settled into your new hotel, we recommend you visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which is a place of contemplation and reflection.

Tonight, spend the first of two nights in Hiroshima at your hotel.

Hiroshima is open to you to explore as you wish, with many sights and attractions to take in.

Perhaps you'd like to board the train to Miyajimaguchi port, before jumping on a boat to Miyajima, a famous island in the Inland Sea? Take a photo opportunity at the Floating Torii Gate and visit the stunning temples and shrines in the area.

For those looking for some exercise, take a walk up to the summit of Mount Misen for panoramic views of the islands. Or you can opt for a cable car ride for a more serene way to sightsee.

Return to your hotel for your last night in Hiroshima.

This morning, you'll board the bullet train to Osaka. Visit Osaka Castle and scale the heights of the Umeda Sky Building observatory for 360 degree views of the city. Sampling the local cuisine while you're here is also highly recommended.

Do some last-minute shopping to pick up souvenirs and savour a Japanese meal one last more before setting off to Kansai Airport and boarding your flight back home.