Your itinerary

Day 1 : UK/Tokyo

Meet your travelling companions in the executive lounge prior to your scheduled flight to Tokyo.

Day 2 : Tokyo

Arrival in Tokyo. Transfer to your hotel for a three night stay. Welcome drink and dinner this evening.

Day 3 : Tokyo

One of the world’s great cities, Tokyo is an amazing kaleidoscope of colour and movement. It’s a true showcase city where ultra-modern skyscrapers dot the skyline and wide bridges, deluxe hotels, spectacular theatres and elegant shopping plazas line the bustling streets, yet modern influences have not over whelmed the old. Amid the 21st century frenzy lie pockets of tradition and serenity – tea ceremonies, flower arrangements, festivals and old traditions are a constant reminder of the Japan of ‘Madame Butterfly’ and ‘The Mikado’. This morning we have included a city tour, which takes you to both the modern and traditional sights of Tokyo. We include dinner at a local restaurant this evening.

Day 4 : Tokyo

Free in Tokyo or you can join our full day optional excursion to the splendid volcanic cone of Mount Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan and visible from miles around on clear days.

Day 5 : Tokyo & Kyoto

Morning transfer to Tokyo station. Here you will board the famous Shinkansen, or Bullet Train, bound for Kyoto. The 325 mile journey takes 2½ hours and, weather permitting, you can enjoy views of magnificent Mount Fuji en route. Kyoto was the imperial capital for more than 1,000 years. It presents a near-perfect image of the old Japan – temples hovering over a silk scroll landscape, dreamy gardens and pavilions, multicoloured kimonos and a refined culture and lifestyle. It is the embodiment of a thousand years of civilisation. Kyoto is also the home of the geisha, young girls who are trained in the traditional arts of Japan. On arrival we have included a half day city tour including Nijo Castle and Kinkakuji Temple, whose graceful form is perfectly reflected in the still waters of the lake. Three nights’ accommodation has been arranged in the city.

Day 6 : Kyoto

Day at leisure to explore Kyoto or join our optional excursion to Hiroshima.

Day 7 : Nara

Half day included visit to Nara, Japan’s first imperial capital, known as the City of Temples. Nara is home to the Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden building, which houses the monumental Great Buddha. After an included Lunch, the afternoon will be at leisure. Farewell dinner and drink this evening.

Day 8 - 9 : Osaka/UK

Morning transfer to Osaka Airport for your return flight to the UK. You will arrive in the UK on day 9.