Ancient & Modern Japan

Discover the Land of the Rising Sun, a fusion of old temples and modern towers, lively cities and tranquil mountain towns

Ancient & Modern Japan

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Trip Fee

$ 7.720

Single Room Difference

$ 1.395

Date

24 August - 06 September 2026

Trip Information

Ancient wooden temples, ultra-modern towers. Zen gardens, neon lights. The blend of old and new in Japan is captivating. In this recently refreshed itinerary, we explore Honshu, the largest Japanese island, and discover the serene shrines and gardens of Kyoto and Nara, plus the rarely visited mountainous heartland of castles and spas. There’s also time to stay in Hiroshima, explore samurai culture in Kanazawa, and enjoy the lakeside town of Kawaguchiko. Our last stop is futuristic Tokyo: sprawling, inimitably busy and extraordinary. Cherry blossom season: Experience the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossom season in Japan, when the sakura trees bloom with delicate pink blossoms. See the Dates & Prices tab for our special departures. One of Our Top Recommended Trips for 2026… Here’s Why A revamped and revitalized itinerary has breathed new life into what was already an incredible adventure. We now take you even deeper into the culture and natural wonders of Japan, so now’s really the best time to book − Sarah Puttnam, destination expert 

Activity Areas

Cultural Heritage
Cultural Wonders
Culture
Culture Bestsellers
Natural Wonders
Rail Journeys

Region & Country & City

Asia: Japan, Japanese Alps, Kyoto, Sakura Cherry Blossom

Included in the Price

All accommodation: 13 Classic nights (hotels)
- All breakfasts and two dinners
- Immersive itinerary with all public transport (train, bus, metro and ferry) and listed activities
- Expert tour leader to enhance your adventure
- A personal audio headset and suitcase cover

Not Included In The Price

Request a single room if required, purchase travel insurance and arrange any visas and vaccinations. You also need to arrange your own arrival and departure transfers, as these are not included on this tour. Also, check out Discover South Korea, which you can combine with this adventure.

Map

Itinerary

Day 1 Adventure starts in Kyoto

Begin in Kyoto, an atmospheric city amid beautiful hills. Around 6pm, say konnichiwa to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. Your tour leader then ensures a big welcome by arranging a group dinner. Want more time in Kyoto? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Day 2 Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji temple

With more than 2,000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto is a treasure house of Japanese heritage. Unlike many other Japanese towns, it escaped the ravages of both the Second World War and modern urban development, keeping intact much of the spirit and architecture of traditional Japan. Today, we have an introductory tour of the city. Starting with a visit to the impressive Nijo Castle, built in 1603 as a residence for the Tokugawa shoguns, before moving onto the Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, built in 1397 as a summer villa for the shogun Yoshimitsu Ashikaga. We then visit the Ryoan-ji temple, home to the most famous rock garden in Japan. After, we head to central Kyoto, with free time to eat a leisurely late lunch at a local restaurant, relax at the hotel or explore Kyoto more.

Day 3 Explore the old capital, Nara • Return to Kyoto and visit Fushimi Inari Taisha and historic Gion

Enjoy a trip to Nara, the ancient capital of Japan (approximately one hour each way). With eight World Heritage sites, it’s second only to Kyoto as a repository of Japan’s cultural legacy. Our walking tour includes a visit to the best-known temples and shrines, including the Todai-ji Great Buddha temple. Built in 752 by Emperor Shomu, this 49ft (15m) tall bronze Buddha is housed in what is reputed to be the largest wooden building in the world. We also spend time in the Nara Koen Park (home to large numbers of overfed and slightly unruly deer) and visit the attractive outer grounds of the Kasuga Shinto shrine. Later in the afternoon, we return to Kyoto and stop at the Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Fushimi Inari is the most important of several thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. As we head towards early evening, we can walk around Gion, the most famous geisha district in Kyoto. Packed with bars, restaurants and traditional teahouses, Gion is most atmospheric in the early evening, when the lanterns are lit. At this time, we may also see an apprentice geisha on the way to an appointment, though it’s rare to see one. Alternatively, stroll around Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s Kitchen. It’s a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi.

Day 4 Bullet train to Hiroshima • Visit Miyajima island and see the famous floating torii gate

Today is our first ride on the shinkansen (bullet train) as we depart Kyoto and speed to Hiroshima (approximately two hours). We then make a short excursion by local train and ferry to the beautiful island of Miyajima, where we visit the famous floating torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine. Built on the water, this torii appears to float when the tide is high; combined with a backdrop of Mount Misen, it’s a sight to behold. Back in Hiroshima, you have free time to explore. Options include the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower to visit the observation deck and bar with views over Peace Memorial Park. Alternatively, there’s the feudal-era Shukkeien Garden for a peaceful wander around the pond. Important: As there is no storage for large suitcases on the shinkansen, you will need to pack a small overnight bag for two nights (nights 4 and 5). You are reunited with your main luggage at the Kanazawa hotel on Day 6.

Day 5 Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park • Afternoon transfer to Kobe

Spend time at Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Museum, both monuments to the fateful day in August 1945 when the city was struck by the first wartime use of the atomic bomb. In the park, there’s a symbolic flame that will only be extinguished when the last nuclear weapon on Earth has been destroyed. After, we head to Kobe by train (approximately 1hr 45min) where we stop for the night. This compact port city is easy to explore on foot, so food-lovers might want to head out and try the world-renowned Kobe beef at source. This evening, there is the option to join your leader for a Kobe beef dinner. Please advise your tour leader at the start of the trip if you’d like to join so they can ensure a reservation is made for the group. There can be a charge for cancellations so once committed to the meal, please avoid cancelling your attendance.

Day 6 Train to Kanazawa • Explore the Kenrokuen Gardens

Travel by Thunderbird and Shinkansen trains this morning and travel (approximately 3hr 15min) north to Kanazawa, tracking the shores of Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan. In the western Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa is an atmospheric town that once rivalled Kyoto as the historic jewel of mainland Japan and is renowned for its arts, wealth and abundant seafood. After lunch in Kanazawa, we visit the Kenrokuen Gardens, which is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan with a large artificial pond and flora that changes dramatically through the seasons.

Day 7 Explore the Nagamachi samurai district • Visit Omicho Market and the historic Higashichaya geisha district

Start with a trip to Nagamachi, the samurai district of Kanazawa during the Edo period. Here, we visit the Nomura Samurai House & Garden, a well-preserved representation of a wealthy samurai’s home. We continue to explore Nagamachi, finding samurai residences, narrow lanes and canals. After, we visit the 300-year-old Omicho Market, a bustling marketplace where chefs, locals and visitors stock up on fresh produce, including freshly caught seafood from the Sea of Japan. This afternoon, we visit Higashi Chaya, one of Kanazawa’s largest geisha districts. Important: You need to pack a small overnight bag as your luggage will be transferred to Takayama tonight. You are reunited with your main luggage at the Takayama hotel on Day 8.

Day 8 Bus to Takayama via a historic village in Shirakawa-go

We travel (approximately 1hr 30min) by bus to Shirakawa-go, a secluded mountainous region where the historic villages are populated by gassho-zukuri – uniquely designed farmhouses with steep thatched roofs that were built to withstand heavy winter snowfall and provide a large attic space for the cultivation of silkworms. Take a leisurely walk through the picture-perfect mountain village, with the opportunity to visit some of the oldest buildings. After, we transfer (approximately one hour) by bus to the old town of Takayama, where we visit the Hida no Sato Open-Air Museum, a collection of 30 traditional Hida houses and other village buildings from the Edo period. We spend two nights in Takayama with plenty of time to appreciate the charm and ambience of this delightful spot in the majestic Hida Mountains.

Day 9 Orientation tour in Takayama • Tea ceremony followed by a free afternoon to explore

Today is set aside to explore Takayama. Start with an orientation tour, which begins at the Morning Market, held daily alongside the Miyagawa River. We also wander around the historic Sanmachi district, before taking part in a relaxed and welcoming tea ceremony experience. There is no need for complicated manners or formal attire; our hosts introduce the traditions of the tea ceremony while preparing matcha for you, making it an accessible and enjoyable cultural insight. After, you have free time to explore, in which you can treat yourself to a local lunch and sake tasting, before stopping at the numerous lacquerware and antique shops. You may also want to visit the old Government House of Takayama-jinya to learn about the lives of medieval Japanese officials and the way they dealt (often not so compassionately) with those in their charge. Another option is to stroll along the temple-lined Higashiyama Walkway and visit the temples and attractions created by the medieval warlord, Kanamori Nagachika.

Day 10 Direct bus to Matsumoto • Explore Matsumoto Castle

This morning, we travel (approximately 2hr 30min) by direct bus to the historic castle town of Matsumoto, where we can first drop our luggage at the hotel. We then visit Matsumoto Castle, otherwise known as Crow Castle due to its all-black exterior. Built in 1504, it’s one of the best-preserved castles in Japan, most others having been destroyed following the Meiji Restoration. The castle preserves its original interior and structure, with very tall steps and steep staircases, which some might find difficult to ascend and descend. For the rest of the day, we have time to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. We recommend taking a leisurely stroll after dinner to see the impressive Matsumoto Castle by night.

Day 11 Journey to Kawaguchiko to visit Oishi Park and kimono museum

This morning, we travel by private transfer (approximately 2hr 30min) to the picturesque town of Kawaguchiko, which sits by Lake Kawaguchi. If the conditions are right, you can even see Mount Fuji reflected in the waters. This afternoon, we visit the lakeside Oishi Park, again with views of Fuji in the right conditions, before visiting Itchiku Kubota Art Museum with its impressive architecture inspired by the natural world and beautiful kimono displays. Some departures fall when the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum is closed; in those instances, we visit the Matsumoto City Museum of Art on Day 10 instead. Important: As there is no room to store large suitcases on the buses and subway/public transportation tomorrow, you need to pack a small overnight bag this morning before departing Matsumoto. You are reunited with your main luggage in Tokyo on Day 12.

Day 12 Travel by bus to Tokyo • City tour including the Senso-ji temple

Travel (approximately 1hr 45min) by bus to Tokyo this morning. After arrival, we use the highly efficient subway system to visit Tokyo landmarks, including the lively Senso-ji Temple in the historic district of Asakusa. Explore the vibrant temple grounds, stroll along the bustling Nakamise shopping street, and soak up the traditional atmosphere that has made this area a beloved destination for centuries. We finish our tour in the late afternoon, with the remainder of the day at leisure. Options include heading to Ueno Station to roam the lively market street of Ameyokocho or wander nearby to experience a nostalgic downtown Tokyo atmosphere, complete with many eateries and shops beneath the train tracks. In the evening, the entertainment possibilities are almost limitless with the Tokyo nightlife as exciting as anywhere in Asia.

Day 13 Free day for individual exploration • Optional karaoke farewell night

Today has been left free for individual exploration of Tokyo with a one-day metro pass included. We recommend visiting the forest-wrapped Meiji Shrine. From there, cross over to the upscale Omotesando street, sometimes called the Champs Elysee of Tokyo. If you’re interested in culture or shopping, there are limitless opportunities with districts such as Ginza, known for its exclusive stores, Shibuya, home to the busiest intersection in the world, and Shinjuku, the hub of Tokyo nightlife. Your tour leader can advise on how best to spend your free day in Tokyo. This evening, you can join your group and tour leader for a farewell dinner, followed by optional karaoke.

Day 14 Adventure ends in Tokyo

You've seen the old and new in Japan, ridden the iconic bullet train and immersed yourself in samurai culture, but now our adventure comes to end. Alternatively, if you’d like a bit more time to explore energetic Tokyo, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Travel Dates

24 August - 06 September 2026 $ 7.720

13 - 26 September 2026 $ 7.900

20 September - 03 October 2026 $ 7.720

27 September - 10 October 2026 $ 6.960

04 - 17 October 2026 $ 8.170

11 - 24 October 2026 $ 8.170

18 - 31 October 2026 $ 8.170

19 October - 01 November 2026 $ 8.170

25 October - 07 November 2026 $ 8.170

26 October - 08 November 2026 $ 8.170

01 - 14 November 2026 $ 8.170

08 - 21 November 2026 $ 7.795

15 - 28 November 2026 $ 7.260

22 November - 05 December 2026 $ 7.795

29 November - 12 December 2026 $ 6.870

28 February - 13 March 2027 $ 7.495

07 - 20 March 2027 $ 7.795

11 - 24 March 2027 $ 7.845

14 - 27 March 2027 $ 7.845

15 - 28 March 2027 $ 7.945

18 - 31 March 2027 $ 7.560

21 March - 03 April 2027 $ 8.395

22 March - 04 April 2027 $ 8.395

25 March - 07 April 2027 $ 8.395

29 March - 11 April 2027 $ 8.395

04 - 17 April 2027 $ 8.395

05 - 18 April 2027 $ 8.395

08 - 21 April 2027 $ 8.395

11 - 24 April 2027 $ 8.395

09 - 22 May 2027 $ 7.945

16 - 29 May 2027 $ 7.945

20 June - 03 July 2027 $ 8.395

30 June - 13 July 2027 $ 7.495

23 August - 05 September 2027 $ 7.870

12 - 25 September 2027 $ 8.245

19 September - 02 October 2027 $ 8.245

26 September - 09 October 2027 $ 8.245

03 - 16 October 2027 $ 8.245

10 - 23 October 2027 $ 8.245

17 - 30 October 2027 $ 8.545

18 - 31 October 2027 $ 8.545

24 October - 06 November 2027 $ 8.545

25 October - 07 November 2027 $ 8.545

31 October - 13 November 2027 $ 8.545

07 - 20 November 2027 $ 8.545

14 - 27 November 2027 $ 8.545

21 November - 04 December 2027 $ 7.870

28 November - 11 December 2027 $ 7.870

27 February - 11 March 2028 $ 7.870

05 - 18 March 2028 $ 7.870

09 - 22 March 2028 $ 7.870

12 - 25 March 2028 $ 8.545

13 - 26 March 2028 $ 8.545

16 - 29 March 2028 $ 8.545

19 March - 01 April 2028 $ 8.545

20 March - 02 April 2028 $ 8.545

23 March - 05 April 2028 $ 8.545

27 March - 09 April 2028 $ 8.545

02 - 15 April 2028 $ 8.545

03 - 16 April 2028 $ 8.545

06 - 19 April 2028 $ 8.545

09 - 22 April 2028 $ 8.545

07 - 20 May 2028 $ 7.870

14 - 27 May 2028 $ 7.870

18 June - 01 July 2028 $ 7.870

28 June - 11 July 2028 $ 7.870

21 August - 03 September 2028 $ 7.870

10 - 23 September 2028 $ 8.545

17 - 30 September 2028 $ 8.545

24 September - 07 October 2028 $ 8.545

01 - 14 October 2028 $ 8.545

08 - 21 October 2028 $ 8.545

15 - 28 October 2028 $ 8.695

16 - 29 October 2028 $ 8.695

22 October - 04 November 2028 $ 8.695

23 October - 05 November 2028 $ 8.695

29 October - 11 November 2028 $ 8.695

05 - 18 November 2028 $ 8.695

12 - 25 November 2028 $ 8.695

19 November - 02 December 2028 $ 8.695

26 November - 09 December 2028 $ 8.545

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