Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Narita or Haneda International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Tokyo.
Day 2 Tokyo
Start your day in Asakusa, where you will explore the historic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and stroll along Nakamise-dori Street, a lively shopping avenue offering traditional snacks and souvenirs. Next, head to Shibuya, home to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, where you can experience the bustling energy of one of Tokyo's busiest districts and meet the iconic Hachiko Statue. Then visit Kubota Sake Mirai to explore and savor a variety of sake. The experience uses AI to analyze your taste preferences from a blind tasting of ten different sakes, guiding you to a perfect match tailored to your palate. Continue to Shinjuku and visit Kabukicho, the city's famous entertainment district, bustling with neon lights and an array of unique attractions. Next, venture into Omoide Yokocho, a nostalgic alleyway lined with tiny izakayas and eateries, offering an authentic taste of traditional Japanese cuisine and a glimpse into the past. This historic area is renowned for its cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and the charm of old Tokyo.
Day 3 Tokyo
Day at leisure for your own activities. In the evening we suggest you visit whiskey bars.
Day 4 Tokyo to Kyoto
After breakfast, take a bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto. Upon arrival in Kyoto, you will explore the sacred grounds of Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its vibrant torii gates that wind through a forested mountainside. Then, you will admire the architectural marvels of Kiyomizu-dera temple, offering panoramic views of Kyoto from its elevated wooden stage. Finally, you will stroll through the historic Gion district, where traditional teahouses and the graceful art of geisha enchant visitors with a glimpse into Japan's past.
Day 5 Kyoto
You will explore the scenic Arashiyama area, where you can wander through the tranquil Sagano bamboo grove, known for its towering bamboo stalks swaying gently in the breeze. Your tour will also include a visit to Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its stunning garden landscapes and historic architecture. Then you will visit Suntory Yamazaki Whiskey Distillery. Suntory Yamazaki whisky is celebrated as Japan's oldest malt whisky distillery, founded in 1923. The distillery provides insightful tours showcasing its meticulous craftsmanship, from the whisky-making process to tastings of their renowned single malts. It's a delightful experience for whisky enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, offering a blend of history, scenic beauty, and exquisite flavours.
Day 6 Kyoto to Osaka
You will explore the exquisite beauty of Kinkakuji, the renowned Golden Pavilion, with its shimmering golden exterior set against a serene pond and lush gardens. Afterward, exploring Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's Kitchen, immerses visitors in a sensory delight of bustling stalls offering fresh seafood, traditional snacks, and local Kyoto specialties, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. In the afternoon, you will travel to Osaka. Walk through Dotonbori, Osaka's bustling entertainment district, teeming with restaurants and food stalls. Here, tempt your palate with Osaka's signature street foods like piping-hot takoyaki, crispy tempura, and savoury kushikatsu.
Day 7 Nada, Kobe
Morning at leisure to explore Osaka on your own. In the afternoon, travel to Nada in Kobe city where traditional breweries nestled among scenic landscapes. Immerse yourself in the art of sake brewing, learning about centuries-old techniques and sampling a variety of sake flavors, from smooth daiginjo to robust junmai. For today’s dinner, enjoy Kobe beef!
Day 8 Osaka to Hiroshima via Himeji
Today you will take a bullet train to Himeji, where you will explore one of Japan's most iconic and best-preserved feudal castles, Himeji Castle. Known as the White Heron Castle due to its brilliant white exterior, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Following your tour of the castle, you will continue your journey by bullet train to Hiroshima.
Day 9 Hiroshima
Take a ferry ride to Miyajima, renowned for the stunning Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate, which offers a breathtaking sight. Wander around the island's picturesque landscapes, interacting with friendly deer and sampling local delicacies like grilled oysters and maple leaf-shaped cakes. After exploring Miyajima, continue your journey to the Peace Memorial Park, a tranquil space dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing, featuring poignant landmarks like the A-Bomb Dome. Then visit the Peace Memorial Museum, where exhibits provide a deep and moving insight into the events of August 6, 1945, and the city's ongoing efforts towards promoting peace and reconciliation.
Day 10 Hiroshima to Kagoshima
After breakfast, take a bullet train from Hiroshima to Kagoshima. You will visit Sakurajima, an active stratovolcano known for its awe-inspiring beauty and historical significance. Its dynamic landscape and rich volcanic soil attract visitors seeking both natural wonder and cultural exploration.
Day 11 Kagoshima
Begin your day in Kagoshima with a visit to the historic Chiran Samurai Area, where you can stroll through well-preserved samurai residences and serene gardens, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal warrior culture. Later in the morning, immerse yourself in the poignant history at the Chiran Peace Museum, exploring exhibits and personal stories of kamikaze pilots from World War II. In the afternoon, continue to the nearby Shochu Distillery to tour the factory, witnessing the meticulous process of crafting Kagoshima's renowned distilled spirit and enjoying tastings of various shochu varieties.
Day 12 Depart Kagoshima
You will be transferred to Kagoshima Airport for your onward flight.
