Luxury Japan in Style – Tailor-made Japan Holiday

Itinerary Highlights

Explore the Sensoji Temple and the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo
Indulge in a gourmet Japanese Kaiseki dinner during your stay at a ryokan
Discover “Shodo”, the art of Japanese calligraphy
Be entertained by a Geisha or Maiko at a special dinner

What's Included

Accommodation Throughout
International Flights

7 nights from £14,389 per person

Sarah

Travel Specialist

01244 722 137

I'm here to tailor-make your perfect Asia holiday. Give me a call and I'll use my expertise to create your personalised experience.

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Whether you’re after a zen-filled honeymoon or cultural adventure, truly timeless Japan is sure to seduce you. This seven-night introduction to the country is perfect for the discerning traveller. Take in the iconic sights of Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto in style with your own private car and guide, and stay in luxury accommodation throughout.

In addition to visiting beautiful and thought-provoking shrines and temples, plus exploring modern day Tokyo and ancient Kyoto, you’ll experience a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony, learn the art of traditional Japanese calligraphy, how to wear a kimono and be entertained by a Geisha.

Itinerary

Day 1 UK to Toyko

After arriving in Tokyo you’ll start at the Meijijingu shrine, built in 1920 to honour modern Japan’s first emperor, Emperor Meiji. Continue to the busy streets of Omotesando, Harajuku, Shibuya, and Aoyama – lined with fashionable shops and architectural wonders, this is a great area for strolling. End the day at Takeshita Dori, a small yet busy pedestrian lane lined with shops; you will be overwhelmed by the variety of items on display.

Staying at

Kshiki Restaurant at Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Japan

Deluxe Premier Bedroom at Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Japan

Mandarin Suite Living Room at Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Japan

Day 2 Tokyo

This morning explore Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest and best-preserved districts. Walk along Nakamise Dori Street which dates back to the Edo period and leads you to Sensoji Temple. Afterwards, head to Akihabara, nicknamed “Electric Town” and considered the place to go for video games and electronics plus cosplay, manga and anime merchandise. This afternoon visit Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum, and learn Shodo – Japanese calligraphy.

Staying at

Day 3 Tokyo

Today visit the district near the former Tsukiji fish market, a real treasure trove for foodies. Next, enjoy a wonderful walk through Imperial Palace Park, surrounded by the moats and massive stone walls of the Imperial Palace. Move on to Odaiba in Tokyo Bay and visit the amazing MORI Building Digital Art Museum. The day ends with a visit to the Ginza district, possibly Tokyo’s most famous upmarket shopping, dining and entertainment district.

Staying at

Day 4 Tokyo – Hakone

Transfer to Hakone, a volcanic national park near Mount Fuji. Take a ropeway ride to Owakudani Valley for an amazing lake cruise to enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Fuji (sightings not guaranteed). Enjoy Hakone Open Air Museum’s sculptures in harmony with picturesque views of the surrounding valley and mountains. Indoor galleries include works by Picasso, Rodin, Miro and Henry Moore. Tonight stay in a traditional ryokan and indulge in a gourmet Japanese Kaiseki dinner.

Staying at

Dinner Restaurant at Hakone Kowakien Tenyu, Japan

Maisonette Superior Room with Open-air Bath at Hakone Kowakien Tenyu, Japan

Superior Room with Open-air Bath at Hakone Kowakien Tenyu, Japan

Day 5 Hakone – Kyoto

This morning you will be transferred to Odawara Sation where you will take the bullet train to Kyoto. Then head to Nara, a Japanese capital in the 8th century. Visit Todaiji Temple, one of Japan’s most famous and historic temples. Wander around Nara Park and visit Kasugataisha Shrine; marvel at the many stone lanterns leading up to the shrine and see the interior, famous for its bronze hanging lanterns.

Staying at

Spa Swimming Pool at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, Japan

Lobby Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, Japan

Corner Suite Kita at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, Japan

Day 6 Kyoto

Discover Kyoto, starting at the Bamboo Forest at Arashiyama. Listen to the leaves rustling in the wind and marvel at the height of the bamboo immortalised in so many films. Visit the beautiful Golden Pavilion Kinkakuji Temple and the serene Ryoanji Temple, famous for its sand and rock garden. Later enjoy an introduction to Japanese kimono dressing (alternative experiences available if preferred).

Staying at

Day 7 Kyoto

Today experience one of Japan’s most famous cultural practices: a traditional Tea Ceremony. Visit Kiyomizudera Temple which has magnificent views of the city. Wander Gion district, passing through the old neighbourhood outside the temple, now lined with shops and cafes. Don’t miss Nishiki, where you can discover Kyoto’s distinctive culinary delicacies. Freshen up after your tour and later have a once-in-a-lifetime evening with a Geisha or Maiko at an exclusive restaurant.

Staying at

Day 8 Kyoto to UK

Osaka

Today you will transfer from Kyoto to Osaka’s Kansai International airport for your flight home. Should you wish to extend your Japanese adventure, speak to our Travel Specialists about exploring more of this fascinating country, or perhaps visiting another amazing destination on a twin-centre holiday.