Start the day with a visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Himeji Castle – an imposing hilltop structure with a graceful white exterior, dating back to the feudal age. With its strategic position and sprawling grounds, Himeji is one of only a dozen such feudal castles still standing. Wander the grounds and discover the elegance that earned Himeji the title of ‘White Heron Castle’. Continue to Hiroshima and check-in at your hotel, then spend the rest of your evening freely.
Wake for a day of reflection and make your way to the Atomic Bomb Dome. The stripped frame stands resolute as a reminder of the horrific bombing of 1945. Take your time walking the tranquil avenues of Peace Memorial Park, considering the numerous monuments highlighting the impacts of the nuclear bomb, both direct and indirect. From here, travel to the sacred island of Miyajima, where the iconic Itsukushima Shrine is marked by an enormous, floating torii gate. Admire the beautiful natural landscape – and keep your eyes peeled for the hungry deer that wander through the town.
Return to Hiroshima and sample the city’s famous fresh oysters, known for their rich umami flavour. In the evening, indulge in a mouth-watering dinner and try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki – a savoury Japanese pancake of your own design.
Spend your evening in contemplation of the day and the region’s vast cultural history.
Today, travel to the port city of Takamatsu on Shikoku Island. Amidst tranquil koi ponds and regal seaside castles, Takamatsu’s thriving culinary scene simmers away. Freshly caught seafood and local produce rest on steaming beds of rice, and oiri – a traditional bridal sweet made with mochi – offers a taste of Kagawa tradition. Get hands-on with the region’s most famous dish as you study the art of udon noodle-making. Follow a master of the craft as you try your hand rolling, kneading and chopping these satisfyingly chewy wheat flour noodles, then taste the fruits of your labour with a one-of-a-kind homemade udon lunch.
Now that you’re suitably sated, you can take your time exploring the magnificent Ritsurin Garden. This feudal masterpiece of the early Edo Period is regarded as one of Japan’s most beautifully manicured gardens, demonstrating the country’s landscaping heritage with incredible precision. In the evening, head to Kobe and step into the vibrant Kobe Harborland to indulge in an appetising seafood buffet at the Fisherman’s Market. Sample the very best oysters, crab and local fish and sink into the lively atmosphere of the waterfront.
Jump into your day with a visit to the leafy district of Kitano-cho at the edge of the Rokko mountains. Stroll the charming streets to admire the Western-style mansions of former merchants and diplomats, constructed in the 19th and early-20th centuries. Prepare for a spectacular lunch at Steakland Kobekan, where you can savour the exceptional marbling and unparalleled tenderness of the renowned Kobe beef. Creamy, smooth and flavoursome, this is a dining experience to be remembered.
Later, pay a visit to the historic Hakutsuru Sake Brewery. Operating for nearly three centuries, Hakutsuru is one of Japan’s oldest producers of sake and among the most prestigious in the world. Uncover the fascinating fermentation process and cultural heritage of sake-making at the Brewery Museum, then put your senses to the test with an invigorating sake tasting session. This evening, return to Osaka to spend your time freely exploring Shinsaibashi. Grab some delicious Takoyaki (octopus-filled batter balls) for a typical Osakan snack, then wander the covered shopping street in search of the perfect souvenir.
Depart from Osaka this morning and journey to nearby Kyoto. Steeped in tradition and famed for its uniquely composed beauty, Kyoto is a city overflowing with culture.
Stop first along the picturesque Uji River and visit Takumi-no Yakata. Learn from the experts as you partake in an Uji green tea tasting experience. Make the most of the serenity as you appreciate the grounding depth and creamy smoothness of Japan’s finest green tea. Then, enjoy a traditional Japanese bento or teishoku lunch – a set meal comprising a harmonious array of moreish delicacies, meticulously placed in a decorative box.
Continue to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Byodoin to see the breathtaking Phoenix Hall, depicted on the ten yen coin. This Buddhist temple was originally constructed over a thousand years ago as a countryside retreat for politician Fujiwara no Michinaga.
Conclude your day’s adventure with a trip to Sanjusangendo temple, officially named Rengeo-in. Founded in the 12th century, this 120-metre-long hall houses an awe-inspiring collection of 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
Today starts with a trip to the one-and-only Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Pavilion thanks to the gold leaf that coats the top two floors. Watch its dazzling reflection dance across the pond as you learn about the tumultuous history and spiritual importance of this spectacular work of design. Next, visit Arashiyama to cross picturesque Togetsu Bridge, then walk through the swaying stalks of the Bamboo Grove, listening to the gentle clacking as you crane your neck toward the canopy.
Revel in a truly unforgettable dining experience as you partake in kaiseki ryori – a centuries-old, traditional multi-course meal, meticulously prepared using seasonal ingredients. Countless beautiful dishes are carefully ordered in a glorious arrangement of ‘shokuzen-shu’ (local alcoholic aperitif), ‘yakimono’ (grilled fish or meat), ‘tsukemono’ (pickled vegetables) and innumerable other fragrant delights. Savour each bite as you turn your attention to a mesmerising geisha performance.
Inspired by the graceful tradition of the geisha, step out to explore the charming Gion district. Stroll between the historic machiya houses of Hanamikoji Street and see geisha walking the lantern-lit alleys of this idyllic area.
Complete your day with a visit to the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine. Climb the winding steps through thousands of bright red torii gates, carving a skeletal tunnel through the forest. Pause at the top and feel the serenity of this utterly unique Shinto shrine, then make your peaceful descent.
Say farewell to Kyoto and transfer to Nagoya, a city forever in motion. One of Japan’s most important ports and transport hubs, Nagoya’s foodie culture has emerged around the busy thoroughfares that put this city on the culinary map. See what all the fuss is about with a hearty lunch of hitsumabushi (Nagoya-style grilled eel), the city’s most famous dish. Continue to the Noritake Museum, dedicated to the company’s historic ceramic production, and discover the delicate craftsmanship required by the ceramicists of this renowned producer.
Finish your day with a glorious dinner of Nagoya-style tebasaki (Japanese chicken wings) and relish the superbly spiced sweet-and-savoury sauce.
Wake rested and ready to set off for breathtaking Mount Fuji. Start the day at picture-perfect Oishi Park – a vibrant lakeside garden with exquisite views of the mountain. Explore the traditional village of Oshino Hakkai, known for its immaculate spring water and thatched-roof houses, and should you wish, find time to step into one of the local eateries for a hearty lunch of traditional Japanese specialties, from fresh sushi to comforting soba noodles.
If the day is clear, journey up to the Fuji-Subaru Line Fifth Station of Mount Fuji for a spectacular elevated view at 2,300 metres. Later, check-in at your onsen accommodation. For thousands of years, the people of Japan have visited onsen to bathe in the therapeutic hot springs. Join this soothing tradition when you opt for a dip at the hotel’s rooftop observatory with stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Rise to the painterly sight of Mount Fuji outside your window. Admire the grandeur, then board your private coach bound for Tokyo and a dramatic change of pace.
One of the world’s greatest metropolises, Tokyo is brimming with life and culture, both historical and contemporary. Your day begins as you ascend to Tokyo Tower’s observation deck for panoramic views of the sprawling city. Return to earth and brave the thrumming crowds scrambling through Shibuya Crossing. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine network of streets and browse the unfathomable number of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.
Continue to Tsukiji Outer Market – a bustling hub selling fresh seafood and other local delicacies – and soak up the atmosphere as you grab market-fresh sushi. Finish your whirlwind city tour in the historic Asakusa district, window-shopping along Nakamise Shopping Street on your way to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji. In the evening, indulge in a filling farewell dinner of chanko nabe or ‘sumo stew’. Named for its popularity among wrestlers, this aromatic hot pot is warmly seasoned and brimming with flavour. Sip the rich and complex broth as you reminisce with your fellow travellers.
After a whirlwind of serene landscapes and vibrant flavours, it’s time to savour one last breakfast before you transfer to either Haneda International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT). Here, your Japanese journey concludes, but you’ll be leaving with a host of memories and the lingering taste of Japan’s finest food.