Japan, From Tokyo to Osaka

Japan of a thousand and one contrasts with chopstick-making workshop 3^*

Arrival in Tokyo, followed by a transfer from the airport to the hotel.

Meals at leisure so you can explore the city at your own pace. Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast at the hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to discover Tokyo at your own pace. You can explore the lively districts of Shibuya and Harajuku, renowned for their fashion trends and unique atmosphere. Be sure to stop for a photo by the statue of Hachiko, the famous dog, and take in the eccentric styles along Takeshita Street. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Palace for an insight into Japanese history, then round off the day with a relaxing stroll through Ueno Park, a true green oasis in the heart of the city.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine in your own time.

Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will have the whole day to explore Tokyo at your own pace.

Among the suggested visits, you might start with the Imperial Palace, a historic site where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and admire the picturesque moats. If you prefer a more traditional atmosphere, head to the Asakusa district to visit Senso-ji Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. There, you can wander through the narrow streets and sample local street food specialities.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the city’s cuisine as you wish.

Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast at the hotel, set off independently by bus to the city of Matsumoto, followed by a bus transfer to Hirayu Onsen. Lunch is at leisure, giving you time to discover the local specialities at your own pace. In the evening, you will spend the night in a traditional Japanese inn in Hirayu Onsen, with a typical dinner served in the ryokan.

Among the suggested visits, you can start with a stop in Matsumoto, in the heart of the Japanese Alps. You can explore its famous castle, nicknamed “the crow” because of its black colour, and enjoy the magnificent views of the red bridge and the surrounding lake. A visit to the local art museum will allow you to discover works by the iconic artist Yayoi Kusama. For a unique culinary experience, try a miso-based dish and learn its secrets at the Miso Ishii brewery.

In Hirayu Onsen, nestled in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic stay in one of the village’s many ryokan. After a delicious traditional dinner, unwind in the establishment’s hot springs (onsen), which offer perfect relaxation both indoors and in the open air.

After breakfast at the ryokan, set off independently by bus to the town of Takayama, located in the heart of the Japanese Alps.

Among the suggested visits, you might start by exploring Takayama’s old merchant districts, where the atmosphere of bygone Japan is perfectly preserved. A visit to the Hida no Sato village, with its traditional thatched-roof houses, allows you to immerse yourself even further in this historic ambience. You can also discover one of the town’s two retro museums, which offer an immersive journey into the past. For food lovers, Takayama is the ideal place to sample the famous Hida beef as well as the local sake. Finally, do not miss the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan museum, where you can admire the impressive floats used during the town’s renowned seasonal festivals.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you time to enjoy the local cuisine at your own pace. Overnight in Takayama.

After breakfast at the hotel, set off independently by bus to Shirakawago, a village listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will discover houses over 250 years old, seemingly suspended in time. You can explore the unique thatched-roof architecture, which reflects the daily life of the inhabitants in days gone by. Do not miss a visit to the silk museum and the former residence of the village monks. For a breathtaking view, head up to the observation point and enjoy a stunning panorama: whether in spring, summer, autumn or winter, each season has its own special charm.

Then continue by bus to Kanazawa, where you will have the rest of the day free to explore at your own pace.

Among the suggested visits, you can immerse yourself in the feudal era by exploring the traditional Higashi Chaya district. This historic quarter, with its Edo-period buildings, once housed teahouses frequented by geishas. Its timeless atmosphere invites you to discover Japanese craftsmanship, especially the famous teapots and lacquerware.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the chance to sample local specialities. Overnight in Kanazawa.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will have the day free to explore Kanazawa at your own pace.

For sightseeing ideas, you might start by treating yourself to a delicious local speciality at Omicho fish market, famous for its fresh produce, or indulge in a dessert topped with gold leaf. Then step back in time in the Nagamachi district, a real maze of narrow lanes lined with former samurai residences. Another unmissable stop is Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, where you can stroll around the lake and admire the rich variety of plants, whose beauty changes with the seasons. Finally, be sure to visit Kanazawa Castle, an emblematic site of the city’s feudal history.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the chance to sample the local cuisine as you wish. Overnight in Kanazawa.

After breakfast at the hotel, take the train to Kyoto with the JR West Pass.

Among the suggested visits, Kyoto, the former imperial capital, is full of historical treasures to discover. You could start by exploring some of the city’s key spiritual sites, such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, renowned for its wooden terrace with breathtaking views over the city. Do not miss the dazzling Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Finally, round off the day with a visit to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of red gates winding their way up the mountainside, offering a truly unique experience.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the opportunity to sample local specialities whenever it suits you. Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast at the hotel, head off to an exclusive Japanese chopstick-making workshop.

Your Chopstick-Making Experience in Kyoto: Discover Japanese craftsmanship in the heart of the traditional Gion district during an immersive workshop dedicated to creating your own chopsticks. Guided by an English-speaking instructor, shape, smooth and polish your pair of chopsticks made from natural Japanese wood, while learning about the history, symbolism and customs associated with this iconic object of everyday Japanese life. You can then have the chopsticks engraved and leave with a unique souvenir of Kyoto.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

Among the suggested visits, you might start by exploring the majestic Yasaka Pagoda, located in the heart of a maze of streets that are perfect for discovering Japanese crafts. This particularly charming pedestrian area immerses you in the atmosphere of old Japan, and the mood becomes even more magical in the evening when it is lit by lanterns. Then make your way to the picturesque Gion district, famous for its cobbled lanes and teahouses, where you may catch sight of geishas moving with grace. For a more immersive experience, attend a traditional dance performance by geishas or take part in a tea ceremony to learn more about Japanese customs and traditions. Finally, round off the day by relaxing by the river, an ideal spot to enjoy Kyoto’s tranquillity.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the opportunity to sample local cuisine whenever you wish. Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will have the day free to explore Kyoto at your own pace. You will then take a local train independently to visit the city of Nara (payable locally).

Among the suggested visits, you might start by discovering Nara, the former capital of Japan, which is full of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Nara is also famous for its deer, which come down from the mountain during the day and mingle with visitors. Begin with a stroll through the deer park, where you can feed them rice crackers, which they will no doubt enjoy. Then pass through the giant gate of Todai-ji Temple and admire its impressive statues, as well as the majestic Buddhist figure housed inside. For a breathtaking view over the city, head to the terrace of Nigatsu-dō Temple. Finally, on the way to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, let yourself be charmed by the traditional stone lanterns and the moss-covered trees, which create a mystical and soothing atmosphere.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you time to sample local specialities. Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast at the hotel, take the train independently to Hiroshima with the JR West Pass, stopping off in Himeji on the way.

Among the suggested visits, Hiroshima, a city marked by the atomic bomb of the Second World War, combines modernity with powerful reminders of its past. You might start with the Genbaku Dome, the remains of the former exhibition hall, which immerses you in a truly unique atmosphere. Continue with the Peace Memorial Museum, where the testimonies and exhibits recall the city’s tragic history. After such an intense experience, change the mood by enjoying an okonomiyaki, a local culinary speciality. To round off the day, take in the tranquillity of Shukkei-en Garden and explore Hiroshima Castle, which reflects the city’s more ancient history.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the freedom to discover local specialities at your own pace. Overnight in Hiroshima.

After breakfast at the hotel, take the ferry independently to Miyajima Island using the JR West Pass, then continue by train to the city of Okayama.

For sightseeing suggestions, you can start with Miyajima Island, a truly relaxing getaway. Take a photo in front of the famous floating torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is also known for its deer, which roam around freely. Enjoy the breathtaking views from Mount Misen and visit Daishō-in Temple, where Buddhist statues add to the peaceful atmosphere.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you time to sample local specialities at your own pace. Overnight in Okayama.

After breakfast at the hotel, take a boat to the island of Naoshima (payable locally). Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the opportunity to sample local specialities whenever it suits you. Overnight in Okayama.

Among the suggested excursions, the island of Naoshima offers a truly unique artistic experience. A real gem of contemporary art, the island is dotted with modern works to discover, whether by bike or on foot. Be sure to take a photo of the famous polka‑dot pumpkin, the iconic work by artist Yayoi Kusama. Let yourself be charmed by the originality of the installations and exhibitions that are scattered across this eccentric island.

After breakfast at the hotel, take the train independently to the city of Osaka using the JR West Pass. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine at your own pace. Overnight in Osaka.

For sightseeing, you might start by visiting Okayama’s Black Castle, renowned for its impressive architecture and the beautiful Koraku-en gardens. You can also soak up the spiritual atmosphere at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine, a peaceful and historic site. Finally, make sure you sample the region’s famous local peaches, celebrated for their sweetness and exceptional flavour.

After breakfast at the hotel, the day is free to explore Osaka at your own pace.

For sightseeing suggestions, you could start with Osaka Castle, with its impressive ramparts and expansive parkland. Then stroll through one of the many covered shopping streets, ideal for soaking up the local atmosphere. In the evening, head to the Dotonbori riverside, famous for its giant screens and 3D wall decorations featuring octopus and crab motifs. This vibrant district is the heart of Osaka’s nightlife. To round off the day, continue further south to admire Tsutenkaku Tower, where the retro feel of the illuminated alleyways and the restaurants with their extravagant façades will transport you back in time.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you the freedom to discover the city as you wish. Overnight in Osaka.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer by limousine bus or train to Osaka Airport (KIX) for the return flight.

Note: An additional charge will apply for transfers to Itami Airport (ITM) or Kobe Airport (UKB).

ACCOMMODATION

For operational reasons, hotels may be substituted with accommodations of an equivalent category.

The order of the itinerary and scheduled activities may be modified due to local operational constraints.

Any specific request regarding bedding type (double bed or twin beds) is subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.

Please note: In Japan, hotel rooms are often relatively small, and beds may be smaller than international standards.

Ryokan accommodation: Access to the communal onsen (Japanese hot spring baths) is generally prohibited for guests with tattoos.

City tax is not included and must be paid locally. Current indicative amount: 3-star hotel: approximately €2 per room per night.

Check-in is generally available in the mid-afternoon (3:00–4:00 p.m.).

Check-out is generally required in the morning (10:00 a.m.).

The accommodations included in this tour are not suitable for guests with reduced mobility or for infants (0–1.99 years old).

MEALS

Breakfast package: If, due to airline schedules, the first or last day of your trip is shortened by a late arrival or an early departure, no refund will be provided for missed meals.

Depending on the schedules of excursions or local transportation (train, bus, transfers, ferry, etc.), any meals that cannot be taken at the hotel will be at the travelers' own expense.

TRANSPORTS

SHARED AIRPORT–HOTEL SHUTTLE TRANSFER

The shared shuttle provides direct transportation between the airport and your hotel, and vice versa. The shuttle may make several stops along the way.

BUS TRANSPORTATION

In Japan, buses are an efficient and comfortable way to explore the country's more remote and scenic regions. The extensive network allows travelers to discover spectacular destinations such as the Japanese Alps and traditional villages.

RAIL TRANSPORTATION

In Japan, trains are the most convenient way to travel. Both major cities and rural towns are well connected by the country's extensive and highly efficient rail network. Travelers also have the opportunity to ride the famous Shinkansen, Japan's high-speed bullet train, which reaches speeds of up to 320 km/h (199 mph).

JR West All Area Pass

Travel with greater flexibility using your JR West All Area Pass and explore at your own pace.

Enjoy unlimited travel on eligible Shinkansen services, JR limited express trains, regional trains, and JR buses included in your pass, with no advance reservations required. Travel freely between Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kobe, and the surrounding areas.

The pass also includes access to the ferry departing from Miyajimaguchi Port (near Hiroshima) to Miyajima Island.

The pass is valid for 7 consecutive days from the date of activation.

AIRPORT TRANSFER BY LIMOUSINE BUS

The limousine bus connects the airport with the bus stop closest to your hotel, and vice versa. The service makes several stops along the route.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Please note that some of your travel documents (vouchers) may be sent by postal mail to your home address. We recommend checking your mailbox carefully before your departure.