Japan, From Tokyo to Osaka

Japan's 1001 Contrasts 3^*

Arrival in Tokyo with transfer from the airport to the hotel. Lunch and dinner are free for you to enjoy the city at your own pace. Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast at the hotel, you have the day free to explore Tokyo at your leisure. You can explore the lively districts of Shibuya and Harajuku, renowned for their fashion trends and unique atmosphere. Be sure to pose in front of the statue of Hachiko, the famous dog, and marvel at the eccentric looks of Takeshita Street. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Palace to immerse yourself in Japanese history, before ending the day with a soothing stroll through Ueno Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city.

Lunch and dinner are at leisure, allowing you to savour the local cuisine at your own pace.

Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll have the entire 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 traditional atmosphere, head to the Asakusa district to visit the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. There, you can wander through the alleys and sample local street food specialties. Lunch and dinner are on your own, allowing you to enjoy the city's cuisine as you like. Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart by bus independently for the city of Matsumoto, followed by a bus transfer to Hirayu Onsen. Lunch is at your leisure, allowing you to explore the local specialities at your own pace. In the evening, you will spend the night in a traditional Japanese inn at Hirayu Onsen, with a typical dinner served in your Ryokan.

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

At Hirayu Onsen, nestled in the mountains of the Gifu prefecture, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic experience in one of the village's many Ryokans. After a delicious traditional dinner, relax in the establishment's thermal springs (onsen), offering a perfect relaxation experience, both indoors and outdoors.

After breakfast at the Ryokan, departure by bus independently for the town of Takayama, situated in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Lunch and dinner are on your own, leaving you time to savour the local cuisine at your own pace. Overnight in Takayama.

Suggestions for sightseeing include exploring Takayama's old trading quarters, where the atmosphere of old Japan is perfectly preserved. A visit to the village of Hida no Sato, with its traditional thatched houses, will immerse you even further in this ancient atmosphere. You can also visit one of the town's two retro museums, which will transport you back in time. For food lovers, Takayama is the ideal place to sample the celebrated hida beef and local sake. Finally, don't miss the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan museum, where you can admire the impressive floats used in the town's famous seasonal festivals.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart by coach independently for Shirakawago, a Unesco World Heritage village where you will discover houses over 250 years old, frozen in time. You can explore the unique architecture of the thatched roofs and witness the daily life of the inhabitants in days gone by. Don't miss a visit to the Silk Museum and the village's former monks' residence. For a breathtaking view, head to the viewpoint and enjoy the breathtaking panorama, whether in spring, summer, autumn or winter, each season has its own charm.

Then transfer by bus to Kanazawa, where you have the day to explore at your own pace. Lunch and dinner are at leisure to sample local delicacies. Overnight in Kanazawa.

Suggested sightseeing includes a visit to the traditional Higashi Chaya district, which takes you back to the feudal era. This historic district of Edo-era buildings was once home to teahouses frequented by geishas. Its timeless charm invites you to discover Japanese craftsmanship, especially the famous teapots and lacquerware.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will have the day free to explore Kanazawa at your own pace. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, allowing you to sample the local cuisine as you please. Overnight in Kanazawa.

Suggestions for sightseeing include trying a delicious speciality from the Omicho fish market, famous for its fresh produce, or indulging in a dessert covered in gold leaf. Next, immerse yourself in history by exploring the Nagamachi district, a maze of narrow streets lined with old samurai residences. Another must-see is Kenrokuen, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan, where you can stroll around the lake and admire the diversity of the flora, which changes its beauty with the seasons. Finally, don't miss a visit to Kanazawa Castle, a landmark in the town's feudal history.

After breakfast at the hotel, departure by train for Kyoto with the JR West Pass. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, allowing you to enjoy local specialities as you please. Overnight in Kyoto.

Kyoto, the former imperial capital, is full of historical treasures to discover. You can start by exploring spiritual landmarks such as the Kiyomizu-dera temple, famous for its wooden terrace offering a breathtaking view of the city. And don't miss the dazzling Golden Pavilion, one of the city's most symbolic landmarks. Finally, finish off with a visit to the Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine, famous for its thousands of red doors winding through the mountain, offering a unique experience.

After breakfast at the hotel, the day is free to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, allowing you to sample the local cuisine as you please. Overnight in Kyoto.

Among the suggestions for visits, you can start by exploring the majestic Yasaka pagoda, which lies at the heart of a maze of streets perfect for discovering Japanese crafts. This particularly charming pedestrian precinct will immerse you in the atmosphere of old Japan, and the atmosphere is even more magical in the evening, illuminated by lanterns. Next, head to the picturesque district of Gion, famous for its cobbled streets and teahouses, where you can see geisha gracefully moving about. For a more immersive experience, watch a traditional geisha dance performance or take part in a tea ceremony to learn more about Japanese customs. Finally, end your day by relaxing by the river, a perfect place to relish the tranquillity of Kyoto.

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll have a free day to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, giving you time to sample the local specialities. You will then take a local train independently to visit the city of Nara (extra charge at the site). Overnight in Kyoto.

Among the suggested visits, you can start by discovering Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, which is brimming with UNESCO World Heritage sites. Nara is also famous for its deer, which come down from the mountains during the day and mingle with visitors. Begin with a stroll in the deer park, where you can offer them rice cakes, which they will undoubtedly appreciate. Next, pass through the giant gate of the Todai-ji temple and admire its imposing statues, as well as the majestic Buddhist figure it houses. For a breathtaking view of the city, head to the terrace of the Nigatsu-dō temple. Finally, on your way to the Kasuga Taisha temple, let yourself be enchanted by the traditional stone lanterns and the moss on the trees, creating a mystical and soothing atmosphere.

After breakfast at the hotel, take the JR West Pass train independently to Hiroshima, stopping off at Himeji on the way. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, allowing you to discover local specialities at your own pace. Overnight in Hiroshima.

Hiroshima, a city scarred by the atomic bomb of World War II, combines modernity with poignant reminders of its past. You can start by visiting the Genbaku Dome, a remnant of the former exhibition palace, which offers a unique atmosphere. Continue to the Peace Memorial Museum, where the testimonies and artefacts on display recall the city's tragic history. After such an immersion, change the atmosphere by tasting okonomiyaki, a local culinary speciality. To round off your day, enjoy the tranquillity of the Shukkei-en Garden and explore Hiroshima Castle, which bears witness to the city's earlier history.

After breakfast at the hotel, take the ferry independently to the island of Miyajima with your JR West Pass, then continue by train to the city of Okayama. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, leaving you time to savour the local specialities as you please. Overnight in Okayama.

Suggested sightseeing destinations include the island of Miyajima, a truly relaxing getaway. Take a photo in front of the famous floating torii at Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is also famous for its deer, which roam freely. Enjoy the breathtaking views from Mount Misen and visit the Daishō-in temple, where Buddhist statues add to the peaceful atmosphere.

After breakfast at the hotel, departure by boat for the island of Naoshima (to be paid for locally). Lunch and dinner are at leisure, allowing you to sample local specialities as you please. Overnight in Okayama.

Among the suggestions for visits, the island of Naoshima invites you to enjoy a unique artistic experience. A true jewel of contemporary art, the island is packed 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 of artist Yayoi Kusama. Allow yourself to be seduced by the originality of the installations and exhibitions that pop up all over this eccentric island.

After breakfast at the hotel, departure by train independently for Osaka with your JR West Pass. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, allowing you to sample the local cuisine at your own pace. Overnight in Osaka.

Suggested sightseeing includes exploring Okayama Black Castle, known for its imposing architecture and magnificent Koraku-en gardens. You can also immerse yourself in the spirituality of the Kibitsu-jinja shrine, a peaceful and historic place. Finally, be sure to try the famous local peaches, renowned for their sweetness and distinctive flavour.

After breakfast at the hotel, the day is free to explore Osaka at your own pace. Lunch and dinner are at leisure, allowing you to explore the city as you please. Overnight in Osaka.

Suggested sightseeing includes Osaka Castle, with its imposing walls and vast natural park. Next, stroll along one of the many covered shopping streets, perfect for immersing yourself in the local atmosphere. In the evening, head to the quays of the Dotonbori River, famous for its giant screens and 3D wall decorations depicting octopuses and crabs. This vibrant district is the heart of Osaka's nightlife. Finally, head further south to admire the Tsutenkaku Tower, where the retro atmosphere of the illuminated alleyways and the restaurants with their extravagant facades will transport you back in time.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer by limousine bus or train to KIX airport for your return flight.

Note: Additional charges will apply for transfers to Itami (ITM) or Kobe (UKB) airports.

CUSTOMS FORMALITIES

On arrival, travellers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of their return. A visa is only required for stays of more than 3 months.

Non-Japanese nationals entering Japan are required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographic portrait).

Non-UK nationals or dual nationals are advised to contact the consulate or embassy of the country of destination.

Under-age children must have an individual passport. We strongly recommend that minors who are not accompanied by their legal guardians carry a copy of their Family Register.

CURRENCY

The currency used is the yen (JPY). On 15 October 2024, 1 Euro was equivalent to 162.8 Japanese yen.

TRANSFERS

Please note: transfers not mentioned in the programme on free days are not included and will therefore be charged to the customer.

PLEASE NOTE: Some of your transport tickets (vouchers) may be sent to your postal address. We advise you to check your mail box carefully before you travel.

ACCOMMODATION

Any specific request concerning the type of sleeping accommodation (double bed, separate beds) is subject to availability and may incur a supplement.