The Heart of Japan

Upon arrival, your driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation, where you'll meet your local assistant. Greater Tokyo is the world's largest metropolitan area. Once a small fishing village known as Edo, it became Japan's capital in 1868. Today, the city seamlessly blends traditional neighborhoods with gleaming skyscrapers and an exceptionally efficient public transportation system. Airport-to-accommodation transfer: approx. 30 min - 1 hour (depending on the airport). Overnight in Tokyo (breakfast included).

Begin your day in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's most vibrant districts, home to soaring skyscrapers, bustling department stores, and lively entertainment. Continue to the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, nestled within a tranquil forest in the heart of the city. Next, explore Harajuku, the center of Japan's youth culture and street fashion. Stroll along colorful Takeshita Street before browsing the stylish boutiques of Omotesando, often compared to Paris's Champs-Élysées. End the day in Shibuya and experience the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, one of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks. Overnight in Tokyo (breakfast included).

Located in Tokyo's historic sumo district of Ryogoku, the Edo-Tokyo Museum brings the city's fascinating past to life through detailed scale models, interactive exhibits, and immersive displays. Continue your exploration at the lively Ameyoko Market, one of Tokyo's most popular shopping streets for locals and visitors alike. Just a short distance away, discover Asakusa, one of Tokyo's most traditional neighborhoods and home to the city's oldest and most iconic temple, Sensō-ji. End the day at Tokyo Skytree, Japan's tallest tower, and take in breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the city at sunset. Overnight in Tokyo (breakfast included).

Discover the natural beauty of Hakone, one of Japan's most scenic mountain retreats. Visit the picturesque Hakone Shrine before cruising across Lake Ashi, where, on a clear day, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Continue by ropeway to the volcanic valley of Owakudani and its GeoMuseum, where you can learn about the area's fascinating geothermal activity. Later, unwind at your traditional ryokan, where you'll experience the timeless hospitality of Japan. Soak in a soothing onsen (natural hot spring), savor an elegant seasonal kaiseki dinner, and spend the night on a comfortable futon laid over tatami mats. Guide and private car. Overnight in Hakone (half board).

Japan's third-largest city, Osaka is renowned for its incredible food scene, earning it the nickname "Japan's Kitchen." Known for its friendly locals and easygoing spirit, it offers a lively contrast to Tokyo. Visit Osaka Castle, whose museum brings Japan's feudal history to life. Then, head to Umeda, a bustling district known for its department stores, stylish boutiques, and the iconic Umeda Sky Building with panoramic views of the city. As evening falls, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori and Shinsekai, where dazzling neon lights and famous street food capture the true spirit of Osaka. Train ride: 2h30. Overnight in Osaka (breakfast included).

While Hiroshima is deeply marked by the events of its past, today it is a vibrant, forward-looking city of over one million people. Visitors are moved by the Peace Memorial Park, the Peace Museum, and the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)—powerful reminders of history and resilience. From there, head to Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Bay, famous for one of Japan’s most beautiful views. The contrast between the red Itsukushima Shrine and the sea creates the illusion of a floating torii at high tide. Explore the island’s quiet streets, or take the cable car up Mount Misen for sweeping panoramic views. Speedboat ride: 45 min. Overnight in Miyajima (half board included).

Kyoto was founded in 794 and was the imperial capital for more than 1,000 years. The city has 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 1,600 Buddhist temples, and 400 Shinto shrines. Start your journey with the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, overlooking the city, or the Higashiyama district and its shopping streets. Further down, the Yasaka Grand Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto sea deity Susanoo, marks the boundary with the Gion district, known for its traditional atmosphere and geishas. In the evening, head to the Pontocho alley along the Kamo River to enjoy traditional restaurants. Speedboat and train ride: 2.5 hours. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

Explore Kyoto’s must-sees, such as the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji in Japanese. A few steps away is the Ryoan-ji Temple, a masterpiece of Zen culture that is famous for its garden. Then, head to the Silver Pavilion, or Ginkaku-ji in Japanese, before going for a walk along the Philosopher's Path, a stone path lined with cherry trees. Next, reach the Nanzen-ji Temple, which is tucked away in lush greenery at the base of the Higashiyama mountains. It is one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples and the seat of the Rinzai school of Buddhism. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

Located just 30 miles south of Kyoto, Nara offers the perfect escape for a peaceful day steeped in history. As one of Japan's first capitals, it is home to remarkable cultural treasures, many of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, visit the majestic Tōdai-ji Temple, nestled in Nara Park, where hundreds of deer roam freely among visitors. Then, head to the peaceful Isuien Garden before visiting the Kasuga-taisha Shrine, renowned for its thousands of lanterns. On the way back to Kyoto, stop at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its seemingly endless tunnels of vermilion torii gates climbing the mountainside. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

Tokugawa Ieyasu, Japan’s first shogun to rule during the Edo period, ordered the construction of Nijō Castle as a fortified residence for his heirs during visits to Kyoto. Nearly three centuries later, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun of his line, would return political power to the Emperor in this very place, marking the end of the shogunate. To the west of Kyoto lies Arashiyama’s bamboo forest, where towering stalks create a serene natural corridor. Nearby, the approach to Togetsu-kyo Bridge is lined with food stalls offering local specialties and inviting aromas. Overnight in Kyoto (breakfast included).

As your journey comes to an end, bid farewell to a country where timeless traditions and vibrant modern life exist side by side. Depending on your departure time, enjoy a few final moments to browse the shops for last-minute souvenirs, or simply soak in the atmosphere before heading to the airport for your flight home. As you look back on the memories you've made, perhaps you'll already be dreaming of your next adventure in Japan. Airport Osaka transfer: 1h 20m.