Overview
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From bustling cities to quiet mountain villages, experience the distinct flavour of Japan during this amazing vacation. Of course, you’ll visit Japan’s famous sights, including many of its castles and shrines. In Kyoto, see the Temple of the Gold Pavilion, a Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, and be amazed at its beauty. In Nara, visit Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 752 AD and one of Japan’s most significant temples. You’ll also visit the traditional Gassho-Zukuri-style (joined hands) thatched houses in Shirawaka and Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine, a magnificent Shinto monument set in a man-made garden.
On this Japan tour, you’ll not only see the fascinating structures and shrines, you’ll also have a chance to visit one of Japan’s greatest gardens—Kenroku-en. According to the ancient Chinese book of gardens, gardens should have six different sublime qualities, but it is rare to find all six qualities in a garden. Dating from the 1670s, Kenroku-en does, in fact, combine the six attributes of a perfect garden—spaciousness & seclusion, artifice & antiquity, and water-courses & panoramas. Keep your eyes open for the perfect photos!
But that’s not all…on this tour, you’ll discover Japan’s culture through special experiences arranged by Globus. Partake in a traditional tea ceremony, taste sake, and participate in a Japanese cooking class. You'll also attempt calligraphy, learn about the Yuzen dyeing technique used on kimonos, take part in a gold leaf class, browse a farmers market, and try on a traditional kimono.
All of this and much more await you on this marvellous Japan tour. It’s a holiday of a lifetime!
Highlights
TOKYO Visit the Meiji Shrine, Asakusa Kannon Temple, and Nakamise shopping arcade; calligraphy class; kimono fitting; traditional tea ceremony; welcome dinner
MOUNT FUJI AREA Cable-car ride to view Mount Fuji; visit Chureito Pagoda
MATSUMOTO Visit Matsumoto Castle and Matsumoto City Museum
TAKAYAMA City sightseeing; visit a local market, Takayama Jinya, and a sake brewery for a tasting
SHIRAKAWA Visit Gassho-Zukuri houses
KANAZAWA Visit Kenroku-en Garden; gold leaf class
KANAZAWA–KYOTO Travel by Thunderbird express train
KYOTO Visit Sanjusangendo Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, and the Temple of the Gold Pavilion; Yuzen Handmade Corner; Japanese cooking class; excursion to Nara; farewell dinner
Tour itinerary
Inside visits and special features are shown in UPPERCASE in the tour description, including admission charges where applicable.
Total meals included:
- 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners
ARRIVE IN TOKYO, JAPAN.
Day1
Welcome to Japan’s capital city. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.
TOKYO.
Day2
Meet your Tour Director and traveling companions prior to morning sightseeing in Tokyo. Your tour takes you to the MEIJI SHRINE, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest, followed by a drive to see the Imperial Palace. Next, visit an artist’s studio and learn to write like a local during a CALLIGRAPHY CLASS with a master calligrapher. Here, you’ll also have the opportunity to try on a traditional KIMONO and partake in a TRADITIONAL TEA CEREMONY, a wonderfully choreographed ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea. Last stop is the ASAKUSA KANNON TEMPLE and the NAKAMISE SHOPPING ARCADE. The balance of the afternoon is at leisure. Tonight, join your traveling companions at a welcome dinner hosted by your Tour Director.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
TOKYO. MOUNT FUJI EXCURSION.
Day3
This morning, leave Tokyo and head south along the coast to the beautiful Five Lakes region. Here, take a CABLE-CAR RIDE (weather permitting) for panoramic views of Lake Kawaguchi and spectacular Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain. You will also have a spectacular view of Mount Fuji from CHUREITO PAGODA, part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine, built as a peace memorial in 1963. Return to Tokyo and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
TOKYO–MATSUMOTO–TAKAYAMA.
Day4
Journey to Matsumoto, gateway to the Japanese Alps. Visit famous MATSUMOTO CASTLE, dating back to 1593, and discover the history at the MATSUMOTO CITY MUSEUM. Later, travel through the ruggedly beautiful Japanese Alps to Takayama. Tonight, enjoy a wonderful Japanese-style dinner at your hotel.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
TAKAYAMA.
Day5
Today begins with a visit to the MORNING MARKET, where farmers display locally grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Then, visit TAKAYAMA JINYA, a former government office during the Edo Period from 1692-1868. This well-preserved building is a national historic site and the only remaining building of its kind in Japan. Continue on to the San-Machi Suji historic district—famous for lacquerware shops and sake breweries, and identified by the sugidama, balls made of cedar branches that hang over the entrances. Stop at one of the breweries for a SAKE TASTING. The balance of the day is at leisure, providing you time to explore the narrow streets where merchants buy and sell as they have for 300 years.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
TAKAYAMA–SHIRAKAWA–KANAZAWA.
Day6
This morning, enjoy a drive through the mountainous Shokawa Valley to Shirakawa. This remote region of Japan is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to the unique GASSHO-ZUKURI-style (joined hands) thatched houses that can be found only here. Continue to the scenic town of Kanazawa, situated between the mountains and the Sea of Japan—once the country’s richest region. Your Tour Director leads you on a tour of one of Japan’s greatest gardens, KENROKU-EN, the “Garden of Six Qualities,” dating from the 1670s. Afterward, partake in a GOLD LEAF CLASS, where you learn more about this ancient traditional craft and make your own bento box souvenir.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
KANAZAWA–KYOTO
Day7
This morning, board the THUNDERBIRD EXPRESS TRAIN for your journey to Kyoto. Upon arrival, stop at SANJUSANGENDO TEMPLE, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Flanking the main statue are 1,000 more life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf, with 40 arms said to have the power to save 25 worlds. After lunch, visit the FUSHIMI INARI SHRINE, renowned for the thousands of brightly colored Torii Gates. Afterward, continue on to the Higashiyama District to visit KIYOMIZU TEMPLE, the "Pure Water Temple," with stunning views over Kyoto. Along the way, walk through the busy streets, where shops and restaurants have been catering to pilgrims for centuries. This evening, you have the option to stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan (additional expense).
Traditional Ryokan Stay Immerse yourself in the Japanese culture and hospitality at a ryokan (Japanese inn). Your ryokan, Gion Hatanaka, features traditional touches-tatami mat floors, a thin sleeping mattress on the floor, and the chance to experience a Japanese-style bath-as well as the modern convenience of a private bathroom. Included: transfers to/from ryokan from/to hotel in Kyoto; traditional Japanese dinner and breakfast.
NOTE: Request at time of booking, as space is limited.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
KYOTO.
Day8
This morning starts with a visit to stunning Kinkakuji, the TEMPLE OF THE GOLD PAVILION. Next, visit YUZEN HANDMADE CORNER to learn about the Yuzen dyeing technique used to decorate kimonos by painting dye directly on the cloth. You will be invited to participate in making your own souvenir using this traditional method. For lunch, participate in a special JAPANESE COOKING CLASS. Under the instruction of a local chef, you will learn how to make miso soup, teriyaki chicken, and makizushi, more commonly known as a sushi roll. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore this fascinating city on your own.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
KYOTO. NARA EXCURSION.
Day9
This morning, take an excursion to NARA, the oldest capital of Japan. Here, visit two separate UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, at Nara Park, is TODAIJI TEMPLE, built in 752 AD and one of Japan’s most famous significant temples. Rebuilt after a fire in 1692, the temple is only two-thirds its original size, yet remains the world’s largest wooden building. The Daibutsu (Giant Buddha) inside the main hall is made of copper and bronze, and is the largest in all of Japan, weighing 250 tons and standing some 49 feet tall! Nearby is KASUGA SHRINE, known for its 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns. Return to Kyoto for some leisure time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Japan.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
KYOTO.
Day10
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. Homebound flights from Kansai International Airport in Osaka should not depart prior to 11 am.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
Extend your tour and see even more
On selected tours you can extend your time at the beginning or end of your holiday. To book your holiday with an extension, call us on 0330 0588 237 or speak to your travel agent.
Post tour
+3 days Hiroshima Extension
Total meals included:
- 3 breakfasts
HIROSHIMA.
Day1
Board one of Japan’s famous BULLET TRAINS bound for Hiroshima. Later, join the afternoon excursion to MIYAJIMA ISLAND to visit ITSUKUSHIMA SHRINE, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its floating Torii Gate.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
HIROSHIMA.
Day2
Today’s sightseeing starts at the SHUKKEI-EN GARDEN, where natural landscapes are represented in miniature form. Then, stop at PEACE MEMORIAL PARK to see the PEACE MEMORIAL. Commonly referred to as the Atomic Bomb Dome, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been preserved just as it was on August 6, 1945, immediately after the bombing. You will also visit the MEMORIAL MUSEUM and MEMORIAL HALL, which commemorate the lives lost that day.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
HIROSHIMA.
Day3
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
To book your holiday with an extension, call 0330 0588 237 or speak to your travel agent.
What's included
Tour only
Prefer to book your own flights and transfers? You have the freedom to do that with our Tour Only holiday option.
- Services of a tour director
- Accommodation
- Selected meals
- Porterage
Tour with flights
Let us take care of everything. Our package option includes return flights from your chosen airport, plus overseas transfers to your hotel.
- Flights
- Transfers
- Services of a tour director
- Accommodation
- Selected meals
- Porterage
- All airport taxes
Book with confidence
We are a member of ABTA, and all our flight-inclusive holidays are protected by ATOL. So you can book, relax, and plan your sightseeing.
Hotels
It may occasionally be necessary to use alternative hotels of a similar standard to those shown.
Tokyo - Park Hotel Tokyo
The luxurious Park Hotel Tokyo is the perfect base for exploring the energetic city of Tokyo. Located on the 25th floor, the hotel offers stunning views of the city. One of the largest atriums in Tokyo, spreading through ten floors, rises above the main lobby, decorated with modern artwork and several eateries featuring various International cuisines.
Location
1 7 1 Higashi Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Facilities
- Wifi
- Restaurant on site
- Lifts
- In-room safe
- Coffee maker in-room
- Hairdryer
Takayama - Hida Hotel Plaza
Situated in Takayama, this hotel is close to the centre of Takayama and features two restaurants and a hot springs for relaxation.
Location
2-60 Hanakoka-Cho, Takayama, Japan
Facilities
- Wifi
- Bar/lounge
- Lifts
- In-room safe
- Hairdryer
- Pool
Takayama - Hida Hotel Plaza
Situated in Takayama, this hotel is close to the centre of Takayama and features two restaurants and a hot springs for relaxation.
Location
2-60 Hanakoka-Cho, Takayama, Japan
Facilities
- Wifi
- Bar/lounge
- Lifts
- In-room safe
- Hairdryer
- Pool
Kanazawa - Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
The Hotel Nikko Kanazawa combines an elegant European atmosphere with the beauty of the four seasons. Travellers will appreciate that the hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of some of the most famous tourist spots in Kanazawa.
Location
2-15-1 Honcho, Kanazawa, Japan
Facilities
- Wifi
- Restaurant on site
- Bar/lounge
- Lifts
- Coffee maker in-room
- Hairdryer
Kanazawa - Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
The Hotel Nikko Kanazawa combines an elegant European atmosphere with the beauty of the four seasons. Travellers will appreciate that the hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of some of the most famous tourist spots in Kanazawa.
Location
2-15-1 Honcho, Kanazawa, Japan
Facilities
- Wifi
- Restaurant on site
- Bar/lounge
- Lifts
- Coffee maker in-room
- Hairdryer
Kyoto - ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto
The ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto looks almost out of place with its modern exterior nestled amongst the sublime beauty and historic grandeur of Japan's old capital. This, however, belies the traditional hospitality and classic atmosphere you will experience during your stay.
Location
Nijojo-Mae, Horikawadori, Kyoto, Japan
Facilities
- Restaurant on site
- Lifts
- In-room safe
- Coffee maker in-room
- Iron/ironing board
- Pool
Kyoto - ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto
The ANA Crowne Plaza Kyoto looks almost out of place with its modern exterior nestled amongst the sublime beauty and historic grandeur of Japan's old capital. This, however, belies the traditional hospitality and classic atmosphere you will experience during your stay.
Location
Nijojo-Mae, Horikawadori, Kyoto, Japan
Facilities
- Restaurant on site
- Lifts
- In-room safe
- Coffee maker in-room
- Iron/ironing board
- Pool
Tokyo - Park Hotel Tokyo
The luxurious Park Hotel Tokyo is the perfect base for exploring the energetic city of Tokyo. Located on the 25th floor, the hotel offers stunning views of the city. One of the largest atriums in Tokyo, spreading through ten floors, rises above the main lobby, decorated with modern artwork and several eateries featuring various International cuisines.
Location
1 7 1 Higashi Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Facilities
- Wifi
- Restaurant on site
- Lifts
- In-room safe
- Coffee maker in-room
- Hairdryer
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