14 Days - Classic Japan

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo, meet your guide at the airport before transferring by private vehicle to your hotel. The journey from Haneda takes around fifty minutes or about one hour twenty from Narita, offering a first look at Japan’s vast and orderly capital. After settling in, begin exploring the city where ancient customs and cutting-edge design coexist at every turn.

Start with Meiji Jingu, a grand Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Set within an expansive forest of over one hundred thousand trees, the shrine offers a calm introduction to Japanese spirituality. Walk through the large torii gate, observe visitors making offerings, and note the ritual of cleansing hands at the entrance basin.

From there, continue to Harajuku and Omotesando, two neighbouring areas that showcase the creativity of modern Tokyo. In Harajuku, explore streets filled with fashion boutiques and pop culture shops, while Omotesando reveals a more refined side with designer stores and striking contemporary architecture along its tree-lined avenue.

Head next to Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most recognisable districts. Watch the famous scramble crossing from above or join the organised chaos of pedestrians weaving through the intersection. The area’s mix of restaurants, music bars and department stores captures the restless energy that defines Tokyo’s modern identity.

As evening approaches, make your way to Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho, a compact network of lantern-lit alleys lined with yakitori stalls and tiny bars. The aroma of charcoal cooking fills the air as office workers and locals gather after work. Enjoy a casual meal or drink before returning to your hotel to rest for the journey ahead.

After breakfast, meet your guide and travel by public train to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most atmospheric districts and a living link to the city’s Edo past. The area grew around the temple of Senso-ji, which for centuries attracted pilgrims, entertainers and merchants who shaped Tokyo’s popular culture. The short train ride reveals a cross-section of city life, from quiet residential suburbs to streets lined with small workshops and corner cafés.

Pass through the towering red Kaminarimon Gate, its enormous lantern painted with characters meaning “thunder gate.” From here, stroll along Nakamise Shopping Street, one of Japan’s oldest market lanes. Stalls sell everything from hand-painted fans and folding umbrellas to snacks like ningyo-yaki, small sponge cakes shaped as dolls. Many shopkeepers have traded here for generations, adding warmth and continuity to the bustle.

At the end of the arcade, the wide forecourt of Senso-ji opens into view. The temple was founded in the 7th century and dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. It has been rebuilt repeatedly after fires and air raids, and today stands as a symbol of resilience and devotion. Walk among clouds of incense, watch worshippers toss coins and bow, and listen for the rhythmic clatter of omikuji fortune boxes. The temple’s combination of grandeur and daily ritual captures Tokyo’s ability to merge past and present.

Enjoy lunch nearby in one of Asakusa’s long-running restaurants. Many specialise in tempura or soba noodles prepared using traditional techniques passed down through families. Your guide can recommend a favourite spot tucked along the side streets, where the calm of the Sumida River contrasts with the lively temple quarter. After lunch, travel to Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure and a modern counterpart to the city’s ancient landmarks.

Ride the high-speed elevator to the observation deck, where clear days reveal Tokyo stretching endlessly in every direction and Mount Fuji faintly visible in the distance. At the tower’s base, browse the Solamachi shopping complex, which highlights regional crafts and sweets from across Japan. Return to Shibuya in the evening, where your guide concludes for the day. Spend the night exploring the city independently, perhaps revisiting a favourite district or trying a small izakaya for dinner.

Leave Tokyo this morning aboard a scenic train bound for the Fuji Five Lakes region, a journey of about two and a half hours that passes from city suburbs into open countryside. Rice paddies and tea fields roll past the window, and on clear mornings the distant cone of Mount Fuji becomes visible before arrival at the mountain’s northern foothills. For group travellers, a private coach offers the same route at an easy pace.

Your first stop is Oshino Hakkai, a small village of thatched houses and water mills fed by the underground springs of Mount Fuji. The eight ponds here are famed for their exceptional clarity, the result of melted snow filtered through volcanic rock over decades. Locals still collect water for household use, a reminder of how deeply Fuji’s presence shapes life in this region. Wander between ponds and small shrines, and stop to sample local treats like grilled sweetfish or soft-serve ice cream flavoured with the region’s pure spring water.

Continue by short drive to Lake Kawaguchi, one of the most accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes and a classic viewpoint of the mountain. Board a relaxed sightseeing cruise that crosses the lake’s calm surface, offering a perfect perspective on Fuji’s reflection when conditions are clear. Traditional ryokan and onsen resorts line the lakeshore, making this a favourite retreat for city residents escaping into nature.

Stop nearby for lunch overlooking the lake. The area is known for hearty local dishes such as houtou noodles, thick and chewy wheat noodles served in a miso-based broth with mountain vegetables. Many restaurants are family-run and take pride in their seasonal ingredients. After the meal, continue to Oishi Park on the northern bank for another spectacular view of Fuji framed by flower fields and open sky.

Oishi Park is especially colourful from spring to autumn, when tulips, lavender and autumn grasses paint the landscape. Take a slow walk along the lakeside paths, pause for photographs, or browse the small local shops selling jams, herbal teas and handmade goods. In the late afternoon, return by train (roughly 2.5 hours) or private coach to Tokyo, arriving in the evening with time for dinner at leisure or a short stroll through the city lights before resting for the night.

Depart Tokyo in the morning aboard the Hokuriku Shinkansen, a comfortable two and a half hour journey that passes through mountain tunnels and rural plains before reaching Kanazawa on Japan’s northern coast. This compact city, once the seat of a powerful samurai clan, is known for its fine gardens, historic districts and deep appreciation of craft and cuisine. After arrival at Kanazawa Station, meet your local guide and begin exploring the city’s old quarter.

Start in the Higashi Chaya District, a beautifully preserved neighbourhood where wooden teahouses and latticed facades evoke the elegance of Edo period Japan. The word chaya means tea house, and many of these buildings once hosted geisha performances for wealthy merchants and nobles. Wander along narrow lanes lined with gold leaf shops, art galleries and traditional cafes. Step into one of the restored teahouses to enjoy a cup of matcha served with wagashi sweets, a gentle introduction to Kanazawa’s refined hospitality.

From here, take a short walk to Omicho Market, the lively heart of the city’s food scene for more than three hundred years. The covered lanes are packed with stalls offering freshly caught seafood from the nearby Sea of Japan, as well as colourful displays of fruit, pickles and regional delicacies. Sample oysters, sashimi or a simple rice bowl topped with crab, and chat with vendors who supply many of the city’s top restaurants. The market’s casual dining counters are ideal for a quick lunch surrounded by local energy.

In the afternoon, visit Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa’s most celebrated landmark and one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Designed by the ruling Maeda family over centuries, it embodies the six qualities of a perfect landscape: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, water and scenic views. Wander along stone bridges and beneath sculpted pine trees, watching reflections shimmer on the ponds. Each season brings its own beauty, from spring blossoms to autumn maples and winter snow lanterns.

Find a quiet bench to rest and take in the serenity before leaving the garden. On the way back to your hotel, you may wish to stop for a local treat such as soft serve ice cream covered with a delicate layer of edible gold leaf, a small indulgence that symbolises Kanazawa’s long connection to craftsmanship and luxury. Enjoy an evening at leisure in the city, perhaps dining at a seafood restaurant or exploring the illuminated streets of the old town.

Leave Kanazawa this morning and travel inland toward the mountains, where winding roads pass through forested valleys and small farming hamlets. The journey to Shirakawa-go takes around one hour and twenty minutes, leading into the heart of the Japanese Alps. This region experiences some of the country’s heaviest snowfall and is known for its traditional architecture, which has adapted beautifully to the natural environment.

Arrive in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO listed village renowned for its gassho zukuri farmhouses, whose steep thatched roofs resemble hands pressed in prayer. These tall structures were designed to withstand heavy winter snow and to provide space in the loft for raising silkworms. Walk through the lanes lined with family homes, storehouses and small shrines, many preserved as museums. Step inside one to see the sturdy beams, open hearths and tools that reveal how people once lived in harmony with the seasons.

From the village lookout, the view across the valley is like a scene from another era. The thatched roofs form a pattern among rice fields and trees, framed by mountains that rise steeply on all sides. The gentle sound of the river and the scent of wood smoke create a feeling of calm that captures the essence of rural Japan. Take time to browse local stalls selling handwoven goods, pickles and snacks such as grilled rice cakes or sweet roasted chestnuts.

Continue by road for about one hour and fifteen minutes to Takayama, a small city surrounded by alpine peaks. On arrival, check into a traditional Japanese inn where rooms are furnished with tatami mats, sliding paper screens and low tables. The atmosphere is quiet and contemplative, offering a rare chance to slow down and absorb the pace of mountain life.

Before dinner, unwind in an onsen bath filled with natural mineral water. In the evening, enjoy a kaiseki meal that showcases regional ingredients such as Hida beef, river fish and locally grown vegetables. Each dish is presented with care and attention to detail, reflecting the region’s culinary heritage. Spend the night in your ryokan, drifting to sleep to the sound of the breeze moving through the pines outside.

Begin the morning in Takayama Old Town, where narrow streets lined with wooden merchant houses preserve the spirit of Japan’s Edo period. The air is often scented with cedar and miso from nearby breweries, and the pace feels unhurried. Browse small shops selling lacquerware, local sake and traditional crafts, or stop to sample Hida beef skewers grilled over charcoal. The district’s atmosphere offers a glimpse into everyday life as it might have been centuries ago.

If visiting between December and March, begin instead at the Takayama Morning Market, one of the oldest in Japan. The market lines the riverbank and is filled with stalls selling mountain vegetables, fruit preserves, pickles and handmade goods. Local farmers and artisans still bring their produce here each morning, creating an authentic community gathering that reflects the town’s close connection to the surrounding countryside.

Later in the morning, depart Takayama for Kyoto. Travel by express train to Nagoya and then continue by bullet train, or by private coach for group travellers. The total journey takes around three and a half hours and reveals a shifting landscape, from alpine valleys to the wide plains of central Japan. On arrival, check into your hotel and prepare to explore the cultural heart of the country.

In the afternoon, visit Kiyomizu Temple, one of Kyoto’s most admired landmarks. Built without nails, its vast wooden terrace extends over the hillside and provides sweeping views of the city below. Walk through the temple grounds, drink from the Otowa Waterfall said to bring health and longevity, and observe the steady flow of pilgrims and visitors who come to offer prayers.

As evening falls, stroll through the lantern lit streets of Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. The narrow lanes are lined with wooden machiya townhouses, some still operating as teahouses and restaurants. Listen for the soft footsteps of geiko and maiko as they move between engagements, and enjoy dinner at one of the small eateries tucked behind sliding doors. The atmosphere here captures the refinement and grace that have long defined Kyoto.

Begin the morning with a short train ride to Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. The journey takes about twenty minutes from central Kyoto, leading to a mountainside lined with thousands of bright orange torii gates. Arriving early allows time to walk the lower paths before the crowds, where morning light filters through the gates and the air carries the scent of cedar. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice and prosperity, and fox statues scattered along the paths are said to be messengers of the gods.

Wander through the rows of torii that wind their way up the forested slopes, stopping at small shrines where offerings of rice and sake are left. The rhythmic repetition of the gates and the surrounding quiet make this one of Kyoto’s most recognisable and spiritual experiences. For those who enjoy walking, a longer route reaches viewpoints that look across the city, offering a sense of calm high above the bustle below.

After the visit, continue to a nearby tea house for a traditional tea ceremony and kimono wearing experience. Learn the graceful movements of preparing and serving matcha, a practice rooted in mindfulness and respect. The experience offers an insight into how art, etiquette and hospitality intertwine in Japanese culture. Women may also enjoy traditional hairstyling, while all guests can appreciate the refined aesthetic that defines Kyoto’s artistry and manners.

In the afternoon, make your way to Nishiki Market, often called Kyoto’s kitchen. This narrow covered street stretches for five blocks and contains more than one hundred shops and food stalls. The market has served local residents for centuries and still supplies many of the city’s restaurants. Stroll past displays of fresh tofu, pickles, sweets and tea, sampling small bites such as skewered seafood or yatsuhashi cinnamon pastries.

Take time to explore the side alleys branching from the main arcade, where small cafés and craft stores showcase local ceramics, knives and textiles. The variety of sights and aromas captures Kyoto’s mix of tradition and daily life. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, with the evening free to dine at leisure or simply relax after a full and sensory day in Japan’s cultural capital.

Begin the day with a short drive or local train journey to Arashiyama, a district on the western edge of Kyoto where mountains, temples and rivers meet in one of the city’s most scenic areas. Arrive early at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a world-famous pathway lined with towering stalks that rise high above the trail. The morning light filters softly through the green canopy, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. For a traditional experience, you can take a rickshaw ride through the grove and nearby streets while your guide shares stories about the area’s history and culture.

Just a short walk away is Tenryu-ji, one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded in the fourteenth century, the temple’s garden was designed by the celebrated monk Muso Soseki and is considered one of the oldest examples of Japanese landscape design still in its original form. The central pond reflects the surrounding hills and trees, offering a scene of perfect balance. Stroll slowly along the paths before crossing the nearby Togetsukyo Bridge, a graceful wooden span that stretches across the Katsura River. The bridge has long inspired poets and painters, especially in spring when cherry blossoms frame the view and in autumn when the slopes blaze with colour.

After a short drive north, visit Kinkaku-ji, the famous Golden Pavilion. This dazzling temple is covered in gold leaf that shimmers above its mirror pond, creating a reflection so striking it feels almost unreal. Originally built as a villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was later converted into a Zen temple and today remains one of Japan’s most admired sites. The carefully composed garden surrounding Kinkaku-ji illustrates the deep harmony between architecture and nature that defines Kyoto’s aesthetic tradition.

Take time to wander the pathways that weave through pines and moss-covered stones, pausing to admire small teahouses tucked beside the water. You may wish to stop for a bowl of matcha or soft serve ice cream flavoured with green tea before returning to your hotel. The journey back to central Kyoto takes about thirty minutes, leaving the evening free to rest or explore the city at your own pace.

Begin the morning with an express train journey from Kyoto to Nara, taking around forty-five minutes. As Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara is filled with ancient temples, shrines and treasures that date back over a thousand years. The city’s open spaces and slower pace create a sense of timelessness that contrasts beautifully with Kyoto’s refinement.

Your first visit is Todaiji Temple, one of Japan’s most famous religious sites and a UNESCO World Heritage property. Built in the eighth century, it houses the Great Buddha, a bronze statue over fifteen metres high that represents Vairocana, the cosmic Buddha. Enter through the towering Nandaimon Gate, guarded by two fierce wooden deities, and step inside the Great Buddha Hall, which remains one of the largest wooden structures in the world. The scale of the building and the quiet presence of the statue make this one of Japan’s most moving spiritual experiences.

After exploring the temple grounds, continue along a forested path to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its soft light and rows of bronze and stone lanterns that line the approach. Established in the eighth century as the guardian shrine of the ancient capital, Kasuga Taisha remains an important place of Shinto worship. The vermilion halls, white paper streamers and deer motifs all reflect the harmony between nature and belief that defines Nara’s spiritual identity.

Finish the day in Nara Park, a vast green space where hundreds of friendly deer roam freely. In local legend, they are considered sacred messengers of the gods. Walk among them at a gentle pace, stopping to feed them special deer crackers sold by vendors. From many points in the park, you can see Todaiji Temple framed by trees and low hills, a view that captures the essence of Japan’s early heritage.

Return to Kyoto in the late afternoon by the same express train, arriving in time to relax or explore one of the city’s many dining districts in the evening.

Depart Kyoto in the morning aboard the Shinkansen bound for Hiroshima, a journey of around one hour and forty-five minutes. The train glides through the countryside of western Honshu, passing small towns, rivers and forested hills along the way. On arrival, meet your local guide and begin exploring a city that stands today as a powerful symbol of peace and renewal.

Start with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, located at the centre of what was once the original downtown area before the atomic bombing in 1945. The museum’s exhibits tell the story of that day through personal artefacts, photographs and survivor testimonies. Though sobering, the presentation is deeply moving and serves as a reminder of the importance of peace and resilience.

After touring the museum, take a quiet walk through the surrounding park. Designed as a space for remembrance and reflection, it is dotted with memorials and monuments dedicated to those who lost their lives. Pause at the cenotaph, which holds the names of all known victims, and then continue along the Motoyasu River to view the Atomic Bomb Dome. This preserved structure, once the Industrial Promotion Hall, stands almost exactly as it did after the explosion and has become a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Spend some time sitting by the river or exploring the nearby walkways where locals gather, allowing the day’s impressions to settle. Despite its history, Hiroshima has a gentle and hopeful energy, with leafy boulevards and welcoming residents.

In the evening, experience a lighter side of the city with a hands-on okonomiyaki dinner. Hiroshima’s version of this savoury pancake is layered with noodles, cabbage, meat and sauce, then grilled on a hot plate directly in front of you. Cooking and eating together creates a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere and offers insight into Japan’s regional food culture. Return to your hotel after dinner, reflecting on a day that balances remembrance with the vitality of modern Hiroshima.

Begin the day by travelling from central Hiroshima to the coast, where a short twenty minute ferry ride crosses the calm waters to Miyajima Island. Officially known as Itsukushima, the island has been considered sacred for more than a thousand years. As the ferry approaches, you will see the famous vermilion torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine rising from the sea, appearing to float at high tide. It is one of Japan’s most iconic views and has inspired countless works of art and poetry.

Disembark and make your way to Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site built over the water on wooden stilts. The shrine’s long corridors, bright red pillars and open pavilions were designed to create the impression of floating with the tide. Take time to wander through the complex, listening to the sound of waves lapping beneath the floorboards and admiring the delicate balance between architecture and nature that defines Shinto design.

After visiting the shrine, explore the island’s other highlights, including the elegant five storey pagoda and the path leading to the ropeway that ascends Mount Misen. The summit offers panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and the islands scattered across it. For those seeking a more active experience, a well-marked hiking trail winds through cedar forests and small temples to the top, rewarding walkers with quiet lookouts and distant sea breezes.

Before returning to the ferry, stroll along Miyajima’s lively shopping street where small stalls and cafés sell local delicacies. Try freshly grilled oysters, steamed buns filled with savoury ingredients, or Momiji Manju, a maple leaf shaped sweet filled with red bean paste that originated on the island. Take a few moments to browse the craft shops or simply enjoy the relaxed rhythm of island life before heading back to Hiroshima in the late afternoon.

Depart Hiroshima in the morning aboard the Shinkansen, travelling east toward Osaka. The first leg of the journey takes around one hour to Himeji, where Japan’s most magnificent castle awaits just a short walk from the station. The train passes through the gentle landscapes of western Honshu, with distant mountains and towns rolling by the window.

Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is often called White Heron Castle for its brilliant white plaster walls and graceful design. Unlike most Japanese castles, it has survived centuries of war and natural disasters almost entirely intact. Enter through a series of winding gates and courtyards that once served as defensive barriers, then explore the castle’s interior, where polished wooden corridors and steep staircases lead upward through six levels. From the top floor, enjoy wide views over the city and the Seto Inland Sea beyond.

The surrounding grounds reveal details of everyday life within the castle, including storehouses, wells and small gardens. The blend of strength and elegance seen here represents one of Japan’s finest examples of feudal architecture. Nearby, small cafés and souvenir stalls offer local snacks such as almond butter pastries and sweet soy rice crackers, ideal for a brief break before boarding the next train.

Continue by Shinkansen to Osaka, a journey of about thirty-five minutes. Japan’s third largest city, Osaka is celebrated for its warmth, humour and culinary spirit. On arrival, head to Shinsekai, an old neighbourhood with a nostalgic charm. Built in the early twentieth century, it captures the optimism of that era through colourful signage, lively streets and small eateries serving local favourites. Take a ride up Tsutenkaku Tower, an enduring symbol of Osaka, for a panoramic view that combines modern towers with traditional rooftops.

As evening falls, make your way to Dotonbori, the heart of Osaka’s entertainment and dining scene. Neon lights reflect in the canal while the aroma of sizzling food fills the air. Wander past restaurants serving takoyaki octopus balls, kushikatsu skewers and Osaka style okonomiyaki, all local staples. Stop for dinner at a casual eatery or watch street performers entertaining passers-by under the famous Glico running man sign. It is an energetic and fitting introduction to a city known as Japan’s kitchen.

Begin the morning with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most recognisable landmarks and a powerful symbol of national unity. Approach through the wide park that surrounds the castle, where locals jog, picnic and enjoy the seasonal blossoms. Crossing the moat and passing through the large stone gates, you enter a site that played a central role in Japan’s history. The original castle was built in the sixteenth century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the warlord who unified the country after centuries of conflict.

Inside the castle’s reconstructed tower, exhibits tell the story of the battles, alliances and rebuilds that shaped Osaka’s destiny. Artefacts such as samurai armour, folding screens and maps help bring the past to life. Climb to the top floor for sweeping views of the modern city stretching far in every direction. The contrast between the ancient fortress and the skyline of glass and steel below reflects the resilience and evolution of Osaka through the ages.

After visiting the castle, take a short train ride to Kuromon Market, a bustling covered arcade that has served residents for over a century. The market stretches for several blocks, with more than a hundred stalls displaying seafood, fruit, confectionery and cooked dishes. The sound of sizzling grills and cheerful greetings fills the air. Sample freshly seared scallops, skewers of wagyu beef or sweet seasonal fruit, and enjoy conversations with the friendly vendors. The lively rhythm of Kuromon captures Osaka’s reputation as a city that lives through its food.

In the afternoon, continue to the Shinsaibashi and Namba districts, Osaka’s most dynamic shopping areas. Shinsaibashi’s long covered arcade is filled with boutiques, craft stores and international brands, while nearby side streets reveal cafés, vintage shops and small galleries. The underground walkways connecting Shinsaibashi to Namba create a labyrinth of stores and restaurants that seem to stretch endlessly. It is an ideal place to find last-minute souvenirs, from handmade accessories to Japanese cosmetics and fashion.

As the day draws to a close, take time to enjoy Osaka’s friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. Locals often gather in small izakaya bars or family-run restaurants, sharing stories and laughter over shared plates. For your final evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner of okonomiyaki or kushikatsu, reflecting on the journey that has taken you from Japan’s ancient temples and mountain towns to the vibrant modern life of its culinary capital.

After nearly two weeks of travel through Japan’s cities, mountains and cultural heartlands, enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel. Take a quiet moment to reflect on the experiences and connections made along the way before checking out.

A private car or bus will collect you for your transfer to Kansai International Airport, about one hour from central Osaka. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be time for a short walk near your hotel or a last cup of Japanese coffee before departure.

As the journey comes to an end, you leave with a deeper sense of Japan’s rhythm and beauty - from the peaceful gardens of Kyoto and the wooden villages of Shirakawa-go to the creative energy of modern Osaka. Safe travels!