Days 1-2

FLY TO OSAKA

Fly overnight to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture
Day 3

HIMEJI CASTLE

Meet the group in the hotel lobby and together begin your first day of exploring Japan! Travel to Himeji to visit the city’s magnificent feudal era castle before strolling through the beauty of Koko-en, a classical Japanese garden. After lunch in a local restaurant, return to Osaka and spend some time at leisure. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travellers. (B,L,D)
Day 4

EXPLORE KOYA-SAN

This morning, head for the holy mountain of Koya-san, home to a cluster of over a hundred monasteries nestled in a valley enclosed by peaks. Wander around Okunion, a vast cemetery of 200,000 stupas, and enjoy the tranquility of Kongobuji Temple. Continue to the charming city of Nara, Japan’s first capital, and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (B)
Day 5

FROM NARA TO KYOTO

Together, stroll through Nara Park to Todaiji Temple, seeing the resident sika deer en-route, before exploring Isui-en Garden. Travel by road to Kyoto. An enchanting city, Kyoto’s thousand-year stint as Japan’s capital has left behind an impressive legacy. Sightseeing today includes a visit to Kinkakuji Temple, also known as 'Golden Pavilion', and Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's most famous zen garden. (B,L)
Day 6

TRADITIONAL JAPAN

An exciting day awaits the group as you start the day with some traditional Japanese activities. At the 17th Century Kodaiji Temple, experience the age-old rituals of a traditional tea ceremony, before a session of zen meditation. Return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (B)
Day 7

KYOTO TO HAKONE

Travel on the super-fast bullet train to the Hakone area and board a coach to explore the area. Take a boat cruise on spectacular Lake Ashi before soaring high on the Komagatake Ropeway for gorgeous Fuji views. There is free time in Hakone before a dinner with the group in the evening. (B,D)
Day 8

ICONIC MOUNT FUJI

Travel to Mt Fuji and ascend by road to the 5th Station (weather permitting) for spectacular views of the surrounding landscape below. Proceed to Tokyo, Japan’s dazzling capital city. (B)
Day 9

EXPLORE TOKYO

Tokyo is the ultimate 24-hour city, but look behind its frantic, high-tech frontage and you will find plenty of tranquil backstreets and old temples to explore. Visit the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree, the world’s tallest tower, before seeking out the tranquillity of Sensoji Temple. Enjoy free time for lunch, then stroll through beautiful Hamarikyu Gardens. (B)
Day 10

FREE TIME IN TOKYO

Today is a day at leisure for you to spend as you wish; your guide will be on hand to give options and ideas. Tonight, get together for your final meal as a group where you can share your highlights of Japan. (B,D)
Day 11

FLY TOKYO TO IRELAND

Fly to Ireland, arriving home the same or following day. (B)

Our tours feature hand-picked properties selected for their comfort, modern amenities and convenient location for sightseeing. We occasionally include a stay in a guesthouse or lodge where we feel the character of the property will enhance your tour, or to allow access to a more unique and memorable location. Here is a taster of the type of hotels you will be staying in on your tour.

Nights 2

Hotel Monterey Osaka

3-3-45 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0001 Osaka Prefecture
Situated in central Osaka, the Hotel Monterey Osaka is directly connected to Namba train station and just a 10-minute walk from Dotonbori Shopping Street. The hotel features 4 dining options with panoramic city views. Guest rooms feature British-Style interiors and modern practical amenities.
- Wi-Fi
- Restaurant
- Non-smoking
Night 1

Piazza Hotel Nara

The 4-star Piazza Hotel Nara is located within walking distance of many of Nara's tourist attractions, including the national treasure Nara Park. All rooms are air conditioned and include a flat screen TV, ensuite bathroom and free WiFi.
Nights 2

Rihga Gran Kyoto

1 Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Minami-ku, Kyoto 601-8003 Kyoto Prefecture
Located near the hub of transportation Kyoto station and many of Kyoto's top attractions, the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto is in a great location for exploring this beautiful city. It's contemporary guest rooms are complete with Japanese touches and ensuite bathrooms. The hotel features many facilities, including six restaurants, a luxurious bar, a heated indoor pool, and a fitness gym.
- Wi-Fi
- Restaurant
- Non-smoking
- Bar
Night 1

Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa

1320 Gora, 1320 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0408, Japan

This contemporary spa hotel in the mountainous Hakone area features sleek rooms with balconies or terraces, and include minibars, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. There are 2 stylish restaurants in addition to a plush lounge. Other perks include a day spa and a geothermal traditional onsen.
Nights 3

Sunshine City Prince Hotel

3-1-5 Higashi Ikebukuro, Toshima 170-8440 Tokyo Prefecture
The Sunshine Prince is located in Sunshine City, a shopping and entertainment hub of Tokyo and close to Ikebukuro Station, providing convenient transport links to the rest of the city. The hotel's en-suite rooms are simple, comfortable and traditionally furnished with a television, electric kettle, a mini fridge and a safety deposit box. Facilities in the hotel include onsite restaurants serving Japanese, Cantonese and Western cuisines, a café and bar and a 24 hour convenience store.
- Wi-Fi
- Restaurant
- Non-smoking

The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are bursting into life and autumn (September to November) when the scenery is ablaze with colour.