10 Days | Japan Golden Route | With Hiroshima

Hiroshima

Today, we begin with the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima. The shrine and its torii gate are unique for being built over water, seemingly floating in the sea during high tide. The shrine complex consists of multiple buildings, including a prayer hall, the main hall, and a noh theatre stage, which are connected by boardwalks and supported by pillars above the sea. Then visit the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Museum, commemorating the victims of the atomic bomb used in WWII. 

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima or similar

Hiroshima Osaka

Bid farewell to Hiroshima this morning as you begin your journey back to Osaka. Following the coastal road along the Seto Inland Sea, you will visit the historic city of Kurashiki, a water city renowned for its breathtakingly well-preserved canal area dating back to the Edo Period, and Kobe considered one of Japan's most attractive cities. 

After we make our way back to Osaka (200km, approx. 3-4hr).

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel it Osaka Shinmachi or similar

Osaka Nara Kyoto Osaka 

Today we will take a day trip to Nara. Once you arrive in Nara, it is a short walk to the main attractions. We will visit Todaiji Temple and its Great Hall as it houses one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. Wander back through Nara Deer Park, where you can see hundreds of deer roaming around. Nara’s 1,200 deer have become the city's symbol as it comes from the Shinto idea that every creature, nature or object is a messenger of God.  While you are here you can feed the deer with crackers and enjoy some of the local foods they have to offer. As well as their cute deer souvenirs and activities related to Nara's history. 

Afterwards, travel to Kyoto, a time capsule of laneways filled with tea houses, izakayas and geisha — if you can spot them vanishing down the back alleys. On arrival, wander across the Togetsu Bridge, the landmark of Western Kyoto’s Arashiyama District for over four hundred years. Then, get lost in the surreal and otherworldly beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Gliding across wooden paths that weave through dense thickets of tall bamboo stalks, find a quiet corner to listen to the rustling, creaking, and sway of trunks that knock together, creating a peaceful sound like almost nothing else.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel it Osaka Shinmachi or similar

Osaka Kyoto Mt. Fuji 

Following breakfast this morning, visit Nijo Castle, where you can revel in the atmosphere of this historical residence of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Later, admire the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen temple and World Heritage site with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold and detailed architecture incorporating the three distinct architectural styles of Shinden, Samurai and Zen.

After lunch, travel onwards to Mt. Fuji on a world-famous Shinkansen bullet train. Watch as flashes of futuristic skyscrapers, shrines and lush fields pass by in its max 320-kilometers-per-hour dash from Kyoto to Tokyo. This time-defying lightning bolt is diminished only by the majesty of the cloud-cloaked Mt. Fuji, a sight that makes time stand still for a serene, spectacular moment.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: HOTEL MYSTAYS Fuji Onsen Resort or similar

Mt. Fuji 

Afterwards, ascend Mt. Fuji to the fifth station, hidden above the clouds. Depending on the weather, you might be able to capture the iconic mountain in all its breathtaking glory. (Alternatively, if the weather does not permit, you could visit Gotemba Peace Park or Hakone Checkpoint, renowned for their awe-inspiring vistas of nature's soaring, snow-capped feat.)

Later, experienced the hypnotising beauty of the Oshino Hakkai, also known as the Springs of Mt. Fuji — eight ponds fed by melting snow gliding down the slopes of Mt. Fuji to create crystal-clear spring water revered by the locals.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: HOTEL MYSTAYS Fuji Onsen Resort or similar

Mt.Fuji Tokyo

Begin today by joining a cruise of Lake Ashi, formed in the caldera of Mt. Hakone after the volcano’s last eruption over 3,000 years ago. Savour the numerous delights of nature.

Heading to Tokyo. After arriving in Tokyo, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatories, also known as the Tokyo City View, which are two observation decks located on the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, Tokyo. The building is one of the tallest in Tokyo, standing at 243 meters high, and offers stunning panoramic city views.

The rest of the day is at your own leisure. 

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodation: Sunshine City Prince Hotel or similar

Tokyo

Spend today exploring Tokyo at your own leisure.

Tokyo is the bustling capital city of Japan, known for its cutting-edge technology, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant city life. As one of the world's most populous cities, Tokyo is home to over 13 million people and is a hub of business, fashion, and entertainment. There is a vast array of things to see and do in Tokyo, from visiting historic temples and shrines to experiencing the latest in fashion and technology. Popular tourist attractions include the Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Crossing, Tsukiji Fish Market, the Imperial Palace, and the Meiji Shrine.

Tokyo is also known for its delicious cuisine, with a wide range of traditional and modern Japanese dishes to try. From sushi and ramen to tempura and yakitori, there's something for everyone to enjoy.The city is divided into distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From the high-energy atmosphere of Shinjuku and Shibuya to the serene gardens of Ueno and Rikugien, there is always something new and exciting to explore in Tokyo.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Sunshine City Prince Hotel or similar

Tokyo

You will be transferred to the airport for your homebound flight at the appropriate time. Tokyo is serviced by two airports, Narita and Haneda, which are both accessible from Tokyo city. Make sure you check your flight details before going to the airport.

Meals: Breakfast