SPRING IN JAPAN 2026

After breakfast, meet your English-speaking guide and set off for a full-day sightseeing tour of Tokyo by coach. Begin your exploration with a visit to the historic Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks, followed by a stroll through the vibrant Nakamise Shopping Arcade, where you can browse a variety of traditional snacks and souvenirs. Continue to the Tokyo Skytree, ascending to the Tembo Deck to take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. Later, enjoy a leisurely walk through the upscale district of Ginza, known for its luxury boutiques, stylish cafes, and elegant atmosphere. Return to the hotel for dinner.

Begin with a visit to the Imperial Palace Plaza, where you can admire the elegant surroundings of the Emperor’s residence, followed by a stroll through the beautifully maintained Imperial Palace East Garden. From there, head to Ueno Station for some free time to purchase lunch and explore the nearby shopping arcade at your own pace. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to visit either the Tokyo National Museum, home to a vast collection of Japanese art and cultural artifacts, or Ueno Park Zoo—Japan’s only zoo with giant pandas. After a day full of discovery, return to your hotel in Tokyo for a restful evening.

Depart for a scenic sightseeing journey through Hakone. Your first stop is the Hakone Open Air Museum, where art and nature blend beautifully in an outdoor setting featuring sculptures and exhibitions. Continue with a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. Visit the historic Hakone Checkpoint, a reconstruction of an important Edo-period border crossing, followed by a peaceful visit to the serene Hakone Shrine, nestled at the foot of Mount Hakone. From there, travel onward to Yamanakako, where you’ll arrive at your hotel and check in for the evening. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.

Begin with a visit to Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque village known for its crystal-clear spring water ponds and charming traditional homes. Continue your journey up the iconic Mt. Fuji to the 5th Station, where, weather permitting, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and the unique atmosphere of Japan’s most famous peak. If weather conditions prevent access to the 5th Station, you’ll instead explore the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center, which offers fascinating insights into the mountain’s cultural and natural significance. After your visit, travel onward to the historic town of Takayama. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Begin your day with a visit to Takayama’s lively Morning Market, where you can browse local produce, crafts, and snacks. Then, stroll through the beautifully preserved Takayama Old Town, with its charming Edo-period streets and traditional wooden buildings. Your tour also includes a visit to a local sake brewery, where you’ll learn about the brewing process and enjoy a tasting of regional varieties. After the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Depart for Kanazawa via the charming village of Gokayama. There, you’ll try your hand at making traditional washi paper and visit a local gasshozukuri house. Continue to Kanazawa to explore the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden and the historic Nomura House, a former samurai residence. After sightseeing, arrive at your hotel in Kanazawa, check in, and enjoy dinner.

After breakfast at the hotel, your baggage will be sent separately to Kyoto by truck. Meet your English-speaking guide and transfer to Kanazawa Station to board the Express trains (Tsurugi and Thunderbird, schedule TBC) to Kyoto via Tsuruga, with your guide accompanying you on board. Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, enjoy some free time for lunch at the underground arcade before beginning a half-day coach tour. Visit the iconic Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, then transfer to your hotel in Kyoto for check-in. Dinner will be served either at the hotel or a local restaurant.

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your English-speaking guide and set off on a half-day coach tour of Kyoto. Visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic torii gate pathway, explore the historic Sanjusangen-do Hall, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming Gion district. After the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Depart for a half-day tour of Nara. Visit Nara Park, home to friendly free-roaming deer, and explore the impressive Todai-ji Temple, known for its giant Buddha statue. Then, enjoy a hands-on sushi-making experience, followed by lunch with your own creations. Return to your hotel in Kyoto for a free afternoon at your leisure. In the evening, enjoy a Teppan-yaki dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to the hotel.

Begin with a visit to the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before arriving at Kyoto Station. Board the Shinkansen Nozomito Hiroshima. Upon arrival at Hiroshima Station, transfer to a half-day sightseeing tour by coach, visiting the Peace Memorial Museum and Park. Afterward, check in to your hotel in Hiroshima. In the evening, head out for a delicious Okonomiyaki dinner at a local restaurant.

Depart for a full-day coach tour of Hiroshima. Take a ferry to Miyajima Island and explore the famous Itsukushima Shrine, known for its iconic floating torii gate. Spend some time strolling around Miyajima Island at your leisure before returning to Hiroshima.

Board the Express train Nozomi to Shin-Osaka, with your guide accompanying you on board. Upon arrival, enjoy a half-day coach tour of Osaka, including a stroll through the lively Dotonbori district with free time for lunch, followed by a visit to Osaka Castle. After sightseeing, check in to your hotel and conclude the day with a farewell dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Hotel: Sheraton Miyako Osaka for 1 night

This morning, we transfer you to the airport to begin the journey home. Upon arrival in Perth (Day 15), your driver will be waiting to transfer you safely home.