15 & 17 days - Japan Discovery

• Tokyo: morning tour (4 nights)
• Lake Kawaguchi: Ryokan & spa stay (1 night)
• Nikko tour
• Mt Fuji & Bullet Trains
• Kyoto: city tour (3 nights)
• Nara tour
• Hiroshima & Miyajima: city tour (2 nights)
• Okayama: Korakuen Garden (1 night)
• Osaka: city tour (2 nights)
• Tour Extension: Mt Koya Temple stay
• Guaranteed departure minimum 2 people

View Itinerary

Price & Departure dates

Day 1 Departure (Sunday)
Depart from Heathrow or your preferred airport for a scheduled flight to Tokyo. Meals on board.

Day 2 Tokyo

Arrive at Narita Airport in Tokyo, you are met by your tour assistant and transferred to your hotel for a 3 night stay. The rest of the day is at your leisure to adjust to the 9 hours time difference.

Day 3 Tokyo

Morning city tour of Tokyo visiting a number of the main highlights of this magnificent City. The tour includes a visit to the Tokyo Tower where you can enjoy panoramic views across the city from the observation tower. We proceed to the peaceful picturesque setting of the Meiji Shrine, set in thick woodland and considered to be one of the finest examples of Shinto Architecture. Next we visit the 'Akasaka Guest House' for a photo opportunity. The Guest House is a magnificent 'Western Style Palace' built in the Baroque Architectural style. We then drive alongside the imposing National Diet Building, which is home to the Japanese House of Parliament. Our tour continues across Tokyo to the Imperial Palace East Garden, where we enjoy a pleasant walk in the East Garden of the Imperial Palace, which is filled with scenic and historic beauty. (Alternatively for tours on Monday & Friday we will visit the Imperial Palace plaza and famous Double bridge instead of the East Garden, including a visit to the inner moat and towering Palace walls surrounded by pine trees). Our tour will continue with a drive and stroll along Ginza high street, the famous shopping area of Tokyo. Our tour will disband at Ginza giving you the opportunity for shopping.We also recommend you visit the Sony Centre building to see the futuristic electronics on display. Ginza is also convenient for the subway to explore further.

Afternoon - free at leisure or take optional afternoon city tour, which includes Asakusa Kannon Temple and Sumida river cruise. (ask for details at time of booking).

Day 4 Tokyo - Nikko - Tokyo (includes lunch)
Full day tour in Deluxe motorcoach to Nikko National park, a designated World Cultural Heritage site. Nikko is a gem of Natural scenic beauty and is home to some of the most spectacular examples of ancient 17th-century Architecture in Japan. The tour includes a visit to the magnificent Toshogu shrine, which houses the Mausoleum of the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. We will see the Five-Story Pagoda, Niomon Gate, Three Monkeys, Yomeimon Gate and Main Sacred Hall. We then travel along the scenic Irohazaka hairpin highway for Japanese style lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch we travel to the spectacular Kegon waterfall which is 100 metres in height. We continue our tour with a scenic drive alongside Lake Chuzenji (reported to be 161.5 metres deep) and MT Nantai. The tour disbands on arrival in Ginza & Shinjuku at around 7-8pm, where you will have ample restaurants and bars to choose from for your evening meal and entertainment, or if you prefer, you can return to your hotel. For your assistance, full information on return transportation will be provided by your tour guide.

*Departure Dates except Sun 2 May, 18 Jul, 15, Aug, 19 Sept, 3, all Oct.

Day 5 Tokyo - Lake Kawaguchi (Dinner in Ryokan)

In the morning take the prepaid highway coach to Lake Kawaguchi (approx travel time 1.45 hour). Upon arrival at Lake Kawaguchi walk to your Ryokan. Lake Kawaguchi is one of the Mt Fuji lakes nestled near the base of the mountain. Your stay will be in a Ryokan tradition Japanese style Inn (japanese style room), where you can enjoy tradition Japanese meals and relax and bath in open air and indoor hot springs spa with spectacular views of Mt Fuji from your spa. Fishing and hiking is also possible by the lakeside. A completely unforgettable experience.

Day 6 Lake Kawaguchi - Tokyo (Breakfast in Ryokan)

Free time to enjoy the countryside and amenities of your Ryokan until your departure back to your hotel in Tokyo by prepaid highway bus in the mid afternoon. Unasisted transfer back to your hotel upon arrival.

Day 7 Tokyo - Kyoto

In the morning take the Shinkansen (Bullet train) to Kyoto. Accommodation at the New Miyako hotel or similar (3 nights). Check into your hotel which is conveniently located near to the station.

'Due to luggage restrictions on the bullet train, we have arranged for your baggage to be collected and transported by truck from Tokyo to Kyoto. Please leave your luggage (1 piece of luggage per person) with the Tokyo hotel concierge before your departure.

Day 8 Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto (includes buffet lunch)
Full day sight-seeing tour of Kyoto & Nara including a visit to the Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavilion) centred around one of the best examples of a Japanese Zen garden in the world.Then to Nijo Castle, residence of the Tokugawa Shogun. Built in 1603, Nijo Castle is noted for its Ornate interior and 'nightingale floor' designed to sing when stepped upon to warn of Ninja assassins.(When closed visit Ryoanji temple). We then travel to the Old Kyoto Imperial Palace (on Sat/Sun & national holidays visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine or Hagashi Honganji temple instead). Finally we explore the Kyoto Handicraft Center where we enjoy demonstrations of Japanese traditional arts and crafts. Buffet lunch is provided at the Kyoto handicraft centre. After lunch we travel to the ancient capital of Japan, Nara. Our tour includes a visit to Todaiji Temple, one of the world's largest wooden buildings housing the Great Buddha. We proceed to the Kasuga Shinto Shrine the most famous and beautiful Shinto shrine in Nara with 3,000 antique stone and bronze lanterns. Finally we explore Nara Deer Park with more than 1,000 deer roaming freely around the 1,250 acres park. Return to your hotel in Kyoto (includes: Lunch).

Day 9 Kyoto

Free day to explore Kyoto, or take an optional walking tour to explore Kyoto's Philosopher's Path and experience the "Tea Ceremony". Ask for details and prices at time of booking.

Day 10 Kyoto - Hiroshima

Unassisted transfer to Hiroshima by Bullet train. Walk to your hotel which is conveniently situated close to train station. Rest of day free at leisure.

'Due to luggage restrictions on the bullet train, we have arranged for your baggage to be collected and transported by truck from Kyoto to Osaka. Please leave your luggage (1 piece of luggage per person) with the Tokyo hotel concierge before your departure. You will require a small (hand luggage size) bag for your stay in Hiroshima & Okayama.

Day 11 Hiroshima - Miyajima - Hiroshima

Today we have a full day tour including visiting Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima with its breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Then we explore the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, near the epicenter where the atomic bomb exploded. We also visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, featuring exhibitions of items related to the nuclear bomb.

Day 12 Hiroshima - Okayama

Morning free to explore Hiroshima on your own. In the afternoon take the train for an unassisted transfer to Okayama. Upon arrival check into your hotel which is conveniently located near station.

Day 13 Okayama - Osaka

Today you have free time to explore Okayama and we recommend you start with a visit to the famous and beautiful Korakuen Garden, regarded as one of the best gardens in Japan and is one of Japan's official Three Great Gardens. Later visit Okayama Castle and then we suggest visiting the nearby historic city of Kurashiki located in Okayama Prefecture (about 15 minutes by local train). The city has a preserved canal system that dates back to the Edo Period (1603-1867), used when Kurashiki served as an important rice distribution center for Japan.

Afterwards take the unassisted train transfer to Osaka, arriving in the evening. Upon arrival in Osaka take the short walk to you hotel which is conveniently located near to train station.

Day 14 Osaka

A free day to explore Osaka city, which is easily navigated using the underground subways. A must-see sight in Osaka is the magnificent Osaka Castle located in the city centre. Then explore Dotonbori which is one of the most popular streets in Osaka and runs adjacent to a canal of the same name. Nearby Domi domi shopping and eating areas are one of most exciting districts in Japan. Shinsaibashi is probably the best shopping area and certainly the most frenetic. If you want to explore more historic culture then visit the beautiful and peaceful Shitennoji Buddhist temple. Shitennoji is the oldest officially administered temple in Japan built by Prince Shotoku (574-622 A.D)

Day 15 Osaka - Homeward

Limousine airport coach transfer from your hotel to Kansai Airport for your departure flight.

OPTIONAL TOUR EXTENSION: from £845 per person based upon twin share.

Day 15 Osaka - MT Koya (Dinner)
Today your guide will meet you at Kyoto and we transfer by express train to MT Koya. The route will take us to Osaka and on to Mount Koya, arriving around 1.00pm. Mount Koya is home to over 117 temples and our guide will accompany you on a full sightseeing tour of the mountains main highlights. You will then travel up the sacred mountainside by cable car to your overnight 'Japanese style' private accommodation at the magnificent Temple for the Shingon Esoteric sect of Buddhism, which is still in use by monks today. The peaceful temple is set in beautiful wooded mountainous countryside, 1000m above sea level and is ideal to relax and meditate (include: Vegetarian 'monk style' Dinner at Temple)

Day 16 MT Koya - Osaka (Breakfast)
Wake early to see the morning Buddhist Ceremony with the monks at the temple and for your Vegetarian Breakfast. The monks are more than happy for you to attend or watch the ceremony, however this tour is designed for cultural interest and not for any particular religious practice.

Transfer to Namba (Osaka) by express train with your guide (approx. 110min). We then take a guided sightseeing tour around Osaka by public transport including a visit to the spectacular Osaka Castle. Transfer to your hotel with guide's assistance (includes: Vegetarian breakfast).

Day 17 Osaka to Homeward
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the futuristic Kansai International Airport in Osaka for departure to UK. Arriving UK later the same day.

Group Departure Dates & Prices (£)

Ref	Departure Every Sunday	Land Only (twin share)	Single supp
JD	March	2590	880
JD	April	2590	880
JD	May	2590	880
JD	June	2535	860
JD	July	2535	860
JD	August	2535	860
JD	September	2535	860
JD	October	2590	880
JD	November	2590	880

We are happy to provide your flight tickets with the airline and departure airport of your choice - Flights from £550pp with full ATOL Protection...

** The peak season to Japan is cherry blossoms viewing (late March & early April), and autumn leave changing (October & early November). The first day of blooming (Kaika) in Tokyo usually comes at the end of March, with the trees reaching full bloom about one week later.

The price may be different around the bank holidays in the UK, and the festivals period in Japan. Please contact us for confirmation. The single supplement is based on 3 people in 1 group. The hotel upgrade price is based on twin share, for single room upgrade please contact us.

Price Includes (The prices shown above are 'per person')

• Airport/hotel transfers.
• All entrance fees whilst on guided tours.
• All Train tickets as specified in itinerary.
• Highway coach return transfer: Lake Kawaguchi - Tokyo
• Sightseeing tours by professional English-speaking tour guide.
• Selections of quality accommodation in well furnished hotel rooms with private facilities.
• Meals as specified in the itinerary.
• Free luggage transfer from hotel to hotel between Tokyo to Kyoto and Kyoto to Osaka.

Price Does Not Include

• International Flights: We are happy to provide flights with full ATOL Protection.
• Optional tours.
• Travel Insurance.
• Optional tour extension

Why choose to travel with Magical Japan?
From the moment you talk to our travel consultants, who have all travelled extensively in Japan, our experience ensures you will have a magical holiday.Our service includes meet & greet at airport and free luggage transfer from hotel to hotel etc. There are no additional entrance fees or transportation costs on any sightseeing tours that are already listed in our programme. Your tours are with officially qualified professional English speaking tour guides. Transfers are by air-conditioned deluxe coach and you will have time to enjoy each sightseeing place on foot. The tour itineraries are regularly checked and provide an ideal length of time to show you the sights, with free time to explore according to your own interests. Most importantly we Guarantee departure with minimum 2 people.

Flights If you require international flights, as an agent for many airline consolidators, we can obtain flights in various classes with reputable airlines such as ANA, BA, Virgin, Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, Finnair etc. For the cheapest deal we recommend you book your international flights at time of booking, as this can save you pounds off your final holiday price. Full ATOL Protection Available.

Your Accommodation for this tour Carefully selected quality accommodation in ideal locations, with upgrade to deluxe level available.

Your Meals Breakfast at hotels is not included, but can be booked in advance or purchased in Japan on a daily basis. Alternatively, there are many places around the hotels where you can buy meals.. Lunch as specified in the itinerary. Breakfast & Dinner included in the Ryokan in Lake Kawaguchi.

Other details of our tour arrangements Upon arrival at Tokyo Airport, you will be met by one of our assistants and directed to the limousine bus terminal. For each day of your itinerary (excluding free time), you will be met by English speaking guides at your hotel for escorted tours.

To ensure our travellers have a relaxing and enjoyable holiday, a hotel to hotel luggage transfer service (1 piece of luggage per person) is provided between Tokyo to Kyoto and Kyoto to Osaka due to luggage restrictions on bullet trains. Please leave luggage in designated areas in hotel lobby for pickup before your departure.

This tour is suitable for travellers of all ages, who are reasonably fit and healthy. Add on tours and city extensions are available, for details visit optional tours page.

Nijo Castle (Kyoto) is closed (Tue in Jul & Aug), therefore if your tour falls on these dates, we will visit Ryoanji Temple instead. Kyoto Imperial Palace is closed at weekends and on national holidays, we will visit Kitano Tenmangu, or Ryoanji Temple instead.

Our itinerary is designed according to the most up to date information available at the time. The above itinerary highlights the main attractions that are to be visited each day. In regards to expected transfer times and train times these may vary as they are subject to schedules and availability controlled by the various railway companies. It is extremely rare that itineraries ever need changes and we will always act in your best interest to handle any amendments if this did occur. However we reserve the right to change, amend or alter the itinerary if required, for example occasionally the tour sequence and duration of time spent in each city can change due to local conditions which are out of our control or due to heavy traffic conditions or bad weather. Please refer to the booking form for detailed terms & conditions.