13 days: Spirit of Japan

• Tokyo: (3 nights)
• Kyoto: (3 nights)
• Hiroshima: (1 night)
• Miyajima: (1 night Ryokan Japanese style room)
• Hakone (2 nights) - Ryokan & Spa
• Mt Fuji - Lake Ashi
• Nara
• Tokyo (1 night)
• Tea Ceremony
• Fully Guided Small Group tour
• Quality Ryokan, Spa & Hotels
• Optional:Sumo Tournament & Geisha performance

View Itinerary

Price & Departure dates

Tour Details at a Glance

Day 1
Depart from your preferred airport for your flight to Tokyo. Meals on board.

Day 2 Tokyo
Arrive at Narita Airport in Tokyo, where you are met by our driver and transferred to your centrally located hotel in Tokyo. The rest of the day is at your leisure to adjust to the 9 hours time difference.

Stay 3 nights at the highly regarded Villa Fontaine Shiodome Hotel.

Day 3 Tokyo (Breakfast at your hotel)
After breakfast in your hotel, meet your Tour Leader and profession Tour Guide who will look after you during your tour and travel with you throughout.

Today we explore Tokyo and our first stop is to the Tsukiji Fish Market which is the biggest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world and famous for the tuna and sword fish trading which frantically takes place in the early mornings.

We then visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the main residence of the Emperor of Japan. The massive east gardens are part of the inner palace, designed during the Meiji era and include traditional Japanese gardens, tea-ceremony rooms, guard houses and the stone remains of Edo Castle. Later we visit the Tokyo National Museum which contains many of Japans and Asia's most precious and historic sculptures, paintings and archaeological objects. Our final stop will be Tokyo's most colourful and popular Buddhist Temples, the famous and bustling Asakusa Kannon Temple. Afterwards we exchange our JR coupon to obtain our 7 day Rail pass at Tokyo Station.

Return to our hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy free time in Tokyo. Your Tour Guide can advise on places to visit, or good places to eat.

Day 4 Tokyo (Breakfast at your hotel)

Today, we use our rail pass to travel around Tokyo with our Tour Guide to explore more must-see sights of Tokyo. Our tour includes visiting the iconic Tokyo Government Office building, which provides some of the best views across Tokyo. Afterwards we travel to the impressive Meiji Shrine which is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort. Pass through the huge Shinto Torii gates and take a leisurely walk in the peaceful forest leading to the Shrine, far away from the hustle and bustle of modern Tokyo. Later we explore Harajuku and Omotesando Districts of Tokyo which is the centre of Japan's most extreme teenage cultures and fashion styles where many teenagers dress up in crazy costumes to resemble animation characters and punk musicians etc. Harajuku and Omotesando also offers great shopping opportunities and historic sights to explore.

Afternoon is free for you to explore Tokyo on your own. As always, your Tour Guide can advise on places to visit, or good places to eat.

Tokyo's Sumo Tournament is held during May & September. If your tour departs within the tournament period, we can arrange your match tickets at various tickets seat prices. Ask for details...

Day 5 Tokyo - Kyoto (Breakfast)
Today we take the Kodama bullet train to Kyoto, and take a short walk to our Hotel.

To make your train journey more comfortable we have arranged to transfer your large luggage directly to Kyoto.

In the afternoon we take a walking tour of Kyoto to visit the impressive and must-see Kiyomizu Temple built perched on the hillside overlooking Kyoto. We then walk though Ninnenzaka and Sannenzaka on one of Kyoto's most beautiful walks, which takes us down into the Gion area of Kyoto, famous for Geisha's. Enjoy walking down narrow streets lined with old wooden houses, traditional shops and restaurants. On our way we will visit Kodaiji Temple located in a beautiful part of Kyoto sitting atop a hill. Built in 1605 the temple contains absolutely stunning Zen Gardens, bamboo grove, tea houses and is one of the most beautiful Zen temples in Japan.

Accommodation at New Miyako Hotel or similar (3 nights)

Day 6 - Kyoto (Breakfast)

We enjoy a full day of sight seeing with our tour Guide. We take our own private coach to visit the famous Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji Temple) and Ryoanji Temple, which has Japan's most famous Zen rock garden. We then have a great opportunity to experience a Japanese Tea Ceremony, where we learn about the traditions associated with this ancient ritual.

In the afternoon we use public transport to visit Ginkakuji Temple (Silver Pavilion) and take a scenic walk along the Path of Philosophy which passes by many temples and shrines and follows a canal lined by hundreds of cherry trees, which explode into colour during Spring, making this one of the city's most popular hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots.

Day 7 Kyoto -Nara - Kyoto (Breakfast)

Today we take a short train journey to Nara where we explore the ancient capital city of Japan. Enjoy strolling in the Deer Park and exploring the impressive Todaiji Temple and Great Buddha. Return to Kyoto by train early afternoon.

Return to Kyoto early afternoon and the rest of the day is free for you to explore Kyoto on your own. As always your Tour Guide can advise on places to visit, or good places to eat.

*** To complete your Japan experience we can arrange an 'Optional' Geisha Special Dance & performance by an Authentic Geisha and Maiko. Ask for prices & details***

Day 8 Kyoto - Hiroshima (Breakfast)

This morning we use the subway system to visit Nijo Castle, commissioned by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate and completed in 1626. One of the most intriguing features is the "nightingale floors" designed to squeak like birds when anyone walks on them and designed to warn occupants of sneak attacks by Ninja assassins. Later we visit the shopping district of Kawaramachi and Nishiki Food Market which is lined with over one hundred shops and restaurants, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". This lively market specialises in all things food related, like fresh seafood, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find Kyoto specialities including Japanese sweets, dried seafood and sushi.

In the afternoon we transfer with our tour guide to Hiroshima by bullet trains.

To make your train journey more comfortable we have arranged to transfer your large luggage to Hakone (Prepare a small carry bag for your stay in Miyajima and Hiroshima).

Stay 1 night at the Hotel New Hiroden

Day 9 Hiroshima - Miyajima (Breakfast and Japanese Set Dinner)

This morning we explore Hiroshima by local tram with our guide. Our tour includes visiting the Peace Memorial Park and surrounding area, including the A-bomb Dome and Museum.

In the afternoon we return to our hotel and transfer by train to Miyajimaguchi, where we board a boat to Miyajima Island. Upon arrival at Miyajima we walk to our Ryokan accommodation.

In the afternoon we visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known worldwide for its floating Red torii gate. The stunning Shinto shrine and Torii gate are unique as they are constructed over the sea with each building in the complex connected by a series of walkways.

We return to our Ryokan for our Japanese set dinner which is exquisitely made with fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients. After dinner we take a leisurely evening walk to see the beutifully illuminated Red Torii gate at night.

Stay 1 night at the Benteno Yado Itsukushima Ryokan

Day 10 Miyajima - Hakone (Includes Breakfast & Japanese Buffet Dinner)

After breakfast in your Ryokan, enjoy free time to relax and enjoy Miyajima Island on your own. We recommend you take a leisurely walk around Momijidani Park etc. Later we join our Tour Guide for our transfer by boat and Bullet trains to Hakone. Upon arrival we walk to our Ryokan and spend the rest of the day relaxing in the hot spring spa. Later we enjoy a traditional Japanese buffet dinner served in your Ryokan.

Accommodation is at the superb Tenseien Ryokan which offers gorgeous scenery and steamy hot springs. Tenseien Ryokan adjoins a beautiful garden which is home to two waterfalls and Tamadare Shrine, and is equipped with a variety of indoor and outdoor Onsen spa baths, including a large open-air bath on the roof. (Western style room)

Day 11 Hakone (Includes Ryokan Breakfast & Buffet Dinner)
Today we explore the scenic areas of Hakone, which on a clear day provides great views of Mt Fuji. Together with our guide we take a Ropeway Ride to Owakudani and explore the volcanic Owakudani Valley. We then take a Ropeway Ride to Lake Ashi, where we board a boat to cruise the still waters of Lake Ashi. Later we visit the recently restored Hakone Sekisho, which was an important check point established by the Tokugawa shogun.

We return to Tenseien Ryokan in late afternoon and relax in the hot spring spa, before enjoying a buffet dinner in your Ryokan.

Day 12 -Hakone - Tokyo (Breakfast)

Enjoy breakfast at your ryokan and then join your Guide for the train journey back to Tokyo, where we transfer to our Hotel.

To make your train journey more comfortable we have arranged to transfer your large luggage directly to Tokyo, arriving the same day.

Afternoon is free for you to explore Tokyo on your own. As always, your Tour Guide can advise on places to visit, or good places to eat.

Stay 1 night at the Villa Fontaine Shiodome Hotel.

Day 13 -Tokyo (Breakfast)
Today we say Sa-yo-na-ra. Transfer by Airport Shuttle service to Narita Airport for your departure flight homewards.

2012 / 2013 Tour Price - £2680 per person based on Twin share

2012 Arrival Date in Tokyo	2013 Arrival Date in Tokyo	Special Tour Details	Prices
23rd March	22nd March	Spring Blossom	£2680
30th March	29th March	Spring Blossom	£2680
6th April	5th April	Spring Blossom	£2680
13th April	12th April	Spring Blossom	£2680
11th May	10th May	Sumo Tournament	£2680
14th September	20th September	Sumo Tournament	£2680
12th October	11th October	Early Autumn colours	£2680
19th October	18th October	Autumn Leaves	£2680
2nd November	1st November	Autumn Leaves	£2680
9th November	8th November	Autumn Leaves	£2680

*** Arrive date in Tokyo is Day 2, Departure date from UK and any other western countries is usually the day before, ie day 1***

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

• Driver meeting service and airport to hotel transfer on arrival.
• Experienced professional English speaking Tour Guide/Tour Leader from Day 3 to 12, who will accompany you throughout your tour.
• Quality selection of hotels and superb Ryokans with spa facilities.
• All transfers and entrance fees included.
• Daily Breakfast, 3 Evening Meals.
• Free luggage transfer from hotel to hotel (1 piece per person) between Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Hakone and Hakone to Tokyo. (Therefore no large luggage at Hiroshima & Miyajima, please prepare a small bag to carry with you for these days). Leave your large luggage at the designated areas in the morning of luggage transfer.
• No hidden extras, all entrance fees & transport included.
• Guided tours by private coach, trains and public transport all included.
• Airport transfer on departure.

Price Does Not Include

• International flights. These can be provided with Full ATOL Protection
• Optional tours. Sumo Tournament tickets & Geisha Dance tickets.
• Travel Insurance.

Why choose to travel with Magical Japan?
As a specialist Tour Operator providing tours to Japan for nearly 10 years, we have the expertise & experience to ensure you have a magical holiday. By travelling with Magical Japan on our small group guided tours, we can ensure you see the true beauty and culture of Japan.

About our Small group Tours?
Our small group tours are designed to ensure you have the best holiday and cultural experience possible. All entrance fees and transfers are included, with no hidden extras. We even include separate luggage transfers between hotels as luggage space on trains is limited and carrying large luggage is difficult. This enable you to relax and enjoy your transfers as well as your tours. Leave your large luggage at the designated areas in the morning of luggage transfers.

Transport will be by train, including Bullet train, private coach and public transport (all included in the tour price). The tour involves some walking and therefore reasonable level of fitness is required, however it is suitable for all ages.

Our tour is arranged on a small group basis, average 6-8 people per group, as we feel this gives our travellers more flexibility and enjoyment. By reducing the group size our experienced guide can show you the true beauty of Japan.

Our itineraries are designed at a sensible pace with a combination of escorted sightseeing and some free time. The tour price is calculated based upon a minimum of 6 travellers in 1 group. In the unlikely situation where the number is less than 6, we will either offer an alternative date which is as close to the original departure date as possible, or travellers can pay for a private tour.

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 Please refer to the itinerary for hotel and Ryokan names and details. Our superb choice of hotel and Ryokan accommodation are all well tested and in good locations, with great facilities. We are confident of our quality and selection and many of our Hotels & luxurious traditional Ryokans include Onsen (Hot Spring spa facilities) and all provide excellent dining experiences. Click here to understand more about Ryokans & Onsens. Western rooms in Ryokans can be provided if requested at booking stage (Subject to availability). Hotel selection is sometimes dependant upon room availability at time of booking, particularly during festival periods.

*Cherry Blossom blooming and Autumn leaf changing periods are both natural events occurring over relatively short duration's and are affected by seasonal variations and climate. Therefore they can not be 100% guaranteed at time of your visit. Historically the peak cherry blossoms viewing typical in Japan is late March & early April and autumn leave changing mid to late October to early to mid November.

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.