Magical Japan
 

13 days: Spirit of Japan

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

Images of Japan

Magical Japan Tours enquiry@magicaljapan.com
  Tel from UK 0161 440 7332
  Tel from USA 1-213-325-2627

itinerary below View Itinerary

itinerary below Price & Departure dates

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miyajima

 

bullet train

 

tokyo

 

tokyo

 

sumo in tokyo

 

kyoto

 

kyoto

 

kyoto

 

geishia

 

hiroshima

 

hiroshima

 

nara

 

hakone lake ashi

 

lake ashi hakone

 

tokyo gibli museum

 

tokyo

mt fuji bullet train

 

tokyo

 

tokyo

Tour Details at a Glance

  • Fully Guided Small Group tour.
  • Experienced professional English speaking Tour Guide/Tour Leader from Day 3 to 12.
  • Quality selection of hotels and superb Ryokans with spa facilities.
  • 7 Day Rail pass included.
  • Daily Breakfast, 3 Evening Meals.
  • Luggage transfers between destinations as stated in itinerary.
  • No hidden extras, all entrance fees & transport included.
  • Guided tours by private coach, Bullet trains and public transport all included.
  • International flights can be provided - Full ATOL Protection

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

Day 2 Tokyo
Arrive at Airport in Tokyo and self transfer to your hotel.
The rest of the day is at your leisure to adjust to the 9 hours time difference. *Airport meeting assistant and transfer service can be provided as an option*

Stay 3 nights at the highly regarded Tokyo Sheraton Miyako Hotel (or similar).

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 ISHICHO SHOGIKUEN Ryokan 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 Hiroshima Mitsui Garden hotel (or similar).

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 Miyajima Aki Grand Hotel (or similar).

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 (or similar), 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 our 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 Tokyo Sheraton Miyako Hotel (or similar).

Day 13 -Tokyo (Breakfast)
Today we say Sa-yo-na-ra. Self transfer to Narita Airport for your departure flight homewards. (Optional airport transfer from central Tokyo can be provided).

2016 Tour Prices per person based on Twin share
2016 Departure Dates
Special Tour Details
Prices

Saturday 2nd April 2016

Spring Blossom
£2995

Saturday 14th May 2016

ideal weather/temp
Full

Saturday 29th Oct 2016

Autumn leaves
£2995

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

  • 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.
  • 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.

Price Does Not Include

  • International flights. These can be provided with Full ATOL Protection
  • Optional tours. Sumo Tournament tickets & Geisha Dance tickets.
  • Optional Airport meet & greet service & airport bus transfers.
  • Travel Insurance.

FAQ and Further Tour Information
Please see our FAQ page for further essential tour information.

This tour is suitable for travellers of all ages, who are reasonably fit and healthy. Add on extensions are available to suit your requirements.

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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