Splendours of Japan 16 DAYS
(New) Explore the ancient, modern, scenic and remote area of Japan.

• Tokyo tour (5 nights)
• Kamakura tour
• Nikko tour
• Tea Ceremony
• Mt Fuji - Lake Ashi - Hakone
• Hakone (1 night hot spring spa hotel)
• Nagoya tour (1 night)
• Toba and Ise tour
• Takayama tour (1 night)
• Shirakawago tour
• Kanazawa (1 night)
• Kyoto: tour (5 nights)
• Hiroshima and Miyajima tour
• Nara tour

View Itinerary

Price & Departure dates

Tour Details at a Glance

• Professional English Speaking guide service from day 3 to day 14.
• English speaking assistants at points of transfer on day 8 & 9.
• Airport meeting service and airport to hotel transfer on arrival.
• Quality selection of hotels.
• All transfers and entrance fees included.
• Luggage transfers between destinations as stated in itinerary.
• No hidden extras, all entrance fees & transport included.
• Guided tours by coach, trains and public transport all included.
• Airport transfer on departure.
• International flights can be provided - Full ATOL Protection.
• 1 Night Ryokan option can be provided

Day 1 Departure
Depart from Heathrow airport or your preferred local airport 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. Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 3 Tokyo

Coach tour of Tokyo with professional English speaking guide, visiting a number of the main highlights of this magnificent City. The tour includes a visit to Tokyo Tower for an aerial view of the city. We then visit the Imperial Palace Plaza and famous Double bridge. Our tour continues with a visit to the famous Asakusa Kannon Temple & Nakamise Shopping Arcade. We disband at Akihabara giving you the opportunity to explore the hustle and bustle of the main shopping areas in Tokyo. 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. We recommend a visit to Ropponghi hill observatory or the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building observatory (free) for great evening views across Tokyo. You may even see Mt Fuji on a clear day.

Day 4 Tokyo

Today we accompany our Tour guide to experience a Tea Ceremony in a tea house. Enjoy learning about this traditional Japanese ritual and sample the specially prepared green tea.

Afterwards you are free to explore the exciting city of Tokyo, where you can shop for bargains in Akihabara, the electronic goods capital of Japan. Or visit the high class Ginza shopping area. Alternatively go to Ueno, which is famous for its park and colourful street market, on the way to Asakusa. In Asakusa you can browse the many colourful stores lining the Nakamise walkway leading up to Sensoji Temple. Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 5 Tokyo - Hase - Kamakura - Tokyo (Japanese style Lunch)

Meet our tour guide in the morning for a full day walking tour to Kamakura. We take a local train journey to Kamakura via Hase. Enjoy superb view of Kamakura and the sea from Hasedera Temple before taking a short walk to the bronze Great Buddha at Kotokuin Temple, the second largest Buddha statue in Japan. After lunching at a Japanese restaurant, we take the train to Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine, the most important shrine in Kamakura. Walk along Wakamiya-oji, famous for the hundreds of cherry trees that line the path to the shrine. On the way back to Tokyo station we can stop by Komachi-dori’s many arts and crafts shops and tea shops. Tour disbands at Tokyo Station. Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 6 Nikko (Lunch)

Full day tour by Deluxe motorcoach to Nikko National park, a designated World Cultural Heritage site. Nikko is a gem of Natural scenic beauty and 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.

After enjoying a Japanese style lunch at a local restaurant, we travel to see the architectually stunning Tamozawa Imperial Villa, constructed in 1899 and which served as the Tokyo residence of the Tokugawa family and later a summer retreat for the Imperial Family. Later we visit the spectacular Kirifuri waterfall before continue our drive back to Tokyo.

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. Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 7 Tokyo - MT Fuji - Hakone (Japanese style Lunch)

You will be picked up from your hotel and driven by deluxe motorcoach to Mount Fuji. Along the way you will enjoy the scenery of rural Japan, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and mountainous peaks. From our vantage point on the 5th station on MT Fuji, we will enjoy spectacular views (weather permitting). Lunch will be provided at a Hotel/Restaurant in Hakone. In the afternoon we proceed to the Hakone National Park where we will take a cable car ride with the opportunity to see the magnificent volcanic Hakone mountain range below. We will then travel to the Owakudani Boiling Valley where you will see ancient volcanic craters with sulfurous fumes and clouds of steam spiraling from crevasses across the mountain side giving a truly mystical image. We then proceed with our tour for a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, which is set in serene natural beauty, where weather permitting spectacular views of Mount Fuji can be seen silhouetted in the lake. After the tour transfer to your hotel in Hakone. Accommodation at Hotel with hot springs baths for that ultimate relax.

Accommodation at the Yumoto Fujiya Hotel includes hot springs indoor & outdoor baths for ultimate relaxation.

Day 8 Hakone - Nagoya (Buffet Lunch)

Leave your main luggage with bell boy for luggage transfer to Kyoto before check out. This morning we transfer to Odawara station and take the Shinkansen (Bullet train) to Nagoya. Nagoya is Japans 4th Largest city and the highlight of todays guided tour of Nagoya is visiting the magnificent Nagoya Castle and Toyota commemorative museum of industry and technology. Overnight at Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel - Nagoya.

'Due to luggage restrictions on the bullet train, we have arranged for your baggage to be collected and transported by truck from Hakone to Kyoto. Therefore we recommend you prepare a light overnight bag for your overnight stays in Nagoya & Toba.

Day 9 Nagoya - Ise - Toba - Kyoto (Japanese style Lunch)

After breakfast our exciting tour continues with a train journey to Ise where we explore the Ise Jingu Shrine which dates from the 7th century and stands as Japan's most sacred shrine. Later we travel to Okage Yokocho and Mikimoto Pearl Island to observe a demonstration of pearl cultivation and making of exquisite pearl jewellery. (Be sure to bring your passport, as pearls may be purchased here tax-free). Afterwards we visit the Ama huts used by the Women pearl divers who wear traditional white diving suits with no breathing apparatus dive for pearls in this coastal area. (when Ama huts or Mikimoto pearl island are closed we will see Toba Aquarium or Futamigaura instead). After lunch we transfer to Kyoto by train. Overnight in Kyoto

Day 10 Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto (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 Nishi 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.

Day 11 Kyoto - Hiroshima & Miyajima - kyoto

Today we take a train to Miyajima Island (sacred island) and visit Itsukushima Jinja shrine, 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. After the tour we take the Nozomi train back to Kyoto (110 minutes). Tour disbands at Kyoto station. Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 12 Kyoto - Takayama

Our guide will meet you at your hotel, and we will transfer to Takayama. Takayama is an quaint old castle town often nickname 'little Kyoto'. The town is best explored by foot and therefore in the afternoon we have a guided tour where we stroll through the streets of Kakayama and Kami Sannomachi, with traditional wooden houses. We visit the Yatai Kaikan Hall, where colourful traditional festive floats are on display. Later we travel to the Kusakabe folkcraft museum, which was formerly the residence of powerful merchants. Stay at Hida Plaza Hotel Takayama.

For ease of travel we recommend a light overnight carry bag for your 2 nights stay in Takayama and Kanazawa. Large luggage can be stored in the Kyoto hotel for your return.

Day 13 Takayama - Shirakawago - Kanazawa
We start todays tour by visiting the famous morning market of Takayama, followed by a scenic drive alongside Lake Miboro and the Shokawa River to the powerful former residence of the Wada family. Later we travel to Shirakawago which has World Heritage designation status and is truly a spectacular experience, which many believe is the 'hidden treasure' in Japan. Visiting Shirakawago is like stepping back in time, with uniquely crafted traditional wooden farmhouses (Gassho-Zukuri) set in a beautiful mountainous landscape where we explore a Gasshozukuri Folk Village. Finally we continue to Kanazawa and our hotel accommodation. Stay at Hotel Nikko Kanazawa.

Day 14 Kanazawa - Kyoto

Morning sight-seeing of Kanazawa by coach includes a visit to the Kenrokuen Garden, which is regarded as one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. The tour includes a fascinating visit to Kutaniyaki Pottery Kiln. Finally we explore the high ranking Nomura family Samurai residence, located in the old Samurai district.

Afternoon we take the Limited Express train to Kyoto. Accommodation at the New Miyako hotel or similar. Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 15 Kyoto
Day free at Leisure to explore the fascinating city of Kyoto or purchase an optional afternoon tour which includes visiting the colourful Heian Shrine and inner garden and ponds, Sanjusangendo Hall, a renowned long wooden hall housing all of 1,001 statues that date back to the 13th century. Last but not least, we visit the magnificent Kiyomizu Temple built on the hillside overlooking Kyoto and providing spectacular views across the entire city (Kiyomizu Temple is not to be missed). This highly recommended afternoon tour can be prearranged at time of booking.

Day 16 Kyoto - Homeward

Take the Limousine airport bus from your hotel to the futuristic Kansai International Airport in Osaka for your departure flight.

Group Departure Dates & Prices (£)

Weekly departures available excluding Feb 14, 21, April 3, April 17 to May 1, July 3, 10, 31 to Aug 7, Sep 11 to 18, Oct 2, 23, Nov 13, 20.

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

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

• Airport/hotel transfers.
• Sightseeing tours by professional English-speaking tour guide.
• All entrance fees whilst on guided tours.
• All Train tickets as specified in itinerary.
• 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 Hakone & Kyoto on day 8. one piece per person.

Price Does Not Include

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

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.

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 Meals are as specified in the itinerary. Breakfast at hotels 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.

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.

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.

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 Hakone to Kyoto due to luggage restrictions on bullet trains. Please leave your luggage in the designated areas with the hotel porters on the day of your checkout by 7:30am.

We also recommend taking a Ryokan experience (Japanese guest house) on the last day in Kyoto. The supplement starts from £160 per person for 1 night with Japanese breakfast & Dinner included.

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. If the Toyota museum is closed we will visit Tokugawa Art Museum, Tokugawaen or Noritake no Mori instead. If Wado family residence & Gasshozukuri Folk park is closed, we visit Nagase Residence or Myozenji temple instead. On day 5 train trip to Kamakura, please note that there is no reserved seating on the trains and therefore it may not be guaranteed that you will be able to sit. We also recommend you wear casual clothing and comfortable shoes suitable for walking. *There is a possibility that your tour guide does not accompany you on the train back to Tokyo after Kamakura station for operational reasons. In this case, your guide will provide information on how to go back to your hotel from Kamakura station. If numbers of travelers on the Kamakura tour are more than 15 people, ear phone guidance may be used. Please note loss of ear phone may result in 10,000JPY compensation being payable to guide company.

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.