Experience Japan's culture, art, traditions, and crafts. Visit sacred temples and shrines, stunning gardens and wander through Tokyo's shopping districts. From the history of Hiroshima and the wonders of ancient Kyoto to the historic farm-houses of Shirakawa-go, the serene Mount Fuji, and the tranquil island of Miyajima, Japan will take your breath away! Engage in unique experiences such as visiting a sumo wrestling club, trying your hand at gold leaf decoration and sushi making, and partaking in a traditional tea ceremony. This tour is a blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels.
DAY 1 - AUCKLAND/TOKYO
Your Air NZ flight NZ99 departs Auckland at 10.05am, arriving in Tokyo at 5.00pm. Transfer to your hotel. Stay Prince Hotel Shinagawa or similar (3 nights).
DAY 2 - TOKYO SIGHTSEEING B,D
After breakfast, visit Tokyo's iconic Ueno Park, home to over a thousand cherry trees. In the spring, the park transforms into a sea of pink blossoms. Later visit Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and Asakusa Sumo Club. Asakusa Sumo Club offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese sport of sumo wrestling. Located in Tokyo's Asakusa district, the club provides lessons in sumo techniques, history, and culture. You will learn basic moves, interact with professional sumo wrestlers and gain insight into this ancient and fascinating sport.
DAY 3 - TOKYO SIGHTSEEING B,D
Visit Meiji Jingu a renowned shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Situated within a vast forested park, it offers a serene and solemn sanctuary. Later proceed to Ginza, a shopping paradise. Visit Odaiba Seaside Park, a park celebrated for its stunning seaside vistas and diverse recreational facilities. Enjoy the ocean views - stroll shop and sightsee in this area.
DAY 4 - TOKYO/LAKE YAMANAKAKO B,D
Depart from Tokyo and head to your hotel in the village of Yamanakako. Its lake is the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and popular among Japanese outdoor enthusiasts. On the way visit Owakudani in Hakone, known for its volcanic activity and mountain scenery. Often there are great views of Mount Fuji. Enjoy the hot water Onsen bathing facilities in your hotel tonight. Stay Hotel in Yamanakako (1 night).
DAY 5 - YAMANAKAKO/MATSUMOTO B,D
In the morning, visit Oishi Park and Oshino Hakkai. Oishi Park, located on the northern side of Mount Fuji, is a great spot to view Mount Fuji and has magnificent views during the cherry blossom season. Oshino Hakkai, in the Fuji Five Lakes features eight clear and transparent ponds known as the "Eight Ponds," as well as ancient farmhouses. The ponds are formed by the melted snow from Mount Fuji and are considered sacred waters due to their pristine quality. Admire the natural beauty, sample local cuisine, and experience rural life here. In the afternoon, we will travel to Matsumoto, with a strawberry picking experience along the way. Stay Richmond Hotels Matsumoto or similar (1 night).
DAY 6 - MATSUMOTO/GIFU REGION B,D
Explore the historic charm of Matsumoto Castle, with its elegant architecture and serene surroundings. While access to the main keep is not recommended due to steep and narrow staircases, visitors can admire the castle's impressive exterior and picturesque gardens. Afterwards, delve into the timeless beauty of Takayama Jinya and its quaint old townscape, where traditional wooden houses and narrow streets evoke a sense of nostalgia. Continue on to Gifu. Stay Okuhida Garden Hotel Yakedake or similar (1 night).
DAY 7 - GIFU REGION/KANAZAWA B,D
Today visit Shirakawago Gassho Village celebrated for its distinctive Gassho-style thatched-roof houses. These traditional farmhouses showcase steeply-pitched roofs resembling hands clasped in prayer (gassho), engineered to endure heavy snowfall. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors can indulge in the allure of rural Japan, delving into historic architecture and immersing themselves in local culture. Visit Myozenji Local Museum. Drive to Kanazawa in the afternoon.
Stay Kanazawa Kokusai Hotel or similar (2 nights).
DAY 8 - KANAZAWA B,D
Embark on a full-day exploration of Kanazawa, including visits to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and Kenrokuen Garden. At the museum, immerse yourself in contemporary art exhibitions showcasing various mediums and styles. Later wander through Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan's most renowned traditional gardens, featuring scenic landscapes and historic architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in the Gold Leaf Experience, where you can learn about and try your hand at the traditional craft of gold leaf decoration.
DAY 9 - KANAZAWA/KYOTO B,D
Drive to Kyoto in the morning and visit Ohmicho Ichiba, Tojinbo and Kasahara Sakura Park along the way. Ohmicho Ichiba is a market located in Kanazawa City, renowned for its fresh seafood and various delicacies.Tojinbo is a scenic spot located in Fukui famous for its sheer cliffs and spectacular ocean views. Kasahara Sakura Park is known for its cherry blossom trees.Stay Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo or similar (4 nights).
DAY 10 - KYOTO SIGHTSEEING B,D
Today’s sightseeing features Kinkakuji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Bamboo forest road and Hozugawa Kudari. Kinkakuji Temple is a famous temple known for its stunning golden appearance. Togetsukyo Bridge is a historic arched bridge spanning the Hozu River - one of Kyoto's significant landmarks adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms. Bamboo Forest Road is a popular spot characterised by a pathway covered with dense bamboo groves, renowned for its serene beauty and unique atmosphere. Hozugawa Kudari is a natural river landscape.
DAY 11 - KYOTO FREE DAY B
Wander the streets of fabulous Kyoto, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere and indulge in delectable local delicacies.
DAY 12 - KYOTO B,D
Explore the tranquil grounds of Kodaiji Temple and enjoy a Tea Ceremony Experience. Afterwards visit the historic district of Gion, known for its traditional charm and geisha presence, before paying a visit to the revered Yasaka Shrine.
DAY 13 - KYOTO/KOBE B,D
In the morning explore Nara Park and Todaiji Temple, renowned for its stunning scenery and the majestic Great Buddha. Afterwards, we'll indulge in a sushi-making experience, learning the art of crafting this iconic Japanese dish. In the afternoon we head to Kobe Harbourland, a modern waterfront area famous for its shopping centres. A perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and leisure.
Stay Crown Palais Kobe Hotel or similar (1 night).
DAY 14 - KOBE/HIROSHIMA B,D
In the morning, we'll embark on a journey to Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning white facade and impressive architecture. Explore the majestic castle grounds, including its intricate defensive structures and beautiful gardens. Afterwards we board the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima.
Stay Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or similar (3 nights).
DAY 15 - HIROSHIMA B,D
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, the Atomic Bomb Dome and Shukkeien. The Peace Memorial Park was established to commemorate the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and encompasses a series of monuments, sculptures, and memorials, along with beautiful gardens and ponds. The Peace Memorial Museum showcases the history and impact of the war. The Atomic Bomb Dome is one of the ruins left from war. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it symbolises a call for peace and serves as a warning against war. Then visit Shukkeien a historic Japanese garden renowned for its exquisite design and beautiful landscapes.
DAY 16 - HIROSHIMA & MIYAJIMA ISLAND DAY TRIP B,D
Miyajima is a famous destination in Japan, located on a small island. It is renowned for its iconic torii gate (O-torii), beautiful shrines (Itsukushima Shrine), picturesque natural landscapes and historic architecture. Indulge in local delicacies such as grilled abalone rice balls and specialties from the Seto Inland Sea.
DAY 17 - HIROSHIMA/TOKYO/AUCKLAND B
Fly to Haneda Airport, Tokyo and transfer to Narita International Airport by coach. Depart on NZ90 at 7.45pm, bound for Auckland.
DAY 18 - AUCKLAND
Arrive Auckland at 9.15am.
