AN EXAMPLE TOUR OF JAPAN
For a holiday filled with culture and history, breathtaking views and mouthwatering cuisine, look no further than Japan. Visit the iconic Mount Fuji, experience the colours of Tokyo and relish the quiet and serenity of the tranquil mountain towns. There is so much to see and explore.
The below is just a taster, let our experts tailor make the perfect holiday to Japan. Read on to find out more.
VISIT: Tokyo – Day 1 to 4
Famous for it’s bright lights, Shibuya Crossing and skyscrapers – Japan’s capital city lives up to every expectation and then some. Everything here is bigger and brighter, enjoy the neon signs of Akihabara or take in the city’s skyline from the observation deck of the Tokyo Skytree. If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet the explore the peaceful paths of Meiji Shrine or explore Asakusa, which houses the ancient Sensoji Temple.
Complete your day with a Japanese culinary delight, from Michelin-starred restaurants to local ramen shops and don’t miss Toyosu, the world’s largest seafood market.
STAY: K5 Hotel
Tucked away in a historic bank building in Nihonbashi, The K5 Hotel is a sanctuary of understated elegance and urban cool. This modern hotel mixes design forward interiors with a laid-back ambiance whilst complementing the heritage of the historic building.
EXPLORE: Takayama – Day 4 to 6
Takayama is a quaint and tranquil town hidden away in the mountainous Hida region and well known for its authentic architecture. The Sanmachi Suji district is a living museum of Edo-period merchant houses, sake breweries and craft shops. Takayama Jinya, the city’s historic government house, is a splendid example of traditional Japanese architecture. Just outside of the city you can enjoy the idyllic landscape and rugged peaks of the Northern Alps as well as the Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village.
STAY: Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan
Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan is a high-quality relaxing space, nestled in the old town of Hida Takayama, where you can enjoy local delicacies such as the Hida beef and Takayama Ramen. The hotel features classical interiors, carefully prepared hot springs and authentic Japanese cuisine cooked with locally sourced ingredients. Here you can truly immerse yourself in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
DISCOVER: Kanazawa – Day 6 to 8
The beautiful city of Kanazawa is the epitome of Japanese culture and tradition. Nicknamed the “Little Kyoto”, one of its most iconic attractions is Kenroku-en, one of the ‘Three Great Gardens of Japan’, which blooms with cherry blossom in spring and is a snowy work of art in the winter. A vibrant city, with its bustling Omicho Market, charming tea house district of Higashi Chaya and the impressive Kanazawa Castle, there is plenty to see and do.
It’s also a great city to discover historical artistic techniques such as gold leaf making, Kutani porcelain and Kaga-yuzen silk dyeing.
STAY: Hyatt Centric Kanazawa
This stylish and modern hotel is the perfect spot in which to explore the beauty, authentic art, shops, restaurants and culture of Kanazawa. Take in the scenic vistas from the open-air rooftop bar, the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail and a light bite. It’s the ideal location to explore this historical city; renowned for its geisha and samurai districts as well as wonderful cuisine.
EXPERIENCE: Kyoto – Day 8 to 12
Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan, defined by age old traditions with more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines through the city, including UNESCO World Heritage sites like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion). Don’t miss the scarlet gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine and the charming teahouses of Gion. For a modern perspective of the city visit the bustling markets, world-class museums, and restaurants serving kaiseki – Japan’s multi-course haute cuisine.
And if you’re looking some quiet and well-earned R&R, then spend some time amongst the hushed, towering bamboo groves of Arashiyama.
STAY: Ace Hotel Kyoto
Set within a building designed by legendary architect Kengo Kuma and woven into the city’s rich fabric is The Ace Hotel. It’s a creative hub, a fusion of historic and modern interiors located in the heart of the cultural district. Enjoy top notch dining at one of the three distinct restaurants or sample cocktails on the rooftop bar, you can even cozy up under electric blankets in the winter.
EXPLORE: Hakone & Mount Fuji – Day 12 to 13
Mount Fuji is the tallest peak in Japan, majestic, misty and famous throughout the world. It’s an active stratovolcano, that’s covered in snow for 5 months of the year and is the inspiration for poems, paintings and works of art. If you’re looking for some action, then a guided climb is exciting and challenging and well worth the reward.
Sitting in its shadow is Hakone, popular for it’s steaming onsen (hot springs) and charming ryokans.
Cruise the waters of Lake Ashi and take in the incredible views, ride the Hakone Ropeway into the mountains, visit the open-air museum and explore the ancient Hakone Shrine with its ‘floating’ torii gates which are cultural treasures amidst the natural splendour.
STAY: Tensui Saryo
At Tensui Saryo guests are invited to enjoy Japanese luxury living with breathtaking views of Mt. Myojogatake. The rooms are designed in typical Japanese style and some even come with a private open-air hot spring bath. Enjoy kaiseki cuisine in the hotel restaurant, traditional crafts, and two types of skin-beautifying hot springs. If you’re looking for a more unique experience, the Footbath café & bar, where you can enjoy a drink whilst you soak your feet, should definitely not be missed.