Ancient & Modern Japan Discovery Holiday

For expert advice or to book call: 0845 863 9600

Exploring the varied attractions of this vibrant and traditional nation: Zen gardens, grand mountains and big cities

Tokyo at night from high in a skyscraper

Ancient wooden temples, raked-pebble Zen gardens and chanting Buddhist monks juxtapose with space-age towers, neon and bullet trains; Japan's fascinating blend of old and new is legendary.

Exploring the southern and western stretches of Honshu, Japan's largest island, we will see little evidence of the devastating impact of 2011's earthquake and resulting tsunami.

We discover its unique culture amongst the serene shrines and gardens of Nara and Kyoto and the rarely visited mountainous heartland of castles and spas. Our last stop is Tokyo: sprawling, inimitably busy, welcoming and extraordinary.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: Japan

Day 1

Depart London.

Day 2

Arrive Kansai; transfer to Kyoto, an atmospheric city set amid beautiful hills.

Day 3

City tour including Zen gardens.

Day 4

Day trip to Nara, ancient capital of Japan.

Day 5

Free in Kyoto to explore shrines and temples.

Day 6

Day trip to Hiroshima; visit Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima.

Day 7

Kyoto to Takayama; afternoon sightseeing.

Day 8

Free in Takayama, amid the 'Japanese Alps', famed for its morning market and traditional architecture.

Day 9

Train to Matsumoto via mediaeval village of Tsumago; afternoon sightseeing in a town noted for its 15th century Black Castle.

Day 10

Travel by train to spa town of Yudanaka; explore the mountainous countryside and soak in a hot spring.

Day 11

See the famous Snow Monkeys before travelling by train to Tokyo.

Day 12

Optional trip to Nikko or Mount Fuji.

Day 13

A full day city tour of Tokyo including the Senso-ji Temple.

Day 14

Free in Tokyo.

Day 15

Fly to the UK.

Day 16

Arrive London.

Want to see more?

Trip Notes contain all the detailed information you need. A full day by day itinerary, accommodation details, guides and other practical information. Download Now

Then Check Availability and Book Online

Images from ANCIENT & MODERN JAPAN

Note: Click on a thumbnail to enlarge.

Snow Monkey, Jigokudani Hot Springs, Yudanaka

Japanese Maiko woman in traditional dress

Snow Monkey, Jigokudani Hot Springs, Yudanaka

Find Your Adventure

Your Next Steps

Download trip notes

Need some help?
Speak to one of our travel consultants:

0845 863 9600

Please note: calls may be recorded for training.

We are open:
Mon to Thu: 9am - 8pm
Fri: 9am - 7pm
Sat: 9am - 4pm
Change settings to UK?

Privacy Statement
Booking Terms & Conditions

Get your own group of friends, family or colleagues together and book a Private Group Departure.

Average Review Rating:
based on 18 reviews.

We enjoyed every minute of it. It combined a wealth of opportunites to get closer to an understanding of the…

Robert Salmon
Read in full
It is safe to say that this trip has changed my life. Our group was very lucky; we had an…

Victoria Perry
Read in full
An incedible journey giving a diverse insight into the truly fascinating culture of an amazing country. I have never taken so…

Gregory Tebble
Read in full