Day : 1
ARRIVE OSAKA (2 NIGHTS)
Number of Days : 1
The pulsating cityscape of Osaka sets the pace for your soulful sojourn through some of Japan's most cherished landmarks. On arrival, you'll be transferred by pre-booked airport shuttle service to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing before meeting your Travel Director and fellow guests for a Welcome Reception drink with appetisers.
Day : 2
OSAKA
Number of Days : 1
Celebrate old and new on your city tour that begins at Osaka Castle, which played a major role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century. Regarded as the symbol of the city, Osaka Castle was rebuilt in 1931 and provides a magnificent backdrop for cherry blossom viewing during the springtime. Touch the clouds during your visit to the Abeno Harukas Observatory in Japan's tallest skyscraper at 300 metres. Admire the panoramic views of Osaka from its glass-lined observation deck, then enjoy some retail therapy in downtown Umeda before an afternoon at leisure or perhaps one of Trafalgar's recommended Optional Experiences.
Day : 3
OSAKA - MT. KOYA - SHIRAHAMA
Number of Days : 1
Immerse yourself in Japan's spiritual splendour, starting your day with a trip to the UNESCO-listed Mt. Koya, where the Shingon Buddism sect was introduced in 805 by Kobo Daishi. Visit the Kongobunji Temple with its elegantly painted sliding doors, the Danjo Garan Temple and granite Banryu-tei - its dragons rising boldly up from the clouds to protect their sanctuary. 'Dive into Culture' and indulge in a Japanese-style vegetarian lunch at a traditional shukubo (monastery inn), served by local monks. Then, continue to Okunoin, Japan's largest cemetery and the site of Kobo Daishi's mausoleum, set in an enchanted forest of towering ancient cedar trees. Your final stop today is the Pacific resort town of Shirahama where you'll enjoy dinner at an authentic Japanese izakaya.
Day : 4
SHIRAHAMA - KUMANO - SHIMA (2 Nights)
Number of Days : 1
Tread in the footsteps of pilgrims today as you discover the UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route. Ascend Daimonzaka Hill on foot or by coach to admire the Nachi Taisha Shrine, Seiganotoji Temple and impressive Nachi waterfall, the tallest in Japan. Continue your journey to Hayatama Taisha, an important place of worship since the 3rd century and home to a small museum with an impressive collection of national treasures. Arriving in Shima, you'll check in to your hotel.
Day : 5
SHIMA - ISE - SHIMA
Number of Days : 1
A leisurely start to the morning will see you travel to the traditional town of Ise to visit the Ise Jingu Shrine, which is rebuilt from scratch every 20 years according to ancient Shinto tradition. Later, meet the white-clad Ama free divers, made famous in the James Bond movie 'You Only Live Twice'. These brave women dive into the sea without any diving equipment to catch fresh seafood, which you will have an opportunity to enjoy later while listening to their captivating stories. Your next stop is Mikimoto Pearl Island, where pearls were first successfully cultured, before boarding a Sunset Cruise around Agowan Bay, followed by dinner.
Day : 6
SHIMA - IGA - NABARI - KYOTO (3 NIGHTS)
Number of Days : 1
Don't get caught in the trapdoors and secret passages of Iga's Ninja Museum, dedicated to the history of ninja and ninjutsu, an original form of warfare developed in the region. Try your hand at age-old ninja techniques and see the collection of ancient ninjutsu writings before continuing to the 16th century Ueno Castle which served as the seat of the local lords during the Edo Period. 'Connect with Locals' next, enjoying a Be My Guest lunch with a local family and gain insights into the history and traditions of the region. After lunch, travel to the cultural capital of Kyoto for your overnight stay.
Day : 7
KYOTO
Number of Days : 1
Indulge in a late start this morning followed by a visit to Arashiyama where you'll embark on a leisurely walk through its towering Bamboo groves unlike any other forest in the world. Connect with nature in the Zen gardens of Tenryuji Temple and admire magnificent mountain views before a lunch of okonomiyaki, a savoury grilled pancake made with egg, cabbage, soba noodles and meat, seafood or cheese. Your next stop is the UNESCO-listed Kinkakuji Temple, whose Golden Pavillion seems to rise up from the adjoining pond. The delicate flavours of tea are yours to enjoy next, during a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony in a Machiya townhouse before returning to your hotel.
Day : 8
KYOTO
Number of Days : 1
Soothe heart and mind during your morning visit to Shorinji Temple, joining a Zen master for his Zazen practice surrounded by the tranquil temple grounds. Continue to Sanjusangendo Hall next, admiring its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, before returning to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Consider joining one of Trafalgar's recommended Optional Experiences or revel in the freedom to explore Kyoto's soul-stirring surrounds. Our spiritual encounter with Japan at its end, enjoy a Farewell Dinner and Geisha show with your fellow companions and Travel Director at a local restaurant.
Day : 9
KYOTO - TOKYO (3 NIGHTS)
Number of Days : 1
Leave ancient Japan behind for the modern cityscape of Tokyo, travelling to the capital by high-speed bullet train. On arrival, transfer to a local restaurant and join your 'Local Specialist' for a cooking class where you'll learn to make Soba Noodles - a thin wheat flour noodle which features prominently in Japanese cuisine. Later, drive through Akihabara which began its life after WWII as a black market for radio parts and has evolved into a computer wonderland. This evening, consider joining your Travel Director for an orientation walk around Shinjuku, a large entertainment, business and shopping area close to the hotel.
Day : 10
TOKYO SIGHTSEEING
Number of Days : 1
The first stop on your City Tour this morning will see you ascend to the observation deck in Tokyo Tower, once the tallest building in Tokyo. Next, you'll stop at the Imperial Palace Plaza, a large park area in the centre of Tokyo from where the two bridges that form the entrance to the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace can be viewed. Continue to the old-time entertainment centre of Asakusa and visit the colourful SensÅ-ji Buddhist temple, which has been rebuilt countless times since it was founded in 628, making it Tokyo's oldest temple site. Stroll down Nakamise, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of shitamachi (downtown Tokyo). Your final stop for the day is Ginza, where you'll have some free time for lunch and some last-minute shopping.
Day : 11
MT. FUJI
Number of Days : 1
Journey to the Five Lakes District, towards the UNESCO-listed Mt. Fuji which dominates the surrounding landscape. At 3,776 metres, it is Japan's highest mountain and most recognisable icon. Ascend by road to 2,300 metres at the 5th Station before taking a ride on the Kachikachiyama Ropeway (both weather permitting) up Mt. Tenjo for jaw-dropping views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. Enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure.
Day : 12
DEPART TOKYO
Number of Days : 1
Your soul-stirring journey through Japan at its end, say sayonara to newfound friends and take a transfer by airport shuttle service to Tokyo Narita or Haneda International Airport for your onward flight.
