Traverse the Japanese Alps to the cultural centres of Shirakawago, Takayama and Kanazawa on this immersive tour of Japan
From futuristic cities to sacred temples and magnificent
mountains, the Land of the Rising Sun is yours to discover on this
fascinating 13-day tour.
This exceptional journey will take you across the Japanese Alps
to immerse yourself in local culture in Takayama, Shirakawago and
Kanazawa - discovering a side of Japan that many visitors miss.
After a day spent exploring Tokyo, Japan's buzzing capital,
you'll take the bullet train to its most famous - and sacred -
natural landmark, Mount Fuji. The view from this fabled peak is an
awe-inspiring introduction to the beauty of rural Japan, including
the Fuji Five Lakes area below.
After witnessing the vibrant modernity of Tokyo, you'll have the
chance to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture with a
washi paper-making workshop, a gold leaf workshop a lesson in
making Miso seasoning, an essential element of Japanese
cooking.
Other highlights of the tour include a glimpse of Buddhist life
in Koya-San, a trip to the formidable 16th-century Matsumoto Castle
high in the Japanese Alps, and tours of the historic cities of
Takayama and Kanazawa.
Three other wonderful cities await before the end of your
adventure - Kyoto, where you'll visit the famous 'Golden Pavilion'
of Kinkakuj, Nara, where you'll meet the resident sika deer at the
Tōdai-ji temple, and finally Osaka, where you'll sail along the
Yodogawa River and have free time to discover this city's many
delightful eateries.
Throughout the trip you'll stay in a range of carefully-selected
accommodation, from slick business hotels to family-run
guesthouses, all conveniently located for your daily
adventures.
Choose to travel in autumn 2024 to admire the magnificent autumn
leaves, or spring 2025 for the stunning cherry blossom.
