Luxury Japan Active Explorer (Nakasendo & Koyasan) 14D13N, Partially Guided

Upon arrival to Tokyo's airport, be greeted by our local representative and assisted with transport to Peninsula Tokyo via private vehicle.

After the check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure.

Your accommodation tonight is The Peninsula Tokyo, located opposite to the Imperial Palace, Hibiya Park in Marunouchi district and shopping capital of Ginza. Well-appointed rooms and plush carpets that are at the height of luxury, the rooms are styled in elegant and soothing soft greys and an earthy colour scheme.

Room Style: Western Style

Bed Type: King/Twin shared

Toilet: Ensuite Western style

NOTE: Other luxurious accommodation in Tokyo such as Aman Tokyo, Hoshino Tokyo, Janu, Four Seasons Tokyo At Otemachi etc can also be arranged to suit your requirements. Please contact us for tailor-made itinerary. 

Enjoy a full day city tour of Tokyo with a small group led by an expert local guide (Private tour is available at additional cost.)

Among the stops of the day will be Asakusa, part of Tokyo's shitamachi (old town), which is both the city’s oldest Geisha district and is also home to Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple.

Afterwards, pay a visit to Meiji Shrine, Tokyo’s most famous shrine, taking part in a traditional Shinto purification dance and receiving a blessing from a Shinto Priest. While cruising around these iconic quarters of Japan, take note of the passing Ginza area, Imperial Palace and Shibuya ‘scramble’ crossing.

The itinerary is entirely flexible and can be altered to accommodate any other sites within the city. Total Duration: 8 hours

Self-guided day.

Enjoy a free day to explore Tokyo. We have a large range of tours and unique experiences to choose from. Please contact us if you would like us to arrange a tour for you for today's itinerary. Additional cost applies.

Suggested Tours/Experiences

1. Samurai Sword Lesson
Take a closer look at one of Japan's cultural legacies: the art of samurai sword fighting. Meet with some of Japan’s leading experts for an interactive workshop. Learn about the samurai fighters and their role in Japan’s military history. Then learn how to swing the sword, using a combination of movements to gracefully manoeuvre the blade. Duration: 1.5 h

2. Cool Tokyo Cycling
Cycle through the vibrant backstreets, local shotengai (small commercial streets) in hip neighbourhoods such as Shimo-Kitazawa, and some little-known parks, seeing the guide’s favourite areas and shops, and stopping for a break at a charming café. Duration: 3-4 h. Journey: 10 km (mostly cycling, a bit of walking and light sightseeing also involved).

3. Mt Fuji Hike (July - September only)
Enjoy a full day excursion to Mt Fuji and climb the legendary mountain with a local guide via Ochudo Trail or Fujinomiya Trail.

4. Japan Whisky Adventure
Join a whisky expert and experience a range of whiskies from hidden gems produced by microdistilleries to more recognised brands. Starting in a high-rise bar in downtown Tokyo, and then moving on to the next distinguished establishment, experiencing microdistillery whisky tasting, and followed by a final tipple in a classy basement bar – aficionados and novices alike are sure to enjoy a wonderful evening and a true journey of discovery of the senses. Tour Starts: 16:45. Duration: approx. 4h

The short bullet train ride from Tokyo to Nagoya is then followed by the scenic journey on the limited express train Wide View. Upon arrival at Kiso-Fukushima Station, a shuttle will take guests for the check-in into the ryokan.

Start the journey in the afternoon through Nakasendo in Kiso Valley, one of the five routes that branched off the former capital of Japan.

The Kiso Valley is located in Nagano Prefecture, and runs alongside the mountains of the Central Alps. An ancient 70-km trade route called the Kisoji was developed along the valley and served as a very important means of commerce in the area.

Tonight, experience a stay in a ryokan, the traditional Japanese-style inn furnished with low tables and chairs, sliding shoji doors, and tatami flooring. It is located in a pristine area of the Kiso Valley, this beautiful ryokan is a haven for all those wishing to spend time in a more secluded setting with spectacular natural surroundings on all sides.

Note: Luggage transfer is recommended to be arranged from Tokyo to Kyoto (must be booked in advance; supplementary charges apply). In this case, guests must prepare an overnight bag for the nights in Kiso-Fukushima.

Room Style: Japanese Style

Bed Type: Futon

Bath: Private onsen

Toilet: Ensuite Western style

Walking distance: approx. 8 km, 3 hours

Leave the accommodation in the morning after a Japanese-style breakfast, embark on a private car to Magome, the start of the Nakasendo Trail. Today's walk will alternate between well preserved old towns, fields of local farmers and peaceful woodlands.

Upon arrival at Magome, take some time to refresh yourself before walking the 8km stretch from Magome to Tsumago today. The trail that runs from Magome to Tsumago is perhaps the most popular section of Nakasendo. The trail is a little steep at first, but it evens out quickly and the rest slopes away gently down to Tsumago. There are plenty of rest stops and toilets along the way (some even with free WiFi!) As you make your way through the forest, you'll be treated to cascading waterfalls and beautiful mountain vistas peeking through the trees.

Walk to Tsumago, one of the post towns that flourished in the Edo Period. Tsumago is now a Nationally Designated Architectural Preservation Site, thanks to the collective effort of its locals to preserve most of the remaining historical buildings.

After concluding the trail, a private transfer will head back to the ryokan in Kiso-Fukushima. Upon arrival, enjoy a nice soak in the onsen before a plentiful dinner.

Walking distance: approx. 6.3 km, 3.5 hours

After an early breakfast. Afterwards, catch the local train to Yabuhara, the starting point of the nature and ancient trail between Yabuhara-juku and Narai-juku, which used to be the most dangerous path in Nakasendo.

Take a walk from on the ancient trail between Yabuhara-juku and Narai-juku (the Torii pass to Narai). After about 3 hours, emerge in the old post town of Narai, also referred to as the "Narai of a Thousand Houses" for the many well-restored old buildings that now serve either as souvenir shops or as local restaurants. You can also find many restaurants in Narai that serve local delicacies such as gohei-mochi (sticky-rice cakes) and soba (buckwheat noodles).

From Narai Station, catch the local train to Kyoto, home to around 2,000 shrines and temples, 17 of which are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, private transfer to hotel.

Optional Evening Tour : A Taste of Gion Food Tour (Additional Cost Applies)
Kyoto's Gion district is often cited as many a visitor’s favourite part of the city. The historic cobblestone streets are lined with traditional, narrow wooden buildings known as machiya, teahouses known as ochaya, and traditional shops selling local specialities. Enjoy a drink and delicious local bar food as a prelude to the rest of the tour. After this, take a leisurely stroll around Gion. Then, head to a cozy restaurant owned by a charming and amiable woman from Kyoto who prepares each meal herself. Enjoy an entertaining conversation with her, while sampling each dish, which is prepared with the utmost care and attention, using the finest seasonal ingredients. The final stop of the tour is a sake bar with a location so clandestine even locals struggle to find it. Partake in different varieties of sake, chosen to complement the selection of nibbles. Tour Starts: 17:00. Duration: approx. 3h

Your accommodation The Four Seasons Kyoto is a luxurious hotel with an 800-year-old pond garden at its heart. The guest rooms/suites blend refined, modern aesthetics with traditional Japanese craftsmanship, showcasing the work of Japanese artisans.

Room Style: Western Style

Bed Type: King/Twin shared

Bath: Ensuite bath

Toilet: Ensuite Western style

Cycling approx. 20km. 8 hours tour duration.

Embark on an active day tour of Japan’s cultural capital, joining a local guide for this Kyoto by bike experience. Hop on the bikes and pedal a short distance to Nishi Hongan-ji Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in the city.

Then cycle to Nijo Castle, one of Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Take a tour through this massive compound, stopping to admire its intricately painted sliding doors and unusual ‘chirping’ floors. Learn about the history of the castle and the symbolic meaning of its architecture.

Take a break for a quick lunch before returning to the bikes for a ride to Kinkaku-ji Temple. This beautiful structure was built as a retirement village of a shogun but, after his death, was converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The top two floors are covered in gold leaf, creating a resplendent image that is reflected in the temple’s tranquil pond.

Adjacent to Kinkaku-ji is another Zen Buddhist temple called Ryoan-ji. Ryoan-ji is home to one of Japan's most famous rock gardens. Gaze upon this tranquil site while the guide explains the various legends associated with its origin.

Return to the bikes for one last visit. Pedal to scenic Arashiyama, an area famous for its bamboo forest, massive temples and vibrant alleyways. Spend time exploring this colourful neighbourhood before returning to central Kyoto where the tour concludes.

Walking distance: approx. 8 km, 3 hours

Get the blood pumping with a scenic and spiritual hike near Nara. Meet with a local guide for a short walk to the hills. Cross through Nara’s Tenri Hondori arcade, a massive shopping area housing more than 200 shopfronts and cafés. Continue to walk away from town, passing by the impressive Tenri-kyo Shinto-sect church along the way to the trail.

The rest of the day’s trek is along Yamanobe-no-michi, a section of the road that once linked Nara to Tokyo. Referred to as Japan's oldest road, the trail features dozens of historic shrines and ruins.

Two of the highlights of the trail are Chogaku-ji Temple and Omiwa Shrine. At Chogaku-ji, stop to admire the Buddhist temple’s beautiful surroundings. Depending on the season this may be cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, maple leaves or other colourful flowers and foliage. Omiwa Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, is a fabulous place to learn about Shinto culture. Discover why it is referred to by locals as Japan’s first shrine and how it served as a sacred ground for various philosophical religious groups.

After the tour, an escort will be provided back to the hotel in Kyoto.

Experience untouched Japan on this authentic half-day guided cycling tour along the shores of Lake Biwa. Hop on electric bikes and begin the journey through the peaceful, small streets along Lake Biwa, cruising through ancient villages.

Follow the guide through the countryside to terraced rice fields. Meet some farmers and help them with their seasonal farming activities, such as planting, or harvesting rice, fruits or vegetables. Talk to the farmers and learn about life in the local farming communities of rural Japan.

Get back in the saddle and follow the guide to a local family home to assist the hostess in cooking some authentic chicken sukiyaki. The dish is prepared using the local rice and home-grown vegetables. Try some of the region’s specialties, such as pickled sour plums, that were prepared by the hostess herself. Interact with the hosts and experience life and the warm hospitality of a rural Japanese household.

After this truly unique lunch, cycle back to JR Shiga station. Enjoy the gentle breeze blowing from the lake and the varied landscape with the Hira mountain range in the background.

Once back at the station, return the bicycles and bid farewell to the guide. At the end of the day, reflect on the unique experience during a scenic train journey back to Kyoto.

Afterwards, head back to Kyoto and enjoy one last night in the ancient capital.

Optional Evening Tour: Kaiseki Dinner with a Maiko (Additional Cost Applies)
One of the many unique aspects of Japanese culture is its Geisha. With more than 200 years of history, exploring the world of Geisha can be fascinating. This afternoon with a local guide, explore on foot the streets of Gion, also known as Kyoto’s Geisha district. After the tour, enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner in the company of a Maiko. Have the rare opportunity to interact with the hostess and ask questions about her craft and daily life. During the dinner, the Maiko performs traditional dances and invite guests in playing Japanese drinking games. Duration: 4.5h

Note: The Lake Biwa cycling and farm family visit is only available from April to November. The itinerary will be substituted with other walking/cycling activities for other months.

Self-guided day.

This morning is at leisure until the departure for Hiroshima. After the long train journey, it's time to check into the hotel and rest or start exploring this amazing city.

Optional Tour: Hiroshima History by Bike (Additional Cost Applies)
Join the local guide where all the necessary cycling equipment will be provided. This cycling tour focuses on the city's rich historical heritage. Start with the main monument and main attraction in Hiroshima, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial - also known as the A-bomb Dome. Formerly the Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel, this building was the only one to remain standing in the wake of the bomb blast. It serves as a stark reminder of the devastation of war. Then, proceed to the Peace Memorial Park. Constructed near the hypocentre of the nuclear bomb detonation site, this 120,000 square metre park commemorates the victims and stands in hope of a peaceful world. See the neighbouring Peace Memorial Museum, which showcases the history of Hiroshima before WWII, and the efforts of Japan to promote peace in the subsequent years after the end of the war. Then, head to Higashisenda Park to see the remains of a stone building that endured the blast of the explosion. Lunch can either be enjoyed in the park on a fine day, or in a restaurant nearby. Once done with the meal, cycle to Miyuki Bridge, located in the suburbs of Hiroshima. It displays a picture taken on the bridge just 3 hours after the explosion, where survivors of the bomb gathered to get assistance from a nearby police station. After this, go to the former Hiroshima Army Clothing Depot, a building that withstood the explosion largely unscathed, and which served as a relief station for the survivors to get medical treatment. An iron door that was distorted by the A-bomb blast can be found on the premises. At the end of the tour, head back to the initial meeting point with the guide, by cycling along the Peace Boulevard and Kyobashi Bridge. After dropping off the bicycle, either go back to the accommodation or keep exploring Hiroshima for the rest of the day. Distance and journey time: approx. 15 km, 3 hours (round trip)

You will stay at Sheraton Grand Hiroshima, a luxury hotel perfect for travellers arriving in Hiroshima by shinkansen bullet train. It offers stylish, elegant rooms and an international atmosphere, with the highest level of accommodation in town.

Room Style: Western Style

Bed Type: King/Twin shared

Toilet: Ensuite Western style

This morning, start the journey to Miyajima Island, a small sacred island located in the Seto Inland Sea.

First head to Maezora Station and walk to the kayak center. Meet the instructor on the shores of mainland Hiroshima for a 30 minutes introductory lesson. Learn how to navigate the kayak and get valuable tips about paddling techniques.

Then set off for a paddle across the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy the views of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island, appreciating the peacefulness of the waters between the shores. Paddle out to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Itsukushima Shrine, watching as the details of its impressive torii gate begin to appear as the kayak approaches. Admire the vermilion gate up close, enjoying a different point of view from what most tourists get to see.

Continue around the shoreline of Miyajima, seeing its charming old town with towering Mt. Misen in the background. Find a quiet stretch of beach and go ashore for a short break before paddling back to the meeting point. Say farewell to the instructor and journey back to Hiroshima for a well-deserved rest.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

This morning, get up early and head to the next destination. Home to over 100 temples, Koyasan has been the center of Shingon Buddhism, an important Buddhist sect, for over 1,200 years. Koyasan, and its vicinity, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

The journey to Koyasan is one of the highlights of the visit, with the final ascent being on a cable car, which offers one of the most scenic journeys in Japan, as it winds its way up to the mountains.

Meet the guide at Koyasan Station and spend the afternoon exploring a couple of popular sites that give an insight to Japanese Buddhism.

Visit Kongobu-ji, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism and home to Japan’s largest rock garden. On rare occasions, guests might witness a small group of worshippers led by a monk chanting some scripts in front of the temple.

Continue on to Okuno-in, Japan’s largest cemetery that holds the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. The classic approach starts from Ichinohashi Bridge and stretches up to 2 km, filled with more than 200,000 tombstones that belong to feudal lords, prominent monks, and even well-known Japanese companies. Gokusho Offering Hall, Torodo Hall of Lanterns, and Kobo Daishi's Mausoleum are located at the end of the trail.

Afterwards, you will be escorted to Soji-in (temple lodge). This luxurious temple lodging offers insight into the traditional life of the local Buddhist monks of the mountaintop temple town of Koyasan. The delightful traditional Japanese rooms, some of which equipped with private bathrooms are perfect for anyone looking to experience Japanese tradition without renouncing creature comforts.

During the temple stay, you will have the chance to savour that delectable Buddhist cuisine known as shojin ryori. This sophisticated and traditional dining style, pioneered by Zen Buddhist monks in Japan, is prepared with the utmost care and artistry, using the freshest, most seasonal ingredients. Shojin ryori follows the principles of the Zen Buddhist tradition, and can thus be enjoyed by everyone.

Room Style: Japanese Style

Bed Type: Futon

Toilet: Ensuite Western style

To have a complete experience of Koyasan, joining the Morning Prayer, which usually starts at 6:00 am, is highly recommended. Be immersed in the calming chants of the monks inside the prayer hall (prayers are only in Japanese but some priests provide a simple explanation in English at the end of the ceremony).

Afterwards, proceed to the dining room for a shojin ryori breakfast.

Travel by train to Osaka for a last night, Japan's culinary capital. Osaka’s flamboyance, fun-loving people, and amazing food make up for what it lacks in tourist attractions.

Optional Tour: Flavours of Osaka (Additional Cost Applies)
Today's tour begins at 4:45 pm. Osaka is an epicurean's delight. Indeed, the motto that the city's exuberant inhabitants live by is Kuiadore - "to eat oneself bankrupt." The first stop will be at a street food stall to get a taste of some traditional Japanese snack food, menchi katsu. Menchi katsu is a breaded and deep-fried patty made of ground meat. Golden and crisp, this is a local favourite. Next, head to a standing bar to enjoy the ambience and taste a selection of sake and Japanese wine, along with delicious house specialities. Then, head to a restaurant specialising in wagyu beef dishes. Often referred to as the most expensive beef in the world, wagyu beef is of a superb quality, and is on many a gourmet’s wish list. Enjoy the melt-in-the-mouth textures with a refreshing cocktail. The final stop will be to try a new style of tempura in an eatery tucked away in a small alleyway. Old favourites such as shrimp tempura, and more experimental combinations such as asparagus tempura and cheese can be found on the menu. Bid farewell to the affable guide, and either return to the hotel or go for a stroll around the neighbourhood to take in the sights. Tour starts at 4:45 pm, approx. 3.5 hours duration

You check into the French style luxury accommodation The St. Regis Osaka, located in the heart of Midosuji, Osaka's upscale district and most coveted address. Indeed, the neighbourhood is known as the Champs Elysées of Osaka and features exclusive boutique shopping areas. Rooms and suites are elegant, tastefully designed and beautifully-appointed, and feature French marble bathrooms and rainfall showers that provide a perfect setting for guests to luxuriate in.

Room Style: Western Style

Bed Type: King/Twin shared

Toilet: Ensuite Western style

The rest of the day is free for leisure. Enjoy a private transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX) to meet your departing flight.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.