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Escorted Group Tours
Essence of Japan
Including flight
17 excursions and visits
1 day - free time
Ancient and ultra-modern stand side by side in Japan. On this two-week itinerary, discover both – moving from high-energy cities to tranquil shrines, temples, and exquisitely tended gardens. Along the way, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, gain insight into geisha and samurai culture, hope for a clear view of Mount Fuji, and glide between destinations aboard the sleek Shinkansen bullet train. This escorted tour includes direct flights and operates in spring, summer and autumn, highlighting the country’s stunning seasonal changes. There are also selected departures timed for the Takayama Festival, one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional festivals; dates that coincide with the Gion Festival, with an extra night in Kyoto (tour code TTJPS); and dates where you can enjoy an extra night in Tokyo with tickets to a Sumo Wrestling tournament (tour code TTJPW).
Included excursions
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Samurai history at Matsumoto
1 / 8
Set in a lush valley, climb to the top of Japan's oldest wooden castle Matsumoto, and be rewarded with views across the Japanese Alps. Learn about the distinct black-and-white three-turreted donjon and why so many samurai lords ruled over it. Plus take time to wander its serene gardens.
Kanpai! Sake tasting
1 / 8
Do you know your Junmai from your Honjozo? We'll head to a traditional brewery and sample some sake, and learn more about how Japan's famous alcoholic beverage is expertly made.
Explore serene Kenroku-en
1 / 8
If you were to ever create your own Japanese garden, then Kenroku-en would be the one to copy. One of the three greatest gardens in Japan, each season tells a different story across its striking landscapes and water features. Stroll under blossom trees and over ornate bridges and see if you can spot the six elements that make this the perfect garden.
A time for reflection in Hiroshima
1 / 8
After taking a ferry across to Miyajima Island, we'll reach the scarlet Great Torii Gate – the gateway to the Itsukushima Shrine. Time to get your cameras ready as we explore this unique setting and UNESCO Heritage site. Afterwards, we also spend time reflecting on Japan's devastating past at Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park.
Travel at the speed of light
1 / 8
No trip to Japan would be complete without a ride (or two) on its Shinkansen train. Sit back, tuck into a bento box, and speed like a bullet from one Japanese city to another, while you whizz past miles upon miles of sweeping countryside.
Experience Kawadoko
1 / 8
Feel the breeze as we sit down to a traditional Kawadoko dining experience, where restaurants along the Kamo River are set up on raised platforms. A Maiko (apprentice geisha) will also make an appearance. (Please note, this excursion is only available on our Gion Festival departures in the summer.)
Time for Japanese tea
1 / 8
A lesson in graceful etiquette, we'll take part in a traditional tea ceremony known as chanoyu. Watch as our tea master carefully prepares matcha green tea and serves it to us in a peaceful setting.
Riding sky high at Hakone
1 / 8
We'll soak in the lovely scenery of Hakone around Mt. Fuji, sail the waters of Lake Ashi where we'll spot snow-dusted peaks and then take a soaring cable car up to the Owakudani Valley and Hot Springs.
Itinerary
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Important information
§Travel insurance is underwritten by Astrenska Insurance Limited, subject to medical screening. A price reduction will be applied if the included travel insurance is not required. Pre-departure cancellation cover (cancellation rights) is provided by Saga and is only available when taking out the included insurance. Read more