Jewels of Japan

Overview

Jewels of Japan

Explore the unique and fascinating culture of Japan as you visit futuristic cities, imperial buildings and magnificent nature. Be captivated by the unique culture of Japan as you discover lively Tokyo, beautiful Mt Fuji and historic Kyoto. A visit to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial and the holy island of Miyajima complete this fascinating tour. With a city tour of Tokyo, a visit to the iconic Mount Fuji and even the forward thinking city of Hiroshima, you'll really get to experience all aspects of Japan.

What's Included

International flights and current taxes
Domestic Transportation
Accommodation
All Meals
Touring guides & entrance fees

Full Itinerary

Day 1 & 2 - Tokyo

Fly overnight to the dazzling metropolis of Tokyo, Japan's capital city. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day 3 - Tokyo

Begin today with a stroll through the Imperial Palace East Garden and then take time to explore the Edo-Tokyo Museum to learn about Tokyo’s historical heritage. After lunch, seek out the tranquillity at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa district, followed by a visit to the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree for panoramic views over the sprawling city below.

Day 4 - Meiji Shrine

Start the day with a relaxing wander around the classical landscapes of the Hamarikyu Garden. Continue to the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, before driving past the famous Shibuya Crossing. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore as you wish. End the day with a dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay and witness the city lit up at night.

Day 5 - Fuji Five Lakes

A journey through the foothills of the iconic Mt Fuji brings you to the Fuji Five Lakes. With calm waters of the five lakes and a peaceful atmosphere, its hard to imagine they were formed by volcanic eruptions.

Next you'll try your hand at making traditional Japanese soba noodles, before you get to enjoy your creations for lunch. Continuing on, you'll head to Oshino Hakkai, a scenic area of ponds or crystal clear spring water, created by Mt Fuji's melting snow.

Day 6 - Bullet train to Kyoto

Start the day with a visit to Oshino Hakkai before learning how to make your very own traditional Japanese soba noodles which you will then tuck into for lunch! Later, transfer to Mishima station and journey on the bullet train to Kyoto. An enchanting city, Kyoto was capital for 1,000 years; today it is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens.

Day 7 - Explore Kyoto

Enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto starting with a visit to one of Kyoto’s delightful temples – the 17th-century Buddhist Kiyomizu. Immerse yourself in the culture by experiencing the ritual of the sacred tea ceremony and try your hand at the art of origami. Also meet with either a maiko (apprentice geisha) or geisha and learn about their way of life and culture before exploring the impressive Fushimi Inari Shrine with its remarkable 10,000 red torii gates.

Day 8 - Journey to Hiroshima

Begin the day with a visit to Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous zen garden and the famous Kinkakuji Temple, known as the ‘Golden Pavilion’. Continue to Osaka, arriving in time for lunch in the vibrant Dotonbori district. Later, travel by bullet train to Hiroshima. A city that needs no introduction, Hiroshima today is vibrant and modern with a forward thinking, sunny outlook.

Day 9 - Hiroshima and Miyajima

Hop on the ferry to the holy island of Miyajima and visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most recognisable, rising majestically out of the waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy some free time and take an optional ride on the cable car up Mount Misen to enjoy the panoramic views. Return to Hiroshima and take a moment to reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, paying homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb and also visit the Orizuro Tower.

Day 10 - Himeji Castle

Travel to Himeji to visit its famous castle. The feudal era fort, one of the most impressive in Japan, towers over the city and is recognisable as the backdrop to several major films. Appreciate its turbulent past before strolling around Kokoen, the Edo-style gardens just across the castle moat. Later, transfer to Osaka for an overnight stay.

Day 11 - Fly Osaka to UK

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

Hand Picked By

Having experienced a Wendy Wu tour myself, I have since recommended them to many of my customers who have an equally amazing experience. Wendy Wu’s extensive local expertise enables them not only to take you to lesser visited places, but give you those authentically Asian experiences. Be it learning a local craft, practicing an old tradition, dining on local flavours or meeting local families in their community, with Wendy Wu Tours you have the chance to really get under the skin of a country and its culture.

Carla Wilson