9-Nights Japan - Cherry Blossom Golden Route Small Group Journey from $4,252

Day 1: Osaka; Arrive Osaka

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Osaka Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, take some time to relax following your flight or begin exploring the surrounding neighborhood at your own pace. Osaka is renowned for its lively atmosphere, welcoming locals and outstanding food scene. This evening is at leisure, offering the perfect opportunity to sample local favorites such as takoyaki or okonomiyaki.

Day 2: Hiroshima; Osaka to Hiroshima via Himeji (B,L,D)

Depart Osaka and travel west towards Hiroshima. Along the way, stop to visit magnificent Himeji Castle, widely regarded as Japan’s finest surviving feudal castle. Known as the “White Heron Castle” for its elegant white exterior, this UNESCO World Heritage site features impressive defensive walls, gates and towers. Continue to Hiroshima and check into your hotel for a two-night stay. This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 3: Hiroshima; Miyajima and Hiroshima (B)

Travel to Miyajima and visit the beautiful Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its vermilion torii gate appearing to float above the water at high tide. Afterwards, return to Hiroshima for lunch before visiting Peace Memorial Park, a moving tribute to those affected by the atomic bombing. Continue to the Atomic Bomb Museum, where powerful exhibitions provide insight into the events of 1945 and Hiroshima’s enduring message of peace. Return to your hotel this afternoon.

Day 4: Osaka; Hiroshima to Osaka via Kurashiki and Nara (B,L)

Depart Hiroshima by coach and travel to the beautifully preserved city of Kurashiki a water city renowned for its breathtakingly well-preserved canal area dating back to the Edo Period. Before continuing to Osaka for your overnight stay.

Day 5: Kyoto; Osaka to Kyoto (B)

Today we will take a day trip to Nara. Once you arrive in Nara, it is a short walk to the main attractions. We will visit Todaiji Temple and its Great Hall as it houses one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. Wander back through Nara Deer Park, where you can see hundreds of deer roaming around. Nara’s 1,200 deer have become the city's symbol as it comes from the Shinto idea that every creature, nature or object is a messenger of God. While you are here you can feed the deer with crackers and enjoy some of the local foods they have to offer, as well as their cute deer souvenirs and activities related to Nara's history. Afterwards, travel to Kyoto, a time capsule of laneways filled with tea houses, izakayas and geisha — if you can spot them vanishing down the back alleys. On arrival, wander across the Togetsu Bridge, the landmark of Western Kyoto’s Arashiyama District for over four hundred years. Then, get lost in the surreal and otherworldly beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Gliding across wooden paths that weave through dense thickets of tall bamboo stalks, find a quiet corner to listen to the rustling, creaking, and sway of trunks that knock together, creating a peaceful sound like almost nothing else.

Day 6: Mt Fuji; Kyoto to Mount Fuji (B,L)

Following breakfast this morning, visit Nijo Castle, where you can revel in the atmosphere of this historical residence of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Later, admire the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen temple and World Heritage site with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold and detailed architecture incorporating the three distinct architectural styles of Shinden, Samurai and Zen. After lunch, travel onwards to Mt. Fuji on a world-famous Shinkansen bullet train. Watch as flashes of futuristic skyscrapers, shrines and lush fields pass by in its max 320-kilometers-per-hour dash from Kyoto to Tokyo. This time-defying lightning bolt is diminished only by the majesty of the cloud-cloaked Mt. Fuji, a sight that makes time stand still for a serene, spectacular moment.

Day 7: Mt Fuji; Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi (B,L)

Afterwards, ascend Mt. Fuji to the fifth station, hidden above the clouds. Depending on the weather, you might be able to capture the iconic mountain in all its breathtaking glory. (Alternatively, if the weather does not permit, you could visit the Yamanashi Prefectural Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre.) Later, experience the hypnotizing beauty of the Oshino Hakkai, also known as the Springs of Mt. Fuji — eight ponds fed by melting snow gliding down the slopes of Mt. Fuji to create crystal-clear spring water revered by the locals.

Day 8: Tokyo; Mount Fuji to Tokyo (B,L)

Begin today by joining a cruise of Lake Ashi, formed in the caldera of Mt. Hakone after the volcano’s last eruption over 3,000 years ago. Savour the numerous delights of nature. Heading to Tokyo. After arriving in Tokyo, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatories, also known as the Tokyo City View, which are two observation decks located on the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, Tokyo. The building is one of the tallest in Tokyo, standing at 243 meters high, and offers stunning panoramic city views. The rest of the day is at your own leisure.

Day 9: Tokyo; Tokyo at Leisure (B)

Today is yours to explore Tokyo independently. You may wish to experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, browse the boutiques of Ginza, visit historic Asakusa and Sensoji Temple, or discover the colourful fashion and youth culture of Harajuku. Food lovers can sample everything from traditional sushi and ramen to tempting department-store delicacies. Alternatively, enjoy a quieter day exploring one of Tokyo’s beautiful gardens, museums or character-filled neighbourhoods.

Day 10: Tokyo; Depart Tokyo (B)

Enjoy your final morning in Tokyo, depending on your flight departure time. Perhaps take a last stroll through the neighbourhood, purchase some final souvenirs or enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred from your Tokyo hotel to the airport for your onward flight. Depart Japan with wonderful memories of historic castles, sacred temples, beautiful landscapes, fascinating cities and the warm hospitality experienced throughout your journey.

9 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Dinners