Take an international flight departing from SYD/MEL to Tokyo A representative will pick you up at the airport and you will be transferred to your hotel. Hotel check-in is available after 3 pm with your passport. 

Hotel: Tokyo Dome or similar

After breakfast, visit Senso-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo, and explore the vibrant stalls of Nakamise Dori. Take in the distant view of the tallest standing tower in the world – Tokyo Skytree. Later, enjoy a barbecue lunch with a view of the famous Nijubashi Bridge, located outside the Imperial Palace gardens. Transfer to a Hot Springs Hotel near the Mt. Fuji Area and indulge in Japanese-style hot springs and traditional Japanese dinner.

Special additional spots in Autumn (Departure date 22nd Oct-19th Nov): Yoyogi Park, Rikugien Garden

Hotel: Fuji Kawaguchiko Resort Hotel or similar

In the morning, after breakfast, visit Mt. Fuji 5th Station, situated halfway up the mountain (If the weather ds not permit, visit Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center instead). Then, proceed to Oshino Hakkai. The traditional buildings, slowly spinning water wheels, and breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji all transport you to another era. Next, explore Bussharito Heiwa Park to appreciate the Japanese-style gardens. Afterwards, transfer to Nagoya and take a leisurely stroll through the famous Osu Shopping District. Dinner - own arrangements.

Hotel: Keihan Nagoya or similar

After breakfast, explore Nagoya Castle, the heart of one of Japan's most important castle towns. Then, transfer to Kyoto and visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and the oldest temple in Kyoto. Take a leisurely stroll along the Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka Streets. Afterwards, head to Gion, an excellent place to immerse yourself in the ancient charm and culture of Kyoto. Some highlights include the Yasaka Shrine, which is always bustling with energy as devotees flock to receive blessings and pray for good fortune. Wander along Hanamachi Street, the most stylish geisha district from the Edo period. Dinner - own arrangements.

Special additional spots in Autumn (Departure date 22nd Oct-19th Nov): Arashiyama Area-Togetsukyo Bridge

Hotel: Keihan Kyoto Hachijoguchi or New Hankyu Kyoto or similar

After breakfast, explore Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. The seemingly endless path of vibrant orange torii gates leading up Mt. Inari makes for an impressive setting and is one of the most famous images of Japan. Afterwards, head to Nara to visit Nara Park, where it’s full of very playful and friendly deer. And don’t miss the beautiful view at Kasuga Taisha Shrine. This evening, visit Shinsaibashi, the largest shopping district in Osaka, and savor the local cuisine at Dotonbori Food Street. Dinner - own arrangements

Hotel: Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka or similar

In the morning, transfer to Kurashiki and visit one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan - Okayama Korakuen, a cultural heritage site treasured by the world. Then, proceed to Ohashi House, a nationally important cultural property in Kurashiki City with a typical old style. Next, enjoy your time in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Area, known for the characteristically Japanese white walls of its residences and the willow trees lining the banks of the Kurashiki River. Dinner - own arrangements.

Hotel: Royal Park Hotel Kurashiki or similar

After breakfast, transfer to Hiroshima and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Atomic Bomb Dome, commemorating one of the darkest moments in Japanese history, with the goal of promoting peace in the hope that history is never repeated. Then, take a boat to Miyajima, one of the top three scenic spots in Japan. Visit Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, the Floating Shrine on the Sea, which has more than 1400 years of history, fitting well with the blue sea and green forest, recreating the elegance of the Heian era.

Hotel: Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or similar

After breakfast, transfer to Himeji. Himeji Castle, also known as White Heron Castle due to its elegant, white appearance, is widely considered as Japan’s most spectacular castle. Next to Himeji Castle is Kokn, a Japanese garden made up of nine separate walled gardens designed in various styles reflective of Edo-period architecture.

Hotel: Hotel Monterey Himeji or similar

In the morning, transfer to Kobe. Kobe Port is one of the most important industrial and commercial ports in Japan. Since the Meiji era, it has been an area for foreigners to live in and is full of exotic flavours. Visit Chinatown, a popular tourist attraction and shopping and dining district. Later, transfer to Osaka. Lunch and dinner - own arrangements.

Hotel: Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka or Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport or similar

After breakfast, the tour guide will assist guests in taking the express airport line (own expense) to Kansai International Airport. Board your flight home to Australia.