Japan by Train 16 nights
ABOUT THIS ITINERARY
All aboard for a seamless journey through Japan’s finest destinations on rails! This itinerary takes you from the dazzling neon of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, the historic shores of Hiroshima, and beyond, all the while travelling in comfort on Japan’s iconic bullet trains. With each stop, you'll immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture, stunning landscapes and refined hospitality, staying in hand-picked hotels and enjoying effortless transfers. Sit back and let the rhythm of the rails lead you through an unforgettable exploration of Japan’s many facets.
Price Includes
International flights
Private transfers
Train tickets
Activities and tours as mentioned
All accommodation
24/7 support while you're away
UK airport transfers (conditions apply)
DAY 1-2
TOKYO
On arrival you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel where you'll spend the next 2 nights.
Experience the energy of Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the world’s busiest crosswalk, or opt for a more relaxed afternoon exploring local bars, cafes, and shopping markets.
Take part in a full day tour around the most famous sightseeing spots around Tokyo. You'll visit include the buzzing neighbourhoods of Akihabara and Harajuku, as well as the Buddhist temple of Sensoji.
Embark on a delicious journey through Japan, where every bite tells a story! From fresh sushi and steaming bowls of ramen to crispy tempura and sizzling yakitori, this food tour takes you to hidden local gems and bustling markets.
Explore Asakusa, home to the iconic Sensō-ji Temple and bustling Nakamise Street. Take a peaceful stroll through the Imperial Palace Gardens or visit the serene Meiji Shrine, a grand Shinto sanctuary nestled within the vibrant energy of Harajuku.
Accommodation: The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon
DAY 3-5
NIKKO
Take the train north from Tokyo to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure nestled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture. Begin your exploration at the breath-taking Toshogu Shrine and admire the intricate carvings and gold leaf details that set this shrine apart, including the famous “Sleeping Cat” and “Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil, See No Evil” monkeys.
Travel to Lake Chuzenji, a stunning volcanic lake formed by Mount Nantai. Take in panoramic views from the Akechidaira Plateau, then visit the powerful Kegon Falls, where water plunges 97 metres into a misty gorge. Enjoy lunch at a lakeside café before exploring the Senjogahara Marshlands, a peaceful area of boardwalk trails surrounded by mountains and seasonal wildflowers.
Visit Rinno-ji Temple, founded in the 8th century and home to magnificent gold-leaf Buddhist statues, before stopping at the graceful Shinkyo Bridge. For a touch of local culture, browse the small craft shops and sample yuba (tofu skin), a local delicacy that’s been part of Nikko’s culinary tradition for centuries.
Accommodation: Nikko Kanaya Hotel
DAY 6
Mount Fuji
Travel south to the breath-taking Mount Fuji National Park, where Japan’s most iconic peak rises majestically above lakes, forests, and quiet villages. Spend the day exploring this spectacular region, beginning with a visit to the Mount Fuji 5th Station, the highest accessible point by road, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and, on a clear day, sweeping vistas back towards Tokyo.
Continue to the peaceful Fuji Five Lakes area, where the reflection of the mountain shimmers across Lake Kawaguchiko. You might choose to visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, showcasing exquisite hand-dyed kimono inspired by nature, or enjoy a short cruise across the lake for another perspective of the mountain’s beauty. In the afternoon, relax at your lakeside hotel or ryokan and soak in an onsen hot spring as the sun sets behind Fuji.
Accommodation: Hoshinoya Fuji
DAY 7-9
KYOTO
Arrive in Kyoto and over the next three days, you’ll discover a world of ancient temples, tranquil gardens, and atmospheric streets lined with wooden teahouses. Begin your exploration at the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched dramatically above the city, followed by a walk through the winding lanes of Higashiyama, where traditional shops sell handmade crafts and sweets. Visit the shimmering Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and the serene Ryoan-ji Temple, famed for its Zen rock garden.
Spend time wandering through Arashiyama, a picturesque district on Kyoto’s western edge. Stroll beneath the whispering stalks of the Bamboo Grove, visit the beautiful Tenryu-ji Temple, and perhaps take a riverside boat ride for a fresh perspective on this enchanting area. In the evenings, explore Gion, Kyoto’s celebrated geisha district, where narrow lantern-lit streets and graceful wooden machiya houses evoke the elegance of old Japan. With a little luck, you may even glimpse a maiko (apprentice geisha) gliding between appointments.
On your final day, journey to the sacred Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, walking beneath its thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind through the forested hillside. Take time to enjoy a matcha tea ceremony, browse Kyoto’s artisan boutiques, or simply relax in a peaceful garden before heading onwards on your adventure.
Accommodation: THE SCREEN
DAY 10-11
TAKAYAMA
Journey east to Kyoto, Japan’s former capital and cultural gem, with a two-hour bullet train ride. Join a knowledgeable local guide to maximize your time in this diverse and historic city. You might choose to wander through the serene Ryoanji gardens and admire the elegant Silver Pavilion, or explore the atmospheric streets of Gion at night where you may even catch a glimpse of a geisha gracefully making her way through the district.
Take part in a local cooking class. On this tour, learn how to make ramen from scratch at a local ramen factory, including making the noodles, mixing the soup, and adding the toppings. Finish by enjoying your delicious bowl of home-cooked ramen.
Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its endless pathways of vibrant orange torii gates winding up the hillside. Later, take a 45-minute train journey to Nara, where you can marvel at the majestic Todaiji Temple, home to the towering Great Buddha, and stroll through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely.
Accommodation: Hoshokaku
DAY 12-13
KANAZAWA
Travel north to Kanazawa, a city often described as a “mini Kyoto” for its beautifully preserved streets, traditional teahouses, and exquisite gardens. Begin your visit at Kenroku-en Garden, before continuing to Kanazawa Castle, an elegant white-walled fortress that once housed the powerful Maeda clan, before exploring the city’s historic Nagamachi Samurai District.
Discover Kanazawa’s creative side at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, a striking circular building showcasing thought-provoking modern works in a serene, light-filled space. Don’t miss the chance to wander through the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District, where traditional wooden teahouses line cobbled streets, many now home to artisan boutiques selling gold leaf crafts, handmade ceramics, and delicate sweets.
Take time to dive deeper into Kanazawa’s craftsmanship and cuisine. Visit a gold leaf workshop to try your hand at the city’s signature art form, browse the bustling Omicho Market for fresh seafood and local delicacies, and enjoy lunch at one of the city’s refined kaiseki restaurants.
Accommodation: Uan Kanazawa
DAY 14-15
TOKYO
Return to Tokyo for one final night to soak up the irresistible energy of Japan’s dazzling capital. After days spent exploring temples, mountains, and hot springs, Tokyo offers the perfect finale, a blend of style, sophistication, and sparkle.
You'll be met in the morning by our representative who will accompany you to the airport for your scheduled flight home.
Accommodation: The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon
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