2026 Autumn Jewels of Japan

Day 1 /  START TOKYO

Welcome to Tokyo! A morning Welcome Meeting straight after breakfast with our fellow travelers, we’ll head straight out to start our touring of one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the world! Visits to Yoyogi Park with its  Grand Shrine, sake barrels and impressive Meiji Shrine.  Shunkaen Bonsai museum and trendy Harajuku area and iconic Takashite street. Later this evening a highlight Welcome Dinner to get to know your fellow travelling companions and prepare for our big adventure around Japan’s Honshu island. Kanpai!         (HD)

ACCOMMODATION: Tokyo 3 Nights – Matsui Gardens Ginza Premier (Standard Rooms)

Day 2 /  TOKYO SIGHTSEEING

An early start this morning as we visit the lively Tsukiji fish market and enjoy a sushi breakfast! Afterwards with our local guide visits to the famed Shibuya Crossing with statue of akita dog Hachikō. Lunch included today at the iconic Asahi Brewery building. The rest of the day and evening is at leisure. Perhaps visit the striking Tokyo Tower and head out and explore vibrant Shinjuku area by night with its colourful city lights, foodie streets and impressive “3D” advertising screen!         (BB, L)

Day 3 / TOKYO SIGHTSEEING

We continue our sight-seeing of Tokyo with a visit to the impressive Imperial Palace East gardens and its museum exhibiting imperial artworks. Afterwards we explore the magnificent Shinjuku Gyoen National Gardens for the autumn foliage. This evening a highlight dinner at Robatayaki in the bustling and fun Roppongi district near our hotel.      (BB, HD)

Day 4 /  TOKYO to FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO

Today we leave the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and head westward to reach the region of the seven lakes and a 2-night stay in the shadow of Fuji-san at lovely Fujikawaguchiko. Nestled by majestic Mount Fuji, this lakeside town offers breathtaking views of the iconic peak framed by vibrant red and gold foliage. Stroll along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, visit traditional thatched-roof villages, and soak in the crisp, clear air of the season. Whether you’re capturing the perfect photo, enjoying local delicacies, or simply admiring the colours reflected in the lake, Fujikawaguchiko is a peaceful and unforgettable autumn retreat though the crowds flock in Autumn for the vibrant colours!  En route we stop in the Yamanashi Valley and visit Japan’s oldest winery along with the quaint village of Oshino Hakkei.  (B,D)

ACCOMMODATION:  Fujikwaguchiko 2-nights – Fuji View Hotel or similar,  (Moderate rooms)

Day 5 / FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO SIGHTSEEING

Enjoy a full day exploring the stunning landscapes around Lake Kawaguchi with Mount Fuji as your backdrop. We take a public boat ride around the shores of Lake Kawaguchi set amongst the colourful lakeside villages. Later we visit the Oishi Park lakeside gardens for panoramic views and Autumnal colours. Stop by the charming Fuji Omuro Sengen shrine with the rest of the day and evening at leisure at our lakeside hotel. Perhaps take the aerial ropeway for views over this stunning region. A scenic, cultural day immersed in the heart of Japan’s autumn beauty.           (BB)

Day 6 / FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO to MATSUMOTO

After breakfast, we farewell the lakeside beauty of Fujikawaguchiko and travel by private coach through the scenic mountain landscapes of central Japan. Our journey takes us across fertile valleys and winding alpine roads, offering sweeping views of forested peaks and rural villages along the way. Arriving in Matsumoto by afternoon, we visit the city’s famous Matsumoto Castle— one of Japan’s few remaining original castles and a designated National Treasure. There’s time to explore its striking black-and-white façade and learn about its fascinating samurai history before continuing to our hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening in this charming mountain town surrounded by the Japan Alps.                                                                                                                          (BB)

ACCOMMODATION: 1 Night Matsumoto – Richmond Hotel (Standard Twin rooms)

Day 7 /  MATSUMOTO to TAKAYAMA

We travel today by coach through stunning landscapes of the Japanese Alps, stopping in the scenic Kamikochi area to admire the crystal-clear Taisho Pond, the iconic Kappa Bridge, Weston Monument and Kamikochi Visitor Centre. We continue to Takayama with its beautifully preserved 19^th C streets, traditional wooden houses and local shops. Included dinner in our hotel this evening.                                                                                                         (BB, D)

ACCOMMODATION: Takayama 2 nights – Mercure Hiida Takayama or similar (Superior rooms)

Day 8 /  TAKAYAMA SIGHTSEEING

Spend a full day discovering the charms of Takayama. In the morning, visit the historic Takayama Jinya, stroll the lively morning market. In the afternoon, follow the scenic Higashiyama Walking Course, a tranquil trail that winds past charming streets, traditional shops, and several local shrines, offering an immersive glimpse into Takayama’s cultural heritage. In your free-time perhaps visit and experience a local sake brewery!      (BB)

Day 9 /  TAKAYAMA to KANAZAWA

Departing Takayama we take a scenic coach drive to the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawago. We spend time exploring this charming mountain village and its historic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, experiencing a unique glimpse of traditional rural Japan and include a stop in equally charming Gokayama. Later we continue through the mountains to Kanazawa where we visit the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District, famous for its historic tea houses and preserved Edo-period streetscape. Here we enjoy a private traditional tea ceremony in Gyokusen-en garden. An evening at leisure to rest in our central Hyatt hotel.    (BB)

ACCOMMODATION: Kanazawa 2-nights  – Hotel Hyatt Centric or similar (Standard rooms)

Day 10 /  KANAZAWA SIGHTSEEING

Today, we enjoy a busy and full day of sightseeing in Kanazawa with our expert local guide. We explore the city’s beautifully preserved samurai district, with its narrow lanes and earthen-walled residences. We then visit the bustling Omicho Market, known for its fresh seafood and local delicacies. visit the renowned Kenroku-en Garden, celebrated as one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens Along the way, we learn about Kanazawa’s rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts. A highlight local dinner enjoy dinner this evening in this elegant city.       (BB, HD)

Day 11 / KANAZAWA to KYOTO

ACCOMMODATION: Kyoto 4-nights  – Riga Royal Hotel or similar (Standard Rooms)

Day 12 / KYOTO SIGHTSEEING

Today, we enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Kyoto with our expert local guide. We begin with a visit to the iconic Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), its gold-leaf exterior shimmering beside a peaceful reflecting pond. Next, we travel to the scenic Arashiyama district to walk through the famous Bamboo Grove, a serene and otherworldly experience. Along the way, we learn about Kyoto’s rich history, Zen culture, and traditional aesthetics. This evening is at your leisure to explore further the atmospheric Gion district, known for its historic tea houses, geisha heritage, and a wide range of dining options to suit every taste.    (BB)

Day 13 / KYOTO SIGHTSEEING

Today, we continue our cultural journey through Kyoto with a visit to one of Japan’s oldest and finest stone gardens at Ryōan-ji before a visit to the temple of Sanjusangendo. In the afternoon, we visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind their way through the forested hillside. It’s one of Japan’s most photographed and spiritually significant sites. The evening is at leisure to enjoy more of Kyoto’s charm at your own pace. We’ll also make a quick stop at the stunning and serene Hoshun-ri bonsai garden. (Kyoto sightseeing schedule may be adjusted based on timings).            (BB)

Day 14 / KYOTO SIGHTSEEING/NARA DAY_TRIP

Today, we take a short journey to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital renowned for its rich history and friendly bowing deer. Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the massive Great Buddha statue, and stroll through Nara Park, where hundreds of freely roaming deer interact with visitors. Explore the tranquil grounds of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns. Returning to Kyoto an evening at leisure to explore its many culinary delights.           (BB)

Day 15 /  KYOTO to HIROSHIMA

An earlier start as we board the Shinkansen bullet train for a smooth and scenic journey west from Kyoto to Hiroshima. On arrival, visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum — a moving tribute to the city’s history and enduring spirit of resilience. Afterwards, take a short ferry ride to the sacred island of Miyajima, famed for the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic “floating” red torii gate. Enjoy time to wander the island’s tranquil paths, explore traditional shops, and sample local delicacies. Returning to the mainland we check-in to our hotel for the night. Overnight bags today as our luggage today will be forwarded to Osaka to collect tomorrow.     (BB)

Day 16 / Hiroshima to Osaka

This morning we re-board the Shinkansen for a fast and comfortable journey from Hiroshima to Himeji, home to Japan’s stunning Himeji Castle, often called the “White Heron Castle” for its elegant, pristine appearance. We explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, widely regarded as Japan’s most spectacular and best-preserved feudal castle. Afterwards a visit to famed Koko-en gardens and its beautiful grounds. We then continue by bullet train to Osaka, Japan’s vibrant culinary capital. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief orientation tour including views of Osaka Castle and a stroll through the lively Dotonbori district for a walking foodie tour of this culinary capital featuring Osaka specialties like takoyaki and kushikatsu !              (BB, HD)

ACCOMMODATION: Osaka 2-nights – Voco Osaka or similar (Standard Rooms)

Day 17 / OSAKA SIGHTSEEING

Today, we explore the vibrant city of Osaka. Begin with a visit to Osaka Castle, a majestic symbol of Japan’s history, surrounded by lush gardens perfect for autumn strolls. In the afternoon, explore the lively Shinsaibashi shopping arcade, offering everything from unique boutiques to major brands. The evening a final highlight dinner to share in all the wonderful highlights and fun of the last 17 days!                                                (BB, HD)

Day 18 / Thurs 19 June 2025 – END OSAKA

Sadly, our big Japan adventure finishes after breakfast. Continue further exploring Osaka or perhaps take the bullet-train back to Tokyo and explore further or begin your journey home. Arigato gozaimasu and bon voyage! (BB)