Shoguns and Samurai Japan Tour

Day 1 – Tokyo
Meet your guide and other group members at the tour hotel in central Tokyo in the evening. There will be a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. A transfer from the airport is not included but ask us if you would like us to add this in for you.
Overnight Tokyo Hotel

Day 2 – Walking tour of Tokyo
On our first full day in Japan, we'll embark on a walking adventure through the vibrant heart of Tokyo. Our journey begins at the serene Hama-Rikyu Gardens, nestled near the mouth of the Sumida River. Standing in these tranquil grounds, we'll witness a remarkable contrast: the lush greenery juxtaposed against the gleaming skyscrapers of the nearby Shiodome business district. From there, we'll set our sights on Nihonbashi, the historic "Japan Bridge," considered the symbolic centre point of the country. This landmark marks the starting point for all major roads in Japan, a significance it has held since the Edo period. Our exploration continues into the elegant realm of the Ginza district, renowned for its upscale shopping and sophisticated atmosphere. As we navigate through the bustling streets, we'll eventually arrive at the majestic Meiji Shrine, a Shinto sanctuary nestled near the vibrant Harajuku district, known for its youthful energy and unconventional fashion scene.
Overnight Tokyo Hotel (B)

Day 3 - Obuse and Yudanaka Hot Spring
Today, we'll embark on a journey to Obuse, a charming town nestled in the Nagano Prefecture northwest of Tokyo. This quaint destination holds a special place in art history as the adopted home of the legendary artist Hokusai in his later years. We'll delve into his legacy at the Hokusai-kan Museum, where a captivating collection of his works awaits. Our adventure then takes us to the Masuichi-Ichimura Sake Brewery, where we'll get a taste of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. From there, we'll venture a short distance to Yudanaka Onsen, a hot spring village renowned for its unique residents - Japanese macaques. These fascinating creatures, often called 'snow monkeys,' discovered the warmth of the outdoor hot springs during the frigid winters and now bathe there year-round, offering a captivating spectacle.
Overnight at a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) (BD)

Day 4 - Matsumoto and Narai
Our journey today begins with a drive to Matsumoto, where we'll discover the beauty of its historic castle, a testament to 16th-century architecture. After a lunch break, we'll delve into the Kiso Valley, where the town of Narai awaits. This atmospheric gem served as a vital post town on the ancient Nakasendo Way, a historic route connecting Kyoto and the then-named Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the feudal period. As we explore Narai, we'll be transported back in time, surrounded by meticulously preserved houses and charming former inns that whisper tales of bygone eras.
Overnight at a Minshuku (family run guesthouse) (BD)

Day 5 - Tsumago and Magome
After a leisurely breakfast, you will have the morning to explore the streets of Narai. This charming village offers a treasure trove of local crafts, particularly lacquerware and woodworks, making it the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir. Next, we embark on a short journey by train and bus to Tsumago, another gem along the historic Nakasendo Way. This beautifully preserved village, still inhabited by locals, resembles a living museum. As we wander its streets, the scent of freshly made "gohei mochi" will tempt us. These skewered rice balls, coated in a sweet miso, sesame, and walnut paste, are a local delicacy waiting to be savoured. Before leaving, a visit to the folk museum offers a glimpse into the town's rich history and traditions. From Tsumago, we have two options: a lovely 8-kilometre walk through forests and countryside, passing farms, rice fields, traditional houses, and picturesque gardens. Alternatively, a local bus provides a more relaxed way to reach our destination. Whichever path we choose, we'll arrive in Magome, our final stop for today, in time to settle into our cozy minshuku, a traditional family-run inn, and unwind after a delightful day of exploration.
Overnight at a Minshuku (family run guesthouse) (BD)

Day 6 – Takayama
Our Japanese tour continues as we leave Magome behind and journey onwards to Takayama. This charming city boasts a rich heritage, evident in its well-preserved traditional architecture. Takayama is also a haven for skilled craftspeople, renowned for their exquisite yew-wood carvings, Shunkei lacquerware, and beautiful pottery and furniture. Upon arrival at our local inn, we might have the opportunity to wander the scenic surroundings before soaking in the rejuvenating hot springs. As the day winds down, we'll indulge in a taste of the local delicacy, Hida beef, possibly paired with some of the region's famed sake.
Overnight at a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) (BD)

Day 7 – Explore Takayama
A vibrant tapestry unfolds before us on this full day in Takayama. Our morning begins with a sensory feast at the bustling market, where colourful stalls showcase fresh vegetables, handcrafted treasures, tangy pickles, and mementos of Takayama. We then step back in time at the Yoshijima Heritage House, a wonderful example of wooden architecture boasting a refined and beautifully preserved interior. The afternoon starts with a leisurely stroll through the San-machi district, where rows of timeworn merchant houses stand, some transformed into captivating museums. There is time to explore Takayama at your own pace, perhaps unearthing unique treasures to take home and keep the magic of this charming city alive.
Overnight at a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) (BD)

Day 8 - Travel to Shirakawa-go
There are a few hours free this morning and you can make the most of Takayama's allure. Perhaps lose yourself in the captivating museums, like the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall, where you'll view the intricate, towering floats that grace the city during its legendary festival - one of Japan's most renowned. After lunch, we embark on a journey to the otherworldly village of Ogimachi in the Shirakawa-go region. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven of 'gassho-zukuri' houses, their steep thatched roofs like giant hands clasped in prayer, a design crafted to defy the weight of harsh winter snows.
Overnight at a Minshuku (family run guesthouse) (BD)

Day 9 – Bus and Train to Kyoto
Today, we bid farewell to the mountains as our Japanese tour continues with a bus ride to Kanazawa, followed by a train ride to the vibrant heart of Kyoto. Here our centrally located hotel awaits. At twilight, we embark on a stroll through the captivating Gion district. This haven of exclusivity is renowned for its opulent ryotei (private restaurants reserved for special occasions). Be on the lookout, for with a touch of luck, you might catch a glimpse of graceful geiko, Kyoto's term for geisha, or their apprentices, the maiko, as they navigate the serene streets. Our exploration continues at the Sanjo-ohashi Bridge, marking the western terminus of the historic Nakasendo Trail.
Overnight Kyto Hotel (B)

Day 10 – Kyoto
This morning, we embark on a half-day walking tour of Kyoto. Our first stop is the legendary Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Originally built in the 14th century as a haven of contemplation by the Ashikaga Shogun, this iconic landmark shimmers with gilded splendour. From there, we journey to the serene Ryoan-ji Temple, renowned for its captivating rock garden. Here, raked gravel creates a sea of tranquillity punctuated by fifteen moss-covered boulders, each one whispering stories of Zen philosophy. The afternoon unfolds at your own pace, offering the freedom to delve deeper into the city's vibrant spirit, explore hidden gems, or perhaps indulge in a spot of shopping for unique local crafts.
Overnight Kyto Hotel (B)

Day 11 – Nara
We embark on a day trip to the ancient city of Nara, a treasure trove of history that held the title of Japan's capital from 710 to 784. A short train ride whisks us away from Kyoto, where the majestic Todai-ji Temple awaits. Within its hallowed halls, said to be the world's largest wooden structure, a colossal bronze statue of Buddha stands as a testament to ancient artistry. Afterward, you have a choice: immerse yourself in the bustle of the Nara-machi district, its narrow streets alive with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants, or seek serenity along the quiet back road leading from Todai-ji Temple to the mystical Kasuga Grand Shrine. As the day fades over Nara's timeless beauty, we'll return to the vibrant pulse of Kyoto.
Overnight Kyto Hotel (B)

Day 12 - Mount Koya
Today, we begin by journeying to Osaka on the local train before embarking on a scenic ride along the Nankai Railway Line. Our destination is Mount Koya, nestled high in the Kii Peninsula mountains within a bowl-shaped valley carpeted with ancient cedars. Since the 9th century, this sacred place has echoed with the footsteps of pilgrims and the murmur of prayers. Over a hundred monasteries dot the landscape, many offering shukubo, the unique experience of lodging within a temple. As we settle into this spiritual sanctuary, we'll savour the flavours of shojin ryori, the artfully crafted Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Later, a walk through the vast Okuno-in Cemetery unfolds like a journey through time, with countless graves and memorials of feudal lords and other figures from Japan's rich history.
Overnight at a Shukubo (temple lodging) (BD)

Day 13 – Return to Tokyo
A unique opportunity awaits those who rise with the dawn. At 6 am, you can choose to immerse yourself in the spiritual rhythm of the temple by joining the Buddhist service. After breakfast, we bid farewell to the tranquil embrace of Mount Koya and return to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. The journey whisks us back to Osaka, and then onto the iconic bullet train for the final leg of our adventure. As evening descends on Tokyo, we'll gather for a farewell dinner, a time to celebrate the unforgettable experiences we've shared.
Overnight Tokyo Hotel

Day 14 – End of this Japanese Cultural Tour
The tour ends today after breakfast. Your guide will be on hand to offer assistance and advice for travelling to the airport if you have homeward flights, or on onward travel in Japan if you are extending your stay.