Japan´s Hidden Treasures

Duration

13 days

On specific dates

on Sunday

Guaranteed

with 4 travellers

Max group size

14 travellers

From R121,422

WHAT TO EXPECT

Japan’s Hidden Treasures offers a thoughtfully curated exploration of Japan’s rich heritage and landscapes, traveling from the dynamic metropolis of Tokyo to the serene hot springs of Hakone, then onward to the historic mountain town of Takayama and the cultural riches of Kanazawa. The journey continues through the vibrant street life of Osaka, the poignant history of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island, culminating in Kyoto’s refined temples and traditional districts. This premium escorted tour balances comfortable private transfers, scenic train journeys, and local public transport with immersive sightseeing, including UNESCO World Heritage sites and authentic cultural experiences. Designed for discerning travelers, it combines city vibrancy, natural beauty, and centuries-old traditions with ample leisure opportunities, offering travel agents a sophisticated product that showcases Japan’s diverse and enduring appeal.

Japan´s Hidden Treasures

  • Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

    Welcome to Tokyo! Upon arrival at either Narita or Haneda Airport, you will be met at the gate by your friendly meeting assistant who will help you board the airport limousine bus—a comfortable, direct transfer into the city. Your hotel is conveniently located just a brief walk of less than ten minutes from the bus stop, allowing you to settle in quickly and begin exploring Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods at your own pace.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 2: Tokyo (B)

    Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a brief tour introduction before taking local trains to the tranquil Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled in a lush forest and dedicated to Emperor Meiji. Afterwards, wander through Harajuku’s Takeshita Dori—famous for its colorful street fashion and eclectic cafés—where you can enjoy lunch of your choice (own expense). Next, experience the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections surrounded by neon-lit billboards. To cap off the day, explore a Japanese department store food hall, or “depachika,” where you’ll find an array of fresh bento boxes, sweets, and other gourmet treats to sample. Finally, return to your hotel with memories of Tokyo’s unique blend of tradition and modern energy.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 3: Tokyo (B)

    Begin the day heading to the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, where you can admire its imposing gate, vibrant lanterns, and centuries-old Buddhist halls. From there, wander down Kappabashi Dori, Tokyo’s famed “Kitchen Town,” lined with shops selling everything from professional cookware to realistic plastic food displays. Next, ascend to the 450-meter observation deck of the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic city views—you may choose to grab lunch (own expense) at the food court below. In the afternoon, explore the nostalgic streets of Yanaka Ginza Old Town and the peaceful Yanaka Cemetery, with its moss-covered gravestones and cherry-blossom-lined paths; time permitting, you might also stop by Nippori Fabric Town to browse a vast selection of textiles and sewing supplies.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D)

    Meet your guide in the hotel lobby after preparing an overnight bag for your journey as your main luggage is transferred to Takayama for next-day arrival. Begin the day with a scenic train ride aboard the Romance Car to Hakone, followed by transfers via train and cable car to Sounzan Station. From there, ride the ropeway to Owakudani, a volcanic valley known for its hot springs and sulfur vents, where you’ll have time to explore. Continue by ropeway to Togendai and embark on a picturesque Lake Ashi cruise to Motohakone, offering stunning views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. The journey concludes with a bus ride to the hotel, where you'll check in and enjoy dinner.

    Overnight in Hotel Pax Yoshino (or similar)

  • Day 5: Hakone to Takayama (B)

    Travel to Nagoya station aboard the Hikari bullet train, then continue on a scenic limited express train ride to the mountain town of Takayama. Upon arrival, spend the afternoon exploring Sanmachi Old Town, a beautifully preserved historic district known for its traditional wooden buildings, local craft shops, cozy cafes, and renowned sake breweries. The day ends with check-in at your hotel.

    Overnight in Takayama Ou’an Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 6: Takayama to Kanazawa (B)

    Start the day with a visit to the lively Miyagawa Morning Market, known for its local produce, crafts, and street food. Then tour Takayama Jinya, a historical government building from the Edo period. Later, travel by chartered coach to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawago Village, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs. Visit the Wada House, one of the largest and best-preserved in the village, and enjoy some free time to explore. The day concludes with a transfer to Kanazawa and hotel check-in.

    Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)

  • Day 7: Kanazawa (B)

    Visit the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscaped gardens, renowned for its seasonal beauty, ponds, bridges, and teahouses. Continue to Omicho Market, Kanazawa’s bustling food hub, where you can browse vibrant stalls selling fresh seafood, produce, and local delicacies with time to enjoy lunch at your own pace (own expense). Later, explore the charming Higashi Chaya district, known for its beautifully preserved geisha houses and traditional wooden architecture. Step inside the historic Tea House Shima to experience the elegant interiors and cultural atmosphere of Kanazawa’s geisha heritage.

    Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)

  • Day 8: Kanazawa to Osaka (B)

    Meet your guide at the hotel lobby to assist with sending your main luggage ahead to Osaka to arrive the following day. Transfer to Kanazawa Station and travel by bullet train and limited express train to Osaka, then enjoy free time to explore the lively Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi districts, known for their neon lights, shopping streets, and a variety of dining options. In the afternoon, visit the historic Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, surrounded by moats and lush gardens and housing a fascinating museum inside. Conclude the day with checking into your hotel for an evening at leisure.

    Overnight in Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba (or similar)

  • Day 9: Osaka (B)

    Travel by local train (non reserved) from Osaka to Nara for a leisurely walk through Nara Deer Park, where friendly sika deer roam freely. Visit Todai ji, home to the UNESCO listed Daibutsu (Great Buddha), one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha statues, inside the vast wooden Daibutsuden Hall (ticket included). Enjoy free time for lunch (own expense) amid the eateries and shops of Higashimuki and Mochiidono arcades. Continue by train and local bus to Horyu ji Temple (ticket included), famed for having some of the world’s oldest surviving wooden buildings and exquisite Asuka period art. Conclude with a return by bus and train via Oji Station to your Osaka hotel.

    Overnight in Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba (or similar)

  • Day 10: Osaka to Hiroshima (B/L)

    Meet your guide in the lobby and send your main luggage ahead to your Kyoto hotel, carrying a small overnight bag. Board the bullet train to Hiroshima and arrive ready for a classic okonomiyaki lunch, the city’s beloved savory pancake layered with noodles and toppings. Visit the A Bomb Dome, the haunting skeletal remains of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing resilience and peace. Continue to the Peace Memorial Museum, whose poignant exhibits trace the stories of survivors and the city’s reconstruction. After a reflective afternoon amid Hiroshima’s memorial parklands, transfer to your hotel and check in for a restful evening.

    Overnight in Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima Ekimae (or similar)

  • Day 11: Hiroshima to Kyōto (B)

    Sail by ferry to Miyajima Island, famed for Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic “floating” vermilion torii gate set against forested slopes and the Inland Sea (ticket included). Stroll the waterfront and Omotesando shopping street, sample island specialties like grilled oysters or momiji manju, or ride the ropeway and hike on Mount Misen for sweeping views. After free time for lunch (own expense), return by ferry and train to Hiroshima Station, then board the bullet train to Kyoto. Arrive in the evening and make your way to the hotel to relax, reflecting on a day of serene shrines, scenic seascapes, and classic island flavors.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 12: Kyoto (B)

    Begin at the iconic Kiyomizu dera Temple, famed for its vast wooden stage and sweeping views over Kyoto, plus the Otowa Waterfall for good luck sips. Join a traditional tea ceremony to learn matcha preparation and etiquette. Wander Ninenzaka’s preserved lanes of wooden townhouses, with time to browse craft shops and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Continue through Gion’s atmospheric Hanami Koji Street to Kenninji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, known for serene rock gardens and a dramatic twin dragon ceiling. Conclude at Sanjusangendo, a remarkable long hall housing 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist deity of compassion.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 13: Kyoto (B/D)

    Explore the beautiful Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates winding up the mountainside. Enjoy free time to relax or further discover Kyoto’s many cultural treasures at your own pace. In the late afternoon, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and set out for a stroll through the atmospheric Gion District, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and narrow lanes. Conclude the day with a memorable dinner experience in the company of a Maiko or Geisha, offering a rare insight into Kyoto’s refined performing arts and hospitality traditions.

    Overnight in Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA (or similar)

  • Day 14: Kyōto Departure (B)

    Enjoy a leisurely final morning in Kyoto before checking out of your hotel. Make your own way on foot to Kyoto Station and continue to the airport for your departing flight (train fare not included). Thank you for traveling with us - may the memories of vibrant Tokyo streets, tranquil temples, scenic mountain vistas, and Kyoto’s timeless charm stay with you long after you return home.

  • Day 1: Tokyo Arrival

    Welcome to Tokyo! Upon arrival at either Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport, you will be met at the arrival gate by your friendly assistant guide, who will help you board the airport limousine bus for a comfortable transfer into the city. Your limousine bus ticket is included. Upon arrival at the bus stop, it is just a short walk of less than ten minutes to your hotel, where you can settle in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 2: Tokyo (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a tour briefing before setting out to explore Tokyo using the city's convenient local train network.

    Begin with a visit to the tranquil Meiji Jingu Shrine, a peaceful Shinto sanctuary surrounded by a lush forest in the heart of the city. Afterwards, continue to lively Harajuku and enjoy some free time along Takeshita Dori, famous for its colorful street fashion, quirky boutiques, cafés, and sweet treats. Take some time here to enjoy lunch at your own expense.

    Next, experience the energy of the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the world's busiest pedestrian intersections. You will also have the opportunity to explore one of Japan's impressive department store food halls, known locally as "depachika," where beautifully presented bento boxes, sweets, delicacies, and gourmet foods are on display. You may wish to pick up something for dinner later.

    Return to your hotel at approximately 3:00 PM, with the remainder of the day at leisure. .

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 3: Tokyo (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and set out for another day of sightseeing in Tokyo.

    Begin in Asakusa, Tokyo's historic district, with a visit to the iconic Senso-ji Temple and time to explore the surrounding traditional streets. Continue to Tokyo Skytree, where you will ascend to the spectacular 450-metre observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views across the city. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy lunch at the food court at your own expense.

    In the afternoon, explore the nostalgic Yanaka Ginza Old Town and peaceful Yanaka Cemetery, an area that retains much of the atmosphere of old Tokyo. If time permits, you may also visit nearby Nippori Fabric Town, known for its extensive collection of textile and sewing shops.

    Return to your hotel at approximately 3:00 PM. .

    Please note: During peak travel seasons, including cherry blossom and autumn foliage periods, a taxi or private car will be arranged for today's sightseeing. .

    Overnight in Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D)

    At 8:45 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart Tokyo by private car for Hakone, one of Japan's most popular hot spring resorts. The region is renowned for its relaxing onsen, scenic views of Mount Fuji and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

    Arrive at Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic area known for its steaming vents, sulfurous landscape and famous black eggs. From here, board the Hakone Ropeway and travel approximately 15 minutes to Togendai near the shores of Lake Ashi. Your ropeway ticket is included.

    Next, enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi for approximately 20–25 minutes, with the cruise ticket also included.

    At approximately 4:00 PM, check in to your ryokan-style hotel. This evening, experience traditional Japanese hospitality with a Kaiseki-style dinner and the opportunity to unwind in the hotel's onsen, or Japanese hot spring bath.

    Overnight in Hotel Pax Yoshino (or similar)

  • Day 5: Hakone to Takayama (B)

    At 8:30 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby. This morning, your main luggage will be transferred ahead to Kanazawa and will arrive the following day. The luggage transfer service is included, so please prepare a smaller bag with the items you will need in Takayama.

    Travel by public transportation to Odawara Station, where you will begin your rail journey to Takayama. Ride a combination of bullet train (Shinkansen) and limited express train, with the required train tickets included.

    Arrive in Takayama at approximately 2:15 PM and begin exploring this charming mountain town. Visit Takayama Jinya, a fascinating historic government building dating from the Edo period; admission is included.

    Continue to Sanmachi Old Town, a beautifully preserved historic district lined with traditional wooden buildings, local craft shops, cafés and sake breweries.

    Arrive at your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM and check in for the evening.

    Overnight in Takayama Ou’an Hotel (or similar)

  • Day 6: Takayama to Kanazawa (B)

    At 8:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart Takayama by private car for Shirakawago.

    Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawago Village, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with distinctive steeply pitched thatched roofs. Visit the historic Wada House, with admission included, and enjoy some free time to explore the picturesque village at your own pace.

    Afterwards, continue by private car to Kanazawa. Arrive at approximately 1:00 PM and check in to your hotel.

    The remainder of the day is at leisure, giving you the afternoon and evening to relax or begin exploring Kanazawa independently.

    Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)

  • Day 7: Kanazawa (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and begin exploring Kanazawa using public transportation.

    Visit the magnificent Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of Japan's most celebrated landscape gardens and renowned for its seasonal beauty, tranquil ponds, bridges and carefully designed scenery. Admission is included.

    Continue to bustling Omicho Market, Kanazawa's famous food market, where stalls overflow with fresh seafood, produce and regional delicacies. Enjoy some free time to explore and purchase lunch at your own expense.

    Later, discover the beautifully preserved Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional wooden teahouses and historic geisha culture. Visit the historic Tea House Shima to see its elegant interiors and gain an insight into Kanazawa's traditional entertainment heritage. Admission is included.

    Return to your hotel at approximately 3:00 PM.

    Overnight in Hotel Forza Kanazawa (or similar)

  • Day 8: Kanazawa to Osaka (B)

    At 8:15 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and transfer to Kanazawa Station. Your transportation ticket is included.

    This morning, your main luggage will be transferred ahead to your Osaka hotel, arriving the following day. Please prepare a smaller overnight bag with the items you will need until your luggage arrives.

    Travel from Kanazawa to Osaka using a combination of bullet train (Shinkansen) and limited express train, with the required tickets included. Upon arrival in Osaka, change to a local train to continue your journey.

    Enjoy free time to explore the lively Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi districts, famous for their neon signs, bustling shopping streets and seemingly endless food choices. Take some time here to enjoy lunch at your own expense.

    Later, visit the grounds of historic Osaka Castle and explore the surrounding Osaka Castle Park.

    At approximately 5:00 PM, arrive at your hotel and check in.

    Overnight in Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba (or similar)

  • Day 9: Osaka (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and depart for a day trip to historic Nara.

    Travel from Osaka to Nara by local train using non-reserved seating. Upon arrival, walk through famous Nara Deer Park, where friendly sika deer roam freely among visitors.

    Continue to Todai-ji Temple to admire its magnificent Great Buddha, one of Nara's most celebrated cultural treasures. Admission is included.

    Enjoy some free time for lunch at your own expense before returning to Osaka in the afternoon. Back in Osaka, visit another sightseeing spot of choice, depending on timing and local conditions, before returning to your hotel by approximately 5:00 PM.

    Overnight in Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba (or similar)

  • Day 10: Osaka to Hiroshima (B)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby. Your main luggage will be transferred ahead to your Kyoto hotel, so please prepare a small overnight bag with everything you will need for your night in Hiroshima. The luggage transfer service is included.

    Travel from Osaka to Hiroshima by bullet train, with your train ticket included, arriving before noon. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time around Hiroshima Station to purchase lunch at your own expense.

    In the afternoon, visit the A-Bomb Dome, the haunting remains of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enduring symbol of peace.

    Continue to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where moving exhibits document the events of the atomic bombing and share the experiences of survivors. Admission is included.

    Check in to your Hiroshima hotel by approximately 5:00 PM.

    Overnight in Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima Ekimae (or similar)

  • Day 11: Hiroshima to Kyōto (B)

    At 9:00 AM, after breakfast at the hotel, travel to the ferry terminal by train and on foot.

    Board the ferry to beautiful Miyajima Island, with the ferry ticket included. Visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine, celebrated for its vermilion architecture and iconic torii gate standing in the waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Admission to the shrine is included.

    Enjoy some free time on Miyajima, including time to purchase lunch at your own expense and explore the island at your own pace.

    Afterwards, return to Hiroshima Station by ferry and train. From Hiroshima, board the bullet train to Kyoto Station, with your train ticket included.

    Upon arrival in Kyoto, walk the short distance from the station to your hotel and check in.

    Overnight in Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo (or similar)

  • Day 12: Kyoto (B)

    At 9:00 AM, after breakfast at the hotel, depart to explore Kyoto using public transportation.

    Begin at the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most celebrated landmarks, renowned for its impressive wooden stage and sweeping views across the city. Admission is included.

    Next, participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, offering an introduction to the preparation, presentation and etiquette surrounding matcha.

    Continue to the beautifully preserved Ninenzaka area, where traditional wooden buildings line atmospheric lanes filled with shops and cafés. Enjoy some free time here to purchase lunch at your own expense.

    Afterwards, visit Yasaka Shrine before continuing through the atmospheric Gion Geisha District and along historic Hanamikoji Street.

    Walk through the lively Kawaramachi area to Nishiki Market, Kyoto's iconic food market, and explore the nearby Teramachi shopping arcade.

    Return to your hotel before 5:00 PM.

    Overnight in Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo (or similar)

  • Day 13: Kyoto (B/D)

    At 9:00 AM, meet your guide in the hotel lobby and travel by local train to Fushimi Inari Shrine. Your local train ticket is included.

    Explore this spectacular shrine, famous for the thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates that form pathways winding up the mountainside.

    After your visit, enjoy free time to relax or continue discovering Kyoto independently until later in the afternoon.

    At approximately 4:30 PM, meet your guide again in the hotel lobby and transfer to Gion by local bus, train or subway.

    This evening, enjoy a memorable dinner in the company of a Maiko or Geisha, offering a special opportunity to experience Kyoto's refined traditional entertainment and hospitality culture. The dinner experience is included.

    Return to your hotel at approximately 9:00 PM.

    Overnight in Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo (or similar)

  • Day 14: Kyōto Departure (B)

    Enjoy a leisurely final morning in Kyoto before checking out of your hotel.

    Make your own way on foot to Kyoto Station and continue to the airport for your departing flight. Please note that the train ticket from Kyoto to the airport is not included.

    Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey through Japan. We hope you leave with wonderful memories of Tokyo's vibrant streets, Hakone's volcanic landscapes and hot springs, the historic mountain towns and villages of central Japan, Hiroshima and Miyajima's moving history and scenery, and Kyoto's timeless cultural heritage.

Inclusions

  • Insider Experiences

    - Immerse guests in the dynamic pulse of Tokyo with visits to tranquil shrines, iconic urban crossings, and bustling markets showcasing vibrant street culture and gourmet delights.
    -Elevate the journey with Hakone’s dramatic volcanic landscapes, a scenic ropeway ride, and the soothing luxury of onsen bathing accompanied by exquisite Kaiseki cuisine.
    - Explore Japan’s mountainous heart through Takayama and Shirakawago’s preserved historic villages, revealing traditional architecture woven into breathtaking rural settings.
    - Delight in culturally rich Kyoto experiences from serene temple visits and traditional tea ceremonies to an exclusive dinner with a Maiko or Geisha, embodying refined heritage.

  • Accommodation

    13 nights in 4 star hotels


  • Meals

    Daily breakfast
    1 local lunch
    2 local dinners

  • Transport

    High-Speed Trains as specified in Itinerary
    Arrival Airport Limousine Bus
    Public Transport fare as specified

  • Touring

    English speaking tour guide
    Entrance fees for locations specified
    Luggage Courier Service as specified

SKU: SGJ070-JP Category: Tags: , ,

Departure Dates

START DAYEND DAYPRICE TWIN ROOMPRICE SINGLE ROOM
Sunday, 13 September 2026Saturday, 26 September 2026124423143330
Sunday, 04 October 2026Saturday, 17 October 2026124423143330
Sunday, 25 October 2026Saturday, 07 November 2026131811151741
Sunday, 15 November 2026Saturday, 28 November 2026131811151741
Sunday, 29 November 2026Saturday, 12 December 2026131811151741
Sunday, 28 February 2027Saturday, 13 March 2027124423143330
Sunday, 21 March 2027Saturday, 03 April 2027137713157643
Sunday, 11 April 2027Saturday, 24 April 2027137713157643
Sunday, 25 April 2027Saturday, 08 May 2027137713157643
Sunday, 09 May 2027Saturday, 22 May 2027133605155166
Sunday, 30 May 2027Saturday, 12 June 2027133605155166
Sunday, 20 June 2027Saturday, 03 July 2027126418147979
Sunday, 11 July 2027Saturday, 24 July 2027126418147979
Sunday, 01 August 2027Saturday, 14 August 2027126418147979
Sunday, 22 August 2027Saturday, 04 September 2027126418147979
Sunday, 12 September 2027Saturday, 25 September 2027126418147979
Sunday, 03 October 2027Saturday, 16 October 2027145951167512
Sunday, 24 October 2027Saturday, 06 November 2027145951167512
Sunday, 14 November 2027Saturday, 27 November 2027145951167512
Sunday, 28 November 2027Saturday, 11 December 2027145951167512
Sunday, 27 February 2028Saturday, 11 March 2028126418147979
Sunday, 19 March 2028Saturday, 01 April 2028145951167512
Sunday, 09 April 2028Saturday, 22 April 2028145951167512
Sunday, 23 April 2028Saturday, 06 May 2028145951167512

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