Days 1-2

Fly to Tokyo
Fly overnight to the dazzling metropolis of Tokyo, the capital of Japan. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture. (D)
- Dinner
Day 3

Explore Tokyo
Explore the exciting city of Tokyo. Today begins with a visit to Edo-Tokyo Museum before heading to the vibrant district of Asakusa, Tokyo's old town. Here, at its heart, is Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest temple which you will explore before wandering down Nakamise shopping street. Later, cruise down the Sumida River, disembarking in Hamarikyu Gardens, an Edo period Japanese garden surrounded by futuristic skyscrapers. (B,L)
- Breakfast
Day 4

Fly to Sapporo
Transfer to the airport and fly to Sapporo. On arrival, transfer to your hotel, driving by the Tower Clock, an exquisite example of Meiji architecture. In the evening, visit the Sapporo Beer Museum followed by a 'Genghis Khan' dinner – barbeque lamb, a Sapporo special! (B,D)
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Day 5

Sapporo Snow Festival
February departure: Spend the day viewing the hundreds of ice sculptures on display at the Sapporo Snow Festival, which is the largest snow festival in the world! (B,L) April & November departures: Head to the Sairo observatory to enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Toya. After lunch, explore Norboribetsu Jigokundani (Hell Valley), renowned for its volcanic activity, hot steam vents and sulphurous streams. Also visit Upopoy National Museum and Park before retuning to Sapporo. (B,L)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 6

Otaru Port Town
This morning, ascend to the Okurayama viewing point, soaring up to the summit of the Sapporo Winter Olympics ski jump by chair lift – the views over the surrounding mountains are breathtaking. Later, visit the pretty port town of Otaru and take some time to walk along the streets of the village. Also visit the Nikka whisky factory in Yoichi, before returning to Otaru to visit the Tanaka sake brewery. (B,L)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 7

Fly to Tokyo
Transfer to the airport and fly back to Tokyo. On arrival, head to the famous Shibuya Crossing and enjoy free time for lunch. Visit the Tokyo Government Office Building's observatory deck for panoramic views of Tokyo and beyond and then transfer to your hotel. (B)
- Breakfast
Day 8

Matsumoto Castle
Start the morning with a visit to the Meiji Jingu Shrine, a tranquil Shinto shrine set amongst a stretch of woodland before transferring to Matsumoto to visit the magnificent 16th-century Matsumoto Castle, also known as 'Crow Castle' due to its black exterior. Continue to Nagano, famous for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics. (B,D)
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Day 9

Snow Monkeys
Head to Jigokudani Yaen Koen. Walk through a picturesque, forested valley to the steaming hot pools where you will spend some time watching the beautiful Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) bathe and play in the warm waters. The afternoon will be spent visiting the 7th-century Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan's most popular. (B)
- Breakfast
Day 10

Kyoto Tea Ceremony
Transfer to the station and take the limited express train to Nagoya and then travel on the super-fast bullet train to Kyoto. Upon arrival, head to a restored wooded townhouse and experience the sacred rituals of a tea ceremony. (B)
- Breakfast
Day 11

Explore Kyoto
An enchanting city, Kyoto was capital for 1,000 years; today it is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens. Start your day at Kinkakuji, the 'Golden Pavilion', Kyoto's most famous temple. Continue to Nijo Castle, and after lunch visit Sanjusangendo Temple before ending the day wandering through Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's kitchen'. (B,L,D)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 12

Depart Kyoto
Transfer to Osaka Airport and fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day. (B)
- Breakfast

We draw from a wide range of hotels on our holidays, each one is chosen to suit the tour you are travelling on meaning your accommodation can range from a smart business hotel in one city to a family run guesthouse in a smaller town. Here are some examples of the type of hotel you can expect to find on this tour.

Nights 3

Sunshine City Prince Hotel 3 Star Hotel

The Sunshine Prince is located in Sunshine City, a shopping and entertainment hub of Tokyo and close to Ikebukuro Station, providing convenient transport links to the rest of the city. The hotel's en-suite rooms are simple, comfortable and traditionally furnished with a television, electric kettle, a mini fridge and a safety deposit box. Facilities in the hotel include onsite restaurants serving Japanese, Cantonese and Western cuisines, a café and bar and a 24 hour convenience store.
Nights 3

Sapporo View Hotel 4 Star Hotel

In the heart of Sapporo, the Sapporo View Hotel is just a short walk from Odori Park and offers guests a relaxing stay with large windows offers views across this beautiful city. Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom and electric kettle.
Nights 2

Royal Hotel 4 Star Hotel

Set in a historical castle town, the 4-star Royal Hotel Nagano offers spacious guest rooms with ensuite bathrooms, free WiFi and a flat screen TV. The hotel features relaxing hot spring baths, a sauna and tennis courts. Dine on a variety of cuisines including French, Japanese and Chinese in the in house restaurant, Shononoji.
Nights 2

Rihga Gran Kyoto 4 Star Hotel

Located near the hub of transportation Kyoto station and many of Kyoto's top attractions, the Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto is in a great location for exploring this beautiful city. It's contemporary guest rooms are complete with Japanese touches and ensuite bathrooms. The hotel features many facilities, including six restaurants, a luxurious bar, a heated indoor pool, and a fitness gym.

The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are bursting into life and autumn (September to November) when the scenery is ablaze with colour.