Highlights of Japan, Multi Centre Holidays

Highlights of Japan

This 15-day rail adventure showcases Japan’s must-see highlights, combining guided experiences with free time to explore at your own pace. Begin in the buzzing, futuristic capital of Tokyo before experiencing traditional life in the mountain town of Hakone. Continue to Kyoto’s ancient temples and shrines, visit historic Hiroshima and lively Osaka, and finish in the beautiful alpine town of Takayama before returning to Tokyo.

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This itinerary covers the must see sights of Japan, including Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka and Takayama.

4 Nights – Tokyo
1 Night – Hakone
3 Nights – Kyoto
2 Nights – Hiroshima
1 Night – Osaka
2 Nights – Takayama
1 Night – Tokyo

✈️ UK – Tokyo (4 nights): Fly from the UK to Tokyo, where you’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel in one of the city’s traditional neighbourhoods. Over the next four nights, immerse yourself in Japan’s captivating blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity. Enjoy a mix of guided tours and free time to explore at your own pace.
Visit the city’s oldest temple, Sensō-ji, cruise along the Sumida River, and wander through serene shrines and manicured gardens. Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, shop in stylish districts, and discover Tokyo’s famous street food and world-class restaurants. From peaceful temples to neon skylines, Tokyo promises a feast for all the senses.

🚝 Tokyo – Hakone (1 night): Travel by train to Hakone, set within a stunning national park in the shadow of Mount Fuji. Take a scenic cruise across Lake Ashinoko, admire the mountain views and relax in an onsen (hot spring). You’ll spend the night in a traditional Japanese ryokan, where you can experience tatami mats, paper screens, and exquisite kaiseki cuisine, for a true taste of Japan’s hospitality.

🚝 Hakone – Kyoto (3 nights): Continue by rail to Kyoto, the City of Ten Thousand Shrines. Once Japan’s imperial capital, Kyoto is the heart of its cultural heritage. Visit its most iconic temples and shrines, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, and stroll through tranquil Zen gardens. Explore Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and wander through Gion, the historic geisha district where time seems to stand still.

🚝 Kyoto – Hiroshima (2 nights): Next, travel to Hiroshima, the City of Water, where you can reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few structures that survived the 1945 blast. Enjoy panoramic views from Orizuru Tower and take a short trip to nearby Miyajima Island, home to the famous “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.

🚝 Hiroshima – Osaka (1 night): From Hiroshima, continue to Osaka, Japan’s food capital and a lively, fun-loving counterpart to Tokyo. Visit Osaka Castle, enjoy a boat trip along the city’s waterways, and explore the neon-lit streets of Dōtonbori, where restaurants, street food stalls and entertainment line every corner.

🚝 Osaka – Takayama (2 nights): Head back east aboard the famous bullet train before switching lines to reach Takayama, set amid the scenic Japanese Alps. This beautifully preserved Edo-period town offers a glimpse into traditional Japan. Wander the old merchant streets, visit a historic government building from the samurai era, and take a sake brewery tour. Don’t miss the Hida Folk Village, which is an open-air museum showcasing life in Japan’s rural past.

🚝 Takayama – Tokyo (1 night): Return to Tokyo by train for one final night in the capital. Enjoy the city’s endless dining options, lively bars and karaoke joints, or pick up a few last-minute souvenirs before heading home.

✈️ Tokyo – UK: On your final day, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to the UK, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Japan.