Asia · Japan
This bespoke independent itinerary explores the many souls of Japan, stretching from the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo to the solemn atmosphere of Mount Koya.
This bespoke independent itinerary explores the many souls of Japan, stretching from the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo to the solemn atmosphere of Mount Koya. The route winds through iconic coastal cities and the alpine landscapes of Takayama, offering a comprehensive insight into Japanese culture facilitated by the Japan Rail Pass for all inter-city travel.
The journey balances the modernity of districts like Shibuya and Ginza with the profound spirituality of the temples in Kyoto and Nara, enriched by authentic experiences and traditional stays. From the high-octane energy of Osaka to the stillness of the village of Shirakawa-go, every stop is designed to deepen your understanding of local history and heritage.
The programme ensures a perfect equilibrium between independence and expert support, including Italian-speaking assistance upon arrival in Tokyo and the option to add exclusive guided tours. The pace allows for moments of total immersion, such as an overnight stay in a ryokan in the Japanese Alps and a unique experience in a Buddhist monastery on Mount Koya.
14 days in the programme
Upon arrival in Tokyo and after completing customs formalities, you will be met by a local Italian-speaking assistant Upon arrival in Tokyo and after completing customs formalities, you will be met by a local Italian-speaking assistant. Transfer to the city via public transport and check-in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax or begin exploring the local area.
A full day to discover the capital independently A full day to discover the capital independently. You may choose to customise your experience with a guided tour in Italian, visiting famous landmarks such as the Meiji-Jingu Shrine, the dynamic Shibuya Crossing with the Hachiko statue, the elegant Ginza district, and the historic Senso-ji temple in Asakusa. Overnight stay at the hotel.
A free day with the option of a guided excursion to Kamakura, the ancient capital of the Samurai, to admire the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple A free day with the option of a guided excursion to Kamakura, the ancient capital of the Samurai, to admire the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple. The itinerary continues to Enoshima Island to enjoy views of the bay and, weather permitting, Mount Fuji. Return to Tokyo for your overnight stay.
A full day at your disposal in Tokyo to further explore the city according to your own interests, from museums and botanical gardens to shopping and contemporary architecture A full day at your disposal in Tokyo to further explore the city according to your own interests, from museums and botanical gardens to shopping and contemporary architecture. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Independent transfer to the station for your departure to Kyoto aboard the Shinkansen high-speed bullet train, using your included Japan Rail Pass Independent transfer to the station for your departure to Kyoto aboard the Shinkansen high-speed bullet train, using your included Japan Rail Pass. After arrival and hotel check-in, enjoy free time to begin exploring the city's traditional quarters.
A day at leisure to discover Kyoto, with the option of a guided tour in Italian A day at leisure to discover Kyoto, with the option of a guided tour in Italian. Key sites of interest include the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine with its famous red torii gates, the thousand statues of Sanjusangen-do Temple, the renowned Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, and the Zen garden of Ryoan-ji Temple. Overnight stay at the hotel.
A free day with the possibility of a guided excursion to Nara, Japan's first permanent capital A free day with the possibility of a guided excursion to Nara, Japan's first permanent capital. The visit includes Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, Nara Park, where sacred deer roam freely, and the Kasuga Taisha shrine, famous for its thousands of lanterns. Return to Kyoto.
A full day at leisure to experience Kyoto at your own pace A full day at leisure to experience Kyoto at your own pace. We recommend visiting the traditional markets, the numerous gardens, or participating in a tea ceremony to delve deeper into the local culture. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Independent departure by train to Takayama, travelling through the scenic Japanese Alps Independent departure by train to Takayama, travelling through the scenic Japanese Alps. Upon arrival, visit the historic centre characterised by its ancient wooden houses. The evening features an authentic experience with an overnight stay in a ryokan, including a Japanese-style room with tatami and futon, a traditional dinner, and the opportunity to use the onsen.
Independent travel towards Kanazawa Independent travel towards Kanazawa. En route, a stop at Shirakawa-go is highly recommended, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Continue to Kanazawa and check-in to your hotel.
Time at leisure to visit Kanazawa, including highlights such as the Kenroku-en Garden, the Higashi Chaya geisha district, and the Omicho Market Time at leisure to visit Kanazawa, including highlights such as the Kenroku-en Garden, the Higashi Chaya geisha district, and the Omicho Market. Afterwards, transfer independently to Osaka using the Japan Rail Pass and check-in to your hotel.
Transfer to Mount Koya, the spiritual heart of Japanese Buddhism Transfer to Mount Koya, the spiritual heart of Japanese Buddhism. We recommend visiting the Kongobu-ji Temple and the various monumental areas. The day concludes with a stay in a shukubo (temple lodging), which includes a traditional monastic dinner.
In the morning, there is the opportunity to attend the monks' prayer ceremony In the morning, there is the opportunity to attend the monks' prayer ceremony. Afterwards, return to Osaka. The rest of the day is free to explore the vibrant urban life of the Namba and Dotonbori districts. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Free time until your independent transfer to Kansai International Airport in time for your onward flight.
Sri Lanka
Discover the ancient history and rural traditions of Sri Lanka on a journey that winds from historic capitals to the verdant interior highlands.
Malaysia
This itinerary journeys through the heart of Malaysian Borneo, artfully blending the wildlife exploration of Sabah with the serene, pristine shores of Pom Pom Island.
Thailand
An itinerary through the heart of Thailand, starting in vibrant Bangkok and heading north through world-class archaeological sites and lush natural landscapes.