Land of the Rising Sun

Itinerary

Day 1 Tokyo

Beneath the neon lights, high-tech gadgetry and crowded suburbs is a city steeped in ancient tradition. Visit Ueno Park where delicate trees provide a beautiful backdrop to various museums or catch the train to Ginza for some retail opulence.

Days 2-3 Nikko

Boasting some of Japan's most renowned shrines and temples, Nikko houses several sacred sites including the resting places of the Tokugawa shoguns. If ornate architecture and multicoloured carvings don't appeal, hiking the cedar-covered slopes of Mt Nakimushi is a pleasant alternative.

Days 4-5 Hakone

Relax on a cruise across Ashino Lake before enjoying picturesque views of the region from a cable car ride through the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the chance to soak in an outdoor onsen, perhaps followed by a sulphur-boiled egg.

Days 6-7 Takayama

Sake from this region is said to be some of the best, while the traditional markets and food festivals make Takayama a treat to visit all year round. Nestled in the Japanese Alps, the Hida Folk Village is a great place to see traditional life among artisans and thatched-roof houses. Gobble a delicious taiyaki and explore.

Days 8-10 Hiroshima

This reborn city has a vibrant energy that belies its tragic history. The A-Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum make for a moving experience, as does the famous floating torii gate of Miyajima's grand Itsukushima-jinja.

Days 11-14 Kyoto

Gain insight into feudal Japan at Himeji-jo, a splendid castle en route to Japan's ancient capital, Kyoto. Visit to the magnificent gold-plated Kinkaku-ji and wander through the geisha district of Gion before saying sayonara to the Land of the Rising Sun.