CASTLES CUISINE & CUSTOMS OF JAPAN
Exploration
Castles, Cuisine & Customs of Japan
OVERVIEW
From Mt Fuji to Matsumoto, sake tastings to snow monkeys, bamboo groves to bullet trains. Japan is a nation replete with cultural and natural wonders, as alluring as they are distinct. Join us on this exclusive journey reserved for just 24 travellers, where we celebrate the contrast of ancient custom and innovation.
Departing 16 October 2025 — New Release
Tokyo Return
9 Days
Land Exploration
THREE NIGHTS IN TOKYO & KYOTO
Make the most of three nights in each of these world-renowned cities. Enjoy Tokyo’s refined cuisine, striking skylines and unending shopping opportunities. In Kyoto, we see a region revered for its countless shrines and temples, Zen gardens and geisha culture.
FIX YOUR GAZE UPON FUJI
With clear weather on our side, we anticipate a viewing of Mt Fuji’s epic peak; a cruise of Lake Ashi offers us further opportunities. Nearby Owakudani’s scenic walking trails lead us along a route dotted with sulphur vents and hot springs.
SPELLBOUND BY SNOW MONKEYS
Linger awhile in Jigokudani Yaen Koen and watch the spectacle of the resident snow monkeys. These Japanese macaques bathe in the hot springs, drawing an audience of onlookers in the place dubbed ‘Hell’s Valley’.
TRADITION AND TEAHOUSES IN GION
Famed for being Kyoto’s geisha district, Gion also presents an opportunity to absorb old-world Japan. Stroll along its paved walkways, between the wooden facades of traditional teahouses and specialty stores. As day turns to dusk, we may just catch a glimpse of geisha.
VERDANT VIEWS OF A FAMOUS FOREST
Relax as you are guided through Arashiyama’s mesmerising bamboo grove while sitting aboard a comfortable rickshaw. Turn your gaze skyward and admire the towering and graceful stalks, as you weave your way along a path through this dense and tranquil forest.
CULINARY ENCOUNTERS TO SAVOUR
Japan certainly holds its own in the international food stakes. From Tokyo’s time-honoured sushi restaurants and fresh food markets to the pursuit of perfection evidenced in the techniques of Nagano’s wasabi and sake artisans, our palates are satisfied at every turn.
RESIDENCES OF THE HIGHEST STANDARD
PALACE HOTEL, TOKYO
Your welcome to Japan begins as you enjoy panoramic views of the Imperial Palace’s renowned gardens. Pamper yourself at the hotel’s celebrated Evian Spa Tokyo then gaze out to the lights of Shinjuku from your Deluxe King room – perhaps from your private balcony.
TOBIRA ONSEN MYOJINKAN, MATSUMOTO
In Matsumoto, we have the option of staying in a traditional Japanese-style room. Drift off to the sounds of the nearby river in your elegant room adorned with tatami, shoji screen and futon bed. Only a limited number are available.
TOBIRA ONSEN MYOJINKAN, MATSUMOTO
Enjoy views out to the property’s flourishing and verdant grounds, then sleep soundly in these tastefully decorated and spacious rooms. A range of healing baths and hot springs can also be found in and near the hotel.
THE WESTIN MIYAKO HOTEL, KYOTO
The Westin Miyako Hotel is situated in a convenient location, near to the museum, temples and shrines of this revered city. Here, we stay in Deluxe City View Rooms, while the hotel also boasts its own natural hot spring.
ITINERARY
2025 Tour Host Team
Tour Manager Vicky Bryant
