Japan, Past and Present: Kyoto, Kamakura and Tokyo (including Mt. Fuji tour)
Day 1 - London Heathrow to Kyoto
Depart London Heathrow for international flight to Osaka Kansai international airport.
Day 2 - Kyoto arrival
Arrive at Osaka Kansai International Airport. Take own taxi or shuttle bus to Kyoto city centre. There you
will check into a traditional style Japanese inn (Ryokan).
This evening enjoy a tour of the Geisha District. (B/D)
Day 3 - Kyoto
Today enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto which will include Nijo Castle, the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa Shogun in 1603, noted for the contrast of its solemn appearance and gorgeous interiors. Then continue to the Golden Pavillion, with the most authentic and exquisite Japanese style garden. Enjoy a buffet lunch and shopping at the Kyoto Handicraft Centre. After lunch you will visit the Heian Shrine, a brightly coloured shrine with vermillion pillars and green roof, with enchanting inner gardens and ponds.
Later this afternoon the tour continues with Sanju-Sangendo Hall and Kiyomizu Temple, where you will enjoy a sweeping view of the entire city from its lofty terrace, surrounded by a quaint old lane lined with pottery shops. (B/L)
Day 4 - Kyoto
Today is free to explore the many other wonderful sights and temples in this traditional old city. (B)
Day 5 - Kyoto to Kamakura
Today we take a ride on Japan's famous Bullet Train to Shinagawa station– reaching speeds up to 300
kilometers per hour. From Shinagawa take connecting Yokosuka local train to Kamakura. Upon arrival
take own taxi to the Kamakura Prince Hotel, where each room boasts of wonderful sea-views.
The hotel is a few minutes walk from Shichirigahama Station on the Enoden Line, where 3 short stops
takes you to Hase Station, where you can visit the many wonderful temples. These include the Kotokuin
Temple (famous for the giant Buddha statue) and the Hasedera Temple. Another 3 short stops further
takes you into the heart of Kamakura, where you will find many temples, shrines and museums. (B)
Day 6 - Kamakura
Another day free in this wonderful seaside retreat to either relax or explore the many wonderful sights
and sounds of Kamakura. (B)
Day 7 - Kamakura to Tokyo
This morning take train journey to Kamakura Station, where you will then connect to the JR Yokosuka
Line train to Shinbashi. Upon arrival take own taxi to the Keio Plaza Hotel in the city centre. The hotel
is located in the skyscraper Shinjuku district directly opposite the Tokyo Metropolitan Government
buildings. Shinjuku is the most modern area of Tokyo. (B)
Day 8 - Tokyo
Start this morning with a tour to Tokyo Tower and enjoy a panoramic view from its observatory. Then
you will continue to the "Happoen" Japanese Garden, where you will have the opportunity to take part in
a traditional tea ceremony. The tour then continues to the Imperial Palace Plaza with a short photo stop.
You will then have a barbecue lunch at Chinzanso Restaurant. After lunch you will drive past the
National Diet Building (the Japanese House of Parliament) and then take a 40 minute Sumida River
Cruise from Hinode pier of Tokyo Bay to Asakusa.
The tour finishes with a visit to the Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street. (B/L)
Day 9 - Tokyo
Today we take a deluxe motorcoach drive along the expressway to Mt. Fuji. We visit the Fuji Visitor
Centre and then drive halfway up Mt. Fuji to the 5th Station, enjoying the natural scenery en route. We
then stop for lunch at the Hotel Highland Resort, before continuing to Lake Ashi for a relaxing cruise.
We then take a ride on the Mt. Komagatake Aerial Cableway, where we will get sweeping views of the
celebrated Hakone National Park and Mt. Fuji from a distance. Return to Tokyo late afternoon/early
evening. (B/L)
Day 10 - Tokyo to London Heathrow
Today take own taxi or bus to Tokyo Narita International airport for your return flight to London. (B)
Package Price on Enquiry
Price includes:
- International return economy flights from London;
- Accommodation in city centre (on twin share basis);
- Tours where indicated;
- Meals as described;
- Airport taxes;
- Bullet Train (Shinkansen) pass.
Price excludes:
- Transfers to and from airports, stations and accommodation.
- Travel insurance (can be arranged - please ask for details)
- Train and taxi fares.
More information on Holidays to Japan.
