Luxury Tours

1-Month Luxury Tour

*Prices and inclusions are subject to change.

Experience Japan's main island to its fullest with our one whole month exploring the north, south and everywhere in between. This tour features a number of rest days - a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.

*inclusions shown in the bullet points - package does not include airfares

Day 01 - Arrive Tokyo

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Narita International Airport clear customs with your luggage and make your way to the Arrivals Lobby.

Board your private transfer to your accommodation at the Sakura Prince Tower Tokyo, one of Marriot's Autograph Collection hotels. Enjoy a relaxing stay in spacious guestrooms and a lush, verdant setting.

Take a short walk, or board the courtesy shuttle bus to Shinagawa Station to issue your Japan Rail Pass.

Shinagawa is the ideal place to stay for its convenient access to wide range of restaurants and shops. Shinagawa Station is a major stop on the JR Yamanote Line loop system which circumnavigates Tokyo.

Stay: Sakura Prince Tower - 1/3

Day 02 - Tokyo

Meet your private tour guide this morning who will assist with your initial navigation of Tokyo for a half day visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine, Senso-ji Temple and Harajuku.

Post tour, board a train to the Ginza shopping district. Take time to explore the Ginza's famous upmarket shopping, numerous department stores and wide range of boutiques, galleries and dining. The basement of any Japanese department store is home to an incredible food court where foods are expertly prepared and presented for sale.

Next, travel to Ueno Station and visit the Ameyoko Ueno Markets. There are over 500 shops that sell everything from basic foods to high-class imported goods at reasonable prices and is always crowded with local shoppers.

In the evening return to Shinagawa Station using the JR Yamanote Line.

Stay: Sakura Prince Tower - 2/3

Day 03 - Tokyo - Kamakura - Tokyo

Take a day trip to the seaside town called Kamakura. Located just 45 minutes from Shinagawa Station on the Yokosuka Line, Kamakura is one of Japan's most popular sightseeing destinations, famous for a number of temples, shrines and beautiful Japanese gardens.

Surrounded by wooded mountains on three sides and Sagami Bay on the south, Kamakura was once the capital of Japan from 1192 to 1333.

Many of the wonderful sites in Kamakura are within walking distance of Kamakura Station, so one can easily spend the day exploring the many temples, shrines, parks and gardens. Some of the sites you might like to visit include:

The Great Buddha, a giant bronze statue of Buddha which stands at 13.35m tall and is the second largest in Japan. The Buddha once was housed inside a temple, but late in the 15th century, a large tsunami washed away the wooden structure and the Buddha has remained outside ever since.

Komachi-dori St, leading out from Kamakura Station, is a strip of shops which has many great places to buy souvenirs and a number of good places to buy some snacks, from nuts and crackers, to cute little cakes and sweets.

Hasedera Temple, situated high on a hill, whose main temple has a fine view of the coastal city. The temple is home to a wooden statue of Kannon, the 11-headed goddess of mercy which stands at 9m high.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, whose iconic Shinto shrine is Kamakura's geographical and cultural centre and attracts many visitors with its beautiful peony gardens and two museums, the Museum of Modern Art and the Kamakura Museum of National Treasures.

Hokoku-ji Temple, the must-see Zen temple in Kamakura. Behind the temple is a magnificent bamboo garden which is tranquil escape. Towards the back of the bamboo garden is a small tea house where you can enjoy a special cup of green tea while taking in the beauty of the serene surroundings.

Return to Tokyo in the late afternoon.

Stay: Sakura Prince Tower - 3/3

Day 04 - Tokyo - Hakone

Check out of the Sakura Prince Tower Hotel and board a Kodama bullet train from Shinagawa Station to Odawara Station. (35 min)

At Odawara Station, purchase a 3 Day Hakone Free Pass which entitles the holder to 3 days of unlimited travel on a variety of local transport including the unique mountain railway, bus, cable car, ropeway and cruise boat. Use your pass to also gain discounted entry at the regions many hot springs, museums, galleries, gardens, temples and shrines.

From Odawara Station board the hotel courtesy bus to your accommodation at the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa. Set in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa offers a hot-spring getaway with relaxing, serene spaces, plenty of nature, and warm hospitality.

The national park, which is encircled by forested mountains and deep ravines, features extraordinary views (weather permitting) of Mount Fuji and the Japan Alps, making this a magnificent scene to remember.

Spend the remainder of the day exploring the many sights of this spectacular resort town.

Stay: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa - 1/2

Day 05 - Hakone

Using your "Hakone Free Pass" and the provided tourist maps & brochures explore some of the many sites of the Hakone region, including:

Lake Ashi: The 400,000 year-old volcanic crater lake that never freezes! Ashiko is a popular place for fishing, boating and water sports. Use your Hakone Pass to cruise the lake by pirate ship. On a clear day you will be able to take pleasure in Mt. Fuji's inverted reflection.

Owakudani (Greater Boiling Valley): Accessible by ropeway this entire gorge reeks of sulphurous fumes, spewing clouds of steam from crevasses among bubbling hot springs.

Ancient Cedar Avenue: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this superb 2km flora-lined winding passage; once the pathway to Tokyo.

Stay: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa - 2/2

Day 06 - Hakone - Takayama

Check out of the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa and board the courtesy bus back to Odawara Station. From Odawara Station board a Hikari bullet train to Nagoya. (70 mins) Change trains within Nagoya Station and board a Limited Express (Wide View) Hida train to Takayama. (150 mins)

This magnificent train journey through the Japanese Alps is often compared to the Alps of Europe. It may well be one of the highlights of your trip to Japan.

Takayama is a traditional medieval town located in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture. Most of the attractions are concentrated in the old part of town, within minutes of each other.

Upon arrival at Takayama Station, board the hotel courtesy shuttle bus to your accommodation at the Takayama Green Hotel. Your stay at the Takayama Green Hotel is in their newest building, the Orinkaku, which features spacious, modern rooms.

After check in, enjoy an afternoon stroll around this museum like town with a number of attractions including a variety of small museums devoted to traditional crafts embodying the town's long standing tradition of fine craftsmanship. Visit the old private houses that lie in the area between Miyagawa River and the famously lush and picturesque Shiroyama Park. This quiet, residential area has shops selling traditional wares, antique shops, Japanese-style inns, sake breweries and restaurants serving local specialties.

Stay: Takayama Green Hotel - 1/2

Day 07 - Takayama - Shirakawago - Takayama

Today visit Shirakawago and Ainokura on your private taxi tour operated by Nohi Bus.

Your private driver will collect you from your hotel and will take you to the traditional UNESCO World Heritage villages Shirakawago and Ainokura. Located in a gorgeous mountain valley, the natural setting is divine. Admire the panoramic view over the Shirakawago area from the observation deck before exploring the villlages where you will find traditional ""gassho zukkuri"" houses, some which have been renovated into museums, shops and cafes.

For dinner tonight we recommend you walk in to town and try one of the many restaurants which specialise in the Japanese ""hida beef"" which is delicious in sukiyaki or grilled on a hotplate.

Stay: Takayama Green Hotel - 2/2

Day 08 - Takayama - Kanazawa

Check out from your accommodation and from Takayama Station, board the Hida Wide View train to Toyama. (150 mins) Within Toyama Station change trains and board a Tsurugi bullet train to Kanazawa Station. (25 mins)

Your accommodation at the Hotel Nikko Kanazawa is a two minute walk from the East Exit of Kanazawa Station.

Kanazawa, often referred to as ""little Kyoto"", is a lovely seaside town with a number of hidden treasures. After check in, spend the afternoon exploring the city of Kanazawa.

Your sightseeing should include a trip to the Omicho Market which is a 10 minute walk or 3 minute taxi or bus ride from Kanazawa Station. Omicho is the liveliest of all markets in Kanazawa and is popular with the residents of the city. many of the 170 shops specialise in fresh fish and vegetables. Lovers of seafood will delight in some of the surrounding sushi bars and restaurants that serve fresh seafood from off the coast of Kanazawa. For those who prefer their seafood cooked, tempura and grilled options are available.

For a rare look inside Japan's traditional entertainment culture, make a visit to Kanazawa's famous ""Higashi Geisha District"" where you can walk down the winding lanes which features rows of old geisha houses. Late in the afternoon and early evening you may see a geisha scampering between appointments in full traditional costume. Shima, a former geisha house, is open for public viewing (9am to 6pm) where you can also enjoy a cup of green tea and a traditional Japanese sweet.

Stay: Hotel Nikko Kanazawa - 1/2

Day 09 - Kanazawa

Continue your exploration of Kanazawa today by visiting one of Japan's top three most beautiful gardens - Kenrokuen, which is a 15 minute bus ride from Kanazawa Station.

Kenrokuen is an exquisite garden constructed over 300 years ago and is said to be one of the three most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan along with Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama. The literal meaning of Kenrokuen is ""The Garden of Six Sublimities"" which refers to its spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water and broad views. It took 150 years to complete the ponds, streams, waterfalls, flowers and teahouses which are all truly breathtaking.

Surrounding Kenrokuen is a number of popular sightseeing sports including Kanazawa Castle Park, Kanazawa Museum of Art, 21st Century Museum of Modern Art and the Kanko Bussankan where local Ishikawa traditional crafts, confectionary and sake are sold.

In the evening make your way to the bright lights of Katamachi which is Kanazawa's lively entertainment district. The area's ""Izakayas"" (Japanese-style pubs) are a must to visit where cold drinks and inexpensive dishes are served.

Stay: Hotel Nikko Kanazawa - 2/2

Day 10 - Kanazawa - Hiroshima

Check-out of your accommodation and from Kanazawa Station board the Limited Express Thunderbird train to Shin-Osaka Station. (160 mins) CHange trains and board a Sakura bullet train to Hiroshima Station. (90 mins)

Your accommodation at the Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel is a 2 minute walk from Hiroshima Station. Enjoy a relaxing stay in rooms featuring Sheraton's Signature Sleep Experience beds and signature bath products.

Hiroshima was a city left in ashes after the Atomic bomb was dropped. Hiroshima has made a remarkable recovery and has been rebuilt as a modern thriving city. The area which felt the full force of the bomb has been transformed into a Peace Memorial Park with gardens of great beauty and nearly forty memorials to the victims of the atomic explosion. Hiroshima is now known as the "International City of Peace" dedicated to a total ban on the use of Atomic weapons. A visit to the Peace Memorial Park should be included in every Hiroshima itinerary. To visit the Park, board a tram in front of Hiroshima Station and get off at Genbaku Dome-mae (Atomic Bomb Dome) stop. (15 mins)

Using your tour map, visit a number of exhibits including the Atomic Bomb Dome: Positioned below the epicentre, this skeleton of melted steel and concrete has been left as it was after the bomb was dropped. It stands as a stark reminder of the city's August 6, 1945 bombing.

The highlight of the Park is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. This state of the art museum focuses on Hiroshima both before and after the explosion. It also tells the story of Hiroshima's rapid rebuild into the beautiful city it is today.

On the way back to station, make sure you visit Hiroshima Castle. This castle was first built in 1589 until its destruction in 1945. Having been rebuilt in all its glory, it is now used to exhibit historic artefacts from Japan's feudal past.

Stay: Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel - 1/3

Day 11 - Hiroshima / Miyajima Island

Enjoy a day of exploration upon the sacred earth of Miyajima Island (Shrine Island).

From Hiroshima Station board the JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi Station. (26 min) Miyajima is reached by JR ferryboat (10 mins / using your JR Pass) from Miyajimaguchi Pier, a few minutes walk from Miyajimaguchi Station.

The entire 30 sq. km. island is designated by the Japanese government as a Special Historic Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty. The must-see Itsukushima Shrine, built in the sixth century, is dedicated to the maritime guardian goddesses. The shrine buildings are connected by corridors which stretch out over the water giving it the appearance of floating on the sea at high tide. The giant red wooden O-Torii (Grand Gate) is the most noted symbol of Miyajima.

Be sure to take the 1.7km ropeway (JPY 1,800 round trip) to Mount Misen's summit to absorb one of the three most spectacular panoramic views in Japan. Keep your eye on the summit's mischievous monkeys before descending on a peaceful walk through the ancient forest.

Return to Hiroshima early evening to feast upon the city's popular delicacy Okonomiyaki - a savoury, layered noodle pancake cooked on an iron hotplate at your table. The locals are very proud of their contribution to Japanese cuisine!

Stay: Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel - 2/3

Day 12 - Hiroshima

Enjoy a rest day in Hiroshima.

For those keen to keep exploring, the historic town of Iwakuni is just 40 minutes from Hiroshima. Known for Kintaikyo Bridge, and elegant wooden arched bridge, Iwakuni also features a castle and samurai residences related to its feudal history.

Alternatively, board a bullet train to Himeji to visit the exquisite, Himeji Castle. This National Treasure is considered to be one of Japan's most spectacular castles for its imposing size, beauty and its well preserved, complex castle grounds.

Stay: Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel - 3/3

Day 13 - Hiroshima - Tomonoura

From Hiroshima Station board a Sakura bullet train to Fukuyama Station. (25 mins) Board your courtesy shuttle bus to your accommodation at the Hotel Ofutei. (30 mins)

Located in Tomonura, a picturesque port town featured in numerous TV dramas and films, the Ofutei features guests rooms with magnificent views of the Seto Inland Sea.

After check-in, spend the afternoon exploring the small, scenic port town and enjoy the beauty of the calm sea, lush islands, and historical Edo Period buildings.

Stay: Hotel Ofutei - 1/2

Day 14 - Tomonoura - Kurashiki - Tomonoura

Board the courtesy shuttle bus to Fukuyama Station and from Fukuyama Station board JR Sanyo Line train to Kurashiki Station. (45 mins)

Upon arrival in Kurashiki, walk 15 minutes from the South Exit to the Arts and Culture Precinct (Bikan Chiku), where you will find several dozen old-style houses which have been converted into museums, craft shops and cafes. These are located along a quaint, tree-lined canal in the historic arts and culture district.

Some places of interest in Kurashiki include the following (all found within the 'Bikan Chiku' area):

Kurashiki Museum of Folkcraft (09:00 - 17:00/JPY700) - consists of three two-storied rice granaries re-styled into Edo Period museums. Some 4,000 folk-craft objects are shown, including ceramics, rugs, fancy mats, wooden ware, bamboo ware, textiles and other products from Japan and other countries.

Kurashiki Archaeological Museum (09:00 - 17:00/JPY400) - Opened in 1950, this white-walled storehouse exhibits more than 1,400 archaeological relics unearthed in this district.

Ohara House - with its white walls and unique Kurashiki-style windows and latticework, this classic example of a Kurashiki merchant house is still in its original state.

Japan Toy Museum (09:00 - 17:00/JPY400) - exhibits rural toys from around Japan dating back to 1603

Wander through this historical city on foot, taking in the beautiful townscape.

Stay: Hotel Ofutei - 2/2

Day 15 - Tomonoura - Kyoto

Check-out of your accommodation and board the courtesy shuttle bus back to Fukuyama Station. (30 mins) From Fukuyama Station board a Sakura bullet train to Shin-Kobe Station (55 mins) and change to board a Hikari bullet train to Kyoto Station. (30 mins)

Your accommodation at The Thousand Kyoto is a 2 minute walk from the Central Exit of the station.

After check in, commence exploring the sights of Japan's old capital. Board a subway train 2 stops to Shijo Station for the busiest shopping district in Kyoto. There are a number of cafes, restaurants and shops to explore. Next, walk down to the Nishiki Food Market. (10 mins from Shijo Station) Here you can try various Japanese foods from traditional sweets to fresh seafood.

In the late afternoon walk towards Gion, Kyoto's famous entertainment district which is open until late at night. Gion is the one place in Japan where you may see Maiko or Geisha scampering between appointments. As darkness falls, watch the traditional lanterns gradually come to life as you wander down tiny alleys housing a variety of restaurants offering tempting cuisine.

Stay: The Thousand Kyoto - 1/4

Day 16 - Kyoto Tour with Driver Guide

From 08:30am, meet your local English speaking Driver-Guide in the lobby of your hotel. From the comfort of your own private vehicle, commute around Kyoto and visit many of the famous highlights of this ancient city.

During your 7 hour Tour you will visit:
Kinkakuji Temple (World Heritage Site)
A gold leaf covered shiny pavilion with a tranquil Japanese garden
Ginkakuji Temple (World Heritage Site)
Experiencing the magnificent beauty of Japanese gardens.
Ryoanji Temple (World Heritage Site)
Experiencing the Zen of a beautiful Japanese rock garden.
Nijo Castle (World Heritage Site)
Take a time slip back to the Edo period and explore this gorgeous palace.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (World Heritage Site)
Marvel at this enormous wooden temple built on the top of a cliff.
Visit traditional shops and tea houses along the way to the temple.

In the late afternoon return to Kyoto Station. Be sure to visit the Sky Plaza Observation Deck on top of Kyoto Station for a free panoramic view of the surrounding area of Kyoto. This modern station also contains a large shopping mall, specialty shops and restaurants.

Stay: The Thousand Kyoto - 2/4

Day 17 - Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto

A full day of sightseeing awaits you in Nara. But first, take a trip to visit Kyoto's famous Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Anyone who has seen Memoirs of a Geisha will be familiar with the thousands of red Torii gates which stretch towards Mt Inari.

From Kyoto Station, board the JR Nara Line to Inari Station. (5 min) Follow the signs and the walking path leading up to the shrine. It is one of the oldest Shinto Shrines in Kyoto and is famous for its thousand red torii gates which lead up the mountain. The shrine is dedicated to Inari - the Shinto god of rice, commerce and business. Each of the torii gates have been donated by different Japanese businesses.

From JR Inari Station continue on to Nara. (70 min) Here, you can find peace of mind and natural beauty as you uncover the many treasures of Japans former capital (710-784AD).

From Nara Station all of the sightseeing is within comfortable walking distance. Walk through the town towards Nara Park. Should the weather be kind you may like to have your lunch in the picturesque Nara Park amongst the many tame deer that roam the area. At the end of the Park is the World Heritage listed cultural asset Todaiji Temple - the worlds largest wooden building, which houses the Giant Buddha that soars 16 metres in height. Return to Nara Station via Nara-machi, an old precinct full of traditional houses, shops and tearooms in calm and pleasant surroundings, giving a good contrast to the great temples and old burial mounds.

Board a JR Nara Line train back to Kyoto Station in the evening.

Stay: The Thousand Kyoto - 3/4

Day 18 - Kyoto

Today, make a trip out to the Arashiyama area.

From Kyoto Station board a JR Sanin-Main Line (Sagano Line) train to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. (15 min)

Arashiyama is particularly famous for its beautiful scenery. Visit Tenryuji-Temple (8:30am - 17:30pm/JPY500). The main attraction of the temple is the Zen garden dating back to the 14th century.

Leave Tenryuji-Temple to head down to the bamboo groves and peer up at the towering bamboo from the narrow pathway. The bamboo is used to manufacture many local products such as baskets, cups and boxes.

Other places of interest in the Arashiyama area include Togetsukyo Bridge and the Monkey Park atop Mt. Iwatayama (09:00 - 17:00/JPY550).

In the late afternoon, return to your accommodation by boarding a JR San-in Main Line (Sagano) train from Saga Arashiyama Station back to Kyoto. (16 mins)

Stay: The Thousand Kyoto - 4/5

Day 19 - Kyoto

Take a rest day in the historic and cultural city of Kyoto.

For those interested in seeing more of Kyoto, the Fushimi sake district and the temples of the Higashiyama district are easy to access and offer more opportunity to explore.

Kyoto also boasts easy access to a wide range of day-trip destinations including bustling Osaka, the picturesque Kinosaki Onsen, mystic Mount Koya and the attractive harbor city of Kobe.

Stay: The Thousand Kyoto - 5/5

Day 20 - Kyoto - Nikko

Check out of your accommodation and from Kyoto Station board a Hikari bullet train to Tokyo Station. (160 mins) Change trains and board a Yamabiko bullet train to Utsunomiya Station. (50 mins) From Utsunomiya Station board a JR Nikko Line train to Nikko Station. (45 mins)

The city of Nikko lies at the foot of Mt. Nyoho and is renowned worldwide for the architectural facilities of Toshogu and Futarasan Shrines and Rinnoji Temple, each set gemlike in a perfect natural setting.

Board a taxi to your accommodation at the Fufu Nikko. (8 mins)

Located within walking distance from Nikko's World Heritage listed sites, the Fufu Nikko is ideally situated for your Nikko sightseeing.

All guest rooms are suites with private, natural hot spring baths and are decorated with elegant colours and furnishings.

After check-in, venture out to Lake Chuzenji by boarding a Tobu Nikko Bus from to Chuzenji Onsen bus stop. (45 mins) From here you can walk to Kegon Falls and Fune-No-Eki cruise boat pier. Kegon Falls, 97 metres in height, is one of Japan's finest waterfalls (originating from Lake Chuzenji). Descend 100 metres by elevator through the bedrock to the lookout point at the base of the gorge to see the falls plummeting downward into Lake Chuzenji's beautiful indigo blue water.

To enjoy more of the lake's scenery a 50 minute sightseeing cruise is highly recommended. Regular boat service on the lake connects Fune-No-Eki with Shobugahama in 20 minutes.

Stay: Fufu Nikko - 1/2

Day 21 - Nikko

Start today with a visit to the famous and historic Rinnoji Temple, used to receive princes from the Imperial family as priests during the Kamakura period (1192-1333).

The nearby Futarasan Jinja Shrine is is said to bring happiness and marriage for those who visit. Legend has it that the Futara-Reisen, the sacred fountain there, has water that restores youth.

Next visit the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, the former summer villa of the imperial family. The villa was constructed using part of the residence belonging to the Tokugawa clan which was transported from Tokyo, and served as a hide-out for Emperor Hirohito during World War II.

Return to your accommodation in the afternoon to join your private tour of the Nikko Toshogu Shrine which is dedicated to the shogunate Tokugawa Ieyasu. On this private tour with a designated guide, you are allowed to visit the shogunate's room (Shogun-no-ma) during times when there are few tourists.

Stay: Fufu Nikko - 2/2

Day 22 - Nikko - Sendai

Check-out of your accommodation and from Nikko Station board a JR Nikko Line train to Utsunomiya Station. (40 mins) Change trains and board a Yamabiko bullet train to Sendai Station. (100 mins)

Your accommodation at the Westin Sendai is a 9 minute walk from the West Exit of the station.

A city sightseeing loop bus, the Loople Sendai, departs from JR Sendai Station (West Exit) bus stop #16 and does a one-hour loop around a number of major attractions. An all-day pass can be purchased for JPY620.

Board the bus to visit:

Zuihoden Mausoleum (09:00 - 16:30/JPY550) - the ornate Zuihoden Mausoleum features intricate, and brightly coloured woodwork, and is site where Date Masamune, one of the most powerful feudal lords during the Edo period, is entombed.

Sendai City Museum (09:00 - 16:15/JPY400) - features a number of exhibits relating to various aspects of Sendai's history. Here you will find the suit of armour belonging to Date Masamune, which is a Important Cultural Asset, on display.

Osaki Hachimangu Shrine - a beautiful shrine covered mostly in black lacquer and decorated with gold leaf. Designated as a National Treasure, it enshrines the guardian deity of the Date family.

For dinner tonight, visit one of the restaurants on Gyutan Dori (Beef Tongue Street) for Sendai's most popular delicacy. Most commonly grilled on a barbeque, many restaurants will also serve it on top of rice, in a curry or in a stew.

Stay: Westin Sendai - 1/3

Day 23 - Sendai - Matsushima - Sendai

From Sendai Station board a JR Senseki Line train to Matsushima Kaigan Station. (40 mins) From here it is a ten minute walk to Zuiganji Temple. (08:00 - 15:30/JPY700)

Originally established in 828AD, Zuiganji is one of the most important Zen Buddhist temples in northern Japan. Built at the end of a period of long, civil wars, the temple features a watchtower and nightingale alarm floors which are more commonly defence features found in castles. The temple is surrounded by small caves where monks once lived and prayed.

Next, visit Etsuin Temple (08:30 - 16:00/JPY300), a short walk from Zuiganji. Etsuin Temple is home to the mausoleum of samurai ruler, Date Masamune's grandson, who died mysteriously at age 19. The Mausoleum is decorated with western designs and symbols brought back from Europe on a trade mission sent by Date Masamune.

Enjoy a hot matcha green tea and Japanese sweet at the Kanrantei Tea House. (08:30 - 16:30/JPY150 entry; JPY300-700 for tea) *Place your tea and sweet orders at the ticket booth. The Kanrantei Tea House is the tea house of the ruling Date family and once served tea to samurai and royal guests. Now the tea house is open to the public and overlooks Matsushima Bay.

Take a sightseeing boat trip around Matsushima Bay and its 260 islands. A number of companies offer 50 minute cruises that depart from the pier next to the rest house. (departs hourly 09:00 - 15:00/JPY1,500)

Stay: Westin Sendai - 2/3

Day 24 - Sendai

Enjoy a rest day in Sendai.

Browse the shops in town, or visit the outlet malls for a bargain.

Or, to experience some of northern Japan's beautiful countryside, board a JR Senzan Line train from Sendai Station to Yamadera Station. (62 mins/JPY840)

Officially known as Risshakuji Temple (08:00-17:00/JPY300), Yamadera (its common name, meaning "Temple Mountain") is a temple sprawled across a mountainside, designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty. A hike up 1,000 stone steps will take you to the upper part of the temple grounds which offers spectacular views.

Stay: Westin Sendai - 3/3

Day 25 - Sendai - Hirosaki

Pack an overnight bag and visit the hotel front desk to arrange for your larger suitcases to be sent to your accommodation in Tokyo.

Check out of the Westin Sendai and from Sendai Station board a Hayabusa bullet train to Shin-Aomori Station. (120 mins) Change trains and board a JR Ou Line train to Hirosaki Station. (30 mins)

Hirosaki is a small castle town in Aomori with a varied architectural heritage featuring temples, samurai residences and a castle from the Edo period, and churches, libraries and civic buildings from the Meiji Period when many foreign scholars were invited to Hirosaki.

Board the Dote-Machi city sightseeing loop bus from in front of Hirosaki Station to Shiyakusho-mae bus stop. (15 mins) From here it is a two minute walk to the Otemon Gate of Hirosaki Castle (09:00 - 17:00/JPY310). Built in 1611, this castle of the Tsugaru Clan is one of the 12 remaining original castles in Japan.

Visit the Tsugaru-han Neputa Village (09:00 - 17:00/JPY550) where you can watch as artists create traditional crafts, and enjoy a performance of the Tsugaru-jamisen, a three-stringed folk instrument.

A short walk from here is the Nakacho Traditional Buildings Preservation District where the traditional townscape has been maintained. Visit the Kawasaki Dyeing Plant where the traditional art of natural indigo dyeing is still carried out.

Later, return to Hirosaki Station and board a JR Ou Line train to Owani Onsen Station. (10 mins)

At Owani Onsen Station, boar your courtesy shuttle to your accommodation at the Hoshino Resorts Kai Tsugaru.

The Kai Tsugaru ryokan is a contemporary, boutique accommodation designed for guests to get the most out of the local culture, from apple-scented baths fed by the famous Owani Hot Spring to Tsugaru shamisen lute concerts in front of walls depicting Tsugaru's dynamic coastal scenery.

Stay: Hoshino Resort KAI Tsugaru - 1/2

Day 26 - Hirosaki

Start today by boarding a Konan Railway Konan Line train from Hirosaki Station to Tambo Art Station. (23 mins/JPY430)

From here it is a short walk to one of the two famous Rice Paddy Art sites, for which the prefecture of Aomori is famous for. Since 1993, the small town of Inakadate has been creating images in their rice paddy fields by carefully planting rice of varying colour. In their first year, they used two colours, yellow and purple, to create a simple image of Mt. Iwaki. Each following year, the designs become more elaborate and now consist of 7 colours and 11 variety of rice. The images can be seen from June to mid-October, but are best from mid-July to mid-August. Entry to the viewing platform is JPY300.

A courtesy shuttle bus departs every 30 mins from this art site and will take you to the second site. (10 mins)

OR

From Owani Onsen Station board a Limited Express Tsugaru train to Aomori Station. (43 mins)

Visit Nebuta Warasse (09:00 - 19:00/JPY600) which is a one minute walk from the station, to view the large, glowing floats used in Aomori's Nebuta Festival. Get a taste of the lively festival atmosphere and learn about the history and traditions of one of Tohoku's 'Big Three Summer Festivals'.

For lunch, visit the Furukawa Fish Market (07:00 - 16:00) where you can create your own nokkedon, or bowl of rice topped with fresh seafood. Purchase tickets in sets of five (JPY540) or ten (JPY1,080) which are exchanged for rice and various seafood toppings sold in the market.

Stay: Hoshino Resorts KAI Tsugaru - 2/2

Day 27 - Hirosaki - Tokyo

Check-out of your accommodation and board the courtesy shuttle to Owani Onsen Station. From Owani Onsen Station board a Limited Express Tsugaru train to Shin-Aomori Station. (40 mins) Transfer to the shinkansen lines and board a Hayabusa bullet train to Tokyo Station. (190 mins) Change trains and board a Hikari bullet train to Shinagawa Station. (5 mins)

Check-in for your second stay at the Sakura Prince Tower.

Stay: Sakura Prince Tower - 1/3

Day 28 - Tokyo

Take a rest day in the modern city of Tokyo.

Stay: Sakura Prince Tower - 2/3

Day 28 - Tokyo

Continue your exploration of Tokyo with a trip to Odaiba - the huge amusement zone where you can enjoy shopping, delicious food, entertainment, and a view of Tokyo Bay simultaneously.

From Shinagawa Station board a JR Yamanote Line train to Shimbashi Station. (7 mins) At Shimbashi Station, board the Yurikamome Line unmanned monorail across the 918 metre span Rainbow Bridge to Daiba Station. (14 min)

Odaiba was built on reclaimed land in the Tokyo Bay in the southeast of Tokyo. This ultra-modern island is home to the Fuji TV Studio, Toyota Motor Company Showcase, Palette Town, Giant Ferris Wheel, the Museum of Maritime Science, Odaiba Marine Park, and the Sega Game Centre. A visit to the Oedo Onsen Monogatari volcanic hot springs (JPY2,700) is an excellent way to soak away the stresses of exhilarating travel. Luxuriate in open air, foot, sand and steam baths, tatami rooms and massage salons. The hot water spouts up naturally from 1400 meters below the surface.

Later in the day, return to Shimbashi Station and board the JR Yamanote Line train to Shinjuku Station - the busiest train station in Japan. Take time to explore some of the great shopping that surrounds the station. A walk to Takashimaya Times Square and an exploration of a shop called Tokyu Hands which sells a range of unique gadgets is recommended.

From the West Exit of Shinjuku Station walk 10 minutes through the high-rise business district to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office Building to view the city skyline which is best seen at night. (9:30am-10:30pm / free entry)

Return to Shinagawa from Shinjuku on the JR Yamanote Line. (20 mins)

Stay: Sakura Prince Tower - 3/3

Day 30 - Depart Tokyo

Check out of the Sakura Prince Tower and store your luggage at the porter's desk.

Spend your last day in Tokyo completing any final sightseeing or shopping.

Return to collect your luggage and board your private transfer to the airport.