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The Very Best of Japan
20 days from only £6,995 £6,595 per person
Early Booking Offers: SAVE £200 per person
on Japan tours departing from September 2026. Book by 30th November 2025.
Early Booking Offers: SAVE £400 per person
on The Very Best of Japan tour departures from January 2027. Book by 30th November 2025.
The Very Best of Japan Tour
20-day The Very Best of Japan from £6,995pp £6,595pp
From the kimono-clad geisha who grace Kyoto’s streets, to Tokyo’s modern neon-lit metropolis, what makes Japan so unique is its ability to hold on to age-old customs and timeless traditions, yet entwine them seamlessly into modern-day living. With stunning landscapes and delicious regional cuisines, a plethora of historic shrines and temples, it’s no wonder Japan is considered one of the world’s great touring destinations.
Our leisurely 20-day tour has been carefully crafted to blend this fascinating mix of ancient and modern along with all of the country’s major attractions. Add to this the magnificent beauty of the Japanese Alps, picturesque gardens, ancient castles and unique Japanese experiences, this incredible tour combines the very best this country has to offer.
With quality accommodation, all breakfasts and many other meals included, The Very Best of Japan tour really does offer exceptional value for money.
Take advantage of our Special Offers and save up to £400 per person.
Itinerary
Expand All Days
Day 1
Depart UK
Depart with Cathay Pacific from London Heathrow or Manchester, via Hong Kong, or with Emirates from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh or Glasgow, via Dubai.
Alternative airline – Japan Airlines
Should you prefer, fly direct to Tokyo from London Heathrow with Japan Airlines for a supplement, from £250 per person return.
Included meals:
In-flight meals and drinks
Day 2
Tokyo, 3 nights
On arrival into Japan’s metropolitan capital, we transfer to the Sheraton Miyako Hotel Tokyo, our home for the next three nights. The remainder of the day is left free to relax.
Included meals:
In-flight meals and drinks
Day 3
Tokyo
We start our Japanese adventure in the district of Asakusa, home to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Sensoji, founded in AD645. The approach to the temple is through the Kaminarimon Gate, which leads to the Nakamise, a shopping street that has been providing temple visitors with a variety of traditional local snacks and tourist souvenirs for centuries. We make our way to a local restaurant where we will learn the art of Japanese sushi-making, before enjoying our own culinary creation for lunch. We finish our day with a visit to the Tokyo National Museum.
Included meals:
Breakfast and lunch
Day 4
Tokyo
After breakfast, we make our way to Tokyo Tower. Standing at 333m, it’s 13m taller than the Eiffel Tower, which was the inspiration for its design. Although surpassed in height by Tokyo Skytree in 2012, Tokyo Tower remains a beloved symbol of the city. After a brief photo stop at the impressive Imperial Palace, we make our way to Japan’s most famous Shinto Shrine, Meiji Jingu. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji, the shrine sits in a large forest area that contains more than 100,000 trees, gifted by the people to their beloved emperor. We return to our hotel, where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Day 5
Lake Yamanaka, 2 nights
This morning we head to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, famous for its hot springs and views of what is easily Japan’s most iconic image, Mount Fuji. Our first stop is Lake Ashi, a crater lake formed over 200,000 years ago. We board our boat for a short cruise on this beautiful lake before taking a cable car into the Owakudani Valley. The result of a volcanic eruption over 3,000 years ago, the area is still active with many sulphur vents and bubbling hot springs. We continue our journey through picturesque landscapes to the area known as Fuji Five Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our home for the next two nights is the Fuji Marriott Hotel Lake Yamanaka or the Hotel de Yama, Lake Ashi. After settling into our accommodation, there is free time to relax before we dine together in the hotel’s restaurant.
Included meals:
Breakfast and dinner
Day 6
Mount Fuji and Fuji Five Lakes
Tour Highlight
Mt. Fuji, or Fuji-san as it is more affectionately known, can be a little shy, but fingers crossed a clear sky will reward us with some impressive views. Our first stop is the small, but delightful, Kubota Icchiku Art Museum. Kubota revived the lost art of Tsujigahana silk dyeing and the museum exhibits several of the artist’s stunning kimono creations, which depict themes of nature, the cosmos and the seasons. (On selected departures when the museum is closed, we are unable to visit.) Our next stop is a visit to the Oishi Tsumugi for a handkerchief dyeing experience. Following a lunch of Hoto noodles, we continue to the Fuji-san World Heritage Centre which showcases traditional artwork and videos of this sacred mountain. Our final stop is the shores of Lake Kawaguchi where there is time for a stroll along this picturesque lake. This evening we dine together in our hotel.
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 7
Takayama, 2 nights
This morning, we begin our journey towards the majestic Japanese Alps. We stop at Matsumoto castle, the oldest existing castle in Japan, for a fabulous photo opportunity and continue to a miso factory, to discover how this staple Japanese food is made. Afterwards, enjoy a spectacular journey through the mountains to Takayama. Our hotel for the next two nights is the Takayama Green Hotel, the Hilton Takayama Resort or the Hida Hotel Plaza. Alternatively, you may wish to experience a stay in a traditional Japanese inn (a Ryokan) for the evening.
Included meals:
Breakfast and dinner
We Recommend - Stay in a traditional ryokan – Overnight from £175 per person
During our time in Takayama, for those who want to experience traditional hospitality, there is an opportunity to spend a night in a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. Enjoy delicious local cuisine, relax in your yukata (casual kimono) and maybe even try the onsen, a hot spring bath. Subject to availability, please call for details.
Day 8
Takayama
Tour Highlight
Takayama is best explored on foot and we begin our day with a visit to the morning market. Afterwards, we make our way to the Takayama-Jinya, which served as government headquarters under the Tokugawa shogunate of 1692 to 1871. We end our morning in the heart of Takayama’s picturesque old town, lined with traditional houses, shops, restaurants, sake breweries and cafes. Our afternoon is at leisure to enjoy this delightful area. Perhaps sample some of the many delicious delicacies, try some locally-brewed sake, or visit one of the many museums, such as the Festival Floats Exhibition Hall. Tonight, there is the opportunity to dine on Japan’s famous Hida beef, a variety of wagyu beef local to this area.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Day 9
Shirakawa-go & Kanazawa, 2 nights
Today we head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go. The villages, mostly cut off until as recently as the 1960s, are today famous for their traditional style of housing, the Gassho-Zukuri, which means ‘like praying hands’. We continue to Kanazawa and the Omicho Market, a lively food market famous for its abundance of fresh seafood, which has been in operation since 1721. Later, we visit Nomura Samurai House, a restored samurai residence. Finally, we arrive at the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, where we will stay for the next two nights.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Day 10
Kanazawa
Following breakfast, we visit the delightful Kenroku-en garden, considered by the Japanese as one of the top three gardens in the country. The name Kenroku-en means the ‘garden combining six’, referring to the six attributes all gardens should include: seclusion, antiquity, spaciousness, human ingenuity, water and scenic views. The city is also famed for gold leaf and it is used in abundance. We visit a local establishment to learn about gold leaf production, and decorate our own chopsticks in gold leaf – we even have the opportunity to purchase a gold leaf ice-cream. We head to the Higashi Chaya area of the city with its lovely neighbourhood of beautifully-preserved geisha houses and enjoy free time to explore. Many have now been converted into restaurants or teahouses, although some are still open to the public. This afternoon we visit the Kutani Pottery to witness how the skilled craftsmen create this famous style of Japanese porcelain.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Day 11
Kyoto, 3 nights
This morning, we make our way to Kanazawa Station for our train journey to Kyoto. The capital of Imperial Japan for over 1,000 years, Kyoto is Japan’s cultural capital. This afternoon, we head to Arashiyama and its famous Bamboo Grove, where there will be plenty of time to wander through the impressive towering alley of bamboo. Our hotel for the next three nights is either the Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, the RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto or the Hotel Higashiyama.
Tour Highlight
The distinctive white face, red lips and elaborately decorated hairstyle of the geisha is an enduring image portrayed throughout the globe. Yet the world in which they live remains a mystery. Tonight, we have arranged a traditional Japanese meal, a kaiseki, where we will be joined by a maiko, an apprentice geisha, who will perform traditional song and dance.
Included meals:
Breakfast and dinner
Day 12
Kyoto
Tour Highlight
We begin our day of sightseeing at the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinkaku-Ji Temple. Fondly referred to as the Golden Pavilion, this richly decorated golden temple is a truly beautiful sight to behold. Our next stop is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the rock garden of Ryoanji Temple. The garden’s fifteen stones are cleverly arranged so that there is always one rock that is hidden from view. We then head to the area surrounding Nijo Castle, where we have free time to explore and take lunch, before taking part in a traditional tea ceremony. Tonight, there is an opportunity to experience a Japanese barbecue at a local restaurant.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Day 13
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Today, we head out of the city to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its tunnels of more than 10,000 closely-spaced torii gates, each of which has been individually donated. We finish our morning with a visit to a sake brewery to learn about the brewing and production process of this famous Japanese rice wine. Returning to the city, we have time to explore Gion, Kyoto’s famous Geisha district. Tonight, there is the option to try Japanese shabu-shabu at a local restaurant.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Day 14
Bullet Train, Hiroshima, 2 nights
After a leisurely breakfast, we transfer to the station for our ride on Japan’s iconic Bullet Train. Running at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, the train smoothly whisks us across the country to our next port of call, Hiroshima. Hiroshima is perhaps best known for being the place where an atomic bomb was dropped during the Second World War. This afternoon, we talk to a local about their recollection of the attack, visit the Memorial Peace Park and its moving museum, as well as the Atomic Bomb Dome. After a thought-provoking day, we transfer to the RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima or the ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima for the next two nights, ideally located for exploring the city.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Day 15
Miyajima Island
This morning takes us to the peaceful and pretty island of Miyajima, famous for its giant torii gate, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Itsukushima Shinto Shrine. After viewing the shrine, there is plenty of time to wander around the city’s pretty streets before we return to the city in the early afternoon. Tonight we have the opportunity to taste delicious Okonomiyaki pancakes, a local speciality, at a restaurant just a short stroll from our hotel.
Included meals:
Breakfast and dinner
Day 16
Kurashiki, Overnight
Travel to the old merchant settlement of Kurashiki, whose main draw is its beautiful willow-lined canal. Many former storehouses have been converted into museums, boutiques and cafes, providing the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. This afternoon we visit Koraku-en Garden, another of Japan’s top three gardens. It is most aptly described as a “strolling garden”, due to its variety of views from the pathways which wind through the pond, stream, lawns and teahouse. We return to Kurashiki for an overnight stay at the Kurashiki Royal Art Hotel. Tonight, there is an opportunity to dine at a local restaurant.
Included meals:
Breakfast
Day 17
Himeji Castle, Osaka, 2 nights
Tour Highlight
Today we journey to our final destination, Osaka, via the city of Himeji, famous for Japan’s finest surviving feudal castle, Himeji Castle. The first fortifications of this UNESCO World Heritage Site were completed in the 1400s. Gradually enlarged over the centuries, the castle complex, as it survives today, is over 400 years old and is an imposing and majestic site. After exploring the castle and grounds, we make our way to Osaka. Our home for our final two nights is the delightful Nikko Osaka Hotel.
Included meals:
Breakfast and lunch
Day 18
Nara
Our sightseeing today takes us to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. One of the first sights we will experience is the thousands of sacred deer that roam freely through the city, and have learned to bow for treats! We visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Todaiji Temple. Founded in AD745, the vast temple took over 15 years to complete. The main hall houses a colossal bronze Buddha statue and remains the world’s largest wooden building. After a morning of sightseeing, we return to Osaka, where our afternoon has been left free. Later, we take a stroll through the neon lights and buzzing streets of Dotonburi district as we head to a local restaurant to enjoy our farewell dinner and a chance to reflect on our adventures.
Included meals:
Breakfast and dinner
Day 19
Depart Osaka
Our day is at leisure until we travel to Osaka Airport for our evening flight to the UK. All flights with Cathay Pacific travel via Hong Kong, and with Emirates will travel via Dubai. Alternatively, if choosing Japan Airlines, you will fly to the UK via Tokyo.
Included meals:
Breakfast, in-flight meals and drinks
Day 20
Arrive UK
After 20 spectacular days, we arrive into the UK, bringing our incredible Very Best of Japan tour to an end.
Included meals:
In-flight meals and drinks
Departure dates & prices
Save £400 per person on tours departing from January 2027 when you book by 30th November 2025, or take advantage of £200 per person savings on tours departing from September 2026 to December 2026 , when you book by 30th November 2025.
2025 Departures
| Date | Price (Per Person) | Offer | Availability |
| 12th, 15th, 19th, 22nd November 2025 | Fully Booked | ||
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12th, 15th, 19th, 22nd November 2025
Fully Booked
2026 Departures
| Date | Price (Per Person) | Offer | Availability |
| 26th March 2026¹~ | £7,195pp | — | Just Launched |
| 27th March 2026¹~ | £7,195pp | — | Just Launched |
| 10th May 2026* | £6,795pp | — | Just Launched |
| 15th October 2026+ |
|
SAVE £200 per person | Just Launched |
| 29th October 2026^ |
|
SAVE £200 per person | 2 Rooms |
| 22nd$, 23rd~, 24th*, 25th$, 26th$, 28th$ March 2026 | Fully Booked | ||
| 1st*, 1st~, 2nd#, 3rd~ April 2026 | Fully Booked | ||
| 9th*, 11th*, 12th$, 13th*, 15th*, 17th* May 2026 | Fully Booked | ||
| 19th^, 24th+, 26th^ September 2026 | Fully Booked | ||
| 8th+, 10th^, 17th^, 24th^ October 2026 | Fully Booked | ||
| 5th^, 7th^ November 2026 | Fully Booked | ||
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26th March 2026
Just Launched£7,195pp
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27th March 2026
Just Launched£7,195pp
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10th May 2026
Just Launched£6,795pp
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15th October 2026
Just Launched
SAVE £200 per person£6,995pp£6,795pp -
29th October 2026
2 Rooms
SAVE £200 per person£6,995pp£6,795pp -
22nd$, 23rd~, 24th*, 25th$, 26th$, 28th$ March 2026
Fully Booked -
1st*, 1st~, 2nd#, 3rd~ April 2026
Fully Booked -
9th*, 11th*, 12th$, 13th*, 15th*, 17th* May 2026
Fully Booked -
19th^, 24th+, 26th^ September 2026
Fully Booked -
8th+, 10th^, 17th^, 24th^ October 2026
Fully Booked -
5th^, 7th^ November 2026
Fully Booked
2027 Departures
| Date | Price (Per Person) | Offer | Availability |
| 23rd March 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 26th March 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 29th March 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 2nd April 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 7th May 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 10th May 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 14th May 2027 |
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SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 18th September 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 9th October 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 23rd October 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
| 6th November 2027 |
|
SAVE £400 per person | Just Launched |
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23rd March 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£7,495pp£7,095pp -
26th March 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£7,495pp£7,095pp -
29th March 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£7,495pp£7,095pp -
2nd April 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£7,495pp£7,095pp -
7th May 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£6,995pp£6,595pp -
10th May 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£6,995pp£6,595pp -
14th May 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£6,995pp£6,595pp -
18th September 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£7,295pp£6,895pp -
9th October 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£7,295pp£6,895pp -
23rd October 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£7,295pp£6,895pp -
6th November 2027
Just Launched
SAVE £400 per person£7,295pp£6,895pp
Additional Information
Please note: Departure in 2025 operate on a slightly different itinerary. Please contact us for further details.
¹ These departures use Cathay Pacific flights rather than Emirates.
* Please click here for the Spring 2026 itinerary.
$ These departures stay in Tonami rather than Takayama. It is not possible to upgrade to the Ryokan stay on these dates. Please click here for the Spring 2026 itinerary.
# This departure runs in reverse. Please click here for the itinerary.
~ These departures run in reverse and stay in Tonami rather than Takayama. It is not possible to upgrade to the Ryokan stay on these dates. Please click here for the itinerary.
^ Please click here for the Autumn 2026 itinerary.
+ These departures stay in Tonami rather than Takayama. It is not possible to upgrade to the Ryokan stay on these dates. Please click here for the Autumn 2026 itinerary.
Prices: Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin or double room.
Single occupancy supplement: £1,595
Deposit: £1,000 per person if travelling in economy class, £1,950 per person if travelling in premium economy, and £3,750 per person for business class.
Flight upgrades
Cathy Pacific upgrade to Premium Economy from £1,295 per person return, or Business Class from £3,895 per person return.
Emirates upgrade to Premium Economy* from £1,195 per person or Business Class from £4,145 per person return.
*Only available on certain flights.
Japan Airlines upgrade to Premium Economy from £1,295 per person return, or Business Class from £3,495 per person return.
Important Information: Our holiday prices are subject to fuel surcharges and the availability of flights in the lowest fare booking class. The correct price will always be confirmed to you before you book, and once you have booked, our Price Promise will guarantee there will be no further increases. For full terms and conditions see our terms and conditions page.
Your holiday includes
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Flights with leading scheduled airlines
Return economy flights with Cathay Pacific from London Heathrow or Manchester, or with Emirates from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh or Glasgow, inclusive of all airport charges, security charges, any applicable fuel surcharges and UK Air Passenger Duty. Alternatively, fly direct to Tokyo with Japan Airlines from London Heathrow – a supplement, from £250 per person, will apply
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Carefully selected hotels
Carefully selected hotels in great locations, with all hotel porterage and applicable taxes
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Meals worth £635 per person
Meals worth £635 per person, with daily breakfast, three lunches and six dinners
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Unforgettable experiences
- Sightseeing tours in Tokyo, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Miyajima Island and Nara
- Learn to make sushi
- Spend two nights near Lake Yamanaka
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle
- Visits to a miso and a sake factory
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go
- Discover the Japanese gardens of Kenroku-en and Koraku-en
- Watch a maiko performance
- Ride the Bullet Train
- Visit historical Bikan Chiku, Kurashiki
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Experienced Tour Manager
Services of an experienced Tour Manager
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On the ground
All overseas transfers, travel by rail and modern, air-conditioned coaches throughout
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ATOL protected
Your holiday is covered by our Price Promise and is fully ATOL protected
Hand-picked hotels
All the hotels on our tours are carefully selected by our travel experts to ensure they meet their high standards. They understand exactly what elements of a hotel work best on a touring holiday, with an emphasis on location and quality. Throughout your touring holiday, rest assured that you will be staying in the best possible accommodation, without it costing you the earth.
- Keio Plaza Hotel, Tokyo
- Sheraton Miyako Hotel, Tokyo
- Fuji Marriott Hotel, Lake Yamanaka
- Hotel de Yama, Lake Ashi
- Takayama Green Hotel, Takayama
- Hotel Associa Takayama Resort, Takayama
- Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, Kanazawa
- Hyatt Centric, Kanazawa
- Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, Kyoto
- RIHGA Royal Hotel, Kyoto
- RIHGA Royal Hotel, Hiroshima
- ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima, Hiroshima
- Royal Art Hotel, Kurashiki
- Hotel Nikko Osaka, Osaka
Keio Plaza Hotel, Tokyo
Set in the skyscraper district of Shinjuku, one of the liveliest wards in Tokyo, staying at the Keio Plaza Hotel Shinjuku places you in a prime position for exploring Japan’s capital and one of the world’s most exciting cities. Shinjuku… Find out more >-
Official rating
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Distant Journeys rating
Sheraton Miyako Hotel, Tokyo
Sheraton Miyako Hotel is located in Tokyo’s tranquil Shirokanedai area. The hotel blends Japanese tradition with modern comforts. Set within a lush, 6,000 sqm garden featuring ginkgo and maple trees, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat from the busy streets… Find out more >-
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Distant Journeys rating
Fuji Marriott Hotel, Lake Yamanaka
Situated just a short drive from beautiful Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the five Fuji lakes, the Fuji Marriott Hotel is set in extensive grounds and has lovely views of Mount Fuji, cloud cover permitting. The hotel is modern and… Find out more >-
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Distant Journeys rating
Hotel de Yama, Lake Ashi
Hotel de Yama sits on the shores of Lake Ashi near Hakone, offering scenic views of Mount Fuji and easy access to Hakone Shrine. Surrounded by nature, it’s a peaceful base for exploring the region. Guest rooms blend traditional Japanese design… Find out more >-
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Distant Journeys rating
Takayama Green Hotel, Takayama
The Takayama Green Hotel is set in the heart of the Japanese city of Takayama. Nicknamed ‘Little Kyoto’, Takayama is a charming and historic town, and at the Takayama Green Hotel, you’re in a prime position to explore not only… Find out more >-
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Hotel Associa Takayama Resort, Takayama
Nestled in the scenic Takayama City, Hotel Associa Takayama Resort provides a relaxing retreat with mountain views and rejuvenating hot spring baths. Overlooking the majestic Japanese Northern Alps, the resort immerses guests in the natural beauty and rich history of… Find out more >-
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Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, Kanazawa
Set at the heart of the ancient castle city of Kanazawa, the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel is ideally located for exploring the area’s top attractions. Just a short walk away is Kenrokuen Garden, named one of the three Great Gardens of… Find out more >-
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Distant Journeys rating
Hyatt Centric, Kanazawa
Conveniently located just short stroll away from Kanazawa Station, Hyatt Centric Kanazawa is a great launchpad for exploring everything this historic city has to offer. Offering the perfect mix of contemporary architecture and warm Japanese hospitality, guests can experience Japanese… Find out more >-
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Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, Kyoto
A contemporary hotel with subtle nods to traditional Japanese design, the Kyoto Tokyu Hotel is a peaceful haven, yet it enjoys a great location. Once Japan’s imperial capital, this heritage still lives on in Kyoto today, with millions flocking to… Find out more >-
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RIHGA Royal Hotel, Kyoto
The RIHGA Royal Hotel is conveniently located just a short walk from many of Kyoto’s ancient temples and shrines. Built in 1969, the Kyoto Grand Hotel, as it was then known, was opened in anticipation of the 1970 Japan World… Find out more >-
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RIHGA Royal Hotel, Hiroshima
Set in the heart of this fascinating Japanese city, the Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima is based in the perfect location for exploring Hiroshima’s attractions and remnants of its unfortunate past. The RIHGA Royal Hotel is within a short walking distance… Find out more >-
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ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima, Hiroshima
ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima is in Hiroshima's commercial district, just across the Motoyasugawa River from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The guest rooms have flat-screen TV and minibar, and hotel facilities include a fitness centre, and an Aesthetic Salon offering facials and… Find out more >-
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Royal Art Hotel, Kurashiki
The Kurashiki Royal Art Hotel is located just a short walk from many of the attractions of the historic and cultural city of Kurashiki. Kurashiki is most famous for its Bikan historical quarter, a preserved town on the canal from… Find out more >-
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Hotel Nikko Osaka, Osaka
Situated in the heart of the sprawling city of Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city, the Hotel Nikko Osaka is a 4-star high-rise hotel offering contemporary rooms, a choice of restaurants and numerous on-site facilities and services. Find out more >-
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Freedom days
Explore further during your free time with an optional excursion to enhance your experience. All optional excursions in Japan must be pre-booked before you depart the UK due to limited space. We suggest these are pre-booked as soon after booking your holiday as possible, and ideally no later than 3 months prior to departure, to avoid disappointment.
Pre-booking required
Takayama: Hida Beef Dinner
Hida-Gyu is beef from black-haired Japanese cattle bred in Gifu prefecture, where Takayama is located. Hida-Gyu is renowned as one of the finest quality meats in Japan, and a speciality of the area. The family-run restaurant is housed in a...
From GBP £42 Read More >
Pre-booking required
Takayama: A Ryokan Experience
Found throughout Japan, especially in hot spring resorts, an authentic Ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn), is more than just a place to sleep. Priding themselves on providing a tranquil atmosphere, guests are invited to take off their shoes and enjoy simple,...
From £175 per person Read More >
Pre-booking required
Kanazawa: Afternoon Crafts Tour
You will learn about two of Kanazawa’s traditional crafts on this fascinating afternoon tour. Kutani pottery is a style of Japanese porcelain made locally, using a technique which dates from 1655. You will visit a craftsman and their workshop, and...
From GBP £49 Read More >
Pre-booking required
Kyoto: Shabu Shabu Dinner
For a truly authentic Japanese dinner experience, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a Shabu Shabu dinner. This is a popular hot pot dish consisting of thinly sliced meat and bite-sized vegetables cooked in a steaming hot broth. The name...
From GBP £53 Read More >
Pre-booking required
Kyoto: Japanese BBQ Dinner
Yakiniku, a Japanese style BBQ, is one of the popular dishes in Japan; there are over 18,000 Yakiniku restaurants all over the country, so it’s almost the national dish! Simple yet delicious, this communal meal offers fine selections of meat,...
From GBP £63 Read More >
Pre-booking required
Kurashiki: Ivy Square & Dinner
Ivy Square is a complex of ivy-clad brick buildings that include museums, restaurants and an hotel. The area was the site of the first modern cotton mill in Japan, and the buildings were originally constructed as part of the mill...
From GBP £42 Read More >Offers
Early Booking Offers: SAVE £200 per person on Japan tours departing September 2026 Book by 30th November 2025.
Early Booking Offers: SAVE £400 per person on Japan tours on departures from January 2027. Book by 30th November 2025.
Customer reviews 
These reviews are from Distant Journeys guests, and have been verified by the independent reviews company Feefo.
A NOTE FROM OUR EXPERTS
The Very Best of Japan tour includes so many interesting local experiences, but with a good degree of freedom and flexibility to allow a true appreciation of the country. Japan is safe and clean, its people are kind and the food is very good!
Sachiko Takigawa
Tour Manager
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Award-winning Holidays
Distant Journeys has won 23 awards over the last seven years, at the British Travel Awards, and we have been awarded Feefo’s highest Platinum Trusted Rating for customer satisfaction.
Guaranteed Price Promise
Know you are paying the best price for your holiday with our Price Promise. We never offer last minute discounts and we guarantee the earlier you book the better the offer you’ll receive.
100% Financial Protection
Book in the confidence your money is 100% safe. All Distant Journeys holidays are fully bonded by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 10913) or ABTOT (number 5427).
ORDER YOUR BROCHURES TODAY
Planning your next holiday? Let Distant Journeys give you some travel inspiration.
There are three easy ways to request your brochures – just click on your preferred option below:
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CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Newsletter
Travel Diaries: The Treasures of Sri Lanka
A journalist for 25 years, Teresa Machan has written for national magazines and newspapers including.. Read More
A land down under – celebrating 11 years of crafting holidays to Australasia
Australasia is a special part of the world that casts a powerful pull on the imagination: the sail-l.. Read More
HELPFUL LINKS
CONTACT INFORMATION
Distant Journeys, 8 Hattersley Court, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 2AY
Email: [email protected]
Distant Journeys - Copyright 2025.
