Land of the Rising Sun

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Tokyo

Beneath the neon lights, high-tech gadgetry and crowded suburbs is a city steeped in ancient traditions and cultures. Visit Ueno Park where delicate trees provide a beautiful backdrop to various museums or head into the upmarket district of Ginza for some retail opulence.

Day 3 Nikko

Arguably Japan's most famous area of shrines, Nikko houses several sacred sites including the resting places of the Tokugawa shoguns. If ornate architecture and multicoloured carvings are not your thing, the cedar tree-populated Mt Nakimushi offers a pleasant hiking alternative.

Days 4-5 Hakone

Relax on a boat cruise across Lake Ashinoko before enjoying picturesque views of the region on a cable car ride over the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the chance to soak in an outdoor onsen, while the adventurous might want to try a sulphur-boiled egg.

Days 6-7 Takayama

With its sake breweries, traditional inns and art galleries, Takayama is a delightful little town nestled in the Japanese Alps. Check out the Hida Folk Village for a glimpse of traditional life among artisans and thatched-roof houses.

Days 8-10 Hiroshima

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

Days 11-14 Kyoto

Gain insight into feudal Japan at Himeji-Jo Castle en route to Kyoto, where a visit to the magnificent gold-plated Kinkaku-ji Temple should not be missed. Tour the geisha district of Gion before saying sayonara to the Land of the Rising Sun.