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A Comprehensive Tour of Japan

17 days from £10,200 for 2025 per person

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern marvels. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Mount Koya, this comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled exploration of the country's diverse cultural, historical and natural wonders. Explore iconic cities like Kyoto, Kanazawa and Tokyo, each with its unique charm and vibrant atmosphere, and venture to serene islands like Naoshima and Miyajima to experience art, nature and spirituality in harmony. Whether you're admiring the golden beauty of Kinkaku-ji, exploring ancient samurai districts or indulging in world-class cuisine, this itinerary promises a deep and enriching experience of Japan’s heart and soul.

Tokyo is a captivating fusion of past and future, where ancient traditions coexist with cutting-edge innovation. Here you will discover iconic landmarks and be swept up in the bustling districts filled with art, fashion and technology. By contrast, the old-world charm of Kurashiki offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and traditional beauty. Highlights include the well-preserved Bikan Historical Quarter and the Ohara Museum of Art, the town is dotted with picturesque canals, white-walled merchant houses, elegant warehouses and tranquil gardens, a fine balance of art, culture and nature.

Naoshima and Miyajima are two of Japan’s most captivating islands, each offering a unique experience. The art island of Naoshima, is renowned for its contemporary art museums, outdoor sculptures and striking installations, including the iconic Yayoi Kusama’s Yellow Pumpkin. In contrast, Miyajima is famous for the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, lush forests and tranquil hiking trails on Mount Misen.

Your journey takes you onto Kyoto and Kanazawa, two of Japan’s most enchanting cities, each steeped in history and traditional beauty. Kyoto, once the imperial capital, is a treasure trove of temples, shrines and serene gardens, including iconic sites like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Taisha. Its rich cultural heritage is complemented by the historic districts of Gion and Higashiyama. Kanazawa, with its well-preserved Edo-era districts, is home to the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa Castle and the atmospheric Higashi Chaya District. Both cities offer a deep dive into Japan’s past, with a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture and history.

Your journey comes full circle with a return to the bustling energy of Tokyo, where the contrasts of old and new come together in a vibrant, unforgettable way. Returning to this city after a comprehensive tour will give you a completely difference experience to your visit at the start of the tour. Cultural immersion, modern excitement, a glimpse into the future, Tokyo is a city that continuously evolves, inviting you to discover its many layers. This is the perfect finale to your Japanese journey, leaving you with lasting memories of a city that seamlessly blends tradition, innovation and excitement.

Itinerary details

17 days from £10,200 for 2025 per person

Day 1 - The Okura Tokyo - Tokyo
Afternoon arrival, private transfer then at leisure. Evening visit Shibuya Crossing with dinner and enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife.
Day 2 - The Okura Tokyo - Tokyo
Guided sightseeing Meiji Shrine and Omotesando. Afternoon tour of Roppongi Hills for art, shopping and from the Mori Tower.
Day 3 - Ryokan Kurashiki - Kurashiki
Take the bullet train to Kurashiki. Afternoon guided tour of Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.
Day 4 - Ryokan Kurashiki - Kurashiki
Morning boat ride along the canal and visit the Ohara Museum of Art. Afternoon visit Shinkeien Garden and the Kibitsu Shrine.
Day 5 - Benesse House - Naoshima
Morning train and ferry to Naoshima. Visit Benesse House Museum and Chichu Art Museum.
Day 6 - Benesse House - Naoshima
Morning Lee Ufan Museum and the Ando Museum. Afternoon visit Honmura Village.
Day 7 - Iwaso - Hiroshima and Miyajima
Train and ferry to Miyajima. Afternoon guided tour of Itsukushima Shrine and Momijidani Park. Option to take Miyajima Ropeway to Mount Misen.
Day 8 - Eko-in Temple - Mount Koya
Morning train and ferry to Koyasan. Afternoon at leisure to explore the temple grounds.
Day 9 - Eko-in Temple - Mount Koya
Morning Zazen meditation or Buddhist prayer session. Afternoon visit Okunoin Cemetery and Danjo Garan. Evening shojin ryori dinner and nightly prayer session.
Day 10 - Six Senses Kyoto - Kyoto
Morning train to Kyoto. Afternoon stroll through the Higashiyama District.
Day 11 - Six Senses Kyoto - Kyoto
Morning private tour of Kiyomizu-dera. Afternoon visit Fushimi Inari Taisha and in the evening visit Gion District.
Day 12 - Six Senses Kyoto - Kyoto
Full day guided tour of Golden Pavilion, Ryoan-ji, Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji Temple and Togetsukyo Bridge. Dinner in the Pontocho District.
Day 13 - Hyatt Centric - Kanazawa
Morning train to Kanazawa. Visit Omicho Market for lunch followed by the Higashi Chaya District.
Day 14 - Hyatt Centric - Kanazawa
Guided sightseeing of Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park, Ninja Temple and 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
Day 15 - Mandarin Oriental Tokyo - Tokyo
Morning bullet train to Tokyo. Guided sightseeing Asakusa and Ginza. Dinner in the Marunouchi area.
Day 16 - Mandarin Oriental Tokyo - Tokyo
Morning visit teamLab Borderless or Planets. Afternoon visit Tokyo Skytree and lunch at Tokyo Solamachi Mall. Evening river cruise along the Sumida River.
Day 17 - In transit.
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home.

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My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus

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Client Testimonials

We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India

Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka

We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma

Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India

I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand

Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines

Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India

I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India

Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India

Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland

So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka

We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India

I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India

Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India

Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India

A Comprehensive Tour of Japan

17 days from £10,200 for 2025 per person

Itinerary details

17 days from £10,200 for 2025 per person

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Client Testimonials

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