Discover the ancient imperial city of Kyoto before embarking on an adventure which takes in the famous Onsen town of Kinosaki and the remote region of San’in, where you’ll uncover gems of authentic history and culture. In this less-well-travelled region, discover the dramatic landscapes of the Tottori sand dunes and Mt Daisen. You'll visit ancient castles and shrines at Matsue and Izumo Taisha and the stunning beauty of Miyajima Island, before finishing your tour in Tokyo. Discover the city that never sleeps with your private guide always on hand to show you the best attractions, shopping, food quarters and markets.

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival and Transfer to Kyoto

On your arrival at Tokyo Haneda Airport, you will be met by an English-speaking private driver who will transfer you to Tokyo station. You will take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to the ancient imperial city of Kyoto, a journey of only 2h 10mins. On arrival, you will be met by an English-speaking assistant at Kyoto station and transferred to your hand-picked Japanese 5-star hotel.

Overnight stay at Hotel The Mitsui, Kyoto.

*Photo copyright: © Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto*

Day 2: Explore Kyoto

After breakfast, your day starts with a private transfer accompanied by your English-speaking sightseeing guide who will accompany you around the highlights of Kyoto. Visits will include Kinkakuji Temple with its upper sections completely covered in gold leaf and Roanji Rock Garden, the most famous zen garden in Japan. You’ll enjoy a Buddhist vegetarian meal (Shojin Ryori) for lunch. After lunch you can stroll through Arashiyama with its collection of famous monuments and towering Bamboo Grove, followed by a private transfer to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of red vermilion torii gates.

Overnight stay at Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto.

*Photo copyright: Inside Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove*

Day 3: Kyoto Cultural Experiences

After breakfast, your day starts with a private transfer accompanied by your English-speaking sightseeing guide who will continue to accompany you for a full day of exploration. The day includes visits and sightseeing at Nijo-jo Castle.

Next you will experience the ways of the warrior at an exclusive Samurai experience hosted at a traditional Samurai house, learning about the Samurai spirit and witnessing a Japanese sword performance.

After a later lunch you’ll enjoy strolling around the atmospheric Gion district, including visits to traditional teahouses and a maiko experience.

Overnight stay at Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto.

Day 4: Himeji Castle and Kinosaki Onsen

After breakfast, you will take a bullet train to Himeji station (45 min journey) from where your private guide will introduce you to the important UNESCO World Heritage Site at Himeji Castle, the best preserved Japanese feudal castle. The castle site has over 80 buildings, comprising successive building phases since its initial construction in the 14th century.

After lunch you will take a private transfer to Kinosaki Onen, one of the most celebrated Onsen in Japan. The pretty spa town is situated along the willow-lined river with plenty of different Onsen experiences to choose from.

Overnight stay at Nishimurahya Honkan, a luxurious ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen.

*Photo copyright: © Japan Travel Himeji Castle*

Day 5: Kinosaki Onsen Relaxation

Full day at leisure to relax and enjoy the experience of Kinosaki Onsen. Recommended visits include 7 diverse onsens, relaxation spa, Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway for scenic views, and traditional straw craft activities with local artisans.

Overnight stay at Nishimuraya Honkan.

Day 6: Tottori Sand Dunes and Daisen

After breakfast you will be collected by private transfer (1h 15mins drive) and visit the famous Tottori Sand Dunes, the largest sand dune area in Japan. Your guide will introduce you to this unique landscape, before carrying on to the foot of Mt. Daisen (1h 25mins drive), well known for its natural beauty and spectacular hiking trails which resemble a ‘mini-Mt. Fuji’ experience.

Overnight stay at Hotel Guhin Daisen in Tottori.

*Photo copyright: ©JNTO Tottori: Sacred mountain climbing and golden sand dunes*

Day 7: Daisen Exploration

After breakfast you will enjoy a full day hiking and exploring with your private guide. Explore the trails around Daisen, including beautiful panoramic views of the mountains and Japan Sea. The region is well known for rare alpine plants which your guide will share with you along your journey.
Overnight stay at Hotel Guhin Daisen.

Day 8: Drive to Matsue

After breakfast, you will take a private transfer to the castle town of Matsue, Shimane prefecture (1hr 30 mins drive). Your private guide will show you Matsue Castle, one of the few remaining feudal castles to retain its original wooden keep structure. Next you will visit Yushien Garden, famous for its 250 types of peony flowers as well as beautiful traditional landscapes. At the end of the day you will be able to catch a magnificent sunset over Lake Shinji.
Overnight stay at Minamikan Ryokan, Matsue.

Day 9: Izumo Taisha and Hiroshima Transfer

After breakfast you will take a private transfer to Izumo Taisha, one of the most ancient and important Shinto Shrines in Japan (50 min journey), where your private guide will bring the local stories to life. You’ll discover the ancient iron manufacturing industry that once flourished locally, where artisans are still producing the swords and knives of the highest quality using traditional methods, including visits to the Tanabe Old Storehouses and Sakuraike House. You’ll then take a private transfer to Hiroshima (2 hrs 10 mins drive away)

Overnight stay at Hotel Hilton, Hiroshima.

*Photo copyright: © Japan-Experience* Izumo Taisha **出雲大社**

Day 10: Miyajima Island Trip

After breakfast your guide will accompany you to the port and you’ll take the short ferry ride over to Miyajima Island, famous for it’s ‘floating’ Torii gate, beautiful landscapes, historic shrines and a wealth of history and culture. You’ll return after discovering this unique island for a relaxing evening at your hotel.

Overnight stay at Hotel Hilton, Hiroshima.

Day 11: Return to Tokyo

After breakfast you will be transferred to the train station where you will board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Tokyo (journey time 3hrs 50mins) with seats and luggage space pre-booked for you. Upon arrival at Tokyo station you will be met by an Englishb speaking assistant who will transfer you to your hotel. You can enjoy the afternoon at leisure, exploring the vicinity of your hotel.

Overnight stay at Mesm Hotel Tokyo, a luxurious hotel offering magnificent views.

Day 12: Tokyo Sightseeing

After breakfast you will be met by your private guide for a full day of sightseeing in this vibrant city. We recommend you see the Tokyo Sky Tree, Asakusa district where you can enjoy a unique digital art experience at Teamlab, followed by joining in a Wadaiko (Japanese drum) experience.
Overnight stay at Mesm Hotel, Tokyo.