Guide

When 6 or more people are in the group, you will be escorted by our English-speaking tour leader. If your group is less than 6 people, you will be doing the tour on a semi-escorted basis (Met in each area by our local assistants and guides).

Meals

Breakfast Daily, 5 Lunches, 8 Evening Meals

Accommodation

Total: 20 nights of accommodation in a carefully chosen hotel, Minshuku guesthouses, and ryokans. 14 Nights in Standard and Superior Western Style 6 Nights in Japanese Ryokans with hot springs and dinner

Transport

Transfers throughout: Arrival & departing airport transfers direct from the airport to your hotel Reserved Seats on Express & Bullet Trains One domestic flight Local buses/subways, or taxis (depending on group size) or; Private vehicles, when required Transport using chartered vehicles, shinkansen (bullet trains), express trains, boats, one domestic flight, and local transport.

Others

Full financial protection Entrance fees: Included into all sights listed on this itinerary Comprehensive Travel Pack Mobile Travel App with all your details/documents on your phone Local Emergency Contact in Japan All Taxes & Accommodation Surcharges Fixed Price Policy

Not included:

Flights

International flights are not included.

Others

Meals other than those specified in the itinerary. Generally, you can expect to pay around 1,000-1,500 yen for lunch and anything from 2,500yen for your evening meals. Beverages consumed at any meal (Water served freely) Baggage Handling (You are requested to carry your own bags so be careful when packing! Your tour leader will help you arrange luggage forwarding on some journeys by the reliable ‘Takkyubin Service’) Tour Leader Or Driver Gratuity – can be arranged among your group (Optional)

Insurance

Essential for all customers of Unique Japan Tours. Please arrange separately.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Arrival In Kyoto - Welcome To The Cultural Heart Of Japan
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Arrival In Kyoto - Welcome To The Cultural Heart Of Japan

Begin your Japanese odyssey in the serene embrace of Kyoto, the city where history breathes through every temple and shrine. Upon landing at Kansai International Airport, enjoy the seamless door-to-door transfer to your deluxe accommodation.

After checking in, take some time to rest or explore the nearby area at your leisure. Get your first taste of Kyoto’s charm with a stroll through its historic streets.

As dusk settles, join your group and tour leader for a welcome dinner, where you’ll meet fellow travellers and your tour leader, sharing the excitement for the adventure that lies ahead. Here, in the culinary capital, each dish tells a story, setting the tone for your cultural exploration.
Day 2 Kyoto Highlights And Geisha Experience
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kyoto Highlights And Geisha Experience

Awaken to the cultural heartbeat of Kyoto. With your tour leader and local guide, spend the day unravelling the city’s treasures. Stand in the presence of timeless UNESCO temples, whispering tales of samurai valour.

The highlight—an exclusive meeting with an authentic Geisha over tea—offers a rare glimpse into the grace of old-world Japan. For those travelling in March, the blush of cherry blossoms may accompany your explorations, while November guests revel in the dance and colour of the Gion Odori festival.
Day 3 Free Day In Kyoto - Explore More Of Kyoto Or The Kansai Region
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Free Day In Kyoto - Explore More Of Kyoto Or The Kansai Region

Today is yours to craft your narrative on Kyoto’s enchanting streets. Continue your exploration of the city’s ancient sites or venture out on a day trip to the marvels of the Kansai region.

Whether you choose to delve deeper into the city’s hidden alleys, attend a local festival, or escape to a nearby attraction, the day is yours to shape. Armed with curated itineraries and the insightful Oomi Travel App, you’re free to weave your own experiences into the rich tapestry of Kyoto. Your tour leader, a wellspring of local knowledge, will ensure your free day in Kyoto is as enriching as it is exclusive.
Day 4 Discover Kyotango’S Coastal Beauty And Heritage Crafts
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Discover Kyotango’S Coastal Beauty And Heritage Crafts

Wave goodbye to the cityscape as you embark on a scenic journey to Kyotango. Here, the quaint village of Ine welcomes you with its picturesque boat houses, a prelude to your luxurious ryokan stay. As you partake in a Kaiseki dining experience, let each course tell a story of the region’s bountiful seas and rich cultural heritage. Kyotango is more than a destination; it’s a passage back in time, where each craft and custom offers a thread linking past to present.
Day 5 Artisans Of Kyotango - Meet Master Craftsmen Of Silk, Swords, And Vinegar
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Artisans Of Kyotango - Meet Master Craftsmen Of Silk, Swords, And Vinegar

Explore Kyotango’s rich heritage with visits to kimono silk weavers, a traditional swordsmith, and a rice vinegar distillery. Learn about these time-honoured crafts and the artisans dedicated to preserving them.

Immerse yourself in the artisanal heartbeat of Kyotango, a region steeped in ancient craftsmanship. Watch as kimono silk weavers conjure patterns of timeless elegance, visit a rice vinegar distillery where tradition flavours every drop, and witness the revered art of Japanese sword making. These experiences provide a rare glimpse into the meticulous artistry that is the backbone of Japan’s cultural identity.
Day 6 Kobe - Culinary Delights In A Cosmopolitan City
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kobe - Culinary Delights In A Cosmopolitan City

Arrive in Kobe and check into your hotel, which is next to the iconic Kobe Port Tower. The city’s cosmopolitan charm is as enticing as its world-famous beef.

Your first evening is free to roam the city, perhaps wandering the bustling waterfront shopping and dining complex at Harborland Megacomplex. An attractive city, the first to open foreign trade, has now recovered from the 1995 earthquake. This harbour town features diverse and sophisticated streets. Sannomiya is a paradise for shoppers and foodies. Sample the finest sake from Nada and Kobe Wagyu beef. Visit distinct areas: Kyu-kyoryuchi, Kitano and Chinatown.

As the city lights twinkle, the fusion of international influences and local traditions in this port city becomes delightfully apparent.
Day 7 Exploring Kobe - Gardens, Gastronomy, Craftsmanship And Kobe Beef Experience
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Exploring Kobe - Gardens, Gastronomy, Craftsmanship And Kobe Beef Experience

Experience Kobe’s cultural blend with a guided tour through the Nada district’s sake breweries and a visit to the peaceful Nunobiki Herb Gardens. The day crescendos with a sizzling Kobe Beef dining experience by the harbour, where the city’s culinary excellence truly shines. A visit to a ceramics master potter adds an artistic touch to the day’s adventures.
Day 8 Hiroshima’S History And Miyajima Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Hiroshima’S History And Miyajima Island

The Shinkansen bullet train takes you swiftly to Hiroshima, a city that has risen with grace from its tragic history. Start with introspective moments at the A-bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum, accompanied by a local guide to introduce you to the city’s tragic past. These sites bear silent testimony to the resilience of humanity.

After lunch, a short ferry ride transports you to the sacred Miyajima Island. Here, the iconic ‘floating’ torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine offers a picture of serenity against the calm waters—a poignant counterpoint to the morning’s reflections.
Day 9 Fukuoka’S Charm - From Wisteria Gardens To Bustling Markets And Street Food Stalls
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Fukuoka’S Charm - From Wisteria Gardens To Bustling Markets And Street Food Stalls

As you travel to Fukuoka, pause at the nostalgic Moji Port in KitaKyushu, with its retro waterfront charm. In April, the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden unfolds in a symphony of colour. Visit the Tanga Market and enjoy the waterfront area. In April, the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden is a highlight. Once in Fukuoka, explore the city’s attractions, such as Canal City Hakata.
Day 10 Nagasaki’S Historic Nightscapes
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Nagasaki’S Historic Nightscapes

Arrive in the storied city of Nagasaki and engage in self-guided exploration, delving into its rich history and international influences. Reconvene with your group in the evening to take in the magnificent night views from Mount Inasayama, offering a sweeping panorama of the city.
Day 11 Nagasaki’S Storied Past: Nagasaki Peace Park. Dejima Island Of Dutch Traders
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Nagasaki’S Storied Past: Nagasaki Peace Park. Dejima Island Of Dutch Traders

Embark on a day filled with historic exploration. Visit Nagasaki Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum, commemorating the city’s poignant history. Wander through Glover Garden, and step onto Dejima, the once-exclusive Dutch trading post. This historic island is a testament to Nagasaki’s role as a gateway for Western influences during Japan’s period of seclusion.
Day 12 Unzen Onsen’S Volcanic Bliss
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Unzen Onsen’S Volcanic Bliss

Travel to Unzen Onsen, a hot spring resort within the Unzen-Amakusa National Park. Japan’s First national park of bright nature with a dark history. Eight mountains combine in Mount Unzen, and discover wild birds and highland plants, as Azaleas and Maple leaves blaze. Monuments mark the tragic opposition to new beliefs at Unzen Hell geothermal fields. Enjoy the therapeutic properties of acidic springs at an early Meiji-era resort.

Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of volcanic hot springs and indulge in a kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, celebrating Japan’s culinary arts.
Day 13 Kumamoto’S Samurai Legacy And Literary Reflections
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kumamoto’S Samurai Legacy And Literary Reflections

Kumamoto City embodies the rich culture, natural beauty, and stimulating flavours of Kyushu. Stroll through the awe-inspiring complex at Kumamoto Castle. Suizenji Garden is designed to replicate the Tokaido with a mini Mt Fuji, and the residence of the first Western author to write books about daily life in Japan and scary ghost stories, Lafcadio Hearn. Close by see a gigantic volcanic caldera at Mt. Aso.

An awe-inspiring complex at Kumamoto Castle, the castle town, and Mt. Aso. Suizenji Garden is designed to replicate Tokaido with a mini-Mt. Fuji.

The residence of the first Western author to write books about daily life in Japan and scary ghost stories, Lafcadio Hearn. Close by see a gigantic volcanic caldera at Mt. Aso.
Day 14 Kumamoto’S Natural Wonders - Volcanic Landscapes And Takachiho Gorge
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Kumamoto’S Natural Wonders - Volcanic Landscapes And Takachiho Gorge

A day trip to the active volcano, Mt. Aso offers breathtaking vistas and natural wonders. The stunning Takachiho Gorge awaits with its rowboats, ready to navigate between towering cliffs and past cascading waterfalls. A spiritual interlude at the Amano Iwato Shinto shrine, nestled in a sacred cave, rounds out a day rich in natural and mystical encounters.
Day 15 Journey To Yakushima - Transition To Tropical Island Serenity
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Journey To Yakushima - Transition To Tropical Island Serenity

Begin your travels to Yakushima, stopping at Ibusuki Onsen for a unique sand bath experience.Take a high-speed boat to the island of ancient cedar and white beaches Yakushima is a truly magical subtropical island filled with the most ancient cedar forest at 7,000 years old. Inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke.

Arrive at your ryokan on Yakushima, ready to explore the island’s renowned natural beauty and ancient forests.
Day 16 Exploring Yakushima
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Exploring Yakushima

Yakushima was certified as a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site due to its unique nature. While the Nansei group of islands consists of more than 900 islands, Yakushima Island is the only one that possesses a pristine natural forest of cedars more than one thousand years old, and an uninterrupted vertical distribution of vegetation that extends from the coast to the mountain peaks.

On a morning hike with a guide, marvel at the enormous native cedar trees that form Yakushima’s lush landscapes. Visit the ancient Jomonsugi cedar tree and other natural highlights, immersing yourself in the island’s serene environment. Traverse through mossy forests and alongside streams that murmur tales of the island’s timeless past. Let the majesty of nature’s creation, from the whispering trees to the gentle wildlife, fill you with a sense of wonder. When you are satisfied with your exploration inland, enjoy the rest of the day close to your beachfront hotel.
Day 17 Yakushima Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Yakushima Island

This day is all about you enjoying personal time in a natural paradise. Embrace the freedom to explore Yakushima’s enchanting landscapes at your own pace. Whether you choose to embark on a challenging hike, cycle through scenic trails, or relax by the shore, the island offers a respite for your spirit. For those visiting between May and August, the opportunity to witness sea turtles on pristine beaches adds a magical dimension to the island’s natural allure.
Day 18 Departure From Yakushima - From Lush Green Forests To A Neon Concrete Jungle
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Departure From Yakushima - From Lush Green Forests To A Neon Concrete Jungle

After saying goodbye to this peaceful paradise, hop on a domestic flight and transition from the tranquil setting of Yakushima to the bustling atmosphere of Tokyo. Reflect on your time spent in nature before the urban adventure begins. After checking in at your hotel, step outside and feel the energy of the world’s largest city. Your mind will boggle at the stark contrast to the natural calm you’ve left behind earlier than the same day.

Tokyo’s dynamism is exciting, and while its scale can be overwhelming, it is rarely intimidating due be being the safest city in the world.
Day 19 Tokyo’S Highlights - A Guided Tour Of The Capital’S Best
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tokyo’S Highlights - A Guided Tour Of The Capital’S Best

Dive into Tokyo’s vibrant pulse with a guided tour that showcases the capital’s diversity. Visit iconic landmarks, including Meiji Shrine, steeped in tranquility amidst the city’s bustle. Stroll through serene gardens that offer a green oasis, and step into the past at the Asakusa district, home to the famed Senso-ji Temple. End the day with a panoramic view of Tokyo’s sprawling cityscape from an observation deck, a testament to its modernity and charm.
Day 20 Personalized Tokyo Adventure - Shopping, Sightseeing, And Farewell Dinner
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Personalized Tokyo Adventure - Shopping, Sightseeing, And Farewell Dinner

Your last full day in Tokyo is an open canvas—shop for the latest electronics or fashion, discover under-the-radar local spots, or revisit your favourite places in the city. Your tour leader is available to recommend activities that align with your interests. In the evening, regroup for a farewell dinner to celebrate the journey’s end, sharing memories and toasting new friendships and unforgettable experiences.
Day 21 Departure Day Or Extended Stay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Departure Day Or Extended Stay

As the tour officially concludes, you may either head to the airport for your flight home or choose to extend your stay to further discover Tokyo’s endless attractions. If departing, you’ll leave with a collection of memories from the serene temples of Kyoto to the dynamic streets of Tokyo, each moment of your journey offering a deeper understanding of Japan’s rich culture and landscapes.

+18

21 days tour

Wonders Of The West

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Wonders Of The West

Arrival In Kyoto - Welcome To The Cultural Heart Of Japan

Kyoto Highlights And Geisha Experience

Free Day In Kyoto - Explore More Of Kyoto Or The Kansai Region

Discover Kyotango’S Coastal Beauty And Heritage Crafts

Artisans Of Kyotango - Meet Master Craftsmen Of Silk, Swords, And Vinegar

Kobe - Culinary Delights In A Cosmopolitan City

Exploring Kobe - Gardens, Gastronomy, Craftsmanship And Kobe Beef Experience

Hiroshima’S History And Miyajima Island

Fukuoka’S Charm - From Wisteria Gardens To Bustling Markets And Street Food Stalls

Nagasaki’S Historic Nightscapes

Nagasaki’S Storied Past: Nagasaki Peace Park. Dejima Island Of Dutch Traders

Unzen Onsen’S Volcanic Bliss

Kumamoto’S Samurai Legacy And Literary Reflections

Kumamoto’S Natural Wonders - Volcanic Landscapes And Takachiho Gorge

Journey To Yakushima - Transition To Tropical Island Serenity

Exploring Yakushima

Yakushima Island

Departure From Yakushima - From Lush Green Forests To A Neon Concrete Jungle

Tokyo’S Highlights - A Guided Tour Of The Capital’S Best

Personalized Tokyo Adventure - Shopping, Sightseeing, And Farewell Dinner

Departure Day Or Extended Stay

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