The Best of Japan

13 days - Escorted Tours

Japan is a cultural paradox - known for its long, rich history of emperors, samurais and martial arts, it's also a place of tranquillity, elegant geishas, colourful kimonos, exquisite garden design and Zen Buddhism. On a time-travelling voyage through past and present Japan, you can ride the futuristic Bullet Train past iconic Mt. Fuji - one of the most recognisable epitomes of Mother Nature - and feel the rift of time between the natural and technological wonders. Take a trip to Tokyo– the archetypal mega-city –where you can wander the most fascinating districts, including the shopping and entertainment mecca of Ginza. Visit the ancient capital city Kyoto - a preserved metropolis of historical Japan for over a thousand years - with exquisite shrines, temples, Zen gardens and traditional handicrafts. Taste one of the world’s greatest cuisines where it truly originated-Japanese food has a more advanced palette than just sushi - with teppanyaki and a huge variety of sake rice wine your taste buds are in for a culinary culture shock. Japan shows off its seasons with an array of colours- witness the blush-coloured landscape of spring-time as the cherry blossoms bloom or the maroon hue of the maple trees in Autumn, whatever the season Japan is vibrant all year round. Where neon lights of space-age cities live side by side with thousand-year old ceremonies, Japan really is timeless. Want to spend even more time in Japan? Check out our 16 day Grand Tour of Japan

Highlights

See the famous sights of Tokyo including the Meiji shrine, Omotesando Street, and the Akihabara electronic town.
Enjoy astonishing views of Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi and the hot-spring, mountain spa resort of Hakone.
Travel at 189 mph on the incomparable high-speed bullet trains and explore Kyoto on a guided tour, experiencing the former imperial capital and the essence of traditional Japan.
Reflect on the horrors of war at Hiroshima’s Peace Park and museum.
Discover the ‘Way of Tea’ with a Japanese tea ceremony and wander around Japan’s first capital Nara, with its huge bronze Buddha, on a guided tour.

Inclusions

The price for this holiday is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room with single rooms available at the relevant supplement. Price includes:
Eleven nights’ accommodation
Daily breakfast and three meals
Direct return flights
Hotel porterage of one item of luggage per person
All touring as mentioned
All local accommodation taxes
All airport/flight taxes
The services of a Riviera Travel tour manager

1

Departure

2

Arrival in Tokyo - On our arrival, we transfer to our hotel, the excellent four-star superior New Otani, for three nights with breakfast. Perfectly located in the heart of Tokyo, close to the Japanese parliament, the nearest metro stop is just a couple of minutes’ walk allowing you explore at ease (all station names are given in English).

3

Tokyo - This morning we commence the exploration of Japan’s capital and largest city. At first glance, Tokyo might seem similar to other great Asian cities like Singapore or Shanghai, with its gleaming glass skyscrapers and busy, fashionable shops. But you’ll soon begin to notice some of the many fascinating differences – like the spotlessly clean and surprisingly quiet streets. There’s no beeping of horns here, that would be far too impolite! Our first stop is the famous Shinto Meiji shrine, dedicated to one of its past emperors. Set in outstandingly lush parkland, this is a working religious site where you may be lucky enough to see a typical Japanese marriage underway. Then we move on to some of Tokyo’s most renowned quarters, including Omotesando Street, Tokyo’s ‘Rodeo Drive’, full of luxury brand shops. We savour some Japanese cuisine at our included lunch.

4

Tokyo - This morning we visit Tokyo’s Asakusa district. Full of traditional small houses and shops, it’s a unique insight into the Tokyo of a hundred years ago. We will then transfer by boat down the Sumida River to Ginza, widely recognised as one of the world’s most luxurious shopping destinations. It’s brimming with ultra-modern department stores, boutiques, restaurants and coffee houses. Your afternoon is free to shop, explore, or perhaps indulge in some fascinating people-watching. Another option is to head to the Tokyo National Museum, just a few stops on the metro. Here you’ll find the world’s largest collection of Japanese art, with pottery, painting and prints, textiles, fashion and oriental antiquities. Signature experience (2026 only) - This evening, we'll delve deeper into modern Japanese culture on a night tour of Shinjuku. As the sun sets, the neon-lit streets of Tokyo's entertainment district are a beacon calling to those who want to experience the city's vibrant nightlife. It's an enticing kaleidoscope of lights and sound as signs and adverts vie for attention in the crowded streets. (Look out for the hyper-realistic 3D displays, including the internet-famous giant cat). In the presence of a local guide, we'll discover Kabukicho and its evolution from its roots as a red-light district to the multifaceted entertainment district it is today, which is still home to many 'love hotels'. We'll also wander through the narrow streets of Shuinjuku's Golden Gai, which houses over 200 tiny bars, clubs and restaurants, some so small that they only seat six people - this area is known as the meeting place for celebrities, directors and academics.

5

Mount Fuji & Hakone - Saying goodbye to Tokyo we drive towards Mount Fuji, probably Japan’s most instantly recognisable sight. Fringed by thick forests and a crescent-shaped ring of shimmering lakes, we are presented with one of the world’s greatest and most spectacular views. We visit two of these beautiful lakes to give you the best chance of appreciating and enjoying the stunning panorama from two different angles – and some of life’s most amazing photo opportunities. Our first stop is at Lake Kawaguchi, well known to the Japanese but as yet undiscovered by most foreign visitors. We'll then visit the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, an exceptional museum dedicated to the Kimono artist Itchiku Kubota. Inspired by a fragment of Tsujigahana textile exhibited in the Tokyo National Museum, that he devoted his life to reviving the lost art of Tsujigahana silk dyeing. The vibrant colours and patterns are synonymous with Japanese culture, with creations depicting, nature, the seasons and the cosmos. You may even decide to treat yourself to a keepsake to take home. Next, we head south to explore the fascinating mountain resort of Hakone. Descending to the smooth dark blue waters of Lake Ashi, we take a cruise on a rather unusual Japanese version of an early 19th-century pirate ship. From here, especially on a clear day, the views of Mt Fuji are one of the world’s greatest panoramas. Arriving at the four-star Hakone Hotel, we stay for one night with breakfast and dinner. The entire area here is geo-thermally active and provides the perfect opportunity to try one of Japan’s unmissable experiences – bathing in an ‘onsen’, a hot spring at our very own hotel.

6

Bullet Train and Hiroshima - This morning we travel to Hiroshima on Japan’s iconic gleaming white bullet train. With reclining seats, plenty of legroom, air-conditioned comfort and speeds up to 189 mph, this is an incomparable way to travel. There’s a sobering reminder of the horrors of war this morning as we visit Hiroshima’s Peace Park and museum, displaying the remains of the only building to survive the atomic bomb blast of August 1945. The city has been completely rebuilt and there are no signs left of the devastation of that fateful day. Yet you may notice a small digital counter indicating the number of days since the last atomic test – it’s surprisingly recent.

7

Miyajima - Today we make our way to one of the country’s most distinctive views on the nearby small island of Miyajima. A huge red ‘Torii’ gate sits just offshore; widely celebrated, at high tide it appears to float between the sea and sky. This popular little island is easy to explore by foot. It has a relaxed holiday atmosphere, lots of interesting shops and a covered market. Signature experience (2026 only) - After we visit Miyajima, we'll journey to the scenic Shukkeien Japanese Garden. This timeless garden dates back to 1620. Although it was heavily damaged during the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945, it's been completely renovated. Today, it stands as a symbol of the endurance of Hiroshima. The garden is made up of a series of miniaturised sceneries that resemble landscapes around Japan, including small bridges and lakes, as well as the flora of the local countryside. It's a lovely, peaceful place to wander around.

8

Kyoto - Leaving Hiroshima by coach, we head towards the old imperial capital of Kyoto. En route we’ll visit the superb Korakuen garden at Okayama – built in 1700 and renowned as one of Japan’s most exquisite gardens, with lawns, lakes, wooden bridges and shrines and teahouses! Allowing plenty of time to explore, our stay for the next four nights in Kyoto is at the Century Hotel with breakfast.

9

Kyoto and tea ceremony - This morning is one of the real highlights of the tour as we explore some of the overwhelming treasures of Japan’s most revered city. First is the spectacular and beautiful Golden Pavilion, dating from the classical Muromachi age of Japanese temple design, perfectly overlooking its lake and garden. The whole of the upper floors, covered in gold leaf, glow in the morning light with an almost blinding intensity. As a complete change, we then move on to the amazing Arashiyama bamboo forest – experiencing an almost other-worldly feel as the light streams through the tall green columns of bamboo, up to 30 feet high! Yet another iconic Kyoto monument is next – Nijo Castle. Set at the heart of the city and built in the 17th century, it’s famous for its wooden floors remarkably designed to creak like a nightingale’s song, thus warning its occupants of any impending stealthy attack! Finally, we take a walking tour through Kyoto’s Gion district. Here is the classic image of Japan; streets of wooden houses, the unmistakable sound of wooden sandals reverberating on the avements, bright, silk-clad geishas, cherry trees and a host of traditional restaurants. We also experience a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony’

10

Nara - Capital city before Kyoto, Nara is just a few miles south. Firstly, we see one of the country’s most iconic shrines, made from thousands of red Torii gates forming two extraordinary vermilion-coloured wooden tunnels up a hillside. Arriving at Nara you’ll be greeted by the dozens of tame deer considered for centuries to be messengers of the gods. The main sight though is the amazing Todai-ji temple, astonishingly the world’s largest wooden structure. Housing a huge bronze Buddha, this is a truly inspiring sight and just one of Nara’s several UNESCO World Heritage sites. We also get an insight into the traditional Japanese Sake drink, visiting a museum with tasting.

11

Free day in Kyoto - You’re free today to explore and discover the many delights and attractions of Kyoto. There are still more enchanting temples to see - like the 15th century Silver Pavilion and the even older Eikando temple, marvels of architectural and garden design within an easy walk of each other along the charming Philosopher’s Path. Tonight, you also have the option of staying in a ryokan, a typical Japanese inn. You’ll sleep on a rolled-out futon with tatami matting on the floor. You’ll also enjoy a traditional ‘kaiseki’ multi-course dinner. Beautifully prepared and served, it’s just as stunning to look at as it is to eat. Personalise your holiday - Spend a night in Ryokan, a traditional Japanese Inn in Kyoto Price: from £99pp (2025 & 2026) For a traditional Japanese experience, stay in a ryokan, where you'll sleep on Japanese-style futon and enjoy a beautifully prepared kaiseki dinner. Find out more about the Ryokan at the Gion Yoshiima website. Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking.

12

Bullet Train - After a last free morning at leisure, we take our bullet train to Tokyo staying overnight at the four-star Excel Tokyu near the airport.

13

Return home

New Otani Hotel

The four-star superior centrally-located New Otani Hotel is one of Tokyo’s most established hotels, having been opened in time for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. There is a huge choice of dining and venues for all tastes and pockets including seven Western cuisine restaurants, sixteen Japanese restaurants, several informal cafes and six bars, including the famous Trader Vic’s Boathouse Bar. There’s a large open-air pool (open in summer). While the hotel includes other facilities - such as a shopping mall, spa and even an art museum - the real draw is the garden. Named one of Tokyo's best spots by TripAdvisor, over its 400-year history, it's been the property of several samurai lords. Today, you'll find a myriad of flowers and rich foliage punctuated by ancient stone lanterns scarlet bridges and koi ponds. It's a peaceful retreat in a busy city. The hotel comprises of two towers, our rooms will be in the Garden Tower and are air-conditioned with a bath/shower, hairdryer, minibar (local charges apply), safe, satellite TV and tea/coffee maker.

Rihga Royal Hotel

After a day’s sightseeing experience the hotel’s RIHGA TOP lounge located on the 33rd floor, with skyline views of the city and then choose from either the sumptuous international buffet in the Dining Luore restaurant or take a choice at three options of Japanese dining of Teppan-yaki or Sushi and seasonal Japanese dining. Alternative Ryu restaurant serves Chinese cuisine. Other facilities include a fitness centre (extra charge), an indoor pool (extra charge) with jacuzzi and mist sauna (both at extra charge). The 491 comfortable air-conditioned rooms feature bath or shower, hairdryer, safe, trouser press, satellite tv, tea/coffee maker. Complimentary WI-FI.

Excel Tokyu - Haneda Airport

The hotel has a buffet restaurant and a bar, as well as Japanese and Chinese restaurants on the property. A free shuttle connects the hotel with Haneda town centre. The 706 air-conditioned rooms have bath/shower, hairdryer, minibar (local charges apply), safe, TV, tea-maker and free wifi.

Kyoto Century Hotel

The hotel has a popular buffet restaurant with Japanese and international cuisine. All of the modern air-conditioned rooms have, hairdryer, fridge, safe, TV, tea/coffeemaker and Wi-Fi. Please note that hotel rooms in Kyoto are typically more compact than Western standards, reflecting the local style and space efficiency, while still offering comfort and convenience.

Hakone Hotel

There are two restaurants offering French and Teppanyaki cuisine, as well as a lobby bar. The ‘onsen’ hot spring bath area has separate times for male/female bathing. The hotel’s 50 spacious air-conditioned rooms have bath/shower, hairdryer, minibar, safe, TV and free wifi in the lobby area.

The Hotel Higashiyama

Blending modern and traditional Japanese décor inspired by the calming flow of the Shirakawa River that runs nearby, creating a tranquil space that combines the essence of both Japanese and Western style.. Guests are welcomed by a traditional tea box in the rooms. Facilities include free wifi, kettle and fridge. The hotel has an onsite restaurant, spa and tea bar.

Rihga Royal Kyoto

This 4-star hotel features elegant decor, blending contemporary comforts with classic Japanese style. During your stay, you can enjoy a delicious meal at the hotel's restaurants, which offer an array of cultural culinary delights, including traditional Japanese and Chinese cuisine as well as international dishes. For relaxation, you might take a dip in the indoor pool or unwind at the spa during your free time. The tranquil atmosphere of the Rihga Royal Kyoto Hotel makes it a serene retreat in the bustling city of Kyoto. The rooms are equipped with a TV, fridge, seating area, desk, free Wi-Fi, and room service is also available.

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Vanaf € 5.198,53

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