itinerary

Classic Japan

icon
location
Tokyo, Kanazawa, Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima
duration
13 nights from £6,450 per person

Discover Japan’s highlights on this classic journey through Tokyo, Kanazawa, Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and the beautiful island of Miyajima. Experience the contrast between modern cities and historic towns, from Tokyo’s vibrant energy to the traditional mountain charm of Takayama, including a memorable stay in a traditional ryokan. Explore Kyoto’s iconic temples and gardens, and reflect on Japan’s poignant history in Hiroshima. Visit scenic Miyajima, famed for its striking floating torii gate, before returning to Tokyo to complete your journey. This itinerary offers a perfectly balanced introduction to Japan’s culture, history, and landscapes.

Quote icon svg

Highlights

icon
  • Seamless travel across Japan on the iconic Shinkansen bullet train, fast, efficient, and smooth.
  • Vibrant Tokyo blending neon skylines with traditional districts, temples, and ever-evolving urban energy.
  • Culinary delights from street food stalls to regional specialities and authentic local dining experiences.
  • Atmospheric towns like Kanazawa and Takayama featuring preserved streets, heritage buildings, and mountain scenery.
  • An authentic stay in a traditional ryokan with tatami rooms, warm hospitality, and cultural tradition.
  • Timeless cultural treasures in historic Kyoto, home to elegant temples, shrines, and centuries of history.
  • Reflective history and resilience in Hiroshima, a city of peace, remembrance, and modern renewal.
  • The scenic island of Miyajima offering coastal beauty, sacred sites, and its iconic floating torii gate.
  • Diverse landscapes from alpine valleys to countryside, forests, and dramatic coastal scenery throughout Japan.
  • Iconic shrines, temples, and heritage districts revealing Japan’s deep cultural traditions and historic legacy.
  • Return to dynamic Tokyo for final exploration, shopping, and enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Itinerary

icon
Arrive 
Tokyo Haneda
Day
-
Palace Hotel Tokyo
Tokyo
,
Japan
Arrow Icon left
Arrow Icon right

Palace Hotel Tokyo is a refined urban sanctuary overlooking the Imperial Palace gardens, where contemporary Japanese elegance meets timeless hospitality. Calm, spacious, and impeccably designed, it offers a rare sense of tranquillity in the heart of the city.

Read more
Day
-
Beniya Mukayu
Kanazawa
,
Japan
Arrow Icon left
Arrow Icon right

Hidden among the forested hills of Yamashiro Onsen, just outside Kanazawa, Beniya Mukayu is a sanctuary of meditative calm. Designed by architect Kiyoshi Sey Takeyama, it blends Zen simplicity with warm minimalism — all light woods, open space, and private outdoor baths. It’s not just a stay — it’s an immersion in Japanese philosophy, hospitality, and stillness.

Read more
Day
-
Hidatei Hanaougi
Takayama
,
Japan
Arrow Icon left
Arrow Icon right

Nestled in the serene Hida Takayama Onsen area, Hidatei Hanaougi is a refined ryokan that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts. The property features private open-air hot spring baths, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the therapeutic waters sourced directly from the ryokan’s own spring. The ryokan’s design emphasises natural materials and craftsmanship, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury and tranquility.

Read more
Day
-
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
,
Japan
Arrow Icon left
Arrow Icon right

Resting on the banks of the Kamogawa River, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto blends the refined lines of a traditional machiya townhouse with the polish of world-class service. Suites open onto river views and private gardens, while interiors celebrate artisanal Kyoto craftsmanship — from lacquered wood to washi textures. It’s modern Kyoto elegance with deep cultural roots.

Read more
Day
-
Hilton Hiroshima
Hilton Hiroshima
,
Japan
Arrow Icon left
Arrow Icon right

Hilton Hiroshima is a contemporary high-rise hotel in the heart of the city, offering modern comfort, panoramic urban views, and easy access to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and cultural landmarks. With refined design, spacious rooms, and extensive facilities, it serves as a stylish base for both business and leisure stays.

Read more
Depart 
Tokyo Haneda
1-4
5-6
7-8
9-11
12-15

What you'll see

Arrow Icon left
Arrow Icon right

When to go

Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain
Temp
Rain

Pricing and inclusions

For honeymoon or family pricing, please contact us

Disclaimer: Prices will be recalculated using the latest exchange rates and offers
INclusions
exclusions
Nelson travel enquire now circle logoEnquire now ARC text

Start planning your tailor-made holiday

Speak to one of our travel specialists below

Call usEnquire now
Lizzy Nelson Grayscale photo
Ben Nelson Grayscale photo
Available now