Take in the main sights of Japan including Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone, Tsumago and Hiroshima and travelling independently by Japan's efficient public transportation network.
This trip highlights the very best of Japan from the towering skyscrapers of Tokyo through to the quiet and rural post town of Tsumago. You spend time in Kyoto, Japan's cultural heartland - home to hundreds of ancient temples and shrines, Geisha and traditional "kaiseki" cuisine. Travelling west from Kyoto you also visit Hiroshima, needing little introduction after the tragic events of 1945 but which is now a bright and vibrant city.
Nearby Miyajima Island's floating "torii" shrine gate is rated as one of Japan's top three most scenic spots and is beautiful at sunset, particularly when the high tide obscures the sand on which the gate is built. The Hakone National Park, just south of Tokyo, is a fitting contrast to the bustle of the capital city and is also the place from which to sport the elusive Mt Fuji and to soak away your worries in a thermal hot spring bath. All the contrasts of Japan are explored on this busy, yet well balanced itinerary.
Day by Day Itinerary & MapThere are plenty of ways to change this sample itinerary, either to extend your stay or experience different areas in more detail.