Insider Journeys SGJ Japan 2025 / 2026 - AUD

JAPAN

SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS 2025 / 2026 GUARANTEED WITH 4 TRAVELLERS MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE 14 - 16 PEOPLE FREQUENT DEPARTURES EVERY MONTH

WHY TRAVEL WITH INSIDER JOURNEYS… SMALL GROUP SIZE MAXIMUM 16 One of the most popular features of our tours is the small group size. We limit groups to a maximum of 16 people so you can enjoy a more personalised, more authentic Asian experience. Our small groups ensure more time with your Local Expert, more time to make new friends, less time waiting, and more time for you to enjoy the amazing destinations throughout your journey.

SAFE AND RELIABLE For more than 30 years, Insider Journeys has been safely and reliably sharing the beauty of Asia. We are the only Tour Operator with our own offices in several countries throughout Asia. Our local partners live and work in the destinations we serve, bringing you the perfect combination of local authenticity with international service and support.

GETTING AROUND We don’t do ‘bus tours’… we do Small Group Journeys.

Whether it’s a tuk-tuk, jeep safari, or bullet train, you’ll get a local experience when it provides the best sightseeing or transport opportunity.

Otherwise, road journeys are in our comfortable air-conditioned vehicles. We keep it small and never use large coaches.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH An unforgettable experience starts with the unexpected. We’ll make sure you see the most popular highlights of our destinations… but then we’ll show you the places you wouldn’t find on your own, and Asia is full of these hidden treasures. From conversations with local families, feasting in street food stalls, and shopping in hidden local markets, we’ll make sure you go home with memories of an amazing connection to Asia.

LOCAL EXPERTS

INDEPENDENCE AND FLEXIBILITY

Your local leaders and guides are one of the most important elements of your trip. They are the people you see the most, the person who answers your questions, the person who helps to shape your impression of a destination. In recognition of this important relationship, our guides are truly passionate, local experts who are carefully selected and trained to look out for you, to share the history and knowledge that only a local can provide, and to expect the unexpected. Many of our guides have worked with us for years, and feel like a part of our family, just as they will soon feel like a part of yours.

An ideal tour is a balance of activity and relaxation. We know sometimes you want to explore on your own, eat on your own, or relax on your own. So we include moments of leisure without any scheduled activities, where you have the freedom to be spontaneous, to choose your own meals, to choose your own experiences, and to enjoy your holiday as you see fit.

BESPOKE ACCOMMODATION A quality hotel is an essential element of an enjoyable holiday. Our hand-picked selections were chosen specifically for their location, charm and culture to ensure your journey is comfortable.

MORE ABOUT US

HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN 10 Days / 9 Nights

WHAT TO EXPECT Experience the world of sumo as you join sumo wrestlers for a delectable ‘chanko’ sumo lunch, while learning about their unique traditions.

Step into the shoes of a sumo wrestler by trying on a sumo suit and testing your skills against a professional.

Explore the enchanting bamboo groves of Arashiyama, near Kyoto, as you wander along meandering paths amidst towering bamboo stalks. Indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal in Kyoto, accompanied by the captivating entertainment of a Maiko.

Seize the opportunity to gain insider knowledge about the intriguing life of an apprentice Geisha, adding an extra layer of fascination to your journey.

10 DAYS FROM

$ 6,422 PER PERSON DEPARTURE ON SUNDAY GUARANTEED WITH 4 PEOPLE

Tour prices include: • 8 nights hotel accommodation • 1 night in a ryokan, traditional Japanese guesthouse • All high-speed train travel as specified in the itinerary • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles • Entrance Fees • English-speaking Tour Leader • Return arrival and departure transfers (conditions apply) • Meals as indicated

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo, you will be transferred to your hotel. Take advantage of some free time to unwind and explore the city at your own pace. You will be staying in Tokyo for two nights, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and discovering its captivating attractions.

Day 2: Tokyo (B/L) Explore Tokyo on foot and the underground rail network. Visit serene Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s most famous Shinto shrine with a 12 metre high torii gate at the entrance. Continue to the Imperial Palace to see Nijubashi, a metal bridge built in 1888. Travel by train to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s liveliest districts, and home to some of the city’s best street food, and old izakaya and yakitori restaurants. Spend time exploring Asakusa before returning to your hotel.

Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D) Take the train from Tokyo to Hakone, best known for its views of the mountains, natural beauty and hot springs. Travel on the ropeway for beautiful views of Lake Ashi and on a clear day, see iconic Mount Fuji. Sail across the waters of Lake Ashi on a pirate ship before returning to your accommodation. Stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese guesthouse and enjoy a delicious dinner, soak in the onsen and sleep on a futon mattress in an immaculate tatami-floored room.

Day 4: Hakone to Takayama (B) Travel by train from Hakone to the ancient town of Takayama, celebrated for its remarkably preserved old town district and authentic ambiance. Indulge in a delightful bento box lunch during your journey. Explore the historical significance of Takayama Jinya, a former government building that provides fascinating insights into Japan’s rich history. Take a leisurely stroll along Kami Sannomachi Street, admiring the meticulously preserved traditional wooden houses that line the charming streets. Marvel at the intricate festival floats showcased at Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan.

Afterward, enjoy some free time to further immerse yourself in the town’s charm before making your way back to the hotel.

Day 5: Takayama (B) Enjoy a day of leisure in Takayama, allowing you the freedom to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace. Consider visiting the renowned Shirakawago, a World Heritage Listed protected village admired for its breath-taking natural beauty and distinctive steeply pitched thatched roofs, ingeniously designed to endure the region’s heavy winter snowfall. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Takayama by discovering the shrines and temples of the Teramachi district. For another captivating experience, take a short journey to Hida-Furukawa, where you

HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN 10 Days / 9 Nights

can admire the well-preserved buildings that reflect the town’s historical charm.

Embrace the day and create your own unique adventure, immersing yourself in the captivating wonders of Takayama.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Day 6: Takayama to Kyoto (B) Travel to Kyoto by train, known as Japan’s cultural capital and revered for its Geisha traditions and royal cuisine. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. In the late afternoon, participate in a walking tour along Ponto-cho and Hanami-koji Lane in the Gion district, renowned for their traditional atmosphere.

Keep a lookout as you may have the chance to witness a Geisha walking between appointments.

Day 7: Kyoto (B) Spend the day walking and travelling by public transport to discover Kyoto’s highlights. Take the train to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and marvel at the towering stalks of bamboo before continuing to Tenryuji Temple. See Katsura River from Togetsukyo Bridge and take the iconic purple Randen Train to Ryoanji Temple, the site of the most famous rock garden in Japan. Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), an elegant, gilded 14th century building which is one of Japan’s most cherished sites.

Day 8: Kyoto (B) NEW - now include day trip to Nara At 9:00 AM, you‘ll meet your guide at Kyoto Station, where you‘ll hop on a local train to Nara for a scenic ride of about an hour (ticket included, no reserved seats). Upon

arrival, you‘ll stroll through Nara Deer Park, making your way to the historic Todaiji Temple. At 10:45 AM, you‘ll have the chance to admire the awe-inspiring Great Buddha inside Todaiji Temple (ticket included).

Afterward, take a break and enjoy lunch at Higashimuki and Mochidono Shopping Street, immersing yourself in the local flavors. At 1:30 PM, you‘ll board a train to Horyu-ji Temple, renowned as the world’s oldest wooden structure (ticket included).

Finally, around 6:00 PM, you‘ll return to your hotel to unwind after a day of cultural exploration.

Day 9: Kyoto (B/D) At 8:30 AM, you‘ll meet your guide in the hotel lobby to begin your day. By 9:30 AM, you‘ll arrive at the famous Kiyomizu Dera Temple, followed by a stroll through the charming streets of Ninen Zaka and Kiyomizu Zaka (ticket included). Around 12:30 PM, after a brief tour of Nishiki Market, you‘ll have some free time to explore at your own pace or return to the hotel for a break.

In the late afternoon at 4:30 PM, you‘ll meet your guide again for a leisurely walk through the historic Gion District, leading you to your dinner destination, which could be in Pontocho, Shinbashi, or Hanamikoji.

At 6:00 PM, you‘ll enjoy a delightful dinner in the company of a Maiko or Geisha (ticket included), rounding off the evening before returning to your hotel at 8:00 PM. Day 10: Departure from Kyoto (B) Enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel before making your own way to Kyoto Station and onward to the airport for your departure. Thank you for joining us on this wonderful journey!

IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATION Please note that the outgoing transfer from Kyoto to your next destination is not included in the tour fare, but we would be happy to arrange it for you with an additional surcharge.

JAPAN´S TIMELESS SPLENDOURS 13 Days / 12 Nights

WHAT TO EXPECT Discover the cultural and scenic wonders of Japan with this 13day itinerary, exploring iconic cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, alongside hidden gems such as Kanazawa, Beppu, and Kumamoto.

Highlights include visits to Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, and Mt. Aso; a serene cruise on the Sumida River; the beauty of Kenrokuen Garden; Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest; and Beppu’s famous onsen experiences.

Enjoy local cuisine, visit historic sites like Kumamoto Castle, and take a scenic ferry ride to Osaka, completing your immersive journey through Japan’s history, nature, and culture.

13 DAYS FROM

$ 9,073 PER PERSON DEPARTURE ON SUNDAY GUARANTEED WITH 4 PEOPLE

Tour prices include: • 11 nights hotel accommodation • 1 night on a ferry • All high-speed train travel as specified in the itinerary • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles • Entrance Fees • English-speaking Tour Leader • Return arrival and departure transfers (conditions apply) • Meals as indicated

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo Upon arriving in Tokyo at either Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your assistant guide at the arrival gate. From there, you‘ll enjoy a comfortable bus transfer to your hotel (ticket included), followed by a short, leisurely walk—less than 10 minutes—from the bus stop to your accommodation. Settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Tokyo (B) Your exploration of Tokyo begins with a 9:00 AM meeting in the hotel lobby, where your guide will give a brief introduction to the day’s activities. At 10:00 AM, you‘ll visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks, and stroll through the lively Nakamise Street. Next, enjoy a scenic 35-minute cruise on the Sumida River, offering a different perspective of the city (ticket included). At 12:15 PM, you’ll take a peaceful walk through Hamarikyu Garden, an Edo-period gem (ticket included). Lunch is at your leisure, with options like the Tsukiji Outer Market or nearby restaurants (not included). In the afternoon, experience the excitement of the famous Shibuya Crossing before returning to the hotel around 5:00 PM. Day 3: Tokyo to Kanazawa (B) Your day begins at 9:15 AM with a meeting in the hotel lobby, where your guide will assist with transferring your main luggage to Kyoto, while you pack an overnight bag for Kanazawa (ticket included). At 10:22 AM, board the bullet train (Kagayaki 509) to Kanazawa, arriving at 12:49 PM (ticket included). After arrival, you’ll have free time to explore Omicho Market, where you can enjoy lunch at one of the market’s many fresh seafood stalls (not included).

In the afternoon, visit the tranquil D.T. Suzuki Museum (ticket included) before checking in at your hotel around 5:30 PM. Day 4: Kanazawa (B) Meet your guide at 9:00 AM for a day of exploring Kanazawa’s historical and cultural sites.

Begin with a visit to Kenrokuen Garden at 9:30 AM, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape

gardens (ticket included). At 11:00 AM, you’ll step back in time at the Shima Old Geisha House (ticket included), followed by some free time to explore the Higashi Chaya Geisha District and enjoy lunch at your own pace. The afternoon takes you to the Samurai Residence, Kurando Terashima‘s House, at 2:30 PM (ticket included), before returning to your hotel at 4:00 PM. Day 5: Kanazawa to Kyoto (B) At 9:15 AM, meet your guide to begin your journey from Kanazawa to Kyoto. Depart Kanazawa at 9:54 AM via the bullet train (Tsurugi 15) to Tsuruga, followed by a transfer to the Limited Express (Thunder Bird 16), arriving in Kyoto at 11:39 AM (ticket included). Once in Kyoto, drop off your bags at the hotel if needed and head to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine at 1:00 PM. Here, you’ll have time to explore the surrounding Sando street, known for its quaint shops and food stalls, before checking into your hotel at 4:00 PM. Day 6: Kyoto (B) Start your day at 9:00 AM with a visit to the magnificent Kiyomizu Temple at 10:00 AM (ticket included), followed by free time to wander the charming streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, where you can stop for lunch at

JAPAN´S TIMELESS SPLENDOURS 13 Days / 12 Nights

one of the many traditional tea houses (not included). At 2:00 PM, take a peaceful stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest before heading to the historic Gion District.

Here, you’ll visit Kenninji Temple (ticket included) at 3:30 PM, before returning to your hotel by 5:00 PM. Day 7: Kyoto to Fukuoka (B) Meet your guide at 8:30 AM and walk to Kyoto Station for your bullet train journey to Hakata, Fukuoka. Your luggage will be transferred to Beppu, so pack an overnight bag for Fukuoka. At 9:25 AM, board the Nozomi bullet train, arriving in Hakata at 12:09 PM (ticket included). After lunch at Hakata Station (not included), visit the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum at 1:45 PM (ticket included) and explore the nearby Kushida Shrine. Check in to your hotel at 4:30 PM, then head out at 6:00 PM to visit the lively Yatai food stalls, where you can sample local specialties with your guide’s help (meal not included).

Day 8: Fukuoka to Kumamoto (B) Start the day at 8:30 AM with a bullet train ride (Sakura 543) to Kumamoto, arriving at 10:06 AM (ticket included). From the station, transfer to Mt. Aso, where you’ll take in breathtaking views at the Mt. Aso View Point around noon (ticket included). Afterward, transfer back to Kumamoto for a visit to the majestic Kumamoto Castle at 3:00 PM (ticket included), before returning to your hotel for a restful evening.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Day 9: Kumamoto to Beppu (B) At 9:00 AM, depart with your guide to Takachiho Gorge, where you’ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch at your own pace (not included). Afterward, visit the Amano Iwato Shrine and, if time allows, the nearby Amano Yasukawara Cave. In the afternoon, transfer to Beppu, arriving at your hotel around 6:30 PM for check-in.

Day 10: Beppu’s Thermal Wonders (B) Meet your guide at 9:00 AM to explore Beppu’s famous hot springs and thermal

activities. Start with a ride on the Mt. Tsurumi Ropeway for stunning panoramic views at 10:00 AM (ticket included). At 1:00 PM, participate in an Onsen steam cooking class and enjoy a unique lunch prepared using natural geothermal steam (ticket included).

In the afternoon, visit the Jigoku Onsen Museum (ticket included) and the mesmerizing Umijigoku (Sea Blue Hell) hot spring (ticket included), before returning to your hotel to relax in the onsen. Dinner is available at a nearby restaurant (not included).

Day 11: Beppu to Osaka via Ferry SunFlower (B) Enjoy a free day in Beppu to explore at your leisure. You can experience more onsen, take a trip to Yufuin, or join hands-on activities at Space Beppu. Your main luggage will be transferred to Osaka, arriving the next day. In the evening, meet your guide at 4:45 PM to transfer to the port by local bus and board the Ferry SunFlower at 6:45 PM (ticket included). Dinner is available on board (not included).

Day 12: Osaka (B/D) Arrive at Osaka Port at 6:35 AM and transfer to your hotel. After dropping off your luggage, enjoy a short break or grab a coffee before starting the day. At 9:00 AM, visit Osaka Castle and its beautiful garden (ticket included). At noon, explore the Umeda Sky Building Observatory (ticket included) for stunning views of the city. After some relaxation at your hotel in the afternoon, head to Dotonbori at 5:00 PM for a farewell dinner at a traditional izakaya (ticket included).

Day 13: Departure from Osaka (B) On your final day, make your way to the station or airport for your departure, filled with memories of your unforgettable journey through Japan.

JAPAN´S HIDDEN TREASURES 14 Days / 13 Nights

WHAT TO EXPECT This 14-day journey through Japan offers a perfect blend of cultural discovery and scenic beauty.

Begin by exploring Tokyo’s vibrant districts and historical landmarks before heading to the serene landscapes of Hakone. Enjoy a traditional stay in Takayama and marvel at the lively streets of Osaka.

Visit Hiroshima’s poignant Peace Memorial Park and take a ferry to Miyajima Island. The tour concludes in Kyoto, where you’ll experience Zen temples, a traditional tea ceremony, and a farewell dinner with a Maiko performance.

Highlights include visits to Mount Fuji, Itsukushima Shrine, and Fushimi Inari’s iconic torii gates.

14 DAYS FROM

$ 8,934 PER PERSON DEPARTURE ON SUNDAY GUARANTEED WITH 4 PEOPLE

Tour prices include: • 13 nights hotel accommodation • All high-speed train travel as specified in the itinerary • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles • Entrance Fees • English-speaking Tour Leader • Return arrival and departure transfers (conditions apply) • Meals as indicated

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo Upon arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport, you will be greeted by an English-speaking assistant in the arrival lobby. If you‘re unable to locate the assistant, don’t worry – they may be momentarily assisting other guests, and you’ll find their contact information in your pre-departure guide. The assistant will provide you with a bus ticket and guide you to the correct bus stop for your transfer to the hotel. The airport bus will take you directly to your hotel or to a bus stop within a 10-minute walk of the hotel. Feel free to ask the assistant for any further guidance before they leave. Settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening after your arrival.

Your welcome briefing will be held the next morning.

grounds, you’ll learn about the profound impact of Buddhism on Japanese culture. If time permits, you might wander to nearby Kappabashi Dori, a street lined with specialty stores selling everything from kitchenware to plastic food displays. Next, ascend to the 450-meterhigh observation deck of the Tokyo Skytree, offering panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis below. In the afternoon, head to Yanaka Old Town, a quiet and picturesque neighborhood that survived the bombing of World War II. Take a peaceful stroll through Yanaka Cemetery, a serene place that feels more like a park than a burial ground. If you‘re interested in fabrics and sewing, a stop at nearby Nippori Fabric Town can be arranged. As with the day before, expect significant walking.

Day 2: Tokyo (B) After breakfast, meet your fellow travelers and your tour leader in the hotel lobby for a welcome briefing at 9:00 am. It’s a great opportunity to get to know each other and prepare for the adventure ahead. You will then explore the city using Tokyo‘s extensive railway network. Your first stop is the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, the leader who opened Japan to the West. The entrance to this shrine is marked by a grand, 12-meter-high torii gate made of ancient cypress trees, setting the tone for the serene walk through the shrine‘s vast 200-acre forest.

From there, take a stroll through Harajuku’s vibrant Takeshita Dori, a street famous for its trendy shops, colorful boutiques, and unique street food stands. A short train ride will bring you to Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s liveliest districts. Shibuya is renowned for its iconic pedestrian crossing, bustling with life under giant neon advertisements and video screens. End your day at one of Tokyo’s famous department store food halls, or “depachika,” where you can sample a variety of culinary delights before returning to your hotel for a free evening.

Be prepared for plenty of walking and using public transportation.

Day 4: Tokyo to Hakone (B/D) After breakfast, meet your guide in the lobby at 8:45 am. Today, you’ll be transferring to Hakone, known for its scenic views and natural hot springs. Your main luggage will be sent ahead to your hotel in Takayama, so you’ll need to pack an overnight bag for your stay in Hakone. Board the train and head to Hakone, a historical rest stop since the 16th century.

Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi, followed by a ride on a ropeway (weather permitting) for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and, in the distance, the majestic Mount Fuji. In the evening, check into your traditional Japanese hotel and experience a night of luxury. Slip into your yukata and relax in the on-site onsen before indulging in a traditional Japanese dinner. Depending on availability, you may stay in a Japanese-style room with tatami flooring and futon bedding or a Western-style room.

Day 3: Tokyo (B) Today begins with a visit to the bustling Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and most cherished temple in Tokyo. As you explore the temple

Day 5: Hakone to Takayama (B) This morning, meet your guide at 8:20 am and travel by train to the mountain town of Takayama. Along the way, enjoy the scenic views as you ride the bullet train to Nagoya, where you’ll transfer to a limited express train to Takayama. Arriving around 2 pm, explore Takayama’s beautifully preserved streets and

JAPAN´S HIDDEN TREASURES 14 Days / 13 Nights

wooden houses. Wander through Kami Sannomachi Street, a charming area filled with craft shops, food stores, and sake breweries.

Enjoy an evening stroll along the banks of the Miyagawa River, taking in the town‘s rich history and craftsmanship.

Day 6: Takayama to Kanazawa (B) Start your morning with a visit to the Miyagawa Morning Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce, sweets, and traditional crafts. Next, explore the historic Takayama Jinya, a former government building that provides fascinating insights into Japan’s feudal past. In the afternoon, board a private coach and travel to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses, known as gassho-zukuri. These picturesque homes, nestled among the mountains and fields, offer a glimpse into Japan’s rural life.

Afterward, continue to Kanazawa for an overnight stay.

Day 7: Kanazawa (B) Today, you’ll discover the historical treasures of Kanazawa, a city that was spared from bombing during World War II. Begin your day with a visit to Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, known for its seasonal beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Next, head to Omicho Market, where you can explore over 300 years of food culture. This bustling market is the perfect place to sample fresh seafood and regional delicacies. After lunch (on your own), visit the Shima Teahouse, a beautifully preserved 19th-century teahouse offering a glimpse into Japan’s geisha culture.

End your day in the Higashi Chaya District, where you can wander through the narrow streets lined with Edo-period architecture, tea houses, and shops.

Day 8: Kanazawa to Osaka (B) After breakfast, transfer to Osaka by train.

Your luggage will be sent ahead to your hotel, so you’ll need an overnight bag. Upon arrival, dive into the energetic atmosphere of Osaka, Japan’s second-largest city. Visit the famous Dotonbori district, known for its

WHAT TO EXPECT

neon lights, street food, and lively nightlife. In the afternoon, explore Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. The castle is surrounded by expansive grounds and gardens, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and cherry blossom viewing in season. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.

Day 9: Osaka - Nara Day Trip (B) Today, take a day trip to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. After a scenic train ride, visit the famous Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha of Nara, a colossal bronze statue standing at 15 meters tall. Stroll through Nara Park, where you’ll encounter friendly deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods. Next, venture to Horyu-ji Temple, the world’s oldest wooden structure. After exploring Nara, return to Osaka in the evening.

Day 10: Osaka to Hiroshima (B/L) Board the bullet train to Hiroshima, a city forever marked by the events of August 6, 1945. After arriving, enjoy a lunch of Hiroshima’s specialty, okonomiyaki. Spend the afternoon visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb and the pursuit of a peaceful world. You will also see the A-Bomb Dome, a haunting yet powerful symbol

of Hiroshima’s history. After this sobering experience, enjoy a free evening to explore Hiroshima’s lively modern city center.

Day 11: Hiroshima - Miyajima Island to Kyoto (B) In the morning, take a ferry to Miyajima Island, known for its stunning floating torii gate and the peaceful Itsukushima Shrine.

Explore the island’s charming streets, filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops offering local delicacies. Afterward, return to Hiroshima and take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, where you will spend the night.

Day 12: Kyoto (B) Your day in Kyoto begins with a visit to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, wander through Ninnenzaka, a traditional area with beautifully preserved medieval architecture. After a leisurely lunch, continue to Kennin-ji, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, before ending your tour at Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 golden statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. In the afternoon, enjoy a special tea ceremony, where a kimono-clad instructor will introduce you to the art of cha-no-yu, the Japanese tea ceremony.

Day 13: Kyoto (B/D) Begin your morning with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind through the mountainside. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore Kyoto at your own pace.

In the evening, experience the magic of Kyoto’s geisha culture with a guided walk through the Gion district, followed by a farewell dinner accompanied by a traditional Maiko performance. This exclusive experience allows you to interact with a Maiko, a young apprentice geisha, and pose for pictures while enjoying a delectable meal.

Day 14: Departure from Kyoto (B) Its time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home.

KUALA LUMPUR

MALAYSIA’S VIBRANT CAPITAL CITY – KUALA LUMPUR - IS KNOWN FOR ART AND CULTURE, SHOPPING AND DINING, WITH CHOICES EXTENDING FROM HUGE SHOPPING CENTERS AND CONTEMPORARY CAFÉS TO SHOPHOUSES AND STREET FOOD.

The iconic glass-and-steel 451m-tall Petronas Twin Towers dominate the city’s skyline. The towers offer visitors a skybridge and observation deck for those who can brave its heights. The city is home to colonial British landmarks such as Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. At the city’s northern edge is Batu Caves, natural limestone caves which have been made into Hindu temples. Bukit Bintang offers unique entertainment, boutique designers, and extravagant retail shopping. The art deco Central Market houses various specialty merchants while tiny, beautiful shops adorn Brickfields (Little India) and Chinatown. Malaysian culture and history are on display at the National Museum and the Islamic Arts Museum.

BANGKOK

THAILAND‘S FAMOUS CAPITAL IS AN ENORMOUS CITY KNOWN FOR LAVISH BUDDHIST TEMPLES AND LIVELY NIGHT LIFE.

Winding through the center, the bustling Chao Phraya River feeds the canals of the old city, streaming past the iconic “Temple of the Dawn,” Wat Arun, the lavish Grand Palace and its holy Wat Phra Kaew, the “Temple of the Emerald Buddha.” Close by is Wat Pho Temple with a gigantic reclining Buddha.

The Jim Thompson House and M.R. Kukrit House are two of the best-preserved examples of traditional Thai teak architecture. Bangkok is famous worldwide for its food scene. From Michelin-starred gourmet restaurants to food trucks and street food, Bangkok will serve up the sweet, sour, spicy, salty treats you crave. If it’s vibrant nightlife you’re looking for, you will find it throughout the city in chic and trendy rooftop bars and notorious nightclubs. For those more interested in shopping, you can choose from the luxury malls of the Chit Lom and Siam neighborhoods to Chatuchak Weekend Market, southeast Asia’s largest outdoor market with more than 15,000 stalls.

SINGAPORE

ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST IMPORTANT FINANCIAL CENTERS, THE TROPICAL, MULTICULTURAL, ISLAND CITY-STATE OF SINGAPORE SITS JUST OFF THE COAST OF SOUTHERN MALAYSIA.

Dating back to colonial times, Singapore’s center is built around the Padang, a cricket field since the 1830s and now surrounded by City Hall and other impressive buildings. Singapore is full of striking cultural structures. The National Museum of Singapore contains displays on the city’s neoclassical culture and history. Visit Chinatown and walk through the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, adorned in red and gold, and believed to house one of Buddha’s teeth. Or see the quiet Lian Shan Shuang Lin Buddhist monastery, bright Sri Mariamman Hindu sanctuary and the enormous Sultan Mosque. Get your shopping fix at the luxury shopping centers of Orchard Road and the in-vogue boutiques of Kampong Glam.

Look for souvenirs in Little India and textiles on Arab Street. Get some street food in Tiong Bahru and Maxwell Road. And don’t forget iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel and SkyPark rising 200m over the water with amazing view of the city.

HONG KONG

AS A FORMER BRITISH COLONY, HONG KONG MAINTAINS A SPECIAL STATUS IN SOUTHEASTERN CHINA.

One of the world’s most densely-populated urban cores is a worldwide financial center with a high-rise studded horizon that is second to none. Cable car rides up to Victoria Peak offer the best views of Hong Kong and Victoria Harbour. Board a Star Ferry boat to cross Victoria Harbor to the Kowloon Peninsula. Look for Nathan Road, the “Golden Mile of Shopping,” the collectible shops of Hollywood Road, the bespoke tailors, or the Temple Street Night Market. Hong Kong is another Asian city known for its vivacious food scene, from Cantonese dim sum to extravagant afternoon tea. WVisit Lantau Island, renowned for its gigantic bronze Tian Tan Buddha. Walk along the waterfront promenade in Tsim Sha Tsui. Explore Man Mo Temple, dedicated to the divine forces of literature and war.

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