Arrive Tokyo
Upon arrival in Tokyo, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and transferred to your hotel. The Peninsula Tokyo – 3 nights

Tokyo
Set out on an exploration of this cosmopolitan city. Enjoy panoramic views from the main observatory of Tokyo Tower. Stop by the Imperial Palace Plaza located next to the Imperial Palace, home of the Emperor of Japan. Visit the ancient Asakusa Kannon Temple and the traditional Nakamise Shopping Arcade. Your final stop is the Tasaki Pearl Gallery to see the process of pearl cultivation. (B)

Tokyo
Spend the day at leisure and explore the city at your own pace. (B)

Option: If you like, choose from two optional activities:

Full-day Tokyo Tour: Highlights include a visit to the Fukagawa Edo Museum and Ginza area. Following lunch, visit Hamarikyu Garden and enjoy a cruise on Tokyo Bay.

Sumo Wrestling Tournament: Attend a tournament of Sumo Wrestling, one of Japan’s national sports. Also visit the Sumo Museum and experience a Dohyo-iri (entering the ring) ceremony at the amphitheater.

Note: Available only in the months of January, May and September. Please contact your tour consultant for details.

To Hakone
Embark upon a scenic drive to Mount Fuji. Go to the end of the paved road at the 5th Station of Mt. Fuji (subject to weather; in case of bad weather, you will visit the Fuji Visitor Center). Tour the magnificent Hakone National Park. After a traditional Japanese lunch, embark on a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ashi. Ride an aerial cableway up and down at Mt. Komagatake for stunning views. Hyatt Regency Hakone – 1 night (B, L, D)

To Hiroshima
This morning, the bulk of your luggage will be delivered to your hotel in Kyoto, as only an overnight bag is required for your trip to Hiroshima on the Shinkansen (bullet train). Upon arrival, take a full-day tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima. Pay tribute to the victims of the bomb blast at the Peace Park and witness the aftermath of the blast through the photographs at the Atomic Bomb Museum. A short ferry ride takes you to the picturesque island of Miyajima. Admire the architectural beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine. Rihga Royal Hotel – 1 night (B)

Option: If you like, choose to overnight at a traditional Japanese Ryokan (guest house) in Miyajima.

Note: Your guide will not join you on the bullet train.

To Kyoto
Travel aboard the bullet train to Kyoto. Your city tour starts after you disembark at Shin Osaka station. Visit Osaka Castle and get some great deals as you shop at Shinsaibashi or Dotobori. Later, transfer to Kyoto. Hotel Okura – 3 nights (B)

Note: Your guide will not join you on the bullet train.

Kyoto
Discover Kyoto on a city tour. Visit the Kinkakuji Temple, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site; Ryoanji (Peaceful Dragon Temple), a Zen temple; and Nijo Castle, famous for its Momoyama architecture. Following a traditional lunch, attend the spectacular Maiko show (if a show is scheduled). End your day by witnessing the ritual of a Japanese tea ceremony. (B, L)

Kyoto
Pay a morning visit to Nara, home to Japan’s original emperors. Visit Todaiji Temple, Nara Park and Kasuga Shrine. Return to Kyoto and visit the hillside Fushima-Inari Shrine. End the day with a visit to the Sake Museum to learn more about Japan’s national drink. (B)

Option: Enjoy a rare opportunity to experience an evening of traditional Geisha entertainment, including traditional performances and a sumptuous Kyoto style meal.

Depart Osaka
Today you will be transferred to the Kansai International Airport in Osaka for your onward flight. (B)