SUICA CARD.

Collect a SUICA CARD on arrival at either Narita  Airport (at the JR EAST Travel Service Center and the Welcome Suica Ticket Vending Machines) OR Haneda airport (JR EAST Travel Service Center or at the Welcome Suica Ticket Vending Machines).

Suica card is free. You must enter some Japanese Yen to use as travel credit and you are ready to go.

We recommend taking the train from Tokyo airport into Asakusa station, then walk approximately 5 minutes to your hotel. Alternatively, private transfers can be arranged on request.

• 4 nights Yagura room at OMO3 Asakusa by Hoshino Resort , Tokyo.

Sensoji Temple is literally across the road from OMO3 Asakusa Hotel. Entrance is free and the temple is open 24 x 7. Sensoji Temple is Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic Buddhist temple, known for its majestic red gates, towering pagoda, and vibrant Nakamise shopping street. A perfect blend of history, culture, and spirituality, it offers a serene yet lively atmosphere in the heart of Asakusa.

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Centre is a great starting point for the day, located just a short walk from OMO3 Asakusa Hotel (free entrance).

They offer free English language guided walking tours and here you can get free tourist maps, information on cultural experiences such as cooking lessons or Sumo wrestling events. Enjoy a fantastic view of Asakusa from its observation deck and open terrace on 8th floor where you will also find a cozy café offering a selection of light meals, snacks, beers and other refreshments, perfect for a relaxing break with a view.

Ryogoku is a key district in Eastern Shitamachi, best known as the home of sumo wrestling and a hub for Edo-period history and culture. Located along the Sumida River, it offers a mix of traditional sports, historic sites, and museums, making it a great place to explore old Tokyo charm. It's about a 20 minute walk from Asakusa. Sumo Wrestling matches do take place at Ryogoku Kokugikan and you can  visit sumo training stables. Ryogoky has Shitamachi Vibes with its narrow alleys, local eateries and old wooden buildings, giving a historical and nostalgic feel.

Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, located in front of Shibuya Station in Tokyo. Famous for its organized chaos where hundreds (sometimes thousands) of people cross in multiple directions at once when the traffic lights turn red.

There are many spots to watch the crossing from above: Shibuya Sky – An observatory deck with a panoramic view. Entrance fee costs approx. £18. Starbucks Tsutaya – A second-floor café with a perfect view of the scramble. Hikarie view point, just across the street from Shibuya Scramble. Shibuya Fukuras's Shibu Niwa 17th floor rooftop garden. PARCO ROOFTOP PARK, an observation deck located on the 10th floor rooftop park of Shibuya PARCO.  Shibuya Scramble building, 12th floor. 

Kagurazaka is a historic and cultural district in central Tokyo, known for its Edo-era charm, traditional alleys, and French influence. Once a famous geisha district, it still retains its old-world atmosphere, making it a unique mix of Japanese tradition and European sophistication. Kagurazaka is worth a visit if time allows due to its traditional Edo-Era Streets – Stone-paved alleys, preserved wooden buildings, and hidden passageways and let's not forget its Geisha Culture – One of Tokyo’s last active geisha districts. You might spot a geisha or maiko in the evening. Kagurazaka is also renowned for its food scene – Famous for kaiseki (multi-course cuisine), unagi (grilled eel), soba noodles and izakayas. Romantic & Peaceful Atmosphere – A great place for a relaxed walk, especially at night when the lantern-lit streets feel nostalgic. From Shibuya, it's just a 10 minute train ride on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line to Iidabashi Station.

Omoide Yokocho, also known as "Memory Lane", a famous narrow alleyway in Shinjuku packed with tiny eateries and izakayas. It's known for its nostalgic post-war atmosphere, smoky grilled food and lively nightlife.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Tocho) in Shinjuku, which has free observation decks on the 45th floor of its twin towers. Tokyo’s skyline looks amazing after dark!

Kabukicho Red Light district is Tokyo’s largest and most famous red-light district, located in Shinjuku. It's a neon-lit nightlife hub filled with bars, host clubs, love hotels, hostess clubs, and entertainment venues. Despite its reputation, it's also a major tourist attraction with restaurants, arcades, and unique experiences. Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, with its giant giant Godzilla head on its rooftop is located here in Kabuchiko.

Shinjuku Gyoen is a beautiful, spacious park in the heart of Shinjuku, offering a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s busy streets. It’s famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring, well-manicured gardens and relaxing atmosphere.

Akihabara, Tokyo’s electronic, gaming and otaku culture hub. It’s famous for its vast selection of electronics, anime, manga, and video games. It's also known for its maid cafés and anime-themed shops, making it a unique, vibrant part of Tokyo. Akihabara is not really in Shinjuku itself but only 2 stops away by JR Yamanote Line.

Nakano is a vibrant district in western Tokyo, known for its unique blend of shopping, culture and entertainment. Nakano is generally known for its open-minded, LGBTQ+ and eclectic vibe. It offers a more relaxed and less touristy atmosphere compared to areas like Shibuya or Shinjuku, making it a great place to explore local Tokyo life. From Shinjuku, take JR Chūō Line OR JR Sobu Line and it's just a 5 minute train ride.

Take the morning bus from Tokyo/Shinjuku to Lake Kawaguchiko.

+/- 1pm Arrive at Fuji Kawaguchiko station, go to the Tourist Information office and ask them to contact Lakeland Hotel.

The hotel will then send their shuttle bus and drive you to the hotel located just ten minutes away.

Enjoy Onsen ( Spa ) and sauna at your hotel ( free of charge ) with indoor and outdoor heated pools.

• 2 nights Traditional Japanese room at Lakeland Hotel Mizunosato, Fujikawaguchiko ( Mount Fuji ).

Renting a bicycle at Lake Kawaguchiko is a great idea!

The area is bike-friendly, and cycling around the lake offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding nature.

You can ride along the scenic lakeside path, stopping at viewpoints, local attractions, and charming cafes.

Renting a bike gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and it's an enjoyable way to take in the beauty of the region.

There are several rental shops near the lake, and you can easily find options for both regular and electric bikes. The price for an all day e-bike rental is under £15 per person.

After breakfast, depart from your hotel and make your way to Kyoto. Travel duration: +/- 5 hours.

Your hotel shuttle will take you to Lake Kawaguchiko bus station.

With your bus ticket booked by us, take a one hour bus to Mishima bus station, then take your pre booked Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto.

Arrive in Kyoto and rest of the day free at leisure.

• 3 nights Superior room at The Machiya Ebisuya boutique hotel, Kyoto.

Morning:

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Start your day early by visiting the iconic Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto's stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf. Enjoy a peaceful walk around its beautiful gardens and the reflecting pond.

Ryoan-ji: Just a short distance away, explore the famous rock garden at Ryoan-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in the minimalist design and serene atmosphere.

Lunch: Head to the nearby Arashiyama district for a delicious traditional Japanese lunch, perhaps enjoying some Kyoto-style sushi or kaiseki (multi-course meal).

Afternoon:

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Wander through the enchanting bamboo forest in Arashiyama. Afterward, stroll over to the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples, and enjoy its beautiful garden.

Iwatayama Monkey Park: If you’re up for a short hike, head up to the monkey park for stunning views of Kyoto and some close encounters with the local macaques.

Evening:

Gion District: Spend your evening exploring the historic Gion district, Kyoto’s famous geisha quarter. Wander through its narrow streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, and if you're lucky, you might spot a geisha or maiko on their way to an appointment.

Dinner: Enjoy dinner at one of Gion's many restaurants, perhaps savoring kaiseki or a traditional Kyoto-style dish like yudofu (tofu hot pot).

Morning:

Fushimi Inari Taisha: Start the day early with a visit to Fushimi Inari, one of Kyoto’s most famous sites. Walk through thousands of red torii gates that lead up Mount Inari. It’s a beautiful and spiritual journey that takes around 2-3 hours depending on how far you go.

Lunch: Enjoy a meal near Fushimi Inari, such as Inari-zushi (sushi wrapped in seasoned rice and served in a pouch of tofu skin) or a bowl of ramen.

Afternoon:

Kiyomizu-dera: Head to Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views of Kyoto from its large wooden platform. The temple is famous for its “Otawa Waterfall” and its beautiful cherry blossom views in the spring.

Philosopher's Path: Take a peaceful walk along the Philosopher's Path, a scenic canal-side walk lined with hundreds of cherry trees (especially lovely during sakura season). Stop at Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), a Zen temple known for its beautiful garden and serene atmosphere.

Evening:

Nishiki Market: Wrap up your time in Kyoto with a visit to Nishiki Market, a lively street market filled with fresh produce, local specialties, and street food. Try some Kyoto delicacies such as pickles, mochi, or yuba (tofu skin).

Dinner: End your Kyoto experience with dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) or yudofu (tofu hot pot), which Kyoto is known for.

Make your way to Kyoto train station for your Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima which will take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Afternoon free at leisure. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is just a short three minute walk from your hotel.

• 2 nights Superior Park view room breakfast included at Hotel Mystays Hiroshima Peace Park.

1. Photogenic “Floating” Torii Gate
   • Itsukushima Shrine’s colossal red torii appears to float on the water at high tide—one of the world’s most celebrated vistas.
   • Sunrise and sunset light beautifully accentuate the gate’s reflection, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
2. UNESCO World Heritage & Ancient Shrine Complex
   • The shrine dates back to the 6th century, with the current structures rebuilt in the 12th century.
   • Stilted halls connected by boardwalks give you a sense of walking on water—an architectural marvel nestled in a bay.
3. Wild Deer & Carefree Ambiance
   • Friendly, free-roaming deer wander the streets, much like in Nara—perfect for animal lovers.
   • Their curious antics add a playful, almost fairytale-like vibe to your strolls.
4. Mount Misen’s Panoramic Hike
   • A network of trails ascends through mossy forests to the summit of Mount Misen (530 m).
   • At the top, expect sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea’s emerald isles—particularly stunning on clear days.
5. Ancient Sacred Sites & Forest Pathways
   • Along the way you’ll find hidden temples, moss-covered lanterns, and centuries‑old camphor trees revered in Shinto belief.
   • The “Momijidani” (Maple Valley) offers gorgeous foliage—especially radiant in autumn.
6. Local Treats & Momiji Manjū
   • Sample “momiji manjū,” maple‑leaf–shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste (and sometimes chestnut or chocolate).
   • Don’t miss fresh oysters from Hiroshima—served grilled or raw.
7. Serene Beach & Floating Onsen
   • Tsutsumigaura Beach provides a tranquil bay to relax or paddle in calm waters.
   • Nearby, hot spring resorts offer seaside onsen baths overlooking the water.
8. Compact, Car‑Free Island
   • At just 30 km², it’s easy to explore on foot or by bike.
   • No cars except service vehicles—peaceful streets and safe lanes.
9. Easy Access from Hiroshima
   • A short 30 min JR train ride + 10 min ferry from Hiroshima makes it a convenient day trip—or an overnight stay for quieter evening shrine vistas.
10. Deep Cultural & Spiritual Resonance

• The island itself has been considered sacred since ancient times—locals historically avoided burial or agriculture here to preserve purity.
• Visiting gives a window into Shintoism’s reverence for nature, water, and the divine.

Arrive at Osaka's main train station and make your way to your Osaka hotel using your Suica Card.

We have chosen a hotel in Osaka located in the vibrant and elegant neighbourhood of Yodoyabashi.

• 3 nights accommodation Deluxe room on B&B basis at Sotetsu Fresa Inn Osaka Yodoyabashi, Osaka 

Enjoy a morning walk along the Tosahori River or go shopping at nearby D-Building shopping centre located about ten minutes from your confirmed hotel. Prices are around 50% cheaper in shops like Muji or Uniqlo compared to UK prices! If you visit an optitian, like JINS optitian for example, they will check your eye sight and have high quality glasses ready for you in 30 minutes from as little as £45!

There are a couple of locations to visit in the evening:

Dōtonbori at night dazzles with neon-lit canal reflections, bustling street food stalls (takoyaki, okonomiyaki), and vibrant crowds. Its energetic atmosphere, iconic Glico running man sign, and riverside promenades make for an unforgettable sensory feast.

The other iconic nighttime spot in Osaka featuring a tower is Tsūtenkaku in the Shinsekai district. Often called “The Eiffel Tower of Osaka,” Tsūtenkaku is beautifully illuminated after dark and offers an observation deck with sweeping views over the city’s neon-lit streets.