Japan is a land of great contrast and captures the hearts of those who visit. A diverse culture rich in history has forged a path for unrivalled experiential tours. Our 12D/11N Culture and Cuisine tour takes you from the vibrant capital city of Tokyo on a trail through picturesque villages and former capitals. Experience the county's oldest Geisha district and discover the secret of the Japanese Soba noodle in a half day lesson with Master Chef Akila Inouye or one of his graduate specialists as they show you how to prepare and make this Japanese dish.

Watch locals practice famous handicrafts such as wood carving, tie-dying, weaving and lacquering. Wander old villages and towns preserved in time and visit local museums to learn about their intriguing pasts.

Voyage into the mystical mountains of koya-san for amazing photo opportunities, so don't forget your camera. Stay in traditional Japanese temple lodging and dine on classic Buddhist cuisine. Make you way to the former imperial capital of Kyoto and visit Kiyomizu (Pure Water) Temple, stand in amazement at the views over Kyoto from its 13m high veranda. With a local guide walk the mile-long Nishiki covered food markets and buy the ingredients for your Japanese cooking class. Visit a former sake brewery with a chance to taste this legendary tipple.

Culture and Cuisine define Japan and this fascinating tour provides a deep insight into those cultural and gastronomic practices that make it such an alluring country. 

Arrive in Tokyo, where you will be welcomed by our representative at the airport and assisted with transferring to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Overnight in Tokyo

Head out in the morning to the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market. Stroll through Hama-Rikyu Teien, a former private garden of an Edo Period Lord. Then cruise the Sumida River and visit Tokyo's old town containing the oldest Geisha district.

Overnight in Tokyo

Spend a half day learning the secrets behind the Japanese soba noodle with Master Chef Akila Inouye or one of the academies' graduate soba specialists as they show you how to prepare and make this Japanese staple.

Overnight in Tokyo

Take the famous bullet train to Takayama, a beautifully preserved old town with unique culture. Spend the evening relaxing in your kimono and dining on kaiseki.

Overnight in Takayama.

Spend your morning perusing the Miyagawa market to try locally grown produce.  Visit the Hida No Sato Folk Village open air museum and see how many local handicrafts are made.

Overnight in Takayama.

Travel to Osaka, widely regarded as 'Japan's Kitchen'. Spend the afternoon exploring this lively city at your leisure.

Overnight in Osaka.

From Osaka it's easy to visit Nara for the day. Visit the Todaiji temple, the world's largest wooden building and home to Japan's largest Buddha. Also wander through Nara Park, home to a population of tame deer.

Overnight in Osaka.

Take the train to holy Mt Koya, enjoying the views as it winds it way through the mountains. Make the final ascent to the summit by cable car.

Overnight in Koya-san.

Make an early start to witness the monks chanting their morning prayers. The rest of the day is free to further explore Koya-san before taking the train to Kyoto.

Overnight in Kyoto

Explore Kyoto with a knowledgeable guide. Visit sites such as the Golden Pavillion and Daitoku-ji temple complex. In the afternoon make your way to Kiyomizu (Pure Water) Temple and enjoy stunning views over Kyoto from the 13m high veranda.

Overnight in Kyoto

Walk the mile long Nishiki covered food market with a local guide and buy ingredients for a Japanese cooking class. Visit a former sake brewery for a tour with tasting. The evening is free to explore Kyoto.

Overnight in Kyoto

At your leisure before transferring to the airport.