After breakfast, we depart at 12:30 PM for Mount Koya, a sacred mountain and the heart of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. The mountain is home to over 120 temples and monasteries and is one of Japan\'s most important spiritual sites. We visit the mystical Okuno Mausoleum, set in a forest with more than 200,000 ancient tombstones, followed by a tour of the historic Kongobuji Temple, founded in 1593. Tonight, you’ll experience a unique stay in a Buddhist monastery, including a special Zen meditation session (Ajikan) with the monks. Dinner included (vegetarian monastery meal). Guests may attend an optional early-morning prayer ceremony. Overnight stay: Mount Koya

After a traditional Japanese breakfast, we journey to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan and its ancient capital for over a thousand years. Our guided tour includes: The Imperial Palace The famous Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) The iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of red torii gates Enjoy some free time before visiting Gion, Kyoto’s charming geisha district, known for its wooden architecture, tea houses, and cultural traditions.

This morning, we boarded Japan’s world-renowned Shinkansen bullet train to Tokyo, covering nearly 500 km in just over two hours. In the late afternoon, explore Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts, using the efficient metro system (tickets included). Experience the fast-paced lifestyle and neon-lit streets that define modern Japan. Dinner included. Overnight stay: Tokyo

Start your day with a half-day city tour of Japan’s dynamic capital: Zojoji Temple with a view of Tokyo Tower and rows of protective Jizo statues The bustling Shibuya Crossing, famed as the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing Visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji Drive through elegant Omotesando Avenue Stop by Nijubashi Bridge near the Imperial Palace Pass through Akihabara, Japan’s hub for anime, manga, and electronics Drive past Ryogoku Sumo Stadium Next, explore Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered temple, followed by free time along the Nakamise shopping street. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Overnight stay: Tokyo Note: During major events like the Olympics, accommodation may be provided near Narita Airport.

After breakfast, depart for Nikko, a spiritual and natural haven. Visit: The lavish Toshogu Shrine, home to the famous \"see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil\" monkeys Kannanga Fuchi, a river path lined with moss-covered Jizo statues The peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum After some leisure time in Nikko, we travel to Sendai, a bustling city known for its culture, shopping, and nightlife. Overnight stay: Sendai

Following breakfast, head to the scenic bay town of Matsushima, known for its “Thousand Islands.” Enjoy traditional Japanese tea at a sea-view tea house Cruise the bay on a 50-minute scenic boat ride Lunch is included. Next, explore Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage site: Visit the sacred Chusonji Temple Experience Zen meditation at the tranquil Motsuiji Temple gardens End the day at Takkoku no Iwaya, a rock-carved temple from the 9th century Later, continue to Morioka, the capital of Iwate Prefecture. Overnight stay: Morioka

Start the day with a visit to Hirosaki Castle, surrounded by lush gardens and thousands of cherry trees (in season). Continue to Aomori, where you’ll visit the Nebuta Museum, home to vibrant, lantern-lit floats used in the famous Nebuta Festival. Lunch included. From there, board a ferry to Hakodate on Hokkaido Island. Upon arrival: Ascend Mount Hakodate by funicular for panoramic city views Explore the charming pedestrian center with European-style churches and architecture Overnight stay: Hakodate

After breakfast: Visit Hakodate’s lively fish market Climb Goryokaku Tower for aerial views of the star-shaped fortress Next, explore the serene natural beauty of Onuma Quasi-National Park, known for its picturesque lakes and islands. Lunch included. In the afternoon, journey to Noboribetsu, a volcanic region with: The steaming craters of Jigoku Dani (Hell Valley) Oyunuma, a hot spring lake A relaxing walk to a natural foot bath trail Later, we continue to Sapporo, capital of Hokkaido. Overnight stay: Sapporo

Enjoy a city tour of Sapporo, including: The Clock Tower and Odori Koen Park Visit to Hokkaido Jingu Shrine and take part in a Kito prayer ceremony Lunch is included. In the afternoon, visit: The Hill of the Buddha, a modern architectural masterpiece set amidst lavender fields The Moai statues, replicas from Easter Island Then, travel to Otaru, a charming canal town known for its preserved architecture, glassworks, and small museums. Return to Sapporo by evening. Overnight stay: Sapporo

After breakfast, make your way to the airport for your return flight to India. Tour ends with wonderful memories of traditional and northern Japan.