Morning City Immersion After a satisfying breakfast, embark on an extensive five-hour guided tour that reveals Tokyo\'s incredible complexity. Your expert guide navigates you through this magnificent city where ultra-modern districts coexist harmoniously with tranquil traditional neighborhoods, creating a fascinating urban tapestry unlike anywhere else on earth. Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower Begin at Zojoji Temple for the perfect photographic opportunity with Tokyo Tower as your backdrop. Marvel at the hundreds of Jizo statues - carved stone guardian deities traditionally dressed in tiny hats, robes, and equipped with colorful pinwheels. These compassionate protectors guide travelers, strengthen the vulnerable including children, and watch over those in dangerous situations. Shibuya Crossing - Organized Chaos Experience the famous Shibuya Junction, widely recognized as the world\'s busiest pedestrian intersection. Watch thousands of people cross simultaneously in a perfectly choreographed dance of urban life that epitomizes Tokyo\'s ability to handle massive crowds with remarkable efficiency. Meiji Shrine - Sacred Forest Sanctuary Enter the peaceful Meiji Temple, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, whose spirits are honored in this tranquil forest sanctuary. The shrine represents the profound respect Japanese culture maintains for its imperial heritage and spiritual traditions. Imperial Elegance and Electric Culture Continue along the elegant Omotesando boulevard before exploring the most beautiful sections of the Imperial Palace and its meticulously maintained gardens. Stop at the iconic Nijubashi Bridge, then venture into Akihabara, the famous \"Electric Town\" overflowing with manga and anime culture that defines modern Japanese entertainment. Visit Kokugikan, the sacred home of sumo wrestling, Japan\'s ancient national sport. Sensoji Temple - Tokyo\'s Spiritual Heart Conclude your morning at Sensoji, Tokyo\'s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple, crowned by its magnificent 55-meter pagoda. This spiritual center has welcomed pilgrims and visitors for over 1,400 years, representing the enduring power of Buddhist tradition in modern Japan. Traditional Shopping Experience Enjoy free time exploring the historic Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa district, where traditional crafts, local delicacies, and authentic souvenirs line the pedestrian thoroughfare. Included Lunch and Afternoon Freedom Savor lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant before returning to your hotel with the afternoon free for independent exploration or relaxation. Note: During major events, accommodation may be provided near Narita Airport Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Overnight: Tokyo hotel

High-Speed Rail Adventure After breakfast, transfer to Tokyo Station for one of Japan\'s most iconic experiences - the legendary Shinkansen bullet train journey to Hiroshima. Cover 800 kilometers of diverse Japanese landscapes in approximately four hours, reaching speeds that demonstrate Japan\'s technological mastery while maintaining unparalleled comfort and punctuality. Hiroshima - A City Reborn Arrive in Hiroshima, a city forever changed by the tragic events of August 6, 1945, but which has risen from devastation to become a powerful symbol of peace, resilience, and human hope. Peace Memorial Complex Take a meaningful journey through the Peace Memorial Park, past the haunting Atomic Bomb Dome, and into the exceptional Peace Memorial Museum. These sites provide profound insights into one of history\'s most significant events while promoting global understanding, reconciliation, and the urgent need for nuclear disarmament. Sacred Miyajima Island Board a ferry to mystical Miyajima Island, poetically known as the place \"where gods and mortals coexist.\" The island\'s famous Itsukushima Shrine, with its iconic floating torii gate, creates one of Japan\'s three most celebrated scenic views. The partially submerged shrine honors the sea guardian deity and has inspired pilgrims, artists, and poets for over a millennium. Island Exploration and Included Lunch Wander through the shrine\'s enchanting grounds and the island\'s charming village center while enjoying your included lunch featuring local specialties. Evening Return Conclude your day with an included dinner before returning to your comfortable Hiroshima hotel for overnight rest. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Overnight: Hiroshima hotel

Ferry to Shikoku Island After breakfast, board a ferry for the scenic 2.5-hour journey to Shikoku Island, Japan\'s fourth-largest island. This relaxing voyage provides spectacular views of the numerous islands that comprise the Japanese archipelago, each with its own character and natural beauty. Matsuyama Castle by Funicular Upon arrival in Matsuyama, ascend by cable car to the magnificent Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan\'s twelve original wooden castles. The castle\'s elevated position offers panoramic views over the city and surrounding landscape while showcasing traditional Japanese defensive architecture. Ishiteji Temple - Pilgrimage Site Visit the renowned Ishiteji Temple, an important Buddhist temple and Shinto shrine that serves as a significant stop on Shikoku\'s famous 88-temple pilgrimage route. The temple complex demonstrates the harmonious coexistence of Buddhist and Shinto traditions in Japanese spirituality. Dogo Onsen - Historic Hot Springs Spend your late afternoon at Dogo Onsen, Japan\'s oldest hot spring resort and a 19th-century traditional bathhouse that inspired the famous animated film \"Spirited Away.\" This complimentary experience allows you to participate in one of Japan\'s most cherished cultural traditions - the therapeutic and social ritual of communal bathing. Included Lunch Enjoy your included lunch featuring regional Shikoku specialties. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Overnight: Matsuyama hotel

Kotohira Shrine Pilgrimage After breakfast, journey to Kotohira, one of Japan\'s most beloved pilgrimage destinations. This sacred Shinto shrine honors the deity of sailors and sea travelers. Demonstrate your commitment by climbing 785 stone steps to reach the shrine positioned on Mount Zosu, where the panoramic views reward your spiritual and physical effort. Ritsurin Garden - Landscape Masterpiece Continue to Takamatsu to visit Ritsurin Garden, universally acclaimed as one of Japan\'s most exquisite landscape gardens. This masterpiece of garden design represents centuries of horticultural artistry and aesthetic refinement, where every view has been carefully composed like a three-dimensional painting. Naruto Bridge Engineering Marvel Cross the spectacular Naruto Bridge, stopping to appreciate this engineering achievement and walk on the glass observation floor suspended 45 meters above the swirling waters below. The bridge connects islands through breathtaking coastal scenery, providing dramatic views of Japan\'s island geography. Scenic Journey Through Rural Japan Travel through beautiful farmland and across extensive coastal bridges that connect Japan\'s numerous islands, witnessing the country\'s ability to link isolated communities through remarkable engineering and natural beauty. Included Lunch Enjoy your included lunch while taking in the scenic surroundings. Evening Arrival in Kobe Arrive in sophisticated Kobe, known for its international atmosphere and world-famous culinary traditions. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Overnight: Kobe hotel

Kobe Earthquake Memorial Begin your day at the Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum, a moving tribute to the city\'s remarkable recovery from the devastating 1995 earthquake. The museum demonstrates Japanese resilience, community spirit, and advanced reconstruction techniques. On certain days, you may alternatively visit the Sake Museum or ascend Kobe Tower for panoramic city views. Journey to Sacred Mount Koya Travel from Kobe through Osaka to reach Mount Koya, one of Japan\'s holiest mountains and the spiritual headquarters of Shingon Buddhism. This sacred peak houses 120 temples and monasteries, creating a monastic community that has flourished for over 1,200 years and continues to draw pilgrims from around the world. Okuno Cemetery - Forest of Eternal Rest Explore the mystical Okuno Mausoleum, a vast forest cemetery containing more than 200,000 graves spanning centuries. This sacred space, shrouded in towering cedar trees, creates an atmosphere of profound contemplation and spiritual reflection. Kongobuji Temple and Monastery Experience Visit Kongobuji Temple, constructed in 1593 and serving as the head temple of Shingon Buddhism. Your evening brings an extraordinary cultural experience as you stay in an authentic Buddhist monastery, participating in traditional Ajikan Zen meditation alongside practicing monks. Vegetarian Buddhist Cuisine Experience the artistry of Buddhist vegetarian cuisine during your included dinner, where simple ingredients are transformed into dishes that nourish both body and spirit while adhering to Buddhist principles of compassion for all living beings. Monastery Accommodation Sleep in traditional tatami-matted rooms without private bathrooms, experiencing the simple, contemplative lifestyle that has defined monastic life for centuries. Public facilities are available, and this authentic accommodation provides a profound insight into Buddhist monastic traditions. Optional Morning Service Consider participating in the early morning religious service for a complete immersion in Buddhist spiritual practices. Meals: Breakfast & Vegetarian Dinner Overnight: Buddhist monastery, Mount Koya

Traditional Temple Breakfast Begin with an authentic Japanese breakfast served at the monastery, providing nourishment for your journey from the sacred mountain to Japan\'s ancient capital. Journey to Kyoto - The Eternal City Depart early for Kyoto, where you\'ll spend the entire day exploring Japan\'s former imperial capital. From 794 to 1868, Kyoto served as the seat of the Imperial Court, accumulating an unparalleled collection of temples, palaces, gardens, and cultural treasures. Remarkably, Kyoto was spared from World War II bombing, preserving over a millennium of architectural and artistic heritage. The city also gained international recognition when the famous Kyoto Protocol addressing climate change was signed here in 1997. Imperial Kyoto Tour Explore one of Kyoto\'s most significant neighborhoods during your guided tour, which includes visits to the Imperial Palace grounds, where Japanese emperors resided for over a thousand years. Kinkaku-ji - The Golden Pavilion Marvel at the magnificent Kinkaku-ji Temple, universally known as the \"Golden Pavilion.\" This three-story Zen temple, completely covered in gold leaf, creates perfect reflections in its surrounding pond and represents perhaps the most photographed building in all of Japan. Fushimi Inari Shrine Visit the mesmerizing Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that create tunnel-like pathways up the mountainside. This shrine dedicated to the rice and sake deity showcases the distinctive beauty of Shinto architecture and spiritual devotion. Gardens and Free Time Explore the shrine\'s wonderful gardens and enjoy free time for independent discovery before visiting the famous Gion district, Kyoto\'s most celebrated traditional quarter where geishas still move gracefully between exclusive tea houses and exclusive establishments. Evening in Gion Spend time in Gion, the lively traditional area renowned for preserving the refined arts of geisha culture. Your guide will provide insider tips and information for exploring other areas of Kyoto independently. Meals: Traditional Japanese Breakfast Overnight: Kyoto hotel

Journey Through Rural Japan After breakfast, travel through lovely rural landscapes toward the Japanese Alps region, witnessing the country\'s incredible natural beauty and traditional rural architecture. Tsumago - Living Museum Village Stop in Tsumago, one of Japan\'s most perfectly preserved mountain villages featuring traditional wooden cottages and historic post-town architecture. This remarkable settlement, where automobiles are banned during certain hours, provides an authentic glimpse into Edo-period rural life and represents one of the finest examples of traditional Japanese mountain communities. Free Time and Included Lunch Enjoy your included lunch and free time to explore this enchanting village, where traditional crafts, local specialties, and historic buildings create an atmosphere of stepping back in time. Matsumoto Castle - The Crow Fortress Continue to Matsumoto, a popular destination renowned for its magnificent 16th-century castle known as the \"Crow Fortress\" due to its distinctive black exterior walls. This original wooden castle represents one of Japan\'s most important historical treasures and finest examples of military architecture from the feudal period. Free Exploration Time Spend a free hour exploring this bustling tourist destination, where traditional architecture coexists with modern amenities and local specialties. Evening in Nagano Arrive in Nagano, gateway to the Japanese Alps and site of the 1998 Winter Olympics. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Overnight: Nagano hotel

Zenko-ji Temple - Buddhist Heritage Begin your day at Zenko-ji Temple, which houses Japan\'s first Buddhist statue and represents one of the country\'s most important religious sites. Participate in the traditional Gomakuyo ceremony, performed specifically for travelers to bring good fortune and spiritual protection for the journey ahead. Jigokudani Monkey Park - Alpine Wildlife Journey into the stunning Japanese Alps to visit the world-famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) naturally bathe in hot springs throughout the year. Enjoy your included lunch followed by peaceful walks through forests, along rivers, and beside the thermal springs where colonies of these intelligent primates have adapted to the harsh mountain environment. Mountain Journey to Kusatsu Ascend to 2,172 meters elevation through spectacular alpine scenery and partially active volcanic landscapes, experiencing some of Japan\'s most dramatic mountain terrain. Kusatsu Resort Town Arrive in charming Kusatsu, a renowned hot spring resort town centered around a bustling plaza where thermal waters create a naturally heated community gathering place. Yumomi Performance - Traditional Arts Experience the unique Yumomi performance, where skilled actresses and singers demonstrate the traditional technique of cooling hot spring waters using long wooden paddles, accompanied by folk songs and choreographed movements that have been passed down through generations. Outdoor Onsen Experience Stroll through the town\'s hot spring park, where outdoor onsen (natural hot springs) allow you to experience this quintessential Japanese cultural tradition in its most authentic setting. Ikaho Spa Town Travel to picturesque Ikaho, a charming spa town famous for its distinctive stone staircase streets and traditional ryokan accommodations. Ryokan Experience and Traditional Dinner Conclude your day with a stay at a traditional Japanese ryokan, where you can enjoy relaxing therapeutic baths using natural hot spring waters. Your included traditional dinner features authentic Japanese delicacies prepared according to regional recipes and seasonal ingredients. Note: Monkey activity varies seasonally based on highland fruit availability. From November through April, the Yumomi show and some Kusatsu visits may be modified due to weather conditions. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Traditional Dinner Overnight: Traditional Ryokan, Ikaho

Journey to Nikko After breakfast, travel toward Nikko, one of Japan\'s most spectacular temple and shrine complexes nestled in the mountains north of Tokyo. Nikko Toshogu Shrine Complex Visit the magnificent Nikko Toshogu Shrine, famous for its lavishly decorated buildings and the mysterious \"crying dragon\" room, where hand claps create unique acoustic phenomena that have puzzled visitors for centuries. Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum Explore the majestic and peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, set within an enchanting forest environment that provides a serene contrast to the ornate shrine buildings. Kanmangafuchi River Walk Take a contemplative walk along the Kanmangafuchi river, watched over by hundreds of Jizo statues that line the pathway. Each stone guardian possesses unique characteristics and expressions, creating an atmosphere of spiritual protection and peaceful reflection. Free Time in Nikko Enjoy some independent time exploring Nikko\'s charming town center before departing for Tokyo. Return to Tokyo Arrive in Tokyo at approximately 18:30 in the evening, marking the conclusion of your extraordinary journey through Japan\'s most sacred capitals, imperial cities, and cultural treasures. End of Services Your comprehensive tour of Japan\'s capitals concludes, leaving you with profound memories of ancient temples, imperial palaces, sacred mountains, traditional arts, and the warm hospitality that defines Japanese culture. Meals: Breakfast