Your Tokyo immersion begins with visits to Zojoji Temple, the solemn Buddhist sanctuary beside Tokyo Tower, followed by the energy of Shibuya Crossing, famously the busiest intersection in the world. Continue to Meiji Shrine, a spiritual retreat set within a forest, before visiting the Imperial Palace grounds. Afternoon exploration takes you to Akihabara, Tokyo’s tech and anime hub, and then to Asakusa, home to the iconic Sensoji Temple and the bustling Nakamise Street, where traditional snacks and souvenirs abound. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Overnight Stay: Tokyo

Board the Shinkansen for a seamless ride to Hiroshima. On arrival, pay homage at Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, and the Peace Memorial Museum, powerful symbols of resilience. In the evening, take a ferry to Miyajima Island to witness the ethereal floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, especially magical at sunset. Meals: Breakfast & Dinner and Overnight Stay: Hiroshima

Travel by ferry to Shikoku Island. Here, Matsuyama Castle awaits with panoramic views, while Ishiteji Temple offers spiritual insight. Conclude with a soak at Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring resort, famed for its therapeutic waters. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Overnight Stay: Matsuyama

Start with Kotohira Shrine, where climbing sacred steps rewards you with scenic views. Continue to Ritsurin Garden, an Edo-period masterpiece. Journey across the Naruto Bridge, famed for whirlpools below, before reaching Kobe, a cosmopolitan port city known for resilience and fine cuisine. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Overnight Stay: Kobe

A morning visit to the Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum reveals stories of survival and rebuilding. Travel onward to Mount Koya, a sacred Buddhist site. Explore Kongobuji Temple and the atmospheric Okunoin Cemetery, where lantern-lit paths lead to mausoleums of historical figures. Tonight, stay in a monastery, dine on vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, and experience Zen meditation guided by monks. Meals: Breakfast & Vegetarian Dinner and Overnight Stay: Monastery on Mount Koya

Depart for Kyoto, Japan’s imperial capital for centuries. Visit the serene Imperial Palace, admire the golden brilliance of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and walk through the seemingly endless red gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Evening brings a stroll through Gion, where you may glimpse geisha on lantern-lit streets. Meals: Breakfast and Overnight Stay: Kyoto

Travel through the Kiso Valley to Tsumago, a beautifully preserved Edo-period village. Continue to Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s oldest original castles, before arriving in Nagano, a city surrounded by mountains and tradition. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Overnight Stay: Nagano

Morning begins at Zenko-ji Temple, followed by a Gomakuyo fire ritual. Later, witness the playful snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park. Evening relaxation awaits at Ikaho Spa Town, where you’ll stay in a traditional ryokan, complete with tatami rooms and hot spring baths. Meals: Breakfast & Dinner and Overnight Stay: Ryokan in Ikaho

Journey to Nikko, famed for Toshogu Shrine, a masterpiece of decorative architecture. Visit Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum and walk the serene Kanman-ga-Fuchi Abyss trail. Evening arrival in Sendai, a city that blends history and modernity. Meals: Breakfast and Overnight Stay: Sendai

Cruise through Matsushima Bay, dotted with pine-clad islets, celebrated as one of Japan’s most scenic views. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony and visit the UNESCO temples of Hiraizumi before reaching Morioka. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Overnight Stay: Morioka

Explore Hirosaki Castle, surrounded by moats and gardens, followed by a visit to the Nebuta Museum in Aomori, showcasing vibrant festival floats. Cross to Hakodate by ferry, and ascend Mount Hakodate for breathtaking night views. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Overnight Stay: Hakodate

Start with Hakodate Morning Market, brimming with fresh seafood, followed by Goryokaku Tower, a star-shaped fort with sweeping views. Visit Onuma National Park before stopping at Noboribetsu Hell Valley, where steaming volcanic landscapes create an otherworldly setting. I arrived in Sapporo, Hokkaido’s vibrant capital. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Overnight Stay: Sapporo

Explore Sapporo’s Clock Tower, Odori Park, Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, and the serene Hill of Buddha. Afternoon excursion to Otaru, a canal town known for glassware shops, artisan boutiques, and charming architecture. Evening return to Sapporo. Meals: Breakfast & Lunch and Overnight Stay: Sapporo

Enjoy leisure time for shopping or relaxing before your airport transfer. Carry home not only souvenirs but also memories of a journey that has taken you through Japan’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and spiritual heritage. Meals: Breakfast