Superior Grade ( 4 *) from £ 5,350.00pp 14 nights
This trip showcases the striking contrasts to be found throughout Japan , taking you from vibrant modern cities to charming market towns , up into mountainous rural countryside and through the varied coastal regions .
Beginning in the modern megalopolis of Tokyo and travelling south on the bullet train to the Fuji-Hakone National Park , you will be amazed by the surprises and contradictions to be found in such a small area of this diverse country . As far as we ' re concerned , there are few things more impressive than the sight of Mount Fuji emerging from the clouds , or more relaxing than soaking in a soothing hot spring bath .
After visiting Hakone you will spend the next three days exploring the historic temples , shrines and gardens in the cultural heart of Japan : Kyoto . Continuing west from here you ' ll then travel west to Miyajima , an island just across the water from Hiroshima and one of the most scenic places in all Japan .
Although Miyajima is always thronged with tourists during the day , most visitors head home by late afternoon leaving a wonderful afterdark atmosphere for the lucky few who remain . Make sure you take this chance to stroll down to the shrine and the illuminated torii gate in the early evening .
Destinations
• 3 nights Tokyo
• 2 nights Hakone National Park ( for Mt Fuji )
• 3 nights Kyoto
• 2 nights Miyajima / Hiroshima
• 1 night Osaka
• 2 nights Takayama
• 1 night Tokyo
Trip Highlights
• Bathe in Hakone ' s natural hot springs
• Stay in a ryokan inn on Miyajima Island complete with traditional Kaiseki cuisine
• Explore Kyoto ' s shrines and temples
• Cycle through traditional Hida villages
• Discover Tokyo ' s neon lights on a food tour of the Shinjuku District
• Go geisha-spotting in Gion on a dusk walking tour
• Private guided tours of Tokyo and Kyoto
To book , call Delmar World on 0151 363 6115 .
Your next destination will take you deep into the Japanese Alps , where you ' ll be exploring the picturesque historical town of Takayama . Here the old streets have been carefully preserved to show off the original architecture of this old artisanal centre to its best advantage , and the spectacular festivals held here every spring and autumn are justly famous throughout Japan .
Over the course of your trip you will also have endless opportunities to sample the local Japanese cuisine , explore a fantastic array of shopping opportunities and perhaps even test your vocal cords at a karaoke venue ! merseylife . com 69