An Example Itinerary

Cherry Blossom Away From The Crowds

Japan

11 Day Itinerary

Guide Price

£9,800pp

$11,800pp

Experience Japan in all its glory during spring, as cherry blossom trees paint the landscape, discovering hot sulphur springs and traditional ryokans along your journey.

Highlights

See the beauty of the pink cherry blossom trees in full bloom, away from the crowds on the island of Hokkaido
Stay in traditional countryside ryokans for a taste of authentic Japanese hospitality
Explore two of Japan’s best fish markets to choose your own seafood for lunch
Discover the colours of Harajuku on a tour of the area with a pop culture expert
Dip your toes in the hot sulphur springs of Hokkaido to experience the healing benefits of the water

Day 1 - 6: Tokyo, Japan

Visit the hotel’s Evian spa to experience the highest-quality French products combined with soothing Asian techniques

Explore Tokyo’s trendiest neighbourhood with a pop culture guide to see emerging fashion

Experience both the ultramodern and the historic traditional on an exploration of Japan’s vibrant capital city.

Arrive at Palace Hotel in the heart of the city’s dining and shopping district. After admiring the view of the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace from your hotel room, wander down to explore the quintessentially Japanese landscaping in person. Explore Asakusa, the oldest part of Tokyo, by wandering around the traditional craft shops and stopping to try authentic street food, such as Ningyo-yaki. Follow a pop culture expert through the buzzing streets of Harajuku to see colourful street art and quirky young fashion. Whet your appetite in the morning with a special access tour of Toyosu market, the world’s largest fish market, before dining on Michelin-starred sushi later that evening.

Day 6 - 8: Otaru, Hokkaido

Pick out a fresh crab for your lunch at one of the best seafood markets in Hokkaido

See pathways lined with blooming cherry blossom trees on the way to the Hokkaido Shrine

See the magic of the sakura trees in full bloom, away from the crowds, on a trip to the lesser-visited Hokkaido Island.

Catch a domestic flight to Sapporo to spend two nights at Ginrinsou, where you will be greeted by sweeping views over Otaru Bay and the old port. Taste some of Japan’s best fish at Curb Market in Sapporo: wander through the aisles to pick a horsehair crab for lunch, served freshly boiled and overflowing with juicy roe. Those wanting to do it themselves can take a traditional cooking class using only the freshest of Hokkaido’s seafood. Amble down the path towards Hokkaido Shrine to admire the sea of pink cherry blossom that lines the walkway to the protector of Hokkaido’s people and their happiness.

Day 8 - 11: Kutchan, Hokkaido

Take a dip in the healing waters of Noboribetsu’s hot springs and sulphur pools

Discover the natural beauty of Hokkaido by exploring the volcanic caldera lake

End your trip in the tranquility of Hokkaido’s countryside, dipping your toes in hot springs and exploring lakeside forests.

Move further south to stay at Zaborin, and enjoy traditional Japanese countryside hospitality in this peaceful ryokan. Experience the healing benefits of Hokkaido’s natural hot springs on a hike through Noboribetsu, making your way to Hell Valley to dip your toes in the warm water of the foot bath. Take a day trip to visit the caldera of Lake Toya, and stroll along the water’s edge. Those looking to end their trip in the tranquility of Hokkaido’s nature can take a delicious picnic on a scenic hike to Shinsen Marsh, to be enjoyed amongst the alpine trees surrounding the marsh.

What is typically included

10 nights Bed & Breakfast accommodation
Private guiding throughout
Traditional Cooking Class
International Economy class flights
All domestic flights and transfers