Fly to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start soaking up the local culture.
Spend the morning in Nara, the small, history-filled city that was Japan's first capital. Stroll through Nara Park to Todai-ji Temple and admire the traditional Isui-en Garden. Return to Osaka and visit the impressive Osaka Castle.
Depart Osaka for Hiroshima, stopping en route to explore the magnificent 17th Century Himeji Castle and the neighbouring Koko-en, a traditional-style garden.
Reflect on the city's tragic past at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum paying homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb. Next, take the ferry to the holy island of Miyajima to see it's 'floating' torii gate, Itsukushima Shrine, and enjoy some free time.
Start the day with a journey by bullet train to Kyoto. Capital for 1,000 years, this enchanting city is the epitome of traditional Japan. Visit Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's most famous zen garden and Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as 'Golden Pavilion'.
Enjoy one of Kyoto's most delightful spots, Kiyomizu, a 17th Century Buddhist temple, before experiencing the age-old rituals of a traditional tea ceremony with a tea master. After lunch, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its 10,000 vermilion torii gates.
Depart Kyoto and travel around 4 hours by coach to Kanazawa. After lunch in a local restaurant, wander through the beautiful Kenroku-en Garden before visiting a historic samurai house.
Drive to Gokayama, where you can enjoy a hands-on washi paper making workshop before lunch. Continue to Shirakawa-go, famous for its steep thatched roof houses. Continue to your hotel in Takayama, a beautiful, laidback town nestled in the western foothills of the Japanese Alps.
Take a morning walking tour of Takayama's old town, historically a hub for craftsmen, farmers and merchants from the surrounding mountains. Head to the Miyagawa Morning Market, where you can sample some of the delicious local fruits and vegetables (at your own expense). Later, take a leisurely stroll around the traditional streets and visit Takayama Jinya. If local opening hours permit, you will also visit the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall.
Travel to Matsumoto and explore the formidable 16th-century Matsumoto
Castle, famous for its dramatic, dark wood exterior. Please note that the castle has very steep wooden steps inside; if you prefer, you can wait in the grounds and enjoy the view instead. Later, visit a miso house and learn about this staple Japanese seasoning. Continue to Nagano.
Enjoy some time at leisure to explore the charming town of Obuse, known for its chestnut and apple themed snacks. Later, head to Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you'll take a gentle hike through the forested valley in search of the semi-wild Japanese snow monkeys, who love to bathe and play in the forest pools. Return to Nagano.
The sacred peak of Mount Fuji has inspired artists, pts and pilgrims for centuries. Drive from Nagano to reach the Fuji region, where, weather permitting, you can enjoy dramatic views of Fuji and drive up to its 5th Station, the highest point on the mountain accessible by road. If the Station is closed due to inclement weather, you will instead visit the Fujisan World Heritage Centre. Spend the night in the wider Fuji area.
Begin the day with a cruise on the peaceful waters of Lake Ashi. Next, soar high on the Hakone Ropeway over the hilltops to the volcanic Owakudani Valley and discover the dramatic natural hot springs of Mount Hakone. Later, proceed to Tokyo.
A dazzling, high-tech metropolis, Japan's capital has wonderfully traditional roots. Start your explorations at the Imperial Palace East Garden (opening hours permitting), then stop by the famous Shibuya Crossing before some free time to enjoy Tokyo at leisure. Please note, on select May and September departures, there is an extra special addition to day 15: a sumo tournament. Many of Japan's most ancient traditions are preserved in the sport, and the rituals involved in its performance are as fascinating to watch as the wrestling itself.
Stroll the vibrant Asakusa district and soak up the ambience of Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, and the adjacent Nakamise Shopping Street. Ascend to the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. The afternoon is free until this evening's farewell dinner cruise aboard a traditional yakata boat.
Fly to New Zealand, arriving home the same or following day.
