Essential Japan Explorer

Thirteen days moving through Japan's essential stops, from Tokyo's neon energy to Kyoto's temples and Osaka's food scene. You get a proper mix of city buzz, history and a soak in the countryside along the way.

The route runs Tokyo to Shimoda for coastal calm and onsen, then bullet train to Kyoto and Hiroshima before finishing in Osaka. It's a lot of ground, but the pace stays easy and much of the travel is done for you.

Expect hands-on moments like sushi-making and tea ceremonies alongside the bigger sights — Mt Fuji, the Peace Memorial, Miyajima's shrine gates rising from the sea.

What you'll do

• Sushi-making class and neon nightlife in Tokyo
• Bay cruise and onsen soak in coastal Shimoda
• Bullet train to Kyoto for tea ceremonies and temples
• Cycle past the Golden Pavilion and hear Geisha tales in Gion
• Visit the Peace Memorial in Hiroshima and ferry to Miyajima Island
• Finish among Osaka's food stalls and nightlife