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Discover
Japanese

20 days / 18 nights
Tokyo - Sendai - Osaka - Kyoto - Hiroshima

Discover
Japanese

Discover Japan: between age-old traditions, sacred temples and ultra-modern districts, experience a total immersion in the heart of Japanese culture. It's an authentic adventure that's sure to fill you with wonder.

Next departure:

From 28 March to 16 April2025

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The Land of the Rising Sun invites you to admire a natural spectacle of fascinating beauty: the cherry blossom, or sakura, which transforms the country into a tableau vivant of enchanting colours, a poetic discovery in the heart of a nature in full renaissance. A blend of age-old traditions and modernity, this trip promises a unique immersion in Japanese culture, punctuated by landscapes encircled by ancestral temples and the hustle and bustle of the major metropolises.

Your itinerary in brief

J1Paris CDG - TokyoVisits
J2 - J6TokyoTokyo and the surrounding area
D6 - D8SendaiSendai - Matsushima
D8 - D10TokyoKamakura - Enoshima - Mount Fuji
D10 - D14KyotoKyoto - Otsu - Osaka
D15 - D17KyotoNara - Himeji - Kobe
D17 - D18KanazawaKanazawa and surrounding area
D19 - D20KyotoHiroshima - Miyajima
J20Kyoto - Kansai - Paris CDG
We've made this trip as comfortable as possible for you, and to avoid having to change hotels every day, we're offering you a star route around the main cities. It's a chance to immerse yourself in local life, with first-class, state-of-the-art trains and luxury private buses.

Highlights of the trip

  • Ikebana (floral art workshop) and Origami classes
  • Sake and Shochu tasting
  • Tea ceremony with a Master
  • Meeting with an artist who is an expert in the technique of gold leaf and a Master Lacquerer
  • Immerse yourself in the hell of Pachinko, the game that drives the Japanese mad
  • Discover the world of Manga in Tokyo
  • Discover Japanese cuisine and its thousand secrets
  • Kabuki show in the underground city
  • Meeting with Hiroshima residents
  • Introduction to Shinto and Zen Buddhism
  • Attend a sumo match or demonstration

These highlights will be included during your trip according to availability and feasibility.

Discover Japanese

Discover Japan starting with the dynamic capital Tokyo, where the bustle of districts such as Shibuya and Akihabara mingle with historic treasures such as the Senso-ji temple. Let yourself be enchanted by the serenity of Sendai and its landscapes surrounded by nature. Let yourself be captivated by Osaka, a metropolis renowned for its exceptional cuisine and relaxed atmosphere. Kyoto will amaze you with its emblematic temples such as Kinkaku-ji and its Zen gardens. Finally, discover Hiroshima, a symbol of resilience and peace. Each stage of this journey invites you to explore and experience the essence and authenticity of Japan.

We've made this trip as comfortable as possible for you, and to avoid having to change hotels every day, we're offering you a star route around the main cities. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in local life, with first-class, state-of-the-art trains and luxury private buses.

Day 1 - Day 6

Tokyo

Discover Tokyo, Japan's vibrant capital, starting with a stroll through Ueno Park, where you can admire the beauty of the cherry blossom trees. Stroll along Ameyoko shopping street, a former black market dating back to the post-World War II era, where you can still make great purchases today. Then plunge into the world of Akihabara, the emblematic district of electronics, manga and anime culture. Continue on to Asakusa to discover the unique fusion of traditional and modern Japan, visiting the historic Senso-ji temple and the futuristic Tokyo Skytree. Stroll around the Chidorigafuchi moat, particularly beautiful in spring with its cherry blossom trees. Stroll through the open-air Tsukiji market, a veritable fair of Japanese gastronomic products, before heading for the chic Ginza district, known for its luxury boutiques comparable to the Champs-Élysées in Paris. You can also enjoy contemporary art at the Tomio Koyama gallery and discover the picturesque atmosphere of the narrow streets of Omoide Yokocho, where you can enjoy a traditional Kabuki dinner in a hidden restaurant. Finally, round off your stay with an excursion to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire its architectural masterpieces.

Day 6 - Day 8

Sendai - Matsushima

Depart Sendai by train for an escapade to Matsushima Bay, reputed to be one of the three most enchanting landscapes in Japan. On arrival, you will visit the Zuiganji Zen temple, a masterpiece of serenity and spirituality, before enjoying a cruise on the bay, considered to be one of the 3 most beautiful sites in Japan, where the 260 small pine-covered islands offer a unique panorama. On to Sendai, the "City of Trees", renowned for its rich history and lush green landscapes. The city is home to historic sites such as Sendai Castle and the Zuihoden Mausoleum. Visit the Rinnoji temple, with its garden, stroll through the Ichibancho shopping centre for a glimpse of local dynamism, and discover the Osaki Hachimangu shrine. The next day, after lunch in Sendai, return to Tokyo for a surprise activity. Enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace.

Day 8 - Day 10

Kamakura - Enoshima - Mount Fuji

Kamakura, an hour south of Tokyo, is a former shogun capital known for its Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Its most recognisable landmark is the Great Buddha of the Kotoku-in temple, a bronze statue some 13 metres high. Visit must-see sites such as Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, Kamakura's most important Shinto shrine. Explore the island of Enoshima, where nature, the ocean and urban landscapes steeped in history and traditional culture meet. Excursion to the enchanting landscapes of the Mount Fuji region. On arrival in the town of Fujiyoshida, stop off at the Chureito pagoda, an iconic five-storey structure perched on the side of a mountain. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the city, with Mount Fuji as a backdrop, particularly striking during the cherry blossom season. Continue your exploration along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, where panoramic views of Mount Fuji are reflected in the tranquil waters, enhanced by fields of lavender and cherry blossom.

 

Day 10 - Day 14

Kyoto - Otsu - Osaka

Discover Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital, with these must-see sites, starting with the splendid Kinkaku-ji, a Golden Pavilion resplendent in gold leaf in a romantic and peaceful setting. Next, immerse yourself in the serenity of the Arashiyama district, with its majestic Sagano bamboo forest and Tenryû-ji Zen temple, renowned for its garden symbolising the Chinese character for 'heart'. Admire Ryoan-ji temple, famous for its minimalist Zen stone garden, before admiring the breathtaking view over Kyoto from Kiyomizu temple, perched on a hill. Visit the Fushimi Inari shrine, renowned for its countless orange torii, and enjoy a stroll through the historic lanes of Gion. You will then travel to the island of Honshu. This region is home to the majestic Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. Along the way, you'll have the chance to discover the lake's magnificent scenery, with its beaches, floating Torii gates and charming towns such as Otsu, Hikone, Sakamoto and Nagahama. On the north-western shores of the lake, you will visit Nagahama Castle, surrounded by a park adorned with splendid cherry trees. You will then continue on to Daigoji, a vast temple complex listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discovery of Osaka, a large and dynamic port city and a major commercial crossroads on the island of Honshu. You'll start your visit at Osaka's emblematic castle, the Nishinomaru Garden. Marvel at the Abenoharukas Tower, Japan's tallest building, rising 300 metres above the city. Stroll through the Shinsaibashi district, the commercial heart of the city, where you will discover Shinsaibashi-suji, a covered shopping street offering a wide range of upmarket and tax-free shops.

 

Day 15 - Day 17

Nara - Himeji - Kobe

Nara is a city rich in history and culture. Formerly the capital of Japan in the 8th century, it is famous for its ancient temples.

You will visit Todai-ji, a Buddhist complex, as well as Nara Park, famous for its free-roaming deer, which you can observe in their natural habitat. You can also admire the Horyu-ji temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples and a World Heritage Site, home to the oldest surviving wooden structures.

Head for Hyogo prefecture, around 35km away, to discover the region's emblematic sites. Discover Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nicknamed the "White Heron Castle" because of its elegant appearance, reminiscent of a bird spreading its wings. Next, we head for Kobe, a picturesque city on Osaka Bay, famous for its marbled beef and beautiful scenery between the sea and the Rokko Mountains.

Day 17 - Day 18

Kanazawa

Kanazawa, the city of the Samurai and a true journey back to Feudal Japan! Often referred to as "Little Kyoto", Kanazawa charms visitors with its exquisite gardens, historic districts and traditional crafts. You'll start with a visit to the Kenrokuen garden, now one of the most prestigious in Japan. You will also discover Kanazawa Castle, its armoury and its vast park. You'll have the chance to wander through the cobbled streets of the old districts of Nagamachi and Higashi Chaya, where you can visit traditional samurai and tea houses that have been well preserved since the days of the geisha. Immerse yourself in a gold-leaf workshop in the Hakuichi district, where an introduction to this technique will enrich your stay. Depart for the picturesque village of Shirakawa-go, where you can explore the steeply-pitched thatched houses, visit small museums and hike to the observatory at Ogi-Machi Castle, offering an impressive panoramic view. Finally, return to Kanazawa for a visit to the local market followed by a traditional sake tasting.

Day 19 - Day 20

Hiroshima - Miyajima

Hiroshima, sadly known for having been devastated by the nuclear bomb at the end of the Second World War, presents itself today with resilience and hope. You will visit the Bomb Dome, the Peace Memorial Park and the museum dedicated to this event, before strolling through the city's streets and parks. You will then travel to the island of Miyajima, located in Seto Bay, off the coast of Hiroshima. Considered one of the three most famous sights in Japan, this island is home to the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine, dedicated to the deities who protect against maritime disasters and wars, is said to have been built in 593 A.D. You can admire the giant Torii, in a striking bright red, standing majestically in the middle of the sea.

Carefully selected by the Ciels du Monde team, discover the accommodation for your trip.

Tokyo

The Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa 5*

Sendai

Onyado Nono Sendai Natural Hot Spring 4*

Kyoto

Good Nature Hotel Kyoto 5* (5*)

Kanazawa

Traditional Ryokan

Next departures

2025
Discover Japanese
From 28 March to 16 April2025
2026
Discover Japanese
From 27 March to 15 April2026
2027
Discover Japanese
From 26 March to 14 April2027

Prices and conditions - Edition

2025

Discover Japanese
From €19,500
(based on double room)

General terms and conditions of sale

A companion
Skies of the World

Full board and
drinks during meals

A local French-speaking guide
and a driver

International flights
in economy class

Accommodation in 5-star hotels
stars or similar

THE PRICE INCLUDES :

  • International flights in economy class *.
  • Economy* domestic flights

* Flights are subject to availability at the time of booking and may be subject to change.

  • The services of an English-speaking guide and driver at each stopover and for the entire duration of the trip
  • The services of a ''Ciels du Monde'' guide for the entire duration of the trip
  • Accommodation in double rooms in the hotels listed in the programme
  • Full board throughout the trip (some lunches may be served on board depending on flight times)
  • Table drinks included (water, wine, beer, coffee, juice, soft drinks)
  • Airport taxes
  • Visas
  • Repatriation insurance
  • Tips

THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE :

  • Business class supplement on intercontinental flights: consult us
    The price will be quoted on the day you register for the trip and must be booked at the time.
  • Personal expenses (telephone, laundry, non-meal drinks, mini bar, passport fees)
  • Tips
  • Single room supplement: please consult us
  • All services not clearly mentioned
  • Vaccines, tests and medicines of all kinds
  • Pre-post delivery: please consult us
  • Optional comprehensive and additional accident/luggage/cancellation insurance: please consult us.

FORMALITIES :

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months after date of return

REGISTRATION CONDITIONS :

On registration
30% of the fare
90 days before departure
45% of the fare
45 days before departure
25% of the fare

CANCELLATION CHARGES :

180 days or more before departure
10% of the cost of the trip
179 to 120 days before departure
30% of the cost of the trip
119 to 90 days before departure
40% of the cost of the trip
89 to 60 days before departure
50% of the cost of the trip
59 to 30 days before departure
75% of the cost of the trip
Less than 30 days before departure
100% of the cost of the trip

Corporate Social Responsibility

We actively support local initiatives that have been carefully selected for their positive impact on the environment. We work with our local partners to introduce you to these destinations through tours designed to preserve nature and respect the local population. We develop partnerships with international NGOs to deliver medical and educational supplies to selected destinations.

Would you like to receive one or more of our programmes in particular?

Fill in this form and we will send you the requested documents by e-mail or by post, depending on your choice.