Essential China and Japan

Welcome to China!

After the border and customs formalities, an assistant will be waiting for you, to give you basic initial information and accompany on the transfer to take you from the airport to the hotel. Check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, before meeting the guide and  fellow passengers in the hotel reception area, in the evening around 0630 PM. Then the guide will take you to familiarise with the city. Transfer to Wangfujing street, a pedestrian and commercial street full of life with many shops and restaurants. 

Overnight in Beijing

07.30hrs. - Beijing, departure. Today’s programme includes an excursion to the Great Wall. 0930 hrs.- GREAT WALL OF CHINA (section Mutianyu). Arrival to this spectacular architectural work. Its history covers more than 2000 years. The day will include a cable car ride up and down to one of the most scenic areas. Free time to have lunch and enjoy the comercial area and the Exhibition Center on the Wall.

Note: Sometimes there is a large number of tourists in the Great Wall and it may be advisable to go walking avoiding the delays that may exist in the climb by funicular

Returning to Beijing, we will stop in the 798 th district, with its contemporary art located in an old military factory. We will also visit the TEMPLE OF HEAVEN, one of the country’s largest sacred complexes and a World Heritage Site. Before returning to the hotel, and as a way to rest from this intense day, we will take a Tai Chi class and enjoy a foot massage. We will bid farewell to Beijing with a lacquered duck dinner included. Return to the hotel at 2100 hrs.

Overnight in Beijing

An exciting day awaits you as you explore the main highlights of the Chinese capital. With a local guide, you will embark on a full-day tour, discovering some of Beijing’s most iconic sites. You’ll start by walking through the immense Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world, where you can admire the Great National Theater and the Beijing Opera House. Then, you’ll visit the magnificent Chinese Imperial Palace, better known as "The Forbidden City," the most majestic architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. Next, you’ll head to Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of Beijing’s best-preserved imperial gardens. Climbing to the top of the hill, you’ll take in stunning panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. Lunch is included in the tour. In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a tricycle ride through Beijing’s traditional Hutong neighborhoods, where you can experience the local lifestyle, visit unique shops, and even step inside a traditional Siheyuan house with its charming courtyard. To end the day, you’ll explore the breathtaking Summer Palace, the former Imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its stunning gardens and serene lakes. The tour concludes around 1830 hrs. You can return to the hotel by bus or stay in the city center to explore further. If you choose to stay, be sure to carry your hotel’s address in Chinese to show the taxi driver for an easy return.

*Note: For reasons of heritage protection and increased visitor safety, the governing body of the Imperial Palace or Forbidden City has reduced the daily capacity of visitors for an indeterminate period of time. For this reason, we cannot guarantee that such a visit will take place. If it cannot be carried out, it would be replaced by a visit to the Confucius Temple and also the Lama Temple, both also emblematic of Chinese history and culture.

Overnight in Beijing

After breakfast, depart from your hotel and transfer to the train station. You'll board a modern high-speed train, and in less than three hours, you'll arrive in Nanjing (expected train departure from Beijing at 09:00 hrs). From there, you'll continue your journey by coach. Arrive in Nanjing, a vibrant city of eight million people, often considered one of the most pleasant cities in China. You'll be amazed by the energy, commercial life, and modern atmosphere of this metropolis. Your tour will take you to Purple Mountain, where you'll visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the picturesque Linggu Temple. After the tour, you will be dropped at your hotel. You may want to take an evening stroll through the city, enjoying its modern ambiance, bustling shopping areas, and diverse restaurants. Afterward, you'll have free time to explore at your leisure.

Overnight in Nanjing

After breakfast, depart from Nanjing as you continue your journey south through China. Arrive in Suzhou, a city renowned for its breathtaking gardens, which are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunch is included. Suzhou was once the world’s leading silk producer and has long been associated with beauty and elegance. During your visit, you’ll explore the Garden of the Humble Administrator, one of China’s most famous classical gardens. Afterward, enjoy some free time to stroll along the charming Pingjiang Road, known for its traditional atmosphere and picturesque canals. At around 15:15 hrs, depart from Suzhou and soon enter the vast metropolis of nearly 25 million people. Continue your journey, and head to Tongli, a charming water town with traditional houses lining its serene canals. Here, you’ll take a delightful boat ride, experiencing the tranquil beauty of this historic town. At around 18:00 hrs, depart from Tongli, and proceed towards Shanghai, one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

Overnight in Shanghai

In the morning, after breakfast, your tour will take you through the  impressive city of Beijing. You'll start by exploring Pudong, Shanghai’s modern financial district, located across the Huangpu River. Here, you’ll see the city’s iconic skyscrapers, including the Pearl Tower, and walk along the elevated pathways for spectacular views of the skyline. Next, you'll take a local ferry across the Huangpu River, offering a unique perspective of the city from the water and a glimpse into daily life along the bustling riverbanks. Upon arrival, you’ll explore The Bund, famous for its stunning 19th-century European-style buildings that reflect Shanghai’s colonial past. From there, you'll head to the Old City and visit the Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, you'll also enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, experiencing the cultural significance of tea in Chinese heritage. The tour continues with a drive through Xintiandi, one of Shanghai’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its vibrant mix of modern boutiques and historical architecture. Lunch is included. After lunch, you'll visit Tianzifang, a former residential area now famous for its narrow, maze-like alleyways filled with artisan shops, cozy cafés, and art galleries. To wrap up the day, you’ll take a final stroll along The Bund, soaking in its historic charm and the blend of old and new architecture. The tour concludes around 1830 hrs. You can return to the hotel by bus or stay in the city center to explore further. If you decide to stay, be sure to carry your hotel’s address in Chinese to show a taxi driver for an easy return.

Overnight in Shanghai

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Tokyo.

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival, a shuttle bus will take you to your hotel.

18:30 hrs – Meet your guide. In the evening, you’ll begin your first exploration of this fascinating city by taking a trip on the Tokyo metro (tickets included). This modern and highly efficient transport system will give you a glimpse into the dynamic rhythm of daily life in Tokyo. Your destination is Shinjuku, one of the city’s most vibrant nightlife districts. Here, you’ll experience the bustling energy of the area, surrounded by neon lights, lively streets, and endless entertainment options.

Dinner is included, and after enjoying the evening, you’ll return to the hotel by metro with your guide.

NOTE: This visit may take place on the day of arrival or after the panoramic city tour next day, depending on the passenger flight arrival times.

Overnight in Tokyo

In the morning, you’ll embark on a 5-hour guided tour of this fascinating city, where the hustle and bustle of ultra-modern districts coexist with peaceful, serene areas. Your first stop is the Zojoji Temple, where you’ll have the opportunity to take a beautiful photograph of the iconic Tokyo Tower. As you explore the temple grounds, take note of the hundreds of Jizo statues—traditional deities believed to protect travelers, the weak (such as children), and those in dangerous places. These statues are often adorned with hats, robes, and colorful windmills. Next, you’ll head to Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world, a true spectacle of Tokyo's frenetic pace. Following that, you’ll visit the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, where you can reflect on the serenity of the peaceful grounds. Your journey continues along Omotesando, Tokyo’s elegant tree-lined avenue, and you’ll catch glimpses of the beautiful grounds of the Imperial Palace. A stop will be made at Nijubashi Bridge, an iconic spot for photographs. You’ll then pass through Akihabara, Tokyo’s “Electric Town,” known for its vibrant culture of Manga and Anime, before heading to Kokugikan, the Sumo stadium, home to Japan’s national sport. A visit to the Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most important Buddhist temple, follows, with its impressive 55-meter high pagoda standing as a testament to the city’s rich history. Afterward, you’ll have some free time to explore Nakamise Street in Asakusa, a bustling traditional shopping street. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, and after the meal, you’ll return to your hotel. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your leisure.

NOTE: If there are 5 or fewer passengers, the city tour will be conducted using the "Hop On-Hop Off" tourist bus, which passes by the major landmarks of Tokyo. You can hop off at any stop, visit the site, and then hop on the next bus when you're ready to continue the tour.

Overnight in Tokyo

At 08:00 hrs, after breakfast, you’ll set out for the beautiful Mount Fuji region, passing through scenic countryside. By 10:00 hrs, you’ll arrive in Kawaguchiko, a charming area known for its small houses, vibrant flowers, and stunning mountain views. Your first stop will be Arakurayama Sengen Park, where you can admire beautiful pagodas and enjoy the iconic views of Mount Fuji. Then, you’ll visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a serene spot surrounded by tall trees, marking the start of the traditional pilgrimage to the mountain. Here, you’ll take a moment to express your gratitude for the chance to visit such a magical place. At 12:30 hrs, you’ll embark on a 30-minute boat trip on Kawaguchiko Lake, soaking in the serene landscape. After lunch, you’ll begin your ascent to the fifth station of Mount Fuji, reaching 2,305 meters and passing through stunning forests with spectacular views. Note: In winter, the route to the summit may be closed due to snow or adverse weather, and you’ll ascend to the highest authorized point. By 16:15 hrs, you’ll return to Kawaguchiko, arriving at 17:15 hrs, with free time to stroll by the lake. The day ends with a stay at a traditional Ryokan, where you can relax in an unforgettable Onsen experience. Dinner is included, and note that some rooms at the Ryokan are in the traditional Japanese style with tatamis, while others are in Western-style rooms.

Overnight in Kawaguchiko

At 08:30 hrs, after breakfast, you’ll depart from Kawaguchiko and continue along the picturesque road, passing by the beautiful Kawaguchi and Saiko lakes. Arrive at Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a traditional open-air mountain village and museum that was destroyed by a typhoon in 1966 and later restored. The traditional houses now host arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and museums, offering you a chance to experience local culture. After spending an hour, carry on your journey, and head to the breathtaking Shiraito Falls, one of Japan’s most scenic spots, where the waterfall plunges from a height of 20 meters. After spending some time here, you’ll leave Shiraito Falls  and make your way to the Toyota Museum , a must-visit for motor enthusiasts, where you’ll explore the history and innovations behind one of the world’s top automobile manufacturers. Finally, you’ll arrive in Kyoto at 19:00 hrs, where you’ll check in at your accommodation.

Overnight in Kyoto

You’ll spend the whole day in Kyoto, which was the capital of Japan from 794 to 1868 and the home of the Imperial Court. The city managed to escape the bombardments of World War II, preserving its rich artistic heritage, and in 1997, the famous Kyoto Protocol to restrict greenhouse gas emissions was signed here. As you explore Japan tours​, your day begins at 08:30 hrs, you’ll head to the outskirts of Kyoto, beginning in Arashiyama, where you’ll cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge (“bridge over the moon”), offering fantastic views. Your first stop will be Tenryuji Temple, one of the five major Zen temples of Kyoto and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, you’ll stroll through its mystic bamboo forest. The day continues with visits to some of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, including the marvelous Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, the Imperial Palace, and the stunning Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, with its breathtaking gardens. By 19:00 hrs, you’ll be transferred to Gion, Kyoto’s traditional quarter, famous for its Geisha culture. After exploring the area, you’ll have some free time to wander. For your return to the hotel, it will be on your own, and the guide will explain how to take a taxi if you wish.

Overnight in Kyoto

After breakfast you’ll depart from Kyoto and head towards Nara, arriving at 09:00 hrs. Your first stop will be the impressive Todaiji Temple, a magnificent Buddhist temple built in 752, home to a giant Buddha. You’ll have the opportunity to take photos and interact with the friendly deer that roam the surrounding park. After exploring Todaiji, you’ll head to the Horyuji Buddhist Temple, a World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll have time to explore its seminary, monasteries, and temples. The main pagoda is one of the oldest wooden buildings in the world, and the temple itself is the oldest in Japan and a significant place of worship. After your visit, you’ll depart Horyuji for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Next, you’ll continue your journey to Osaka, arriving at 14:30 hrs. After checking into your accommodation, you’ll have some free time to explore this modern city, Japan’s second-largest. In the evening, you’ll visit the vibrant Dotonbori district, known for its lively nightlife and colorful atmosphere.

Overnight in Osaka

Enjoy breakfast; make your own way to the airport to catch your onward flight.