Meet the SNOW MONKEYS and see Japan’s CHERRY BLOSSOM

Experience the Land of the Rising Sun in spring, with a visit to Mount Fuji and a ride on the iconic bullet train

Japan in springtime is a sight to behold, with the cherry trees covered in pink blossom (known as sakura). But there is so much more to the Land of the Rising Sun, and now’s your chance to discover all it has to offer on this amazing tour. Rich in centuries-old tradition, Japan has tranquil temples and picturesque old towns alongside the bright lights and technical innovation of cities such as Tokyo.

You’ll spend 11 days immersing yourself in the culture. Starting your trip among Tokyo’s dizzying skyscrapers, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city’s fabulous gardens, such as the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Shunkaen Bonsai Museum. Then you’ll experience another side of life in Japan with a ride on the famous bullet train to Kyoto.

Another highlight of the tour is a trip into the Japanese Alps to Jigokudani Monkey Park. There, amid the area’s natural hot springs, you’ll have the chance to get up close to the famous Japanese snow monkeys, who congregate to bathe and play around the warm water. Accustomed to humans, the monkeys ignore guests, allowing you to observe without disturbing them.

Reasons to book

EXPERIENCE JAPANESE TRADITION In Kyoto, you will visit the Ryōan-ji temple, home to the country’s most famous Zen garden, where you’ll learn the art of Zen meditation and enjoy an ancient Japanese tea ceremony in the wonderful setting. While you’re in Tokyo, you will try your hand at making sushi and also attempt the art of shodo, Japanese calligraphy.

ENJOY THE SAKURA

Cherry blossom is deeply symbolic in Japan, and there is no more magical time to see the clouds of pink flowers than late March and early April. With ample time to explore Tokyo, you will see some fabulous displays of sakura in the city’s many parks.

SEE MOUNT FUJI

A trip to Japan wouldn’t be complete without seeing Mount Fuji or travelling on the high-speed bullet train. You will ascend 2,400 metres up the region’s most iconic sight before heading to the spa town of Hakone and embarking on a cruise on the spectacular Lake Ashi.

What a view! Chureito Pagoda overlooks cherry blossom trees and Mount Fuji

Monkey business: meet a very special troop of primates

OUR TRAVEL PARTNER Wendy Wu Tours is the UK’S leading Asia specialist. Its guides will help you navigate this extraordinary part of the world, and better understand its past and future.

Discover the best of Japan on this tailor-made trip