A journey through ancient history and timeless traditions

We meet at London Heathrow and board our flight to Sapporo, Japan, travelling via Tokyo.

We land in Sapporo and transfer to our hotel for the next two nights. Sapporo is the capital of mountainous Hokkaido, Japan's most northerly island, a place that makes up a fifth of Japan's landmass but is home to less than five per cent of its population. The city is surrounded by stunning nature and is known for its 19th-century architecture, pretty public spaces, and delicious beer.

We're introduced to the area surrounding Sapporo as we head to Otaru. This small port city to the northwest of Sapporo has a wonderfully preserved canal area. We also visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, a fascinating museum that holds thousands of music boxes and has the largest steam clock in the world, at 5.5 metres high. Next, we experience the Nikka Whisky Distillery, founded in 1934. Nikka's malts blend high-quality Japanese whiskey with traditional Scottish techniques, which we have the chance to sample before returning to Sapporo.

We leave Sapporo behind this morning, travelling aboard the Super Hokuto limited express train to Hakodate, where we spend the night. Hakodate is one of Hokkaido island's main cities and is watched over by the imposing Mount Hakodate. In the afternoon, we take a sightseeing tour of the city's main sights by coach where we see Goryokaku, a vast, star-shaped, western-style fort that was completed in 1866. This evening, we ascend Mount Hakodate via a ropeway cable car. At the summit, there are fabulous views stretching out across the city for us to admire.

We get to know the city of Hakodate further today as we visit the local fish market, where fresh produce is bought and sold in a lively atmosphere. We explore the vivid array of stalls of fresh seafood, local vegetables, fruit and even sweets. Afterwards, we make our way by bullet train to Tokyo, speeding through the countryside on the way to Japan's futuristic capital and our home for the next two nights. Upon arrival in the dynamic city, we transfer to our hotel.

We discover Tokyo on a full-day city tour. Effortlessly blending the old and the new, Tokyo is one of the world's most contemporary cities and a high-tech, modern world that's still rooted in ancient traditions. We visit the Asakusa Kannon Temple, a Buddhist temple built in pagoda style and the oldest of its kind in the city. We continue to the imposing Imperial Plaza before visiting Shibuya crossing - the busiest intersection on the planet and an instantly recognisable sight.

We make our way to Tokyo's train station where we board a train to Hakone for the night. On arrival, we set out on a guided sightseeing tour of the town. Hakone is nestled in the heart of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is famous for its hot spring resorts, also known as onsen, as well as its views of iconic Mount Fuji. Our explorations include a cruise across peaceful Lake Ashi, a beautiful crater lake formed by the last eruption of Mount Hakone, 3000 years ago. We also journey on the Hakone Ropeway, a cable car that offers stunning views.

We visit the iconic Mount Fuji. Travelling by coach, we drive along the foot of the mountain before arriving at the Visitor Centre, where we learn more about this world-famous peak. Perhaps the most acclaimed landmark in Japan, Mount Fuji is one of nature's greatest masterpieces and seeing it in real life is truly astonishing, with its almost perfectly symmetrical, snow-capped peak rising from a landscape of forests and glistening lakes. After our breathtaking mountain experience, we continue to Matsumoto, where we spend the night and visit the Chihiro Art Museum Azumino.

This morning we stop off at Matsumoto's Ishii Miso factory for an insight into the production of this traditional Japanese ingredient, alongside a tasting of its unique umami flavours. Next, we visit Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum of rustic farm dwellings in the mountains that shows us what traditional rural life was like in Japan. We also visit Matsumoto Castle, an impressive fortress completed in 1593. Built on a lake, this five-storey fortification is a celebrated National Treasure of Japan, and its interiors are made up of an extensive complex of walls, moats and gatehouses. Continuing to Takayama, a town of narrow streets and wooden houses set deep in the mountains, we marvel at landscapes that seem almost untouched by the passage of time.

We're introduced to Takayama on a fascinating guided tour which includes a visit to the Miyagawa Open Air Market for a taste of local life. The market is one of the biggest morning markets in Japan and sells a wide variety of treats from vegetables, fruit and spices to Japanese souvenirs such as chopsticks and local wooden carvings. Afterwards, we take a train to Nagoya where we board the sleek bullet train to Kyoto. Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is a culturally rich city known for its 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and more than 2000 temples and shrines. We stay here for two nights.

We discover the delights of historic Kyoto, taking in the attractions of this ageless city on a guided tour. We see the fascinating Kyoto Railway Museum, the ethereal Sagano Bamboo Path, and Kinkakuji Temple followed by a traditional tea ceremony, learning how this iconic drink should be brewed, poured and drank. Later, we take an evening stroll through the historic Gion area of the city. This is Kyoto's famous geisha district and as we wander the lantern-adorned streets, keep your eyes open for one of Japan's last-remaining geishas, who are often sighted here in their colourful kimonos.

We enjoy an excursion to Nara, another former ancient capital and home to an impressive eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. A tour of the city includes the Todaiji Temple, the largest wooden building in the world and home to an imposing Great Buddha that dates from the 13th century, built from solid bronze. We continue to Nara Park, a delightful deer sanctuary spread over almost 1,300 acres and home to deer that are so tame, they even bow in greeting to humans. Later, we transfer to Osaka, catching another bullet train to Hiroshima, our base for two nights.

A tour of Hiroshima, famous as one of the sites of an atomic bomb drop towards the end of the Second World War, reveals a now peaceful and thriving city. We learn about the powerful history that helped shape modern-day Japan, as we see the Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome, dedicated to the victims of the tragic devastation of August 6th, 1945. Afterwards, we delve into the city's more ancient past with a boat ride out to Miyajima Island. This tranquil wooded island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famed for its bright red Shinto shrine.

Travelling by bullet train, we make our way to Hakata. Here, we enjoy a sightseeing tour in the Dazaifu Tenman-gu Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto god of literature, and Komyozenji Temple, a Zen temple and Japanese rock garden that dates back to the 13th century. We also see the Kyushu National Museum. The first national museum that opened in Japan over 100 years ago, its displays show the history of Japanese culture through an impressive collection of artefacts and exhibitions. This evening, we head to a local restaurant for a farewell dinner to celebrate the end of our adventures in the 'Land of the Rising Sun.'

Our holiday begins to draw to a close today. We transfer to Fukuoka airport for our flight back to London Heathrow, travelling via Tokyo.

We arrive back in the UK, and your tour comes to an end.

Japan's emblematic high-speed bullet trains (or Shinkansen trains) are renowned throughout the world, having earned their nickname due to their exceptional speed, punctuality and safety, as well as their sleek appearance. The incredible trains are some of the fastest in existence, with a maximum operating speed of up to 200mph (320km/h).

The Nozomi bullet train is Japan's fastest bullet train, runing on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line. We travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima, and Hiroshima to Kyoto on this super-express service, undoubtedly the most comfortable and convenient way to travel across the country.

Combining contemporary hospitality with classic Japanese courtesy, the 4-Star Hotel New Otani Hakata is perfectly placed for our explorations of high-rise Fukuoka. The interiors are a mix of authentic Japanese design and western modernism and facilities include several different restaurants and bars. Each room features a flat-screen television and free Wi-Fi as well as tea-making facilities.

The fantastic 5-Star La Vista Hakodate Bay is our hotel whilst in Hakodate. Boasting of an enviable location overlooking the waters of Hakodate Bay, this wonderful hotel boasts numerous amenities. Situated on the rooftop, with views overlooking the city, is a hot spring where you can unwind and feel invigorated. There are also spa facilities and a wide range of beauty treatments available as well as a restaurant that specialises in seafood. The rooms are en-suite throughout and come equipped with a television, tea & coffee-making facilities, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.

The 4-Star Prince Hotel Hakone Lake Ashinoko can be found on the tranquil shores of Lake Ashi. Close to the station and in sight of the monumental Mount Fuji, this excellent hotel enjoys the landscapes that come with being at the heart of the beautiful Japanese countryside. The range of facilities is extensive and includes a hot spring bath, a Kaede spa, a shopping area and two restaurants. The rooms all come with free Wi-Fi, a mini bar and a television.

In Hiroshima, we stay at the 5-Star Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel, located a short walk away from the train station. This luxury hotel offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant serving traditional Japanese food, an elegant bar, and a relaxed lounge. There is also a spa offering a variety of massage and beauty treatments, a gym and a pool. The guest rooms are light and comfortable and come with a television, a hair dryer, air-conditioning, an in-room safe and free Wi-Fi.

The 4* Rihga Royal Hotel is stylish, sleek and trendy. It was renovated back in September 2016 and now looks more impressive than ever. The best thing about this hotel is the interior design, which is well-lit and exudes class while maintaining a laid back and intimate feel. Amenities are comprehensive and include an indoor swimming pool, a fitness gym and a Jacuzzi. Dining facilities include a revolving French restaurant, various other international restaurants and a bar and lounge. Rooms include a television, complimentary WiFi and a hairdryer.

The 3-Star Hotel Kagetsu boasts the accolade of being Matsumoto's oldest hotel, having opened its doors for the first time in 1887. Today, it offers classically decorated, well-appointed accommodation, with a television, hairdryer, tea & coffee making facilities and air-conditioning available in each spacious guest room. On-site, you'll also find a restaurant serving fresh local cuisine, a coffee house and beauty treatments. The hotel is boasts a great location just a five-minute walk from the historic Matsumoto Castle and is close to the city's main shopping areas.

A warm welcome awaits us at the Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo which is perfectly placed in the heart of Sapporo. Clean and simply decorated guestrooms are fitted with air-conditioning and heating facilities and each room is equipped with an air purifier, tea/coffee-making facilities and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Other facilities include a fitness centre which can be used at an additional cost, 7 dining options, an indoor pool, and rooms with free Wi-Fi.

Enjoy traditional Japanese dishes with lovely views of the city in the Japanese Dining Miyama and Hokkaido Specialities restaurant. Or, sit back and relax with a drink at the Cross Vault Bar.

The 4-Star Hotel Associa Takayama is our base whilst in Takayama. Located at the edge of a beautiful and verdant forest, this hotel boasts some fantastic amenities, including a restaurant serving delectable Japanese food, a lounge and a bar - perfect for relaxing in after a day of exploration. Other leisure facilities include a tennis court and a karaoke room. All of the guest rooms have spectacular views of the surrounding area and come well equipped with an en-suite bathroom, a sitting area, tea & coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen television.

The 4-Star Keio Plaza Hotel in Tokyo is located close to Shinjuku railway station and is ideal for our explorations of the city. There are a wide range of restaurants on site serving Japanese, Chinese, Korean and European cuisine, as well as a coffee shop, cocktail and tea lounge and a Sky Bar, which offers magnificent views over Tokyo from the 45th floor. There's a drugstore, a number of boutiques and a beauty salon, while guests can also enjoy complimentary use of the hotel's outdoor pool and gym. The contemporary western-style rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a television, tea & coffee making facilities, a mini bar, hairdryer and a safe. Most offer excellent views over the city.

Flight upgrades are available. Please contact us for details.

We appreciate that many of our customers travel from a variety of places in the UK to St Pancras International in London to join our tours. Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions.

At Rail Discoveries we can book special fares issued in conjunction with your tour. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

As our tours generally commence at St Pancras International during the morning of the first day (or at Heathrow Airport for holidays beginning with a flight), it is often more convenient to make your way to London the previous day, so you are fresh and rested before joining your tour.

Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home. Alternatively, you may simply wish to enjoy London's many attractions, activities and entertainment options... the theatres, the museums, the parks and the shops are all waiting to be explored!

Whatever your reasons, why not take a little time before or after your Rail Discoveries tour to see what the UK's capital city has to offer? We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or at Heathrow Airport for the night before or after your holiday. Please ask for prices and details.