First thing’s first: say konnichiwa to your fellow explorers. Then: prepare for your first taste of Japan – we’ve got a group dinner in the traditional Asakusa district lined up. 

Tour Tokyo: stretch your legs, there’s a walking tour with your expert Trip Leader this morning. First: Meiji Jingū – Tokyo’s grandest Shintō shrine. Then: the uber-kooky Harajuku district (aka cosplay heaven). After: swing by the Shibuya Crossing and experience the Goma Fire Ritual at Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple. 

Later, your way: tummies rumbling? Find a cosy restaurant. Grab some sushi. And practice those chopstick skills.  

Nature’s calling: swap city life for Japanese nature with a journey to the Hakone region. Which will take your breath away: its calm, teal waters and clusters of green trees or the views of Mount Fuji? Likely both.  

Volcano valleys: Owakudani is a volcanic valley that has dramatic written all over it. Hop on the Hakoke Tozan Railway and the Hakone Ropeway that swings you (slowly) across the valley. After, cruise Lake Ashi to level out your adrenaline, followed by some free time before dinner tonight! 

Coastline cities: with hot springs, spas and a snaking beach boardwalk, Atami oozes relaxation. Get to know it during a walking tour with your Trip Leader, spotting shrines, onsens and more. 

Nagoya, your way: after a (quick by Aussie standards) train journey, check in to your hotel in Nagoya and get lost among the two million people who live there. Our recommendation? Eat everything in sight: miso katsu, hitsumabushi and tebasaki are essential dishes packed with tradition. 

Moreish for miso: delve deeper into one of Japan’s traditional dishes at a local miso museum and factory in Okazaki. You might have already tried the thick paste made from soybeans, salt and kōji, so it’s time to learn about its history and enjoy a(nother) tasting. 

Kyoto-bound: Kyoto’s one of those Japanese cities where ancient culture meets modern life – everywhere you turn, you can see the mesh of past and present. Head towards Nishiki Market for a taste of proper homecooked dishes. 

Private drive: explore Kyoto on a comfortable drive with your expert Trip Leader, ticking off Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion and the Tenryū-ji Temple in Arashiyama.  

Free time in the forest: once the official tour ends, explore the sprawling Arashiyama bamboo forest and Togetsu-kyō bridge. Lose yourself, find yourself, then grab a bīru at a local watering hole. Tonight, there’s one final included dinner – bring your favourite moment to share with the group! And wrap up with a karaoke session. When in Japan...! 

Say sayonara: swap those Insta handles – you'll need them for the reunion. And if you’ve only scratched the surface of this Asia adventure, we've got trips to the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam you can hop on!