9 Day The Japan Experience(over40s)

Your Japanese adventure starts the moment you land!

We'll meet you at the airport and whisk you away by private transfer to your stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Osaka.

Once you've had time to freshen up, it's time to meet your fellow travellers over a fun welcome dinner at one of our favourite family run restaurants. Expect delicious Japanese dishes, plenty of laughs and your first taste of what's to come.

After dinner, we'll head out for an easy evening wander beneath Osaka's famous neon lights — the perfect introduction to Japan.

Early risers can join our optional Sunrise Run Club, or take things slower with a peaceful morning walk along the river.

Then it's time to dive into Osaka — Japan's legendary foodie city.

We'll explore colourful markets, taste local treats and discover some of the neighbourhoods most visitors completely miss.

The afternoon brings one of our trip highlights: a hands on sushi making class!

Learn from a local sushi expert as you prepare your own Japanese favourites, pick up a few chef secrets and, most importantly, sit down together to eat everything you've created.

Tonight, we'll head up high for rooftop cocktails with views across Osaka's sparkling skyline.

Today we're off to Kyoto — Japan's beautiful cultural heart.

After checking into our boutique accommodation, we'll head out to explore atmospheric backstreets filled with traditional wooden machiya houses, tiny shops and hidden corners that feel like stepping into another era.

As evening falls, we'll settle in for dinner at a carefully chosen local restaurant where seasonal Japanese dishes take centre stage.

Today is all about experiencing the Japan you've dreamed about.

Dress in a beautiful traditional kimono before taking part in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony, discovering the rituals and traditions behind this centuries old practice.

We'll then slow things down as we wander through peaceful temple gardens and atmospheric local neighbourhoods away from Kyoto's busiest tourist routes.

There'll be plenty of time for photos, little discoveries and spontaneous stops along the way before another relaxed evening together.

We're escaping Kyoto today for gorgeous Nara.

First stop: Nara Park, where the city's famous free roaming deer are waiting to say hello — and possibly steal your snacks!

We'll visit the spectacular Todai-ji Temple and see its enormous Great Buddha before stopping for lunch at a charming local restaurant.

After a day of temples, nature and plenty of deer selfies, we'll head back to Kyoto for our final evening in the city.

It's time for one of Japan's bucket list experiences — riding the legendary Shinkansen bullet train to Tokyo.

We'll travel in comfort, with Green Car seating where possible, watching Japan race past the windows as we make our way towards one of the world's most exciting cities.

After checking in, we'll explore one of Tokyo's local neighbourhoods before gathering for dinner.

Then it's time to experience Tokyo after dark — bright lights, buzzing streets and that unmistakable big-city energy.

Today we're leaving the obvious tourist checklist behind and discovering a different side of Tokyo.

Think independent boutiques, tucked away cafés, colourful markets, tiny side streets and neighbourhood spots you'd probably never find on your own.

We'll also meet a local Japanese artisan for a hands on introduction to a traditional craft — giving you the chance to create something and take home a much more personal souvenir from Japan.

The rest of the evening is yours to explore, shop, eat or simply soak up Tokyo.

We've saved something very special for our final full day.

We'll leave Tokyo behind and head towards Mount Fuji, travelling into one of Japan's most beautiful landscapes.

Spend the day surrounded by mountain scenery, peaceful lakes and picture perfect viewpoints, with time for a gentle nature walk and — weather permitting — those unforgettable views of Fuji itself.

Then comes the ultimate Japanese experience.

We'll visit a traditional Japanese onsen, where you can slip into the warm mineral rich hot spring baths and completely unwind after an incredible week of exploring.

Mountains, hot springs and fresh air — this is Japan at its most magical.

Feeling thoroughly relaxed, we'll return to Tokyo for our farewell dinner, raising a glass to an amazing nine days and all the new friendships and memories made along the way.

Enjoy one last relaxed Japanese morning — grab a final coffee, pick up those last minute souvenirs or squeeze in one more bowl of ramen.

Then we'll take you to the airport for your journey home.

You'll leave Japan with a camera roll full of memories, new friends, new stories and probably a very long list of places you want to come back and explore.