In the footsteps of the Samurai: from Tokyo to Kyoto

Day 1. Arrival at Narita or Haneda Airport

Welcome to the land of futuristic technology, samurai traditions, and perfect order!

You will be met at the airport, and a comfortable transfer to the hotel will be arranged (if this option has been booked).

After check-in, you’ll have free time to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Stroll through the bustling streets of Shibuya and witness the famous diagonal pedestrian crossing, where over 3,000 people can cross at once. Or head to Akihabara, a paradise for gamers and anime enthusiasts. Alternatively, simply enjoy your first taste of Japan by ordering traditional sushi or ramen in a cosy local restaurant.

Day 2. Tokyo city tour

Today, travel through the centuries — from samurai legends to imperial palaces.

• Sengaku-ji Temple‍

This Buddhist temple is the resting place of the famous 47 rōnin, whose story symbolises samurai loyalty. It is a small, quiet and modest site — without grand gardens or elaborate buildings — yet one where visitors are inclined to linger and reflect on the events that have become an integral part of Japanese culture.

• Imperial Palace and Nijūbashi Bridge‍

The Imperial Palace (Kōkyō) is Tokyo's historic heart, located on the former site of Edo Castle. During the Second World War, the palace was destroyed but rebuilt in 1968. While the palace is closed to the public, its picturesque East Gardens remain open. In spring, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is celebrated around the palace grounds. The main entrance is marked by the elegant Nijūbashi Bridge, where the reflection of its twin arches in the water gives the illusion of two levels.

• Meiji Shrine‍

The Meiji Shrine is a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Towering 12-metre-high torii gates lead into a sacred forest of 100,000 trees planted by volunteers from across Japan. Traditional Japanese weddings are frequently held here, and on New Year’s Day, millions come to make hatsumōde — the first shrine visit of the year.

• Japanese Sword Museum‍

Japanese swords are true works of art crafted by master swordsmiths whose knowledge has been passed down through generations. In this museum, view katanas, tantō, tachi, and wakizashi and discover the secrets of their forging and rich history.

After a full day of exploration, return to the hotel.

Day 3. Nikko

Today, you will visit one of Japan's most mystical and picturesque places: the ancient city of Nikko.

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• Nikko Toshogu Shrine

This is one of the most lavish and unique shrines in Japan. It was built in honour of the military leader Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the powerful Tokugawa shogunate. The entire complex is adorned with intricate carvings, including the famous "Three Wise Monkeys" — symbolising the principle "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil", the "Imaginary Elephant", and the "Sleeping Cat."

• Rinnoji Temple

Rinnoji is Nikko’s principal Buddhist temple. It was founded in the 8th century by the monk Shodo Shonin and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its main treasure is the Sanbutsudo Hall, where three gilded wooden statues of Buddhist deities are enshrined.

• Taiyuin Mausoleum

The Taiyuin-byo Temple impresses with its ornate decoration and fusion of Buddhist and Shinto elements. The entrance is guarded by the red-orange Niōmon Gate, followed by the exquisite Karamon Gate, adorned with a sculpture of a white dragon. At the heart of the complex are the Honden Hall and the mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty.

After the tour, return to your hotel in Tokyo.

Day 4. Ueda and Matsumoto

Today, travel by high-speed train to Ueda, a city in Nagano Prefecture.

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• Ueda Castle

The first stop is Ueda Castle, the stronghold of the Sanada clan — a fortress that twice withstood the Tokugawa army. Enjoy striking views of the Chikuma River and the surrounding mountains from here.

• Matsumoto Castle

Next on the route is Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest and most beautiful fortresses. Due to its black walls, it is also known as the "Crow Castle." Inside, explore steep staircases, ancient armouries, and watchtowers, and enjoy panoramic views of the Japanese Alps from the top floor.

• Nagamachi District

End the day with a stroll through the Nagamachi district, once home to samurai. Narrow lanes, thatched-roof houses and traditional gardens all evoke the atmosphere of old Japan. Visit the Nomura Samurai House to glimpse the life of a warrior during the Edo period.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Matsumoto.

Day 5. Nagano and Kanazawa

The fifth day is dedicated to history and tradition.

• Zenkoji Temple

This Buddhist temple, founded in the 7th century, is considered one of the most revered in Japan. It houses the first Buddhist statue ever brought to the country — an image which, according to legend, has not been seen by anyone for over a thousand years. Visitors can walk through the dark tunnel of the kaidan-meguri to seek the "key to enlightenment."

• Kawanakajima Battlefield

This is one of the most renowned battlefields in Japanese history, where Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin clashed for dominance in the 16th century.

• Matsushiro Domain

Matsushiro is a samurai town where noble residences, ancient castles, and the underground Imperial Headquarters built during the Second World War have been preserved. The former residence of the Sanada clan is particularly worth visiting for a glimpse into feudal Japan.

After the excursions, take a high-speed train to Kanazawa and rest at the hotel.