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A Journey Through Two Ancient Cultures: Japan & China Discovery

From £6,499pp
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Holiday Overview

  • Duration 20 NIGHTS
  • Departure 05 March 2025
  • Holiday type Touring Holidays
  • Holiday code ASA2243

Small Group Touring Limited to only
20 guests!

Save up to £1,000 per couple* - Ends 18.10.24

Experience the Bullet Train in Japan & China

Tick two incredible destinations off your bucket list as you travel from Japan’s majestic Mount Fuji to the Great Wall of China.

Japan offers a window into a world of amazing contrasts. During your 13-night discovery, you’ll delve into fascinating cities, serene temples, pristine gardens, and ancient traditions. You’ll also soak in the natural beauty and essence of Japan with a variety of exciting rail journeys. From high-speed bullet trains reaching almost 321 kilometres per hour to scenic trains meandering past forested ravines, rivers, and majestic mountains.

From soaring skyscrapers to secrets of the Terracotta Army, discover China’s greatest treasures during a fully escorted tour. Beginning in Xi’an, home to one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world, travel to Beijing to admire the magnificent Temple of Heaven, uncover history in the Forbidden City and marvel at the winding Great Wall of China.

Your Imagine Holiday Includes

Hotel Stays

2 night four-star hotel stay in Tokyo at the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba

2 night four-star stay in Shizuoka at the Hotel Associa Shizuoka

1 night four-star hotel stay in Takayama at the Mercure Hida Takayama

1 night four-star stay in Kanazawa at the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel

3 night four-star stay in Kyoto at THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

2 night four-star stay in Hiroshima at the RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima

2 night four-star hotel stay in Osaka at the Zentis Osaka

1 night four-star stay in Shanghai at the Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel

2 night five-star hotel stay in Xi’an at the Gran Meliá Xian

3 night five-star stay in Beijing at the NUO Hotel Beijing

All hotel stays include breakfast

Rail Journeys

Southern Japan Alps Train

Bullet Train from Shizouka to Nagoya

The Limited Express Thunderbird from Kanazawa to Kyoto

Sagano Romantic Train

Bullet Train from Kyoto to Hiroshima

Bullet Train from Hiroshima to Osaka

Bullet Train from Xi’an to Beijing

Fully Escorted Tours

Tokyo tour including Ginza, Hamarikyu Gardens, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa Kannon Temple and Sumida River cruise

Mount Fuji tour including lakes Yamanaka and Kawaguchi, Mount Fuji 5th Station, and Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Takayama tour including Takayama Jinya, Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan and Sanmachi Suji

Historic village of Shirakawa-go

Kyoto tour including Fushimi Inari Shrine, Gion district, Nijō Castle, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoanji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, traditional kaiseki dining and a tea ceremony

Hiroshima tour including Peace Memorial Park

Miyajima Island tour

Osaka Castle tour

Terracotta Warriors

Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City

The Great Wall of China and Summer Palace

All Flights & Transfers

London departure – regional flights available

Overnight flight

Luggage transfer provided when travelling on Bullet Train to hotel.
Named hotels are based on availability and are subject to change without notice. Alternative hotels will always be of equal or higher star rating.
Holiday duration includes overnight flights when applicable and is subject to change.
*Prices shown include discount and savings based on two passengers sharing a Twin Cabin, booking directly with Imagine Holidays.

Your Tour

Your Itinerary

Day 1
Fly Overnight to Tokyo

Your holiday begins as you fly from the UK to your destination.

Day 2
Tokyo: Hotel Stay

Tokyo boasts an incredible blend of both modern and tradition, as soaring neon skyscrapers sit next to ancient temples and gleaming shrines. Marvel at the views from the Shibuya Sky Observatory or soak up the colourful sights of Harajuku.

Overnight: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba

Day 3
Tokyo: Hotel Stay & Tour

Delve into some of Tokyo’s most fascinating sights during a fully escorted coach tour. Highlights include the famous upmarket shopping district, Ginza, holy Meiji Jingu, and a Sumida River cruise.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba

Day 4
Tokyo: Tour & Shizuoka Hotel Stay

A fully escorted tour will take you to Mount Fuji. Marvel at the beauty of the prominent mountain surrounded by ancient forests and white clouds. Take the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway cable car and catch a spectacular view.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Hotel Associa Shizuoka

Day 5
Shizuoka: Hotel Stay & Tour

Step on board a characterful steam train which weaves through the gorges along the Oi River. This river has been an important water source since ancient times that underpins the lives and agriculture of the local people.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Hotel Associa Shizuoka

Day 6
Takayama: Hotel Stay & Tour

Today, you’ll enjoy a rail journey to Takayama. Highlights of a walking tour include the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan, a museum devoted to the unique floats of the Takayama Festival, and the historic Old Town.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Mercure Hida Takayama

Day 7
Kanazawa: Hotel Stay & Tour

Enjoy a leisurely stroll to the morning Takayama Market and then join your coach taking you to Kanazawa for an overnight stay. En route, you’ll stop at picturesque Shirakawa-go village, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel

Day 8
Kyoto: Hotel Stay & Tour

Taking the Thunderbird train to Kyoto, you’ll then step on board your coach for a half-day guided tour, complete with a traditional tea ceremony. Come evening, you’ll discover the magical Gion district, known for being the city’s Geisha area.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Day 9
Kyoto: Hotel Stay & Tour

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Kyoto during a fully escorted tour. You’ll visit captivating sights such as Ryoanji and relish a journey on board the Sagano Romantic train to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Day 10
Kyoto: Hotel Stay

Kyoto has a reputation as the most beautiful city in Japan and is one of the most culturally rich cities in the world. Relax in one of the public baths or the city’s many cafés and restaurants.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Day 11
Hiroshima: Hotel Stay & Tour

Journey by bullet train to Hiroshima to embark on a half-day tour. During your time here you’ll visit the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome – the only structure left standing near the bomb’s epicentre.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima

Day 12
Hiroshima: Hotel Stay & Tour

Today, you’ll enjoy a half-day tour discovering beautiful Miyajima Island. You’ll reach this sacred island by ferry as you marvel at the delightful views of the red-gated Itsukushima Shrine.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima

Day 13
Osaka: Hotel Stay & Tour

Travelling to Osaka by bullet train, you’ll then have an afternoon tour to Osaka Castle. This five-story castle is one of the most visually spectacular creations in the country, with a history that dates back almost 450 years.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Zentis Osaka

Day 14
Osaka: Hotel Stay

Japan’s second largest city, Osaka is a commercial hub of modern architecture and ancient shrines. You could visit fascinating highlights such as Osaka aquarium or Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest shrines.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Zentis Osaka

Day 15
Shanghai: Hotel Stay

In Shanghai, immerse yourself in the vibrant mix of tradition and modernity. Stroll along the Bund for stunning skyline views, savour the local delicacies at Yu Garden, and explore the intricate beauty of Jade Buddha Temple.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel

Day 16
Xi'an: Hotel Stay

Now on to Xi’an for a two-night escape and the imposing Terracotta Army. History buffs will also appreciate the Bell Tower of Xi’an, built in 1384, while foodies may wish to stroll the Muslim Quarter, packed with tasty local cuisine.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Gran Meliá Xian

Day 17
Xi'an: Hotel Stay & Tour

It was only by accident that, in 1974, farmers stumbled upon the 8,000 soldiers of the Terracotta Army – a symbol of the power and megalomania of Qin Shi Huangdi, China’s first emperor. Sculpted in 210 BC, each of the figures carries its own unique features.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: Gran Meliá Xian

Day 18
Beijing: Hotel Stay

Today, you’ll embark on a high-speed train to Beijing. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, it’s a treasure trove of cultural landmarks. The Great Wall of China and the Temple of Heaven are just two sites you’ll visit.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing

Day 19
Beijing: Hotel Stay & Tour

Visit the magnificent Temple of Heaven with its symbolic representations of heaven and Earth, together with the scarlet-walled Forbidden City – home to imperial rulers. Then on to the remarkable Tiananmen Square and the heart of the People’s Republic.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing

Day 20
Beijing: Hotel Stay & Tour

Get ready for the Great Wall of China – the longest wall in the world and the only manmade structure visible from space! Discover its 2,000-year history, then explore the breathtaking Summer Palace and imperial gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing

Day 21
Beijing: Fly Home

Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Tour Highlights

Great Wall of China
Admire the Great Wall of China, the longest wall in the world that bends and twists over hills and valleys like a giant dragon fiercely guarding its borders. During your tour you’ll explore the quieter Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a 2.5-kilometre stretch which features 22 watchtowers.
Forbidden City
Experience the awe-inspiring Forbidden City Tour, a journey through China's imperial history. Wander through the majestic halls and courtyards, where emperors once ruled in splendour. Discover the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to China's rich culture and heritage.
Terracotta Army
Xi'an, birthplace of Chinese civilisation, houses the astounding Terracotta Army. Unearthed accidentally by farmers, these life-sized warriors, boasting intricate details, including hair, expressions, and armour, encircle the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. A remarkable and enigmatic discovery.
Bullet Train
A triumph of high-speed rail, Japan’s bullet trains connect Tokyo with most of the country’s major cities. Departing on time to the second, these trains are a marvel of precision engineering, travelling at speeds of nearly 200 miles per hour and carrying an average 420,000 passengers on a typical weekday.
Hakone Ropeway Cable Car
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hakone like never before with the Hakone Ropeway Cable Car. Soar above lush forests and witness the iconic Mount Fuji in all its glory. This unforgettable journey offers a unique perspective of Japan's natural wonders. Don't miss this chance to elevate your Hakone adventure.
Mount Fuji
More than 200,000 people climb the snow-capped summit of Mount Fuji every year. Its elegant shape has long been depicted in art and literature and visitors can hike to the top or take the Hakone Ropeway Cable Car, admiring the view often shrouded by an atmospheric layer of cloud.

Prices

Twin Share Prices from £6,499pp

Solo Passenger Prices from £8,199pp

Your Hotel Stays

Tokyo

Included Hotel

Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba (Or Similar)

Situated on Tokyo’s scenic waterfront, the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba offers a peaceful and sophisticated retreat to return to after thrilling days exploring Tokyo. This hotel satiates all your dining desires with nine charming restaurants to choose from, including Teppanyaki Icho, which serves expertly crafted Japanese cuisine prepared from authentic seasonal ingredients. You can also enjoy a serene swim in the tranquil rooftop swimming pool, followed by a return to your elegant room boasting some of the best panoramic views of the city.

Shizuoka

Included Hotel

Hotel Associa Shizuoka (Or Similar)

Japanese elegance meets modern comfort at the luxurious Hotel Associa Shizuoka. Boasting a prime location in Shizuoka, this exquisite hotel offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji which are married with impeccable service. Indulge in the sophisticated ambiance of well-appointed rooms, savour culinary delights in the on-site restaurants, and unwind in the serene spa. With its strategic location and world-class amenities, Hotel Associa Shizuoka promises an unforgettable stay, blending tradition and opulence for a truly refined experience.

Takayama

Included Hotel

Mercure Hida Takayama (Or Similar)

Experience the epitome of Japanese hospitality at Mercure Hida Takayama. Nestled in the heart of historic Takayama, this hotel seamlessly blends modern comfort with traditional charm. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the region as you explore nearby attractions like the Old Town and Takayama Jinya. Indulge in exquisite local cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant and unwind in well-appointed rooms that reflect the essence of Hida. Elevate your stay with Mercure’s commitment to impeccable service, ensuring a memorable and authentic Japanese experience.

Kanazawa

Included Hotel

Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel (Or Similar)

At the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, traditional Japanese elegance meets contemporary comfort. Situated in the heart of Kanazawa, this distinguished hotel offers refined accommodations, impeccable service and a perfect blend of modern amenities with cultural charm. Indulge in spacious rooms adorned with exquisite details, savour gourmet delights at the on-site restaurants, and unwind in the tranquil ambiance. Elevate your stay in Kanazawa with the unmatched sophistication and hospitality of Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel, promising an unforgettable experience in the heart of Japan.

Kyoto

Included Hotel

THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel (Or Similar)

Experience elegance and cultural richness at The Hotel Higashiyama by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel. Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, this haven seamlessly combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury. Immerse yourself in refined accommodations adorned with authentic touches, offering a serene escape. Indulge in exquisite cuisine at the hotel’s restaurants, showcasing the finest flavours of Kyoto. With impeccable service and a tranquil ambiance, The Hotel Higashiyama invites you to experience a harmonious blend of tradition and sophistication, ensuring an enchanting stay in the cultural heart of Japan.

Hiroshima

Included Hotel

RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima (Or Similar)

The RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima is a beacon of sophistication in the heart of the city. Indulge in opulent accommodations, where contemporary elegance meets traditional Japanese charm. Savour exquisite cuisine at our world-class restaurants, unwind in the spa, and relish panoramic views of Hiroshima. With impeccable service and a strategic location, our hotel is the epitome of refined hospitality. Elevate your travel experience at the RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima – where every moment is a masterpiece.

Osaka

Included Hotel

Zentis Osaka (Or Similar)

Zentis Osaka is a stylish four-star hotel located in the heart of Osaka, Japan. Combining modern elegance with traditional Japanese aesthetics, the hotel offers a tranquil retreat amid the bustling city. Guests can enjoy stylish rooms, a serene garden, and top-notch amenities, including a renowned restaurant serving exquisite local cuisine. With its commitment to exceptional service and attention to detail, Zentis Osaka provides an unforgettable experience for both leisure and business travellers. Its prime location also allows easy access to Osaka’s vibrant cultural and shopping districts.

Shanghai

Included Hotel

Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel (Or Similar)

The Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel seamlessly blends modern luxury with traditional Chinese charm. Indulge in delectable dining at the stylish YU Bar, serving exquisite cocktails and panoramic views. Unwind in the serene Aura Spa, offering rejuvenating treatments. Admire the hotel’s elegant décor, inspired by classic Chinese elements and contemporary design. Enjoy spacious, well-appointed rooms with scenic city views, ensuring a memorable stay in Shanghai.

Xi'an

Included Hotel

Gran Meliá Xian (Or Similar)

Located next to Tang Paradise, Gran Meliá Xian offers private gardens, a lake, and even a big-name shopping mall amidst its welcoming grounds. Guests can enjoy meals at a choice of five restaurants, or work off the calories in the well-equipped fitness centre. There’s also a beautiful indoor pool beneath a panoramic roof as well as a hot tub and spa. Every room comes with a TV, air conditioning, and a balcony offering views of wither the lake or the city. Enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Beijing

Included Hotel

Nuo Hotel Beijing (Or Similar)

The NUO Hotel Beijing, located in the Chaoyang District, is a luxury hotel known for its exquisite design, elegant accommodations, and commitment to Chinese art and culture. The hotel offers a range of spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites, all designed with a blend of contemporary luxury and traditional Chinese elements.

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