Taste of Japan Itinerary

Arrive in Japan and travel beneath the neon lights of Tokyo city. Embark on an epicurean adventure through a city that dazzles with excellent restaurants, making it an ideal launching pad into the diversity of Japanese cuisine. Learn to make soba noodles and visit Tsukiji Fish Market, where more than 400 different types of seafood are sold.

Travel from Tokyo to Takayama. Nestled in the mountains, this beautiful town is a quaint cluster of traditional inns and sake breweries. Check out Takayama's 600-year-old morning market, visit the outdoor museum of the Hida Folk Village and sip on some local sake.

Steeped in mysticism and religious history, the Koya-san temples provide a tranquil setting for trying its shojin ryori (vegetarian cuisine) and joining the resident monks in meditation. Visit the temple of Kongobu and the delightful rock garden of the Shingon complex.

Partake in the local custom of 'kuidaore' (to eat until you drop) and indulge in the smorgasbord of delights on Dotombori - Osaka's 'eat street'. Don't miss the local treat of takoyaki (octopus balls), while the culinarily courageous can feast on fugu (pufferfish).

Be inspired by the beauty of Itsukushima-jinja on the island of Miyajima before sampling the city's famed okonomiyaki, an egg-based savoury pancake. Hiroshima city is also renowned for its oysters and momiji manju, a treat filled with sweet bean paste.

Revel in the opulence of Himeji-jo en route to Kyoto, a city steeped in tradition and which boasts incredible natural beauty and a noticeable lack of tall buildings. Learn to prepare traditional cuisine that emphasises freshness, seasonality and elegance. Finish up the adventure by exploring the many Kyoto temples and a group dinner.