Enjoying a central location on Honshu, Japan's main island, Kyoto was first settled in the 7th century AD, and by 794 it was the capital of Japan. Holding this position until the Imperial Restoration in 1868, Kyoto naturally developed into a large city of wealth and affluence. Kyoto was always the country's largest city, and though this has changed since Tokyo became the capital, it is still a considerable size, and is home to the headquarters of huge companies such as Nintendo.
Kyoto is also known for being a seat of learning, and for this reason it - along with its size - was originally a target for atomic bombing by the Americans in the Second World War. However, it was spared from this fortunately, and even much of the conventional bombing, making Kyoto one of the few cities in Japan to have an abundance of pre-war buildings, right down to small buildings such as standard townhouses.
As a result of its history and subsequent preservation, Kyoto is home to many of the 'typical' images of Japan, and ranks as one of the world's most culturally rich places. The city boasts 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and more than 2000 temples and shrines.
Ancient ceremonies meet 21st century technology in this astonishing country of contrasts. This fascinating tour goes a long way to interpret the mystery of Japan as we cross the country on high-speed bullet trains.
… see more13 days from £3,775 pp
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Absorb ancient history and timeless tradition as we travel through the 'Land of the Rising Sun' by futuristic bullet train. Sample Japanese whiskey, soak up the spectacular sight of Mount Fuji, experience an authentic tea ceremony and explore the bustling cities of Tokyo and Hiroshima on an all-encompassing route through Japan's highlights.
… see more16 days from £5,695 pp
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Uncover the incredible countries of China and Japan on this comprehensive tour that takes in some of the most incredible history, sights, and cities that these two exquisite countries have to offer.
… see more17 days
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An amazing experience of a culture so totally different from our own. Superb accommodation and visits to outstanding sights and sites. Horoshima was deeply, deeply moving. Another visit at some stage is a must.
By Katie Shaw
27 March 2019
From its futuristic bullet trains to spiritual Kyoto and neon-lit Toyko, join Tony Robinson as he discovers the quirks of Japan, on part five of his adventures around the world by train.
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By Jack Stacey
7 January 2019
It’s the new year and boy is there some travelling to be done between now and 2020. With it being nearly the end of the second decade of the new millennium, the future of travel is here and it’s time to get smart with travel.
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By Katie Shaw
6 December 2018
While it’s well known that here at Great Rail Journeys we are passionate about rail travel, it just so happens that we believe aviation is something to be celebrated, too!
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By Sukie Chapman
18 January 2018
You love rail travel but also want to explore further afield than Europe; this is a conundrum many of our customers call us about.
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The travel and hotel arrangements were excellent. One gripe for the elderly is having to constantly move cases at each hotel (with one exception, Thank you Granvia, Kyoto). The Tokyo tour had perhaps one too many historic visits (I personally would have passed on the Edo museum for a daytime look at Shibuya crossing).One day in Tokyo is simply not enough. Similarly, too much Kyoto in 1 day where a 'rest' day would have been priceless. In retrospect, I now query the value of the Hokkaido sector in the tour. Perhaps the time spent here would have served us better elsewhere as it is more of a specialist winter destination, just not enough content for 3+ days.