Ancient & Modern Wonders of Beijing, Tokyo and Kyoto

Arrive in Beijing, located in the north of the People’s Republic of China. After hotel check-in, the rest of your day is free at leisure.

The Chinese capital for more than 800 years, Beijing (formerly, Peking) is one of the world’s oldest cities, with a rich history dating back three millennia. Beijing is home to some of the finest remnants of China’s imperial past and renowned for its ancient architecture that includes magnificent palaces, temples, parks and tombs, with a total of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, this sprawling megacity is also the world’s third most populous city proper and China’s cultural and political hub. Alongside the city’s centuries-old treasures, startling modern developments and architecture showcase the new, 21^st century face of China.

Allegedly more than 2,000 years old, the Great Wall is recognised as one of the world’s most impressive feats of ancient defensive architecture and one of its longest man-made structures, extending across diverse landscapes. Once important fortification systems to defend China from invaders, today, the Great Wall is a top tourist attraction. We explore Mutianyu, one of the more picturesque, least crowded and longest wall section open to tourists. Hike-up the mountain ridge to the top, passing beautifully restored architecture and watchtowers. Enjoy breathtaking views, then descend down on foot, cable car, or toboggan. Later, visit UNESCO-heritage listed Summer Palace, a retreat for emperors containing lakes, landscaped gardens, pavilions, temples and palaces dating back to the 12^th century. This evening, sample world-famous Peking duck, China’s most celebrated imperial court dish, at a century-old restaurant. Then watch a spectacular Shaolin Kung Fu show at the acclaimed Red Theatre, featuring a fast-paced display of Chinese martial arts stunts, dances and acrobatics.  

Early morning, take a ride on the Beijing subway, the fastest way to get around and beat the capital’s notorious traffic jams. Experience daily local life, travelling with school kids and commuters. Disembark at stunning Temple of Heaven, the holiest of Beijing’s imperial temples. Amid the temple park, observe locals partaking in their daily morning exercise, including Tai Chi, Kung Fu and sword fighting, besides practicing meditation and calligraphy. Then visit one of Beijing’s most popular teahouses, a good place to soak-up local life. Drinking tea has been an integral part of Chinese culture for over 5,000 years. Later, cycle through Beijing’s hutongs, centuries-old narrow streets lined with traditional courtyard residences, many under heritage status. Cycling through hutongs and around Houhai Lake affords a first-hand experience of Beijing’s grassroots street culture and preferred mode of transport. Later, discover the capital’s modern side at Wangfujing, the longest and most famous shopping street.

Explore the stupendous Forbidden City, the world’s largest imperial palace complex and China’s best-preserved collection of ancient buildings. The UNESCO Heritage-listed Forbidden City was the former imperial palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties from 1420 to 1912, the residence of 24 emperors and their households and the Chinese government’s ceremonial and political epicentre. Amid this mammoth compound, our exploration focuses on three main sections, which cover the official palaces, imperial lodges set in beautiful gardens and traditional temples and libraries. Along with your expert guides’ insightful explanations and glimpses of the meticulously restored architecture, understand more about China’s momentous history and exalted lives of the emperors. Later, catch a flight to Japan’s dynamic capital, Tokyo. After your airport transfer, the rest of the day is free at leisure in this megacity of non-stop action.

Shinto is the ancient indigenous faith of Japan. Visit Tokyo’s most revered Shinto shrine, Meiji Jingū, dedicated to Emperor Meiji, the first emperor of modern Japan. Experience a private Shinto prayer ceremony, followed by a ritual dance performed by Miko, female Shinto attendants. In contrast, nearby Harajuku is a bustling neighbourhood famed for its vibrant youth and cosplay culture, the birthplace of teen fashion trends and ‘Kawaii’ style. Continue to Shibuya, where your guide shares the story behind the beloved Hachikō Statue, a well-known Tokyo meeting point, before crossing the iconic Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. Later, attend a private Iaido (Iai) class under the guidance of a sword master. Dressed in traditional samurai attire, learn the disciplined sword techniques of the samurai warriors and gain insight into Bushidō, the samurai code of conduct.

Start the morning at Tsukiji Outer Market, where the lively lanes continue to showcase fresh seafood, seasonal produce and specialist kitchen tools. Then attend a traditional Kabuki performance at the historic Kabukiza Theatre, a cornerstone of Japanese performing arts recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Palace, built on the former site of Edo Castle, pausing at the historic moat and the iconic Nijūbashi Bridge. Round out the day at the Japan Sake & Shochu Information Center, sampling two of Japan’s most celebrated drinks: sake and shochu.

Leave behind the vibrant pulse of modern Tokyo and glide westward aboard the legendary Shinkansen. This seamless journey offers not only comfort and precision, but, on a clear day, a fleeting yet unforgettable glimpse of Mount Fuji rising on the horizon, a timeless emblem of Japan. Arriving in Kyoto, you step into the soul of the nation. For over a millennium, this former imperial capital shaped Japan’s spiritual, artistic, and ceremonial traditions, its elegant temples, hushed shrines, and UNESCO-listed treasures preserving a legacy of refinement that continues to define the country’s cultural identity. As evening falls, be welcomed to an exclusive Dinner with a Maiko, a rare and intimate encounter with Kyoto’s living heritage. Gracefully adorned in exquisite kimono, the maiko, an apprentice geisha trained in classical dance, music, and the art of hospitality, offers a captivating performance steeped in centuries-old tradition. Savour a beautifully curated seasonal kaiseki dinner while joining in refined ozashiki games, experiencing firsthand the elegance, charm, and artistry that define Kyoto’s most celebrated cultural world.

Start the day exploring Kyoto with a visit to Kinkaku-ji, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The temple’s shimmering golden façade and tranquil surroundings offer a serene introduction to Kyoto’s timeless beauty. Afterward, enjoy a special cultural experience dressing in a traditional kimono. With guidance in selecting your attire, stroll through historic streets lined with preserved townhouses and traditional scenery, capturing memorable moments in one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric old quarters. In the afternoon, continue to Arashiyama, beginning with a visit to Tenryu-ji, renowned for its elegant Zen garden set against a mountain backdrop. Take a gentle walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks create a calming, immersive atmosphere. Experience the area further with a traditional rickshaw ride, offering a relaxed and scenic perspective of Arashiyama. Conclude the day at Togetsukyo Bridge, taking in riverside views and the natural beauty that defines this iconic part of Kyoto.

Begin the day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of vivid vermilion torii gates winding up the forested mountainside. Dedicated to the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity, the shrine offers a serene introduction to Kyoto’s spiritual traditions and reverence for nature. Continue to Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s vibrant culinary heart, and stroll through its covered lanes lined with long-established vendors offering fresh seafood, pickles, Kyoto specialties and handcrafted knives. Sample local treats before enjoying lunch at a nearby restaurant of your choice. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the refined ritual of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at a local teahouse. Guided by an experienced tea master, savour the calm preparation and enjoyment of matcha while learning about the cultural philosophy behind this time-honoured practice. Conclude the day at Kiyomizu-dera, celebrated for its vast wooden stage extending over the hillside and panoramic views across Kyoto, before returning to your hotel.

Free at leisure until the private transfer from the hotel to Osaka’s Kansai International Airport for your onward flight.