Asian Highlights with the Japanese Alps (2026)

Day 1: Shanghai

Welcome to China! Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. We arrive in Shanghai, a cosmopolitan city of over 15 million residents, home to China’s largest commercial port and its most international metropolis.

Day 2: Shanghai

Our tour of Shanghai will take us through its most iconic sights. We´ll begin in Pudong, Shanghai’s modern financial district, located across the Huangpu River. This area is home to towering skyscrapers, including the iconic Pearl Tower.We’ll then take a scenic ferry ride across the Shanghai River, offering spectacular views of both the historic and contemporary sides of the city.Next, we’ll stroll through the Old City and visit the serene Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we’ll also experience a traditional tea ceremony, an integral part of China’s rich cultural heritage.Our tour will continue through Xintiandi, one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its stylish boutiques, cafés, and vibrant atmosphere.Lunch will be included.In the afternoon, we’ll explore Tianzifang, a former residential district now famous for its maze-like alleys, charming craft shops, and contemporary art galleries.We’ll conclude our day with a walk along The Bund, where grand colonial-era buildings reflect the influence of European trade in Shanghai.Free afternoon. If you wish, you can enjoy a boat trip to see Shanghai at night, it will be an unforgettable experience.

Day 3: Shanghai - Luoyang

Transfer to the train station to board a high-speed train (scheduled departure at 07:17 a.m.). In just over five hours, we’ll travel 1,000 km through picturesque landscapes, passing through beautiful stretches of countryside before arriving in Luoyang.Lunch will be included.Our visit will begin at the awe-inspiring Longmen Buddhist Caves, an extraordinary complex stretching over a kilometer along the rocky cliffs of the river. Here, more than 100,000 Buddha statues and carvings have been sculpted into the stone, creating one of China’s most remarkable archaeological sites. To fully appreciate the grandeur of this site, we’ll also enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river.Afterward, we’ll transfer to the ancient city of Luoyang, where we’ll pass through its imposing walls and immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of its illuminated streets, filled with traditional charm and vibrant local activity.

Day 4: Luoyang - Longmen - Sanmexia - Xian

In the early morning, on the outskirts of Luoyang, we’ll visit the White Horse Buddhist Monastery, a vast and historic center of Buddhist learning that welcomes scholars and practitioners from around the world.We’ll then continue our journey to Sanmenxia, a city rich in history. Here, we’ll admire the mighty Yellow River and visit the Baolun Temple, known for its striking tall pagoda. We’ll also explore the renowned Guo Museum, considered one of the finest in China, where we’ll see the ancient funeral carriages of the former State of Guo, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.Lunch will be included.Our journey eastward will take us past the sacred Mount Hua, one of China’s holiest mountains, known for its dramatic peaks and spiritual significance.By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Xian, where our day will come to an end.

Day 5: Xian

We have arrived in Xian, the fascinating city where the ancient Silk Road began.In the morning, we’ll visit the legendary Terracotta Army, an astonishing archaeological site where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, hidden underground for centuries, stand guard over the tomb of China’s first emperor.Afterward, we’ll return to Xian to visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist structure that has stood for over a thousand years.Next, we’ll explore the city’s historic walled center, passing through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where we’ll visit the Great Mosque. This unique site reflects the rich blend of cultures and religions that have shaped China over the centuries.Our tour also includes entrance to the Drum Tower, where we’ll enjoy a short performance of traditional Chinese music played on ancient instruments.Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace.

Day 6: Xian - Linfen - Wang Family Mansion - Pingyao

We’ll depart from Xian aboard a state-of-the-art high-speed train, reaching Linfen in less than three hours.From there, we’ll continue by coach to the Mansion of the Wang Clan, an impressive estate built by a wealthy family between the 17th and 19th centuries, showcasing the grandeur of traditional Chinese architecture.Lunch will be included.Our journey will then take us to Pingyao, the best-preserved historical city in China. With more than 4,000 ancient buildings, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the country’s rich past. We’ll take time to explore its charming streets, where centuries-old traditions still thrive.Our tour includes entry tickets granting access to all the temples, mansions, and the city’s walls, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable town.

Day 7: Pingyao - Wutai

Today, we’ll journey to one of the most spiritually significant places in China—Wutai Mountain. Nestled among lush green mountains and dense forests, this sacred site is a major center of Lamaism, a form of Buddhism deeply rooted in the region.Home to a thriving monastic community, Wutai Mountain boasts more than 40 ancient monasteries, with many more built in recent years. Here, the tranquility and spiritual energy of the surroundings create a truly unique atmosphere.With our guide, we’ll visit the Nanshan Temple, an important religious site known for its serene beauty and historical significance. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore lesser-visited temples, where you can respectfully observe the monks in their daily practices.Dinner will be included.

Day 8: Wutai - Yanmenguan - Yingxian - Hanging Temple - Datong

After breakfast, we’ll journey through a scenic mountain road, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, as we make our way to Yanmen Pass, near the Mongolian border.In one of the mountain passes, we’ll visit a secluded section of the Great Wall of China, where we can take a peaceful walk away from the crowds, fully immersing ourselves in the majesty of this ancient wonder.Our journey will continue to Yingxian, a charming and picturesque village known for its remarkable wooden pagoda, an architectural masterpiece.Lunch will be included.In the afternoon, we’ll visit the astonishing Hanging Temple of Xuankong, an incredible structure built into the side of a cliff, seemingly defying gravity.As the day comes to an end, we’ll travel by coach to Datong, where you’ll have time to stroll through its historic center, admire its impressive city walls, and soak in the atmosphere of this beautifully restored ancient city.

Day 9: Datong - Jiming post - Beijing

On the outskirts of Datong, we visit the Yungang Caves, China’s most magnificent cave art complex. Dating back to the 5th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features 252 caves filled with over 51,000 intricately carved Buddhist statues, making it one of the country’s most extraordinary cultural treasures. Transfer to Datong station to board a high-speed train (included) to the town of Xuanhua.Our journey will continue by road to Jiming Post, a small, traditional Chinese settlement that has preserved its peaceful, provincial charm. Originally established as a rest stop for imperial couriers, this historic village offers a glimpse into a quieter, bygone era of China’s past.In the afternoon, we’ll travel onward to Beijing, arriving by mid-afternoon.

Day 10: Beijing

An exciting day awaits us as we explore the highlights of Beijing, the vibrant capital of China. We’ll embark on a full-day tour, discovering some of the city´s most iconic avenues. Our journey will take us to the Great Chinese Imperial Palace, better known as the Forbidden City, the most majestic architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years.We’ll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of the best-preserved imperial gardens in Beijing. From its summit, we’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. Next, we’ll stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, from where we can admire the Great National Theater, also known as the Beijing Opera House.Lunch will be included.Our journey will continue with a visit to the Summer Palace, the imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its picturesque gardens and serene lakes. In the afternoon, we’ll immerse ourselves in traditional Beijing life with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong neighborhoods. Here, we’ll experience the city´s rich cultural heritage, explore traditional shops, and visit a Siheyuan, a classic courtyard house that reflects the city´s architectural charm.We’ll then return to the hotel for an overnight stay.Note: Due to heritage protection measures and visitor safety regulations, the governing body of the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced daily visitor capacity. As a result, we cannot guarantee this visit. If access is unavailable, we’ll instead explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both of which are emblematic sites in Chinese history and culture.

Day 11: Beijing

Today’s journey will take us to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world—the Great Wall of China, at the Mutianyu section. This awe-inspiring architectural masterpiece spans over 2,000 years of history, winding through breathtaking mountain landscapes. We’ll take a cable car up and down to one of the most scenic sections, offering spectacular views of this legendary structure.On our way back to Beijing, we’ll visit the vibrant 798 Art District, a former military factory that has been transformed into a dynamic hub of contemporary art, filled with galleries, studios, and creative spaces.Our next stop will be the Temple of Heaven, one of China’s largest and most significant sacred complexes, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning architectural masterpiece was where emperors once prayed for good harvests.Before returning to the hotel, we’ll take a moment to unwind after this eventful day with a soothing foot massage, followed by a Tai Chi class—a perfect way to experience the balance and harmony of traditional Chinese culture.To bid farewell to Beijing, we’ll enjoy a lacquered duck dinner, a local culinary tradition that will leave a lasting impression.

Day 12: Beijing - Seoul

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board a flight to SEOUL. Welcome to KOREA! Transfer to your hotel and meeting with your guide.In the late afternoon, we will begin our introduction to this fascinating country. With our guide, we will head to City Hall to see this tsunami-shaped building. We will also see Deoksugung Palace, located across from City Hall, beautifully illuminated at night, allowing us to appreciate the contrast between tradition and modernity in Korea. Afterwards, we will walk to the Myeongdong district, the city’s main shopping and entertainment area, whose name means “bright tunnel.” Dinner included at a local restaurant. Return to the hotel by Seoul’s modern subway (ticket included). Overnight stay.

Day 13: Seoul

Today we include an extensive visit of approximately five hours in SEOUL. We will visit Changdeokgung Palace (entrance included), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a complex of palaces set within a large park. Afterwards, we will stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional historic neighborhood of small, well-preserved houses.We will then visit the War Memorial of Korea (entrance included), an impressive war museum that explains the conflicts experienced by Korea throughout its history, especially the Korean War, in which soldiers from many countries participated under the United Nations.Lunch is included at a local restaurant. We then continue to the Gangnam District, one of the city’s most vibrant areas, home to numerous shopping malls and entertainment venues.To conclude the day, we will stop at Lotte World Tower, an impressive 550-meter-tall building, where you will have free time to go up to the observation deck (admission not included) or to stroll through its park or luxury shopping centers.Return to the hotel and free time.

Day 14: Seoul - Suwon - Jeonju

Today, we’ll visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (entrance included), a stunning palace with over 600 years of history. We’ll have the chance to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard if it takes place at that time. Afterward, we’ll depart from Seoul and head south. Our first stop will be SUWON, the former capital of Korea, renowned for its impressive UNESCO World Heritage walls. We’ll see these remarkable fortifications and visit Hwaseong Haenggung, the summer palace (entrance included). Lunch will be included. We’ll then continue to JEONJU, where we’ll discover its fascinating historic center (Hanok Village), with its little houses, traditional shops, and art galleries.

Day 15: Jeonju - Damyang - Haeinsa - Busan

We’ll depart toward the SUNCHANG GOCHUJANG VILLAGE, located at the base of Mount Amisan, with its hanok houses and courtyards filled with clay pots called hang-a-ri. This village is home to master artisans who craft gochujang (Korean chili paste) using traditional methods. We’ll enjoy a hands-on experience learning how to make this famous sauce. Afterward, we’ll continue to DAMYANG to visit the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest (entrance included), where the paths are considered some of the most beautiful in the country, perfect for meditation and enjoying the fresh breeze. We’ll also find a variety of bamboo products, celebrated in places like the Bamboo Museum (entrance included). Lunch will be included, and we’ll taste a local specialty: rice cooked and served inside a bamboo stalk. Surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and forests, we’ll arrive at HAEINSA, one of Korea’s most important Buddhist temples (entrance included) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 802, it houses the Tripitaka, the most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures, carved on 80,000 wooden tablets. We’ll then continue to BUSAN, Korea’s second-largest city, known for its vibrant atmosphere, for accommodation.

Day 16: Busan - Fukuoka

In the morning, we depart from BUSAN to visit Haedong Yonggungsa, a 14th-century Buddhist temple located by the sea. We return to Busan and visit the United Nations Memorial Cemetery (entrance included), where people from many different countries are laid to rest. We then head to the country’s largest fish market, located next to Nampo Port. Lunch included.After lunch, transfer to the airport to board the flight (included) from Busan to FUKUOKA, JAPAN. Arrival and transfer to the hotel.

Day 17: Fukuoka - Iwakuni - Itsukushima - Hiroshima

We will travel to IWAKUNI, a small city where we’ll see its beautiful and historic Kintai-kyo Bridge. We’ll then continue to MIYAJIMA, taking a ferry to the island known as “where men and gods coexist.” There we’ll visit the Itsukushima Shrine, dedicated to the guardian of the seas and built partially over the water. You’ll have time to explore the shrine, stroll through the charming town center, and enjoy lunch.We’ll then continue on to HIROSHIMA, a city sadly known for the atomic bombing of 1945 that completely destroyed it. We’ll walk through the Peace Memorial Park, see the Atomic Bomb Dome, and visit the moving Peace Memorial Museum. Dinner included.

Day 18: Hiroshima - Matsuyama

Today, we’ll take a ferry to Shikoku Island; a pleasant two-and-a-half-hour journey that will help us understand Japan, a country made up of numerous islands. In Matsuyama, we’ll ride the cable car to visit its impressive castle. After that, we’ll visit Ishiteji, a beautiful Buddhist temple and a popular pilgrimage site. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. Later in the afternoon, we’ll include admission to Dogo Onsen, a traditional Japanese bathhouse built in the 19th century.

Day 19: Matsuyama - Kotohira - Takamatsu - Naruto - Kobe

We’ll head to Kotohira, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors and an important pilgrimage site built on Mount Zosu, accessible by climbing 785 steps. Next, in Takamatsu, we’ll visit Ritsurin, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.Afterward, in Naruto, we’ll stop at an impressive bridge that spans the sea. Here, we’ll explore its remarkable construction and walk along its glass floor to observe the powerful sea whirlpools from 45 meters above. Our scenic route will then take us across stunning bridges connecting islands over the sea. Finally, we’ll arrive in Kobe for accommodation.

Day 20: Kobe - Osaka - Mount Koya

In KOBE, we’ll visit the Earthquake Memorial Museum, which serves to honor the memory of the devastating earthquake that struck the city in 1995 and its remarkable reconstruction.We’ll then continue to OSAKA, before heading to the sacred Mount Koya, the most important center of Shingon Buddhism in JAPAN. This magical pilgrimage site is home to 120 temples and monasteries. We’ll visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a deeply spiritual place and vast cemetery set in nature with over 200,000 graves. We’ll also visit the Kongobuji Temple, originally built in 1593.We will spend the night in a Buddhist monastery, where the monks will lead us in a Zen meditation practice (Ajikan). Dinner will be included (vegetarian meal). If you wish, you can also attend the religious ceremony at the temple before breakfast.Notes: -On certain dates, the visit to the Earthquake Museum may be replaced by a visit to the Sake Museum or a trip up Kobe Tower.-Staying at the monastery is considered a highly valuable experience. The rooms are simple, without private bathrooms, and follow traditional Japanese style with tatami mats. Bathrooms are shared.-We cannot guarantee the meditation practice during peak tourist dates. Since accommodation capacity in the temples on Mount Koya is limited, in some cases, we may accommodate groups in nearby hotels (with half board included).

Day 21: Mount Koya - Kyoto

We’ll start the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple. Early in the morning, we’ll depart for Kyoto, a city that served as Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and was home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably spared from bombings during World War II, Kyoto retains its extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage. The city is also famous as the site where the Kyoto Protocol on greenhouse gas emissions was signed in 1997.Our visit will take us to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll admire the magnificent Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, explore the historic Imperial Palace, and marvel at the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” with its stunning gardens.You’ll have free time to explore before we visit Gion, a bustling traditional district renowned for its Geisha culture. Here, you’ll have additional free time to soak in the unique atmosphere.Note: If you’ve already visited Kyoto as part of your tour, our guide will provide tips and recommendations to help you explore other parts of the city on your own.

Day 22: Kyoto - Tsumago - Matsumoto - Nagano

We’ll set out for Tsumago, enjoying the charming countryside scenery along the way. This small village, known for its wooden houses, is considered one of the prettiest places in Japan. You’ll have free time to explore, and lunch will be included. Next, we’ll continue to Matsumoto, a lively tourist city where we’ll visit the impressive 16th-century castle, famously known as the “The Crow.” Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore this bustling city at your own pace. Our journey will then take us to Nagano, where we’ll spend the night

Day 23: Nagano - Monkey Park - Kusatsu - Ikaho

In NAGANO, we’ll visit Zenko-ji Temple, a famous pilgrimage site that houses Japan’s first Buddhist image. Our travelers will also take part in the Gomakuyo ceremony, a traditional ritual meant to attract good fortune.Afterwards, we’ll venture into the stunning Japanese Alps, traveling through majestic mountain scenery to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. We’ll take a walk through the forested trails, rivers, and hot springs where colonies of Japanese macaques live and bathe in the warm waters.We’ll then continue through beautiful high-mountain landscapes (reaching an altitude of 2,172 meters / 7,126 feet) and pass by semi-active volcanoes. Our next stop is KUSATSU, a charming hot-spring town whose lively central square is full of activity. We’ll take a pleasant stroll through the city park, which features open-air onsen (hot springs). Free time for lunch.Our journey continues to IKAHO, another picturesque hot-spring town. We’ll stroll through its old center, famous for its traditional stone stairways. We’ll stay overnight in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where we recommend enjoying the hot-spring baths. Traditional Japanese dinner included.Note: In autumn, depending on the availability of food in the mountains, the movement of the monkeys can be unpredictable. If the macaques do not come down to the park, it may be closed. The visit to Kusatsu may also be canceled due to weather conditions from November to April.

Day 24: Ikaho - Nikko - Tokyo

We’ll continue our journey to Nikko, a fantastic town where we’ll visit the impressive Nikko-Toshogu Temple, known for its famous “room with the sound of a dragon.” We’ll also explore the Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a serene and awe-inspiring site. Afterward, we’ll take a stroll along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues silently watch over the riverbanks. You’ll have free time to explore the town center before we head back to Tokyo, arriving at approximately 06:30 p.m.

Day 25: Tokyo

In the morning, we’ll take a long guided tour—about seven hours—through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.We’ll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You’ll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, that we will see from the bus. It is known as the busiest intersection in the world. Then we’ll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.Then we’ll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included up to Tembo Deck at 350 meters high), Japan’s tallest structure, where we’ll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.We’ll end our visit in Asakusa, where we’ll explore Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel passing by Akihabara district, the "Electric City", known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture; and Ginza district.6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.

Day 26: Tokyo

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.