Japan under the Cherry Blossoms

Arrival in Osaka. You will be welcomed at the airport by an assistant who will help you reach your hotel by public transport. They will hand you your transport cards and explain in detail how the network works, to make getting around during your stay as easy as possible. Depending on your arrival time, begin your discovery of Japan's gourmet capital.

For this day of exploration in the heart of the vibrant Kansai metropolis, begin with a stroll through the gardens of Osaka Castle, where you can admire the spectacular cherry blossom. Just a short walk away, dive into the history of the city with a visit to the Osaka History Museum. Continue your discovery at the city's iconic Shinto shrine: Namba Yasaka, recognisable by its impressive lion head. End the day by sampling the unmissable flavours of local street food, between the stalls of Kuromon Ichiba Market and the luminous buzz of the Dotonbori district.

For this new day in Osaka, set off to discover Mount Yoshino, an iconic site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range". This spiritual place, steeped in history and tradition, attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors every year. But it is in spring that the mountain reveals its full splendour: blanketed with some 30,000 cherry trees in bloom, it transforms into an ocean of pink and white, offering one of the most spectacular hanami panoramas in Japan.

Leave Osaka for Kyoto, the historic cradle of Japanese culture. Start your day exploring the city center and the bustling aisles of the famous Nishiki Market. Nearby, soak in the serenity of Yasaka-jinja Shrine and its peaceful gardens. Continue your immersion by wandering the traditional streets of Gion, renowned for its wooden machiya and geishas. At sunset, head to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, where the vermilion torii gates offer a mystical, timeless atmosphere.

Begin your day in western Kyoto with a ride aboard the Sagano Romantic Train, which offers a spectacular view over the wooded gorges of the Hozu River. Back in Arashiyama, lose yourself in the soothing atmosphere of the bamboo grove before visiting Tenryu-ji Temple, whose peaceful garden blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape. Take the time to savour the traditional ambiance of the district, between quiet lanes and ancient houses. A gentle day of nature, spirituality and the charm of a preserved Kyoto.

Another free day to explore the east of Kyoto. Begin with the majestic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on the hillside, offering a breathtaking view over the city. Then descend the charming cobbled lanes of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, lined with artisan shops and traditional houses. Further north, stroll along the Philosopher's Path, a peaceful walkway bordered by cherry trees that will lead you to the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), a refined temple surrounded by zen gardens. Along the way, stop at Heian-jingu Shrine and its vast gardens for a pause in the heart of an elegant and contemplative Kyoto.

Enjoy a free day in Hakone to stroll around Lake Ashi, a crater lake of 21km in circumference nestled within the Hakone volcano. Visit Hakone Jinja Shrine, distinguished by its torii gate whose base is submerged in the lake, offering one of the most iconic views of Mount Fuji. In the evening, head to your ryokan to savour a kaiseki meal and unwind in the warm waters of the onsen.

After enjoying your final moments at your ryokan, set off to discover the Japanese megalopolis, where vibrant modernity meets green havens. Begin at the famous Shibuya Crossing, a symbol of Tokyo's energy, then head up to Yoyogi Park for a breath of nature. Just nearby, discover Meiji-jingū Shrine, one of the most sacred sites in the capital, nestled in the heart of a peaceful forest. End the day in Shinjuku, between traditional gardens, gleaming skyscrapers and lively lanes such as Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai.

For this free day, endless options await: stroll through Ueno Park to discover its museums and temples, then explore Akihabara, the vibrant capital of otaku culture and neon lights. Dive into Tokyo's historic heart in Asakusa, walking down Nakamise street to visit the ancient Sensō-ji Temple. Finally, climb the Tokyo Skytree for a spectacular 360° view of the capital, with Mount Fuji on the horizon.

Depending on your return flight time, enjoy one last free half-day in Tokyo to explore the city at your own pace, between traditional districts and effervescent modernity. Whether you choose to stroll one last time through its lively lanes or find a quiet moment in a Japanese garden, this final interlude will bring your journey to a gentle close. We hope this adventure in pursuit of the cherry blossoms has enchanted you, and that you are heading home with a heart full of unforgettable memories.