This IJT eXplorer tour of Japan commences and concludes in Kyoto, ancient capital of Japan and home to a myriad of temples, gardens and shrines as well as being a fantastic place to experience modern Japan. 

The days in between our stay in the cultural capital will be filled with the natural elements of Kyushu island, providing a vivid and powerful contrast with city life.

Kyushu island is alive with the forces of nature; Unzen bubbling, smoking lava and Mt Aso with its huge smouldering caldera are powerful reminders of the volcanic forces lying just beneath Japan's surface; Yakushima's lush green primeval forests, the inspiration for Miyazaki's animation masterpiece Princess Momonoke, a chance to wander through a natural landscape of giant cedar trees and dramatic waterfalls unchanged for centuries. On Kyushu Island you are constantly surrounded by the raw beauty of a landscape forged in the fires of the earth; a unique chance to gain an understanding of why nature has been so revered in Japan through the ages.

Through a two night stay in Nagasaki, Kyushu Elements also offers a window on Japan's commercial past. For centuries Japan's only contact with Europe was through Dejima, a reclaimed island off Nagasaki port. The first traders were the Portuguese and then the Dutch, who introduced Japan to firearms and coffee amongst many other wonders of the outside World.

An overnight in Kumamoto adds some Samurai history to the mix. The castle here is one of the best in Japan and the city also has some beautiful gardens to enjoy.

Stays in Kagoshima, a city dominated by the imposing conical form of Sakurajima, a massive active volcano sitting in the middle of the bay; Unzen, Japan's first national park, with its steaming pools helps complete your experience of Kyushu Island; a dramatic and inspiring introduction to the natural history, culture and geology of this ancient land.