Japan Tour

To the Japanese Alps

Welcome to Tokyo! Japan’s capital blends bold modern innovation with timeless tradition – skyscrapers stand beside streets lined with wooden houses and bamboo blinds, bustling roads give way to serene green parks.

Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast, embark on a private guided tour of Tokyo using public transportation. We’ll visit the Meiji Shrine, a serene site representing Japan’s ancient Shinto faith. The approach to the shrine passes through a lush forest dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who transformed Japan from a feudal society to a modern nation. Shinto weddings and festivals are often held here.

Continue to the Shibuya district, known for its towering billboards, bustling shops, and the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.

Next, explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace, residence of Japan’s Imperial Family, before heading to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts, to visit Sensoji, the city’s oldest temple. Stroll along Nakamise Street with its charming shops and cafés.

End the day with panoramic city views from Tokyo Tower.
Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast, enjoy an independent visit to TeamLab Planets, a spectacular digital art museum offering a unique multi-sensory experience. Lighting, space, and ever-changing installations create a dynamic environment, powered by 520 computers and 470 projectors.

Please bring pants that can be rolled up to the knee to avoid getting wet.

The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Overnight in Tokyo.

After breakfast, take a private 1.5-hour drive (approx. 56 miles / 90 km) to Hakone, a resort town at the foot of Mt. Fuji along Lake Ashi. This volcanic area is famous for its hot springs and wellness retreats.

With your private guide and driver, visit the Chokokunomori Open-Air Museum, located in the crater of an extinct volcano, blending nature with modern sculpture. Continue to the Museum of Modern Art, then ride the ropeway to Owakudani Valley, an active geothermal area with bubbling mud and sulfur springs, and views of Mt. Fuji when weather permits. End with a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi.

In the evening, enjoy an onsen hot spring bath and traditional dinner at your ryokan.
Overnight in Hakone at a traditional inn.

After breakfast, travel independently to the station for a 5-hour train ride to the Kiso Valley.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure.
Dinner and overnight in the Kiso Valley.

The historic Nakasendo Trail, meaning ‘path through the mountains’, once connected Kyoto and Tokyo as a vital route in the 17th century. Today, it offers a scenic walking experience through forests, mountains, and valleys.

After breakfast, set out independently by public transport to one of its most picturesque sections. Travel by train and bus to Magome, then walk approx. 5 miles (8 km) through scenic landscapes to the post town of Tsumago. Stroll its preserved streets, then continue approx. 1.8 miles (3 km) to Nagiso for the train back to the Kiso Valley.
Dinner and overnight in the Kiso Valley.

After breakfast, travel independently to the station for a scenic 4-hour train ride to Takayama, capital of the Japanese Alps, known for its preserved wooden houses, traditional markets, and seasonal festivals.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Takayama.

After breakfast, enjoy a half-day private tour with driver and guide through beautiful mountain scenery (about 1.5 hours / 56 miles / 90 km) to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its steep thatched-roof farmhouses (*gassho-zukuri*).

Stroll among the houses and visit one to see traditional interiors and crafts (self-guided visit).
Return to Takayama. Afternoon at leisure.
Overnight in Takayama

After breakfast, meet your guide for a half-day private tour by public transport. Visit the morning farmers’ market, browse local produce and crafts, see the Yatai Kaikan Museum with its elaborate festival floats, and visit a local sake brewery.

Then, travel independently to the station for a 4.5-hour train journey to Hiroshima, a vibrant city known as the first to suffer an atomic bombing.
Overnight in Hiroshima.

After breakfast, join a shared tour to Miyajima, a small island sacred to Shinto deities. Arrive by shared ferry and see the famous red torii gate that appears to float at high tide.

Visit Itsukushima Shrine, surrounded by water channels, then stroll Momiji-Dani Park, ride the ropeway up Mt. Misen for panoramic views, and return to Hiroshima.

In the afternoon, visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing.
Overnight in Hiroshima.

After breakfast, travel independently to the station for a 2-hour train ride to Kyoto, Japan’s imperial capital for over 1,000 years, rich in cultural and artistic heritage.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure.
Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, meet your guide for a private tour by public transport to Arashiyama. Visit Tenryuji Temple, the main temple of the Rinzai Zen sect, then walk through the majestic Bamboo Grove. Cross the historic Togetsukyo Bridge (508 ft / 155 m), known for local coming-of-age ceremonies.

Return to Kyoto to visit Nijo Castle, the 17th-century shogunate palace, and Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), covered in gold leaf and set beside a reflective pond.
Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, take a private guided day trip to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, where deer roam freely in the park. Visit Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha and the world’s largest wooden building, then see Kasuga Shrine.

Return to Kyoto and visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, travel independently to the station for a 3-hour train ride to Tokyo. Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.