Japanese Alps, Temples & Hot Springs

After breakfast, meet your private guide and begin exploring Tokyo's fascinating blend of ancient traditions and contemporary charm.

Your first stop is the historic Asakusa District, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most revered Buddhist temple. Wander through the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, where traditional souvenir shops and local snack stalls create a lively atmosphere.

Next, travel to the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine, nestled within a tranquil forest of over 100,000 trees. Learn about Emperor Meiji and experience one of Tokyo's most important Shinto shrines.

If time permits, continue to the stylish boulevard of Omotesando, famous for its luxury boutiques, modern architecture, and elegant tree-lined streets. After your guided tour, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Relax at your hotel or continue exploring Tokyo's vibrant neighbourhoods at your own pace.

Today offers an exciting introduction to both traditional and modern Japanese culture.

Begin your morning with an exclusive visit to a traditional Sumo Stable (Beya), where you'll witness professional wrestlers during their intense morning training session. Observe centuries-old rituals, rigorous practice routines, and gain fascinating insight into Japan's national sport while your guide explains the traditions and discipline of sumo wrestling.

Later, discover Tokyo's most vibrant entertainment districts using the city's world-famous public transportation system. Visit the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world and a symbol of modern Tokyo.

Continue to Harajuku, the birthplace of Japan's unique youth fashion and pop culture, before strolling along Takeshita Street, lined with trendy boutiques, cafés, and colorful shops.

Your final stop is the famous Akihabara Electric Town, the global capital of anime, manga, gaming, and cutting-edge electronics. Browse themed stores, discover Japanese pop culture, and experience one of Tokyo's most energetic neighbourhoods before returning to your hotel.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and meet your private driver for a comfortable transfer to Tokyo Station.

Board your scenic train journey to the charming mountain town of Takayama, changing trains at Nagoya, where a local assistant will help ensure a smooth connection. Sit back and enjoy the beautiful countryside as you travel through the Japanese Alps toward one of Japan's best-preserved historic towns.

Upon arrival in Takayama, your private driver will transfer you to your traditional Japanese Ryokan, where you'll experience authentic Japanese hospitality.

In the evening, indulge in a beautifully presented Kaiseki Dinner, a multi-course Japanese culinary experience showcasing seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. Afterwards, unwind in the peaceful surroundings of your Ryokan and enjoy a relaxing soak in the traditional Onsen (hot spring).

After breakfast, meet your private guide and begin exploring the beautifully preserved town of Takayama, often referred to as the "Little Kyoto of the Japanese Alps."

Your first stop is the Takayama Festival Float Museum, where you'll admire the elaborately decorated festival floats used during one of Japan's most spectacular annual celebrations. Learn about the rich traditions, craftsmanship, and history behind this centuries-old festival.

Continue your walk through the charming Sanmachi Suji District, a beautifully preserved merchant quarter lined with traditional wooden houses, artisan boutiques, sake breweries, cafés, and local craft shops. Stroll along its atmospheric streets while your guide shares fascinating stories about Takayama's merchant heritage.

Visit one of the town's famous Sake Breweries, where you'll sample locally produced sake crafted using the region's exceptionally pure mountain water. The remainder of the afternoon is free to continue exploring Takayama at your own pace. Browse traditional handicraft shops, sample local delicacies such as Hida Beef and Mitarashi Dango, or visit the historic Takayama Jinya.

Return to your Ryokan in the evening and enjoy another beautifully prepared traditional Kaiseki dinner, followed by a relaxing soak in the soothing natural hot springs.

After breakfast, check out from your Ryokan and begin your scenic journey towards Kanazawa.

Your first stop is the peaceful town of Hida Furukawa, renowned for its beautifully preserved canals, white-walled storehouses, historic temples, and traditional wooden architecture. Stroll through its quiet streets while learning about the town's rich woodworking heritage and centuries-old traditions.

Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawago, famous for its distinctive Gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy winter snowfall. Visit one of these traditional homes and gain fascinating insight into the lifestyle of Japan's mountain communities that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

After your guided exploration, continue by private vehicle to the historic city of Kanazawa, where you'll check in to your luxury hotel. The evening is yours to relax or enjoy Kanazawa's renowned seafood restaurants and local cuisine.

After breakfast, meet your private guide and discover why Kanazawa is considered one of Japan's best-preserved cultural cities.

Begin your day at the magnificent Kenroku-en Garden, regarded as one of Japan's Three Great Gardens. Wander through beautifully landscaped pathways, elegant bridges, peaceful ponds, and seasonal floral displays while learning about traditional Japanese garden design.

Continue to the historic Kanazawa Castle, once home to the powerful Maeda Clan. Explore the beautifully restored castle grounds and discover the city's fascinating samurai history.

Later, visit Kagayuzen Kaikan, where you'll learn about the exquisite Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing tradition, a centuries-old craft unique to Kanazawa.

Your journey continues through the beautifully preserved Nagamachi Samurai District, where narrow stone-paved streets and traditional residences offer a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. Finally, stroll through the charming Higashi Chaya District, famous for its elegant teahouses, geisha culture, and beautifully preserved wooden buildings.

Today offers an immersive introduction to two of Kanazawa's most celebrated artistic traditions.

Begin with a hands-on Gold Leaf Workshop, where you'll decorate your own lacquerware or chopsticks using genuine gold leaf. Kanazawa produces almost all of Japan's gold leaf, making this a truly unique cultural experience.

Next, discover the elegant art of Kaga Yuzen Dyeing, a traditional textile technique used to create beautifully detailed kimono fabrics. Under expert guidance, decorate your own handkerchief using this centuries-old method before taking your handcrafted creations home as memorable souvenirs.

Later, change into a traditional Japanese Kimono before participating in an authentic Tea Ceremony inside a peaceful traditional tea house. Learn the graceful rituals, etiquette, and philosophy behind one of Japan's oldest cultural traditions while enjoying freshly prepared Matcha Green Tea accompanied by delicate seasonal Japanese sweets.

Return to your hotel after an unforgettable day celebrating Japan's rich artistic and cultural heritage.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and enjoy a private transfer to the railway station for your onward journey to Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital. Travel comfortably by train, changing at Tsuruga Station, where a local assistant will help you with your connection before continuing to Kyoto.

Upon arrival, meet your private guide and begin exploring some of Kyoto's most celebrated landmarks.

Your first stop is the magnificent Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Japan's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Admire its shimmering gold-leaf exterior beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond while learning about its fascinating history and Zen Buddhist significance.

Continue to the peaceful Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan's most famous Zen rock garden. Its minimalist landscape has inspired visitors for centuries and remains one of the country's greatest examples of traditional Japanese garden design.

Next, visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of learning and scholarship. Wander through the beautiful shrine grounds before continuing to the charming Kamishichiken District, Kyoto's oldest geisha district. Stroll along its peaceful traditional streets lined with historic teahouses, wooden townhouses, and beautifully preserved architecture, offering an authentic glimpse into old Kyoto.

Return to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

After breakfast, meet your private guide for an unforgettable journey through one of Kyoto's most picturesque districts.

Travel to Arashiyama, renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and timeless cultural heritage. Begin with a leisurely walk through the world-famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create one of Japan's most iconic landscapes.

Continue to the peaceful Nonomiya Shrine, quietly nestled within the bamboo forest and steeped in centuries of history and tradition.

Next, visit the elegant Okochi Sanso Villa, once home to a famous Japanese film actor. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto's surrounding mountains.

Your final stop is the magnificent Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples. Explore its stunning gardens, tranquil ponds, and historic buildings while learning about its remarkable history dating back to the 14th century.

The remainder of the evening is free for you to explore Kyoto independently. We recommend a stroll through the atmospheric Pontocho Alley, famous for its lantern-lit streets, riverside restaurants, traditional wooden buildings, and authentic Kyoto cuisine.

Today, discover two of Japan's most treasured cultural destinations on a full-day excursion with your private guide.

Travel to the historic city of Nara, Japan's first permanent capital and home to some of the country's oldest and most significant temples.

Visit the magnificent Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the impressive Great Buddha (Daibutsu) inside the world's largest wooden building. Learn about the temple's remarkable history before continuing to the nearby Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of beautifully crafted bronze and stone lanterns lining peaceful forest pathways.

Next, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Nara Park, where hundreds of friendly Sika Deer, regarded as sacred messengers in Japanese culture, roam freely among visitors.

On your return to Kyoto, stop at the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Japan's most photographed landmarks. Walk beneath thousands of vibrant vermilion Torii Gates that wind through the forested slopes of Mount Inari, creating one of the country's most unforgettable cultural experiences.

After an inspiring day filled with history, culture, and natural beauty, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and meet your private guide for a comfortable transfer to Kyoto Station.

Board Japan's world-famous Shinkansen (Bullet Train) for a smooth and scenic journey to Odawara Station, the gateway to the beautiful Hakone region. Sit back and enjoy the impressive speed and comfort as you travel through Japan's picturesque countryside.

Upon arrival, your private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your luxurious traditional Ryokan nestled among Hakone's tranquil mountains.

Spend the remainder of the day relaxing at your ryokan, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, or enjoying the property's famous Onsen (hot spring) facilities.

In the evening, indulge in a beautifully presented traditional Kaiseki Dinner, featuring multiple courses of seasonal Japanese cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients.

After breakfast, meet your private guide and set out to discover the spectacular natural beauty of Hakone National Park.

Your journey begins aboard the famous Hakone Ropeway, offering breathtaking panoramic views over volcanic valleys, forests, and—on clear days—the majestic Mount Fuji rising above the surrounding landscape.

Continue to the fascinating Owakudani Valley, an active volcanic area known for its steaming vents, sulphur springs, and unique geothermal scenery. Here, you'll have the opportunity to taste the famous Black Eggs (Kuro Tamago), traditionally boiled in the natural hot springs and believed to bring good luck and longevity.

Next, enjoy a relaxing Lake Ashi Cruise, gliding across the peaceful waters surrounded by forested mountains and, weather permitting, magnificent views of Mount Fuji reflected in the lake.

Following your sightseeing, return to your traditional Ryokan and enjoy time to unwind in the soothing natural hot springs before another exquisite Kaiseki Dinner, completing your unforgettable Hakone experience.

After breakfast, check out from your Ryokan and bid farewell to the scenic landscapes of Hakone.

Your private driver will transfer you directly to Tokyo Haneda International Airport, enjoying a comfortable drive through Japan's beautiful countryside before arriving at the airport for your onward flight.

As your unforgettable journey through Japan comes to an end, take home wonderful memories of vibrant cities, peaceful temples, ancient traditions, breathtaking mountain scenery, authentic cultural experiences, relaxing ryokan stays, and the exceptional hospitality that makes Japan one of the world's most remarkable destinations.

We hope to welcome you back for another incredible adventure in the future.