Japan Adventure

Get to the heart of Japan on this 20-day adventure that blends vibrant cities with serene landscapes. Start in Tokyo’s neon glow before exploring the countryside with a local tea farm stay and beautiful views of Mt Fuji. Hop on a bullet train to experience Kyoto’s historical charm, then head north to Aomori’s ancient sites and Hokkaido’s hot springs, lakes and lavender fields. Meet the Ainu people in Asahikawa and sample traditional dumplings after a cooking demonstration. From sumo and sake to karaoke and onsen, this journey is a feast for the senses and a deep dive into Japan’s rich culture.

Deal Details

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Sale Ends

Dec 31, 2025

Priced From

$12,700
Get to the heart of Japan on this 20-day adventure that blends vibrant cities with serene landscapes. Start in Tokyo’s neon glow before exploring the countryside with a local tea farm stay and beautiful views of Mt Fuji. Hop on a bullet train to experience Kyoto’s historical charm, then head north to Aomori’s ancient sites and Hokkaido’s hot springs, lakes and lavender fields. Meet the Ainu people in Asahikawa and sample traditional dumplings after a cooking demonstration. From sumo and sake to karaoke and onsen, this journey is a feast for the senses and a deep dive into Japan’s rich culture.

Itinerary


Day 1: Tokyo

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan. Bursting with contemporary urban culture, Tokyo has fascinating museums, world-class shopping and backstreets stuffed with restaurants and karaoke bars. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After, follow your leader on an orientation walk and perhaps a group dinner together.
If you arrive early, there is plenty to see and explore in Tokyo on your own. Maybe check out our urban adventure tours in Tokyo, take a walk down Shinjuku’s Omoide Tokocho or ‘Memory Lane’ – a crowded alley of busy restaurants and bar stalls that's now one of the best spots to try some of Tokyo’s local fast food.

Day 2: Tokyo

Dive right into Tokyo today by exploring historic Asakusa – one of the older and more traditional parts of the city. Visit the city’s oldest temple – Senso-ji – founded almost 1400 years ago when Tokyo was nothing more than a fishing village. Browse the many interesting stalls filled with tasty treats, crafts and souvenirs that line the shopping street of Nakamise Dori. Then, hop on the metro and head to the buzzing Shibuya area. Check out one of the busiest intersections in the world before heading into a depachika (underground food hall) for a mouth-watering array of tempting Japanese treats. Next, allow the city sounds to fade away as you visit Meiji Shrine, surrounded by forest. Then it’s back into the city streets to explore the Harajuku district – the home of Japan’s quirky youth pop culture. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to spend at your leisure.

Day 3: Mishima

Leave Tokyo behind and jump on the train to Mishima – a city built on the lava flow of Mr Fuji. Thanks to an eruption several thousand years ago, the soil here is rich in nutrients and there’s an endless supply of fresh, filtered water that flows through the city like a natural irrigation system. As a result, Mishima is a garden city with many waterways running alongside residential streets. When you arrive, head to the longest suspension bridge in Japan – 400-m-long Mishima Skywalk – for an unbeatable view of Mt Fuji. You’ll then have free time to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit Mishima Shrine or wander along the waterways and through the many parks. When you’ve worked up an appetite, maybe try the city’s special charbroiled eel that’s said to have been prepped by filtered fuji water! If you’re lucky enough to visit during cherry blossom season, there’s nothing better than a picnic as the sun goes down.

Day 4: Kawane

Today, you’ll hop on a local train to Kanaya station, then transfer to the scenic train that travels through the mountains and gorges of Kawane. The ride is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season in the spring and when the colours change in autumn! This afternoon, visit a local tea farm and try your hand at tea picking, learn about how tea is properly brewed. After the tea experience, your host for the night will welcome you and take you to their home. Dinner will be a home-cooked feast using seasonal vegetables may from their garden, and your host will be able to teach you a thing or two about Japanese home cooking.

Day 5: Kyoto

After a home-cooked, Japanese-style breakfast, hop on the bus and a Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto. One of the Kyoto’s original names was Heian-kyo, which literally translates to ‘tranquility and peace capital’, and the thousands of temples, shrines and gardens make it clear why. In the afternoon, head to the Noshiki Market and stroll through ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’ for the perfect introduction to Kyoto's regional specialties – from pickled vegetables hidden beneath layers of fermented rice to delicious and ornate Kyo-wagashi (Kyoto sweets) and other local produce. As the sun goes down, continue to Gion – the city’s cultural centre and most famous geisha district. You may catch a glimpse of an elegantly attired geisha or maiko moving between teahouses here, though much of this high-class world of entertainment is still off-limits to outsiders.

Day 6: Kyoto

Today, you’ll head to one of the most photogenic spots in Kyoto – Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine. Famous for the thousands of scarlet torii (square archways) along the path, this shrine is dedicated to Inari – the god of rice. Because foxes do his bidding, there are also plenty of fox statues along the way. Then, visit a 300-year-old sake brewery – the city’s oldest continuously run brewery. Learn about their special sake-brewing techniques and the importance of rice and water before sampling some for yourself. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. If you’re in a contemplative mood, the Path of Philosophy might have what you’re after. Stroll beside a stream, beneath the dappled shade of blossoming trees, past the Zen temple Ginkaku-ji, the Temple of the Silver Pavilion and Nanzen-ji Temple. You can keep walking south to the Old Town and explore the wooden houses, or visit Kinkakuhi Temple, immortalised in Yukio Mishima’s novel ‘The Golden Pavilion’.

Day 7: Osaka

Jump back on the train this morning and head onto Osaka – Japan’s unofficial food capital. When you arrive, follow your leader on an orientation walk, then explore the city at your own pace. Meet in the evening for a street food walking tour with your group through Dotombori District and Kuromon Market and celebrate the end of this fast and furious journey in Japan with your fellow travellers.

Day 8: Tokyo

Head back to Tokyo on train today. Tonight, you’ll have a second welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet the new travellers joining your group. After, why not head out to dinner together to get to know each other.

Day 9: Aomori

Hop on a bullet train (shinkansen) this morning and head north to Aomori, where you can relax and enjoy the countryside views. When you arrive, get your bearings with a leader-led orientation walk and then enjoy a free afternoon. Maybe visit the Sannai-Maruyama Archaeological Site, which gives an insight into how prehistoric Japanese people lived, or the Aomori Museum of Art, which features an impressive blend of contemporary art and local heritage exhibitions. Seafood lovers might want to check out Aomori Nokkedon – a market where you can sample a variety of local seafood, such as sea urchin and squid, using a fun ticket-based system (simply exchange a ticket for the seafood of your choice).

Day 10: Hirosaki/ Aomori

Hop on a train this morning and head to Hirosaki for the day. One of the most famous festivals in Japan is held here every August – the Nebuta Matsuri – featuring large lantern floats of mythological warriors. You’ll see some of these floats on display in Tsugaru Neputa Village, before you make your way to Hirosaki Castle. Enjoy a tour of the feudal-era three-storey castle and hear more about its role in the annual Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival before heading back to Aomari for a free afternoon.

Day 11: Hakodate

Today you’ll make your way to Hokkaido Island via bullet train. When you arrive in Hakodate, your leader will guide you on an orientation walk, with a stop at a fish market for lunch. It’s famous for its fresh seafood and is a great spot to try some local delicacies like kaisuke (oysters) or kaisendon (seafood donburi). Continue to Goryokaku Tower for wonderful views of the national historic site Goryokaku – a star-shaped public park which was once a fort designed to modernise the island’s military defence. The evening is free for you to explore Hakodate as you wish – feel free to ask your leader for any restaurant recommendations!

Day 12: Noboribetsu

Traverse more of Hokkaido today by heading to Noboribetsu by train – a famous onsen (hot spring) town, part of the larger Shikotsu-Toya National Park. You’ll go straight to Jigokundani, literally meaning ‘Hell Valley’, this is an apt name for the volcanic activity on display! There are nine different types of onsen in Nororibetsu and they’re all powered by the geothermal activity at this volcanic crater. Tonight, you’ll stay in a ryokan hotel (traditional Japanese inn) that offers a range of onsen baths to try – the perfect chance to soak away your travel fatigue.

Day 13: Lake Shikotsu

Pass through rural Hokkaido as you travel to Shikotsuko by train and bus, where you’ll be welcomed by the sight of Lake Shikotsu – a caldera lake formed by volcanic activity. Cruise along the clear water in the afternoon in a canoe and admire the surrounding forests. Shikotsuko is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere so soak up the calm vibe on the lake. Return to another ryokan hotel this evening and take advantage once again of the relaxing hot springs. Then, tuck into a kaiseki dinner – a traditional Japanese fine dining multi-course experience.

Day 14: Asahikawa

Today you’ll journey to Asahikawa – the second largest city in Hokkaido, located in the heart of the island. It’s one of the coldest cities in Japan so make sure you layer up for your leader-led orientation walk if you’re visiting during winter. After, maybe check out Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum, where you can learn about sake-making methods and sample some of the renowned local beverage. You can also opt to walk along Japan’s first permanent pedestrian shopping street – Heiwa Dori Shopping Street – or visit Alley Furarito for some casual dining or izakaya (Japanese-style pub) options.

Day 15: Asahikawa

Start your day with a visit to the Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Museum and learn about the rich culture of Ainu people – an Indigenous group from the northern regions of Japan. This is the first Ainu museum in Hokkaido and set up back in the 30s by an Ainue family who was hoping to preserve Ainu culture through the museum, and it's still owned by the same family. Join a guided tour, and if you are lucky, it may be led by a member of the Ainu family who established the museum, and gain insight into their history and traditions. After, get familiar with Ainu food during a cooking demonstration showcasing Ainu dumplings (and then sample some for yourself!).

Day 16: Furano

Hop in a private transfer to Asahidake Ropeway – a line that climbs Mount Asahi, the tallest mountain in Hokkaido. Get all the rewards without the sweaty workout by riding the ropeway up the mountain, taking in the elevated views. After, drive to the Blue Pond – a body of water with a deep blue hue due to natural minerals – before continuing to Furano, where you’ll spend the night. Perhaps try some local delicacies like Furano wine and cheese for dinner this evening.

Day 17: Sapporo

Stop and smell the flowers with a morning visit to Tomita Farm. From late June to early August, you’ll see the expansive lavender fields that have made the farm famous in Japan and beyond – and there are plenty of other colourful crops to admire outside of those summer months. Travel by train then to Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido. Known for its winter sports scene, Sapporo is bordered by mountains and ski hills. You’ll also notice it has a grid-based street layout, which is very rare for Japan – and easy to navigate! The evening is yours to explore at our own pace – maybe stop for a Sapporo beer and miso ramen in a local restaurant.

Day 18: Otaru/ Sapporo

Head out on daytrip today to Otaru – a nearby town with a scenic canal area – and enjoy some free time roaming the streets. Maybe visit the Otaru Music Book Museum, home to 25,000 music boxes and lots of information on the city’s music box craftsmanship. If you visit during February, you might catch the Snow Light Path Festival – a winter wonderland of lanterns and ice sculptures. Head back to Sapporo for a farewell dinner of Sapporo's signature Genghis Khan roasted lamb and toast to your Japanese adventure with your group.

Day 19: Sapporo

Your trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast. You can leave at any time before the checkout time.

Departure Dates


Start DateEnd DatePrice 
Jul 6, 2025Jul 24, 2025$16,020.00
Aug 17, 2025Sep 4, 2025$15,310.00
Aug 31, 2025Sep 18, 2025$14,580.00
Sep 7, 2025Sep 25, 2025$15,600.00
Sep 14, 2025Oct 2, 2025$15,295.00
Oct 12, 2025Oct 30, 2025$15,885.00
Oct 26, 2025Nov 13, 2025$15,575.00
Nov 2, 2025Nov 20, 2025$12,700.00
Nov 9, 2025Nov 27, 2025$13,600.00
Dec 7, 2025Dec 25, 2025$13,290.00
Jan 18, 2026Feb 5, 2026$15,265.00
Mar 1, 2026Mar 19, 2026$15,185.00
Mar 15, 2026Apr 2, 2026$13,790.00
Mar 29, 2026Apr 16, 2026$14,340.00
Apr 3, 2026Apr 21, 2026$13,790.00
Apr 5, 2026Apr 23, 2026$14,890.00
May 8, 2026May 26, 2026$13,735.00
May 10, 2026May 28, 2026$14,285.00
May 17, 2026Jun 4, 2026$14,285.00
Jun 7, 2026Jun 25, 2026$13,735.00
Jun 21, 2026Jul 9, 2026$13,735.00
Jul 5, 2026Jul 23, 2026$14,600.00
Aug 1, 2026Aug 19, 2026$14,600.00
Aug 2, 2026Aug 20, 2026$14,600.00
Aug 16, 2026Sep 3, 2026$14,600.00
Aug 30, 2026Sep 17, 2026$15,185.00
Sep 27, 2026Oct 15, 2026$15,770.00
Oct 4, 2026Oct 22, 2026$15,770.00
Oct 11, 2026Oct 29, 2026$15,770.00
Oct 18, 2026Nov 5, 2026$14,600.00
Oct 25, 2026Nov 12, 2026$15,770.00
Nov 8, 2026Nov 26, 2026$14,530.00
Nov 29, 2026Dec 17, 2026$13,735.00
Dec 6, 2026Dec 24, 2026$13,735.00
Jan 17, 2027Feb 4, 2027$13,940.00
Feb 28, 2027Mar 18, 2027$13,940.00
Mar 14, 2027Apr 1, 2027$13,160.00
Mar 28, 2027Apr 15, 2027$13,160.00
Apr 2, 2027Apr 20, 2027$13,160.00
Apr 4, 2027Apr 22, 2027$13,160.00
May 7, 2027May 25, 2027$13,110.00
May 9, 2027May 27, 2027$13,110.00
May 16, 2027Jun 3, 2027$13,110.00
Jun 6, 2027Jun 24, 2027$13,110.00
Jun 20, 2027Jul 8, 2027$13,110.00
Jul 4, 2027Jul 22, 2027$13,940.00
Jul 31, 2027Aug 18, 2027$13,940.00
Aug 1, 2027Aug 19, 2027$13,940.00
Aug 15, 2027Sep 2, 2027$13,940.00
Aug 29, 2027Sep 16, 2027$13,940.00
Sep 26, 2027Oct 14, 2027$13,940.00
Oct 3, 2027Oct 21, 2027$13,940.00
Oct 10, 2027Oct 28, 2027$13,940.00
Oct 17, 2027Nov 4, 2027$13,940.00
Oct 24, 2027Nov 11, 2027$13,940.00
Nov 7, 2027Nov 25, 2027$13,335.00
Nov 28, 2027Dec 16, 2027$13,110.00
Dec 5, 2027Dec 23, 2027$13,110.00