Japan In Depth
Japan In Depth
Japan In Depth
Japan In Depth
An immersive exploration of the art, culture, and history of Japan
Days: 16 | From: $15,990/per person
- Accommodations at best in class hotels and traditional ryokans
- Travel with an expert private guide
- Relive ancient Japan in historic Takayama, serene Kanazawa, and iconic Kyoto
- Escape to the art islands of the Seto Inland Sea, where art meets nature
Ancient samurai residences, mesmerizing art installations, the science and ritual of matcha, steaming onsens, and vibrant city lights: this ultimate Japan itinerary offers an introduction to the many facets of Japan, showcasing its rich culture and tradition. Experience the dazzling neon lights of Tokyo, explore ancient samurai towns, and visit a centuries-old sake brewery. Ride the renowned bullet train to Kyoto, explore temples, shrines, and the verdant tea hills of Uji. Arrive at the serene art islands, a worthy art pilgrimage with permanent installations blending seamlessly with the Seto Inland Sea’s breathtaking views. Head back towards Tokyo, pausing in Osaka to sample Japan's iconic street food and the onsen town of Hakone for a final soak and some world-class views of the Mt Fuji.
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Talk to one of our Asia Specialists
We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired.
We consistently receive 5 star reviews from our discerning clients.
At a glance
- Tokyo
3 nights: Tokyo highlights, ancient and modern - Takayama
1 night: Preserved Edo streets and a day trip to Shirakawa-Go - Kanazawa
2 nights: Ancient tradition, steaming onsen, and one of Japan's most beloved gardens - Kyoto
3 nights: Uncover temples and shrines down quiet streets - Naoshima
3 nights: Experience the intangible awe of the art islands - Osaka
1 night: Neon lights and some of Japan's best street food - Hakone
1 night: Relax in an onsen with epic views of Fuji
All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.
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Sample itinerary
Welcome to Tokyo!
Welcome to Tokyo! Tokyo is the largest city in the world and a clash of modern and ancient. Upon arrival at Tokyo Airport, your English-speaking transfer will greet you and assist with your transfer to the city center hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and explore independently.
Accommodations: Park Hotel Tokyo, 3 nights
Park Hotel Tokyo is located on the 25th floor and up in the Shiodome Media Tower. To offer a memorable experience in various parts of your stay, Park Hotel Tokyo maximizes the role of Japanese aesthetics and hospitality. The 273 rooms all face outward, offering spectacular panoramic views of Tokyo, including rooms on an "Artists' Floor" that all have been hand-painted by local Tokyo artists. The hotel is connected to Shiodome station, which gives guests easy access to the metro to explore the city. The hotel also boasts a premium spa (including in-room massages), a restaurant, cafe, lounge spaces, and bar.
Upgrades and alternatives: Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills, Palace Hotel Tokyo, Park Hyatt TokyoHighlights of Tokyo
Tokyo has something for everyone, from vibrant restaurants to exquisite gardens and contemporary architecture. Beyond the bustling lights, discover tranquil neighborhoods with locals immersed in daily life. Today’s introduction to Tokyo includes a bit of everything, tailored by our expert designers to create the perfect day for you.
Journey across the city with your expert guide, visiting serene palace gardens, Meiji Shrine, the vibrant Harajuku fashion district, depachika food halls, and the renowned Shibuya scramble crossing.
Undiscovered Tokyo
Explore local Tokyo. Start by visiting Asakusa, part of Tokyo’s shitamachi, showcasing narrow streets reminiscent of Edo period Tokyo. Explore Senso-Ji, a large Buddhist Temple dating from the 7th century, via Nakamise-dori. Continue to Yanaka and Nezu, exploring traditional shops, including a beloved coffee shop operating for over a hundred years. End the day by visiting a local Izakaya, a staple in Japanese life for great beer and food.
Shinkansen to Takayama
Travel by train deep into the Japanese Alps, arriving at the town of Takayama. Takayama was formally an enclave for skilled carpenters working for the imperial courts in Kyoto and Nara. It has retained much of its traditional architecture and is well-known for its crafts. Explore the preserved sanmachisuji district downtown, where Edo period buildings now house shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums. After, pay a visit to a 400-year-old sake brewery, where you’ll learn about the brewing process and have the chance to sample this iconic beverage.
Accommodations: Hidatei Hanougi
Set outside of Takayama, this 48-room hotel boasts traditional decor along with contemporary comforts. This traditional inn features natural hot springs in communal and private onsens, as well an observation lounge overlooking the surrounding town, Western and Japanese style rooms, a traditional restaurant with kaiseki-style dinners, and a moody bar.
*Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerShirakawa-Go
Visit the UNESCO site of Shirakawa-Go today. Meet your private car and travel to Shirakawa village where you can explore gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snow. Visit one of its museums before heading to the Shiroyama Viewpoint, either by shuttle or on foot.
Travel onwards towards the town of Kanazawa, stopping at your onsen hotel for the night. Settle in and have time to enjoy the onsen before indulging in a traditional kaiseki feast.
Accommodations: KAI Kaga, 2 nights
Traditional culture is celebrated at this beautiful hot spring ryokan, and can be found everywhere: from the paper crafts and dyed fabrics in the rooms, to the tableware used at dinner. Located in Yamashiro Onsen in the city of Kaga, this ryokan has 48 rooms offering a choice of Japanese or Western style beds, and all feature modern amenities such as WiFi, a TV, climate control, and traditional touches such as Japanese tea and loungewear. Guests can enjoy the peaceful bath halls, which are decorated with traditional gold and silver leaf and ceramic panels depicting seasonal motifs. There is also a replica of a 19th-century public bathhouse. Further indulge in local culture by watching nightly traditional dancing, or participating in a kaiseki dinner.
*Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerIn the Steps of Samurai
Embark on a walking tour of Kanazawa, starting at the bustling Omichi market. Used by locals and tourists alike, this colorful and bustling market is awash with fresh seafood and local produce. Continue to Kenrokuen Gardens, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens.
Explore Nagamachi, the former Samurai district of Kanazawa. The area is incredibly well preserved, and you’ll have the chance to visit restored samurai residences and stroll their beautiful gardens. Kanazawa is famous for its gold leaf technique, which has flourished here since the Edo period. Try your hand at gold leaf making with a master artisan.
Onward to Kyoto
Board the shinkansen to Kyoto, the heart and soul of traditional Japan. With 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it’s filled with temples, shrines, talented craftspeople, specialty cuisine, ancient pilgrimage trails, and much more. As in Tokyo, make sure you discuss your specific interests with your travel designer so your time here can be carefully curated. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and have time to settle in.
Accommodations: Hotel the Celestine Kyoto Gion, 3 nights
The Celestine Kyoto Gion is perfectly set in Kyoto's Gion District, and is a 10-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station. This hotel boasts a classic, contemporary design with traditional Kyoto aspects (such as tatami mats). The 157 rooms have WiFi, minibars, luxury toiletries, and are meticulously decorated with excellent attention to detail. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant which serves traditional Japanese cuisine, including tempura and sushi, as well a large peaceful bath (similar to an indoor pool), a Japanese garden, a warm communal lounge, an onsen spa, and a well-stocked bar.
*Includes: BreakfastUpgrades and alternatives: Hotel Kanra Kyoto, The Blossom Kyoto, and others
Kyoto Exploration
Journey through Kyoto on a walking tour, visiting some of the city’s most iconic sites. Your expert guide will take you along a cherry tree lined path on an immersive journey through history, from visiting Kinkaku-Ji, Nanzenji Temple, and more. Have the evening free or ask us about a cooking class or a special dining experience.
Matcha in Uji
Visit Uji, the center of green tea production in Japan. Meet a local tea farmer, see the plantations, and participate in a tea ceremony, a time-honored tradition in Japan.
Explore Byodo-in temple, a UNESCO site which is home to the Phoenix Hall — a stunning hall that is featured on the back of the 10 Yen coin. Return to Kyoto and have the evening free.
Arrive at the Art Islands
Travel to Naoshima, one of Japan’s art installation islands. Traveling by shinkansen and ferry, arrive at this serene island, nestled in the Seto Inland Sea. Naoshima is known for blending art and architecture with nature. You have two full days to explore Naoshima and the surrounding art islands, exploring contemporary art installations, museums, and iconic sculptures.
Your home for the next three nights is the Benesse House, an art installation in itself. Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, the hotel features onsite exhibitions, stunning views of the inland sea from each room, and mesmerizing modern architecture blended with its surroundings.
Accommodations: Benesse House, 3 nights
Opened at Benesse Art Site Naoshima in 1992, Benesse House is both a museum and a hotel, incorporating guest rooms and space for display of contemporary art. Four accommodation buildings at different locations and with different styles are available: guests can choose to stay within a museum, in a wooden cottage within a natural park, at a beach house, or in a modern, contemporary space deemed the "Oval." All rooms across all accommodations are meticulously designed, offer sweeping views over the stunning landscapes, and include amenities such as WiFi. In addition to the on-grounds museum, guests can enjoy a spa, lounges, a cafe, a restaurant, a nearby beach, and sprawling manicured gardens.
*Includes: Breakfast, DinnerExplore Naoshima
A day to explore Naoshima. With quiet roads and few cars, Naoshima is perfect for exploring on two wheels. Travel by bike around the island, taking in the beauty of each installation. Your guide will accompany you to visit some of the key museums and art projects around the island.
Teshima Art Island
Sail on a local ferry to the nearby art island of Teshima, home to the Teshima Art Museum and Les Archives de Coeur. Take your time as you travel by bike or foot along this quiet island, exploring local fishing villages and stopping for lunch at Shima Kitchen. Return back to Naoshima by ferry and perhaps make a visit to I Love Bath after dinner, a quirky bathhouse where you can enjoy a quick steam and sauna.
Himeji Castle and Osaka Street Food
Bid farewell to the art islands, ride the ferry back to the mainland, and hop on the shinkansen, taking a quick pause to visit the imposing Himeji Castle before arriving in Osaka. Osaka is known for having some of Japan’s best street food, dazzling neon streets, and friendly locals.
After settling into your hotel, take to the streets for a street food adventure that embodies the motto of Osaka “eat until you drop.” Your guide will steer you to the best spots for okanomiyaki, takoyaki, kushikatsu and so much more. Kanpai!
Accommodations: voco Osaka Central
This stylish, contemporary hotel is located in Osaka's Kyomachibori neighborhood. The well-appointed rooms feature local artwork, plush beds, high speed WiFi, complimentary hot drinks and snacks, a flat-screen TV, and luxe toiletries to ensure a comfortable stay. The hotel features include a gym, coffee shop, bar, and a two-story restaurant boasting Japanese and Western cuisine.
*Includes: Breakfast, DinnerViews of Mt Fuji
Bid farewell to the hustle and bustle of Osaka as you set course for Hakone. Hakone is a tranquil onsen town, renowned for being one of the best places from which to view Mt Fuji. On arrival, set out to explore Lake Ashinoke and the Hakone Shrine, with its enchanting floating Torii gate.
Arrive at your ryokan in the evening. After settling in, enjoy a soak in the onsen before changing into your yukata and indulging in a magnificent kaiseki feast.
Accommodations: Hakone Ginyu
Tucked away in the lush mountains of Hakone lies Hakone Ginyu. 'Ginyu' means a person seeking inspiration for a poem by traveling around, and this peaceful ryokan offers spectacular views of the Haya-Kawa River and Hakone Mountains. Enjoy fine touches such as local green tea upon arrival, natural materials reflecting centuries of ryokan decor, and organic well-crafted toiletries.
*Includes: Breakfast, DinnerTransfer to Tokyo and Fly Home
After a relaxing morning, continue onward to the airport for your flight home. If time allows, visit the Open Air Museum, a space that creates a harmonic balance of nature and art, before boarding the train to the airport.
Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary
Add a few days to explore Hiroshima or the rugged island of Shikoku
Choose from a selection of carefully curated lodges and hotels to ensure this trip fits your travel style and budget.
Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip!
Why Travel with Vaya?
We're TRUE specialists
We’ve not only traveled there, we’ve lived there. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former expatriates with years of experience in the region.
Uplifting service
From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.
Thoughtful travel
Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.