Japan Tours & Trips

Honshu's real treasures come alive through genuine cultural moments that define Japan's main island. Our guests love getting their hands dirty in sushi-making classes with local masters and discovering regional specialties like the premium Hida beef. The bullet train rides have become much more than transport - they're part of the experience, while nights in Takayama temples let you sleep traditionally on tatami mats. Over in Kyoto's Gion district, you can watch geishas practice their ancient arts, and the quiet bamboo forests of Arashiyama make perfect photo spots. Many visitors find their most meaningful moments at Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum, learning deeply about Japanese history, before heading to see the floating torii gate at Miyajima's Itsukushima Shrine. Spring brings cherry blossoms while autumn paints everything in rich colors - our travelers often tell us these natural displays changed how they see the world. Winter opens up the north, where you can spot those famous snow monkeys and try local sake tastings, while summer brings lively festivals and really good hiking in the Japanese Alps.

The south of Japan blends old traditions with modern life in really engaging ways. Our Tokyo food tours in Shibuya district are a big hit, where Jane shows visitors around while sharing stories behind each dish they try. Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine draws people in with its thousand vermillion gates winding up the hillside - photographers especially love capturing different angles here. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum offers powerful perspectives on history, while places like Hakone, Mount Koya and Takayama let you discover Japan beyond the main stops. You can choose between quick 8-day city tours or longer 14-day trips that take you into rural areas, mixing guided activities with time to explore on your own. The weather's most reliable from March to May and October to November, but savvy travelers often book January through March for better deals and fewer tourists. Down south, Kyushu and Shikoku really come into their own with authentic hot springs, great cycling routes like the Shimanami Kaido and a meaningful 88-temple pilgrimage path that leaves quite an impression on our visitors.

Sado Island in Central Japan really delivers on authentic cultural experiences, especially around Koninji Temple where you can fully dive into temple life. The setting is naturally gorgeous and what makes it special is how you can genuinely connect with local residents. You've got options for where to rest - from traditional tatami rooms to furnished tents if you want to feel closer to nature. Just make sure to bring insect repellent since the island's rich ecosystem means plenty of buzzing visitors during outdoor activities. Our customers keep telling us how much they love the peaceful temple grounds and real conversations with community members. For the best experience, plan your visit during spring or autumn when the weather is just right and the surroundings look incredible. The intimate tea ceremonies and meditation sessions with local monks tend to be extra special during the quieter months of May and October when there's less tourist traffic.

Dive into the cultural core of Japan in Kansai! Wander through Kyoto's historic shrines and temples, savor Osaka's vibrant street food, and chill in Nara's serene parks with friendly deer. Be sure to catch a traditional tea ceremony—it's a must!

The Kumano Kodo trail in Japan really sets itself apart - it's actually one of just two UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes in the world, with Spain's Camino de Santiago being the other. Our hikers tell us they love how the path combines physical challenge with spiritual discovery, winding through dense cedar forests and small mountain communities as it connects three major Shinto shrines. The trail ends beautifully at Nachi Taisha next to Japan's highest waterfall. Staying in temples and ryokans along the way adds something special to the experience, and there's nothing quite like soaking in a hot spring bath after a solid day of hiking.

Japan's active tours blend physical challenges with cultural experiences in really smart ways. The cycling routes through the Noto Peninsula are a favorite among our customers, taking riders past fishing villages on quiet country roads. Some travelers opt for unique activities like Kendo training with teachers who trace their lineage directly to the Samurai, while others prefer walking the old Nakasendo Way trading route between historic post towns. It's this mix of cycling, hiking and traditional martial arts that draws people looking to stay active while learning about Japan's heritage.

Take in the picturesque landscapes and remarkable sights on a guided Coach / Bus adventure of Japan. There are 24 vacation packages to choose from, that range in length from 6 days up to 16 days. The most popular month for these tours is March.

Experience Japan's fantastic landscapes by train, from bustling Tokyo to historic Kyoto. Ride the Shinkansen bullet train, enjoy views of Mount Fuji, explore idyllic Takayama, and meet the bowing deer in Nara, and indulge in local delicacies in Osaka, often referred to as "Japan's kitchen."