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Japan’s Hidden Treasures

17 Days from $16,690 USD / person

Discover classics as well as hidden gems on this comprehensive Japan cultural tour. Start your journey in Tokyo, soaking in all the sights and sounds of this futuristic metropolis on private guided tours – from the traditional neighborhood of Asakusa to the foodie central Ramen Street! Continue on to Hakone, where you can relax and rejuvenate in Japanese hot springs and explore the pristine national park. In Takayama, visit the fairytale village of Shirakawa-go before your immerse yourself in the Samurai culture and magnificent gardens of Kanazawa.

There are no fewer than 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto! Visit these magnificent gems with an experienced local expert by your side. Next, head on to tranquil Kurashiki which will enchant you with its meandering canals and warehouses-turned-museums. Complete your tour in Hiroshima, contemplating the history and heritage of Japan while you wander amid the Peace Park and museum.

As with all our Asia tours, you personalize this Japan vacation to match your interests and preferences. Our experts will be happy to create a tailor-made, seamless trip for you. Contact us for an obligation-free itinerary!

Your Vacation. Your Way.

This itinerary can be customized for you. Get in touch with our experts for your personalized vacation plan.

Ideal For

Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Sample Itinerary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 5

Tokyo
Highlights: Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, River cruise to Asakusa

Park Hotel Tokyo
The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho

5 – 7

Hakone
Highlights: View of Mt Fuji volcano, enjoy the views from a pirate ship, Natural hot springs and Onsen, Ropeway over Volcanic plains, overlooking the sulphuric fumes

Hakone Kowakien Tenyu Ryokan
Kinnotake Tonosawa Ryokan

7 – 9

Takayama
Highlights: Bi-annual Takayama Festival, Old Town, Morning Markets

Hotel Associa Takayama Resort
Hidatei Hanaougi Ryokan

9 – 11

Kanazawa
Highlights: Kenrokuen: Japan's most celebrated landscape garden, Higashi Chaya district (where Geisha's perform tea ceremonies), Samurai district

Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
The Sanraku Hotel

11 – 14

Kyoto
Highlights: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara's Buddha Statue, Geisha District, Uji Tea Plantations

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Granvia Kyoto

14 – 16

Kurashiki
Highlights: Bikan Historical Quarter, Mount Washu, Ohara Museum of Art

Ryokan Kurashiki
Ryokan Kurashiki

16 – 17

Hiroshima
Highlights: Peace Memorial, Peace Museum, Miyajima Island

Granvia Hiroshima
Hotel Intergate Hiroshima

17 – 17

Osaka
Highlights: Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, Street Food

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Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 5

4 Nights

Tokyo

Tokyo is modern Japan’s beating heart. Here austere Shinto shrines sit cheek-by-jowl with vibrant shopping centers, and glitzy high-rises tower over beautiful cherry blossom trees. The city offers everything from history and culture to shopping, entertainment and great food. If you are looking for something, chances are you will find it in Tokyo. The city’s food scene is second to none. Tokyo features local and regional Japanese cuisine as well as international cuisines of all flavors. Its chefs have more Michelin stars than any other city but even small, tucked away places are likely to serve delicious food. There are dozens of museums of all stripes. The Tokyo National Museum is spread across multiple buildings and houses the largest collection of national treasures and important cultural items in Japan. The National Museum of Western Art was designed by the famous Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier and is a world heritage site. The city is also home to the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan. Head up to the deck for stunning, panoramic views of the city.

Included activities

Traditional Tokyo by Day

For a day well spent, visit some of Tokyo’s best known landmarks with your local expert! Begin with a trip to the Asakusa locality, well-known for its “shitamachi” or old-world vibe. You can visit the Sensoji temple, a Buddhist temple believed to be Tokyo’s oldest. Adjacent to the temple you will find the Nakamise “dori” or street, where you can taste some traditional snacks if you like. Travel across town to Omotesando and after exploring the ritzy flagship stores and spectacular architecture on the main boulevard. Next, make your last stop at the famous Meiji shrine, dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Meiji. Surrounded by a forested area with 365 species of trees, the shrine is also a popular wedding venue, so don’t be surprised if you come across a bride and groom all dressed up for their big day! (Half Day; 0900 or 1400 hrs; Private Activity; Transfers by public transport; Fitness Level: Moderate)

Ramen Romance in Tokyo

Dive into delicious bowls of ramen, a dish that embraces Japan’s food culture. Accompany your guide, an enthusiastic Tokyo native and ramen enthusiast, as he uncovers Tokyo’s hidden gems! Visit award-winning local ramen shops that pride in their specialty offerings. Expect to taste 4 completely different mini bowls of steaming hot ramen at two specifically handpicked restaurants. As you sit down to eat, learn about the history of Ramen, its origins and its evolution as an iconic comfort food in Japan. You’ll soon realize that no two bowls of ramen are the same, thanks to their unique flavors, textures, and composition. As you move from one joint to the next, dig deeper into the world of ramen – discussing the trends and future of ramen, including its impact through popular culture! (Duration: 2 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Meal included: 4 mini bowls of ramen and 1 tea/coffee; Fitness level: Moderate; Please note that additional food and drinks are not included.)

Hotel options

Park Hotel Tokyo – Opt 1

Room Park Deluxe King

Meals Room Only

Style International

The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho – Opt 2

Room Club Deluxe King

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 5 – 7

2 Nights

Hakone

Hakone defines the iconic image of Japan – with the majestic backdrop of Mount Fuji as it rises out of coniferous forest covered mountainsides, lakes and hot springs (onsen). If Tokyo marks the pulsating heart of the country, Hakone is its tranquil heart, offering a peaceful stay. Centered around beautiful Lake Ashino-ko, the traditional gate (torii) of Hakone stands by its serene waters welcoming you into this sacred region. There is much to do for the more energetic traveler as well, as this is the perfect spot for hiking along the many trails marking the surrounding mountains and lakes. As you climb higher, enjoy spectacular views of the beautiful countryside spread out below. Immerse yourself in the quaint and charming world of the traditional Japanese inns and bathhouses dotting Hakone. A dip into a hot spring is the ideal way to complete your day after trekking and breathing in the views!

Included activities

Personalized Tour of Hakone

Travel along the Hakone ‘Loop’ to explore the mountain town. In the morning, meet your guide and make your way to Hakone via public transport. On reaching the town, located within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, take the ropeway from the Gora area to the Owakudani volcano crater. During the gondola ride, enjoy bird’s- eye views of the volcanic landscape comprising active, sulfuric hot springs and the characteristic black soil. In Owakudani, you could sample eggs cooked in the hot springs and believed to have healing properties. Next, hop into an elegant boat to enjoy a leisurely cruise on Lake Ashi, a caldera lake. On a clear day, you may be able to take in beautiful views of Mount Fuji. (Duration: full day; Time: 1030 hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: moderate, please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Entrance fees included; The order of the itinerary may vary; Please note that the visibility of Mount Fuji is weather dependent and the best chances of viewing it are from November to March)

Hotel options

Hakone Kowakien Tenyu Ryokan – Opt 1

Room Superior Room w/ open air bath

Meals Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)

Style Resort

Kinnotake Tonosawa Ryokan – Opt 2

Room Shizuku-with open air bath

Meals Room Only

Style Boutique

Day 7 – 9

2 Nights

Takayama

Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Takayama is an excellent option for those seeking a countryside jaunt. Commonly referred to as Hida-Takayama, you will find several opportunities to appreciate the cultural legacy of Japan. The city’s ‘old town’ is well preserved and is frequented by history aficionados throughout the year. A gateway to the hiking paradise of mountainous Hida, Takayama is home to ancestral old homes, temples and shrines. The quaint streets in the Sanmachi Suji District are charmingly picturesque with the thatched-roof houses, restaurants, sake breweries and cafés. Your trip to Takayama culminates with a visit to Hida Folk Village, a wonderful open-air museum, brimming with old storehouses, logging huts, farmhouses and the former village head’s house.

Included activities

Shirakawa-gō Village Excursion

Today you will take a guided tour with a local guide to the beautifully preserved old town of Takayama and the UNESCO site Shirakawa-go village. Start the day with a visit to the local Miyagawa Market along the Miyagawa River in the old town. Most stands sell local crafts and farm products such as vegetables, pickles and flowers. Take a walk in the district called San-machi Suji, the traditional home of Takayama merchants and sake brewers, which has been preserved in almost exactly the same state as 200 or 300 years ago. Here are inns, shops and taverns which trace their history back many generations. Visit the Takayama Jinya. Because of its valuable timber resources, the Hida Region around Takayama was put under direct control of the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1692. The Takayama Jinya served as the local government office, headed by the officials dispatched from Edo. The present building complex includes various rooms for administrative purposes, offices, kitchens, toilets, bath rooms, residential space, a court room and storehouses. It was in official use until 1969, and is now open to the public as a museum. End the morning by stopping at a sake brewery and enjoy a tasting on Japan’s national tipple. Takayama’s sake is renowned nation-wide, thanks to the clear water of the surroundings. In the afternoon reach Shirakawa-go region by bus. Your guide will show you around the village, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old. Gassho-zukkuri translates as ‘Praying Hands’, as the farmhouses’ steep thatched roofs resemble the hands of Buddhist monks pressed together in prayer, and are designed to withstand the heavy snows which fall in the region. After the visit, you will separate from your guide and continue on own to Kanazawa or back to Takayama (transportation is included but will be unaccompanied). (Full Day; Private Activity; Shared transfers (public transport); Fitness level: Easy; Please wear comfortable shoes.)

Hotel options

Hotel Associa Takayama Resort – Opt 1

Room Standard Twin Room

Meals Room Only

Style Resort

Hidatei Hanaougi Ryokan – Opt 2

Room Ichii – Standard Futon Room

Meals Room Only

Style Boutique

Day 9 – 11

2 Nights

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is perhaps best known for its 17th century castle garden Kenroku-en. It is equally well known as the neighbor of the quintessential Japanese feudal fortress, Kanazawa Castle. In addition, Kanazawa is known for its gold leaf, which you can get to know in the form of museums and craftworks as well as decoration of chopsticks and other items. A serious rival of Kyoto, this historical outlier has only recently re-emerged on the intrepid traveler’s map, as Kanazawa is now connected to Tokyo by Japan’s network of high-speed railway lineas (Shinkansen). To get an authentic feel of how feudal Japan may have been like, Kanazawa has preserved various quarters that the land’s samurai and geisha used to inhabit. Lose yourself in the beautiful marketplaces, serene temples and the many museums dotting this exquisite city!

Included activities

Treasures of Kanazawa

Discover the glorious 17th century Kenroku-en, renowned among Japan’s top three gardens. Kenroku-en includes fountains, waterfalls, bridges, stone layouts, and teahouses that enhance its appearance around the year. A sophisticated water system feeds its two ponds – Kasumigaike and Hisagoike. The centerpiece of the garden is a huge two-legged stone lantern – Kotojitoro. Walk on its meandering paths that cut across forests of cherry trees and Karasaki pine. Drop by the well-preserved Seisoanku Samurai villa next door. Later, you will also visit the unique samurai district of Nagamachi. Nomura-ke, the showstopper of this district, is a historic samurai residence with Edo Period heirloom antiques, samurai calligraphy, an lovely courtyard garden, and a tea ceremony room. See the 400-year old Japanese bayberry tree on the premises, Japanese cypress ceilings, and traditional fusuma-e paintings. (Half Day; Private Activity with Public transport; Time of the Day: 0930 or 1300 hrs; Duration: 4 hrs; Fitness level: Moderate)

Hotel options

Hotel Nikko Kanazawa – Opt 1

Room Comfort Stylish Queen (ROH)

Meals Breakfast

Style International

The Sanraku Hotel – Opt 2

Room Superior King

Meals Room Only

Style International

Day 11 – 14

3 Nights

Kyoto

Kyoto is arguably the cultural capital of Japan. It was the seat of power and home of the Japanese Emperor from the 6th to the 17th century and was largely spared from destruction during World War II. As a result, the city’s rich heritage remains mostly intact. To walk through Kyoto today is to walk through Japan’s past. It contains 2,000 religious places, including some of the most famous temples in the country. Kiyomizu-dera is a wooden temple set on a mountainside that offers fantastic views, while Ryōan-ji is renowned for its zen rock garden. Add in numerous palaces and gardens and Kyoto is home to an astonishing number of Japan’s National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Seventeen of these are also UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Kyoto Tower. The latter is the tallest building in the city and a rare modern landmark. To fuel your cultural exploration, you can sample Kyoto’s distinctive culinary traditions such as kaiseki, traditional Japanese multi-course haute cuisine.

Included activities

Highlights of Kyoto – Golden Temple, Bamboo Forest and Markets

Revel in the traditional sights, smells and sounds of feudal Japan’s best preserved city, in the company of your local guide. Visit the many UNESCO World Heritage sites dotting Kyoto, beginning with the Kinkakuji Temple, originally built for the Shogun. At his request, the Shogun’s villa was converted into a Buddhist Temple after his death. Discover the magnificent 15th century Nijo Castle with its splendidly preserved medieval gardens from Japan’s Edo period. Admire the many details and typical architectural features of the old monument, before walking down to the bustling Nishiki Market. Eat your heart out at this food street payable on spot, also known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, lined with innumerable restaurants and traditional eating houses! Try out typical local delicacies such as pickles, dried fish and sushi. Also visit the beautiful Arashiyama bamboo grove. (Full Day; Private activity & Public transport; Time: 0900 hrs; Duration: 9 hrs. Please wear comfortable walking shoes; Fitness level- Moderate; Food tasting to be paid by the guests on spot).

Hotel options

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel – Opt 1

Room Standard Room Twin

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Granvia Kyoto – Opt 2

Room Standard Twin B with view

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Day 14 – 16

2 Nights

Kurashiki

Kurashiki is a charming city in the Okayama Prefecture facing the Seto Inland Sea, and embracing the banks of Takahashi river. With a bustling modern center and an old heritage quarter, the city beautifully blends the best of the old and the new. Kurashiki’s charmingly preserved Bikan historical area boasts tastefully restored merchant quarters and warehouses of the Edo and Meiji periods. With a canal running through it, punctuated occasionally by punts, the picturesque neighborhood offers a wonderfully calm and relaxed vibe. Quaint inns, boutiques, cafes, and interesting museums that house Monet’s and Picasso’s works among others, populate the characteristic white-walled buildings. Owing to its agricultural history, Kurashiki also has a booming textile industry, especially known for production of denim, which can be witnessed at Kojima Jeans Street. A short hike up Mount Washu offers spectacular panoramas of the surrounding seascape with Seto Ohashi Bridge as its centerpiece.

Hotel options

Ryokan Kurashiki – Opt 1

Room Kuranoma (Double room)

Meals Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)

Style Boutique

Ryokan Kurashiki – Opt 2

Room Kuranoma (Double room)

Meals Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)

Style Boutique

Day 16 – 17

1 Night

Hiroshima

Hiroshima evokes powerful images and emotions attached to its war-torn past. Yet today, Hiroshima has emerged as a symbol of peace, beauty, and hope, and is a friendly, global city, with modern infrastructure, tree-lined avenues and rivers. A fair share of signature ferroconcrete, neon and bling, typical of modern Japan, vies for your attention as does much of the restored landmarks. Visit the rebuilt Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima Castle, the iconic Peace Memorial Park and its museum, for a poignant reminder of history. Satiate your yen for good food at the many local restaurants and street stalls serving Hiroshima style delicacies, such as Okonomiyaki.

Included activities

Personalized Tour of Hiroshima with Public Transport

Learn about the history of Hiroshima on this informative tour. Meet your guide at your hotel and make use of public transport to reach the first city to be devastated by an atomic bomb. Head to the Peace Memorial Park at ground zero, dedicated to those who died in the attack. Walk around the park and get a look at the memorials, statues and monuments that commemorate that fateful day in 1945. Browse the exhibits in the museum and learn about the resilience of the human spirit that led to the rebirth of the city. Afterwards, visit the 17th century Shukkeien Garden with its miniature depictions of various natural formations such as valleys, mountains and forests. Take in the traditional design features of typical Japanese gardens as you walk along the winding path that circles the pond. You could stop by the tea houses around the pond for vantage views and excellent photo opportunities before it’s time to head back. (Duration: Half Day; Starting Time: 0900/1300 hrs; Private Activity; Shared Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate; Entrance Fees Included; This tour involves use of public transport for transfers).

Hotel options

Granvia Hiroshima – Opt 1

Room Standard Double room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Hotel Intergate Hiroshima – Opt 2

Room Superior Double room

Meals Room Only

Style Boutique

Day 17 – 17

Osaka

Osaka is third largest city of Japan and has been the home of traders and merchants. It is also well-known for Japan’s oldest temple, the Shinto Sumiyoshi-taisha, and the majestic 16th century Osaka Castle. A lovely river runs through this colorful city, lending it life and distinct character. Osaka is also renowned for its pulsating nightlife and dazzling neon shopfronts and commercial streets. With mouthwatering cuisine, do try out the city’s delicious dishes, from humble noodle bowls stalls and yakitori stands to high-end sushi restaurants. Osaka’s proximity to Kansai airport and its many excellent hotels makes it a natural choice as a stopover destination.

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $16,690 USD / person

Option 2

From $20,390 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone

Not Included

Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
Tips and personal expenses
Visa and tourism fees
Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
International airfare

What Our Guests Say

Enchanting Travels did an excellent job of planning, coordinating, and executing our trip. This was our first trip with Enchanting Travels and we would definitely recommend them and we will definitely use them again. They have an outstanding staff and listened to our needs and developed a trip within our budget. While I was skeptical about having a coordinator in another country, it worked; when we needed help addressing issues, which were minor, they were on it quickly and efficiently and effectively. This is a first rate operation.

Stephen Goldman

USA

We used Enchanting Travels for our honeymoon in Japan, and the entire experience was seamless from start to finish. They handled everything, making the planning completely stress-free, even down to details like the best seats on the train if you have luggage with you and timing train arrivals to match hotel check in times. Every activity they arranged was absolutely top-tier. The local guides they booked were standout—knowledgeable, flexible, and always ready to adjust or enhance our plans. We couldn’t help but feel fortunate compared to others on group tours, as we had private guides who made us feel like VIPs throughout the trip. The app they provided was also a great tool, keeping everything organized and easily accessible. Thanks to them, our honeymoon was even more memorable than we could have imagined. Highly recommend them for any trip!

Sean Fitzgerald

USA

What a beautiful time we had in Japan! Can’t wait to go back! Shannon created the most personalized trip for my husband and myself. Everything that was important for us to see or do in Japan she made it happen! Could not ask for a better trip or experience! Emma Silk was there for us the entire journey. She even left me a tea ceremony kit to keep in our first hotel. Enchanting Travels goes above and beyond on their trips and for their customers! We highly recommend. Love, Joel and Tracy Padgett. ♥️😊

Tracy Padgett

USA

Japan was incredible. Experiencing Tokyo and Kyoto was a great balance that showcased the true beauty of this country and its culture. My itinerary had great structure and I never had a worry. I left feeling like there’s nothing more I could’ve seen or done to make my trip better and I think that’s all anyone can ask for!

Darren Waller

USA

We are truly grateful to have come across Enchanting Travels. After my husband and I tried to plan our trip ourselves…we made the right choice paying for the package we did. It was truly a wonderful experience being able to not worry about transportation and having guides (Keiko & Taku were AMAZING) teach us about the culture, history, and much more. We signed up to have more of the private transfer in Japan than public – so worth it! Everyone was on time and very prompt for every activity we were doing. We just can’t say enough and we will be going to Japan again. Thank you Enchanting Travels!

Lauren Morris

USA

Enchanting Travels did a wonderful job of curating our experience from start to finish. They took care of all the logistical headaches that come with planning a vacation. We were given the freedom to dream big, and our travel agent made those dreams a reality.

John Clark

USA

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