- Overview
- Captured moments
- Day by day
- What's included
- Travel notes
- Not included
- Your questions answered
For just a few short weeks each spring, Japan transforms into a sea of cherry blossom. Parks fill with hanami celebrations, temple gardens glow with delicate pink blooms, and streets are framed beneath flowering sakura. This is more than a beautiful time to visit. It's an opportunity to experience one of Japan's most treasured seasons as locals have celebrated it for generations.
This journey moves with the season, beginning in Kyoto where blossom-lined streets and lantern-lit evenings ease you into Japan’s cultural heart. From temple paths to riverside walks, each day builds gently, blending structure with space to take it in properly.
We travel beyond the city into landscapes shaped by the season. In Arashiyama, bamboo rises around us before the valley opens outward. In Yoshino, layers of cherry blossom stretch across the mountainside, offering a sense of scale that’s both grounding and unforgettable.
Kawaguchiko offers a complete change of scenery. Mount Fuji dominates the landscape while onsen bathing, open views and unhurried afternoons invite us to experience a quieter side of Japan.
Tokyo brings contrast. The energy returns, sharper and more immediate, yet balanced by moments of stillness. A final evening of shared food, sake and conversation brings the journey to a natural close.
This is a journey shaped by seasonality, movement, and presence. Not a checklist, but a feeling that unfolds day by day.
Limited to just 10 travellers, allowing for a relaxed, personal experience.
Designed around cherry blossom season, this itinerary explores Japan during one of its most anticipated times of year. From Kyoto's historic temples and traditional neighbourhoods to the peaceful landscapes surrounding Mount Fuji and the vibrant energy of Tokyo, each destination showcases a different side of the country as spring comes into bloom.
Travelling from west to east, we'll experience cherry blossom season through the traditions that surround it. Hanami picnics, evening illuminations and quiet garden walks are balanced with cultural experiences, remarkable landscapes and time to appreciate the season at a relaxed pace.
Every departure is timed to follow the progression of the blossoms as they move across Japan. As with all seasonal travel, timings and the order of activities may occasionally change to reflect local conditions and ensure we experience the cherry blossoms at their very best.
Itinerary
Day 01 | Kyoto
Date : 02/04/2028
First Impressions | Flavours of Spring
Experiences
Seasonal sakura food exploration • Nishiki Market tasting • Gion and Pontocho evening
Sakura inspired sweets, delicate pickles, grilled skewers, fresh seafood and handmade treats provide our first taste of the season, showcasing just how enthusiastically Japan embraces cherry blossom time. Conversations with local vendors reveal how closely the changing seasons influence daily life, while Kyoto's first blossoms begin appearing throughout the city. It's a wonderful introduction to Japan through its seasonal flavours and the people behind them.
As daylight fades, we continue into Gion and Pontocho, where lantern lit lanes, traditional teahouses and cherry blossoms beside the Kamo River create one of Kyoto's most recognisable evening scenes. We'll wander through these historic neighbourhoods before settling in for the first of many relaxed dinners together.
Travel
Airport transfer
Meals
Seasonal sakura tastings • Group welcome dinner
Accommodation
Night 1 of 5 at a four star hotel in the Gion area, where Kyoto's historic streets, traditional teahouses and many of the city's most celebrated cherry blossom locations are all within easy reach.
Day 02 | Kyoto
Date : 03/04/2028
Beneath the Blossoms | Hanami Traditions
Experiences
Traditional tea ceremony • Hanami picnic • Free time to explore • Evening yozakura experience
A traditional Japanese tea ceremony turns the simple act of making matcha green tea into a mindful art this morning. Every movement has a precise purpose, encouraging us to slow down and live completely in the present, guided by four core ideas: harmony, respect, purity and tranquillity. It's a quiet and special start to our day before we set out to explore Kyoto once again.
There's time to appreciate the scenic streets as we head over to Maruyama Park for hanami. This seasonal picnic is a centuries-old tradition where families and friends celebrate the arrival of spring. Joining locals in the park, we'll enjoy bento and other local treats as we embrace the simple pleasures of life under the blossoms.
The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace before we reunite for dinner and yozakura. As darkness falls, we take a relaxed stroll through Kyoto's evening neighbourhoods, where softly illuminated cherry trees transform familiar streets and canals into a different side of blossom season.
Meals
Breakfast • Hanami picnic • Dinner
Accommodation
Night 2 of 5 at a four star hotel in the Gion area, where Kyoto's historic streets, traditional teahouses and many of the city's most celebrated cherry blossom locations are all within easy reach.
Day 03 | Kyoto
Date : 04/04/2028
Sacred Paths | Before the City Wakes
Experiences
Fushimi Inari Taisha • Philosopher's Path • Free time to explore
Some experiences are worth setting the alarm for as we visit Fushimi Inari before the crowds. The morning sunlight kisses the thousands of vermilion torii gates, each one donated over generations as a symbol of gratitude and good fortune. Together they create one of Japan's most recognisable and memorable sights.
A relaxed breakfast follows before we continue to the Philosopher's Path. Following the canal beneath arching cherry trees, our guide shares the history of the route and the significance of sakura season as we follow the Philosopher's Path beneath hundreds of cherry trees in bloom.
Afterwards, you are welcome to continue to explore Kyoto independently or join your tour director for an accompanied walk through some of Kyoto's beautiful districts before we regroup for dinner.
Meals
Picnic breakfast • Dinner
Accommodation
Night 3 of 5 at a four star hotel in the Gion area, where Kyoto's historic streets, traditional teahouses and many of the city's most celebrated cherry blossom locations are all within easy reach.
Day 04 | Kyoto
Date : 05/04/2028
Beyond the City | Forests and Rivers
Experiences
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove • Sagano Romantic Train • Hozugawa River boat cruise
Beyond Kyoto's temples and historic streets, Arashiyama offers a different side of Kyoto, best experienced before the busiest part of the day. Home to towering bamboo, there's time to wander through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and appreciate its remarkable scale before heading to a scenic viewpoint for a picnic breakfast.
A short distance away, the Sagano Romantic Train offers a slow sightseeing journey as the route winds alongside the Hozugawa River, revealing forested slopes, rocky cliffs and valleys touched by the first colours of spring. Disembarking in Kameoka, there's time to explore before boarding a leisurely Hozugawa River boat cruise. Drifting downstream, we float gently back to Arashiyama in time for a relaxed riverside lunch.
Back in Kyoto, the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish, with the flexibility to dine independently this evening.
Meals
Scenic picnic breakfast • Riverside lunch • Dinner
Accommodation
Night 4 of 5 at a four star hotel in the Gion area, where Kyoto's historic streets, traditional teahouses and many of the city's most celebrated cherry blossom locations are all within easy reach.
Day 05 | Kyoto
Date : 06/04/2028
Timeless Traditions | Spring in Nara
Experiences
Nara Park visit • Kimono experience • Candid photo shoot • Tōdai ji Temple
A short journey transports us to Nara Park, where more than 1,000 free-roaming deer, regarded as sacred messengers of the gods for centuries, wander freely beneath the cherry blossoms. They're just as famous for politely bowing in exchange for a deer cracker as they are for calling this remarkable park home.
There's the opportunity to dress in traditional kimono for a relaxed photography session within Nara Park, with the focus on capturing natural moments beneath the blossoms. Guided by a professional photographer, the experience creates lasting memories that feel authentic, relaxed and uniquely personal.
After lunch in the park, we continue to Tōdai ji Temple, where the immense Daibutsu den houses one of Japan's most impressive sights, a 15 meter tall bronze Buddha. Before we leave, anyone feeling adventurous can test themselves against the temple's famous Pillar of Enlightenment, said to bring good luck, good health and enlightenment in the next life to those who successfully squeeze through.
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch at Nara Park • Dinner
Accommodation
Night 5 of 5 at a four star hotel in the Gion area, where Kyoto's historic streets, traditional teahouses and many of the city's most celebrated cherry blossom locations are all within easy reach.
Day 06 | Kawaguchiko
Date : 07/04/2028
Beneath the Mountain | Forest Retreat
Experiences
Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway • Free time to explore • Lake Kawaguchiko cruise
A morning aboard Japan's famous Shinkansen carries us from Kyoto to Yokohama, where our private transfer continues into the Fuji Five Lakes region. Mountain forests gradually give way to broad lakes and quiet villages as Mount Fuji comes into view.
The Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway lifts us high above Lake Kawaguchiko, where the summit reveals sweeping views across the water to the unmistakable silhouette of Mount Fuji beyond.
Back in town, there's time to enjoy Kawaguchiko at your own pace. Wander the relaxed lakeside streets, stop for coffee overlooking the water or simply enjoy the atmosphere before boarding the traditional Appare sightseeing boat for a leisurely cruise across Lake Kawaguchiko. Returning to shore, we continue to our forest retreat beneath Mount Fuji.
Travel
2½ hour train to Shin Fuji • 1 hour private transfer to Mount Fuji
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Private dinner at our mountain retreat
Accommodation
Night 1 of 2 at our signature stay. This exceptional glamping mountain retreat combines uninterrupted views of Mount Fuji with private dining, traditional onsen experiences and a peaceful setting, creating one of the most memorable stays of the journey.
Day 07 | Kawaguchiko
Date : 08/04/2028
Slow Mornings | Fuji Reflections
Experiences
Oishi Park • Fujikyuko Railway • Chureito Pagoda
The morning is yours to enjoy. Wake slowly beneath Mount Fuji, enjoy coffee on your private deck, return to the onsen or simply embrace the peaceful surroundings before we head back into the Fuji Five Lakes region.
From Oishi Park, Mount Fuji forms a spectacular backdrop to the colourful Hana Kaido flower promenade, where more than ninety varieties of seasonal blooms flourish throughout the year. During spring, tulips and cherry blossoms frame one of the region's best-known views before we board the local Fujikyuko Railway for the journey to Shimoyoshida.
A short walk brings us to the striking five-storey Chureito Pagoda, a peace memorial overlooking one of Japan's most recognisable views. With Mount Fuji rising beyond the pagoda and cherry blossoms framing the foreground, this has become one of Japan's most recognisable landscapes. Returning to Kawaguchiko, there's time to explore the town at your own pace before we gather once more beneath the trees for our final dinner at the forest retreat.
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Private dinner at our mountain retreat
Accommodation
Night 2 of 2 at our signature stay. This exceptional glamping mountain retreat combines uninterrupted views of Mount Fuji with private dining, traditional onsen experiences and a peaceful setting, creating one of the most memorable stays of the journey.
Day 08 | Tokyo
Date : 09/04/2028
Neighbourhoods | Neon Nights
Experiences
Tokyo neighbourhood discovery • Authentic sushi workshop • Tokyo skyline experience • Tokyo exploration after dark
A short transfer brings us to Tokyo, home to more than 37 million people. Despite its immense size, Tokyo feels less like one enormous city and more like a collection of distinctive neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character. We'll take a guided walk through the historic heart of Tokyo in Asakusa and Yanaka, where traditional shopfronts, peaceful temples and everyday local life reveal a gentler side of Japan's remarkable capital.
Today's lunch is our own creation as we take part in an authentic sushi workshop, discovering the culture behind one of Japan's most celebrated dishes. After visiting Tsukiji Market to source premium ingredients, we'll roll up our sleeves and shape each piece by hand using traditional Japanese tools.
There's time to explore the neighbourhood around our hotel before we head out once more. As evening falls, we'll admire Tokyo's illuminated skyline before discovering the energy of the city after dark, when neon lights and bustling streets create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Japan.
Travel
1¾ hour private transfer to Tokyo
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
Accommodation
Night 1 of 3 at a four star hotel in the Shinjuku area, where neon lit streets, tucked away alleys and countless restaurants create one of Tokyo's most exciting neighbourhoods to explore after dark.
Day 09 | Tokyo
Date : 10/04/2028
Sacred Spaces | Bold Expressions
Experiences
Meiji Shrine • Shinjuku Gyoen • Harajuku discovery • Free time to explore • Evening sumo experience
Hidden within a forest of more than 100,000 donated trees, Meiji Shrine feels worlds away from the surrounding city. Our guided walk explores the traditions of Shinto and the remarkable legacy of Emperor Meiji, whose reign helped shape modern Japan.
A short walk beyond the shrine leads us into Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where beautifully landscaped lawns, tranquil ponds and seasonal gardens provide another peaceful escape before the atmosphere changes completely in Harajuku.
Our afternoon is spent among the quirky cafés and independent boutiques that spill onto Takeshita Street and Cat Street. There's time to browse for colourful fashion, step into a Purikura photo booth or simply enjoy the neighbourhood's infectious energy before we come together for an entertaining evening of sumo, where centuries-old ritual and remarkable athleticism combine in one of Japan's most iconic traditions.
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
Accommodation
Night 2 of 3 at a four star hotel in the Shinjuku area, where neon lit streets, tucked away alleys and countless restaurants create one of Tokyo's most exciting neighbourhoods to explore after dark.
Day 10 | Tokyo
Date : 11/04/2028
Crafted Memories | Tokyo Together
Experiences
Vintage coin ring workshop • Imperial Palace • Chidorigafuchi Green Way
A vintage Japanese coin takes on a new life this morning as we transform it into a handcrafted ring. Guided through each step of the process, we'll create a one-of-a-kind keepsake to remember our journey through Japan.
The Imperial Palace, home to the Emperor of Japan and the world's oldest continuing hereditary monarchy, gives us another fascinating glimpse into the country's story. Nearby, Chidorigafuchi Green Way and Wadakura Fountain Park provide a peaceful setting for one final stroll through the capital before our farewell evening begins.
As the city lights begin to shimmer across Tokyo Bay, we'll have dinner aboard a leisurely cruise through the heart of the city. Illuminated bridges, glittering skyscrapers and the reflections of Tokyo's skyline offer a memorable setting for our farewell dinner.
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Farewell Dinner Cruise on Tokyo Bay
Accommodation
Night 3 of 3 at a four star hotel in the Shinjuku area, where neon lit streets, tucked away alleys and countless restaurants create one of Tokyo's most exciting neighbourhoods to explore after dark.
Day 11 | Tokyo
Date : 12/04/2028
Sayōnara | Farewell Japan
Our journey comes to a close this morning as we enjoy one final breakfast together in Tokyo.
Over the past eleven days, we've experienced Japan through its changing seasons, from Kyoto's historic streets and the beauty of cherry blossom season to the unforgettable landscapes of Mount Fuji and the vibrant neighbourhoods of Tokyo.
We transfer to the airport for our onward journeys. As we part ways, we hope the memories we've shared continue to inspire new adventures for years to come.
Travel
Airport transfer
Meals
Breakfast
Kyoto and seasonal traditions
- Guided exploration of Kyoto's historic districts and seasonal food culture
- Traditional Japanese tea ceremony
- Hanami picnic beneath the cherry blossoms
- Early morning visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Philosopher's Path during cherry blossom season
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Sagano Romantic Train journey
- Nishiki Market tastings and neighbourhood exploration
- Evening yozakura (illuminated cherry blossom) experience
Nara experiences
- Visit to Nara Park and its sacred deer
- Traditional kimono experience
- Professional candid photography session
- Entry to Tōdai ji Temple
Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes
- Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
- Lake Kawaguchiko Appare sightseeing cruise
- Oishi Park seasonal flower displays
- Fujikyuko Railway journey
- Chureito Pagoda viewpoint
- Natural onsen and private jacuzzi experience
Tokyo experiences
- Guided introduction to Tokyo's historic neighbourhoods
- Meiji Shrine and Shinto walking experience
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Authentic sushi making workshop
- Tokyo Tower observation experience
- Evening sumo experience
- Vintage Japanese coin ring workshop
- Imperial Palace precinct
- Farewell Dinner Cruise on Tokyo Bay
Food and dining
- 10 included breakfasts
- 6 included lunches
- 10 included dinners
- While many are shared experiences, selected evenings offer the flexibility to enjoy dinner independently if you prefer to discover somewhere of your own
- Shared experiences include:
- Group welcome dinner
- Private dinner at our mountain retreat
- Farewell Dinner Cruise on Tokyo Bay
- A selection of local restaurants showcasing regional cuisine and seasonal specialities
- Experiences ranging from street food and seasonal Japanese dishes to refined Tokyo dining
Accommodation
- 5 nights in Kyoto
- 2 nights in Fuji Five Lakes at our signature stay
- 3 nights in Tokyo
- Accommodation is minimum 4-star standard, with exceptional unrated properties chosen when they offer a more memorable experience
- All rooms are private and include en-suite bathrooms
Our signature stay
- Spend two unforgettable nights beneath Mount Fuji in an intimate forest retreat of just five luxury domes. Surrounded by woodland and with breathtaking views of Japan's most recognisable mountain, enjoy a private jacuzzi, natural onsen and peaceful setting that transforms your accommodation into one of the defining experiences of the journey
- To include this exceptional stay, we've limited departures to just ten guests. Accommodation is provided in shared glamping domes, offering a unique opportunity to experience the landscape beneath Mount Fuji. Due to the nature of the accommodation, private room upgrades are not available for this stay, and solo travellers will share with another guest of the same gender
Transport and logistics
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- Shinkansen high speed rail journey included:
- Kyoto to Shin Fuji
- Regional rail journeys and private transfers throughout Japan
- All transport between destinations, experiences, and excursions included
- Entrance fees and logistical arrangements handled throughout
Guidance and support
- Fully guided throughout by a dedicated tour leader and knowledgeable local hosts
- Cultural insight and thoughtful guidance woven throughout the journey
- Seamless coordination throughout, allowing you to remain present in the experience
The Three Tenths promise
- Maximum 12 guests • Every journey is limited to twelve guests, or fewer
- Inclusive pricing • All gratuities for guides, transport and activities are included throughout
- No "optional" up-selling • Every experience is included because we believe it belongs in the journey
- Thoughtfully paced • Structure when it matters. Freedom when it doesn't
- Hand selected stays • Every stay is personally visited before it's included because where you stay shapes how you experience a destination
Arrival and departure days
- Airport transfers are included for all guests arriving on Day 1 and departing on the final day of the journey
- Arrival day is intentionally designed with flexibility in mind, allowing time to settle into the hotel, explore the surrounding neighbourhood, or simply pause before the journey begins
- Our first shared experience takes place around midday on Day 1, allowing guests arriving earlier in the day time to comfortably transfer from the airport and settle in before meeting the group
- Hotel check in is typically available from 3pm onwards. Guests arriving earlier may store luggage with the hotel prior to check in
- Your tour host will be waiting to welcome you at the hotel on arrival day, offering assistance with check in and luggage storage where needed, along with recommendations for exploring the surrounding neighbourhood before the journey begins
- On departure day, no activities are planned beyond breakfast, allowing flexibility for onward travel arrangements
- We recommend booking outbound flights departing from midday onwards on the final day to allow comfortable transfer time to the airport
Sakura season
- Cherry blossom season usually begins across much of Japan from late March through early April, though exact bloom periods vary slightly each year depending on weather conditions
- Kyoto becomes especially atmospheric during sakura season, with riverside walkways, temple grounds, historic districts, and quiet residential streets transforming beneath the blossoms
- Hanami, the tradition of gathering beneath the cherry blossoms, becomes part of daily life throughout the city during this period
- Many seasonal foods, drinks, sweets, and limited edition sakura themed creations appear throughout spring, reflecting the highly seasonal nature of Japanese cuisine and culture
- Evening illuminations, lantern displays, and riverside cherry blossom viewings are common throughout Kyoto during peak bloom periods
- Spring weather during sakura season is generally mild and comfortable for walking, though evenings can become noticeably cooler after sunset
What to expect
- Sakura season is one of the busiest and most visually celebrated times of year in Japan, with both locals and visitors gathering throughout parks, riversides, shrines, and historic districts
- Much of the journey unfolds on foot through markets, narrow streets, temple areas, food districts, and seasonal viewing locations, often at a relaxed and unhurried pace
- Kyoto balances periods of lively seasonal energy with quieter moments of reflection, tea houses, gardens, and lantern lit alleyways
- Seasonal foods and traditions are deeply woven into daily life during spring, creating an immersive atmosphere that extends far beyond the cherry blossoms themselves
- The atmosphere throughout the journey shifts naturally between vibrant evening energy, cultural traditions, food experiences, and slower moments beside temples, rivers, and historic streets
Why this region
- Kyoto is widely regarded as one of the most atmospheric places in Japan during cherry blossom season, with centuries old temples, wooden streetscapes, and traditional neighbourhoods creating a uniquely seasonal setting
- The city’s strong connection to seasonal traditions, aesthetics, food culture, and everyday rituals makes sakura season feel immersive throughout daily life rather than confined to specific viewing sites
- Nishiki Market, Gion, Pontocho Alley, riverside pathways, and surrounding districts each reveal different sides of Kyoto during spring
- The journey has been designed to balance iconic seasonal experiences with quieter neighbourhood moments, local food culture, and slower paced exploration
- Travelling during sakura season offers insight into one of Japan’s most culturally significant and visually celebrated periods of the year
Seasonal weather
- Spring temperatures across Kyoto generally range between 8°C and 20°C / 46°F to 68°F, though evenings and early mornings can feel noticeably cooler
- Daytime conditions are typically mild and comfortable for walking, with occasional light rain showers possible during spring
- Temperatures near riversides, temple grounds, and shaded historic streets may feel cooler after sunset
- Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, and a light waterproof jacket are recommended throughout the journey
- Cherry blossom bloom timing varies slightly each year depending on seasonal weather conditions leading into spring
Visa requirements
- Visa and entry requirements vary depending on your nationality, passport, and country of residence
- Guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all passport, visa, transit, vaccination, and entry requirements for Japan
- We recommend checking official government travel advice and visa information well in advance of departure, as requirements can occasionally change without notice
- Japan may require visa applications, online pre registration, proof of onward travel, accommodation details, or minimum passport validity periods
- Your passport should generally have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of arrival, have sufficient pages for entry and exit stamps, and generally be in good condition (unless otherwise stated by local authorities)
- Once your booking is confirmed, additional guidance and supporting travel information will be provided where relevant
- Official visa information for Japan can be found here and electronic applications for visas (if required) can be found here
Practical considerations
- This journey includes moderate daily walking through markets, temple districts, historic streets, riverside pathways, and seasonal viewing areas
- Some streets and pathways in Kyoto are narrow, uneven, or crowded during peak sakura viewing periods
- Public transport and taxis may occasionally experience delays during busy blossom viewing evenings and weekends
- Certain seasonal foods, drinks, and limited edition sakura products are only available for short periods during spring
- The itinerary has been intentionally designed to balance immersive seasonal experiences with quieter cultural moments, flexibility, and comfortable pacing throughout the journey
Cultural notes
Throughout the journey, you may encounter Japanese words and traditions closely connected to cherry blossom season and spring culture. These notes offer a little context to deepen your experience.
- Sakura
- The Japanese word for cherry blossom, symbolising both beauty and impermanence within Japanese culture
- Hanami
- The traditional custom of gathering beneath blooming cherry trees to eat, drink, and celebrate the arrival of spring
- Yozakura
- Literally meaning “night sakura”, referring to the experience of viewing illuminated cherry blossoms after dark
- Matsuri
- A Japanese festival or seasonal celebration, often connected to shrines, traditions, food stalls, performances, and local community gatherings
- Wagashi
- Traditional Japanese sweets, often seasonal in appearance and flavour, commonly served with tea during spring
- Matcha
- Finely ground powdered green tea used in Japanese tea culture, ceremonies, desserts, and seasonal drinks
- Pontocho
- One of Kyoto’s historic lantern lit alleyways, known for traditional restaurants, riverside dining, and intimate evening atmosphere
- Gion
- Kyoto’s historic geisha district, recognised for preserved wooden architecture, tea houses, traditional arts, and seasonal evening atmosphere
Travel with intention
- Sakura season is a deeply meaningful and culturally significant time throughout Japan, celebrated not only for its beauty but for its connection to seasonality, gathering, and reflection
- Throughout the journey, we encourage respectful and mindful travel practices, particularly in quieter residential neighbourhoods, temples, parks, and local gathering spaces during busy blossom viewing periods
- Simple gestures such as speaking softly in quieter spaces, avoiding littering, respecting photography boundaries, and remaining aware of local customs help preserve the atmosphere and spirit of the places we visit
- Many of the locations visited during this journey are part of everyday local life rather than staged tourist environments, and travelling thoughtfully forms an important part of the experience itself
Flights and arrival
- International airfare to and from Japan: Multi city international airfare required
- Arrive: Osaka (KIX)
- Depart: Tokyo (HND) or (NRT)
Travel requirements
- Travel insurance (required for participation)
- Relevant visas where applicable (see Travel notes section)
Personal expenses and free time options
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
- Personal purchases and incidental expenses
- Optional activities during periods of free time
Japan is best experienced on foot, and we'll spend time exploring neighbourhoods, temples, gardens and parks at a relaxed pace. Expect several days with moderate walking, occasional stairs and uneven pathways, particularly at Fushimi Inari, Chureito Pagoda and Nara.
You won't need hiking experience, but a reasonable level of mobility will help you enjoy the journey comfortably. Wherever possible, we've balanced active sightseeing with slower moments, free time and carefully selected accommodation where you can truly unwind.
Our Nara kimono experience is designed as a fun opportunity rather than a formal activity. If dressing in traditional Japanese clothing isn't for you, you're welcome to continue exploring Nara Park, enjoy the cherry blossoms, spend time with the famous deer or simply relax while others take part.
Every experience on this journey is about creating memories in the way that feels most authentic to you.
Mount Fuji is famously shy.
Although we've chosen one of the best regions in Japan to experience Japan's most recognisable mountain, weather conditions ultimately decide how much of the summit is visible on any given day.
That's one of the reasons we've included two nights in the Fuji Five Lakes region rather than treating Mount Fuji as a quick photo stop. Spending longer here gives us several opportunities to enjoy different viewpoints, with each revealing a completely different perspective of the mountain.
Many itineraries treat Kyoto as "old Japan" and Tokyo as "modern Japan". We think that misses the point.
Kyoto introduces Japan's traditions through temples, gardens, tea culture and cherry blossom season, while Tokyo reveals how those traditions continue to exist alongside one of the world's most exciting modern cities.
By experiencing both, you'll discover that Japan isn't divided between old and new. It's a country where centuries of history and cutting edge innovation exist comfortably side by side.
Small groups allow us to experience Japan differently. They make it easier to move through neighbourhoods, enjoy quieter local experiences and spend more time connecting with the people and places we visit.
For this journey, the group size is also shaped by one very special stay beneath Mount Fuji. The forest retreat offers just five luxury domes, and rather than choosing different accommodation, we chose to reduce the tour size so every guest could share the same unforgettable experience.