- Overview
- Captured moments
- Day by day
- What's included
- Travel notes
- Not included
- Your questions answered
Cherry blossom season arrives quietly, then all at once. Streets soften under pale pink canopies, temples sit framed in bloom, and the rhythm of daily life shifts to meet the moment. This is not sightseeing. It’s an immersion into a season that is fleeting, delicate, and deeply felt.
Experience highlights
- Walk beneath cherry blossoms at their peak in Kyoto
- Share a traditional hanami picnic under the trees
- Journey to Yoshino, Japan’s most iconic sakura mountain
- Relax in a Japanese onsen overlooking nature
- Hands-on sushi experience and guided sake tasting
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.
The pace softens further at Kawaguchiko, where Mount Fuji sits quietly in the background and time slows by the water. Onsen bathing, open views, and unhurried afternoons create space to settle into the experience fully.
Tokyo brings contrast. The energy returns, sharper and more immediate, but balanced with moments of stillness woven through it. 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 to keep the experience intimate.
This journey unfolds with the rhythm of cherry blossom season, moving through Japan as it comes into bloom. Days are shaped by the season itself, from the cultural depth of Kyoto to the open landscape of Kawaguchiko, and into the layered energy of Tokyo.
As the journey progresses, moments of movement are balanced with time to slow down and take it in. Early mornings in stillness, afternoons spent beneath the blossoms, and evenings that shift between quiet reflection and shared experience create a natural flow between activity and pause.
Our route follows the progression of the season, allowing us to experience sakura at its peak across different regions. As with all seasonal journeys, timing may shift slightly to honour local conditions and ensure each moment is experienced at its best.
Itinerary
Day 01 | Kyoto
Date : 01/04/2027
First Impressions | Flavours of Spring
Highlights
Seasonal sakura food exploration • Nishiki Market tasting • Gion and Pontocho evening • Welcome Dinner
Along the way
Kyoto introduces spring through its food, neighbourhoods and everyday traditions as we wander through Nishiki Market. Sakura inspired sweets, delicate pickles, grilled skewers, fresh seafood and handmade treats offer our first taste of the season, revealing 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. Rather than rushing between famous landmarks, today is about discovering Japan through its seasonal flavours and the people behind them.
As daylight fades, we continue into Gion and Pontocho, where lantern lit lanes and cherry blossoms beside the river create the setting for our Welcome Dinner and our first evening together.
Behind the design
Arrival days are designed to land softly. Guests often arrive at different times after long international journeys, so rather than launching straight into sightseeing, our Three Tenths Signature Welcome brings everyone together through local food in a relaxed and informal setting. It creates natural conversation, allowing strangers to become travelling companions before the journey truly begins.Kyoto's seasonal cafés, markets and spring flavours reveal that cherry blossom season is celebrated as much through everyday life as it is beneath the blossoms themselves.
Inclusions
Airport Transfer • Seasonal sakura food exploration • Nishiki Market tasting • Gion and Pontocho evening • Welcome Dinner • Accommodation in Kyoto
Day 02 | Kyoto
Date : 02/04/2027
Beneath the Blossoms | Hanami Traditions
Highlights
Traditional tea ceremony • Hanami picnic • Time to explore Kyoto • Evening yozakura experience
Along the way
Every carefully considered movement of a traditional tea ceremony reflects the Japanese values of harmony, respect and presence. Rather than simply observing the ritual, it's an opportunity to slow down and experience a tradition that has shaped Japanese culture for centuries.
Lunch is enjoyed beneath the cherry blossoms as we experience hanami, the centuries old tradition of gathering with family and friends to celebrate the arrival of spring. Our seasonal picnic features carefully prepared bento and local delicacies, inviting us to experience cherry blossom season the way Japan does.
There's time to enjoy Kyoto at your own pace before we reunite for yozakura. As darkness falls, we take a relaxed stroll through Kyoto's evening neighbourhoods, where softly illuminated cherry trees transform familiar streets and canals, revealing a completely different side of blossom season.
Behind the design
Hanami and yozakura are two of Japan's most cherished spring traditions, yet many visitors only experience one. We've chosen to include both, revealing how cherry blossom season transforms from the relaxed celebrations of the day into the magical atmosphere of illuminated evenings, each one inviting it's own perspective on Japan's most celebrated season.
Inclusions
Breakfast · Traditional tea ceremony · Hanami picnic · Evening yozakura experience · Dinner · Accommodation in Kyoto
Day 03 | Kyoto
Date : 03/04/2027
Sacred Paths | Before the City Wakes
Highlights
Early morning visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha • Picnic breakfast • Philosopher's Path • Time to explore Kyoto
Along the way
Thousands of vermilion torii gates wind through the forest at Fushimi Inari Taisha, each one donated over generations as a symbol of gratitude and good fortune. Arriving before the crowds, our guide introduces the traditions and symbolism that continue to shape one of Japan's most recognisable shrines.
A relaxed picnic breakfast follows before we continue to the Philosopher's Path. Following the canal beneath arching cherry trees, there is time to enjoy one of Kyoto's most celebrated spring walks as petals drift gently across the water.
There's time to enjoy Kyoto at your own pace before we gather once again for dinner, reflecting on another day immersed in Japan's remarkable cherry blossom season.
Behind the design
Some experiences are worth setting the alarm for. Visiting Fushimi Inari before the crowds allows us to experience one of Japan's busiest landmarks at its most peaceful, making the early start more than worthwhile before enjoying a slower afternoon in Kyoto.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Guided visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha • Picnic breakfast • Philosopher's Path • Dinner • Accommodation in Kyoto
Day 04 | Kyoto
Date : 04/04/2027
Beyond the City | Forests and Rivers
Highlights
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove • Sagano Romantic Train
Along the way
Beyond Kyoto's temples and historic streets, a greener side of spring begins to unfold. We arrive at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before the busiest part of the day, experiencing one of Japan's most recognisable landscapes at its quietest, with time to wander beneath the towering bamboo and appreciate its remarkable scale.
From here, we board the Sagano Romantic Train for one of Japan's most scenic rail journeys. Beyond the carriage windows the route winds alongside the Hozugawa River, revealing forested slopes, rocky cliffs and valleys touched by the first colours of spring.
We return to Kyoto with time to unwind before gathering for dinner, ending the day together after exploring one of Japan's most beautiful spring landscapes.
Behind the design
Cherry blossom isn't only experienced on foot. We've included the Sagano Romantic Train because it provides one of Japan's most beautiful ways to experience spring, revealing forests, rivers and blossom from a perspective that's every bit as memorable as the destinations themselves.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove • Sagano Romantic Train • Dinner • Accommodation in Kyoto
Day 05 | Kyoto
Date : 05/04/2027
Timeless Traditions | Spring in Nara
Highlights
Nara Park visit • Kimono experience • Candid photo shoot • Tōdai ji Temple
Along the way
A short train 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. Rather than formal portraits, the focus is on capturing natural moments beneath the blossoms, creating photographs 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 metre 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.
Returning to Kyoto later this afternoon, there's time to enjoy one final evening dinner in the city before tomorrow's journey into Japan's mountain landscapes.
Behind the design
Travel isn't only about the places we visit, but also the memories we create within them. We've included a traditional kimono experience and candid photography session because they encourage a little fun, a little play, and the chance to take home photographs that capture you as part of Japan's cherry blossom season, rather than simply standing in front of it.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Return train to Nara • Kimono experience • Professional photography session • Lunch • Entry to Tōdai ji Temple • Dinner • Accommodation in Kyoto
Day 06 | Kawaguchiko
Date : 06/04/2027
Beneath the Mountain | Forest Retreat
Highlights
Shinkansen journey • Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway • Kawaguchiko exploration • Lake Kawaguchiko cruise • Luxury forest retreat
Along the way
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, revealing another side of Japan's spring landscape and Japan's most recognisable peak.
The Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway lifts us high above Lake Kawaguchiko, with sweeping views unfolding across the lake and surrounding landscape with every metre travelled. From the summit, breathtaking panoramic views stretch across Lake Kawaguchiko to the unmistakable silhouette of Mount Fuji rising beyond in all its breathtaking grandeur.
Returning to town, there's time to enjoy Kawaguchiko at your own pace. Wander the relaxed lakeside streets, browse artisan stores, 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.
Behind the design
Some places are simply too special to compromise. From the moment we discovered this forest retreat, it became a non negotiable part of the journey. We even reduced the tour size to just ten guests so everyone could experience one of its five luxury domes. With private dining, an onsen on site and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, this isn't simply accommodation, it's an experience we couldn't imagine leaving out.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Shinkansen journey to Kawaguchiko • Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway • Lunch • Lake Kawaguchiko cruise • Onsen or private jacuzzi experience • Dinner • Luxury forest retreat stay in Kawaguchiko
Day 07 | Kawaguchiko
Date : 07/04/2027
Slow Mornings | Fuji Reflections
Highlights
Morning at leisure • Oishi Park • Fujikyuko Railway • Chureito Pagoda
Along the way
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 rhythm of the forest before we head back into the Fuji Five Lakes region.
Oishi Park reveals another beautiful perspective of Mount Fuji, where the colourful Hana Kaido flower promenade showcases more than ninety varieties of seasonal blooms throughout the year. During spring, tulips, cherry blossoms and vibrant flower displays create one of the region's most celebrated settings 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 iconic views. With Mount Fuji rising beyond the pagoda and cherry blossoms completing the scene, it's easy to understand why this panorama has become synonymous with Japan itself. 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.
Behind the design
Mount Fuji is one of the world's most photographed landscapes, yet every viewpoint reveals something different. We've chosen experiences across the region rather than relying on a single iconic photo stop, allowing you to appreciate Japan's most recognisable mountain from several unforgettable perspectives.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Oishi Park • Fujikyuko Railway • Chureito Pagoda • Dinner • Luxury forest retreat stay in Kawaguchiko
Day 08 | Tokyo
Date : 08/04/2027
Neighbourhoods | Neon Nights
Highlights
Tokyo neighbourhood discovery • Authentic sushi workshop • Time to explore • Tokyo skyline experience • Dinner • Tokyo exploration after dark
Along the way
Home to more than 37 million people, Greater Tokyo is the world's largest metropolitan area. Yet rather than feeling like one enormous city, it's a collection of distinctive neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character. Our first introduction explores the historic districts of Asakusa and Yanaka, where traditional shopfronts, peaceful temples and everyday local life reveal a gentler side of Japan's remarkable capital.
An authentic sushi making workshop invites us to roll up our sleeves before there's time to enjoy the neighbourhood at your own pace. As evening falls, Tokyo reveals another side of its personality as we admire the illuminated skyline before dinner and our first exploration of the city after dark.
Behind the design
Tokyo is too diverse to appreciate all at once. Rather than rushing between famous landmarks, we've chosen to introduce the city neighbourhood by neighbourhood, beginning with the historic heart of Tokyo before gradually revealing its modern energy after dark. It creates a gentler introduction to one of the world's greatest cities while leaving plenty more to discover tomorrow.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Transport to Tokyo • Guided exploration of Asakusa and Yanaka • Authentic sushi making workshop • Tokyo Tower admission • Dinner • Tokyo by night experience • Accommodation in Tokyo
Day 09 | Tokyo
Date : 09/04/2027
Sacred Spaces | Bold Expressions
Highlights
Meiji Shrine • Shinjuku Gyoen • Harajuku discovery • Time to explore Tokyo • Evening sumo experience
Along the way
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 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.
Colourful fashion, quirky cafés and creative culture spill onto Takeshita Street and Cat Street, with time to browse, step into a Purikura photo booth or simply enjoy the neighbourhood's infectious energy before we come together for an unforgettable evening of sumo, where centuries old ritual and remarkable athleticism combine in one of Japan's most iconic traditions.
Behind the design
Tokyo is a city of remarkable contrasts. We've deliberately paired places of quiet reflection with neighbourhoods full of youthful creativity before ending the day with one of Japan's oldest sporting traditions. Together, they reveal a side of Tokyo that's impossible to appreciate through landmarks alone.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Guided Meiji Shrine walking tour • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden • Lunch • Harajuku exploration • Evening sumo experience with dinner • Accommodation in Tokyo
Day 10 | Tokyo
Date : 10/04/2027
Crafted Memories | Tokyo Together
Highlights
Vintage coin ring workshop • Imperial Palace • Chidorigafuchi Green Way • Farewell dinner cruise
Along the way
A vintage Japanese coin takes on a new life this morning as it's transformed into a handcrafted ring. Guided through each step of the process, you'll create a one of a kind keepsake that's every bit as unique as the journey itself.
The Imperial Palace, home to the Emperor of Japan and the world's oldest continuing hereditary monarchy, offers 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 evening arrives.
As the city lights begin to shimmer across Tokyo Bay, our Farewell Dinner unfolds aboard a leisurely cruise through the heart of the city. Illuminated bridges, glittering skyscrapers and the reflections of Tokyo's skyline provide a memorable final perspective as we celebrate the journey we've shared together.
Behind the design
We've chosen experiences that leave you with more than photographs. Creating your own ring offers a lasting reminder of your time in Japan, while our Farewell Dinner on Tokyo Bay brings everyone together one final time to celebrate the memories, friendships and moments that have shaped the journey from Kyoto to Tokyo.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Vintage coin ring workshop • Guided Imperial Palace precinct exploration • Chidorigafuchi Green Way • Lunch • Wadakura Fountain Park • Farewell dinner cruise • Accommodation in Tokyo
Day 11 | Tokyo
Date : 11/04/2027
Sayōnara | Until We Meet Again
Highlights
Farewell breakfast
Our journey comes to a gentle close this morning as we gather for one final breakfast together before departures begin. There's time for one last conversation, another cup of coffee and a final opportunity to reflect on the cherry blossoms, mountain landscapes, timeless traditions and warm hospitality that have shaped our time in Japan.
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 hope you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable country, its timeless traditions and extraordinary attention to detail.
When the time comes, we transfer to the airport for our onward journeys. While our time together may be coming to an end, we hope the experiences we've shared continue to inspire new adventures for years to come.
Inclusions
Breakfast • Airport transfer
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
- Return rail journey from Kyoto
Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes
- Shinkansen journey to Yokohama
- 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
- 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 3-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 Osaka
- 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
Our accommodation
- Our accommodation throughout the journey has been carefully selected to reflect both the energy of Kyoto during sakura season and the quieter rhythm of nearby historic districts and traditional neighbourhoods
- In Kyoto, accommodation is positioned to allow easy access to markets, riverside walks, local restaurants, temples, and evening exploration during cherry blossom season
- The properties selected balance comfort, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place, allowing space to slow down between days of exploration and seasonal festivities
- Across all locations, properties have been chosen for accessibility, warmth, authenticity, and ease throughout the journey
- Accommodation at Mount Fuji is provided in shared glamping domes. Due to the unique nature of the accommodation, private room upgrades are not available for this stay. Solo travellers will be paired with another guest of the same gender.
- All other stays are in private en suite rooms, providing comfort and space to rest throughout the journey
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 in the late afternoon 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 3:00pm 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.