Japan

Many people look on their trip to Japan as the trip of a lifetime - an opportunity to experience a completely different culture that is rich in traditional but sparklingly contemporary. We introduce you to the startling range of experiences available in Japan in a uniquely personal way. 

The Hidden Japan

Special Experiences

Monastery Immersion

Experience on overnight in a monastery, temple dining and morning chanting and fire ceremony in a vast monastery complex set in the high hills of Wakayama. Kôyasan is home to an active monastic center founded in the 9th century, by the priest Kûkai for the study and practice of Esoteric (tantric) Buddhism. 

1 night
Traditional Inn Stay

Stay overnight in a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) where you can experience a mulit-course kaiseki meal, hot onsen baths and sleep on futons on a tatami-matted floor. 

1 night
Benesse Art Site

Benesse Art Site on Naoshima Island (and now the two nearby islands of Teshima and Inujima) is one of the best known contemporary art installation sites in the world, where you can also stay in a museum overnight.


3 nights
Coast of San'in

Travel to the prefectures of Tottori and Shimane to enjoy windswept coastlines, deeply personal cultural visits, exquisite inns and fresh, locally sourced dining in this off-the-beaten path itinerary. 

4 nights
Dewa Mountains and Tohoku

Mt. Dewa, the mountain of rebirth, is located in the Tohoku region in the northern part of Japan’s Honshu Island is know for it’s beautiful country side and scenery.

3 nights
Nakasendo Road Hiking

Hike the old post road between Magome and Tsumago in the Kiso Valley.  Both of these delightful wooden towns are available for touring before and after your hike.  Stay at a ryokan to enhance the experience. 

1 day
Private Ceramics Introduction

Take a deeper dive into the esoteric world of Japanese ceramics with a multi-day emmersion including artist visits, expert guidance, museum and gain an understanding of the place of ceramics in Japanese life. 

5 days
Nara, the Ancient Capital

Explore the essence of Japan as it evolved out of this ancient capital from the 8th century.  The foundation of most Japanese architecture, art, history and culture is explored over two days. 

2 days

Traditional Stops

Tokyo

The former capital, built by the Almoravide dynasty in the 11th century, has attracted global travellers across centuries, from caravans on the Gold Route to famous fashion designers. 

Kyoto

The traditional and spiritual heart of Japan, we suggest no fewer than 4 nights here. 

Kanazawa

This small city on the coastline is known for the Kenroku-en Gardens, contemporary museums, great food and makes a great intermediary stop between Tokyo and Kyoto.

Hakone

Tokyo's playground, located a few hours south of the city, this area is known for it's views of Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi pirate boat ride, Tokaido Road history and local hiking. 

Hiroshima and Miyajima

The famous floating torii gates on Miyajima are widely recognized as a symbol of Japan. The island is a short ferry ride from Hiroshima and it's Peace Park memorial to the victims of WWII. 

Covid Status: Japan is currently closed to foreign travelers.

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