Australia
Canada
USA
Luxury Tailormade Trip
Hidden Corners of Japan
from US$18673 per person (twin share)
12 Nights Trip Code: LTT07
Explore Japan's lesser-known west coast alongside Tokyo and Kyoto on a journey that blends culture, craftsmanship and coastal beauty. Read more >
Beginning in Tokyo, discover the artistry and precision behind one of Japan’s most celebrated culinary traditions during The Spirit of Sushi masterclass. In Kanazawa, enjoy a memorable evening hosted by a Geiko, complete with an elegant dinner and rare insight into this centuries-old world of entertainment and culture.
Dive deeper into rural Japan with an expert local guide in Kaga Onsen, a region consistently ranked among the country's finest hot spring destinations. Discover mountain temples, dramatic river gorges and peaceful Zen monasteries, offering moments of tranquillity far removed from modern life.
Along the coast, explore the fishing village of Ine and meet the artisans of the Kyotango Peninsula, guardians of centuries-old traditions. In Kyoto, an exclusive Insider Day reveals hidden temples and quieter corners of the city, while a hands-on Kintsugi workshop provides a fascinating introduction to the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection.
What's included
12 nights' luxury stays
Airport transfers by private vehicle
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 4 evening meals
All transfers using luxury-chartered vehicles and 1st class shinkansen
Full day private guides in Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyotango and Kyoto including entrance fees & lunch
Sushi Master Class including lunch
Exclusive Kanazawa Geiko Experience
Kintsugi Gold Leaf Workshop
Your personalised InsideJapan Info-Pack
Pocket WiFi device
What's NOT included:
Local transport (buses, subways, taxis) at any destination unless otherwise stated
Baggage handling and luggage forwarding (details will be highlighted in your Info Pack to pay locally)
Trip Highlights
- The Spirit of Sushi Masterclass
- Artisans Of The Kyotango Peninsula
- Kintsugi Gold Repair Workshop
- Kanazawa Evening with Geiko including dinner
- Insider Day: Hidden Temples of Kyoto
- Deluxe ryokan stays with private onsen
Ready to plan your trip?
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3470
What, where, when and how...
Hidden Corners of Japan - 13 Days
Hidden Corners of Japan - 13 Days - Day by Day
Hidden Corners of Japan - 13 Days - Accommodation
Hidden Corners of Japan - 13 Days - Experiences
-
Day 1-3
Meet our Insider guide to take you on a more personal and authentic visit of the city. Learn the philosophy and techniques of sushi making with a master chef in an authentic sushi setting.
Tokyo is the perfect introduction to Japan, offering an exciting mix of tradition, creativity and fast-paced city life. Away from the well-trodden tourist trail, your Insider guide will tailor the experience around your interests. Perhaps wander through the atmospheric streets of Yanaka, one of Tokyo's few surviving historic districts, browse independent shops and cafés in Nakameguro, or discover hidden shrines and local food markets tucked away from the crowds. During your stay, gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese cuisine with The Spirit of Sushi, an immersive masterclass led by an experienced sushi chef.
Suggested Accommodation: Palace Tokyo
-
Day 4-5
Travel by bullet train to Kanazawa, a beautifully preserved castle town often known as "Little Kyoto".
Explore the celebrated Kenroku-en Garden and innovative 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art before an evening with Geiko, featuring traditional entertainment and an elegant dinner experience. Having escaped much of the wartime destruction experienced by other Japanese cities, Kanazawa retains an exceptional collection of historic neighbourhoods. Wander through the atmospheric streets of Higashi Chaya and Nishi Chaya, where traditional teahouses still operate today, and explore the Nagamachi Samurai District, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japan's Edo-period past. Accompanied by a private guide, uncover these iconic sights and local favourites, gaining a deeper appreciation for one of Japan's most culturally rich destinations.
Suggested Accommodation: The Hotel Sanraku Kanazawa
-
Day 6
Travel by private car into the Kaga Onsen region, arriving in the charming hot spring town of Yamanaka Onsen.
Surrounded by forests and river gorges, it is one of Japan's most atmospheric onsen destinations. Settle into a traditional ryokan and enjoy exceptional hospitality, seasonal cuisine and restorative bathing.
Suggested Accommodation: Kayotei Ryokan
-
Day 7-8
Continue to Amanohashidate, home to one of Japan's three most celebrated scenic views.
Overlooking the famous pine-covered sandbar, your stay offers the perfect base from which to explore Kyoto by the Sea, a region renowned for its coastal beauty, traditional communities and rich artisan heritage. A highlight of your time here is meeting the artisans of the Kyotango Peninsula. You might discover the intricate mother-of-pearl inlay techniques of Tamiya Raden, visit Nippon Genshosha, a working katana forge where master swordsmiths continue the centuries-old art of Japanese sword making, or explore Kojima-an, where the traditions of Tango silk weaving continue to flourish. These personal encounters offer a fascinating insight into the craftsmanship and cultural heritage that define this under-visited corner of Japan. The exact schedule will depend on artisan availability, and your travel consultant will discuss alternative options should any scheduling conflicts arise.
Suggested Accommodation: Monjusou Ryokan
-
Day 9-11
After several days exploring Japan's lesser-known coastal landscape, next stop Kyoto. Discover hidden temples, UNESCO sites and quieter corners of the ancient capital with your insider guide. A traditional Kintsugi workshop provides insight into Japan's artistic heritage.
Kintsugi is the traditional art of repairing ceramics with gold. Rooted in Japanese philosophy, it embraces imperfections, transforming broken pieces into unique works of art while celebrating resilience and renewal. You'll also enjoy a free day to explore Kyoto at your own pace, whether visiting museums, discovering local shops, sampling the city's renowned cuisine or simply soaking up the atmosphere of Japan's ancient capital.
Suggested Accommodation: Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto
-
Day 12
Travel back to Tokyo by bullet train for one final night in Japan. Take the opportunity to revisit a favourite neighbourhood, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner or indulge in some last-minute shopping.
For those wishing to explore further, Tokyo provides the perfect extension, with its diverse neighbourhoods, world-class dining and fascinating museums. From people-watching in Harajuku to shopping for everything from luxury fashion to vintage treasures in Omotesando, the city offers endless opportunities for discovery. Whatever your interests, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Suggested Accommodation: 1 Hotel Tokyo
-
Day 1-3
Meet our Insider guide to take you on a more personal and authentic visit of the city. Learn the philosophy and techniques of sushi making with a master chef in an authentic sushi setting.
Tokyo is the perfect introduction to Japan, offering an exciting mix of tradition, creativity and fast-paced city life. Away from the well-trodden tourist trail, your Insider guide will tailor the experience around your interests. Perhaps wander through the atmospheric streets of Yanaka, one of Tokyo's few surviving historic districts, browse independent shops and cafés in Nakameguro, or discover hidden shrines and local food markets tucked away from the crowds. During your stay, gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese cuisine with The Spirit of Sushi, an immersive masterclass led by an experienced sushi chef.
Suggested Accommodation: Palace Tokyo
-
Day 4-5
Travel by bullet train to Kanazawa, a beautifully preserved castle town often known as "Little Kyoto".
Explore the celebrated Kenroku-en Garden and innovative 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art before an evening with Geiko, featuring traditional entertainment and an elegant dinner experience. Having escaped much of the wartime destruction experienced by other Japanese cities, Kanazawa retains an exceptional collection of historic neighbourhoods. Wander through the atmospheric streets of Higashi Chaya and Nishi Chaya, where traditional teahouses still operate today, and explore the Nagamachi Samurai District, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japan's Edo-period past. Accompanied by a private guide, uncover these iconic sights and local favourites, gaining a deeper appreciation for one of Japan's most culturally rich destinations.
Suggested Accommodation: The Hotel Sanraku Kanazawa
-
Day 6
Travel by private car into the Kaga Onsen region, arriving in the charming hot spring town of Yamanaka Onsen.
Surrounded by forests and river gorges, it is one of Japan's most atmospheric onsen destinations. Settle into a traditional ryokan and enjoy exceptional hospitality, seasonal cuisine and restorative bathing.
Suggested Accommodation: Kayotei Ryokan
-
Day 7-8
Continue to Amanohashidate, home to one of Japan's three most celebrated scenic views.
Overlooking the famous pine-covered sandbar, your stay offers the perfect base from which to explore Kyoto by the Sea, a region renowned for its coastal beauty, traditional communities and rich artisan heritage. A highlight of your time here is meeting the artisans of the Kyotango Peninsula. You might discover the intricate mother-of-pearl inlay techniques of Tamiya Raden, visit Nippon Genshosha, a working katana forge where master swordsmiths continue the centuries-old art of Japanese sword making, or explore Kojima-an, where the traditions of Tango silk weaving continue to flourish. These personal encounters offer a fascinating insight into the craftsmanship and cultural heritage that define this under-visited corner of Japan. The exact schedule will depend on artisan availability, and your travel consultant will discuss alternative options should any scheduling conflicts arise.
Suggested Accommodation: Monjusou Ryokan
-
Day 9-11
After several days exploring Japan's lesser-known coastal landscape, next stop Kyoto. Discover hidden temples, UNESCO sites and quieter corners of the ancient capital with your insider guide. A traditional Kintsugi workshop provides insight into Japan's artistic heritage.
Kintsugi is the traditional art of repairing ceramics with gold. Rooted in Japanese philosophy, it embraces imperfections, transforming broken pieces into unique works of art while celebrating resilience and renewal. You'll also enjoy a free day to explore Kyoto at your own pace, whether visiting museums, discovering local shops, sampling the city's renowned cuisine or simply soaking up the atmosphere of Japan's ancient capital.
Suggested Accommodation: Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto
-
Day 12
Travel back to Tokyo by bullet train for one final night in Japan. Take the opportunity to revisit a favourite neighbourhood, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner or indulge in some last-minute shopping.
For those wishing to explore further, Tokyo provides the perfect extension, with its diverse neighbourhoods, world-class dining and fascinating museums. From people-watching in Harajuku to shopping for everything from luxury fashion to vintage treasures in Omotesando, the city offers endless opportunities for discovery. Whatever your interests, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Suggested Accommodation: 1 Hotel Tokyo
Inside Japan UK office
Inside Japan US office
Inside Japan Australia office
Inside Japan - Japan office
