Menu Inside Japan Tours
About Us
[email protected] Tel: + 44 117 244 3380(Bristol, UK)
Make an Enquiry
  • Download a brochure
  • About us
    • About Us
    • Brochures
    • Contact Us
    • Accreditation
    • Sustainability
    • Partner Testimonials
    • Press Coverage
    • Company News
    • Jobs at InsideJapan
    • Travel Agents
    • Client Log In
  • Reviews
    • All Trip Reviews
    • Independent Reviews
  • Experiences
    • All Experiences
    • Insider Experiences
  • Trip Themes
    • All Trip Themes
    • Honeymoons
    • Family
    • Skiing & Winter Sports
    • Diving
    • Active
    • Accessible Travel
    • Photography Tours
  • Useful Info
    • Destinations in Japan
    • Travel Tips
    • FAQs
    • Japanese Culture
    • When To Travel
    • Japan Interactive Map
  • Destinations in Japan
  • Travel Tips
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Brochures
    • Contact Us
    • Accreditation
    • Sustainability
    • Partner Testimonials
    • Press Coverage
    • Company News
    • Jobs at InsideJapan
    • Travel Agents
    • Tailormade Groups
    • Client Log In
  • Japanese Culture
  • Contact
  • Blog
  • Small Group Tours
  • Self-Guided Adventures
  • Exclusive Private Journeys
  • Australia Flag flag Australia
  • USA Flag flag USA

Not in the UK?

You can change your location here.

    Japan is open to tourists! Find out how to visit.

    • Home
    • Self Guided Japan Holidays
    • Japan Arts Trail
    Print

    Search for a Trip

    Recently Viewed

    • Japan Arts Trail
      Japan Arts Trail (Deluxe)
      Self-Guided Adventures

      X

    Download your brochure today

    Explore our latest brochure for Japan holiday inspiration

    • Download a copy
    HOW TO BOOK Make an Enquiry

    Self-Guided Adventure

    Deluxe
    Tailor-made
    • Also available in:
      • Classic Tailor-made
      • Superior Tailor-made
      • Deluxe Tailor-made
      • Compare Styles

    Japan Arts Trail

    14 Nights: from US$13897 per person (twin share) Trip Code: JARTD

    Discover world-class museums and galleries all across Japan, from city skyscrapers to rural towns where art has brought a new and unique vibrancy to otherwise forgotten places. This trip will allow you to visit Japan's classic sights as well as some real artistic treasures. Read more >

    With this itinerary you will travel from Tokyo to Kyoto via Mount Fuji before returning to the capital by way of Naoshima "Art Island" in the Seto Inland Sea. Exploring some of the best museums and art exhibitions both large and small, you will see Japan through the eyes of its artists whilst discovering the country and culture that have shaped their works. 

    Three nights in the capital will introduce you to the diverse nature of the Japanese art world before you travel on to Kawaguchiko, a lake at the foothills of Mount Fuji. Here you can enjoy views of the iconic mountain from your hotel, and learn about the exquisite kimono art by textile artist Itchiku Kubota.  

    Matsumoto is home to two excellent art galleries: one focusing on the traditional ukiyo-e woodblock prints which immortalize scenes of Mount Fuji among others, and one focusing on modern art, complete with sculpture by Yayoi Kusama. 

    No arts trip is complete with a stay in Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Learn about the local artisans, explore hidden temples, and see the ancient sights immortalized in Japanese art.

    In Matsue you'll appreciate the collection of modern Japanese art at the Adachi Museum, also home to one of the country's best landscape gardens, before taking a sunset cruise across Lake Shinji and exploring one of Japan's best-preserved medieval castles. 

    Setouchi Art Triennale: every three years, the islands around the Seto Inland Sea ("Setouchi" in Japanese) host an internationally famous art festival. It takes place during the spring, summer, and autumn for a few weeks at a time and Naoshima is just one of the many islands involved. The next festival will take place in 2022. It does get crowded so accommodation can be difficult to secure last-minute; be sure to get in touch with us early if you'd like to visit during the art festival! 

    At a glance

    What's Included

    What's included

    • 14 nights' accommodation (three nights Japanese-style)
    • Breakfast each morning, five evening meals and two lunches
    • Airport transfers by private car
    • First class (green) train travel between destinations
    • Taxis between train stations (and hotels in some destinations)
    • Manaca transport card with 2,500 yen credit for city transport
    • Eight-hour private guide and driver service in Tokyo and Kyoto, including lunch and entrance fees
    • Half-day private guide and driver service in Matsumoto
    • Afternoon tea with a maiko (apprentice geisha) in Kyoto
    • Tickets to the Chichu Art Museum on Naoshima
    • Pocket WiFi device
    • Your personalised InsideJapan Info-Pack

    What's NOT included:

    • International flights
    • Local transport (taxis, subways, buses) unless otherwise specified
    • Entrance fees unless otherwise specified
    • Baggage handling and luggage forwarding

    Trip Highlights

    • Hop across the Inland Sea to explore Naoshima art island
    • Admire unspoiled views of Mout Fuji from your hotel
    • Experience the very best in Japanese hospitality
    • Discover Tokyo's world-class galleries
    • Meet an apprentice geisha in Kyoto
    • Visit the award-winning Adachi Museum and gardens

    For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380

    What, where, when and how...

    • Map & Dest.
    • Day by Day
    • Accommodation
    • Experiences
    • How to Book

    Japan Arts Trail - 15 Days

    Map for Japan Arts Trail

    Destinations

    • Tokyo
      Tokyo

      Read more >

    • Kawaguchiko
      Kawaguchiko

      Read more >

    • Matsumoto
      Matsumoto

      Read more >

    • Kyoto
      Kyoto

      Read more >

    • Matsue
      Matsue

      Read more >

    • Naoshima
      Naoshima

      Read more >

    Japan Arts Trail - 15 Days - Day by Day

    • Day 1-3 Tokyo
      Day 1-3 Tokyo
    • Day 4-5 Kawaguchiko
      Day 4-5 Kawaguchiko
    • Day 6 Matsumoto
      Day 6 Matsumoto
    • Day 7-9 Kyoto
      Day 7-9 Kyoto
    • Day 10-11 Matsue
      Day 10-11 Matsue
    • Day 12-13 Naoshima
      Day 12-13 Naoshima
    • Day 14-15 Tokyo
      Day 14-15 Tokyo
    View all days

    Japan Arts Trail - 15 Days - Accommodation

    • Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
      Tokyo
      Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

      Deluxe

    • Hoshinoya Fuji
      Kawaguchiko
      Hoshinoya Fuji

      Deluxe

    • Kai Matsumoto
      Matsumoto
      Kai Matsumoto

      Deluxe

    • Sowaka
      Kyoto
      Sowaka

      Deluxe

    • Minamikan
      Matsue
      Minamikan

      Superior

    • Benesse House
      Naoshima
      Benesse House

      Deluxe

    • Palace Tokyo
      Tokyo
      Palace Tokyo

      Deluxe

    Japan Arts Trail - 15 Days - Experiences

    • Mori art museum
      Mori art museum

      Read more >

    • Full day private guide and driver service in Kyoto
      Full day private guide and driver service in Kyoto

      Read more >

    • Private audience with a <i>maiko</i>
      Private audience with a maiko

      Read more >

    • Adachi Museum gardens
      Adachi Museum gardens

      Read more >

    • Monet's Water Lilies
      Monet's Water Lilies

      Read more >

    • Tadao Ando's architecture
      Tadao Ando's architecture

      Read more >

    • Day 1-3

      1-3

      Take an art tour of your striking hotel, try a tea ceremony in Hamarikyu Gardens and discover the diversity of Tokyo's arts scene in Japan's inimitable capital city.

      Upon arrival at the airport you will be taken by private car to your hotel, located in the stylish district of Meguro.

      Spend the rest of today getting acquainted with the city – stroll through the Imperial Palace gardens or take in a traditional kabuki performance at the Kabuki-za theatre in Ginza. Alternatively, you might like to take a tour of the exceptional artwork of your hotel; visit the ever-changing modern art exhibitions at Roppongi's Mori Tower; or the extensive ukiyo-e woodblock print collection at the National Museum in Ueno Park.

      On your first full day in Tokyo, you will have a private guide and driver at your disposal to help you make the most of your time in this extraordinary city. Today you will have the chance to get a personal insight into both the classic sights and some of the lesser-known gems of the city at a pace that suits you. Whether you choose to discover the historical district of Asakusa, lose yourself amongst the bright lights of Shinjuku, or try a tea ceremony next to the lake at Hamarikyu Gardens – today, Tokyo is your oyster.

      With a second full day in Tokyo there are endless options just waiting to be discovered. Travel through the art of the twentieth century at the Museum of Contemporary Art, peruse Ginza's fabulous photography museums and make a trip to the Tokyo Station Gallery to experience some of the best of the capital's arts scene.

      For those who need a break from the city, a day trip to the giant stone Buddha in sleepy Kamakura, hiking at Mount Takao or a visit to Nikko's ornate shrine complex are also great possibilities.

      Overnight: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

    • Day 4-5

      4-5

      Soak up the views of iconic Mount Fuji.

      Today you'll travel west by private car to Lake Kawaguchiko at the base of Mount Fuji. We are firm believers that Kawaguchiko offers the best views of Mount Fuji, and you'll get to enjoy them directly from your hotel, the Hoshinoya.

      In addition to enjoying the natural scenery, we recommend spending a few hours at the Itchiku Kubota museum, our favourite art museum in the area. Itchiku Kubota was a textile artist who was famous for his exquisite artwork made from silk kimono.

      Breakfast and dinner will be included both days at your accommodation. The Hoshinoya is the perfectly relaxed counterpart to the impressive Hotel Gajoen in Tokyo and has a fantastic outdoor restaurant area called the Cloud Terrace, where you can enjoy seasonal ingredients in a memorable alfresco dining experience. Additional experiences are available, such as early morning canoeing, so let us know if you'd like to tailor your stay.

      Overnight: Hoshinoya Fuji

    • Day 6

      6

      Marvel at the striking Black Crow Castle and visit the Ukiyo-e Museum of Matsumoto.

      From Kawaguchiko another private car will take you in comfort north to Matsumoto, a city famous for its ‘the black crow castle' which is undoubtedly one of the most impressive original castles in Japan. Matsumoto has two excellent art museums: if you'd like to see more of the traditional ukiyo-e woodblock prints, you can visit the Ukiyo-e Museum which houses over 100,000 prints, although only a carefully curate selection is on display at any time. If you preer modern art we're sure you will enjoy a visit to the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, which has a Yayoi Kusama sculpture just outside.

      Although there are some good quality hotels in the city centre, we recommend heading just outside to the KAI, a beautiful ryokan-hotel hybrid where you can experience the best of Japanese hospitality and kaiseki cuisine with the modern comforts of beds and your own hot spring bath on the balcony.

      Overnight: Kai Matsumoto

    • Day 7-9

      7-9

      Spend a few days getting to know Japan's ancient capital through the eyes of the locals as you take a tour of the city and enjoy an exclusive private audience with a trainee geisha.

      Today you will travel by train west to Kyoto – the cultural heart of Japan. Arriving at the gigantic architectural masterpiece that is Kyoto station, you would be forgiven for thinking that this is just another modern Japanese city – but a short walk away from your hotel you will find yourself in a different world.

      This afternoon you will join a guide for a private tour of the Gion district, close to your hotel. Our guide is the granddaughter of a geisha and can give you a intimate insight into their beautifully mysterious world.

      On your second day in Kyoto, you will have a private guide and driver at your disposal to help you maximise your time and see both the classic sights and the lesser-known areas of the city.

      You will have the opportunity to marvel at Kinkaku-ji's Golden Pavilion, to visit the Nishijin textile district and to test out an ancient burglar alarm at Nijo Castle! Your guide will take you to sample some of the best local cuisine for lunch and will be on hand all day to help give you a personal insight into the cultural life of this amazing city. In the afternoon you will be granted a private audience with a maiko (an apprentice geisha). This is truly a rare and unmissable opportunity to gain an insight into an ancient and secretive profession.

      Armed with your personalised Info-Pack, you will have another full day to explore Kyoto on day nine of your trip. We suggest a visit to Nishiki Market to discover the wide selection of foods on offer, a ramble through the thousands of vermillion torii gates at Fushimi Inari shrine, a wander in the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, and a boat trip along the peaceful Hozugawa River.

      Let us know if you would like us to arrange any experiences for you today, or if you fancy a day trip to somewhere further afield – the ancient capital of Nara, the laid-back city of Osaka, or perhaps Hiroshima.

      Rather than a standard luxury hotel, we have chosen a more secluded hotel close to Gion. Every room here is unique, and it combines exceptional hospitality with the traditional elegance of a ryokan inn, without losing any of the comfort: think sumptuous beds set on tatami mat flooring, next to sliding paper screen doors. The meals at Sowaka are exceptional so speak to us if you'd like assistance with making a dinner reservation.

      Overnight: Sowaka

    • Day 10-11

      10-11

      Relax in one of Japan's most lovely traditional ryokan inns at Tamatsukuri Onsen before taking a trip to Matsue, Japan's “City of Water”.

      Another journey on the bullet train will take you to Okayama, where you will catch a limited express train to Matsue. A charming city lying between two lakes on the Japan Sea Coast, Matsue is home to an impressive samurai castle and is known as Japan's “City of Water”.

      A private car will meet you at Matsue Station and take you to your deluxe ryokan inn in Tamatsukuri, a sacred hot spring town with the nickname “hot waters of God”. Here you will relax in the cypress-lined hot spring baths before tasting some of the very best in local cuisine tonight.

      After your night in Tamatsukuri, your private car will pick you up and take you the short distance back to Matsue for some sightseeing, including a visit to Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine: Izumo Taisha.

      No stay in Matsue would be complete without heading to the Adachi Museum, home to an impressive collection of 1,300 modern Japanese paintings by master painters of the modern era. Despite this vast collection, the Adachi Museum's most famous attraction is its exquisite Japanese garden.

      Your driver will drop you back at your accommodation in time for another exquisite dinner tonight.

      Overnight: Minamikan

    • Day 12-13

      12-13

      Stay overnight at Benesse House, Naoshima's flagship museum and hotel, as you explore this fascinating art island.

      No arts trail would be complete without a stay on Naoshima – known as “Art Island” for its pioneering approach to art and numerous innovative exhibitions. From Matsue, you will take a train to Okayama where a private car will take you on to Uno Port. It's then a short ferry journey to the island where you will stay at Benesse House, an architecturally diverse string of buildings designed by Tadao Ando that collectively make up an art gallery and hotel. Explore the works of the likes of Jasper Jones, David Hockney and Andy Warhol here at the island's flagship museum.

      After a night at Benesse House you will have a full day to explore the art exhibitions and galleries all over the island. Discover unusual outdoor installations – including Yayoi Kusama's yellow pumpkin – and walk to the Chichu Museum where Monet's Water Lilies and works by James Turrell await.

      You might also like to rent a bicycle and cycle around the coast to the Art House Projects sprinkled through the streets of Honmura village. There are small exhibitions around every corner and full details of today's options will be included in your Info-Pack.

      Overnight: Benesse House

    • Day 14-15

      14-15

      Return to Tokyo for some last-minute sightseeing before a final night with sweeping views over the Imperial Palace.

      Your trip will come full circle as you return to the capital today. You will retrace your steps to Okayama by ferry and car and from there whizz along the eastern seaboard to the capital. A private car will take you to your hotel close to the Imperial Palace, where you can spend your last afternoon doing some last-minute shopping, squeeze in a couple more galleries and dine under the train tracks of Shinbashi Station.

      On the morning of your final day in Japan you will be taken by private car from your hotel to the airport in time for your departure flight. Have a safe journey home.

      Overnight: Palace Tokyo

    View all days
    • Day 1-3

      1-3

      Take an art tour of your striking hotel, try a tea ceremony in Hamarikyu Gardens and discover the diversity of Tokyo's arts scene in Japan's inimitable capital city.

      Upon arrival at the airport you will be taken by private car to your hotel, located in the stylish district of Meguro.

      Spend the rest of today getting acquainted with the city – stroll through the Imperial Palace gardens or take in a traditional kabuki performance at the Kabuki-za theatre in Ginza. Alternatively, you might like to take a tour of the exceptional artwork of your hotel; visit the ever-changing modern art exhibitions at Roppongi's Mori Tower; or the extensive ukiyo-e woodblock print collection at the National Museum in Ueno Park.

      On your first full day in Tokyo, you will have a private guide and driver at your disposal to help you make the most of your time in this extraordinary city. Today you will have the chance to get a personal insight into both the classic sights and some of the lesser-known gems of the city at a pace that suits you. Whether you choose to discover the historical district of Asakusa, lose yourself amongst the bright lights of Shinjuku, or try a tea ceremony next to the lake at Hamarikyu Gardens – today, Tokyo is your oyster.

      With a second full day in Tokyo there are endless options just waiting to be discovered. Travel through the art of the twentieth century at the Museum of Contemporary Art, peruse Ginza's fabulous photography museums and make a trip to the Tokyo Station Gallery to experience some of the best of the capital's arts scene.

      For those who need a break from the city, a day trip to the giant stone Buddha in sleepy Kamakura, hiking at Mount Takao or a visit to Nikko's ornate shrine complex are also great possibilities.

      Overnight: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

    • Day 4-5

      4-5

      Soak up the views of iconic Mount Fuji.

      Today you'll travel west by private car to Lake Kawaguchiko at the base of Mount Fuji. We are firm believers that Kawaguchiko offers the best views of Mount Fuji, and you'll get to enjoy them directly from your hotel, the Hoshinoya.

      In addition to enjoying the natural scenery, we recommend spending a few hours at the Itchiku Kubota museum, our favourite art museum in the area. Itchiku Kubota was a textile artist who was famous for his exquisite artwork made from silk kimono.

      Breakfast and dinner will be included both days at your accommodation. The Hoshinoya is the perfectly relaxed counterpart to the impressive Hotel Gajoen in Tokyo and has a fantastic outdoor restaurant area called the Cloud Terrace, where you can enjoy seasonal ingredients in a memorable alfresco dining experience. Additional experiences are available, such as early morning canoeing, so let us know if you'd like to tailor your stay.

      Overnight: Hoshinoya Fuji

    • Day 6

      6

      Marvel at the striking Black Crow Castle and visit the Ukiyo-e Museum of Matsumoto.

      From Kawaguchiko another private car will take you in comfort north to Matsumoto, a city famous for its ‘the black crow castle' which is undoubtedly one of the most impressive original castles in Japan. Matsumoto has two excellent art museums: if you'd like to see more of the traditional ukiyo-e woodblock prints, you can visit the Ukiyo-e Museum which houses over 100,000 prints, although only a carefully curate selection is on display at any time. If you preer modern art we're sure you will enjoy a visit to the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, which has a Yayoi Kusama sculpture just outside.

      Although there are some good quality hotels in the city centre, we recommend heading just outside to the KAI, a beautiful ryokan-hotel hybrid where you can experience the best of Japanese hospitality and kaiseki cuisine with the modern comforts of beds and your own hot spring bath on the balcony.

      Overnight: Kai Matsumoto

    • Day 7-9

      7-9

      Spend a few days getting to know Japan's ancient capital through the eyes of the locals as you take a tour of the city and enjoy an exclusive private audience with a trainee geisha.

      Today you will travel by train west to Kyoto – the cultural heart of Japan. Arriving at the gigantic architectural masterpiece that is Kyoto station, you would be forgiven for thinking that this is just another modern Japanese city – but a short walk away from your hotel you will find yourself in a different world.

      This afternoon you will join a guide for a private tour of the Gion district, close to your hotel. Our guide is the granddaughter of a geisha and can give you a intimate insight into their beautifully mysterious world.

      On your second day in Kyoto, you will have a private guide and driver at your disposal to help you maximise your time and see both the classic sights and the lesser-known areas of the city.

      You will have the opportunity to marvel at Kinkaku-ji's Golden Pavilion, to visit the Nishijin textile district and to test out an ancient burglar alarm at Nijo Castle! Your guide will take you to sample some of the best local cuisine for lunch and will be on hand all day to help give you a personal insight into the cultural life of this amazing city. In the afternoon you will be granted a private audience with a maiko (an apprentice geisha). This is truly a rare and unmissable opportunity to gain an insight into an ancient and secretive profession.

      Armed with your personalised Info-Pack, you will have another full day to explore Kyoto on day nine of your trip. We suggest a visit to Nishiki Market to discover the wide selection of foods on offer, a ramble through the thousands of vermillion torii gates at Fushimi Inari shrine, a wander in the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, and a boat trip along the peaceful Hozugawa River.

      Let us know if you would like us to arrange any experiences for you today, or if you fancy a day trip to somewhere further afield – the ancient capital of Nara, the laid-back city of Osaka, or perhaps Hiroshima.

      Rather than a standard luxury hotel, we have chosen a more secluded hotel close to Gion. Every room here is unique, and it combines exceptional hospitality with the traditional elegance of a ryokan inn, without losing any of the comfort: think sumptuous beds set on tatami mat flooring, next to sliding paper screen doors. The meals at Sowaka are exceptional so speak to us if you'd like assistance with making a dinner reservation.

      Overnight: Sowaka

    • Day 10-11

      10-11

      Relax in one of Japan's most lovely traditional ryokan inns at Tamatsukuri Onsen before taking a trip to Matsue, Japan's “City of Water”.

      Another journey on the bullet train will take you to Okayama, where you will catch a limited express train to Matsue. A charming city lying between two lakes on the Japan Sea Coast, Matsue is home to an impressive samurai castle and is known as Japan's “City of Water”.

      A private car will meet you at Matsue Station and take you to your deluxe ryokan inn in Tamatsukuri, a sacred hot spring town with the nickname “hot waters of God”. Here you will relax in the cypress-lined hot spring baths before tasting some of the very best in local cuisine tonight.

      After your night in Tamatsukuri, your private car will pick you up and take you the short distance back to Matsue for some sightseeing, including a visit to Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine: Izumo Taisha.

      No stay in Matsue would be complete without heading to the Adachi Museum, home to an impressive collection of 1,300 modern Japanese paintings by master painters of the modern era. Despite this vast collection, the Adachi Museum's most famous attraction is its exquisite Japanese garden.

      Your driver will drop you back at your accommodation in time for another exquisite dinner tonight.

      Overnight: Minamikan

    • Day 12-13

      12-13

      Stay overnight at Benesse House, Naoshima's flagship museum and hotel, as you explore this fascinating art island.

      No arts trail would be complete without a stay on Naoshima – known as “Art Island” for its pioneering approach to art and numerous innovative exhibitions. From Matsue, you will take a train to Okayama where a private car will take you on to Uno Port. It's then a short ferry journey to the island where you will stay at Benesse House, an architecturally diverse string of buildings designed by Tadao Ando that collectively make up an art gallery and hotel. Explore the works of the likes of Jasper Jones, David Hockney and Andy Warhol here at the island's flagship museum.

      After a night at Benesse House you will have a full day to explore the art exhibitions and galleries all over the island. Discover unusual outdoor installations – including Yayoi Kusama's yellow pumpkin – and walk to the Chichu Museum where Monet's Water Lilies and works by James Turrell await.

      You might also like to rent a bicycle and cycle around the coast to the Art House Projects sprinkled through the streets of Honmura village. There are small exhibitions around every corner and full details of today's options will be included in your Info-Pack.

      Overnight: Benesse House

    • Day 14-15

      14-15

      Return to Tokyo for some last-minute sightseeing before a final night with sweeping views over the Imperial Palace.

      Your trip will come full circle as you return to the capital today. You will retrace your steps to Okayama by ferry and car and from there whizz along the eastern seaboard to the capital. A private car will take you to your hotel close to the Imperial Palace, where you can spend your last afternoon doing some last-minute shopping, squeeze in a couple more galleries and dine under the train tracks of Shinbashi Station.

      On the morning of your final day in Japan you will be taken by private car from your hotel to the airport in time for your departure flight. Have a safe journey home.

      Overnight: Palace Tokyo

    Close all days

    Trip Reviews

    Tour Gallery

    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • View our Gallery > Gallery

    Other trips you may like

    • Kumano Kodo Four-Night Module (Intermediate Hiking)

      Self-Guided Adventure

      Kumano Kodo Four-Night Module (Intermediate Hiking) (Classic)

      • Takahara
      • Nonaka
      • Yunomine Onsen
      • Kii-Katsuura

      This intermediate walking module offers five days exploring part of the Kumano Kodo, one of the most beautiful and mystical corners of Japan.

      4 nights: from US$1521 pp (twin share) Read more >

      View more Self-Guided Adventures

    • Manga & Anime

      Self-Guided Adventure

      Manga & Anime (Essential)

      • Tokyo
      • Kyoto
      • Osaka

      The best of Japan – with a manga and anime twist. Visit the Ghibli Museum, wander Kyoto's temples and explore "electric town" on this essential trip.

      10 nights: from US$2249 pp (twin share) Read more >

      View more Self-Guided Adventures

    • Japan Solo

      Self-Guided Adventure

      Japan Solo (Classic)

      • Tokyo
      • Kyoto
      • Hiroshima
      • Miyajima
      • Osaka
      • Tokyo

      Travelling by yourself to Japan? Look no further than our Japan Solo itinerary to take all the guesswork and stress out of your holiday planning.

      11 nights: from US$3575 pp Read more >

      View more Self-Guided Adventures

    How to book

    If you would like to book this Self-Guided Adventure, all you need to do is make an enquiry using our online form or give us a call at one of our offices in Bristol (UK), Boulder (USA), Brisbane (Australia) or Nagoya (Japan) to begin planning your holiday.

    There are no blackout dates for this trip. However, please be aware that at the busiest times of the year the named accommodation may not be available, in which case the price can not be guaranteed. However, we will always do our best to match the prices you see here as closely as possible.

    All of our Self-Guided Adventures are completely flexible, so if you like what you see here but would like to make a few changes - where it's to add in destinations, request special experiences, upgrade accommodation or plan extra nights - please don't hesitate to get in touch and one of our expert consultants will help you tailor a trip to suit you.

    Self-Guided Adventure Styles

    To help you get a feeling for our Self-Guided Adventures, we have divided the itineraries into four grades outlined below. Of course this style of travel is fully tailorable, so it’s not a problem to mix elements and grades to suit you!

    Essential Tailor-made

    Just the basics included so you can choose how much you spend

    Style Facts

    • Two- to three-star accommodation
    • No airport transfers (but a city transport pass and detailed airport transfer instructions are provided)
    • Ordinary class Japan Rail Passes
    • Breakfast every day plus some dinners
    • Cultural experiences

    Classic Tailor-made

    Mid-range hotels and Japanese inns, some private guiding and cultural experiences

    Style Facts

    • Three-star accommodation
    • Local professional guides for sightseeing in key destinations
    • Airport meet-and-greet and transfers
    • Ordinary class Japan Rail Passes
    • Breakfast every day plus some dinners
    • Cultural experiences

    Superior Tailor-made

    Enjoy in-depth cultural immersion while staying in high-quality accommodation

    Style Facts

    • Four- to five-star accommodation
    • Local professional guides for sightseeing in key destinations
    • Entrance fees and lunch included with the private guides
    • Private airport transfers
    • Green car (first class) Japan Rail Passes
    • Breakfast every day plus several lunches and dinners
    • In-depth cultural experiences

    Deluxe Tailor-made

    Luxurious hotels and Japanese inns, fine dining and exclusive experiences with a focus on comfort and ease of travel

    Style Facts

    • The very best five-star accommodation
    • Exclusive cultural experiences
    • Local professional guides with drivers and private cars for sightseeing in key destinations
    • Entrance fees and lunch included with the private guides
    • Private airport transfers
    • Private car transfers between stations and hotels
    • Green car (first class) reserved seat train tickets
    • Breakfast every day plus several lunches and dinners

    Contact us

    • GB Inside Japan UK office

      + 44 117 244 3380
    • US Inside Japan US office

      + 1 303 952 0379
    • AUS Inside Japan Australia office

      + 61 7 3186 8800
    • JAP Inside Japan - Japan office

      + 81 52 253 6068

    ABTA: Travel with confidence ASTA: American Society of Travel Agents Click for the Business Review of Inside Japan Tours, a Japan Specialist Tour Operator in Boulder CO ATOL: Air Travel Organisers Licensing ATAS AFTA AITO: Association of Independent Tour Operators ABTOT: The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust JATA logo ACTA logo

    Order a brochure or enquire today

    If you'd like any help or want to know more about Japan, feel free to either enquire today, give our Japan travel experts a call, or why not get one of our beautiful Japan brochures.

    Order a brochure Make an enquiry
    • Home
    • Contact Us
    • About Us
    • Brochures
    • Accreditation
    • Testimonials
    • Reviews
    • Sustainability
    • Modern Slavery Statement
    • Latest Trip Features
    • Small Group Tours
    • Self-Guided Adventures
    • Exclusive Private Journeys
    • Experiences
    • Trip Themes
    • Offers
    • Travel Agents
    • Magazine
    • Blog
    • Travel Tips & Advice
    • Japan Interactive Map
    • When To Travel
    • FAQs
    • Culture
    • Destinations
    • Press Coverage
    • Company News
    • Jobs with InsideJapan
    • Cookie Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Site Map

    Connect with InsideJapan

    Choose your currency

    • GBP
    • EUR
    • AUD
    • USD
    • CAD

    Sign up for our newsletter

    Sign me up Client log in

    InsideJapan Tours

    Get beneath the surface

    Award-winning, innovative and fun group tours, tailormade trips and cultural experiences throughout Japan.

    • Conde Nast Awards Travel Specialists
    • Conde Nast Awards Readers' Choice
    • World's Best Awards
    • Afar Awards
    • TTG Travel Awards
    • Travel & Leisure Awards
    • TTG Luxury Travel Awards
    • Magellan Awards
    • Sunday Times Travel Awards
    • Wanderlust awards
    • Travvy Awards
    • Best travel specialists
    • Guardian Travel Awards
    • Guardian Travel Awards
    • Independent Travel Awards
    • Tour Grand Prix
    Travel Agents Client Log In

    Looking to travel to Southeast Asia?

    Visit our sister brand InsideAsia Tours.

    InsideAsia Tours
    Inside Travel Group Ltd, Electricity House, Quay Street, Bristol, BS1 4TD, UK
    Tel. UK (0)117 244 3380 Email [email protected]
    © Inside Travel Group Ltd. 2023
    wilddogdesign.co.uk Powered by AMO

    Search for your trip

    Sign up to our newsletter

    If you're interested in Japan, you will love our newsletter. Sign-up and we'll bring a little bit of the magic of Japan to your inbox as well as letting you know about our latest Japan travel experiences, exclusive promotions and insider specials!

    + 44 117 244 3380

    Your details

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    Make an enquiry

    Get one step closer to Japan

    Looking for some inside knowledge? Would like a little expert assistance? Fill in this form, tell us a few things about yourself and what your perfect Japan trip looks like and our team are here to help make it happen.

    Alternatively, give us a call. There is nothing we enjoy more than talking about Japan!

    + 44 117 244 3380

    Your Trip

    We don't believe in a one size fits all approach, so please provide us with as much relevant information as possible to help us plan your perfect holiday!

    Almost there!

    How can we contact you about your enquiry?

    We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

    Your details

    Your address

    Look up address Enter address manually

    We send all our proposals by email and it's usually the best way for us to send you ideas and information about your trip and to answer your questions.

    It would be great to have the chance to speak on the phone so we can get the best possible understanding of what you're looking for (and because we all love talking about Japan!)

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    Receive a brochure in the mail

    Complete the form below and our latest brochure full of Japan inspiration will be on its way to you next working day.

    + 44 117 244 3380

    Your Trip

    Almost there!

    Please fill in your name and contact details below

    + 44 117 244 3380

    Your details

    One final thing to ask!

    Please fill in your address details below to be sent our latest brochure

    + 44 117 244 3380

    Your address

    Look up address Enter address manually
    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    Download our latest brochure

    Complete this simple form and we'll email you a link to download our latest brochure, packed full of Japan travel inspiration.

    + 44 117 244 3380

    Your Trip

    Almost there!

    Just let us know who you are and you'll receive the brochure links in the next couple of minutes.

    Your details

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    Email Form

    You can email us using the below form. We would also love to chat about your travel plans and are happy to talk if you have any questions, so feel free to give our local office a call.

    + 44 117 244 3380

    Your Enquiry

    Your details

    We send all our proposals by email and it's usually the best way for us to send you ideas and information about your trip and to answer your questions.

    It would be great to have the chance to speak on the phone so we can get the best possible understanding of what you're looking for (and because we all love talking about Japan!)

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    Special Offer Enquiry

    You can email us using the below form. We would also love to chat about your travel plans and are happy to talk if you have any questions, so feel free to give our local office a call.

    Offer title:

    Code:

    + 44 117 244 3380

    Your Enquiry

    Your details

    We send all our proposals by email and it's usually the best way for us to send you ideas and information about your trip and to answer your questions.

    It would be great to have the chance to speak on the phone so we can get the best possible understanding of what you're looking for (and because we all love talking about Japan!)

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    RE