UK
Australia
Canada
Luxury Tailormade Trip
Best of Northern Japan
from US$21243 per person (twin share)
14 Nights Trip Code: LLT08
Designed for travellers who want to slow down and experience a side of Japan rarely seen by first-time visitors, this journey ventures beyond the well-trodden tourist trail into landscapes shaped by ancient forests, mountain waterways, and rural communities. Read more >
Along the way, discover the region’s rich natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and warm hospitality, hallmarks of every Inside Japan journey and the key to gaining a deeper understanding of life in Japan beyond its major cities.
Beginning in Tokyo, travel north in Gran Class comfort aboard the Shinkansen before slowing the pace in Aomori, Iwate, Sendai, and Nikko. Walk alongside the crystal-clear streams and waterfalls of Oirase Gorge, explore the dramatic landscapes surrounding Lake Towada, and uncover the samurai heritage of Kakunodate. Along the way, meet local artisans, cruise through the spectacular Geibikei Gorge, and visit some of Japan’s most important cultural treasures, including the sacred temples and shrines of Nikko.
Accommodation has been selected to reflect the character of each destination, from luxury riverside retreats and boutique farm stays to elegant city hotels and renowned onsen resorts. With more time in each location, opportunities to connect with local communities, and a focus on regional cuisine and seasonal beauty, this journey offers a deeper understanding of Japan. It is an ideal choice for returning visitors or those seeking a slower, more rewarding travel experience.
What's included
14 nights' luxury stays
Airport transfers by private vehicle
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 6 evening meals
All transfers using luxury chartered vehicles and Gran Class shinkansen
Full day private guides in Tokyo & Towada
Half day private guides in Kakunodate & Nikko
Guided Oirase Gorge walking tour
Guided Shiogama food tour
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
- Oirase Gorge Guided Walking Tour
- Boutique luxury fam stay & activities
- Shiogama Food Tour
- Towada Lake & Towada Art Centre
- Meet local artisans and discover samurai history in Kakunodate
- UNESCO World Heritage temples of Nikko
Ready to plan your trip?
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 720 744 0205
What, where, when and how...
Best of Northern Japan - 15 Days
Destinations
Best of Northern Japan - 15 Days - Day by Day
Best of Northern Japan - 15 Days - Accommodation
Best of Northern Japan - 15 Days - Experiences
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Day 1-2
In true InsideJapan style, discover Tokyo's architecturally rich and creative neighbourhoods with a private Insider guide.
Explore the striking designer facades of Ginza, including Maison Hermès, Dior, Gucci and Chanel, before experiencing the energy of Shibuya Crossing. Continue to Omotesando, where iconic works by world-renowned architects showcase Japan's innovative design culture. Highlights may include Kenzo Tange's Olympic legacy, Tadao Ando's Omotesando Hills, Toyo Ito's TOD'S building, and the Prada Aoyama flagship by Herzog & de Meuron. Flexible and tailored to your interests, this experience offers a fascinating insight into modern Tokyo through the lens of architecture and design.
Suggested Accommodation: Palace Tokyo
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Day 3-5
With your luggage forwarded ahead, board the luxurious Gran Class Shinkansen and travel north to Aomori, a region of ancient forests, pristine waterways, and dramatic seasonal beauty.
Your base for the next three nights is Oirase, one of northern Japan's most celebrated natural landscapes. Here you will have the opportunity to slow down, disconnect, and experience a pristine natural environment largely unchanged for centuries. Accompanied by a local guide, explore the enchanting Oirase Gorge, where a crystal-clear mountain stream winds through dense woodland, past waterfalls and moss-covered rocks. The following day, continue deeper into Towada-Hachimantai National Park to discover the serene beauty of Lake Towada, a vast caldera lake surrounded by forested mountains. Visit the renowned Towada Art Center, whose contemporary installations provide a striking contrast to the region's timeless natural scenery.
Suggested Accommodation: Oirase Keiryu Hotel By Hoshino Resorts
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Day 6-8
Your next three nights are spent at an exclusive luxury farmhouse set amidst the fertile countryside of Iwate Prefecture.
During your stay, enjoy a private horseback ride through the open meadows of Ainosawa Pasture at the foot of Mount Iwate. Horses have been part of Iwate's rural heritage for centuries, and this relaxed experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with Japan's farming traditions while taking in the region's beautiful countryside. On another day, visit the historic samurai town of Kakunodate, located around an hour from the farmhouse. Often considered one of Japan's best-preserved samurai districts, Kakunodate is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage, though its traditional streets lined with elegant residences, and rich history make it a rewarding destination all year round.
Suggested Accommodation: Azuma Farm Koiwai
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Day 9-11
Leaving Iwate behind, travel south towards Sendai, a refreshing contrast to the rural landscapes of northern Japan, with excellent dining, shopping, and cultural attractions to enjoy at your own pace.
Meet our guide on one day to sample the region's renowned food culture. Begin the day with a seafood breakfast fresh from the waters of nearby Shiogama before exploring the city's charming streets. Enjoy a variety of local specialities, including traditional dorayaki sweets, sake tasting, a Japanese tea ceremony, and even miso-flavoured gelato. Between tastings, discover the cultural and historical stories that have shaped Sendai and the wider Miyagi region.
Suggested Accommodation: Westin Sendai
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Day 12-13
Accompanied by one of our expert guides, you'll uncover the fascinating history of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the powerful shogun who unified Japan and whose family ruled the country for more than 250 years.
Nikko was chosen as his final resting place, with his mausoleum forming part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nikkō Tōshō-gū, one of Japan's most spectacular shrine complexes. Unlike the understated simplicity often associated with Japanese religious architecture, Toshogu is richly decorated with intricate carvings, gold leaf, and vibrant colours. Beyond the temples, Nikko National Park offers dramatic mountain scenery, including Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji, a beautiful volcanic lake where you will spend the next two nights.
Suggested Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko
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Day 14-15
Your journey concludes with a final night in Tokyo. From here, you may choose to extend your stay in Japan or continue your travels to one of our other Asian destinations.
South Korea, for example, is just a two-and-a-half-hour flight away, making it an easy and rewarding addition to your adventure.
Suggested Accommodation: Okura Tokyo
-
Day 1-2
In true InsideJapan style, discover Tokyo's architecturally rich and creative neighbourhoods with a private Insider guide.
Explore the striking designer facades of Ginza, including Maison Hermès, Dior, Gucci and Chanel, before experiencing the energy of Shibuya Crossing. Continue to Omotesando, where iconic works by world-renowned architects showcase Japan's innovative design culture. Highlights may include Kenzo Tange's Olympic legacy, Tadao Ando's Omotesando Hills, Toyo Ito's TOD'S building, and the Prada Aoyama flagship by Herzog & de Meuron. Flexible and tailored to your interests, this experience offers a fascinating insight into modern Tokyo through the lens of architecture and design.
Suggested Accommodation: Palace Tokyo
-
Day 3-5
With your luggage forwarded ahead, board the luxurious Gran Class Shinkansen and travel north to Aomori, a region of ancient forests, pristine waterways, and dramatic seasonal beauty.
Your base for the next three nights is Oirase, one of northern Japan's most celebrated natural landscapes. Here you will have the opportunity to slow down, disconnect, and experience a pristine natural environment largely unchanged for centuries. Accompanied by a local guide, explore the enchanting Oirase Gorge, where a crystal-clear mountain stream winds through dense woodland, past waterfalls and moss-covered rocks. The following day, continue deeper into Towada-Hachimantai National Park to discover the serene beauty of Lake Towada, a vast caldera lake surrounded by forested mountains. Visit the renowned Towada Art Center, whose contemporary installations provide a striking contrast to the region's timeless natural scenery.
Suggested Accommodation: Oirase Keiryu Hotel By Hoshino Resorts
-
Day 6-8
Your next three nights are spent at an exclusive luxury farmhouse set amidst the fertile countryside of Iwate Prefecture.
During your stay, enjoy a private horseback ride through the open meadows of Ainosawa Pasture at the foot of Mount Iwate. Horses have been part of Iwate's rural heritage for centuries, and this relaxed experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with Japan's farming traditions while taking in the region's beautiful countryside. On another day, visit the historic samurai town of Kakunodate, located around an hour from the farmhouse. Often considered one of Japan's best-preserved samurai districts, Kakunodate is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage, though its traditional streets lined with elegant residences, and rich history make it a rewarding destination all year round.
Suggested Accommodation: Azuma Farm Koiwai
-
Day 9-11
Leaving Iwate behind, travel south towards Sendai, a refreshing contrast to the rural landscapes of northern Japan, with excellent dining, shopping, and cultural attractions to enjoy at your own pace.
Meet our guide on one day to sample the region's renowned food culture. Begin the day with a seafood breakfast fresh from the waters of nearby Shiogama before exploring the city's charming streets. Enjoy a variety of local specialities, including traditional dorayaki sweets, sake tasting, a Japanese tea ceremony, and even miso-flavoured gelato. Between tastings, discover the cultural and historical stories that have shaped Sendai and the wider Miyagi region.
Suggested Accommodation: Westin Sendai
-
Day 12-13
Accompanied by one of our expert guides, you'll uncover the fascinating history of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the powerful shogun who unified Japan and whose family ruled the country for more than 250 years.
Nikko was chosen as his final resting place, with his mausoleum forming part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nikkō Tōshō-gū, one of Japan's most spectacular shrine complexes. Unlike the understated simplicity often associated with Japanese religious architecture, Toshogu is richly decorated with intricate carvings, gold leaf, and vibrant colours. Beyond the temples, Nikko National Park offers dramatic mountain scenery, including Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji, a beautiful volcanic lake where you will spend the next two nights.
Suggested Accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko
-
Day 14-15
Your journey concludes with a final night in Tokyo. From here, you may choose to extend your stay in Japan or continue your travels to one of our other Asian destinations.
South Korea, for example, is just a two-and-a-half-hour flight away, making it an easy and rewarding addition to your adventure.
Suggested Accommodation: Okura Tokyo
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