Japan Shades of Autumn

Upon arrival in Japan, our driver will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel in the Asakusa district of Tokyo. Your tour leader will be waiting in the lobby. Asakusa is a traditional, low-rise district known for Sensoji Temple, Kaminari gate, and vibrant street food and souvenir stalls. Take some time to explore the area before enjoying a welcome meal with your tour group at a local restaurant.

On day 2, we embark on a full-day tour of Tokyo with our tour leader, visiting a variety of sights including Akihabara and Harajuku. A visit to Hamarikyu Gardens will provide a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the evening, you'll have free time to relax or explore the city further.

Day 3 is at leisure. You can further explore Tokyo on your own or take a day trip to nearby destinations like Nikko or Mount Takao to experience the stunning fall foliage.

Accommodation: Gracery Asakusa Hotel or similar

Tokyo - Matsumoto. Escape the chaos of Tokyo as we head into the mountains to the historic castle town of Matsumoto. The city is home to one of Japan's few remaining samurai castles, the striking "Black Crow" castle, known for its distinctive black wainscoting. Our time in Matsumoto is free, but we strongly recommend visiting the castle. Climbing the steep stairways to gaze out over the plateau and surrounding mountains is a memorable experience. Art enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy in Matsumoto, with attractions such as the ukiyo-e woodblock print museum and the City Art Museum, which showcases the works of local artist Yayoi Kusama. Our tour leader will be able to recommend a good restaurant for dinner!

Accommodation: Marunouchi Hotel or similar

Matsumoto - Takayama. On day 5, we travel by coach to the alpine town of Takayama, where the autumn leaves showcase a beautiful array of reds, golds, and ambers. Known for its skilled craftspeople with a history in temple construction, Takayama features charming streets and unique trinkets reflecting its craft tradition. Spend the afternoon exploring workshops and sake breweries independently before enjoying an included kaiseki meal at our Japanese-style ryokan inn.

Day 6 includes a guided tour of Takayama with a local expert, including the morning market and the Hida no Sato Folk Village with preserved thatched-roof farmhouses. For dinner, try the local specialty Hida beef, known for its melt-in-the-mouth flavour. Our tour leader can provide recommendations for evening activities.

Accommodation: Tanabe Ryokan or similar

Takayama - Kanazawa. Known for its delicious cuisine, world-class modern art, well-preserved old town, and stunning gardens, Kanazawa offers everything you could desire in a Japanese city. Spared significant damage in World War Two bombings, Kanazawa boasts some of the finest examples of feudal-era samurai residences and traditional teahouses in Japan. Take time to explore the historic districts and visit the renowned Kenrokuen garden, famous for its beautiful cherry and maple trees displaying vibrant autumn colors. Enjoy the evening at your leisure, or let our tour leader guide you to their top dining and drinking recommendations in the city.

Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Kanazawa or similar

Kanazawa - Kyoto. While Tokyo represents modern Japan, Kyoto is a stronghold of traditional art and culture. Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, the city may seem like any other modern Japanese city, but a guided walking tour of Gion will unveil the rich history and charm of this ancient capital. Gion is the last remaining geisha district in Japan, with its old-fashioned teahouses lining the streets and alleys. We enjoy the rare opportunity to meet a trainee geisha and enjoy a meal with our group.

On day 9, a local Kyotoite will lead a full day exploration of the city by private minibus, providing insider knowledge on the best shrines and temples to visit. A boat trip on the Hozugawa River will offer stunning views of the colorful hills and lead us to the enchanting bamboo groves of Arashiyama.

Day 10 is free for independent exploration. You can continue exploring Kyoto, or head further afield. Thanks to Japan's rapid bullet train network, it is possible to travel as far as Hiroshima and still be back for dinner, but you may wish to head somewhere closer, such as Osaka or Himeji. Our tour leader will be on hand to help you plan your day, including logistics!

Accommodation: Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi or similar

Kyoto - Hakone. Travel to Hakone on the bullet train and spend the afternoon exploring the Chokoku no Mori open-air sculpture park, one of Japan's top art museums. Indulge in a delicious meal at a local restaurant before retiring to your Japanese-style inn with private and shared hot-spring baths.

On day 12, you can independently embark on a full day of exploring Hakone using various modes of transportation, including cable cars, ropeways, and even a pirate ship on Lake Ashi - a 3-day transportation pass for Hakone is included! Discover samurai checkpoints, intricate marquetry crafts, and hot springs where you can cook an egg. Enjoy sumptuous views of Mount Fuji, especially in the autumn when visibility is clearer.

Accommodation: Laforet Club Hakone Gora Yunosumika or similar

Hakone - Tokyo. We make our way back to the capital via bullet train on day 13. And the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore areas you may have missed before. Visit the eclectic second-hand shops of Shimokitazawa, enjoy some retro gaming at Nakano Broadway, or take in the breathtaking views from the Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest structures in the world. End the day with an include farewell group dinner with your tour leader to celebrate the end of an incredible trip (not included).

On day 14, bid farewell to Japan as you head to the airport for your flight home - a departure transfer is included.

Accommodation: JR Kyushu Blossom Shinjuku or similar