Northern Japan Winter Discovery

Upon arrival in Tokyo, your driver will be waiting at the airport to escort you to our hotel located in the traditional Asakusa district via a shared shuttle. The tour leader will greet you in the lobby, and later in the evening, you will meet with the group for an orientation meeting and an exquisite meal at one of the area's finest restaurants.

On day 2, get ready to explore the diverse and exciting attractions of Tokyo. Our itinerary is fluid, but we may start the day by wandering through Asakusa's charming market stalls and visiting the historic Senso-ji temple. Continue our exploration by visiting other unique districts of Tokyo, such as the electronic stores of Akihabara, the tranquil Meiji Shrine, or the bustling Shibuya crossing.

Accommodation: Gracery Asakusa Hotel or similar

Tokyo - Tsurui. Today we take an included domestic flight north, to Hokkaido. This is Japan's second-largest island, known for its rare wildlife, rugged landscapes, volcanic terrain, and snow festivals. Despite its beauty, Hokkaido remains unvisited by many international visitors and even some Japanese. On arrival in Kushiro, we transfer by private coach to Tsurui, and enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner at our accommodation.

Accommodation: Woody Hotel & Restaurant Yumekobo or similar

Tsurui - Kawayu Onsen. Today we hope to observe the mating dance of the rare red-crowned crane on a bird-watching tour in Tsurui. This area is a well-known breeding ground for the species, and we will be accompanied by both a local guide and our tour leader to try and spot them. So be sure to bring your camera! Later, we travel by private coach to Kawayu Onsen near Lake Kussharo.

Accommodation: Kawayu Kanko Hotel or similar

Kawayu - Abashiri. Begin today by boarding an icebreaker for a scenic cruise on the Okhotsk Sea. This cruise offers stunning views of the Shiretoko Peninsula and the opportunity to observe Steller's Sea Eagles on the ice floes. Later, we travel by private coach to Abashiri, where we visit the Abashiri Prison Museum. This collection of buildings was built during the Meiji era (1868-1912). Dinner will be provided at the hotel in the evening.

Accommodation: Abashiri Koso or similar

Abashiri - Sapporo. Day 6 sees us travel by train from Abashiri to Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido. The train ride will provide stunning views of Hokkaido's expansive snowy landscapes. Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1972. You can explore the city and try unique local dishes such as buttery ramen noodles. During the annual snow festival, Odori Park becomes a hub of activity with snow sculptures and food stalls offering a delightful experience for visitors. The city also boasts Meiji period architecture, including the iconic Clock Tower.

Day 7 is at leisure to enjoy the winter wonderland of Sapporo. We recommend visiting Nijo Fish Market, exploring the Ainu Museum to learn about Hokkaido's indigenous people, or climbing the TV tower for panoramic city views. The day will conclude with a dinner at the Sapporo Beer Brewery.

Accommodation: Cross Hotel Sapporo or similar

Sapporo - Hakodate. Travelling by train to Hakodate, we can explore Meiji period red-brick warehouses in the afternoon, now transformed into trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. We can also delve into the early modern history of the city at the unique star-shaped Goryokaku fort. Hakodate has a rich history, closely connected to Japan's re-opening to the world in the nineteenth century after centuries of isolation.

As the sun sets, we take a thrilling cable car ride to the summit of Mt Hakodate, where we can admire one of Japan's best panoramic nighttime views.

Accommodation: Hakodate Kokusai Hotel or similar

Hakodate - Kyoto. After exploring Hakodate's bustling morning market on day 9, it is time to bid farewell to Hokkaido and head back to Honshu, Japan's main island, via a flight from Hakodate to Itami Airport. From here, we hop on a train to Kyoto, a city that served as Japan's cultural and political hub for over a thousand years. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious meal with your group. Kyoto's rich history as the centre of Imperial power has left behind a wealth of historical sites, including temples, shrines, palaces, and gardens that were fortunately spared from destruction during World War Two.

Our tour leader will lead an in-depth exploration of Kyoto on day 10, showcasing both famous landmarks and hidden gems. The highlight of the day will be a special meeting with a maiko (trainee geisha), offering insight into the enigmatic world of geisha culture.

Day 11 will offer free time to further explore Kyoto's attractions or to embark on a day trip to nearby destinations accessible by train. Your tour leader may lead an optional excursion to Nara, the former capital, located just a short train ride away. Alternatively, you are free to pursue your own interests and sights.

Accommodation: The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo or similar

Kyoto - Kanazawa - Shirakawago - Kanazawa. In the morning of day 12, we depart from Kyoto and travel by train to Kanazawa on the Japan Sea coast, a region known as "yukiguni" or snow country. Similar to Kyoto, Kanazawa was spared from bombing during World War II due to its significant religious sites and cultural assets, making it one of Japan's best-preserved historical cities. In the afternoon, we visit Kenrokuen, a famous garden in Japan known for its iconic "snow ropes" that protect the trees from heavy snowfall in winter. If time permits, consider visiting the local market, samurai district, or 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

On day 13, we embark on a day trip by private bus to Shirakawago, with a stop along the way to learn about traditional Japanese washi paper making. Once in Shirakawago, indulge in a hearty traditional lunch before exploring this UNESCO World Heritage designated village, known for its traditional thatched roofing, or gassho-zukuri. Returning to Kanazawa in the evening, the rest of today is at leisure.

Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Kanazawa or similar

Kanazawa - Tokyo. Experience one last afternoon and evening in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo after arriving on a high-speed bullet train from Kanazawa. Take advantage of some free time to explore, shop for souvenirs, and savour a farewell dinner with our tour leader and group. On day 15, a shared shuttle bus will transport you to the airport for your journey home. Wishing you a safe trip back!

Accommodation: Millenium Mitsui Garden or similar