Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.

In the morning, we’ll enjoy an extensive guided tour of this truly mesmerizing city, lasting approximately five hours. Tokyo’s vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist beautifully with its tranquil, serene spaces.
We’ll begin with a brief stop at Zojoji Temple , where you’ll capture one of the most iconic views of the Tokyo Tower . The temple grounds are adorned with hundreds of Jizo statues, intricately carved stone figures believed to be protectors of children, dressed in colorful knit caps, bibs, and windmills.
Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing , often hailed as the busiest intersection in the world, followed by a visit to the Meiji Shrine , dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.
Our journey will continue by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue. We’ll then see the most picturesque parts of the Imperial Palace and its gardens and stop to admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge .
As we proceed, we’ll pass through the vibrant Akihabara district , also known as the “Electric Town,” a hub for Japanese manga and anime culture. We’ll also drive past the Kokugikan, Japan’s renowned sumo wrestling arena.
We’ll conclude our tour in Asakusa, visiting the historic Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street.
Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel.
At 6:30 p.m. , we’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the metro (tickets included) to the lively Shinjuku district . Here, we’ll enjoy a stroll through its bustling streets, renowned for their vibrant nightlife, as we head to a local restaurant for dinner (included). Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel by metro, accompanied by our guide.
Important Note: For groups with fewer than five passengers, the city tour will be conducted using a “Hop-On Hop-Off” tourist bus. These buses follow routes covering Tokyo’s most iconic attractions, allowing you to disembark, explore points of interest, and reboard the next bus at your convenience.

Total distance covered by bullet train: 430 km.
07:00 a.m. - Departure from the hotel. We’ll transfer to Tokyo Station to board a high-speed bullet train. The journey will take approximately two hours and fifteen minutes.
Note: You’ll be accompanied to the station, but during the train journey, a guide will not travel with you if the group for this section of the trip has fewer than 15 people. Upon your arrival at Kyoto Station, our guide will be waiting to continue the tour.
10:30 a.m. - Kyoto. We’ll meet our main guide and begin exploring this historic city, which served as Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and hosted the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to preserve its extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage. Kyoto is also known as the site where the 1997 Kyoto Protocol was signed, a treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Our visit will include the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll admire the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, known as the “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by magnificent gardens.
07:00 p.m. - After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Gion, Kyoto’s traditional district, known for its vibrant atmosphere and Geishas.

Total distance covered: 320 km.
Scenery: Beautiful countryside views.
08:00 a.m. - Departure from Kyoto. We’ll set out for Tsumago, passing through picturesque rural landscapes.
11:15 a.m. - Tsumago. This charming village, renowned for its traditional wooden houses, is one of the most beautiful places in Japan. You’ll have free time to explore, and lunch will be included at a local restaurant.
01:30 p.m. - Departure from Tsumago.
02:45 p.m. - Matsumoto. Arrival in this vibrant city, where we’ll visit the stunning 16th-century castle, known as the “The Crow.” Afterward, enjoy free time to discover this bustling tourist hub.
06:00 p.m. - Departure from Matsumoto.
07:15 p.m. - Nagano.
Note: On some tours, we may not stay overnight in Nagano but instead in the town of Matsumoto.

Total distance covered: 160 km.
Scenery: Today, our journey will take us through the stunning Japanese Alps, showcasing breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Note: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the Monkey Park.
Early in the morning, in Nagano, we’ll visit the Zenkoji Temple, a significant pilgrimage site housing the first Buddhist image brought to Japan. Guests will have the unique opportunity to participate in the Gomakuyo ceremony, believed to bring good luck.
10:30 a.m. - Departure from Nagano. We’ll travel through the high mountains.
11:30 a.m. - Monkey Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a delightful walk through lush forests with rivers and thermal springs, home to colonies of Japanese monkeys that bathe in the natural hot springs. Lunch will be included.
01:45 p.m. - Departure from the park. Our journey will continue through spectacular mountain scenery, reaching altitudes of up to 2,172 meters and passing by semi-active volcanoes.
03:00 p.m. - Kusatsu. This charming spa city features a vibrant main square and a beautiful city park with outdoor onsen. Enjoy some time to stroll and immerse yourself in the relaxing atmosphere.
05:45 p.m. - Departure from Kusatsu.
07:15 p.m. - Ikaho. Arrival in this picturesque spa town, known for its historic center with charming staircase streets. We’ll stay at a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese-style hotel, where you can continue enjoying the soothing baths. A traditional Japanese dinner will be included.
Notes:
-During the autumn, the movement of the monkeys can be unpredictable due to the availability of fruit in the mountains. If the macaques do not descend to the park, it may be closed.
-Visits to Kusatsu may be canceled from November to April due to weather conditions.
-On certain dates, accommodation may be provided in nearby towns such as Takasaki or Maebashi, in a Western-style hotel.

Total distance covered: 400 km.
07:45 a.m. - Departure from Ikaho Onsen.
10:00 a.m. - Nikko. This extraordinary town is renowned for its rich history and stunning landmarks. We’ll visit the awe-inspiring Nikko Toshogu Shrine, celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship, and the Hall of the Crying Dragon, known for its fascinating acoustics. Our visit will also include the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, surrounded by tranquil natural beauty. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues line the riverside path. Free time will be provided for lunch and to explore the town center.
03:30 p.m. - Departure from Nikko.
07:45 p.m. - Sendai. Arrival in this vibrant, modern city with over one million inhabitants. Take the evening to explore Sendai’s bustling center and enjoy dinner in one of its lively districts.

Total distance covered: 217 km.
Scenery: Forests, mountains, and the breathtaking scenery of the Thousand Islands area.
08:00 a.m. - Departure for the marvelous city of Matsushima.
08:30 a.m. - Matsushima. Arrival in this picturesque city on the "Thousand Islands" Bay in the Pacific Ocean, considered one of the most beautiful locations in Japan. We’ll visit a magnificent tea house overlooking the sea, where we’ll enjoy a cup of traditional tea as our guide shares insights about the city. Afterward, we’ll embark on a 50-minute cruise (included).
11:00 a.m. - Departure. Lunch will be included.
02:00 p.m. - Hiraizumi. We’ll visit its historic temples, starting with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Takkoku no Iwaya, carved into the rock in 801. We’ll then explore the magnificent Buddhist temples of Chusonji and enjoy a peaceful moment in the gardens of Motsuji Temple, where passengers can participate in a Zen ceremony (admission included).
05:15 p.m. - Departure for Morioka.
06:45 p.m. - Morioka. Arrival in the pleasant capital of Iwate Province. We’ll check into our hotel and have free time to explore the city.

Total distance covered: 197 km.
Note: We recommend bringing warm clothing to enjoy the ferry´s open deck.
07:30 a.m. - Departure. We’ll travel north through a region of beautiful landscapes.
09:30 a.m. - Hirosaki. Arrival in this former cultural capital during the Edo period. We’ll visit its 17th-century castle, set within a stunning park where more than 2,500 cherry trees bloom in the spring.
10:30 a.m. - Departure from Hirosaki.
11:40 a.m. - Aomori. Arrival in the provincial capital on Mutsu Bay. We’ll visit the Nebuta Museum to learn about Japan’s vibrant festival traditions, reminiscent of carnivals, featuring beautifully painted and illuminated floats. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.
Afterward, we’ll board a ferry to cross to Hokkaido Island. The ferry is scheduled to depart at 02:20 p.m. Enjoy a scenic journey of just over three and a half hours.
06:00 p.m. - Hakodate. Free time to explore the charming pedestrian-friendly historic center, where we can admire the city´s cultural influences, including the Russian Orthodox Church and various Christian churches.

Total distance covered: 338 km.
Scenery: Beautiful landscapes and stunning volcanic areas.
Note: We recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking in Hell Valley.
In the morning, we’ll visit the impressive and bustling fish market. We’ll also go up Goryokaku Tower, where we’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and appreciate the star-shaped layout of Hakodate’s historic fortress. You’ll have free time to explore the castle grounds before we continue our journey.
11:00 a.m. - Departure.
11:45 a.m. - Onuma. Free time to explore this magnificent tourist area, known for its countless small islands. You can take a boat ride or walk across the bridges connecting the islands. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.
01:45 p.m. - We’ll continue our journey along the coastline.
04:15 p.m. - Noboribetsu. We’ll visit this spectacular volcanic area, walking among the steaming fumaroles of Jigokudani (Hell Valley), admiring the boiling waters of Lake Oyunuma, and following the trail along the hot-water river to a spot where you can enjoy a relaxing foot bath.
06:30 p.m. - Departure.
08:15 p.m. - Sapporo. Arrival in the beautiful capital of northern Japan at the end of the day.

Total distance covered: 120 km.
08:30 a.m. - We’ll start the morning with a city tour of Sapporo, making brief photo stops at the Clock Tower and Odori Park Avenue, dominated by the towering TV Tower. We’ll then spend an hour exploring the beautiful Hokkaido Jingu Shinto Shrine, where we’ll take part in a Kito, a traditional ceremonial prayer to give thanks for our journey.
11:00 a.m. - Just outside Sapporo, we’ll visit the Hill of Buddha, a striking example of modern architecture inaugurated in 2015. This lavender-covered hill houses a massive Buddha statue. The complex also features replicas of the Moai statues from Easter Island.
12:15 p.m. - We’ll continue to Otaru.
01:00 p.m. - Otaru. Arrival in this charming town with a distinctly European feel, known for its lively commercial streets, historic canal, and small museums. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.
03:30 p.m. - Return to Sapporo, arriving at 04:30 p.m. The rest of the afternoon will be free to explore the city at your own pace.

Total distance covered: 200 km.
Scenery: Beautiful inland landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and volcanic areas.
Note: We recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking in the upper area of the cable car. Warm clothing is advised. Please bring a small travel bag to avoid having to retrieve your luggage on the overnight ferry.
08:15 a.m. - We’ll visit the Ainu Village Museum (Pirko Kotan) to learn about the culture of the Ainu people, the indigenous inhabitants of this island before the arrival of the Japanese. We’ll then depart from Sapporo and head into the heart of Hokkaido, traveling through beautiful landscapes of lakes and mountains until we reach the hot spring town of Toyako.
10:45 a.m. - Toyako. This charming town sits at the foot of an impressive volcano, overlooking a picturesque lake that fills an ancient crater. You’ll have time to stroll along the lake’s shores before visiting the Volcanology Museum, which chronicles past eruptions in the region. Afterward, we’ll take a cable car to the summit of Mount Usu, where you’ll have time to explore the volcanic terrain and take in breathtaking views. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. We’ll then continue along the coast.
05:15 p.m. - Tomakomai. We’ll board a modern overnight ferry, scheduled to depart at 07:00 p.m. Dinner will be included onboard. Accommodation will be in double cabins with private bathrooms as we sail through the Pacific Ocean overnight.

Total distance covered: 215 km.
Landscapes: Mountainous scenery, forests, and lush green landscapes.
Note: Wear comfortable footwear and bring a waterproof jacket for Yamadera.
10:00 a.m. - Arrival at Sendai Port. We’ll continue our journey.
11:30 a.m. - Yamadera. We’ll arrive at this stunning temple complex, founded over 1,000 years ago, nestled in the mountains and surrounded by towering ancient trees. The scenery is breathtaking, but reaching the temples requires climbing 1,000 steps. You’ll have time to explore this magical place. Lunch will be included.
2:30 p.m. - Departure from Yamadera.
3:45 p.m. - Yonezawa. We’ll arrive in one of Japan’s top sake-producing regions and visit the Sake Museum, which features a small distillery.
4:45 p.m. - Departure from Yonezawa. We’ll travel through picturesque landscapes.
6:00 p.m. - Aizuwakamatsu. Free time to explore this vibrant city.
Note: During winter, as night falls earlier, the climb to Iimoriyama will take place upon arrival in Aizuwakamatsu instead of on Saturday.

Total distance covered: 345 km.
In Aizuwakamatsu, we’ll visit the Samurai Mansion, a historic residence where we’ll learn about the life and traditions of the samurai warriors. Afterward, we’ll take a stroll through the Castle Garden, where we may have the chance to see children practicing martial arts in the dojo. We’ll then head up to Iimoriyama, where we’ll see the sculptures donated by Mussolini and hear the story of the young martyrs of this city.
11:00 a.m. - We’ll travel south through beautiful green landscapes, making a stop along the way for lunch.
2:00 p.m. - Mito. We’ll stop in this charming city and visit Kairakuen Gardens (admission included), considered among the most beautiful in Japan, featuring over 3,000 cherry trees. You’ll have free time to explore the city center before we continue our journey to Tokyo.
3:30 p.m. - Departure from Mito.
6:45 p.m. - Tokyo. Arrival at the end of the day.

Our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories. Please check your flight time in case you require an additional night. While the departure transfer to the airport is not included, our guide will provide recommendations for the best public transportation options to suit your journey.