Set out on a profound journey along Japan’s Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail, a trek that elegantly weaves spiritual heritage with natural beauty. This 11-day, self-guided private tour departs from Osaka and offers experienced travelers an immersive exploration of Shikoku’s sacred sites and tranquil countryside. With accommodation, transportation, and meals seamlessly arranged, you’re free to focus on the moderate trekking experience, discovering historic temples, serene mountain paths, and picturesque villages at your own rhythm.
The tour’s unique charm lies in its blend of cultural discovery and personal reflection, allowing travelers to walk sections of one of Japan’s oldest pilgrimage routes while enjoying the flexibility of a private itinerary. For those seeking a moderate physical challenge and a deep dive into Japan’s spiritual traditions, this trip stands out as an enriching and memorable adventure.
Say sayōnara to the list-ticking tourists and head southwest, where the extraordinary natural beauty of Japan is on full display. Starting in Osaka, and joined by an expert tour leader, we explore the lesser-visited islands of Kyushu and Shikoku by public transport, including the iconic bullet train. Expect deep cultural immersion – who wouldn’t want to master ‘hell steam’ cuisine? – and active adventures, including a cycle on the famed Shimanami Kaido and a hike up the active volcano, Mount Aso. If you want to see a different side to Japan, this is the trip for you.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Ikuchi
Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Ikuchi Jima, Matsuyama, Kyushu, Mount Aso
I have just completed the 17 day Japan tour and it has been an incredible trip. The itinerary is packed with a wide variety of experiences from an origami class, staying in a 1000 year old temple, seeing snow monkeys (if you are lucky!) and a Samurai class to name a few. There is also plenty of free time throughout the trip to shop and explore which I appreciated as there were a few things I wanted to do which weren’t part of the itinerary.
My group leader Dan is an absolute legend!! It is my second tour with him and he always goes above and beyond to ensure we all have the best experience possible. He truly cares about each individual in the group and ensures everyone feels included. When we had free time Dan gave us plenty of recommendations of things to see and do and took us to additional places. He has an extensive cultural knowledge of Japan and I learnt a lot about Japan which I didn’t know about prior to the trip. It was also my birthday on the second day of the trip and it will definitely be a birthday that I will always remember!
I highly recommend doing this tour, you will not be disappointed!
Thank you so much Dan! 😊
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Home-stay, Hostel
Age Range
18-55 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Hiros
Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Nagano, Hakone
Experience the best of Japan and South Korea on this combo tour. In Japan, explore Tokyo’s Imperial Palace and Shibuya Crossing, hike to Kamakura's giant Buddha, unwind in Hakone’s onsen baths, cycle Kyoto’s streets, and reflect at Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial and Miyajima’s iconic torii gate. Transition to South Korea to visit Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace, meet a North Korean defector at the DMZ, discover Busan, hike Seoraksan National Park, stay at a Buddhist temple, and enjoy a beach BBQ on Jeju Island.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
With the arrival of cool autumn, Japan transforms into a kaleidoscope of hues. For this 14-day journey, you will witness the breathtaking spectacle of golden ginkgo leaves lining the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue in Tokyo. You will also be captivated by the Chureito Pagoda, set against a stunning backdrop of vibrant red foliage in Kawaguchiko. The charm of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-Dera and the serene beauty of Jojakko-Ji Temple in Arashiyama are further enhanced by the vivid red leaves that frame them. You will also have the opportunity to traverse the historic Kumano Kodo, a pilgrimage route where the autumn scenery unfolds along mountain trails, punctuated by visits to sacred shrines and temples. This journey promises not only visual delights but also a deeper connection with the cultural and spiritual heart of Japan.
Prepare to explore all the best places in Japan as your vacation will be carefully planned with a harmonious blend of the country’s timeless traditions and its dynamic modernity. Begin your adventure in Osaka, a vibrant city famed for its mouthwatering cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and bustling streets. Next, pay a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a moving tribute to the resilience of its people and a somber reminder of history.
Then, step back in time with a Kyoto day tour, Japan’s ancient capital, where you’ll experience breathtaking temples, serene gardens, and the elegance of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. No trip to Japan would be complete without a visit to Mt. Fuji, the awe-inspiring icon of Japan, standing as a testament to nature’s beauty. Conclude your vacation in Tokyo, a city where soaring skyscrapers, cutting-edge technology, and endless entertainment promise a thrilling end to your travels.
For first-time visitors, this itinerary is the perfect introduction to Japan, balancing cultural immersion and modern exploration. With world-class guides and carefully planned experiences, you’ll gain a rich understanding of Japanese culture, hospitality, and innovation. Our stress-free journey begins with Door-to-Airport Service, with a professional chauffeur handling your airport transfer, so you start relaxed and ready for adventure. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our Airport Meet-and-Greet Welcome Service with local tour guides offering 24/7 support. Our small group tour—capped at 16 guests—ensures a more personalized experience and provides a closer connection to Japan’s unique offerings.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
35-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tokyo, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto
Tokyo, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Hakone
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Discover the best of South Korea and Japan on this 26-day journey from Seoul to Osaka. Explore grand palaces, bustling markets and the DMZ before heading south for coastal Busan, a temple stay and historic Gyeongju. Then it’s off to Japan, where Tokyo’s neon streets, sushi classes and arcades await. Ride bullet trains to Nagano’s hot springs and snow monkeys, Hakone’s views of Mount Fuji, and Kyoto’s bamboo groves, temples and geisha district. Along the way you’ll try taekwondo, master origami, meditate with monks and even train with a samurai. The trip ends in lively Osaka.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Japan, where ancient traditions meet vibrant modernity. From Osaka’s dynamic charm and Hiroshima’s poignant history to Kyoto’s serene beauty and Tokyo’s futuristic allure, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Japan’s cultural and natural wonders.
Immerse yourself in iconic landmarks like Osaka Castle, the floating Itsukushima Shrine, and Kyoto’s tranquil Bamboo Grove. Savor authentic Japanese experiences, from crafting matcha tea and sushi to witnessing the artistry of sumo wrestling. Delight in the country’s breathtaking landscapes, historical temples, and lively districts like Dotonbori and Akihabara.
With curated activities, expert guidance, and leisure time to explore, this journey promises a perfect blend of adventure, discovery, and relaxation.
See the itinerary section for details.
