Starts
Ends
Tokyo, Japan
Kyoto, Japan
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25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
Spot snow monkeys in Nagano.
Explore a 16th-century samurai castle.
Cycle through the rural town of Hagi.
Experience a homestay in a traditional Japanese community.
Step off the tourist trail and dive into Japan’s hidden gems with the "Back Roads of Japan" national parks tour. Over 11 days, you’ll journey from Tokyo to Kyoto, weaving through destinations often overlooked by the crowds. Explore the historic Matsumoto Castle, immerse yourself in samurai culture, and pedal through the charming city of Hagi.
A highlight is an authentic community homestay, where you’ll experience Japanese life from the inside out. With time to explore vibrant Tokyo and serene Kyoto before and after, this trip offers a unique blend of Japan’s past and present.
USP: The chance to truly immerse yourself in local culture through a homestay and explore regions most travelers miss—ideal for those seeking a deeper, more personal Japanese adventure.
Back Roads of Japan was well-organized and seamlessly operated. Izumi, our amazing tour guide handled all the details with grace and efficiency, making our travel planning stress-free. She provided insights into local culture, history, and geography, enhancing the overall experience. This tour covered exploration of two big cities, Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as visiting smaller sites for hiking, cycling and cultural immersion. Visits to Buddhist temples and Shonto shrines were fascinating. Indulging in a variety of Japanese food was a highlight of the trip.
An amazing experience, just as good as I had imagined.
An awesome adventure to an awesome county. 5stars
Mack provided a memorable experience. The homestay was a highlight. The family showed us many of Hagi's interesting attractions, got to sleep on a matt on the floor and eat traditional food. Excellent.
We had a wonderful time, a knowledgeable, fun but serious guide! We met fellow travellers who have become friends! We feel honoured that we saw Japanese real life!!THANK YOU!!!
Great introduction to Japan, to city life (Tokyo and Kyoto) and the country (snow monkeys were a highlight as was the homestay in Hagi). Mack is the most diligent, thoughtful tour guide I have come across, and I would thoroughly recommend this trip
Overall experience was amazing because Izumi was incredible and I enjoyed the group as well as the people of Japan. Hagi was my favorite; what real Japanese experience and what a wonderful family! Would?ve like one more day in Hagi so I could see the shrine in the picture!!
An excellent overview of Japan ..look forward to my n?ext Japan tour