A Sumida River Cruise in Tokyo offers travelers a unique perspective of the city, blending modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and serene waterside scenery. Gliding along the gently flowing river, visitors can admire iconic sights such as the Tokyo Skytree, Asakusa district, and traditional bridges, all from the comfort of a scenic boat.

The cruise provides a relaxing escape from the bustling city streets, making it ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers looking to enjoy Tokyo at a slower pace. Onboard, you can enjoy commentary about the city’s history and landmarks, gaining insights into Tokyo’s cultural and architectural highlights.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, a Sumida River Cruise offers memorable photo opportunities, peaceful riverside views, and a chance to experience Tokyo from a fresh angle. It’s a perfect addition to any itinerary for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a leisurely and scenic journey through the heart of Japan’s vibrant capital.

Discover Meiji Shrine, located in a serene forest near Harajuku. Walk along peaceful tree-lined paths, observe Shinto rituals, and enjoy traditional Japanese architecture. Ideal for meditation, cultural sightseeing, and photography, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

Enjoy a traditional Yakatabune houseboat dinner cruise around Tokyo Bay and Sumida River. With this Tokyo Bay cruise, you can enjoy the combination of a night of great entertainment, sightseeing, and delicious food at the same time.

 Take a train to Shin-Kawasaki Station and visit an authentic sumo stable, where you’ll witness real sumo wrestlers in training. A local guide will share the rich history and traditions of sumo, along with tips for enjoying matches. If you’d like, you can even step into the ring for a friendly match with a rikishi - women and children are welcome to participate! Afterward, enjoy a hearty bowl of chanko-nabe, the signature dish that fuels sumo wrestlers.

Dive into Tokyo’s vibrant food culture with a Shinjuku street food experience that brings you straight into the heart of Japan’s culinary scene. Wander through lively alleyways, neon-lit streets, and cosy local eateries as you sample some of the city’s favourite Japanese snacks and comfort dishes. From freshly grilled yakitori and crispy tempura to handmade ramen, takoyaki, and traditional sweets, every bite offers a taste of authentic Tokyo cuisine.

This Shinjuku food experience is perfect for travellers who want to explore beyond the tourist restaurants and discover where locals actually eat. With endless flavours, lively atmosphere, and hidden gems at every corner, Shinjuku is one of the best places in Tokyo to enjoy a fun, delicious, and memorable Japanese food adventure.

Hakone’s Black Eggs (Kuro-tamago) are a iconic local specialty, boiled in the area’s natural hot springs rich in iron and sulfur. Their distinctive black shells come from mineral deposits during cooking, while the yolks remain creamy and flavorful. A beloved snack among visitors, these eggs are said to bring seven years of good luck—making them a delicious, meaningful treat to savor while exploring Hakone’s volcanic landscapes.

 Today, begin your adventure with a scenic drive toward the majestic Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest and most iconic peak. Weather permitting, you’ll ascend to the famous 5th Station, located halfway up the mountain. From here, take in sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and volcanic landscapes — a breathtaking vantage point that reveals Fuji’s grandeur up close.

Please note: Access to the 5th Station is subject to weather and road conditions. If it is closed, you’ll instead visit the informative and beautifully designed Fuji World Heritage Centre, where interactive exhibits and immersive visuals tell the story of the mountain’s cultural and geological significance.

Continue your journey with a visit to the stunning Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, nestled on the northern shores of Lake Kawaguchi. Here, admire the extraordinary textile artistry of Kubota Itchiku, who revived the centuries-old technique of Tsujigahana silk dyeing. His intricate kimono masterpieces are displayed in a serene, museumsetting surrounded by lush gardens that he personally designed - a harmonious blend of nature and creativity.

Afterward, travel by road to Nagano, a city set against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps and known as the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the changing scenery.

 This morning, travel to Jigokudani Yaen-Koen, hometoJapan’s famous snow monkeys (Japanese
 macaques). A 30-minute walk through a scenic forested valley leads to the hot spring pool where
 the monkeys gather. The trail is mostly gentle with some inclines — comfortable walking shoes are
 recommended. 

The monkeys are wild but familiar with humans, allowing for close observation as they play, groom, or relax in their natural habitat.

Please note: The best time to see the monkeys bathing in the hot spring is during the colder months —typically December to March. While they do not soak in summer, they can still be seen in and around the park in June and July.

After your visit, enjoy lunch before heading to Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest and most revered temples, housing the first Buddhist statue ever brought into the country.

 Return to Nagano in the late afternoon

Start the day with a visit to the Daio Wasabi Farm, one of Japan’s largest wasabi farms. Learn all about how wasabi is cultivated and processed, and explore the quirky wasabi-themed statues throughout the farm. Take a relaxing boat ride along the river close to the farmer’s house while taking in the lush scenery.

Continue to the Ishii Miso House, where you’ll learn about the art of miso making. This traditional seasoning is a staple in Japanese kitchens, and you’ll gain insight into howit’s produced using centuries-old techniques.

Then, travel to the impressive Matsumoto Castle, also known as Black Crow Castle due to its striking black exterior. As one of only twelve original castles remaining in Japan, it stands as a rare
example of authentic feudal architecture. Its woodeninterior has never been rebuilt in concrete
preserving its historic atmosphere. Climb the steep wooden stairs and explore the turrets for a glimpse into samurai-era Japan.

Important Notes:

• You will need to remove your shoes before, walking on some of the castle’s wooden floors.
• The walk from the coach park to the castle takes about 15 minutes on flat ground, with some areas involving steep steps.
• Please wear comfortable footwear and bring a change of clothes in case you get wet during the boat ride at the wasabi farm.

The Takayama Matsuri (Festival) is regarded as one of the three most beautiful festivals in Japan. (along with Chichibu Matsuri in Saitama Prefecture and the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto.) The focus of the festival is the magnificent floats which are pulled through the strees of the town. The Takayama Matsuri actually composed of two festivals: the Spring Festival in which 12 floats take part, and the Autumn Festival which features 11 floats.The Takayama Festival began about 350 years ago as a simple village ceremony. Since Takayama is in Hida, the center of Japan’s timber producing region, the town grew as an important distribution center for the area, attracting large numbers of sake brewrers, cloth merchants, woodworkers, and other craftsmen.

The Kusakabe Mingeikan is the residence of the Kusakabe family, a representative merchant family of Takayama, built in 1879 (Meiji 12) and designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Visitors can see the interior of this valuable building, which inherits the architectural style of Takayama's Edo period minka (private house), while at the same time showing the breath of the new Meiji period in many places, as well as exhibiting old documents and antiques and Hida handicrafts handed down in the Kusakabe family for generations, and Mingei (folk crafts) made in various regions.
In order to deepen overseas guests' understanding of the Kusakabe House, an English-language audio guide is provided free of charge so that they can listen to explanations of the building's attractions, highlights, and permanent exhibits.

A Hida beef kaiseki dinner is a multi-course Japanese meal that incorporates high-grade Hida beef as a star ingredient, often including dishes like A5-grade steak, grilled Hida beef, or Hida beef cooked on hot stones. The kaiseki structure typically features a progression of courses like appetizers, sashimi, soups, grilled items, a rice dish, and dessert, with Hida beef prepared in different ways to highlight its texture and flavor alongside seasonal ingredients. 

After breakfast, take a scenic drive through the countryside to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These steeply thatched-roof homes were designed over 100 years ago to withstand heavy snowfall and remain a symbol of life in rural Japan.

Visit the Wada House, the largest of these historic homesopen tothe public, to learn more about daily life in this remote mountain village.

You'll spend around 1–2 hours on foot exploring the area. Note: Stairs are required to access upper levels inside the house.

Continue to the nearby village of Gokayama, where you'll enjoy a demonstration of traditional Japanese washi papermaking, a craft passed down through generations.

Begin your day with a visit to Nagamachi Samurai District, where narrow lanes, earthen walls, and restored samurai residences bring the Edo period to life. Step inside a preserved samurai house to get a glimpse of how the warrior class once lived — from traditional architecture to historical weapons and furnishings. 

Next, stroll through the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, regarded as one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Originally designed as the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen is famed for its seasonal beauty, tranquil ponds, teahouses, and elegant landscape features — a masterpiece of Japanese garden design. 

In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful Japanese tea ceremony led by a tea master. Learn the rituals, etiquette, and spiritual philosophy behind this time-honored tradition, while savoring matcha green tea and seasonal sweets in a serene setting. (A unique experience with Tea Ceremony in the Garden)

Located in the heart of Kanazawa, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is one of Japan’s most iconic modern art institutions, celebrated for its innovative design and thought-provoking exhibitions. The museum is built in a circular shape with glass walls, allowing visitors to enter from any direction—symbolising openness and accessibility to art for everyone.

One of its most famous installations is Leandro Erlich’s “The Swimming Pool”, a playful, immersive artwork that creates the illusion of standing beneath the surface of a pool. It’s a must-visit spot for unique photos and an unforgettable visual experience.

The museum features rotating exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists from Japan and around the world, including interactive installations, large-scale sculptures, and multimedia pieces. The outdoor area also serves as an open art space, perfect for a relaxing stroll while exploring various public artworks.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a designer, or simply looking for creative inspiration, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is a highlight of any trip to Kanazawa—offering fresh perspectives and a truly engaging cultural experience.

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for thousands of vermilion torii gates. Hike scenic trails up Mount Inari, explore shrine buildings, and enjoy panoramic city views. Perfect for photography, spiritual experiences, and cultural sightseeing. Fun fact: The fox statues here are believed to be messengers of the Shinto god of rice.

Located in Kyoto’s historic Fushimi district, the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum offers a fascinating journey into Japan’s traditional sake-brewing culture. Established by Gekkeikan, one of Japan’s oldest and most renowned sake producers with over 380 years of history, the museum is housed in a beautifully preserved wooden brewery from the Meiji era.

Inside, visitors can explore exhibits showcasing vintage brewing tools, historical documents, and detailed displays explaining the craftsmanship behind sake production—from rice polishing to fermentation techniques unique to the Fushimi region. The tour provides a rare glimpse into how sake has evolved over the centuries while still preserving its deep cultural roots.

A highlight of the visit is the tasting experience, where you can sample several varieties of Gekkeikan sake, including limited-edition brews available only on-site. The serene atmosphere, combined with the aroma of cedar barrels and the charm of traditional architecture, makes this museum a must-visit for culture lovers and anyone curious about Japanese craftsmanship.

Perfect for history enthusiasts, foodies, and sake beginners alike, the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum offers an authentic and educational experience that enriches any Kyoto itinerary.

The Temple of the Golden Pavilion, known as Kinkaku-ji, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photographed landmarks. Covered in brilliant gold leaf and reflected beautifully in the surrounding pond, this Zen temple offers a breathtaking view in every season—from cherry blossoms in spring to snowy landscapes in winter. Its elegant architecture and peaceful garden setting make it a must-visit destination for first-time travelers and Japan enthusiasts alike.

Visitors can stroll along the garden paths, admire the shimmering pavilion from multiple angles, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere created by carefully designed landscaping, moss gardens, and traditional stone features. The mirror-like Kyoko-chi Pond enhances the temple’s beauty, making it a perfect spot for photography and quiet reflection.

Kinkaku-ji also offers cultural experiences such as teahouses and small shrines throughout the grounds, giving travelers a deeper look into Kyoto’s spiritual and artistic traditions. Whether you're exploring Kyoto for a day or planning a full cultural journey, the Golden Pavilion is an essential highlight—beautiful, serene, and unforgettable.

The Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum offers an immersive journey into Japan’s legendary warrior culture, right in the heart of Kyoto. Designed as an interactive museum rather than a traditional exhibition space, it allows visitors of all ages to step into the world of samurai and ninja through hands-on experiences and storytelling.

Inside the museum, you’ll explore authentic samurai armor, swords, and historical artifacts that trace the evolution of Japan’s warrior class. Expert guides share captivating stories about samurai philosophy, Bushido ethics, traditional weaponry, and the role these warriors played throughout Japanese history.

The highlight for many visitors is the interactive activities. You can try on real samurai armor, learn basic sword techniques using a practice katana, and even participate in a ninja star–throwing experience. These hands-on sessions make the museum especially appealing for families and anyone looking for a fun, memorable cultural experience.

Whether you're fascinated by Japanese history, martial arts, or simply looking for a unique Kyoto activity, the Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum offers an accessible and entertaining introduction to two of Japan’s most iconic traditions.

Hiroshima is famous across Japan for its distinctive style of okonomiyaki, a savory layered pancake cooked on a sizzling teppan grill. Joining an Okonomiyaki Experience in Hiroshima allows you not only to taste this local specialty but to step behind the grill and learn how it’s made, layer by delicious layer.

Unlike the mixed style found in Osaka, Hiroshima okonomiyaki is crafted in carefully arranged layers—starting with a thin crepe-like batter, followed by heaps of shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, pork slices, noodles, and finally a generous drizzle of Hiroshima’s signature sweet-savory okonomiyaki sauce. Watching the dish come together is part cooking lesson, part culinary performance.

During the experience, a local chef will guide you through each step, explaining regional ingredients, cooking techniques, and the cultural history behind Hiroshima’s most iconic comfort food. You’ll have the chance to flip your own okonomiyaki, customize toppings, and enjoy the dish hot off the grill.

Perfect for food lovers and families, this hands-on cooking activity offers a delicious introduction to Hiroshima’s food culture—one that you’re sure to remember long after your plate is empty.

Start your day in Hiroshima with your knowledgeable guide who will accompany you throughout the journey using public transportation. Together, you’ll take a short train and ferry ride to the beautiful island of Miyajima, famous for its iconic floating Torii Gate and serene natural beauty.

Explore the island’s highlights, including the historic Itsukushima Shrine, stroll through charming streets filled with local shops, and enjoy stunning views from Mount Misen if you wish. Your guide will share fascinating stories about Miyajima’s culture, history, and traditions, enriching your experience.

After a fulfilling day on the island, return by ferry and train to Hiroshima city center, where your guided tour concludes.

This carefully planned day offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature — all with the convenience and insight of a friendly local guide.

 You will begin with a private car journey of approximately one and a half hours to Himeji, where
 you will explore the magnificent 17th-century Himeji Castle and the adjacent Koko-en Garden, a beautifully designed traditional-style garden.

Himeji Castle is remarkably well-preserved in its original state, so please watch your step while exploring. You will need to remove your shoes before walking on some woodenfloors, and there are several steep wooden stairs to reach certain areas. Expect to be on your feet for about 3 to 3.5 hours during the visit.

Since the castle reopened in March 2015, visitor numbers have increased significantly. To manage crowds and protect this cultural treasure, numbered tickets are nowissued for entry to the Main Keep. This system helps reduce congestion and waiting times, but please note that there may be times when some visitors are unable to enter the Main Keep.

After exploring the castle, take a leisurely stroll through the serene Koko-en Garden.

Later, you will transfer by car for approximately one and a half hours to Osaka, where you will stay overnight.

Please be aware that today involves a substantial amount of walking, including many steps.

Depart from Osaka and journey to Nara with your private guide and driver for a seamless, stress-free day trip. Explore Nara Park, renowned for its friendly free-roaming deer, spacious greenery, and calm natural scenery. Continue to the iconic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha—one of Japan’s most important cultural and historical landmarks. After enjoying Nara’s rich heritage and peaceful atmosphere, return comfortably to Osaka.

Step into the playful and creative world of Japanese food innovation at the Cup Noodles Museum. This interactive experience celebrates the story of instant noodles and the imagination of its inventor, Momofuku Ando. Wander through engaging exhibits, learn how instant ramen became a global icon, and discover the surprising history behind one of Japan’s most beloved inventions.

The highlight of the visit is the “Make Your Own Cup Noodles” workshop, where you can customise your cup design, choose your favourite soup base, and select a mix of unique toppings to create a one-of-a-kind instant noodle cup to take home. Fun, colourful, and hands-on, this activity is perfect for families, food lovers, and anyone looking for a lighthearted cultural experience.

Whether you’re exploring Yokohama or Osaka, the Cup Noodles Museum offers a memorable blend of creativity, learning, and tasty fun — a must-try stop on your Japanese food journey.

Enjoy your afternoon in Osaka!