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Luxury & Small Group Tours to Iya Valley, Japan

In Iya Valley, you can immerse yourself in rural Japan's traditional way of life and experience the stunning natural beauty of Tokushima prefecture on the island of Shikoku. The Iya Kazura Bridge, a vine suspension bridge used by samurai warriors, is one of the most popular attractions, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. You can stay in traditional thatched-roof houses and enjoy relaxing hot springs. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the valley's lush forests and clear streams or raft and canoe in the Oboke and Koboke gorges. Iya Valley also offers historic sites like the Biwa Waterfall, the Iya Fudoki-no-Oka Museum, and the Oku-Iya Niju Kazura-bashi Bridge for those interested in Japanese culture and history.

EXPERIENCES

A range of thrilling experiences handpicked by our experts. Don’t see one that’s just right for you? No problem. Our local insiders will create precisely what you want.

Explore Ochiai Village


Ochiai Village is a well-preserved traditional village located on the steep slopes of the Iya Valley. Wander through the village to experience a glimpse into rural Japan's past, with old thatched-roof farmhouses and terraced fields. You can also stay in a traditional Japanese house, known as a "kominka," to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

Vine Bridge Crossing


The Iya Valley is home to several ancient vine bridges, with Kazurabashi being the most famous. These unique bridges, made from woven vines, were once the only way to traverse the steep gorges. As you walk across these historic structures, take in the breathtaking views of the valley and the pristine Iya River below. Afterward, embark on a private river cruise, offering a serene and picturesque perspective of the valley's lush forests and towering cliffs.

Mount Tsurugi Trek


Mount Tsurugi, the second tallest peak in Western Japan, offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience. The trail takes you through lush forests, along rocky ridges, and past scenic viewpoints. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Iya Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Scarecrow Village


Nagoro, also known as Scarecrow Village, is a unique and eerie destination within the Iya Valley. Local artist Ayano Tsukimi has created over 350 life-sized scarecrows, which now populate the nearly abandoned village. These dolls represent former residents and can be found in various poses and settings, making for a fascinating and surreal exploration.

Peeing Boy Statue


The Biwa Waterfall, nestled deep in the Iya Valley, is a beautiful and serene destination, easily accessible by a short hiking trail. The waterfall is also home to a famous statue called the "Peeing Boy of Iya Gorge." The statue represents the bravery of local children who would prove their courage by standing on the edge of the cliff and urinating into the gorge below. This unusual landmark has become an iconic symbol of the Iya Valley's unique history and culture.

Iya Gorge


The Iya Gorge offers stunning views of steep cliffs, crystal-clear rivers, and lush vegetation. Take a leisurely walk along the river, or challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike to experience the natural beauty of the area.

AUTUMN IN TOHOKU: A CULTURAL AND NATURAL JOURNEY

"Autumn in Tohoku" captures the essence of Japan's fall, blending cultural immersion with natural splendour. From the samurai history of Aizu-Wakamatsu to the serene beauty of Oirase Stream and the apple charm of Hirosaki, this journey offers an unforgettable exploration of Tohoku's heritage and autumnal landscapes.

Interest

Wellbeing & Yoga, Culinary, History & Archaeology

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £19,990

BACK ROADS OF JAPAN

Embark on an 11-day journey across Japan's dynamic core. Begin in Tokyo, then visit Nagano for snow monkeys and temples. Discover Hagi's charm, enjoy rural homestays, and learn paper-making in Miho-misumi. Traverse Tottori's sand dunes before delving into Kyoto's shrine-filled landscape and vibrant city scene, blending urban adventures with cultural and natural splendours.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

11 days

Price For Person

From £3,149

Valid on

Nov 08 2025

CAPITALS OF THE EAST: TOKYO, SEOUL, BEIJING

Discover the heart of Asia on a luxury tour of Tokyo, Seoul, and Beijing. Experience ancient traditions, modern wonders, and culinary delights in three of the world's most vibrant capitals, all while enjoying first-class accommodations and personalized tours.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan, South Korea

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

11 days

Price For Person

From £12,670

CLASSIC JAPAN: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

Journey through Japan's iconic landscapes and cities, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, the art islands of Naoshima, and the culinary paradise of Osaka. Experience the fusion of ancient tradition and modern innovation in this unforgettable exploration.

Interest

People & Culture, Culinary, History & Archaeology

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £33,720

CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN AND CHINA

Embark on a captivating journey through Japan and China, exploring ancient temples, imperial palaces, and modern wonders, while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of culture, history, and tradition that defines these iconic lands.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

15 days

Price For Person

From £19,690

CULTURAL JEWELS OF JAPAN & CHINA TOUR

This 15-day tour offers an unforgettable journey through Japan and China, blending ancient traditions with modern marvels. From Tokyo's bustling streets to the Great Wall's historic ramparts, and Kyoto's serene temples to Shanghai's urban sophistication, immerse yourself in the diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history of these iconic destinations.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

15 days

Price For Person

From £19,720

DISCOVER JAPAN

Discover Japan in 14 days, touring Tokyo's skyscrapers, Takayama's charm, Hiroshima's Peace Park, and Kyoto's temples and Zen gardens. Marvel at Miyajima's floating Torii Gate, stroll by Mt Fuji's lakes, and relax at an Onsen Spa. Enjoy swift high-speed train travel and local culinary delights throughout.

Interest

People & Culture

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £3,999

Valid on

Dec 07 2025

ELEGANCE OF THE EAST: JAPAN & THAILAND UNVEILED

Explore the best of Japan and Thailand on this 12-day luxury tour. From Tokyo's neon lights to Kyoto's serene temples, and Bangkok's lively markets to Chiang Mai's tranquil beauty, experience a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and modern luxury.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Thailand, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £16,873

EPIC JOURNEY: FROM SEOUL'S PALACES TO OKINAWA'S PARADISE

Embark on an epic journey from the historic palaces of Seoul to the tropical paradise of Okinawa. This tour blends cultural immersion with natural wonders, offering experiences from traditional kimchi making to relaxing on pristine beaches. Perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan, South Korea

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £12,600

ICONIC JAPAN

Experience Japan's dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, from Tokyo's avant-garde buzz to serene countryside shrines and heritage villages. Explore geisha districts and picturesque gardens, savouring authentic Japanese cuisine from sushi to kaiseki. Engage in unique activities like gold-leaf painting, weaving together Japan's rich past and vibrant present in an unforgettable journey.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £4,949

Valid on

Jul 23 2025

CAPITALS OF THE EAST: TOKYO, SEOUL, BEIJING

Discover the heart of Asia on a luxury tour of Tokyo, Seoul, and Beijing. Experience ancient traditions, modern wonders, and culinary delights in three of the world's most vibrant capitals, all while enjoying first-class accommodations and personalized tours.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan, South Korea

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

11 days

Price For Person

From £12,670

CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN AND CHINA

Embark on a captivating journey through Japan and China, exploring ancient temples, imperial palaces, and modern wonders, while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of culture, history, and tradition that defines these iconic lands.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

15 days

Price For Person

From £19,690

CULTURAL JEWELS OF JAPAN & CHINA TOUR

This 15-day tour offers an unforgettable journey through Japan and China, blending ancient traditions with modern marvels. From Tokyo's bustling streets to the Great Wall's historic ramparts, and Kyoto's serene temples to Shanghai's urban sophistication, immerse yourself in the diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history of these iconic destinations.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

15 days

Price For Person

From £19,720

ELEGANCE OF THE EAST: JAPAN & THAILAND UNVEILED

Explore the best of Japan and Thailand on this 12-day luxury tour. From Tokyo's neon lights to Kyoto's serene temples, and Bangkok's lively markets to Chiang Mai's tranquil beauty, experience a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and modern luxury.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Thailand, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £16,873

EPIC JOURNEY: FROM SEOUL'S PALACES TO OKINAWA'S PARADISE

Embark on an epic journey from the historic palaces of Seoul to the tropical paradise of Okinawa. This tour blends cultural immersion with natural wonders, offering experiences from traditional kimchi making to relaxing on pristine beaches. Perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan, South Korea

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £12,600

AUTUMN IN TOHOKU: A CULTURAL AND NATURAL JOURNEY

"Autumn in Tohoku" captures the essence of Japan's fall, blending cultural immersion with natural splendour. From the samurai history of Aizu-Wakamatsu to the serene beauty of Oirase Stream and the apple charm of Hirosaki, this journey offers an unforgettable exploration of Tohoku's heritage and autumnal landscapes.

Interest

Wellbeing & Yoga, Culinary, History & Archaeology

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £19,990

CAPITALS OF THE EAST: TOKYO, SEOUL, BEIJING

Discover the heart of Asia on a luxury tour of Tokyo, Seoul, and Beijing. Experience ancient traditions, modern wonders, and culinary delights in three of the world's most vibrant capitals, all while enjoying first-class accommodations and personalized tours.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan, South Korea

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

11 days

Price For Person

From £12,670

CLASSIC JAPAN: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

Journey through Japan's iconic landscapes and cities, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, the art islands of Naoshima, and the culinary paradise of Osaka. Experience the fusion of ancient tradition and modern innovation in this unforgettable exploration.

Interest

People & Culture, Culinary, History & Archaeology

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £33,720

CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN AND CHINA

Embark on a captivating journey through Japan and China, exploring ancient temples, imperial palaces, and modern wonders, while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of culture, history, and tradition that defines these iconic lands.

Interest

Heritage, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

15 days

Price For Person

From £19,690

CULTURAL JEWELS OF JAPAN & CHINA TOUR

This 15-day tour offers an unforgettable journey through Japan and China, blending ancient traditions with modern marvels. From Tokyo's bustling streets to the Great Wall's historic ramparts, and Kyoto's serene temples to Shanghai's urban sophistication, immerse yourself in the diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history of these iconic destinations.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

China, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

15 days

Price For Person

From £19,720

ELEGANCE OF THE EAST: JAPAN & THAILAND UNVEILED

Explore the best of Japan and Thailand on this 12-day luxury tour. From Tokyo's neon lights to Kyoto's serene temples, and Bangkok's lively markets to Chiang Mai's tranquil beauty, experience a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and modern luxury.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Thailand, Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £16,873

EPIC JOURNEY: FROM SEOUL'S PALACES TO OKINAWA'S PARADISE

Embark on an epic journey from the historic palaces of Seoul to the tropical paradise of Okinawa. This tour blends cultural immersion with natural wonders, offering experiences from traditional kimchi making to relaxing on pristine beaches. Perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan, South Korea

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £12,600

ISLAND WONDERS OF JAPAN: A CULTURAL ODYSSEY

Embark on a journey through Japan's islands, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene spiritual sites of Awaji Island. This tour offers a deep dive into Japan's rich culture, ancient traditions, and breathtaking natural wonders, providing an unforgettable exploration of the country's heart and soul.

Interest

People & Culture, Culinary, History & Archaeology

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

17 days

JAPANESE ART AND CULTURE IMMERSION

Dive into Japan's rich culture and history on this 13-day journey. From Tokyo's modernity to Kyoto's imperial past, and the serene beauty of Miyajima, experience the art, tradition, and soul of Japan.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

13 days

JAPAN'S ACTIVE EXPLORER: HIKING AND BIKING ADVENTURE

Embark on an exhilarating journey through Japan's stunning landscapes and sacred sites. From cycling the Shimanami Kaido to hiking ancient pilgrimage trails, this adventure blends cultural immersion with active exploration, offering an unforgettable experience.

Interest

Heritage, Biking/Cycling, Hiking/Trekking

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

11 days

BACK ROADS OF JAPAN

Embark on an 11-day journey across Japan's dynamic core. Begin in Tokyo, then visit Nagano for snow monkeys and temples. Discover Hagi's charm, enjoy rural homestays, and learn paper-making in Miho-misumi. Traverse Tottori's sand dunes before delving into Kyoto's shrine-filled landscape and vibrant city scene, blending urban adventures with cultural and natural splendours.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

11 days

Price For Person

From £3,149

Valid on

Nov 08 2025

DISCOVER JAPAN

Discover Japan in 14 days, touring Tokyo's skyscrapers, Takayama's charm, Hiroshima's Peace Park, and Kyoto's temples and Zen gardens. Marvel at Miyajima's floating Torii Gate, stroll by Mt Fuji's lakes, and relax at an Onsen Spa. Enjoy swift high-speed train travel and local culinary delights throughout.

Interest

People & Culture

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

14 days

Price For Person

From £3,999

Valid on

Dec 07 2025

ICONIC JAPAN

Experience Japan's dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, from Tokyo's avant-garde buzz to serene countryside shrines and heritage villages. Explore geisha districts and picturesque gardens, savouring authentic Japanese cuisine from sushi to kaiseki. Engage in unique activities like gold-leaf painting, weaving together Japan's rich past and vibrant present in an unforgettable journey.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

12 days

Price For Person

From £4,949

Valid on

Jul 23 2025

JAPAN EXPRESS: OSAKA TO TOKYO

Take this nine-day journey through Japan from Osaka to Tokyo. Visit Koyasan's spiritual heart, Hiroshima's history, Miyajima Island, and Kyoto's heritage sites. Relax in Hakone with a Lake Ashino-ko boat ride and kaiseki meal. End in Tokyo, experiencing a blend of spiritual rituals, scenic views, historical landmarks, and urban vibrancy.

Interest

People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

9 days

JAPAN FAMILY JOURNEY: FROM ANCIENT TO MODERN TIMES

Journey through Japan's contrasts, from Tokyo's anime streets to Nagano's snow monkeys and Kyoto's imperial splendour. Immerse in a fusion of ancient traditions and modernity, visiting serene shrines and temples, mastering sumo and samurai arts, and savouring wasabi delicacies. This unforgettable trip offers a rich tapestry of Japanese culture.

Interest

Heritage, People & Culture, Art & Architecture

Destination

Japan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

11 days

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“I would like to thank Asian Geographical Expeditions staff for organising a perfect holiday for my family to Dubai, Sri Lanka and the Maldives…”

Maldives, Sri Lanka, UAE
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A COUPLE FROM KENT

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Bhutan, Nepal
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A COUPLE FROM ESSEX

“The history and cultural specialists also deserve a mention for the way they illuminated the heritage of the places we visited, as does the Buddhist scholar with his apparently boundless knowledge.”

Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand
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Why travel with us

Tailored Luxury

Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences

Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility

Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia

Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance

Expert Knowledge

Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel

Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately

Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences

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Established in 2014

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