Private Travel
Japan
Private
Private Tour
Tokyo to Tokyo – 12 Days
Join the "Spiritual North Japan Journey" and delve into Japan’s stunning landscapes and sacred sites. Start in Tokyo, where modernity meets tradition. Explore the city’s markets, temples and hidden observation decks to get a taste of Japan. Travel by bullet train to Oirase Stream, Mt. Hakkoda, Aomori and Akita and experience Japan’s cultural diversity.
Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Shirakami Sanchi and the sacred mountains of Dewa in Tsuruoka where spirituality permeates through ancient forests and traditional rituals. End your journey in Osaka, Japan’s food heaven, before visiting the art haven of Naoshima Island. This tour is an in-depth journey of Japan’s natural beauty, spiritual depth and cultural richness, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
OIRASE STREAM & LAKE TOWADA: Cycle through the mystical Oirase Gorge, a haven of crystal-clear streams and woodland. Discover the beauty of Lake Towada, a lake in a volcanic caldera and relax in traditional onsen baths surrounded by nature’s serenity, an introduction to northern Japan’s landscapes.
SHIRAKAMI SANCHI & AOIKE LAKE: Enter the UNESCO-listed beech forests of Shirakami Sanchi. Hike to the Anmon Falls and marvel at Aoike, a cobalt-blue lake of incredible clarity. This natural sanctuary is ancient Japan and feels peaceful, pure and connected to nature.
MT. HAGURO & DEWA SANZAN PILGRIMAGE: Climb Mt. Haguro’s 2,446 stone steps beneath towering cedars and discover hidden symbols, a five-tiered pagoda and sacred shrines. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims across the Dewa Sanzan, a symbolic journey of birth, death and rebirth in Japan’s most sacred landscape.
FESTIVALS & LIVING TRADITIONS: Join in the Tanabata, Neputa and Kanto festivals and experience Japan’s local culture. See Namahage rituals and samurai traditions in Kakunodate and get a glimpse into the seasonal rhythms and folklore of northern Japan.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Private Travel
Moderate
Premium
Embark on a 12-days journey through Japan's breathtaking landscapes and spiritual sites. From Tokyo's bustling streets to the serene beauty of Oirase Stream and the sacred mountains of Dewa, experience the country's rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders.
Start your journey in Tokyo, the heart of Japan where tradition and modernity collide. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you to your chosen accommodation and get you ready to explore a city that seamlessly blends ancient temples and gardens with fashion and food. Tokyo, under the watchful eye of Mt. Fuji, is a city of endless depth from its bustling markets to the peaceful, meditative spaces that dot the city. Get ready to immerse yourself in the Tokyo vibe and start your Japanese adventure.
Take the shinkansen to Aomori Prefecture and your gateway to the natural beauty of Oirase. This leg of your trip takes you to the serene Oirase Stream, a haven of waterfalls and forests. Spend the afternoon walking along the well-maintained paths that lead you into the heart of Oirase’s tranquility. The area is famous for its colourful woods and meandering mountain streams and is the perfect retreat into nature. End your day with a relaxing soak in the onsen hot spring bath at your hotel, a traditional Japanese experience that will relax and rejuvenate you.
Today you’ll experience Oirase’s natural beauty from the saddle of a bike. Ride along the river, upstream to Lake Towada. This ride offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the deep, blue lake ahead. Stop at observation decks along the way to take in the peaceful lake against the backdrop of Mt. Hakkoda. Opt for a leisurely sightseeing cruise on Lake Towada or continue to ride around the lake. Back at your lodgings the rest of the day is yours to do as you please, maybe with a meal, a walk or another onsen.
Travel to Mt. Hakkoda where the ropeway takes you into the alpine zone and you can see the Tsugaru Plains, Mutsu Bay and Hokkaido from 4,330 feet. Descend to Aomori City, a city of apples, sake and seafood. Have a unique culinary experience at Furukawa Fish Market and make your own seafood donburi at Nokkedon. Enjoy apple delights at A-Factory before visiting the Aomori Contemporary Art Centre to see local and international art within Tadao Ando’s architectural masterpiece. The day is a cultural feast from the top of Mt. Hakkoda to the Aomori Nebuta Festival if you’re here during this time.
Travel to Inakadate Village, the birthplace of Tanbo Art where rice paddies become huge, colourful artworks. View these living masterpieces from the village’s viewing tower. Visit the workshop of the famous swordsmith Kunihiro then head to Hirosaki. Explore Hirosaki Castle Park’s historic fortifications set in beautiful landscapes. See Hirosaki’s French influenced architecture and Tugaru lacquerware at the Aomori Lacquerware Federation. If timing allows, see the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, a festival of light and colour.
Spend the day in the majestic Shirakami Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage site of virgin beech forests. Start with an IMAX presentation then walk through the forest. Hike to the Anmon Falls for stunning views of the waterfalls and discover the beautiful Aoike Lake, a natural wonder in the heart of the forest. This day in Shirakami Sanchi will connect you with nature’s untouched beauty and the serene, primeval landscapes of Japan.
Start the day with a drive to Odate in Akita Prefecture and visit the Akita Inu Museum to learn about the heritage of the Akita dog breed. Visit Kurikyu Bentwood and learn about the tradition of magewappa craftsmanship and how these beautiful bentwood products are made. Go to the Oga Peninsula and experience the local culture and Namahage tradition where men wear fearsome demon masks in a lively ritual. Lunch at the Mt. Kampu Revolving Observatory offers stunning views and local cuisine like hinai chicken oyaku-don. The afternoon is spent deeper into Namahage culture at the Namahage Museum and a performance at the Oga Shinzan Folklore Museum. See the coastal beauty of Cape Nyudo and Godzilla Rock before returning to Akita. If you’re here in August, experience the Kanto Matsuri, a pole lantern festival of incredible skill and artistry.
Today we travel to Sendai via the historic samurai town of Kakunodate. Explore the Samurai District’s preserved residences turned museums and get a glimpse into the lives of Japan’s famous warriors. A rickshaw ride through Kakunodate and a visit to Denshokan Museum, which celebrates Akita’s birch craft, precede your train to Sendai. Immerse yourself in the Tanabata Festival where colorful streamers turn the city into a bright, festive forest. Enjoy stage performances, traditional dances and a fireworks display. The shopping arcades are perfect for buying silk fabric and paper crafts and local cuisine.
Visit the Yamadera Risshaku Temple, a historic mountain temple founded in 860 CE. The temple complex is a serene journey through its wooden and stone structures and culminates in stunning summit views. The nearby Yamadera Basho Memorial Museum is a peaceful tea offering to the poet Matsuo Basho. In Tendo, pick fruit at a local orchard as Yamagata is famous for its cherries. After checking into your hotel in Yamagata City, explore the heritage Western-style buildings and Kajo Castle Park, the remains of Yamagata Castle. Seasonal visitors can also enjoy the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival, a parade of dance and colour through the city streets.
Visit Tsuruoka, home to Mt. Haguro, one of Japan’s Three Mountains of Dewa. Climb 2,446 stone steps through an ancient cedar forest, passing the five-story Gojunoto Pagoda and hidden auspicious figures. At the summit, learn about the region’s spiritual heritage at the Dewan Sanzan Historical Museum and the shrine. Lunch is shojin ryori, the monks’ vegetarian diet, at Saikan. The afternoon is free; choose between the world’s largest jellyfish tank at Kamo Aquarium or Foodever, the hub of Tsuruoka’s UNESCO-recognized gastronomy.
Spend the day on the sacred mountains of Dewa, the cycle of birth, death and rebirth. Start with a challenging hike to Mt. Gassan’s summit, with stunning, treeless views and a spiritual purification at the shrine. Choose your path to Mt. Yudono: back to Gassan’s 8th station or a direct, green trek to emphasize the mountain’s mystique. Respect the sanctity of Mt. Yudono’s shrine, where photography and talking are forbidden, as it is a place of rebirth.
End your journey as you depart from Shonai Airport to Tokyo and connect to your onward journey. Reflect on the beauty, culture and spirituality of Japan’s landscapes and sacred sites and take home memories of a journey that goes beyond tourism.
This tour is inspired by the allure of Japan's breathtaking landscapes and the depth of its spiritual heritage. This expedition stands out for travellers due to its blend of cultural destinations, unique experiences, and the opportunity to immerse in unique cultures.
It is intricately designed for those intrigued by nature, culture, and spirituality, offering an intimate exploration of Japan's serene natural beauty, ancient spiritual sites, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Participants will find themselves captivated by UNESCO World Heritage sites, traditional rituals, and the country's culinary delights, making it perfect for those looking to dive deep into the essence of Japan's rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders.
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
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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.
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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.
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People & Culture, Culinary, History & Archaeology
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People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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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.
Heritage, Art & Architecture
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Heritage, Biking/Cycling, Hiking/Trekking
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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.
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People & Culture
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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.
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The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
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
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
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
