After arriving in Japan and completing arrival formalities, we’ll meet our local guide and group transfer by private coach to the vibrant city of Osaka, one of Japan’s most dynamic urban centres. Known throughout Japan for its warm hospitality, lively personality, and incredible food culture, Osaka offers a wonderful introduction to the country. Neon lights glow above bustling streets where tiny eateries, markets, and shops stay open late into the evening. Tonight, gather with your fellow Broad Escapes travellers for a welcome dinner, where we’ll toast the beginning of our Japanese adventure and begin getting to know one another.

Overnight Hotel Granvia Osaka (or similar) – 2 nights

Note:  This is a land only tour, however, Broad Escapes will suggest a designated flight from Toronto. The group transfer will be based on the recommended group flight arrival time.  Private transfers (additional cost) can be arranged for those arriving at a different time/date.  Flights from all gateways can be arranged through Broad Escapes.

Today we explore Osaka using the city’s efficient public transportation system, travelling like locals as we dive into the heart of the city. Our morning begins at Kuromon Market, one of Osaka’s most beloved culinary hubs. Here, vendors have been selling fresh seafood, produce, and street food specialties for generations. We’ll then wander through the vibrant streets of Shinsaibashi and elegant Midosuji Boulevard, where traditional shops sit beside sleek modern boutiques. A stop at Doguyasuji Street offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese culinary culture. This lively arcade is filled with specialty stores selling everything from delicate ceramics to the incredibly lifelike plastic food displays seen outside restaurants. Lunch today is a highlight — a guided street food experience that introduces us to Osaka’s famous food scene. Known as “Japan’s kitchen,” the city is beloved for its delicious casual cuisine. Later, we ascend the striking Umeda Sky Building for sweeping views over the Osaka skyline.

Leaving Osaka behind, we journey into the countryside toward the historic region of Asuka, considered the cradle of early Japanese civilization. Here we visit a traditional soy sauce brewery, where we’ll learn about the centuries-old fermentation process that creates one of Japan’s most essential ingredients. Continuing to the mountain town of Uda, we visit Murouji Temple, a serene and historic temple complex nestled among towering cedar trees. Known as the head temple of the Murouji sect of Shingon Buddhism, it has long been celebrated as a sacred place welcoming women. Later we arrive in Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. In Nara Park, gentle deer roam freely among temples and gardens. Our visit to Todaiji Temple reveals one of Japan’s most awe-inspiring sights — the Great Buddha Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in the world and home to an immense bronze Buddha statue.

Overnight Nara Hotel (or similar) – 1 night

Today we travel to Kyoto, Japan’s imperial capital for more than a thousand years and the country’s spiritual and cultural soul.  With 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kyoto offers an extraordinary window into Japan’s history, traditions, and aesthetics.  One of the city’s most iconic sights awaits at Fushimi Inari Shrine, where thousands of vermilion torii gates wind through forested hillsides.  Later, we enjoy a hands-on sushi workshop, learning the art of making makizushi before enjoying the delicious results of our efforts.  Our exploration continues with visits to important cultural sites including Nanzen-ji Temple and Ginkaku-ji (The Silver Pavilion), renowned for its tranquil moss garden and minimalist Zen sand garden.  This evening is yours to enjoy. You may wish to stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s atmospheric historic district known for its wooden teahouses and enduring geisha traditions.

Overnight Noku Kyoto Hotel (or similar) – 2 nights

This morning we visit Kiyomizu Temple, dramatically perched on a hillside overlooking the city. Its wooden terrace offers breathtaking views of Kyoto.  Next, we experience one of Japan’s most refined cultural rituals during a traditional tea ceremony, where every gesture reflects centuries of philosophy and artistry.  We also explore Nijo Castle, once the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, famous for its ornate interiors and unique “nightingale floors” designed to chirp softly underfoot. As we wander through the gardens the seasonal cherry blossoms may be beginning to bloom, creating a soft, ephemeral backdrop.  Tonight brings one of the most memorable cultural experiences of our journey.  During an intimate dinner, we’ll enjoy the rare opportunity to meet a Kyoto geisha. She will perform traditional dances and share insights into the dedication, discipline, and artistry required for this centuries-old profession.

Our journey continues north to Yamanaka Onsen, a charming hot spring town nestled in the mountains of the Kaga region.  Along the way we visit a traditional washi paper village in Echizen, where artisans continue the ancient craft of handmade Japanese paper.  The Kaga region is also famous for its exquisite Urushi lacquerware. During our visit with a local artisan, we’ll learn about the intricate process used to create these delicate works of art.  We’ll also stop at a local sake brewery for a tasting of Japan’s celebrated rice wine.  Before reaching our ryokan, we stretch our legs with a scenic walk through the Kakusenkei Gorge, where forested cliffs frame a peaceful river.  Tonight we experience traditional Japanese hospitality with a kaiseki dinner, followed by the opportunity to relax in the soothing onsen hot springs.

Overnight Mori no Sumika Hotel (or similar) – 2 nights

Enjoy a relaxed morning embracing the peaceful rhythm of onsen life. You may wish to start the day with another soothing soak in the hot spring baths or enjoy a quiet stroll through the surrounding countryside, where forested hills and traditional architecture create a timeless atmosphere. Later we explore the charming onsen town, with time to browse small local shops and discover artisan crafts unique to the region.  This afternoon we visit Yunokuni no Mori, a fascinating cultural village dedicated to preserving traditional Japanese crafts. Here we take part in a hands-on washi paper making experience, learning about the delicate process used to create this beautiful handmade paper that has been produced in Japan for over a thousand years.

Today we travel to Kanazawa, a beautifully preserved city known for its rich samurai and artisan heritage. We stroll through Kenrokuen Garden, widely considered one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens.  Our exploration continues in Higashi Chaya District, a historic geisha quarter lined with elegant wooden teahouses.  This evening is free to explore at leisure with your Broad Escapes host.

Overnight Hotel Mystays Kanazawa (or similar) – 1 night

Our scenic journey today takes us through breathtaking mountain landscapes to the beautifully preserved town of Takayama, where narrow streets, traditional merchant houses, and small sake breweries evoke the atmosphere of centuries past. Enjoy some free time to wander through the historic Sannomachi district, browsing local shops and soaking in the charm of this timeless town.  Later we continue to Matsumoto, a historic castle town nestled at the base of the Japanese Alps.  Here we visit Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most impressive and well-preserved feudal castles. Often referred to as the “Crow Castle” because of its striking black exterior, the fortress dates back to the late 16th century and is designated as a National Treasure of Japan.

Overnight Matsumoto Marunouchi Hotel (or similar) – 1 night

Today we journey toward the iconic Mt. Fuji region, stopping at scenic Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the most beautiful vantage points for viewing Japan’s most famous mountain. On clear days the reflection of Mt. Fuji on the lake creates a truly unforgettable sight. We also visit the Itchiku Kubota Kimono Museum, home to extraordinary textile works that revive a lost dyeing technique once used for elaborate kimonos. Continuing to Hakone, we enter a region known for its natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and soothing hot springs. Weather permitting, we will take in views of the dramatic Owakudani volcanic valley and the surrounding mountains.  After a day of sightseeing, the evening is yours to relax. You may wish to enjoy a peaceful soak in a traditional hot spring bath, a cherished Japanese ritual that perfectly complements a day exploring this scenic region.

Overnight Hakone Kowakien Tenyu (or similar) – 1 night

This morning, we experience one of Japan’s modern marvels as we board the Shinkansen bullet train bound for Tokyo.  In Tokyo we explore the nostalgic streets of Yanaka, one of the city’s few neighborhoods that retains an old-town atmosphere.  Later we visit Asakusa, home to the historic Sensoji Temple, and dive into Tokyo’s vibrant pop-culture scene in Akihabara.  As evening falls, we explore the neon energy of Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most lively entertainment districts.

Overnight Tokyo Prince Hotel (or similar)– 2 nights

Our final full day offers a fascinating exploration of this remarkable city where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge innovation. We visit the stylish boulevard of Omotesando, explore the youthful energy of Harajuku, and stroll through the elegant shopping district of Ginza. One of the highlights of the day is a visit to the extraordinary TeamLab Planets Digital Art Museum, where immersive digital installations respond to movement, light, and sound — creating a constantly changing sensory experience. Tonight, we gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships formed and the unforgettable moments shared on this remarkable journey through Japan.