Japan Travel Insights

Active Tour of Japan's Cities & Temples - 11 Days

From sprawling Tokyo to peaceful Mount Koya, experience the full spectrum of Japanese culture on this 11-day tour by train, car, foot, and bicycle. Eat your way through Tokyo and Osaka's lively food markets and glimpse Mount Fuji while cycling around Lake Kawaguchiko. Walk through Fushimi Inari's unforgettable 10,000 torii gates and stroll among geisha in Kyoto's Gion District. End your discovery immersed in Buddhist rituals as you spend the night in a temple on Mount Koya.

Japan Cultural Discovery: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka - 11 Days

Experience Japan's culture through its food, architecture, sports, and art on this 11-day tour from Tokyo to Osaka. Learn about sushi-making and Sumo in Tokyo, then join locals in their daily shopping at Tsukiji Outer Fish Market. Soak in the hot springs of Hakone and sail across Lake Kawaguchi for Mount Fuji views. Walk among geisha and stroll through Fushimi Inari's red torii gates in Kyoto, then get your fill of street food in the culinary hotspot of Osaka.

Family-Friendly Tour of Japan's Cities: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 11 Days

Japan is a wonderland for families, with cultural, natural, and modern attractions that will appeal to all ages. This 11-day trip visits three of the country's most significant cities—Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—with an itinerary chock-full of kid-friendly outings and excursions. Broaden little ones' minds as they explore colorful temples and shrines, meet the local wildlife, and sample exotic new foods—then reward their patience with visits to Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan.

9 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days in Japan, you can visit three to six destinations. Foodies and first-timers can hit the highlights and taste their way around Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Nature and culture enthusiasts can visit villages and hike the Nakasendo Trail in Central Japan. The Northern Japan itinerary is suited to travelers interested in Hokkaido and families with little ones that will love kid-friendly activities like Oshino Ninja Village. Active travelers who prefer to venture independently can cycle, kayak, and hike on the self-guided tour.

Touring Northern Japan - 9 Days

Get ready for a tour that celebrates the history, beauty, and culture of Japan. This nine-day adventure focuses on the north, where you'll enjoy city tours of Tokyo, visit iconic Mount Fuji, and (if you visit in spring) see the cherry blossoms in bloom. Rounding out the experience is a trip to the historic port city of Otaru and the far north ski hub of Sapporo.

12 Days in Japan - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 12 days, you can explore as few as four destinations, like Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka, or over eight on a faster-paced trip, adding in lesser-known locales like Kurashiki, Oda City, and Hagi. Cover the best of Japan and include an island visit to Okinawa, Japan's "Hawaii," indulge in the culinary delights and sake on a food-forward tour, or discover stunning nature from Lake Kawaguchi to peaceful gardens in Kanazawa. Or consider a multiday trek on the historic Nakasendo Trail.

13 Days in Japan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 13 days, you can experience the highlights of five or six cities, like those of Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka, on a history-focused tour by train or swap out Hakone and add Nagoya and Kobe to discover modern and traditional Japan. Slow the pace down and eat sushi at Tsukiji Market, see Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi, and pay your respects in Hiroshima. Alternatively, follow a pilgrimage trail on Shikoku Island to discover some of Japan's most prestigious temples.

Best of Japan: Osaka to Tokyo - 12 Days

Spend 12 days exploring the best of Japan, including its most important cities. Start with a visit to Osaka's brightly-lit city center before exploring Kyoto's traditional historic neighborhoods and quiet temples. Learn about World War II history in Hiroshima, then hop on a plane to enjoy Okinawa's stunning beaches. End the trip in the exciting capital of Tokyo, one of the world's busiest and most futuristic cities.

Highlights of Japan - 15 Days

This is the ultimate tour for first-time visitors in Japan and includes a mix of classic activities and lesser-known surprises. Kick off the adventure with several days in Tokyo, and then make your way south by bullet train—using your Japan Rail Pass. You'll stay a night with a small-town family in Izumo, explore UNESCO-listed temples in Kyoto, and ferry to remote islands known for caves and beautiful beaches. Fly back to Tokyo for one more night in the exciting capital to end the tour.

Japan's Shikoku Pilgrim Trail - 13 Days

This 13-day adventure checks off several Buddhist temples along a famous pilgrimage trail on Japan's remote Shikoku Island. Starting in Osaka, you'll transfer to Tokushima for a dose of urban culture. Then set off toward some of the trail's 88 temples as you pass through lush greenery and towering mountains peppered with hot springs. This self-guided tour offers accommodations and side trips for an utterly customizable trip.

Discover Modern & Traditional Japan - 13 Days

Discover modern and traditional aspects of Japan in 13 days, touching down in skyscraper-studded Tokyo, where ancient temples meet neon shopping districts, and then explore the country by futuristic bullet train. You'll visit sacred shrines in Osaka and grand castles in Kyoto and ride a gondola to the top of Kobe's Mount Rokko. The trip ends with a sailing adventure to Miyajima in Hiroshima Bay, known as the "Island of the Gods" for its mystical forests and shrines.

11 Days in Japan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Thanks to efficient public transportation, you can fit a lot into 11 days in Japan. First-timers and families can take a Japan highlight tour that comprises Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka or opt for the faster-paced itinerary that includes a Hiroshima visit. History enthusiasts and cherry blossom chasers will enjoy scenic heritage sites, such as Takayama, on a history-focused trip, while foodies can sample local flavors in several cities, including Osaka, the "nation's kitchen," on the "Culinary Heritage" tour.

Japan's Golden Route: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 15 Days

Travel along Japan's "Golden Route," starting in Tokyo. Soak up the city as you enjoy food tours, art exhibits, a calligraphy workshop, and watching a sumo wrestling practice. Then head to Kyoto to visit shrines and castles, meet geisha, and savor a traditional multicourse meal. Spot deer in Nara, then move on to Osaka for a food tour and river cruise and explore Hiroshima and Miyajima. Back in Tokyo, learn about Japanese sword-making, see the city's high-tech attractions, and visit Kamakura.

Ultimate Japan Tour: Tokyo to Hiroshima & Kanazawa - 15 Days

Cover the highlights of Japan as you travel in a wide loop across the country's south. Explore Tokyo's most exciting neighborhoods, learn about the important World War II history of Hiroshima, experience tradition with a tea ceremony and geisha photoshoot in Kyoto, and wander the quaint streets of Takayama and Kanazawa. Visit the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go and take a dip in Hakone's hot springs, then return to Tokyo for more sightseeing.

8 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can incorporate a cultural highlights tour by seeing geisha and tucking into Japanese cuisine or experience the best of Tokyo and Kyoto in eight days, with additional day trips to Hakone, Nara, and Arashiyama. Alternatively, chase cherry blossoms and spot the iconic Mount Fuji as you travel from Osaka to the capital. Discover the world-famous Senso-ji Shrine and the Yasaka Pagoda in Higashiyama. Or don your winter gear and set off on the Naksendo Trail, sleeping in a different ancient village each night.

Japan's Natural Beauty From Lakes to Mountains - 12 Days

Experience the many layers of Japanese culture and its landscapes on this 12-day tour. Enjoy Tokyo and Osaka's energetic city life balanced with nature and fresh air as you walk through Kyoto's calm bamboo forests and Takayama and Kanazawa's gardens and shrines. Stand next to a towering Great Buddha in Kamakura, and pass 10,000 red torii gates at Fushimi Inari. Get your camera ready for Mount Fuji views at Lake Kawaguchi and browse the busy Nishiki Market in Kyoto.

From Tokyo to Kyoto: Japan's Flavors & Ceremonies - 12 Days

Dash around Japan by bullet train to discover the archipelago's tastes, ceremonies, and exciting nightlife. Learn how to make sushi in Tokyo and explore its oldest temple Senso-ji. In Kyoto's Gion district, discover the world of becoming a geisha. Warm yourself up by sipping sakes at a brewery outside of Hiroshima and soaking in an onsen in Hakone. Take time to relax and feel the pulse of Japan's cities on this 12-day tour.

Historic Japan: Tokyo to Nagano - 11 Days

Explore Japan's historic spots as you travel in a loop from Tokyo to Nagano. Start by discovering Tokyo's sights, then head to Nikko for some hiking. Visit Kyoto, Japan's historic capital, to see temples, meet geisha and participate in a traditional tea ceremony. See Himeji Castle, wander the quaint streets of Takayama, and explore UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go. Transfer to Kanazawa for sightseeing, art, and a gold leaf workshop, ending with a lesson about ninjas and samurai in Nagano.

Highlights & History of Japan by Train - 13 Days

See some of Japan's most famous sites while exploring the country by bullet train on this 13-day tour. After learning about Tokyo's history and culture, visit Nikko for a rejuvenating hike, Kamakura to explore its shrines and temples, and Hakone, where you can relax in its thermal waters. Then it's on to Kyoto to admire the beautiful shrine of Fushimi Inari and Hiroshima to reflect on the tragic events there before ending your adventure in Osaka to look around its famous castle.

Cultural Trip to Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 9 Days

Japan's culture is an intoxicating mix of old and new. Staying in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka over nine activity-filled days, you'll get under the skin of both sides of this fascinating country. See the historical and futuristic sides of Tokyo and cruise among the neon lights of Osaka. Immerse yourself in Japanese tradition, from watching a sumo wrestling practice to sampling whiskey at a top distillery. You'll also walk among Kyoto's serene shrines and temples and get to know geisha culture.

Highlights of Japan - 11 Days

Welcome to Japan! Dive into the diverse culture of this fascinating island nation on an 11-day part-guided itinerary. Sing karaoke and check out the fashions of futuristic Tokyo, the world's biggest city, and take in the neon lights of playful Osaka on a river cruise. Along with traditional experiences, such as a tea ceremony in Kyoto and exploring the serene grounds of several temples and shrines, this tour is a whirlwind introduction to Japan's contrasts of old and new.

Best of Japan: Tokyo to Osaka - 11 Days

Head south across Japan as you see the country's highlights by train. In Tokyo, explore the Shinjuku district and visit shrines, temples, and shopping areas. Take a day trip to Mount Fuji, then move on to Kanazawa for museums and a gold leaf workshop. Visit the traditional village of Shirakawa-go, then see Kyoto's sights and participate in a tea ceremony. Spot deer in Nara, wander through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, explore Miyajima island, and discover Osaka on a food tour before heading home.

History, Tradition & Culture: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Osaka - 12 Days

Shop, eat, and explore your way through Japan's four major cities in this diverse 12-day itinerary. Start in Tokyo, walking around the best shopping precincts and witnessing the city's thrilling blend of ultramodern technology and ancient landmarks. Connect with your inner Zen in Kyoto, sample the buzzing street food scene in trendy Osaka, and witness the historical monuments of Hiroshima.

Traditional Japan: Tokyo, Kanazawa & Kyoto - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture as you explore some of the highlights of this fascinating country. Start in Tokyo, where you'll visit Asakusa District and discover Senso-ji Shrine. Get zen as you spend time in the historic gardens of Kanazawa, then visit Shirakawa-go to see villages of 250-year-old thatched-roof houses. Head to Kyoto to wander the streets of the Gion District, stroll under 10,000 red torii (gates) at Fushimi Inari Shrine, and get lost in a maze of bamboo at Arashiyama.

Japan's Highlights: Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara & Osaka - 8 Days

Hit the highlights of Japan on this eight-day adventure that takes you west from Tokyo to Osaka. After getting to know the massive metropolis of Tokyo, head to Kyoto to witness the contrast between traditional versus modern culture in its markets, temples, and palaces. Spend some downtime among the peaceful shrines and friendly deer of Nara, then finish your trip in vibrant Osaka, sampling regional specialties on a food tour and bar-hopping through neon-lit neighborhoods to your heart's content.

Japan Cherry Blossom Tour - 8 Days

Japan is world-famous for its stunning panoramas of cherry blossoms. On this springtime trip, you'll see the flowers while discovering the country's highlights by train. Begin by exploring Osaka on a river cruise and food tour. Transfer to the historic city of Kyoto for sightseeing and temples, then move on to Hakone, where you'll visit hot springs and stay in a traditional ryokan inn. Top off your experience with some cherry blossom-spotting excursions in Tokyo and en route to Mount Fuji.

Best of Tokyo & Kyoto - 6 Days

On this adventure, you'll see Japan's highlights while visiting two of its most famous cities. Begin in bustling Tokyo and discover the urban nightlife and explore temples and shopping streets on a guided tour. Then take a day trip to Lake Kawaguchiko for views of Mount Fuji. Next, transfer to Kyoto and get to know its temples and historic neighborhoods, opting for a traditional tea ceremony. Cap off your journey with a day trip to Nara, famous for its scenic deer park.

Best of Tokyo, Hakone & Kyoto - 8 Days

Explore the best of Japan's world-famous highlights. Begin by wandering through Tokyo's parks, museums, temples, and neon-lit shopping areas. Then head to Hakone, where you'll stay in a traditional ryokan inn, and experience a multicourse kaiseki dinner and hot spring. Move on to Kyoto to explore markets, temples, and castles, then take a day trip to Nara to see its famed deer park before returning to Kyoto for one last day of sightseeing.

Explore Nature in Traditional Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka - 9 Days

Explore Japan's natural beauty and intricate rituals on this fascinating nine-day itinerary. You'll travel back in time in Tokyo by wandering the streets in a kimono. Head to Hakone to cruise on Lake Ashi, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji, and finish the day in soothing natural thermal springs. Continue to Kyoto for Buddhist temples, gardens, palaces, and shrines, then end in Osaka to revel in the city's dynamic "foodie" districts.

2 Weeks in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend in Japan, you can take a classic tour around the country's highlights—including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima—or opt for an itinerary focusing specifically on culture and history. Travelers with children love a family-oriented tour featuring hands-on activities, like sushi-making classes and a samurai sword-fighting course, plus visits to two major theme parks. Adventurous visitors opt for an off-the-beaten-path journey around Japan's hidden gems or an active trip around the country's wintry landscapes.

10 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Japan, you can choose to tour Japan's major cities—Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Or get away from the bright lights and crowds, choosing a trip through Japan's natural wonders, from towering bamboo groves to mountain peaks to rivers lined with cherry blossom trees. If you're traveling with children, consider a family-friendly journey that includes a visit to a ninja theme park and a ride on one of the world's steepest roller coasters. Adventure seekers might follow in the footsteps of samurai on a self-guided walking tour of the Nakasendo Trail.

1 Week in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week to spend in Japan, some travelers focus on Tokyo, adding side trips to Hiroshima and Mount Fuji. If you're eager to experience a more traditional side of Japanese culture, consider a weeklong itinerary that takes you to Osaka, Kyoto, the shrines of Nara, and the sacred temples of Koyosan. Photographers might focus on scenic Japan, from charming villages and quiet gardens to gorgeous natural landscapes. And if you visit in spring, consider a cherry blossom tour where you'll have ample opportunities to see the famed pink flowers in bloom.

5 Days in Japan - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have just five days to spend in Japan, you could focus your energy on the ultra-modern city of Tokyo. Or divide your time between Tokyo and the more traditional Kyoto, visiting the most famous shrine in the country. A more ambitious itinerary takes you to several cities, including Hiroshima and Osaka, while a simpler trip plan focuses solely on the culture and history of Kyoto. Another alternative is to get away from the crowds and hike along the historic Nakasendo Trail, following the footsteps of feudal lords and samurai on the mountain path connecting Kyoto and Tokyo.

Winter in Japan: Skiing, Sumo, Sake & More - 14 Days

Ski, snowboard, and sip sake on this two-week adventure around Japan's wintry landscapes. From Kyoto to Tokyo, this active journey will give you the opportunity to see both the modern and traditional sides of Japan. You'll also see futuristic art and have some fun on the slopes of Niigata, dipping in the nearby natural hot springs afterward.

Explore Nature on the Island of Kyushu - 10 Days

Steaming hot springs, a smoking volcano, quiet canals, a ghostly island — on this 10-day adventure, you'll focus on outdoor attractions on the Japanese island of Kyushu. Start in the capital city of Fukuoka, day-tripping to peaceful Yanagawa, a Venice-like town laced with canals. Then spend several days exploring Beppu, famous for its natural hot springs, before continuing to the grasslands and mountains of Aso. Climb Mount Aso, Japan's largest active volcano, before wrapping up the trip in Nagasaki with a boat ride to a deserted island and a cable car journey to one of the world's best night views.

Family Adventure in Japan - 10 Days

This action-packed 10-day adventure around Japan is perfect for families! The itinerary leads you from the neon lights, futuristic interactive art, and whimsical character cafés of Tokyo to peaceful Lake Kawaguchi, where you can visit a nearby ninja theme park or ride one of the steepest roller coasters in the world. Then it's onward to Kyoto, where you'll learn how to make creative Japanese-style sweets and attend a tea ceremony. Travelers of all ages will enjoy visiting temples, bamboo groves, and shrines on the last few days of the trip in Arashiyama, Nara, and Osaka.

Japan Cherry Blossom Tour - 7 Days

The sakura, or cherry blossom, is the national flower of Japan and a symbol of renewal. If you're lucky enough to travel to Japan during the brief blooming season (spring), you'll be treated to the sight of pale pink flowers almost everywhere you look. This seven-day tour takes you to top sakura-spotting destinations in Osaka, Kyoto, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, with breaks for cultural sightseeing. You'll end the itinerary with a dedicated cherry blossom tour around Tokyo, including classic photo ops of Mount Fuji in the distance.

Scenic Japan - 7 Days

This photogenic seven-day tour of Japan offers an unbeatable mix of popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path gems. You'll experience the country's beauty, starting in vibrant Tokyo and continuing to the temples, shines, and landscaped gardens of Kanazawa. Side-trip to Shirakawago, where charming wooden farmhouses were built to withstand heavy snow in winter—if you're lucky, you'll see the village under a blanket of white! Then end with two days in Kyoto, learning about geisha culture and traditional arts.

Discover Japan's Cities - 7 Days

This weeklong journey focuses on Japan's busy cities, including ultra-modern Tokyo and historic Hiroshima. You'll explore the contemporary art scene, dine in a character café, walk around streets lit up with neon at night, and tour temples and historic sites. But the itinerary also features quieter experiences, featuring day trips to the shrines of Nara, a traditional village where you'll learn about the art of kimono design, and a lookout point where you'll get the best photo ops of snow-capped Mount Fuji.

Explore Old & New in Japan - 7 Days

Slow down and savor the spiritual and traditional elements of Japan on this weeklong trip. You'll start by sampling regional street food in Osaka, nicknamed "the kitchen of Japan," followed by a day of sightseeing with a local guide. Then you'll move on to the holy temple complex of Koyasan, where you'll have the chance to observe monks during their early morning prayers. Continue to Kyoto, the ancient imperial capital of Japan, to learn about traditional fine arts, including tea ceremonies and flower arranging. Side-trip to the forest trails and UNESCO-honored temples of Nara before the trip comes to an end.

Explore Japan's Cities - 5 Days

This short but wide-ranging tour of Japanese cities takes you to Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Tokyo—not to mention the mountainous resort town of Hakone. In just five days, you'll see the tallest building in Japan, gaze at Mount Fuji in the distance, go on a guided tour of the historic temples and shrines of Kyoto, and learn about the devastating World War II bombing of Hiroshima before exploring the city's contemporary downtown. Dip in the natural hot springs of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, tour Osaka Castle, and appreciate the refinement of traditional Japanese arts.

Discover Japanese Culture in Kyoto - 5 Days

Enjoy the quiet scenery and traditional Japanese culture in Kyoto on this refreshing adventure. In just five days, you'll visit sacred shrines, wander through ancient forests, take a boat cruise down a river lined with cherry blossoms, practice meditation with a Buddhist monk, and learn about the traditional arts of calligraphy and flower arranging. You'll also detour to the historic city of Nara, famed for its giant Buddha statue and resident population of deer, before returning to Kyoto for one last evening of sampling sushi and sake.

Urban Adventure in Tokyo - 5 Days

From sumo and sake to ultra-contemporary art and historic shrines, this five-day adventure in Tokyo offers a well-balanced mix of traditional Japanese culture and modern urban life. As you explore one of the world's most vibrant cities, you'll go back in time, visiting landmark shrines, as well as a museum and a cultural theme park, to learn about Edo-era Japan. After witnessing sumo wrestlers in training and tasting sake, you'll see edgy, interactive art at TeamLab and bar-hop in the Golden Gai district.

Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Self-Guided Walking Tour - 10 Days

Spend 10 days walking and hiking Shikoku's 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail, visiting historic Buddhist temples along the way. You'll see pilgrims, easily identified by their white clothing and walking staff, who spend weeks on the trail visiting all 88 temples. As you explore castles, small villages, and larger communities, sample local specialties and stay in traditional inns or pilgrims' lodgings, you'll get a real taste of Shikoku's unique culture.

In the Shadow of Mountains: From Sea to Sea in Southern Japan - 12 Days

Explore the coast of the Sea of Japan, then head across southern Japan to visit towns and islands on the Seto Inland Sea. You'll spend twelve days discovering Japanese history and culture as you visit shrines, temples, castles, museums, and a preserved silver mine. See how miso paste, sake, and pottery are made and soak in hot spring baths. You'll come away with a true appreciation for the traditions and history of southern Japan.

Family Adventure in Japan - 14 Days

Offering ancient traditions and futuristic fun, Japan is filled with one-of-a-kind attractions for the young—and the young at heart. This two-week family-friendly itinerary features a great mix of cultural sightseeing and hands-on activities, like a sushi class and a samurai sword-fighting course. You'll explore the character cafés and comic book shops of Tokyo, boat on a lake near Mount Fuji, and wander through towering groves of bamboo in Arashiyama, taking time to learn about history in Hiroshima and Kyoto. Rounding out the trip are day trips to two world-class theme parks: Disney Sea and Universal Studios Japan. This action-packed journey is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Family Adventure in Japan: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto - 10 Days

Traveling together as a family is such a special experience, and this 10-day action-packed adventure is specifically designed with families in mind. From Kanto to Kansai, this trip takes you from Tokyo and its modern, bustling streets to Kyoto with its tight hold on tradition. It's the perfect way to take in all that Japan has to offer while having plenty of family fun.

Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Self-Guided Walking Tour - 4 days

Spend four days exploring the historic Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail in Ehime Prefecture on this self-guided tour. You'll meet white-clad pilgrims dedicated to walking the entire trail as you visit several of Ehime's iconic Buddhist temples and discover Shikoku's pilgrimage traditions. Relax in a hot spring bath after a visit to Matsuyama Castle and enjoy local hospitality in shukubo (pilgrim lodgings) and ryokan (traditional inns).

Self-Guided Active Japan: Cycling, Hiking & Kayaking - 9 Days

Indulge your sense of adventure while soaking up the history and taking in the scenery of Hiroshima, the Seto Inland Sea, and Shikoku. You'll walk, hike, cycle, and paddle to temples, islands, shrines, and memorials and get a true sense of life in Seto Inland Sea communities. This trip is designed to accommodate travelers used to easy walks, hikes, and bicycle trips and is suitable for children ages 12 and up.

Culture & History of Japan - 14 days

Embark on a journey through Japan’s cultural past with this immersive two-week itinerary. Starting in the modern capital of Tokyo, you’ll travel north to traditional mountain hot springs before making your way through the historic post towns of the ancient Nakasendo Trail. Wander through the 16th-century architecture of Takayama, discover the alpine valleys and traditional thatched-roof farmhouses of Shirakawa-go, and step back in time in the imperial capital of Kyoto. Spend a night with Buddhist monks at the mountaintop temples of Mount Koya before returning to Tokyo for a final evening in the city that never sleeps.