Whether it's winter snow, cherry blossoms, glowing maple trees or summer freshness, each season enhances the landscapes and reveals a unique facet of Japan. Set off on a trip combining big cities and the tranquillity of mountain villages.

In Nagano, meet the famous snow monkeys enjoying the region's hot springs. Discover a preserved Japan among the ancient residences of samurai and merchants in Kanazawa and Takayama, and the thatched-roof houses of Shirakawago. Then immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the must-see cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, which are always full of treasures, no matter the time of year.

Whether strolling through quiet temple gardens or buzzing local markets, this self-guided tour of Japan gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but with the ease of every hotel and transfer organised in advance. ​

Your 12-night itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Osaka

Day 2: Osaka ⇄ optional Nara 

Day 3: Osaka → Miyajima → Hiroshima

Day 4: Hiroshima → Kyoto

Day 5: Kyoto

Day 6: Kyoto → Kanazawa

Day 7: Kanazawa

Day 8: Kanazawa → Shirakawago → Takayama

Day 9: Takayama → Nagano

Day 10: Nagano

Day 11: Nagano → Tokyo

Day 12: Tokyo

Day 13: Departure from Tokyo

Your 15-night itinerary:

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN OSAKA

Arrive at Kansai Airport (KIX) and head to Osaka, a big modern city in Japan. It is the central metropolis of the Kansai region and the largest of the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto trio. It is a lively and exciting place that exudes a definite charm. Its history is rich, its scenery is gorgeous, and it's well-located close to the major cultural centres of Kyoto and Nara.

Included:

• Shared transfer from Kansai Airport (KIX) → your hotel in Osaka 

Suggestions:

• Explore Osaka Castle, a striking historic landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Wander through Dotonbori, the city’s bustling entertainment district full of neon lights and lively streets.

Must-try:

• Try takoyaki (octopus balls) at a street stall, a local favourite.
• Enjoy okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) at a traditional restaurant.
• Sample fresh seafood at Kuromon Market or local sushi bars.

Overnight in Osaka.

DAY 2: OSAKA ⇄ OPTIONAL NARA

Today, you have the opportunity to take a day trip to Nara using your JR West All-Area Pass, venturing beyond Osaka to one of Japan’s most historic cities. Nara is renowned for its ancient temples, serene parks, and freely roaming deer, offering a tranquil contrast to the bustling streets of Osaka.

Suggestions:

• Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the colossal Great Buddha statue.
• Walk through Nara Park and feed the friendly, sacred deer.
• Explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns.

Must-try:

• Try kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), a local speciality.
• Enjoy mochi (sweet rice cakes) at a traditional tea shop.
• Try local sake in small taverns or cafés for a cultural tasting experience.

Breakfast included & overnight in Osaka.

DAY 7: KANAZAWA

Today is your last full day at leisure in Kanazawa, giving you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. 

Suggestions:

• Discover Nagamachi Samurai District, where samurai residences and preserved streets offer a glimpse into feudal Japan.
• Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art for modern cultural experiences.
• Explore Omicho Market, the city’s bustling fresh food market, full of local produce and seafood.

Must-try:

• Kaisen-don (fresh seafood rice bowl) from Omicho Market.
• Fresh sushi and sashimi, particularly local fish from the Sea of Japan.
• Wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets often sold in tea houses.

Breakfast included & overnight in Kanazawa.

DAY 8: KANAZAWA → SHIRAKAWAGO → TAKAYAMA

Travel by bus from Kanazawa to Takayama, stopping at the charming village of Shirakawago to explore its UNESCO-listed gassho-zukuri farmhouses and scenic valley views. Continue to Takayama, a beautifully preserved town of Edo-period streets, wooden houses, and lively local markets.

Included:

• Bus ticket Kanazawa → Shirakawago.
• Bus ticket Shirakawago → Takayama.
• Luggage transfer from Kanazawa → Nagano (1 piece of luggage per person).

Suggestions:

• Shirakawago: Visit the Wada House or other traditional homes to see local life and crafts.
• Takayama: Stroll through the Sanmachi Suji historic district, with traditional shops, sake breweries, and tea houses.
• Takayama: Visit the Takayama Jinya, a historic government building from the Edo period.

Must-try:

• Shirakawago: Try gohei-mochi, skewered rice cakes with miso sauce.
• Takayama: Enjoy Hida beef, renowned for its tenderness and flavour, at a local restaurant.
• Takayama: Try takayama ramen, a soy-based noodle soup unique to the region.

Breakfast included & overnight in Takayama.

For the 15- and 17-night itineraries, the journey includes an additional stop in Matsumoto, allowing you to explore this charming city nestled in the Japanese Alps, renowned for its beautiful castle, historic streets, and scenic surroundings.

Included:

• Bus ticket Takayama → Matsumoto
• Train ticket Matsumoto → Nagano

Suggestions:

• Visit Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved historic castles.
• Explore the charming streets of Nawate-dori and Michi-dori, lined with traditional shops, cafés, and local crafts.
• Discover the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, home to an impressive collection of woodblock prints.
• Stroll along the Metoba and Nakamachi districts to see Edo-period architecture and historic merchant houses.
• Enjoy a walk in the surrounding Alpine foothills, offering scenic views and photo opportunities.

Must-try:

• Try soba noodles, a regional speciality often served cold with dipping sauce.
• Try sweet treats at tea houses along Nawate-dori, including mochi and dorayaki.

Settle into a comfortable Standard room in a 3* or 4* establishment (depending on your choice).

Your 3* accommodation (or similar):

• Osaka: Comfort Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi 
• Hiroshima: Comfort Hiroshima Otemachi 
• Kyoto: Comfort Hotel Horikawa Gojo 
• Kanazawa: Smile Hotel Kanazawa Nishiguchi Ekimae 
• Takayama: Hotel Kuretakeso Takayama Ekimae 
• Nagano: APA Hotel Nagano 
• Tokyo: Comfort Hotel Tokyo Higashi Nihombashi 

 Your 4* accommodation (or similar):

• Osaka: Noku Osaka 
• Hiroshima: Mitsui Garden Hiroshima 
• Kyoto: Kyoto Tower Annex 
• Kanazawa: Hotel Forza Kanazawa
• Takayama: Wat Hotel & Spa Takayama 
• Nagano: Hotel JAL City Nagano 
• Tokyo: Sunshine City Prince Hotel Express 

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.

More information:

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

Add an unlimited mobile data plan to stay connected with complete freedom, without any risk of exceeding your allowance. Activate your eSIM and enjoy continuous connectivity wherever you go: share the internet with your loved ones, find the best places around you, use your GPS without stress and enjoy your favourite apps to the full, without worrying about your usage.

Tokyo, a dynamic and ever-evolving metropolis, seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern. Known for its neon-lit streets, towering skyscrapers, and futuristic technology, the city also offers serene gardens, traditional temples, and sacred Shinto shrines. Beneath the fast-paced exterior, Tokyo remains rooted in its rich cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore its unique contrasts.

Must-sees:

• Imperial Palace: A peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, offering a glimpse into Japan’s imperial history.
• Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, located in the vibrant Asakusa district.
• Hamarikyu Gardens: A tranquil escape, showcasing beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional tea houses.

Culinary culture:

Tokyo’s food scene is as diverse as its cultural landscape. From high-end sushi restaurants to humble izakayas and food stalls, the city offers something for every palate. Indulge in world-class sushi at the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market, savour traditional ramen in local noodle shops, or sample delicious tempura and yakitori. The city’s culinary offerings reflect its blend of both contemporary and age-old traditions, with flavours that range from delicate to bold.

Dive deeper:

Explore the lesser-known gems of Tokyo, such as the Yanaka District, where traditional wooden houses and local artisans offer an authentic view of old Tokyo. Wander through the Nezu Shrine, a serene spot famous for its torii gates, or visit Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment hub, to witness the city's innovative spirit in action. Tokyo’s hidden treasures offer a deeper connection to the cultural roots of Japan.

Good to know:

Tokyo’s public transport system is efficient and easy to navigate, making it ideal for exploration. Japan's capital city is renowned for its neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct charm. For example, Shibuya is known for its youthful energy and fashion scene, while Asakusa offers a more traditional experience with its iconic Senso-ji Temple and historic shopping streets. Visitors should also explore Odaiba, a futuristic waterfront district featuring high-tech shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and stunning views of Tokyo Bay. Don’t miss the quirkily themed cafes, such as the animal cafes or robot-themed establishments, which offer an intriguing and distinctly Tokyo experience.

Kanazawa is a city where Japan’s past remains beautifully preserved. Once a samurai stronghold on the Sea of Japan, it offers a refined mix of traditional arts, Edo-period architecture, and natural elegance. From ancient castles to delicate gold-leaf crafts, this is a place where time-honoured culture still flourishes.

Must-sees:

• Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, known for its seasonal beauty and harmonious design.
• Kanazawa Castle: A restored symbol of samurai power, with impressive gates and panoramic walking trails.
• Higashi Chaya District: Wander lantern-lit alleys lined with tea houses, where geishas still perform today.
  21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art – A modern contrast to tradition, featuring interactive global exhibitions.
• Nagamachi Samurai District: Discover earthen-walled lanes and restored samurai homes filled with historic artefacts.

Culinary culture:

Kanazawa’s cuisine celebrates freshness and artistry. Start at Omicho Market with local sashimi, snow crab and sea urchin. Try kaiseki ryori, a refined multi-course meal, or the local favourite Jibuni, a warming duck stew. For a sweet finish, indulge in gold-leaf ice cream, a nod to the city’s signature craft.

Dive deeper:

Kanazawa is known for its skilled artisans. Visit a gold-leaf workshop, or take part in a traditional tea ceremony in a wooden machiya. Slow your pace and explore by foot or bike, drifting through peaceful neighbourhoods and riverside paths. For a quiet escape, head into the nearby mountains for a soak in a local onsen.

Good to know:
The city is compact and walkable, with loop buses serving key sites. The Hokuriku Shinkansen connects Kanazawa to Tokyo in 2.5 hours. Currency: Japanese yen (JPY).