Tour Grand Tour of Japan: From Nagasaki to Sapporo - 18d - 2027

TOKYO 22ºC - 23ºC

Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.

TOKYO 22ºC - 23ºC

In the morning, we’ll take a long guided tour—about seven hours—through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.

We’ll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You’ll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.

Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, that we will see from the bus. It is known as the busiest intersection in the world. Then we’ll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.

Then we’ll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included up to Tembo Deck at 350 meters high), Japan’s tallest structure, where we’ll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.

We’ll end our visit in Asakusa, where we’ll explore Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel passing by Akihabara district, the "Electric City", known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture; and Ginza district.

6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.

Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.

TOKYO 22ºC - 23ºC - HIROSHIMA 26ºC - 26ºC

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the station to board the bullet train to Hiroshima, a journey of approximately four hours covering 800 kilometers.

Upon arrival, we’ll explore this city, forever marked by the atomic bomb of 1945, which tragically destroyed the city. Our visit will include a stroll through the Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the powerful Peace Memorial Museum, a solemn tribute to the resilience and hope that emerged after devastation.

We’ll later board a ferry to “the island where gods and men live together.” Here, we’ll visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, partially built over the sea and dedicated to the guardian of the seas. You’ll have time to explore the shrine, wander through the island’s charming center, and have some lunch.

We’ll return to Hiroshima for the evening, where dinner will be included.

Note: The order of visits in Hiroshima may vary, but you’ll experience everything as planned.

HIROSHIMA 26ºC - 26ºC - FUKUOKA 25ºC - 25ºC

After breakfast, we’ll depart for the island of KYUSHU. Connected to Japan’s main island by bridges, Kyushu is the third-largest island in JAPAN. Known for its milder climate, volcanic landscapes, and hot springs, it offers a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation.

We’ll arrive around midday in FUKUOKA, the largest city on Kyushu. Upon arrival, we’ll visit Canal City Hakata, a vast shopping and entertainment complex built around an artificial canal that creates an urban oasis, featuring fountain shows every 30 minutes. You’ll have time to stroll around and enjoy lunch.

Next, we’ll visit Tocho-ji Temple, founded in 806, famous for its five-story pagoda, a large statue of Buddha, and the Senju Kannon, a depiction of the thousand-armed female deity of mercy. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace.

FUKUOKA 25ºC - 25ºC - DAZAIFU TENMANGU - NAGASAKI 25ºC - 26ºC

We’ll depart for DAZAIFU TENMANGU, located near FUKUOKA. This is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and scholarship. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and ponds, it is especially famous for its more than 6,000 plum trees, which bloom spectacularly in late winter.

We’ll then continue to NAGASAKI, a city that, like Hiroshima, was devastated by an atomic bomb during World War II. We’ll visit Ōura Church, Japan’s oldest Christian church, dedicated to the 26 Martyrs of Nagasaki. This church beautifully combines Gothic architecture with local elements and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018 as part of the “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region". You’ll have free time for lunch in Chukagai, Japan’s most famous Chinatown, known for its lively pedestrian street lined with food stalls and restaurants.
After lunch, we’ll visit the Atomic Bomb Museum (admission included), followed by the Peace Park, where we’ll admire the powerful sculptures donated by various countries as symbols of hope and peace.

Finally, we’ll explore the Dejima area, a reconstructed historical district that was once an artificial island where Dutch merchants lived — for centuries, it served as Japan’s only point of contact with the outside world (admission included).

NAGASAKI 25ºC - 26ºC - UNZEN JIGOKU - KUMAMOTO 26ºC - 26ºC

We are traveling through volcanic lands. We will depart from NAGASAKI toward the Shimabara Peninsula, known for its volcanic origins and dominated by Mount Unzen. We will stop at UNZEN JIGOKU, a geothermal area with steam vents, bubbling pools of boiling mud, and a strong sulfur smell. We will walk “through the hells,” as this area is popularly known, which in the 17th century was the setting of Christian persecution.
We will then continue to SHIMABARA, where we will board a ferry for a crossing of approximately 45 minutes.

Upon arrival in KUMAMOTO, we will have free time in the shopping area around the castle to stroll and have lunch. Afterwards, we will visit Kumamoto Castle (admission included), considered one of the three great castles of Japan, famous for its black towers and massive stone walls, some of which are still under reconstruction following damage caused by the 2016 earthquake.

We will also visit Suizenji Jojuen (admission included), a landscaped garden featuring miniature recreations of mountains and lakes. Free time afterward in this modern city.

KUMAMOTO 26ºC - 26ºC - ASO VULCANO - YUFUIN - BEPPU 23ºC - 23ºC

We will set out to visit one of Japan’s most active and spectacular volcanoes: MOUNT ASO, famous for its vast caldera, one of the largest in the world, measuring approximately 25 km in diameter. Inside the caldera are several volcanic peaks, the most active being Mount Nakadake. We will reach the crater by shuttle from the base of the volcano, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and see the steaming sulfur lake.

Note: at times, due to volcanic activity and safety reasons, access to Mount Nakadake may be restricted.

Afterward, there will be free time in the area where the Aso Volcano Museum is located (optional visit, admission not included), as well as walking trails, restaurants, and shopping areas.

We will then continue to YUFUIN, a charming onsen town set in a peaceful valley surrounded by rice fields. Time to enjoy a coffee and take a stroll.
Next, we will proceed to BEPPU, a city renowned for its remarkable geothermal activity, with more than 3,000 hot springs. We will visit the “Hells of Beppu,” including admission to Umi Jigoku, known for its striking blue water and beautiful gardens, and Kamado Jigoku, very popular with families for its ponds of varying colors and temperatures, decorated with demon figures.
After the visits, transfer to the hotel and free time.

BEPPU 23ºC - 23ºC - USA JINGU - FUKUOKA 25ºC - 25ºC - OSAKA 27ºC - 29ºC

We will depart for USA JINGU, one of the most important Shinto shrines in JAPAN and the main one dedicated to the god Hachiman, the country’s protector deity. It is the head shrine among more than 40,000 Hachiman shrines scattered throughout Japan. Founded in the 8th century, it blends traditional architecture with vast gardens surrounded by nature. We’ll stroll across its iconic red bridge and visit the main pavilions in a photogenic, deeply spiritual setting.

We’ll then continue on to FUKUOKA, arriving around lunchtime.

From there, we’ll take a high-speed train to OSAKA. In about two and a half hours, we’ll cover nearly 600 kilometers. Upon arrival in Osaka, in the early afternoon, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant, modern metropolis — Japan’s second largest city. In the evening, we’ll take a walk through Dotonbori, a lively district glowing with neon lights and bustling nightlife.

Note: The train journey will be unaccompanied by the guide. Your guide will provide you with all necessary information and train tickets in advance. Upon arrival in Osaka, you’ll have a transfer waiting to take you to your hotel.

OSAKA 27ºC - 29ºC - MOUNT KOYA

At 11:30 a.m., we’ll depart from the city and head to the sacred Mount Koya, the most important center of Shingon Buddhism in JAPAN. This magical pilgrimage site is home to 120 temples and monasteries. Here, we’ll visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a deeply spiritual place and vast cemetery nestled in nature, with more than 200,000 graves. We’ll also explore the Kongobuji Temple, originally built in 1593.

Tonight, we’ll stay in a Buddhist monastery, where the monks will guide us through a Zen meditation practice (Ajikan). A vegetarian dinner will be included. If you wish, you can also attend the religious ceremony at the temple before breakfast.

Notes:
-During winter, due to earlier nightfall, there won’t be enough time to visit the interior of Kongobuji Temple.
-Staying in the monastery is considered a highly enriching experience. The rooms are simple, without private bathrooms, and follow traditional Japanese style with tatami mats. Bathrooms are shared.
-We cannot guarantee meditation sessions during busy tourist periods.
-Accommodation in the temples on Mount Koya is limited, and in some cases, we may arrange for groups to stay in nearby hotels instead (half board provided).

MOUNT KOYA - KYOTO 26ºC - 27ºC

We’ll start the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple. Early in the morning, we’ll depart for Kyoto, a city that served as Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and was home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably spared from bombings during World War II, Kyoto retains its extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage. The city is also famous as the site where the Kyoto Protocol on greenhouse gas emissions was signed in 1997.

Our visit will take us to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll admire the magnificent Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, explore the historic Imperial Palace, and marvel at the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” with its stunning gardens.

You’ll have free time to explore before we visit Gion, a bustling traditional district renowned for its Geisha culture. Here, you’ll have additional free time to soak in the unique atmosphere.

Note: If you’ve already visited Kyoto as part of your tour, our guide will provide tips and recommendations to help you explore other parts of the city on your own.

KYOTO 26ºC - 27ºC - TSUMAGO - MATSUMOTO 22ºC - 22ºC - NAGANO 24ºC - 24ºC

We’ll set out for Tsumago, enjoying the charming countryside scenery along the way. This small village, known for its wooden houses, is considered one of the prettiest places in Japan. You’ll have free time to explore, and lunch will be included. Next, we’ll continue to Matsumoto, a lively tourist city where we’ll visit the impressive 16th-century castle, famously known as the “The Crow.” Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore this bustling city at your own pace. Our journey will then take us to Nagano, where we’ll spend the night

NAGANO 24ºC - 24ºC - MONKEY PARK - KUSATSU 26ºC - 26ºC - IKAHO

In NAGANO, we’ll visit Zenko-ji Temple, a famous pilgrimage site that houses Japan’s first Buddhist image. Our travelers will also take part in the Gomakuyo ceremony, a traditional ritual meant to attract good fortune.
Afterwards, we’ll venture into the stunning Japanese Alps, traveling through majestic mountain scenery to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. We’ll take a walk through the forested trails, rivers, and hot springs where colonies of Japanese macaques live and bathe in the warm waters.

We’ll then continue through beautiful high-mountain landscapes (reaching an altitude of 2,172 meters / 7,126 feet) and pass by semi-active volcanoes. Our next stop is KUSATSU, a charming hot-spring town whose lively central square is full of activity. We’ll take a pleasant stroll through the city park, which features open-air onsen (hot springs). Free time for lunch.

Our journey continues to IKAHO, another picturesque hot-spring town. We’ll stroll through its old center, famous for its traditional stone stairways. We’ll stay overnight in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where we recommend enjoying the hot-spring baths. Traditional Japanese dinner included.

Note: In autumn, depending on the availability of food in the mountains, the movement of the monkeys can be unpredictable. If the macaques do not come down to the park, it may be closed. The visit to Kusatsu may also be canceled due to weather conditions from November to April.

IKAHO - NIKKO 19ºC - 19ºC - SENDAI 22ºC - 22ºC

We’ll continue our journey to Nikko, a captivating town where we’ll visit the impressive Nikko-Toshogu Temple, famed for its “room with the sound of a dragon.” We’ll also explore the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a tranquil site that radiates peace. Afterward, we’ll take a leisurely stroll along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues quietly watch over the river.

You’ll then have free time to explore the town center before we proceed to Sendai, a vibrant and modern city with over one million inhabitants. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the bustling streets and enjoy dinner in its lively city center.

SENDAI 22ºC - 22ºC - MATSUSHIMA 22ºC - 22ºC - HIRAIZUMI 21ºC - 21ºC - MORIOKA 21ºC - 21ºC

We’ll depart for the marvelous city of Matsushima, located on the “Thousand Islands” Bay in the Pacific Ocean, considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Japan. Upon arrival, we’ll visit a magnificent tea house overlooking the sea, where we’ll enjoy a cup of traditional tea as our guide shares fascinating insights about the city. Then, we’ll embark on a 50-minute cruise and enjoy some lunch on board. After, our tour will cintinue to Hiraizumi, where we’ll visit its historic temples, starting with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Takkoku no Iwaya, carved into the rock in 801. We’ll then explore the magnificent Buddhist temples of Chusonji and enjoy a peaceful moment in the gardens of Motsuji Temple, where passengers can participate in a Zen ceremony (admission included). conclude the day in Morioka, the charming capital of Iwate Province, where we’ll settle into our hotel and enjoy some free time to explore.

MORIOKA 21ºC - 21ºC - HIROSAKI 20ºC - 20ºC - AOMORI 20ºC - 21ºC - HAKODATE 19ºC - 19ºC

We’ll travel through a region of stunning landscapes to Hirosaki. From the outside, we will see its castle, located in a beautiful park where more than 2,500 cherry trees bloom in spring.

We’ll then continue to Aomori, the provincial capital on Mutsu Bay. Here, we’ll visit the Nebuta Museum to learn about Japan’s vibrant festival traditions, reminiscent of carnival celebrations, featuring beautifully painted and illuminated floats. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.

Afterward, we’ll board a ferry to cross to the island of Hokkaido, enjoying a scenic journey of just over three and a half hours. Upon arrival in Hakodate, free time to explore its charming historic district, where we can admire the influence of different cultures, including the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian churches.

HAKODATE 19ºC - 19ºC - ONUMA - NOBORIBETSU 19ºC - 19ºC - SAPPORO 20ºC - 20ºC

In the morning, we’ll visit the lively and bustling fish market, a fascinating glimpse into local culture. We’ll also go up Goryokaku Tower, where we’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and appreciate the star-shaped design of Hakodate’s historic fortress. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the castle area before we continue to Onuma.

In this magnificent natural setting, dotted with countless small islands, you’ll have free time to take a boat ride or stroll along scenic walking trails. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, we’ll journey along the coastline to Noboribetsu, an awe-inspiring volcanic landscape. We’ll walk among the steam vents of Jigokudani (Hell Valley), where we´ll admire the misty waters of Lake Oyunuma.

Later, we’ll continue to Sapporo, arriving in the evening at this beautiful northern capital of Japan.

SAPPORO 20ºC - 20ºC

We’ll go on a city tour with stops at the iconic Clock Tower and Odori Koen, the beautiful park-lined avenue dominated by the towering Sapporo TV Tower. We’ll also visit the stunning Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we’ll take part in a Kito, a traditional ceremonial prayer to express gratitude for our journey.

On the outskirts of Sapporo, we’ll visit the Hill of Buddha, a striking example of avant-garde architecture inaugurated in 2015. This lavender-covered hilltop is home to a massive Buddha statue, and within the complex, we’ll also see replicas of the famous Moai statues from Easter Island.

Our journey continues to Otaru, a charming town reminiscent of Europe, with lively shopping streets, a historic canal, and quaint museums. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant.

We’ll return to Sapporo around 3:30 p.m. The rest of the afternoon will be free for you to explore at your leisure.

SAPPORO 20ºC - 20ºC

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.