From vibrant cities to breathtaking nature-filled escapes, let JapanQuest Journeys expertly lead you on an unforgettable and compelling luxury tour of Japan filled with intimate discoveries of a country that remains remarkably traditional yet uniquely modern, rich in beauty and cultural heritage. Let us show you Japan in a way you never thought possible.
BESPOKE ITINERARIES
Where can we take you? Everywhere.
An investment in a bespoke journey with us starts at $3,000 per person per day, based on double occupancy.
From vibrant cities to breathtaking nature-filled escapes, let JapanQuest Journeys expertly lead you on an unforgettable and compelling luxury tour of Japan filled with intimate discoveries of a country that remains remarkably traditional yet uniquely modern, rich in beauty and cultural heritage. Let us show you Japan in a way you never thought possible.
Japan has five main islands, Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku, and Okinawa, as well as hundreds of smaller, sparsely populated islands. Japan offers abundant natural diversity, from snow-capped mountains to fertile rice-filled valleys to tropical rainforests. Approximately 75% of Japan’s land area is mountainous, providing fabulous opportunities to explore small mountain villages, stretch your legs, and take in the breadth of Japan’s serene natural beauty.
Most first-time clients in Japan will spend their time on Honshu Island, which is central to Japanese history. Here, you may explore the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara, traditional castle towns such as Kanazawa and Matsumoto, and one of Japan’s innumerable and relaxing hot-spring resorts.
Many of our clients also choose to visit the contemporary art island of Naoshima in the enchantingly beautiful Inland Sea, bounded by Shikoku to the east and Honshu to the west.
Japan also offers abundant opportunities to explore particular interests or passions in the context of its unique cultural heritage. Whether meeting with a potter in the former samurai town of Hagi or waking with the birds to listen to morning prayers in Mt. Koya, we will introduce you to some of Japan’s unique experiences.
Our repeat and longer-stay clients often venture further afield to either the northern island of Hokkaido or the southern island of Kyushu. Hokkaido is Japan’s great outdoors, with stunning National Parks and incredible skiing. In Niseko, one will discover some of the finest powder in the world.
Kyushu, by contrast, is home to some of Japan’s finest porcelain and pottery kilns, which were established centuries ago and continue to thrive. South of Kyushu lies the subtropical island of Yakushima, where one can enjoy fantastic hiking in a mystical setting among 1,000-year-old cedar trees.
Finally, a remarkable aspect of traveling in Japan is the country’s extensive and ultra-efficient transportation network. No matter where you decide to venture, access is easy by Japan’s world-renowned Shinkansen and a vast network of domestic flights.
1 — Niseko offers world-class skiing, a fun village atmosphere, and a variety of outstanding modern resorts and more traditional Japanese ryokans.
2 — Kushiro | Akan | Shiretoko
For those interested in exploring national parks, Kushiro, Akan, and Shiretoko are great areas to travel in the warm months. Travelers can opt to stay in a quintessentially English manor house, complete with horses roaming the property.
3 — Noboribetsu
For a perfect onsen stay, Noboribetsu is the place. Located on the Japanese island of Hokkaido. It’s known for its natural hot springs.
4 — Nikko
Known as a place where you can see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil, Nikko is home to the iconic Toshogu Shrine and is distinguished by always-roaming monkeys and a luxurious hotel situated near Lake Chuzenji.
5 — Tokyo
Tokyo showcases some of the very best of Japan’s hyper-contemporary culture: architecture, fashion, technology, and culinary delights. The city allows visitors to experience the ultimate juxtaposition of the modern and traditional.
6 — Hakone | Shuzenji
As the gateway to Mt. Fuji, the area around Hakone brims with mountains, lakes and incredible views. The small village of Shuzenji offers a lovely riverwalk that leads visitors to hidden temples and a stay at a fabulous onsen ryokan.
7 — Matsumoto
In the mountains of Nagano, Matsumoto is home to one of Japan’s prettiest samurai castles, which is set against the backdrop of the Alps. Just outside the city, travelers can opt to stay at a beautiful onsen ryokan nestled in the woods.
8 — Kiso Valley
Visitors looking to venture off the beaten path can explore the rural towns located along the Nakasendo, working their way towards Tsumago and the Kiso Valley. Guests can stay in a lovingly refurbished farmhouse (offering just three rooms) or at a more contemporary ryokan.
9 — Takayama
Known for its Edo period architecture, lovely lacquerware shops, and sake breweries, this charming village lies at the foothills of the Alps.
10 — Kanazawa | Echizen | Shirakawago
On the western coast of Japan you can find authentic Geisha culture, astounding samurai homes, one of the top three gardens, and a colorful market known for unique pottery, lacquerware, and ornate gold leaf wares. Echizen is known for seven of Japan's traditional crafts, such as knife, washi paper, and tansu-making. A day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawago is a must for curious visitors.
11 — Kyoto | Uji | Shiga
As Japan’s former imperial capital, Kyoto and the nearby area is replete with imperial properties, innumerable Zen Buddhist temples and gardens, Shinto shrines, bamboo forests, and a still-vibrant Geisha culture. From textiles to pottery, the city remains synonymous with culture, tradition, and a respect for the arts.
12 — Nara
Situated just an hour from Kyoto, Nara was Japan’s first imperial capital, dating all the way back to the 8th century. With tame deer roaming throughout , Nara’s temples and architecture look and feel entirely different from that of Kyoto. In Nara Prefecture, a stay at a private Japanese villa overlooking green rice terraces, provides a suitably incredible way to end a perfect day.
13 — Osaka
A bustling modern city, Osaka is a great waypoint between regions to pause and enjoy some of the best restaurant hopping in the world and some of Japan’s best street food, whether it be fresh crab to yakiniku or takoyaki.
14 — Ise-Shima
With many resort hotels and beaches in the area, Ise-Shima is also famed for fresh seafood, particularly oysters. Located near the rugged coast of Mie and Ago Bay, guests can stay at a small boutique property to rest and regenerate in this naturally beautiful destination.
15 — Mt. Koya
Located in an area known for Buddhist pilgrimages and mystical temples, guests can stay in a serene temple, dining on vegetarian cuisine and waking up to the melodic sounds of monks chanting their morning sutras. For hiking aficionados, the area boasts hundreds of kilometers of trails leading in and out of Mt. Koya.
16 — Kumano Kudo
Further down this peninsula is the Kumano Kodo, a Shinto pilgrimage region with fantastic trekking coupled with three of the most historic shrines in all of Japan as well as the country’s tallest waterfall, which can be seen from the Pacific Ocean.
17 — Inland Sea | Naoshima
One of the most popular regions in Japan is the Inland Sea, where the Pacific Ocean surrounds the island of Shikoku and the surrounding area is dotted with small islands. Stay in a Tadao Ando-designed hotel on Naoshima, which you can use as a home base to experience the contemporary art installations (including the Isamu Noguchi Museum and his home) are just a water taxi away.
18 — Kurashiki
A former sugar merchant village, Kurashiki has a willow-lined canal and unique white-washed kura (aka warehouses) filled with wonderful shops and restaurants. A stay at a charming ryokan in the center of town makes for a perfect evening on your way to or from the Inland Sea.
19 — Matsue
Even further off-the-beaten path, Matsue boasts a scenic castle and a dedicated samurai area. Within a day’s trip, Izumo Taisha — one of Japan’s oldest Shinto Shrines — is amazing to behold. Another must-see is the Adachi Museum of Art and its accompanying garden, which is considered one of the best gardens in the country.
20 — Hiroshima
Hiroshima is an important destination. A touching Peace Park and museum exist as a somber testament to the tragic events that once took place here. At the nearby island of Miyajima, guests can experience a torii gate that appears to float on the sea.
21 — Hagi
The town of Hagi , known for its samurai heritage, world-class pottery, and beautiful homes and gardens, is beautiful to explore. Stay in nearby Nagato at a lovely contemporary hot spring ryokan.
22 — Fukuoka | Saga
Fukuoka sits on the northern shore of Japan’s Kyushu Island. It’s known for ancient temples, beaches and Maizuru Park, which contains the ruins of 17th-century Fukuoka Castle. Saga offers plenty of natural wonders, history and artistry and is famous for being the birthplace of ceramics in Japan.
23 — Yufuiin | Onta
If you are a pottery lover and want to try out some outstanding onsen ryokan, a visit to Northern Kyushu — including Yufuiin, Onta and the famed villages of Arita, Imari, and Karatsu —is a must.
24 — Nagasaki | Unzen
For history buffs, Nagasaki, the centuries-old gateway to Japan, is a fascinating destination. The scenic Mr. Aso volcano is located nearby. The nearby city of Unzen provides a great place to explore.
25 — Kagoshima
Kagoshima, a seaside city on Japan's Kyushu Island, is the capital of Kagoshima Prefecture. It's best known for Sakurajima, an active volcano that faces Kinko Bay.
26 — Yakushima
The island of Yakushima is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its three microclimates, amazing 1,000-year-old yakusugi (cedar tree forests), and unique wildlife. Circumnavigate the island, hike nature trails, and relax in a luxury resort hotel located on the island.
27 — Taketomi | Ishigaki | Iriomote
Given their diversity of foods and experiences, the southernmost islands of Japan can feel like a totally different country. Okinawa offers smaller and scenically rich spots to explore, such as Taketomi, Ishigaki, and Iriomote with their staggering natural beauty, hidden coves, and mango-tree-lined rivers. A stay at a contemporary ryokan on Taketomi will make guests feel as if they have truly entered a different world.
1 — Niseko
In addition to world-class skiing, Niseko offers a variety of outstanding modern resorts and more traditional Japanese ryokans.
2 — Kushiro | Akan | Shiretoko
For those interested in exploring national parks, Kushiro, Akan, and Shiretoko are great areas to travel in the warm months. Travelers can opt to stay in a quintessentially English manor house, complete with horses roaming the property.
3 — Noboribetsu
For a perfect onsen stay, Noboribetsu is the place. Located on the Japanese island of Hokkaido. It’s known for its natural hot springs.
4 — Nikko
Known as a place where you can see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil, Nikko is home to the iconic Toshogu Shrine and is distinguished by always-roaming monkeys and a luxurious hotel situated near Lake Chuzenji.
5 — Tokyo
Tokyo showcases some of the very best of Japan’s hyper-contemporary culture: architecture, fashion, technology, and culinary delights. The city allows visitors to experience the ultimate juxtaposition of the modern and traditional.
6 — Hakone | Shuzenji
As the gateway to Mt. Fuji, the area around Hakone brims with mountains, lakes and incredible views. The small village of Shuzenji offers a lovely riverwalk that leads visitors to hidden temples and a stay at a fabulous onsen ryokan.
7 — Matsumoto
In the mountains of Nagano, Matsumoto is home to one of Japan’s prettiest samurai castles, which is set against the backdrop of the Alps. Just outside the city, travelers can opt to stay at a beautiful onsen ryokan nestled in the woods.
8 — Kiso Valley
Visitors looking to venture off the beaten path can explore the rural towns located along the Nakasendo, working their way towards Tsumago and the Kiso Valley. Guests can stay in a lovingly refurbished farmhouse (offering just three rooms) or at a more contemporary ryokan.
9 — Takayama
Known for its Edo period architecture, lovely lacquerware shops, and sake breweries, this charming village lies at the foothills of the Alps.
10 — Kanazawa | Echizen | Shirakawago
On the western coast of Japan you can find authentic Geisha culture, astounding samurai homes, one of the top three gardens, and a colorful market known for unique pottery, lacquerware, and ornate gold leaf wares. Echizen is known for seven of Japan’s traditional crafts, such as knife, washi paper, and tansu-making. A day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawago is a must for curious visitors.
11 — Kyoto | Uji | Shiga
As Japan’s former imperial capital, Kyoto and the nearby area is replete with imperial properties, innumerable Zen Buddhist temples and gardens, Shinto shrines, bamboo forests, and a still-vibrant Geisha culture. From textiles to pottery, the city remains synonymous with culture, tradition, and a respect for the arts.
12 — Nara
Situated just an hour from Kyoto, Nara was Japan’s first imperial capital, dating all the way back to the 8th century. With tame deer roaming throughout , Nara’s temples and architecture look and feel entirely different from that of Kyoto. In Nara Prefecture, a stay at a private Japanese villa overlooking green rice terraces, provides a suitably incredible way to end a perfect day.
13 — Osaka
A bustling modern city, Osaka is a great waypoint between regions to pause and enjoy some of the best restaurant hopping in the world and some of Japan’s best street food, whether it be fresh crab to yakiniku or takoyaki.
14 — Ise-Shima
With many resort hotels and beaches in the area, Ise-Shima is also famed for fresh seafood, particularly oysters. Located near the rugged coast of Mie and Ago Bay, guests can stay at a small boutique property to rest and regenerate in this naturally beautiful destination.
15 — Mt. Koya
Located in an area known for Buddhist pilgrimages and mystical temples, guests can stay in a serene temple, dining on vegetarian cuisine and waking up to the melodic sounds of monks chanting their morning sutras. For hiking aficionados, the area boasts hundreds of kilometers of trails leading in and out of Mt. Koya.
16 — Kumano Kudo
Further down this peninsula is the Kumano Kodo, a Shinto pilgrimage region with fantastic trekking coupled with three of the most historic shrines in all of Japan as well as the country’s tallest waterfall, which can be seen from the Pacific Ocean.
17 — Inland Sea | Naoshima
One of the most popular regions in Japan is the Inland Sea, where the Pacific Ocean surrounds the island of Shikoku and the surrounding area is dotted with small islands. Stay in a Tadao Ando-designed hotel on Naoshima, which you can use as a home base to experience the contemporary art installations (including the Isamu Noguchi Museum and his home) are just a water taxi away.
18 — Kurashiki
A former sugar merchant village, Kurashiki has a willow-lined canal and unique white-washed kura (aka warehouses) filled with wonderful shops and restaurants. A stay at a charming ryokan in the center of town makes for a perfect evening on your way to or from the Inland Sea.
19 — Matsue
Even further off-the-beaten path, Matsue boasts a scenic castle and a dedicated samurai area. Within a day’s trip, Izumo Taisha — one of Japan’s oldest Shinto Shrines — is amazing to behold. Another must-see is the Adachi Museum of Art and its accompanying garden, which is considered one of the best gardens in the country.
20 — Hiroshima
Hiroshima is an important destination. A touching Peace Park and museum exist as a somber testament to the tragic events that once took place here. At the nearby island of Miyajima, guests can experience a torii gate that appears to float on the sea.
21 — Hagi
The town of Hagi , known for its samurai heritage, world-class pottery, and beautiful homes and gardens, is beautiful to explore. Stay in nearby Nagato at a lovely contemporary hot spring ryokan.
22 — Fukuoka | Saga
Fukuoka sits on the northern shore of Japan’s Kyushu Island. It’s known for ancient temples, beaches and Maizuru Park, which contains the ruins of 17th-century Fukuoka Castle. Saga offers plenty of natural wonders, history and artistry and is famous for being the birthplace of ceramics in Japan.
23 — Yufuiin | Onta
If you are a pottery lover and want to try out some outstanding onsen ryokan, a visit to Northern Kyushu — including Yufuiin, Onta and the famed villages of Arita, Imari, and Karatsu —is a must.
24 — Nagasaki | Unzen
For history buffs, Nagasaki, the centuries-old gateway to Japan, is a fascinating destination. The scenic Mr. Aso volcano is located nearby. The nearby city of Unzen provides a great place to explore.
25 — Kagoshima
Kagoshima, a seaside city on Japan’s Kyushu Island, is the capital of Kagoshima Prefecture. It’s best known for Sakurajima, an active volcano that faces Kinko Bay.
26 — Yakushima
The island of Yakushima is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its three microclimates, amazing 1,000-year-old yakusugi (cedar tree forests), and unique wildlife. Circumnavigate the island, hike nature trails, and relax in a luxury resort hotel located on the island.
27 — Taketomi | Ishigaki | Iriomote
Given their diversity of foods and experiences, the southernmost islands of Japan can feel like a totally different country. Okinawa offers smaller and scenically rich spots to explore, such as Taketomi, Ishigaki, and Iriomote with their staggering natural beauty, hidden coves, and mango-tree-lined rivers. A stay at a contemporary ryokan on Taketomi will make guests feel as if they have truly entered a different world.
So we can tailor your journey to your exacting needs, kindly take a few moments to complete our questionnaire. In doing so, please keep all of the members of your party in mind. We thank you in advance and look forward to designing your extraordinary bespoke journey. You can also contact us at [email protected] or 202.455.0095.
Note: An investment in a bespoke journey with us starts at $3,000 per person per day, based on double occupancy.