16-day Japan road trip

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Upon landing at Narita Airport, you’re welcomed by an English-speaking assistant and transferred to your hotel in Shinjuku. The city buzzes with energy: neon lights, towering buildings and hidden eateries tucked into narrow alleyways. In the evening, take a short stroll through the district and soak up the atmosphere of this metropolis where old and new blend effortlessly.

Day 2: Discovering Tokyo with a Private Guide

Together with a local guide, explore the many faces of Japan’s capital. In Asakusa, you’ll experience old Tokyo around the Senso-ji Temple and the lively stalls of Nakamise-dori. Continue to the peaceful Hamarikyu Gardens and enjoy a cup of matcha in an authentic teahouse. End the day along Omotesando and at the bustling Shibuya Crossing, where modern Tokyo pulses with life.

Day 3: Free Day in Tokyo

Set your own pace today. Browse vintage boutiques in Shimokitazawa, admire modern art in Roppongi Hills, or relax in a city onsen. In the evening, taste grilled yakitori in the cozy alleyways of Omoide Yokocho: a glimpse into the local life of Tokyo.

Day 4: Tsukiji, Skytree and Ryogoku

With your guide, visit the Tsukiji Outer Market, where the aromas of fresh seafood and soy sauce mingle with the calls of vendors. Then take in sweeping views from the Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest building. In Ryogoku, the heart of the sumo world, learn more about this ancient sport or visit the Hokusai Museum. A quiet walk through Ueno Park ends your stay in Tokyo on a serene note.

Day 5: By Shinkansen to Kanazawa

Your luggage travels ahead to Takayama so you can enjoy a comfortable Green Class Shinkansen ride to Kanazawa. Visit the famous Kenroku-en Garden, a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design, and the nearby Kanazawa Castle. In the old samurai district of Nagamachi, stroll past earthen walls and traditional homes, including the Nomura Residence with its refined inner garden.

Day 6: Through Shirakawa-go to Takayama

After breakfast, head for the mountains and visit Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village where steep thatched-roof farmhouses evoke the isolation of mountain life in centuries past. Inside, you’ll discover how families once lived and worked amid rice fields and forests. Continue to Takayama, a charming town that has preserved its traditional character. Along Sanmachi Suji, explore old merchant houses, sake breweries and craft workshops. Tonight, stay in a ryokan and savour a refined kaiseki dinner, a sequence of seasonal dishes served with Japanese precision and warmth.

Day 7: Discovering Takayama

This morning visit the lively Miyagawa Morning Market, then wander through the old town with its dark wooden façades and traditional breweries. Visit Takayama Jinya, the former shogun office, and the elegant Yoshijima Heritage House. At the Matsuri Yatai Museum, admire centuries-old festival floats still used in the famous Takayama Festival. In the evening, another exquisite dinner awaits in your ryokan, followed by a soothing soak in the hot springs.

Day 8: To Nagoya and Lunch with a Geisha or Maiko

After your Limited Express ride to Nagoya, you’ll be greeted in a city that perfectly balances tradition and innovation. During an exclusive lunch in a historic wooden house, meet a geisha or maiko. As they perform music, dance and conversation, you’ll glimpse the graceful world of this refined Japanese art.

Day 9: Day Trip to Gujo-Hachiman

Today, discover Gujo-Hachiman, a charming town nestled among rivers and mountains, known for its clear water and authentic atmosphere. Visit Gujo Castle for panoramic views, learn about the centuries-old Gujo Odori dance festival and take part in a workshop to create your own food replicas, a distinctive Japanese craft that merges precision with artistry.

Day 10: Nagoya’s Heritage and Street Food

Begin at the impressive Nagoya Castle, with its golden shachihoko roof ornaments and beautifully restored palace halls. Then visit Osu Kannon Temple and the lively surrounding district, a maze of shops, manga stores and food stalls. During a guided walk, sample local favourites such as tebasaki, miso-katsu and kushi-katsu: bold, savoury flavours that define Nagoya’s culinary spirit.

Day 11: To Kyoto, the Heart of Traditional Japan

After breakfast, take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, the former imperial capital and cradle of Japanese culture. Ancient temples, teahouses and narrow lanes lined with wooden machiya give the city its timeless grace. In Gion, geisha in silk kimonos glide past, while hidden teahouses keep centuries-old rituals alive. The rest of the day is free to enjoy Kyoto’s serene atmosphere.

Day 12: Kyoto and Arashiyama with a Private Guide

With your local guide, visit Kinkaku-ji, the shimmering Golden Pavilion reflected in its pond, then continue to Nijo Castle, the shogun’s former residence with its ornate golden doors and “nightingale floors.”

After lunch, stroll through the Nishiki Market, a paradise for local delicacies, and head to Arashiyama, on Kyoto’s western edge. Its famous bamboo grove and long-standing craft studios offer a peaceful escape amid the greenery.

Day 13: Free Day in Kyoto

Set your own rhythm today. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its endless vermilion torii gates, follow the Philosopher’s Path lined with cherry trees, or enjoy a tea ceremony in a historic townhouse. In Nishijin, the textile district, browse handmade silks and kimono fabrics. A final day to experience Kyoto’s many layers — spiritual, elegant and deeply Japanese.

Day 14: To Osaka, the City of Taste and Light

After a short train ride, arrive in Osaka, a vibrant city where commerce, cuisine and creativity thrive. With your guide, explore Osaka Castle, which played a key role in Japan’s unification, and enjoy panoramic city views. Then dive into Dotonbori, a lively district of neon lights, sizzling takoyaki stalls and energetic crowds. Along the river, countless eateries invite you to savour Osaka’s signature flavours late into the night.

Day 15: Excursion to Hiroshima and Miyajima

Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, where a local guide welcomes you and leads you through the Peace Memorial Park and its moving museum. Among the monuments, a profound sense of reflection and hope pervades.

Later, ferry across to Miyajima Island, one of Japan’s most spiritual places. The red torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine, seemingly floating on the water at high tide, symbolises harmony between people and nature. Stroll among wooden temples and friendly deer before returning to Osaka for your final night.

Day 16: Return Home

After breakfast, a private transfer takes you to Kansai Airport for your flight home. As Osaka’s skyline fades from view, you’ll look back on two unforgettable weeks of contrasts: tranquil gardens and lively markets, refined flavours and heartfelt encounters. A journey that reveals Japan’s essence: thoughtful, balanced and profoundly human.

What budget should you expect?

To fully enjoy this journey, you can expect a price starting from €12,000 per person, including international flights. This is an indicative price and may vary depending on your personal preferences, travel period and any additional experiences you choose to include.