Cherry-picking the best in show

Travellers keen to see Japan in a new light are gravitating to self-guided tailor-made itineraries

True luxury is having the time to linger, learn and – just for a moment – live like a local. Culturally-rich tours for both first time travellers to Japan and those ready to see the country framed in a different way are helping to find that sweet spot.

Searching for quiet luxury, treasures off the beaten track, local encounters and a more considered pace? Best of Japan: Self-Guided Adventure tours cherry-pick destinations that shape unforgettable holiday memories. Rather than race between landmarks, be led by curiosity into smaller neighbourhoods, intimate bars and cosy eateries where local life brings a sharper focus.

From Tokyo to Takayama

A Best in Japan tour starts and ends in vibrant Tokyo with its temples, tea ceremonies, towers and neon-lit avenues. See how the streets and temples of the historical district of Asakusa contrast with the energy of Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku and Shibuya hubs.

The Fuji-Hakone National Park region offers lake tours, villages and hamlets, sculpture parks and art galleries, and the traditional multi-course kaiseki-style dinner. Relax in a hot spring in the shadow of Mount Fuji.

Along with its cool architecture, trainee geishas (maiko), textile precincts and hiking opportunities, the ancient capital of Kyoto dazzles with lantern‑lit alleyways, traditional Japanese ryokan and refined dining.

On the west coast is Miyajima Island in the Seto Inland Sea, where travellers find the Itsukushima Shrine and its “floating” torii gate. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Misen for misty peaks and thrilling views. Factored in is a highlight visit to the nearby symbol of resilience that is Hiroshima.

Stop overnight in Okasa and visit its famous castle; experience the delectable food life before heading to the enchanting city of Takayama, in the Gifu Prefecture, with its artisanal ambience, festivals, markets and sake tastings.

Gifu: the gift that keeps on giving

People power

Best of Japan is the brainchild of InsideJapan, which, with InsideAsia, sits under the umbrella of award-winning global tour operator, Inside Travel whose itineraries are crafted by specialists dedicated to cultural adventure.

InsideJapan, established in 2000 and today a leading independent Japan travel specialist, has a 24/7 Customer Experience team based on the ground in Nagoya, ensuring seamless support and insider intelligence. InsideAsia crafts adventures across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, Singapore, Hong Kong and South Korea.

Inside Travel’s guiding philosophy is “People Make It”, a conviction that cultural adventure comes alive when people are involved, engaged and connected. That means getting beneath the surface to experience a slice of local life. Bespoke itineraries are tailored to individual interests, timeframes and budgets.

There are four tailor-made Best in Japan: Self-Guided Adventure itineraries to choose from: Essential (from $5,220 per person twin share), Classic (from $7,620), Superior (from $14,320), and Deluxe (from $25,760).

Included in the Best of Japan Deluxe itinerary is: 14 nights’ accommodation (six nights Japanese-style), breakfast every day, six evening meals and four lunches. Airport transfers are by private car as are transfers between train stations and accommodations. Local transport passes, cards and tickets are provided as are private guides as per itineraries. 

For more information: Best of Japan | 2 Week Luxury Tour Itinerary | InsideJapan Tours AU