Japan, inside the velvet rope: Sushi masters, Michelin Tokyo and Kyoto’s hidden world

Private guiding, curated itineraries and authentic activities make for seamless travel to the Land of the Rising Sun with InsideJapan

Sushi is the universal food language of Japan. It takes around 10 years of study to become a Sushi Master Chef. However, on an 8-night Insider Highlights of Japan trip with InsideJapan, you can don the apron and discover the subtleties of this culinary art form over a sumptuous lunch. 

A sushi masterclass is just one of the impossible-to-book-yourself exclusive experiences woven into a personalised itinerary designed to explore the Japan of your dreams. Alongside private guides, you will delve beneath the surface of iconic landmarks, gain an understanding of Japanese culture, and still have time to wander and wonder.  

Michelin star studded Tokyo 

The Insider Highlights of Japan itinerary starts in colourful Tokyo, where ancient shrines nestle alongside dazzling skyscrapers, and tranquil gardens juxtapose with neon light studded streets. 

Feel the buzz of the capital through the eyes of your Insider guide on an architectural tour taking in everything from the glitzy luxe emporiums of Ginza, to the world’s busiest zebra crossing, avant-garde art spaces, and the Pritzker Prize winning masterpiece – Yoyogi, the 1964 Olympic Stadium featuring a futuristic suspended roof design. 

Nights are spent in the Michelin three key, Palace Hotel, an elegant haven on the edge of the Imperial Palace Gardens featuring a quintessential moat. Within the hotel, Esterrre by Alain Ducasse is a Michelin star fine dining restaurant showcasing locally sourced produce, or ask your Insider for what’s hot, and head out to explore. Let’s face it, with more Michelin stars than any other capital city, Tokyo is your oyster when it comes to dining. 

Kyoto’s hidden gems

It’s first class all the way as you whoosh by bullet train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto and chauffeured to the innovative Six Senses Kyoto, a city haven based on sustainable luxury. 

Once Japan’s imperial capital, the labyrinth of streets and laneways lacing the city is a feast for the senses. Your Insider guide knows the way to temples swallowed by time, hidden gardens, and artisan studios tucked behind stone walls. 

A hands-on workshop will introduce you to the Japanese art of Kintsugi, where broken ceramics are transformed into new works of beauty by mending cracks with powered gold and lacquer dust. 

Kyoto is also home to two exceptional cultural icons – geisha and kaiseki. You will experience both across an evening to treasure forever. This rare insight into ancient traditions showcases a multi course haute cuisine banquet based on seasonality, combined with exquisite geisha hospitality.   

Best views of Mt Fuji

Onboard the Tokaido Shinkansen you’ll then head to the Mt Fuji area for an up close and personal encounter with the majestic mountain. An overnight stay in a secluded, ultra-luxe traditional ryokan is just the ticket for uninterrupted views of one of nature’s greatest gifts. Savour the art of onsen, and a kaiseki dinner, before returning to the capital the following morning. 

Perched high above the city overlooking the Tokyo Tower and Imperial Palace, amid a sanctuary of greenery, a night in 1Hotel Tokyo makes a fine finale for the tour. 

Japan is famous for the cherry blossom season, however it’s also one of the world’s top-rated destinations for autumn colour when ginkgo and maple trees burst into vibrant shades of yellows and reds. Book now to experience Japan at its brightest. 

The InsideJapan ‘Insider Highlights of Japan’ itinerary starts from $22,103 per person (twin share) including 8 nights luxury stays, first class luxury-chartered vehicles, private Insider guiding, exclusive experiences, select meals and more. 

For more information: Insider Highlights of Japan / InsideJapan