Luxury Tours of Japan: Discover Heritage, Innovation & Natural Beauty
Japan is a destination like no other: rich in extraordinary heritage sites, fascinating idiosyncrasies and exquisite beauty – you are bound to fall under its otherworldly spell. Join us on an escorted luxury tour of Japan to explore this extraordinary country, where time-honoured traditions meet futuristic advancements, all while showcasing exceptional natural beauty and unique cultural nuances.
Experience Japan’s captivating blend of old and new as you journey through its iconic cities and tranquil countryside. Marvel at Kyoto’s geisha in delicate kimonos, stroll through its famous zen gardens, and immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s traditional crafts. Enjoy a bento lunchbox on a lightning-fast 300 km/h bullet train while taking in the precision of the country’s public transport system. Whether you’re marvelling at the serenity of ancient temples or exploring bustling modern districts, Japan’s multifaceted charm will leave you spellbound.
Take time to discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Japan through our curated private tours. Visit renowned hot spring onsen and wander through serene temples and shrines that dot the countryside. Escape the urban rush with day trips to historic Nikko, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, or the art-filled district of Hakone, known for its museums and views of Mount Fuji. City parks like Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen and Kyoto’s moss gardens offer tranquil green spaces that blend Japanese and European influences, providing the perfect break from sightseeing.
Food lovers will find themselves in paradise as they taste their way through Japan. While some believe Japanese holidays can be costly, local guides can point you to delicious, affordable meals like a hearty bowl of ramen or street-side sushi for just a few hundred yen. No need to worry about tipping, as this is not customary in Japan. For those seeking luxury, Japan is home to a multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants serving both global and traditional cuisine. Experience the exquisite kaiseki feasts at a traditional ryokan or indulge in world-class dining at exclusive venues. Staying in a luxury hotel or traditional ryokan is a must, offering unmatched hospitality that will make you feel like royalty. Some ryokans preserve the traditional Japanese aesthetic with bamboo-mat floors, sliding screen doors, and beautifully landscaped gardens, while others, like Amanemu, offer modern interpretations of classic design.
For those looking to explore beyond the well-trodden routes, Japan’s mountains and remote regions offer unique experiences. Head off the bullet train tracks and discover the scenic beauty of Honshu’s mountain range at your own pace. In Hokkaido, the northernmost island, enjoy world-class skiing on Annupuri mountain at Niseko Resort, or embark on an exhilarating hike in Daisetsuzan National Park. Families can enjoy snow-shoeing and ice-walking in Hokkaido’s remote eastern peninsula. South of Honshu, Kyushu boasts volcanic landscapes and the charming city of Nagasaki, known as Japan’s San Francisco. On Shikoku, Japan’s smallest main island, uncover hidden valleys, ancient temples and soothing hot spring towns. For a relaxing beach retreat, the tropical Okinawa islands offer some of the finest sand and surf in Asia.
A luxury holiday to Japan is truly unforgettable when timed with the country’s most celebrated seasons. Cherry blossom (sakura) season tends to bloom in southern Japan from the end of March, and transforms the landscape into a sea of pink and white petals. The often-overlooked autumn season brings vivid hues of orange, red and gold, setting the country ablaze with colour and beauty. No matter when you visit, you can expect warm welcomes and genuine hospitality, from humble guesthouses to luxury hotels and top-tier restaurants. While Japan’s multifaceted allure may seem daunting, its meticulous order and our expert travel guides ensure your trip will be both smooth and enriching.
Japan is a country that defies expectations with its remarkable diversity. Whether you’re seeking a cultural, culinary, or outdoor adventure, our expert travel guides are ready to help you plan a tailor-made holiday to Japan that will create memories to last a lifetime.

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Our suggested tours in Japan
A Comprehensive Tour of Japan

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Mount Koya, this comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled exploration...
View hereDriving Through Japan: Effortless Exploration

Renting a car in Japan is an easy and enjoyable experience, with well-maintained roads, clear signage and English-friendly GPS systems,...
View hereJapan’s Ultimate Island Hopping Tour

A 12-night adventure covering Japan’s most stunning and culturally rich islands. This itinerary combines luxury, history, nature and off-the-beaten-path experiences...
View hereSeeking Ancient Japan: Follow in the footsteps of Stanley Stewart

Seek ancient Japan on the Izu Peninsula – a land of hot-springs, towering peaks, empty coastal headlands and 400 year-old...
View hereFollowing the Cherry Blossom through Japan

It’s not an exact science, but the famous cherry blossom trees tend to bloom around the end of March on...
View hereGardens, Architecture and Customs of Japan

From the Imperial Palace gardens to the zen-inspired grounds of ancient temples, Japan is an ideal destination for lovers of...
View hereJapan’s Coasts and Countryside

The great bustling cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima are rich with the history and culture of Japan, from its...
View hereSake, Snow, Shrines, Sand and Sushi

Japan has world class ski resorts as well as beaches to rival the best in Bali. So why not combine...
View hereSome of our favourite hotels in Japan
Madoka no Mori ,
Hakone

Located in the heart of Mt. Fuji National Park (Hakone), Madoka no Mori is one of Japan’s most luxurious ryokan (traditional...
View here Amanemu ,
Ise

Following the success of Aman Tokyo, Amanemu opened its doors in spring 2016, bringing the renowned Aman spa retreat experience...
View here Mandarin Oriental Tokyo ,
Tokyo

In every major historic Asian city, you'll find a flagship Mandarin Oriental hotel, expertly blending the pinnacle of Western luxury...
View here Iwaso Ryokan ,
Hiroshima and Miyajima

Iwaso is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Luxury Ryokans. Nestled in the serene Miyajima shrine area, Iwaso Ryokan offers an exceptional...
View here Hoshinoya Kyoto ,
Kyoto

Hoshinoya Kyoto is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Luxury Ryokans. Hoshinoya Kyoto is a luxury ryokan nestled in the scenic hillside...
View here Aman Tokyo ,
Tokyo

Aman Tokyo is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Lux City Hotels and Top 10 Aman Resorts in Asia. It also has one...
View hereSome of our favourite places of interest in Japan
Shirakawago

The charming hamlet of Shirakawago lies within one of Japan’s most picturesque spots in the Gifu region, where feudal ‘shōguns’ and ‘samurai’...
View hereKurashiki

This small town's Bikan historical quarter is just half a dozen preserved streets around a picturesque willow-lined canal, but is...
View hereHonshu

Spanning over 800 miles of diverse terrain, the mighty Japanese heartland - Honshu - encapsulates all that springs to mind when...
View hereKamikochi

This mountain plateau high up in the Japan Alps is only accessible in the milder months, and is one of...
View hereSendai

Sendai itself is a pleasant modern city and makes a great base for exploration of the Tohoku region. While visiting...
View hereHagi

This little gem of a town is three hours' ride across to the north sea coast from Hiroshima, but it's...
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