Japan
·
Tokyo · Takayama · Kyoto
Japan, Slowly
A thoughtfully paced journey through Japan’s living traditions. Travel by rail from Tokyo to Kyoto via the Japanese Alps, sleep in a traditional ryokan and explore neighbourhoods most visitors never see.
10 days
Moderate
Maximum
12
guests
From
$5,100
per person
Overview
About this journey
Japan, Slowly is designed for first-time visitors who want depth rather than a checklist. We begin in Tokyo’s older neighbourhoods, then travel by bullet train into the mountains of Takayama and on to the craft city of Kanazawa before ending in Kyoto.
Each day balances a major sight with something quieter: a morning tea ceremony, a walk on the Nakasendo trail, a sake brewery visit or dinner at a counter restaurant. Luggage is forwarded between hotels so you travel light, and our Japan specialist stays with the group throughout.
Highlights
Walk a section of the historic Nakasendo trail
Overnight in a family-run ryokan with hot spring baths
Private tea ceremony in a Kyoto townhouse
Early visit to Fushimi Inari before the crowds
Day by day
Your itinerary
A clear outline of each day. Timings may shift slightly with the seasons, the weather and local conditions.
Days 1–2 — Tokyo
Arrive and settle in. Explore Yanaka and Asakusa on foot, then share an izakaya dinner in a local neighbourhood.
Day 3 — Takayama
Bullet train and scenic rail into the Japanese Alps. Morning markets and sake tasting in the old merchant quarter.
Day 4 — Nakasendo trail
Walk the old post road from Magome to Tsumago, then stay overnight in a ryokan with a seasonal kaiseki dinner.
Days 5–6 — Kanazawa
Explore Kenroku-en garden, the samurai district and a gold-leaf workshop, with a free afternoon for galleries.
Days 7–9 — Kyoto
Temple mornings, a tea ceremony, Nishiki market and a day trip to Nara. Farewell dinner in Gion.
Day 10 — Departure
Transfer to Kansai or Osaka airport for your flight home.
Where you’ll stay
Characterful, well-located stays.
Boutique city hotels in Tokyo, Kanazawa and Kyoto, plus one night in a family-run ryokan with hot spring baths and traditional futon rooms.
What’s included
Accommodation for every night of the journey.
Local trip leader and relevant specialist guides.
Ground transport listed in the itinerary.
Meals specifically marked as included.
Activities and entrance fees listed in the itinerary.
Pre-departure information and on-trip support.
Not included
International flights unless explicitly stated.
Travel insurance.
Visa fees and personal expenses.
Meals and drinks not listed as included.
Optional activities and gratuities.
Dates & pricing
From
$5,100
per person
Next departure:
Prices are per person, based on two sharing a double or twin room. Departure dates and availability are confirmed by our team. A 15% deposit is due only after the booking terms and availability are confirmed.
Trip FAQs
Before you book.
Still have a question? Our trip planners know every route personally.
Is this trip right for my fitness level?
Can I join as a solo traveller?
What should I pack?
Can this trip be arranged privately?
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