Ultra Luxury Japan Tour — A Private Luxury Journey
Luxurious Japan
Tokyo — Hakone — Mt. Fuji — Takayama — Kanazawa — Kyoto
PLACES WHERE YOU'LL STAY
TOKYO (3 nights)
Day 1 - 3
Hakone (1 night)
Day 4
Takayama (2 nights)
Day 5 - 7
Kanazawa (2 nights)
Day 8 - 9
kyoto (3 nights)
Day 10 - 13
Quiet Indulgence, Perfectly Timed — Japan at Its Finest
Step into a journey where every detail is refined, every encounter elevated, and each landscape experienced through a lens of comfort, care, and quiet sophistication. This 12-day Bespoke Japan Tour—the most exclusive offering in our collection of private luxury journeys—brings together timeless tradition and modern elegance through a carefully curated selection of Japan’s finest experiences, delivered with exceptional attention to service and flow.
The journey moves gracefully from the Edo-era streets of Takayama to the thatched-roof farmhouses of Shirakawa-go, revealing Japan from a distinctly elevated perspective. Along the way, private moments unfold with depth and intention—sharing farm-style cooking and conversation with villagers near Lake Biwa, or unwinding in refined ryokan settings where mineral-rich onsen baths and seasonal kaiseki dining reflect centuries of hospitality, expressed with contemporary grace.
Culinary experiences are woven seamlessly into the journey, each shaped by access, expertise, and restraint. A private tea ceremony at one of Japan’s oldest teahouses offers a moment of quiet artistry, while guided explorations of Osaka’s vibrant food scenes reveal regional flavors with insight and ease. Throughout the journey, multi-course kaiseki meals highlight seasonal mastery, presenting Japan’s culinary heritage through a refined, immersive lens.
Sacred sites and iconic landscapes emerge naturally along the route, approached with thoughtful pacing and a sense of calm. From Nikko’s ornate Toshogu Shrine and Kyoto’s golden temples to Nara’s lantern-lit sanctuaries and the tranquil canals of Kinosaki Onsen, each setting is given the space to resonate. More than an itinerary, this Bespoke Japan Tour represents the pinnacle of private luxury travel in Japan—crafted for discerning travelers who value comfort, discretion, and an elevated sense of discovery throughout their journey.
What makes this tour unique
Japan at Its Highest Level: Our most exclusive private journey, designed with premier accommodations, elevated guiding, and a seamless rhythm that prioritizes discretion and ease.
Alpine Heritage, Rarely Combined: Move through Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Gokayama—preserved mountain communities that reveal a quieter architectural Japan seldom layered into luxury routes.
Private Tea Ceremony Tradition: Participate in a tea ceremony within one of Japan’s oldest teahouses—an intimate expression of ritual and cultural precision.
Icons with Privileged Access: Experience Nikko, Kyoto, and Nara through private guiding and measured pacing, allowing Japan’s most revered sites to be encountered with calm rather than crowds.
Why Choose This Tour
- For Travelers Who Want Japan Done Exceptionally Well – Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive journey executed at the highest level, where service, access, and accommodations are consistently best-in-class.
- For Those Who Prefer Effortless Travel – Designed for travelers who want every detail managed—from first-class rail to private transfers and expert guiding—allowing the experience to unfold without friction.
- For Discerning Travelers Who Value Quality Across Every Layer – A strong fit for those who expect premier hotels, refined dining, and thoughtfully curated cultural experiences throughout, not just at select moments.
- For Travelers Who Want Depth Without Complexity – Best for those who want meaningful cultural encounters and iconic landscapes delivered through a seamless, intelligently paced route.
TOUR INCLUDES:
- First Class rail tickets for all inter-city transportation
- 12 nights accommodations at the finest hotels
- Private excursions with Services of specially appointed, expert guides
- Immersive experiences such as Washi Paper-making, Private Tea Ceremony, Kaiseki Meals and Sake Tasting
- Private sedans used for all ground transportation
- Hotel breakfasts Daily
- Kaiseki dinners (2) during ryokan stays in Hakone & Takayama
- Carefree Travel with 24/7 Support
TOUR ITINERARY:
Days 1–4: Tokyo – Where Modern Magic Meets Tradition
Your first days in Japan unfold between the energy of Tokyo and the serenity of Nikko. In the capital, modern skylines rise above pockets of tradition, where art, architecture, and culture intertwine at every turn. Venture into the mountains to Nikko, where cool forest air, sacred sites, and centuries-old craftsmanship offer a tranquil counterpoint to the capital’s rhythm. Your guided explorations reveal the city’s dynamic contrasts before giving way to moments of discovery at your own pace.
Day 1 (Welcome to Japan!): Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred by private car to your hotel. Settle in, then spend the afternoon at leisure—or step outside into the vibrant elegance of Ginza, Tokyo’s most celebrated district, where luxury boutiques, artful storefronts, and refined cafés create an unmistakable energy.
Day 2 (Markets, Temples & Museums): Discover the dynamic contrasts of Japan’s capital on a privately guided tour. Enter the forested sanctuary of Meiji Jingu Shrine, honoring the emperor who opened Japan to the modern world, then explore the lively stalls of Tsukiji Market. Stroll the manicured Imperial Palace East Gardens before viewing contemporary works at the Mori Art Museum or the serene Nezu Museum by Kengo Kuma. End the day at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and browse Nakamise Street’s traditional shops. (B,L)
Day 3 (Lakes, Waterfalls & Sacred Shrines of Nikko): A two-hour drive takes you into the mountains to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where nature and devotion meet in breathtaking harmony. Mist drifts over Kegon Falls and the glassy surface of Lake Chuzenji, setting the stage for the jewel-like Toshogu Shrine, its every beam and carving a testament to master artisans of the Tokugawa era. Step into the hushed serenity of Futarasan Shrine, dedicated to the deities of Nikko’s sacred peaks, and Rinnoji Temple, where three gilded Buddhas glow in the temple’s dim light. Pause over a traditional lunch before returning to the city, carrying the quiet power of Nikko with you. (B,L)
Day 4 (Tokyo Your Way): Spend your third day at leisure, with time to explore Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods, history, contemporary or digital art museums, and serene gardens at your own pace. Your dedicated travel specialist can help you plan out the day’s activities tailored to your interests and pace. (B)
Discover More of Tokyo
A city of contrasts, Tokyo is where ancient Shinto shrines sit in the shadow of neon-lit skyscrapers, where quiet garden paths
Enhance your Tokyo Experience with add-ons
Wagyu & Sake Tasting
Enjoy a Kabuki Show
Sumo Show & Lunch Experience
Night Izakaya & Food Tour
Day 5: Mt. Fuji & Hakone: Nature & Ryokan Luxury
Leave Tokyo’s restless energy behind for the tranquil beauty of the Fuji Five Lakes region, where Japan’s most iconic peak reveals itself in shifting light and mood. At Kitaguchi Hongu Sengen Taisha, the ancient gateway to Mount Fuji, centuries of pilgrim footsteps echo beneath towering cedars and the shrine’s elegant rooflines. The Chureito Pagoda rises in bold red tiers against the mountain’s snow-capped form, while Oishi Park frames Fuji’s reflection in the still waters of Lake Kawaguchi, bordered by gardens that blaze with seasonal color.
After lunch, step into the world of master textile artist Icchiku Kubota at his namesake museum, where silk kimonos shimmer with intricate dyeing and hand-painted scenes—each one a meditation on nature’s beauty. Ascend by Fuji Panorama Cable Car for sweeping views across the lakes and the sacred mountain, its slopes fading into cloud and sky. By evening, arrive in Hakone to check into your luxury ryokan nestled in the mountains. Savor a seasonal kaiseki dinner and sink into the healing waters of your private onsen. (B,L,D)
Discover More of Hakone
Tucked into the misty hills of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is a timeless retreat where Japan’s natural beauty...
Days 6–7: Takayama – Edo Vibes & Alpine Scenery
Journey into the Japanese Alps for a glimpse of Old Japan, where Edo-period streets and serene alpine views reveal Japan’s rustic charm. Discover the cultural gems dotted across Takayama’s historic Sanmachi Suji district. Indulge in a traditional ryokan experience, where kaiseki dining and soothing onsen baths create a deeply authentic retreat. With a free day to explore the region’s hidden gems—from the storybook town of Hida-Furukawa to the breathtaking trails of Kamikochi—this is your chance to experience Japan at a slower, more soulful pace.
Day 6 (Experience Edo Japan): A private car takes you to Odawara Station where you’ll board for your first shinkansen and express trains to the charming mountain town of Takayama. Wander through preserved Edo-era streets and explore the historic Takayama Jinya, once a regional government office. Sample local sake at a traditional brewery before checking in at your ryokan for an enchanting evening of kaiseki cuisine and onsen serenity. (B,D)
Day 7 (Leisure in the Mountains): Today is yours to explore the many hidden gems in and around Takayama — visit nearby Hida-Furukawa or bask in the natural beauty of Kamikochi, a pristine alpine preserve that captures the heart of the Japanese Alps. Your dedicated travel specialist can help you plan today’s itinerary based on your preferred pace and interests. (B)
Discover More of Takayama
Takayama is a beautifully preserved mountain town in the Japanese Alps, known for its Edo-period streets, traditional craftsmanship, and rich seasonal festivals.
Days 8–9: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama & Kanazawa – From Mountain to Sea
Step back in time as you journey to Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa—where living history meets timeless beauty. Discover the fairy-tale charm of Shirakawa-go, with its thatched-roof farmhouses nestled deep in the mountains. Then continue on to Kanazawa, a city where tradition and artistry thrive. From bustling markets and peaceful gardens to teahouses and samurai quarters, these two days invite you to experience the grace and craftsmanship of old Japan.
Day 8 (Alpine Village to Castle Town): Begin the morning at Takayama’s bustling market, where locals select fresh produce and seasonal delicacies for the day’s meals. Then, journey into the mountains to the UNESCO-listed villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, where steeply-pitched, thatched-roof gassho-zukuri houses stand as they have for centuries. Once sustained by silkworm farming and mulberry cultivation, these remote hamlets preserve a way of life shaped by isolation and the rhythm of the seasons. In Gokayama, step inside a heritage workshop for a hands-on washi paper-making experience guided by local artisans — an intimate connection to a craft recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Stroll the quiet lanes, taking in the scent of woodsmoke and the gentle hum of village life, before continuing your scenic drive to Kanazawa. (B)
Day 9 (Tea, Gardens & Castle): Today, we’ll dive right into the cultural riches of Kanazawa, a city where tradition and artistry thrive – from bustling markets and peaceful gardens to samurai quarters. Start your morning wandering through Omicho Market, tour Kanazawa Castle, and experience a private Japanese tea ceremony at Saisetsu-tei, the oldest teahouse in Kanazawa dating back over three centuries. Take a quiet stroll through Kenroku-en Garden—one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens. Visit the Nomura Samurai House, with its elegant gardens and artifacts of a warrior’s life, then end the day in the historic Higashi Chaya District, where wooden teahouses whisper of geisha and each step carries the quiet elegance of Kanazawa’s samurai past. (B)
Discover More of Kanazawa
Tucked along the Sea of Japan, Kanazawa is a city where elegance lingers in the air and tradition is woven...
Enhance your Kanazawa Experience with add-ons
Private Geisha Performance & Dinner
Take a Temari Sushi-Making Lesson
Try Yuzhen Fabric Dyeing, Try Pottery, Washi Paper-making
Days 10–12: Kyoto: Japan’s Timeless Heart
Spend three unforgettable days in Japan’s ancient capital and cultural heart. Here, centuries of tradition unfold around every corner—from imperial gardens and sacred shrines to lantern-lit alleyways and artisan shops. Whether you’re sampling fresh sushi at Nishiki Market, embracing peace at a hidden temple, or simply wandering the old capital’s cobbled lanes, Kyoto invites you to slow down, explore deeply, and connect with its timeless spirit. With a perfect blend of guided discovery and personal exploration, these days offer a rich immersion into the elegance, flavor, and soul of Old Japan.
Day 10 (From Kanazawa to Kyoto’s Icons): Travel by rail to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. On arrival, your curated tour of the ancient capital begins with Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most celebrated temples in Japan founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall. Descend into the lively bustle of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka—vibrant lanes lined with quaint shophouses, sweet shops, and street snacks. Sample Kobe beef on a stick or mochi ice cream as you stroll through the iconic Yasaka Shrine and into the Gion District, where tradition hums beneath the energy of the city. Check into your hotel and enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure. (B)
Day 11 (Bamboo Forests, Palaces & Zen Gardens): Begin in the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where slender green stalks sway overhead. Enjoy a 30-minute rickshaw ride through the forest before choosing between a hike to Iwatayama Monkey Park for sweeping city views or a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway along the Hozugawa River. Continue to the shimmering Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), once the shogun’s villa and now one of Kyoto’s most photographed landmarks. Nearby, step into the serene Ryoan-ji Temple, where its Zen rock garden—15 stones amid raked gravel—embodies timeless Japanese aesthetics. Return to the hotel and enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure to relax, enjoy a spa session or explore Kyoto on your own. (B)
Day 12 (Vermilion Torii Gates, Sacred Deer & Stone Lanterns): Your morning is greeted with Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of vermilion torii gates wind through wooded hillsides in graceful arcs. Walk at your own pace beneath vivid arches that lead deeper into the shrine’s sacred atmosphere. In nearby Fushimi, step into the storied world of Japanese sake at Gekkeikan Sake Brewery, one of Japan’s oldest producers. Learn about centuries-old brewing traditions then savor a guided tasting of signature brews.
Continue to Nara, Japan’s first capital, where the grandeur of the Todaiji Temple houses the colossal Great Buddha. Wander through Nara Park, where free-roaming deer bow gently in greeting, and follow the stone and bronze lanterns that line the paths to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a place of quiet reverence and timeless beauty. (B)
Discover More of Kyoto
Kyoto is a city shaped by centuries of ritual, artistry, and imperial life, where temples, shrines, and wooden townhouses form a landscape...
Enhance your Kyoto Experience with add-ons
Enjoy a Tea Ceremony in a Kimono
Extend your trip:
Kinosaki-onsen (2 days)
Spend a day with local farmers at Lake Biwa
Extend your trip:
Hiroshima + Miyajima (2 days)
Day 13: Depart Kyoto – Sayonara Nippon
After breakfast, transfer to Osaka’s Kansai or Itami Airport by private car for your departure flight—taking with you unforgettable memories of Japan’s cultural treasures, natural wonders, and enduring spirit. (B)
PRICE CHART:
| 2026 Price Chart (Prices valid Thru December 31, 2026) | ||
| Hotel |
Low Season |
High Season |
| Luxury accommodations as listed | $22,500 | $25,000 |
| Tour requires minimum of 2 passengers to operate | ||
- Low Season = Dec*, Jan – Feb, Jun. – Aug.
- High Season = Mar. – May, Sep. – Nov.
- Price is per person, based on double occupancy
- Price includes all entrance fees, separate luggage transfer between cities, hotel taxes & service charges
- Price excludes Airfares.
- Tour excludes personal expenses, beverages, and gratuities to guides & drivers
- Black out dates apply and holiday surcharges apply during Cherry Blossoms Season (March 24 – April 10), and Christmas Holiday Period (December 24-January 5). Contact us for details
- All hotels and excursion are subject to availability at time of reservation
Get Ready for Your Trip of a Lifetime!
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