Indulge in the gripping culture, stunning scenery and fascinating heritage that North Japan has to offer on this 2 week journey north in Japan. Visiting all the major destinations such as Tokyo, Kamakura, Nikko, Sendai and Hiraizumi you will experience bustling city life, mountain peaks, serene beach islands and majestic temples as you travel by boat, train and car across the land.

Beginning in the eclectic capital city of Tokyo, we visit Tsukiji Fish Market, known as the world's largest fish market. While in the capital we also witness a traditional tea ceremony, spend time in the city's oldest Geisha district, visit Meiji Shrine and discover the latest fashions in Harajuku.

From Tokyo it's time to begin our journey north with a visit to Sado Island, a tranquil, largely unpopulated Island with breathtakingly beautiful coastlines and quaint fishing villages. Heading back to the mainland by ferry you will stay overnight in Buddhist temple lodging at Haguro-san. After an early morning start, we make our way to the top of Mt Haguro.

An overnight stay in nearby Akita allows time to interact with local communities. Continuing on to Hiraizumi, we explore the surrounding areas that include Geibkei Gorge and Motsuji temple. A short train ride takes us to Sendai, a cosmopolitan city with excellent historical museums. The real highlight in Sendai is Matsushima Bay. Explore the 200 islands by boat to truly experience the hidden temples, restaurants and intricate pathways.

Relax in the beautiful forest setting of the Toshugu-shrine complex in Nikko. Take a bus to Lake Chuzenji-ko, a scenic lake situated in the mountains above Nikko and visit the 100 meter Kegon Waterfall. From Nikko its time to head back to Tokyo. Spend your last night in the city before we transfer to the airport by limousine bus or airport train.

Arrive in the eclectic capital city of Tokyo where our representative will meet you and assist in your transfer to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure.

Overnight in Tokyo 

Visit the garden of an Edo Period Lord before stopping to witness a tea ceremony and enjoying a cup yourself. Then cruise down the Sumida River and visit the old town of Asakusa, home to many traditional shops.

Overnight in Tokyo

Learn the basics of shiatsu massage from a master before boarding Japan's world famous bullet train to Nagano. Explore the fascinating Zenkoji temple and board a local train to Yudanaka where you will stay in a ryokan.

Overnight in Tokyo

Marvel at the famous Snow Monkeys bathing in the boiling baths in Jigokudani Yaen Koen. In the afternoon visit the charming town of Obuse and stop at the Masuichi sake brewery. Enjoy a Zen massage in the evening.

Overnight in Sado.

Head on the bullet train to Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital. Kyoto is home to an astonishing 2000 shrines and Temples, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

In the morning experience a quintessential Japanese enlightenment experience, Zazen (Zen meditation). Afterwards head to Chion-in, the head temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism. From Chion-in, walk through Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine.

Overnight in Haguro-san

Take the train to Nara, the former Japanese capital and visit Todaiji Temple, the world's largest wooden building and home to Japan's largest Buddha.

Overnight in Akita. 

Visit some of Akita's many fascinating museums before departing to Hiraizumi. Stop on the way at Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake, and cycle around its edges.

Overnight in Hiraizumi.

A full day to explore Hiraizumi and surrounding areas. Visit Motsuji temple and its Heian period land garden. Take a boat out on the nearby Geibikei Gorge.

Overnight in Hiraizumi.

Spend the day visiting attractions in Sendai. These include the Zuihoden Mausoleum, Sendai City Museum and Miyagi Museum of Art.

We recommend taking a boat trip on Matsushima Bay, one of Japan's most iconic landscapes. Visit the many small temples and trek along the designated walking paths. In the afternoon we continue by train to Nikko.

Head out and explore the Toshugu-shrine complex. In the afternoon visit Lake Chuzenji-ko, a scenic lake in the mountains above Nikko. Marvel at the 100m high Kegon Waterfall and take a boat cruise around the lake itself.

Overnight in Nikko. 

Take the train back to Tokyo and spend the afternoon at your leisure.

You are free to depart anytime, your included transfer to Tokyo airport will be by shuttle bus or train.