The Japan Alps

Welcome to Japan! 

At Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) airport, you'll be welcomed by our airport assistant, who will hand over your travel documents and Pocket WiFi to ensure a smooth start to your trip.

Then, you'll travel to your accommodation by shared shuttle or bus, along with other guests heading to the same or a nearby hotel.

Please note that shuttles/buses depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival, and may make stops at other hotels en route.

If you prefer a direct transfer to your accommodation, the 'Private Taxi from the Airport' option is available.

For the first days of your tour, you have complete freedom to explore Tokyo at your leisure. Exploring Tokyo can be an intense but incredibly rewarding experience, as each district boasts its own distinct style and character.

These diverse neighbourhoods collectively tell a rich and universal story of the city, making a district-by-district approach the most effective way to truly experience Tokyo. The Yamanote Line, with its convenient circular route, is ideally suited for this kind of district exploration.

A trip to Tokyo isn't complete without exploring its famous districts: Shinjuku, known for its entertainment and nightlife; Shibuya, for its youthful energy and shopping; and Harajuku, the center of youth fashion and cosplay.

When in these districts, be sure to check out: 
- Meiji Jingu, a peaceful imperial shrine.
- Takeshita-Dori, Tokyo's trendy street food and fashion hub.
- Omotesando, Tokyo's own Champs-Élysées.
- Shibuya Crossing, the world-famous pedestrian crossing.

It’s your last day in the capital, so be sure to also venture into other major hubs such as Ikebukuro, Ueno, Ginza, and Akihabara.

From the luxury boutiques of Ginza, the electronic fervour of Akihabara, to the traditional cafes and restaurants of Ueno, Tokyo offers something to captivate every visitor, children and adults alike.

Also, don't hesitate to wander into some of the more residential districts located further from the city center. Certain off-the-beaten-path neighbourhoods, such as Shimokitazawa, Naka-Meguro, Koenji, and Nakano, can offer a complete change of scenery.

In the morning, send your luggage to your hotel in Matsumoto (details in your travel diary) so that you can travel light for your night in Kawaguchiko.

Go to Tokyo station and board a train for Kawaguchiko (3h journey, 1 change, details in your travel guide, included in your package). The train leaves the Japanese megalopolis and gradually winds its way through the valleys of the Mount Fuji region. You will arrive in Kawaguchiko in the late morning. 

Upon arrival, stash your bags at your hotel, conveniently located near the station. Then, it's finally time to delve into the wonders of the Five Lakes region!
- Capture Mount Fuji framed by the iconic Chureito Pagoda and be prepared for a rewarding climb - the view is worth every step 
- Next, embark on a scenic lake hopping adventure. Each glistening lake reflects Mount Fuji's majestic peak, offering countless opportunities for stunning photos 
- Take the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for a breathtaking panorama of both the lake and Mount Fuji. 

Consider renting a bike for a half-day adventure around scenic Lake Kawaguchiko, capturing stunning views of Mount Fuji along the way!

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before spending the morning taking in the beauty of Kawaguchiko and its surroundings.

Then, in the afternoon, embark on a scenic train journey (approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with two transfers) that will whisk you away to Matsumoto, a city nestled in the heart of the majestic Japanese Alps. 

Upon arrival, check into your hotel, conveniently located in the city center between the station and the castle.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Steeped in history, Matsumoto has preserved many traces of its prosperity from the feudal period. Yet, the crown jewel of the city is its imposing castle, nicknamed the "Crow" for its dramatic black exterior. This magnificent structure, the oldest of its kind in Japan, offers breathtaking panoramic views year-round.

Beyond its historical charm, Matsumoto thrived as an industrial and commercial center. Even today, the Nakamichi district preserves a unique collection of workshops from the Meiji era, offering a glimpse into the city's bustling past.

Discover the secrets of Matsumoto with a captivating half-day private tour and explore the city's rich history, including its iconic feudal castle and charming historical districts. This experience allows you to delve deeper into the past, perhaps even step into the shoes of a samurai for a morning with our expert guide Sylvain.

As part of your package, you'll also have the chance to participate in our exclusive activity: making your own soba noodles.

Second night in Matsumoto.

Breakfast at the hotel.

You have several options for this day. You can choose to continue exploring Matsumoto, notably its famous ukiyo-e Japanese woodblock print museum. Another possibility is to discover a wasabi farm in the surrounding area.

You can also opt for a day trip to the Nagano region (1-hour train ride, included in your offer), where you can visit the renowned Zenkō-ji temple or the Jigokudani Monkey Park, famous for its monkeys bathing in the hot springs.

Finally, if the season allows, Kamikochi will provide you with a refreshing and invigorating breath of fresh air in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Last night in your hotel in Matsumoto.

In the morning, take the bus from Matsumoto to Takayama. Enjoy the charms of the city at your own pace, its century-old homes, temples and museums.

We recommend you to visit:
- The traditional Kusakabe and Yoshijima houses 
- The Yatai Kaikan Exhibition Hall, where old religious festival floats are on display 
- The picturesque Showa-kan, museum on the 1940-70s 
- The old Sannomachi shopping district 
- The Fuji Folk Art Museum

About 15 minutes by train from the city of Takayama is the town of Hida-Furukawa, a rustic, authentic village. Around Hida-Furukawa is the countryside of Japan, where time seems to stand still. 

There, you can take a bike ride through the farming villages and rural landscapes of the Hida countryside. A perfect activity to see the opposite of the cities, and breathe the fresh mountain air. 

Second night in your hotel in Takayama.

Starting from Takayama, we suggest a day trip to a traditional village in the Japanese Alps, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Shirakawago!

Board a convenient bus to Shirakawago (included in your package) and immerse yourself in this charming village nestled in the Japanese Alps. Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage Site village and marvel at the traditional gassho-style farmhouses with their iconic steep thatched roofs. 

Consider stepping inside a minka, a traditional Japanese house, to get a glimpse into the local way of life. For those seeking spiritual serenity, a visit to the Myozen-ji temple, the village's Zen temple, is a must.

In the middle of the afternoon, head to Kanazawa by bus (included in your package). As an option, you can instead decide to stay in Shirakawago for one night, in a traditional lodging in the village.

On arrival, settle into your traditional Japan Experience house! A Travel Angel will welcome you, show you the house and help you to have an unforgettable stay in Kanazawa. 

You'll be able to "live the Japanese way" for a few days, in a space much bigger than a hotel room and with a kitchen to prepare your own food, if desired!

Night in Kanazawa.

Kanazawa, a captivating city situated between the northern coast of Japan and the dramatic peaks of the Japanese Alps, offers a fascinating mix of cultural heritage and contemporary attractions.

Your exploration could include a visit to Kenroku-en, one of Japan's most celebrated landscape gardens; or a journey through the modern art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art and its accompanying outdoor gallery.

Also, experience an immersion in the vibrant atmosphere of Omicho Market, where the freshest seafood from the Sea of Japan is showcased, and take a step back in time at Nomura House, the former residence of a samurai, located in Kanazawa's picturesque old quarter.

Your overnight stay will be at your house in Kanazawa.

Begin your journey to Hikone with a relaxing trip by shinkansen, followed by a scenic local train ride. This brings you to Hikone, a city dominated by the magnificent Hikone Castle, located in Shiga Prefecture.

This castle is not only one of Japan's most beautiful and historically significant, but also one of the rare twelve original castles still standing. Historically, its strategic importance was immense, safeguarding the approach to Kyoto and controlling traffic on Lake Biwa.

Stroll through the Genkyu-en garden, a late 17th-century Chinese-style creation centered around a large ornamental pond with picturesque islets and nine bridges. The garden's teahouse is a popular spot for kimono photoshoots. For panoramic castle views and a taste of tradition, visit the preserved Hosho-dai teahouse near the lake, where you can sample Japanese green tea.

Nearby, you can also explore Rakuraku-en, the former villa of the influential Ii family. In Konki Park, a bronze statue commemorates Naosuke Ii, a significant figure tragically assassinated by samurai from Mito Province who fiercely opposed his signing of the Harris Treaty, which opened Japan to Western trade.

Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Hikone.

Breakfast at your hotel.

After leaving Hikone, you'll take a local train to Kyoto for a direct and swift 2-hour journey.

With four full days to explore Kyoto, we suggest beginning your afternoon in the historic Gion district, conveniently located near your accommodation, to discover the impressive Kiyomizu-Dera, famous for its wooden stage.

Also, visit the charming and historic streets of Sannen-zaka & Ninen-zaka, and Kodai-ji, Kyoto's beautiful temple renowned for its stunning maple trees and tranquil bamboo groves.

For your second day in Kyoto, we suggest a captivating journey through some of the city's most renowned sites. 

Begin with the enigmatic Zen rock garden of Ryoan-ji, then marvel at the dazzling gold-leaf-covered Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), followed by the elegant beauty of Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and its surrounding gardens.

Afterwards, enjoy a tranquil stroll along the enchanting Philosopher's Path, a scenic canal-side walk, and conclude your exploration at the impressive Nanzen-ji Temple complex, one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples.

Continue your exploration of Kyoto by venturing west to discover some of its unique cultural and natural attractions. 

First, experiment a sensory immersion in Nishiki Market, Kyoto's bustling culinary heart, where you can sample local delicacies and admire the vibrant displays of fresh produce.

Then, step into the grandeur of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former residence of the shogun, offering a glimpse into the power and artistry of feudal Japan.

Finally, escape to the district of Arashiyama, renowned for its enchanting bamboo grove and the playful inhabitants of its monkey park, providing a refreshing contrast to the city's urban landscape.

Or, explore Nara, Japan's ancient first capital, established in the 700s, accessible by a quick train ride. In Nara, you can see old temples, peaceful gardens, and learn a lot about Japanese culture.

In the morning, you will take a shared shuttle or bus with other passengers from your hotel or a nearby hotel bound to Kansai International Airport (KIX). 

This transfer is included, but not accompanied, and will arrive at the airport between 1.5 and 3 hours before your flight departs. Please note that you may make stops before reaching the airport.

If you would prefer a private transfer at a time of your choosing and with no additional stops, please select the 'Private Taxi to Airport' option.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you are interested in extending your trip in Kansai or elsewhere. We would be happy to provide additional recommendations.

Welcome home!