This bespoke spring journey expertly weaves together the cream of Japan's Golden Triangle (Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka) with the captivating off-the-beaten-path beauty of Kyushu.
—Savor vibrant views of the choicest cherry blossoms in hand-picked, less-crowded settings.
—Enjoy rich culture, must-see major attractions, and exclusive hidden gems.
At Highlights Travel, we specialize in custom-tailored tours, meticulously designed to align with your personal preferences and desires, ensuring your dream trip to Japan becomes a reality. We encourage you to imagine how we could personalize your itinerary as you read on.
*The price is based on a private tour.
Travelers ❤ Highlights Travel Highlights Travel Reviews are updated monthly from Tripadvisor and Google. ×
Quinn, Kim, Kathi Adventure
Kimura was exceptional!! He was informative, knowledgeable and friendly. By the end of the tour, I had gained a new friend! The tour around Tokyo was fascinating! I learned so much about Japanese history and culture. I also learned about the public transportation system, which was very helpful when we were on our own the next day!
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Amazing!
Wonderful family trip in Osaka! Friendly locals, amazing food, and unforgettable visits to the food market, Ninja experinece and Osaka Castle. A perfect blend of fun and culture!
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We loved Japan!
We had the best time touring Japan with Johnny our tour guide and the company Asia highlights did an amazing job planning a perfect vacation from start to finish. We could never had planned nor implemented such a seamless vacation ourselves and 100% will be recommending to everyone we know!
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Fabulous family trip to Japan
Best way to travel thru a foreign country with teenagers who don’t always agree on what to do. Our itinerary was set before we left so there wasn’t any stress from planning our days during the trip. Having a driver with a big van and wonderful guides made getting around stress free. Everything was arranged perfectly.
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Best of Kyoto with the most amazing guides/driver
Best trip ever to Kyoto, Japan! The planning, quality of service and accommodations made this trip beyond enjoyable and relaxing. Our guide Andy was so knowledgeable and kind. He went out of his way to make sure we had the best experiences, that all our needs were met and offered great suggestions to add to our visit!
MoreRead 1000+ verified reviews on TripAdvisor
Hidden Japan Spring Tour Suggested Route
Highlights
Witness the harmonious blend of vibrant cherry and canola blossoms along the Oita River in tranquil Yufuin, far from the bustling crowds.
Discover the serene beauty and deep religious heritage of Kyoto's medieval temples and shrines, especially charming with cherry blossoms.
Marvel at Beppu's unique hot springs on the 'Hell Tour', and witness the mystical steam from the panoramic Steam Observatory.
Glide between the dramatic cliffs of Takachiho Gorge on a rowing boat, offering unparalleled views of its majestic waterfalls.
Explore the vast, dramatic landscapes of Mount Aso, Japan's largest active volcano, and witness its raw natural power up close.
Witness a spring-exclusive geisha cherry blossom dance performance in Kyoto, showcasing centuries of artistic tradition.
Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in an elegant kimono.
Unwind in a luxurious traditional ryokan with a private outdoor onsen in Japan's top hot spring region.
Savor diverse regional flavors, from Kyushu's unique 'hell-steamed'cuisine to Tokyo's exquisite sushi and Osaka's savory okonomiyaki.
Suggested Itinerary Details
Enjoy a personalized Japan Spring adventure with a private driver and guide for every day of sightseeing. Seamlessly transition from vibrant cities to serene countryside. Whether you're exploring historical landmarks or seeking cultural immersion, we will ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience.
Upon arrival in Osaka, a private transfer will be arranged to take you comfortably to your hotel. During the rest of the day, settle in and begin your Japanese adventure at your leisure.
- Begin your day exploring Osaka Castle Park, a historical landmark offering insights into Japan's past.
- Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kuromon Ichiba Market to observe the daily lives of locals and experience the authentic rhythm of the city.
- In the afternoon, embark on an immersive Osaka Food Tour through Dotonbori and the charming Hozen-ji alleys, where you can even try cooking your own okonomiyaki.
- Conclude your day with panoramic city views from the Umeda Sky Building.
- Begin the day by traveling from Osaka to Fukuoka by bullet train, then continue by vehicle transfer to charming Yufuin Onsen Town.
- Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of spring with a tranquil cherry blossom walk along Yufuin's Oita River, where cherry trees bloom alongside vibrant canola flowers.
- Explore the unique boutiques and cafés along Yufuin Yunotsubo Street.
- End your day with a serene stroll around Lake Kinrin, famous for its mystical steaming waters.
- Embark on a day trip from Yufuin to Beppu, starting with a visit to the traditional Yunohana Gassho Huts in Myoban Onsen, where 'hot-water flowers' are harvested.
- Experience the unique Jigoku-Mushi Kobo ('hell-steaming kitchen') on Beppu's Kannawa Onsen Street, where you can witness the art of steam cooking.
- Gain a breathtaking perspective of the city's geothermal activity from the Beppu Steam Observatory, where you can marvel at the rising mist.
- The highlight of the day is the Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour), where you'll visit four captivating "hells" with vibrant colors and bubbling mud.
- Conclude your Beppu exploration with a scenic ride up Mount Tsurumi via the Beppu Ropeway, offering stunning spring views.
- Travel through the picturesque landscapes of Kyushu, beginning with an unforgettable experience at Takachiho Gorge, where you can row a boat on its tranquil waters while admiring the dramatic cliffs and Manai Waterfall.
- Next, discover mystical Kamishikimi Kumanoza Shrine, a deeply atmospheric site nestled in a cedar forest.
- Conclude your day with an exploration of Mount Aso, Japan's largest active volcano, taking in its vast caldera and dramatic scenery (subject to volcanic activity).
- Day 6 provides the experience of an independent journey by bullet train from Fukuoka to Kyoto. Discover how satisfyingly reliable, slick, and easy to use Japanese transport is.
- Make your own way to Fukuoka Station, where we'll have your Shinkansen tickets prepared in advance for you. Board your Shinkansen to Kyoto, and then independently transfer to your hotel upon arrival.
- The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or begin your exploration of Kyoto at your leisure.
- Your Kyoto exploration begins at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
- Next, immerse yourself in the beauty of Shimo-Daigo-ji (Lower Daigo Temple), renowned as Kyoto's premier aged temple for cherry blossom viewing, where you'll witness breathtaking pink canopies.
- In the afternoon, wander through history-filled Gion district, where you may well catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko. Nearby, stroll the charming, nostalgic streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka.
- Conclude your day with an authentic traditional tea ceremony while wearing a kimono, offering a truly immersive cultural experience.
- Start your day at Hirano Shrine, celebrated for its diverse cherry blossoms and lively spring festival atmosphere.
- Continue to the stunning Kinkaku-ji temple (Golden Pavilion), its top two floors shimmering in gold leaf.
- Afterward, experience the serene beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and take in the scenic views from Togetsu-kyo bridge.
- For lunch, savor a unique Kyoto Tofu Set Meal, a local culinary specialty.
- In the afternoon, explore historically-rich Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens.
- Conclude your day by watching Miyako Odori: Geisha Cherry Blossom Dance, a captivating spring-exclusive performance.
- On day 9, you'll once again embark on independent travel, this time from Kyoto to Tokyo by bullet train.
- Make your way to Kyoto Station, where we'll have your Shinkansen tickets prepared in advance for you. Board your Shinkansen, and then transfer to your hotel upon arrival in Tokyo. We trust you'll discover Japan's smooth transport options have excellent service standards.
- The rest of the day is free for you to begin exploring Japan's bustling capital.
- Your guided tour of Tokyo begins at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, exploring the former site of Edo Castle.
- Delve into Japan's rich martial arts history at Samurai Ninja Museum Tokyo, where you'll learn about samurai and ninja with engaging activities.
- Enjoy a hands-onsushi-making experience to create your lunch, learning the art of preparing this iconic Japanese dish from a master.
- Conclude your day with breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo from the towering Tokyo Skytree.
- Enjoy a full day of independent exploration in Tokyo. The city is yours to discover!
- You might choose to dive into the magical worlds of Disneyland or DisneySea, indulge in a fantastic shopping spree in one of Tokyo's many vibrant districts, or simply take a well-deserved break to relax and recharge after your incredible journey.
- As your memorable journey concludes, a comfortable private transfer will be arranged to take you to the airport for your homeward-bound flight.
- We wish you a pleasant journey filled with delightful memories of Japan.
Hand-Picked Hotels
We have selected hotels with different styles and for different budgets. Let us know your preferences and we will help you find the right one.
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Kyoto Century Hotel(4-star)
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Yufuin Santokan(4-star)
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Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu(4-star)
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Hakata Excel Hotel Tokyu(4-star)
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Tour Price:
US$ 5,499 p/p (based on 4 persons, with 4-star hotel options)
- The price is based on a private tour for 2 people during the cherry blossom season.
- The price varies based on program, travel date, number of people.
- We could also price a tour including both 4-star and 5-star hotels for you.
- We accept payments in multiple currencies (GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR...).
Price Includes:
- Transportation:and private transfers.
- English-speaking local guide is available for the sightseeing day, excluding airport/train station pick-up/drop-off.
- Attraction tickets and itinerary activities
- Accommodation for all nights
- Trains between itinerary cities
- Hotel breakfasts are included. Lunch and dinner are not included unless specified in the itinerary.
- 24/7 helpline while touring
- Governmental taxes
Price Excludes:
- International flights not mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Visa fee, if applicable
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Personal expenses
Tour code: ah-jp-35
Inquire now! Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.
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At Japan Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.