Explore the back roads of japan

Discover Japan's Past & Present

Immersive Culture

Wander off the beaten path away from Japan’s big cities and popular sites with this 11-day tour that takes you to destinations that are often overlooked. Visit the treasured castle of Matsumoto and learn about samurai culture, relax in a traditional hot spring-fed onsen, explore the quaint city of Hagi by bicycle, and settle in at a community homestay to truly immerse yourself in the local culture. Of course, there’s time before and after to explore Tokyo and Kyoto, making this trip a well-rounded glimpse into Japan’s past and present.

All the things you need to know

  • Traditional Paper-making Lesson, Mihomisumi
  • Modern Tokyo walking tour
  • Zenkoji Temple visit (Nagano)
  • Jigokudani Monkey Park visit (Nagano)
  • Matsumoto Castle visit
  • Hagi Community Homestay, Hagi
  • Hagi Community Homestay welcome ceremony
  • Hagi cycling tour
  • Tottori sand dunes visit
  • Tottori fish market visit
  • Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine visit

Meet your group and tour guide.

Your guide will take you on a walking tour of eclectic modern Tokyo from the hub of Shinjuku to Shibuya through to Harajuku. The rest of the day is free for exploring more of the city.

Take a guided journey through the history of Lima and explore the capital’s main sights including the beautiful square and Cathedral. You will also have time to stop at the Chocolate Museum!

Gastronomic Experience – Lima Foodie Tour

The most representative flavours of Peruvian cuisine will be waiting for you as you embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure. Begin your journey in a typical Peruvian market and end the tour by preparing and enjoying some popular local dishes.

Active Experience – Art & Culture Bike Tour

Explore Lima on a bike tour and visit cultural hotspots such as the bohemian district of Barranco, birthplace of distinguished artists and known for its colourful buildings and street art.

Journey to Nagano, located in the Japanese Alps and host city of the 1998 Winter Olympics. Discover the world-famous Jigokudani Monkey Park and watch Japanese snow monkeys bathing in the natural hot springs.

Enjoy a day-trip to quaint Matsumoto and visit one of Japan’s most treasured castles. Return to Nagano and explore historic Zenkoji Temple.

Travel to Otsu in Shiga prefecture, located on the banks of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake. Visit an onsen and relax with a dip in the healing waters of these Japanese style hot springs, before heading out to enjoy a delicious bowl of Ramen for dinner.

Grab a quick breakfast before heading off, on a long travel day. In the late afternoon, arrive in the quaint city of Hagi, a former castle town that boasts feudal architecture. Take part in a welcome ceremony with the local residents, and meet your host family at a community homestay, a G Adventures for Good project. Get to know each other as you enjoy dinner together.

Explore rural Hagi on a guided morning cycle, spotting samurai architecture along the way. On return, experience authentic Japanese countryside life by partaking in seasonal activities with the community. Return to your homestay in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner with your host family.

Bid farewell to your host family after enjoying breakfast together. Later, travel to Miho-misumi by train, taking in scenic views along the way. Learn the art of making “washi,” a UNESCO-recognized traditional Japanese paper before continuing to the seaside town of Tottori.

Spend the morning exploring Tottori’s scenic sand dunes, some reaching 50m (164 ft) in height. After, visit the local fish market and opt for a fresh seafood lunch. In the late afternoon, travel to Kyoto for two nights in the traditional heart of Japan.

Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famed for an impressive 10,000 red torii gates. This afternoon, enjoy free time in this picturesque city. Opt to experience zen gardens, teahouses, shrines, and local gift shops – and maybe even spot a real-life geisha.

Depart at any time.

  • Various meals
  • Japan Rail (JR) pass (7 days)
  • Flights & accommodation
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
  • Meals
    Various meals included
  • 3/4* Accommodation
  • Transport
    International flights, Transports

Gallery

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Let's Chat

We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.

Let's Chat

We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.