Hiking Tour of Japan

(12 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Tokyo, Matsumoto, Takayama & Kamikochi, Kyoto, Hakone & Mount Fuji

Begin in dynamic Tokyo, Japan’s capital of style and innovation. During private touring, explore interesting neighborhoods such as Shibuya, Harajuku and Ginza. Tour important historic sites and experience Japan’s vibrant pop culture. Artisans of Leisure can also make reservations at our favorite restaurants in Tokyo, which range from local noodle shops to some of the most acclaimed restaurants in the world.
Next, travel by train to Matsumoto, a picturesque castle town with views of the stunning Japan Alps. Spend the afternoon exploring the castle, visiting sculpture gardens or art museums, and learning about traditional folklore. Spend the night at a luxury Relais & Chateaux-affiliated ryokan (traditional inn), and enjoy a soak in the therapeutic onsen (hot springs).

Visit Kamikochi, one of the most legendary hiking destinations in the Japan Alps to enjoy a morning hike with a nature specialist. Continue to Takayama, a tradition-steeped hamlet in the shadow of the Japan Alps. Visit the morning market, traditional merchant houses, specialty shops and an outdoor museum featuring thatched-roof farmhouses from throughout the region.

Next, travel to enchanting Kyoto, Japan’s heart of culture and tradition. During touring with your private guide and driver, experience the best of this elegant city. Visit important temples, shrines and gardens. Enjoy an exclusive private tea ceremony. Stroll through a bamboo forest. Enjoy a Buddhist vegetarian lunch at a local temple. Tour traditional geisha districts such as Gion. Visit markets and food purveyors to sample Kyoto’s culinary specialties, considered the most refined in Japan. One day, enjoy a hike with your private guide to beautiful temples and ancient shrines in the mountains surrounding Kyoto.

Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can also arrange a wide range of other unique activities in Kyoto, such as an exclusive private dinner accompanied by geisha and maiko, private Zen meditation in a local temple, meetings with local craftspeople, ikebana (flower arranging) lessons, a cooking class in a private home, manga drawing lessons, or a visit to a machiya (traditional merchant house).

Continue by first-class shinkansen (bullet train) to Hakone, a volcanic national park renowned for hot springs and views of iconic Mount Fuji. Stay at one of Japan’s most luxurious and renowned ryokan, where you can soak in your own private outdoor hot spring bath and enjoy a gourmet kaiseki (seasonal tasting menu) dinner. During private touring, explore Hakone’s geothermal areas, forested mountains and historical sites, including a walk along an original section of the Old Tokaido Road. If desired, full-day hikes or overnight trekking extensions on Mount Fuji can be arranged for serious hikers.

Return to Tokyo for last-minute shopping, dining, and free time to enjoy the city.