Japan made real

Highlights

• Kayak around the Seto Inland Sea
• Admire Itsukushima’s iconic tori gate from the sea
• Relax on scenic Miyajima beach

Summary

Take to the waters for a kayaking adventure on Hiroshima's inland sea. Paddle across calm waters, circling the shores of Miyajima Island and stopping to admire the impressive vermillion gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Escape the tourist crowds to discover quiet beaches and enjoy mile after mile of spectacular views.

Highlights

• Travel from Takamatsu to the art island of Naoshima for an enchanting daytrip
• Ride an electric bike to multiple museums and installations around the island
• Ride an electric bike to multiple museums and installations around the island

Summary

Visit the enchanting island of Naoshima as a daytrip from Takamatsu. With a private guide along for the journey, explore the island both on foot and on bicycle, stopping at a selection of art installations and museums. It’s the perfect art island adventure for active travelers who want the experience this unique location as a manageable full day trip.

Highlights

• Explore the culinary heart of Tokyo with a knowledgeable and entertaining guide
• Interact with local vendors and get a feel for the dynamic outer market
• Learn how to make sushi, and savour an exquisite lunch

Summary

Tsukiji Market, which was reclaimed from the sea during the Edo Period (the name Tsukiji literally means ‘reclaimed land’), has long been the vibrant heart of Tokyo’s culinary culture. While the inner wholesale fish market has been relocated to Toyosu, the outer market – which boasts around 400 shops – remains a lively centre for visitors and locals alike to enjoy delicious food, and purchase kitchenware and a variety of local specialities and foodstuffs.

Highlights

• Partake in a tea ceremony at a traditional Kyoto house
• Don a kimono, the iconic Japanese garment
• Learn to make origami art

Summary

Dive into the rich traditions of Japan. Step through the doors of one of Kyoto's historic wooden houses and enter a world steeped in culture. Don a kimono and join a tea master for a quintessentially-Japanese ceremony followed by an introductory lesson to origami.

Highlights

• Enjoy the lively Osaka nightlife while sampling some of the best dishes the city has to offer
• Venture on a sybaritic escapade with a charismatic, food-loving guide
• Experience the heart and soul of the city, which is deeply connected to its food culture

Summary

Osaka may be home to various cultural and historic sites, but the true star of the show in this lively central Japan city is the food. Indeed, the motto that the city’s exuberant inhabitants live by is kuidaore – “to eat oneself bankrupt.”  Famous as a flavourful, delicious destination, Osaka is best enjoyed on an empty stomach and with a desire for culinary adventure. Set out to sample an eclectic mix of food on this filling look at Osaka’s most beloved dishes.

Highlights

• Watch the unusual training style of Japan’s sumo wrestlers
• Learn about the rituals and customs of traditional sumo
• Visit a typical ‘stable’ where the wrestlers live and train

Summary

Peak behind the scenes of Japan's most beloved sports: sumo wrestling. Spend a morning at an authentic sumo 'stable', the building where the wrestlers live, train, eat and sleep. Watch as the massive athletes go through their daily training rituals and learn about this important facet of local culture.

Highlights

• See Kyoto’s UNESCO sites
• Be captivated by vibrant Tokyo
• Explore Hakone’s natural beauty
• Stay in an authentic local inn
• Join an authentic tea ceremony

Summary

Be immersed in Japan’s rich culture with a memorable trip from Tokyo to Kyoto. After discovering the capital’s historic monuments and modern shopping districts head to Hakone to soak in onsens in the shadow of Mt. Fuji. Wrap up the trip in Kyoto, exploring serene temples and UNESCO-heritage sites.

Highlights

• Get an introduction to Tokyo
• Explore Hiroshima’s highlights
• Experience tea culture in Kyoto
• See Osaka’s mix of old and new
• Stoll around Kanazawa

Summary

See the iconic sites, cultural heritage and natural wonders that define Japan. Spend two weeks traveling from bustling Tokyo to historic Hiroshima to charming Kyoto and the hidden gems in between. With insightful guided tours, this tour goes beyond what the guidebooks say and steps into the heart of Japan.

Highlights

• Sample Japan's best food
• Visit UNESCO-heritage Kyoto
• Learn to make soba and sushi
• Taste Japanese Buddhist Shojin Ryori
• Stay in a traditional ryokan

Summary

From graceful geishas to savoury sushi, discover the culinary and cultural icons of Japan. Follow a food trail through Osaka, prepare noodles in Tokyo and discover buddhist cuisine. Then get a dose of culture in UNESCO-filled Kyoto, explore the south of Japan tastes in Fukuoka and witness age-old traditions at every turn.

Highlights

• See Tokyo’s kid-friendly sites
• Explore Kyoto’s famous shrines
• Visit Yokohama’s quirky museums
• Learn to make traditional food
• Explore kid-friendly Japan

Summary

From encounters with samurais to towering robots, hands-on cooking classes to walks amid beguiling landscapes, this two-week Japan family holiday packs a lot of punch. Be immersed in the local culture and discover Japan’s incredible history with guided excursions sure to please both kids and adults. 

Highlights

• One of the best view of Japan
• See the Funaya
• Meet the craftsmen

Summary

Discover the north coast of Kyoto Prefecture, a beautiful land home to Ine, a rustic fishing village with unique boathouses. Stay overnight in one of these special homes and meet local fisherman and artisans who keep the old ways alive in this delightful seaside destination. Perfect for travelers looking to get off the Golden Route and experience something truly extraordinary and culturally immersive.

Note to agents: Booking this package requires signing the Ine Village Sustainability Pledge, a sustainable travel agreement
created in partnership with locals when staying in the boat houses. Ask your EXO Travel consultant for more
details.

Highlights

• Trek through historic Nakasendo
• See Tsumago’s heritage buildings
• Hike to atmospheric post towns
• Cross Edo Period bridges
• Admire Japan’s scenic nature

Summary

Step back in time with a three-day trek along Japan’s historic Nakasendo trails. Walk through pristine forests and enjoy the tranquillity of the Japanese countryside. On the way, stop in atmospheric post villages with well-preserved Edo period buildings to discover the rich traditions of these small, rural communities. 

Highlights

• Cycle along the iconic Shimanami Kaido route
• Uncover the incredible stories of Oyamazumi Shrine
• Visit important historical locations hidden in the Seto Inland Sea

Summary

Embark on a cycling adventure across the Seto Inland Sea surrounded by magnificent views of the Japanese coast and islets. Visit many unique points of interest with the guide along the Shimanami Kaido and relax in the evening over a delicious BBQ. The rest of the trip is your choice entirely, whether it's continuing more scenic cycling routes with fascinating historical spots, marveling at the beauty of Tomonoura or diving into the culture of a nearby Takehara.