Signature Japan | 11 Days | From £9,750 pp
From £9,750 per person
/
Per Person
WHY THIS JOURNEY WORKS
Every journey we create is carefully considered, but this itinerary represents the very best of Secret Japan Travel. Designed for travellers who value thoughtful planning, exceptional accommodation and meaningful experiences, it offers a deeper understanding of Japan through its craftsmanship, architecture and regional culture.
Beginning in Tokyo before travelling through Kaga Onsen, Kanazawa, Echizen and Lake Biwa to Kyoto, the route moves at a measured pace through regions renowned for their artistry and quiet beauty. Private guiding is included where it adds the greatest value, balanced with time to explore independently and appreciate each destination without feeling overplanned.
From centuries-old papermaking traditions and gold-leaf craftsmanship to refined architecture, seasonal cuisine and conversations with skilled makers, every stage has been chosen because it reveals something distinctive about Japan. The result is a journey that feels personal, rewarding and quietly exceptional.
JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Stay in a carefully selected collection of boutique hotels, luxury ryokan and design-led accommodation.
- Explore Tokyo with a private guide, balancing famous landmarks with quieter historic districts.
- Relax in a traditional hot spring ryokan in Kaga Onsen.
- Discover Kanazawa's samurai heritage and celebrated artisan culture.
- Learn traditional gold-leaf techniques during a hands-on workshop.
- Create traditional washi paper in Echizen, where papermaking has continued for more than 1,500 years.
- Meet a master craftsman beside Lake Biwa and create your own Japanese knife.
- Conclude your journey in Kyoto with a traditional tea ceremony, sake tasting and visits to some of Japan's finest architectural and cultural treasures.
DAY 1 – Arrive in Tokyo
On arrival at Haneda or Narita Airport, you'll be met by your private driver and transferred to your design-led boutique hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring your surroundings at your own pace.
DAY 2 – Discover Tokyo
Meet your private guide for an introduction to Tokyo that balances famous landmarks with quieter corners of the city. Visit Tsukiji Outer Market, stroll through Hamarikyu Gardens, explore Senso-ji Temple and spend time wandering the historic streets of Kita-Shinagawa before returning to your hotel.
DAY 3 – Tokyo to Kaga Onsen
Travel by Shinkansen into central Japan before continuing to Kaga Onsen. After checking into your traditional ryokan, spend the afternoon relaxing in the natural hot springs before enjoying a beautifully prepared seasonal dinner.
DAY 4 – Kanazawa
Meet your private guide and discover one of Japan's finest historic cities. Explore the Nagamachi Samurai District and Kanazawa Castle before taking part in a hands-on kinpaku (gold-leaf) workshop, learning one of the city's most celebrated traditional crafts.
DAY 5 – Echizen
Travel by private vehicle with your guide to Echizen Washi Village, where papermaking traditions have continued for more than 1,500 years. Learn about the craft from local makers before creating your own sheet of traditional washi paper. Later, continue to your temple-side accommodation.
DAY 6 – Lake Biwa
Continue south towards Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. Here you'll spend time with a master craftsman, learning about the philosophy behind traditional Japanese blades before shaping your own small knife under expert guidance. Afterwards, continue to your contemporary lakeside retreat overlooking the lake.
DAY 7 – Lake Biwa
Enjoy a slower day beside Lake Biwa, allowing time to appreciate the peaceful surroundings before continuing your journey. The relaxed pace offers an opportunity to enjoy your hotel or explore the lakeside at leisure.
DAY 8 – Kyoto
Travel to Kyoto and settle into your hotel. Later, experience a traditional tea ceremony and sake tasting before spending time exploring the historic streets of Gion and the vibrant atmosphere of Nishiki Market.
DAY 9 – Arashiyama & Western Kyoto
Discover the landscapes of western Kyoto, visiting Tenryu-ji Temple before exploring Arashiyama. The remainder of the afternoon is free for independent exploration.
DAY 10 – Katsura Imperial Villa
Visit Katsura Imperial Villa, regarded as one of Japan's finest examples of residential architecture and garden design. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Kyoto at your own pace before your final evening in Japan.
DAY 11 – Depart Japan
After breakfast, your private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flight home.