11 days
|£4,795pp
This undiscovered Japan itinerary reveals a side of the country that few visitors experience. From Osaka’s neon glow and culinary scene to the remote valleys and art islands of Shikoku, it’s a journey through creativity, culture and mystical landscapes.
Discover Naoshima’s world-class art scene, wander through Edo-period castle towns, cross vine bridges in mountain gorges, and soak in some of Japan’s most historic hot springs.
Each day brings plenty of cultural depth and scenic beauty, making for a thoughtful journey through Japan’s lesser-known heartlands.
Arrive in Osaka, Japan’s dynamic gateway city. After your flight, meet your local representative for assistance with transfers into the city. Spend the evening unwinding or head out to explore Osaka’s renowned street food scene. Takoyaki and okonomiyaki are local favourites best enjoyed in the lively districts of Dotonbori and Namba.
Travel south across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge, linking Honshu with Shikoku. Pause to enjoy sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea before arriving in Tokushima, a city famous for its annual Awa Odori dance festival. Spend the evening along the riverside, sampling local ramen or exploring the city’s relaxed nightlife.
Today offers a window into Tokushima’s deep artistic traditions. Visit a Bunraku puppet theatre, where expressive wooden figures come to life through intricate choreography and centuries-old storytelling. Later, enjoy panoramic views from Mount Bizan or visit the Awa Odori Kaikan museum for an introduction to Tokushima’s famous summer dance, complete with live demonstrations.
Board a coastal train to Takamatsu, a city known for its exquisite gardens and coastal charm. Spend the day exploring Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan’s most celebrated landscaped gardens, where pavilions and ponds reflect centuries of careful design. Stroll shaded pathways and enjoy tea in a traditional teahouse before trying the local specialty, Sanuki udon, for dinner.
Take a ferry across the Seto Inland Sea to Naoshima, Japan’s “art island.” Explore the Chichu Art Museum, home to works by Monet, Turrell and De Maria, ingeniously integrated into the landscape. Visit the Benesse House installations and the island’s outdoor sculptures, including Yayoi Kusama’s famous pumpkin series. Depending on the day, you may also visit nearby Teshima or Inujima, smaller islands with equally innovative art spaces.
Collect your rental car and journey deep into the Iya Valley, a secluded region of dramatic gorges, vine bridges and mountain scenery. Stop to cross the Kazurabashi Bridge, suspended over the river and woven entirely from vines, before continuing to your onsen retreat. Spend the evening soaking in thermal waters surrounded by nature – an unforgettable experience in one of Japan’s most remote settings.
Begin the day with a gentle adventure in the Oboke Gorge, where you can try white-water rafting through crystal-clear rapids beneath towering cliffs. Afterward, explore the gorge’s scenic trails or visit the local folklore museum dedicated to Japan’s mythical yokai spirits. Return to your accommodation to unwind with a traditional dinner and a final soak in the hot springs.
After breakfast, drive west to Kannonji, returning your car before boarding a train to Matsuyama. The city is known for its relaxed pace and elegant charm, with highlights including Matsuyama Castle, perched on a hilltop, and Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest public bathhouses. Spend your evening exploring the town’s small streets and local dining spots.
Discover Matsuyama’s feudal past with a visit to Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s best-preserved fortresses, offering panoramic views over the city and sea. Later, explore the historic Dogo Onsen, whose ornate wooden bathhouse has inspired artists and filmmakers alike. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure – perhaps taking a slow walk through local gardens or enjoying another restorative soak.
Travel north by train towards Okayama to visit Korakuen, one of Japan’s three most celebrated gardens. Its landscaped bridges, ponds and teahouses reflect centuries of meticulous care. Later, continue on to Tokyo for your final evening. You may choose to explore Shinjuku’s skyline, sample sushi in Ginza, or take a quiet evening stroll along the Sumida River.
Enjoy a leisurely morning before your private transfer to the airport. Your Japanese journey ends here – a collection of remote valleys, mountain springs, and islands where tradition and artistry remain beautifully alive.
Tell us how you want to feel, we’ll take it from there.
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