Authentic Rural Japan
Nagano, Toyama, Kanazawa, Takayama & Nagoya
based on 6 nights & daily experiences
Price Guide:
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* Pricing is a guideline only and excludes special offers. Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
Price includes:
Accommodation
Private transfers
Shared transfers
Daily experiences
Daily Breakfast
Based on two people sharing. Includes all accommodation, combination of private and shared transfers and private English speaking guide.
At a Glance
Curated selection of boutique hotels and ryokan retreats
Explore the extraordinary samurai and geisha districts in Kanazawa
Visit the historic cities of Takayama and UNESCO protected Shirakawago in the scenic Kiso Valley
Dwell into the arts and crafts of rural Japan as you immerse in the Art Walk along Jinzu Gorge and witness the sake-carving experience
If you are visiting during winter, the iconic Snow Monkey Park is a classic
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Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
The best and most popular times to visit Japan are the climatically stable seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November). The highlight of spring is the cherry-blossom season, which usually arrives in early April. Fall is an equally good time to travel, with pleasant temperatures and soothing autumn colors, which usually peak between late October and mid-November. Of course, you can visit Japan anytime although the summer, from June to August, can be very hot and humid, and winter can be a little chilly for some people’s taste.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. To start planning your vacation
Itinerary
This journey brings you into the unsung heroes of Japan, including the impressive samurai and geisha districts of Kanazawa, the alpine villages of Shirakawago, the arts and crafts of Toyaka, sake brewery experience and the iconic Snow Monkey Park. See the authentic rural Japan away from the stereotypically bustling neon lights.
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Days 1-3: Yudanaka
Arriving into Tokyo, you will be met by our transfer assistant to board your high-speed train to Yudanaka.
Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, which sits at the foot of the Shiga Highlands and local Japanese macaques are often seen here bathing in the natural hot springs. Afterwards visit Obuse, home to sake warehouses and galleries.
On your final day, you will board the hotel shuttle to Yudanaka station, followed by a rail transfer to Toyama.
Accommodation: Hotel Senjukaku (2 nights)
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Days 3-4: Toyama
Spending a night on a riverside retreat in Toyama, you will enjoy our interesting Sake & Art Experience. You will visit Risaburou for a sake cup carving, before continuing for an art walk along the Jinzu Gorge for a sublime walk along the riverside with artworks by contemporary artists.
The next morning, you will be driven to Toyama station where you will board the shinkansen bullet train to Kanazawa.
Accommodation: River Retreat Garaku (1 night)
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Days 4-5: Kanazawa
Firstly serving as a feudal town with a strong samurai presence, Kanazawa is one of the most overlooked cultural destinations in Japan. During your day in Kanazawa, you will enjoy a tour of a sake brewery for some tasting.
You will also visit the magnificent Kenrokuen Garden, arguably one of top three most beautiful gardens in Japan. Proceed to Omicho Fresh Food Market with 170 stores selling fresh seafood.
Afterwards, visit the Samurai district of Nagamachi where the warriors used to live. Not to forget is the Higashiyama Geisha District.
Accommodation: Kanazawa Sainoniwa Hotel (1 night)
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Days 5-6: Takayama
Bidding farewell to Kanazawa, we will en route to Shirakawago where you will tour the picturesque alpine village with its traditional houses, shrines and temples, before continuing onwards to Takayama.
You will have a free morning in Takayama to explore the charming old town on your own. You may want to consider visiting the morning markets, the Sanmachi Historic District, as well as the historical government house of Takayama Jinya, or indulge in delicious lunch of Hidagyu Beef.
In the afternoon, you will take an express train to Nagoya.
Accommodation: Hidatei Hanaougi (1 night)
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Days 6-7: Nagoya
After an overnight rest in Nagoya, you will board train to the Nagoya International Airport, where you will board your flight home.
Accommodation: Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel (1 night)
Location
Nagano, Toyama, Kanazawa, Takayama & Nagoya
- 24/7 concierge service
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Firsthand knowledge
- Renowned service
- Award-winning tour operator