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Cultural Immersion: Japan Off the Tourist Trail

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Curated for….

Itinerary Highlights

Duration:

16 days

Best Time to Travel:

April-May, October-November

Perfect For:

Cultural enthusiasts, culinary travellers, second-time visitors to Japan

  • Traditional ryokan stay with private onsen in a mountain village

  • Meditation session with monks at a working monastery

  • Exclusive tea ceremony in a private Kyoto residence

  • Culinary tour through backstreet izakayas with a food journalist

  • Artisan workshops: sword making, indigo dyeing, and washi paper crafting

  • Island-hopping in the Inland Sea with homestay experiences

  • Cutting-edge art and architecture on Naoshima Island

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Why This Experience Is Special
While many travellers experience the highlights of Tokyo and Kyoto, this journey reveals the layers of Japanese culture that remain hidden to most visitors. Born in Japan and having led cultural tours for over 15 years, Akiko has created an itinerary that balances ancient traditions with contemporary culture, famous sites with secret locals-only spots. What makes this journey truly distinctive is the people you'll meet—artisans practising crafts passed down through generations, culinary experts who will introduce you to flavours beyond sushi and ramen, and local families who open their homes and share their daily lives. Throughout the journey, Akiko's personal connections ensure doors open that would otherwise remain closed to travellers.

— Michael & June, Edinburgh

Client Highlight

"This trip was transformative. The balance Akiko created between iconic experiences and completely unexpected moments was perfect. Staying with a family in a small fishing village and helping prepare traditional meals gave us insights we could never have gained otherwise. And the artisan workshops were incredible—we're now proud owners of indigo textiles we helped create."

Ready to start planning your next journey?

Our Personal Travel Concierges are here to transform these ideas into your perfect travel experience.

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