Colours of Northern Japan (Kanto & Nebuta Festivals)

Welcome to Japan and its buzzing capital, Tokyo! This amazing country is a fascinating mix of ancient traditions and futuristic wonders, where centuries-old rituals meet the latest tech marvels. From the delicate art of perfectly rolled sushi to robots greeting you in lively streets, Japan invites you to explore a culture that honours its past while racing toward tomorrow. Every corner has a story, and the energy is truly contagious.

To help you settle in and meet your fellow travellers, we recommend arriving at the hotel by 5:30 pm for dinner with our friendly tour guide. If your flight gets in a little later and you miss dinner, not to worry — we'll reconnect bright and early tomorrow morning as we dive into the heart of Tokyo together.

When you check in, look out for a letter with all the details you'll need, including start times and your guide's information.

Old and new Tokyo is ours to explore today, and we'll see just how beautifully the two come together as we visit some of the city's most iconic sights.

We'll begin our day in the Shibuya-ku district with a visit to Meiji Jingū Shrine, a peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Surrounded by forest, it's a calm and reflective spot tucked away from the fast pace of city life.

Next, we head into the heart of the action as we pass through Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest pedestrian intersection. Watching the crowds weave through one another is like seeing Tokyo's rhythm in motion. We'll have time here to grab a bite and enjoy a bit of people-watching — a warm bowl of ramen or a fresh sushi set makes the perfect lunch.

Special Experience: Delve into a kaleidoscopic world of interactive art installations at TeamLab Digital Museum. You’ll be wowed by the bright lights and futuristic works of art.

In the afternoon, we'll visit TeamLab, where digital art comes alive all around you. This immersive museum reacts to your movement with light, sound and colour. At one point, you'll walk barefoot through knee-high water so please dress comfortably and bring a bit of curiosity.

As evening falls, we'll board a traditional Yakatabune, a Japanese-style houseboat dating back to the Heian era. As we cruise along Tokyo Bay, we'll enjoy a welcome dinner and take in the stunning views of the sparkling skyline.

Today we'll swap the city lights for countryside charm as we head north with our guide into the scenic Tochigi region.

Our first stop is Nikkō to visit the remarkable Tōshōgū Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the powerful shogun who unified Japan in the early 1600s. This richly decorated shrine sits in a quiet cedar forest and features intricate carvings and detailed architecture, including the well-known “see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” monkeys. We'll pause for lunch at a local restaurant to enjoy some regional flavours before continuing our journey.

We will then enjoy a short drive to visit the dramatic Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan's most celebrated natural sights. The waterfall drops straight from Lake Chūzenji, which we'll also visit for a lovely photo opportunity. This peaceful lake sits at the foot of Mt. Nantai and was once a popular retreat for diplomats and dignitaries.

From there, we make our way to Utsunomiya Station and hop aboard Japan's famous bullet train for a smooth, high-speed ride to Sendai. Known as the City of Trees, Sendai welcomes us with its broad, leafy boulevards and relaxed atmosphere.

From the station, it's just a short walk to our hotel, where we'll settle in and rest up for tomorrow's discoveries.

Sendai was founded by the legendary samurai lord Date Masamune, a visionary warrior known for embracing new ideas and even reaching out to the West. This morning, we'll pass by Aobayama Castle, once his stronghold. You'll also see the imposing statue of Date Masamune himself, nicknamed the ‘One-Eyed Dragon' for his fierce spirit and distinctive eye patch, which he reportedly lost as a child after smallpox, but that never slowed him down, a true symbol of Sendai's rich history.

Our journey continues to the breathtaking Matsushima Bay, celebrated as one of Japan's three most scenic views. With over 260 pine-covered islands dotting the sparkling waters, it's a sight that has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Here, we'll visit Zuigan-ji Temple, a peaceful Zen Buddhist sanctuary famed for its wooden carvings and serene gardens.

After some free time to explore Matsushima and lunch at your own pace, we'll board a boat for a scenic cruise from Shiogama to Matsushima Pier, soaking up the peaceful beauty of the bay. Later, we'll have a delightful Kokeshi doll painting experience. These traditional handcrafted wooden dolls are a local specialty, and you'll get to create your own colourful keepsake to treasure.

As the day winds down, we return to Sendai with hearts full of culture, history and stunning scenery.

Bright and early, we'll set off to Geibikei, a picturesque ravine carved by the Satetsu River and celebrated as one of Japan's top three greatest gorges. As we float gently along, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, you'll feel a real sense of peace and connection to Japan's breathtaking natural beauty.

Special Experience: Admire the impressive waterfalls, rock formations and limestone caves as you glide through Geibikei Gorge on a scenic boat trip.

Next, we'll visit Chūson-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasure founded way back in 850 by the Tendai sect. This temple was built to honour the souls lost in two historic wars and is home to the dazzling Konjikidō Hall. This small golden gem shines with intricate gold leaf, shimmering mother-of-pearl inlays, and delicate Heian period artistry, offering us a beautifully rich glimpse into Japan's fascinating past.

By late afternoon, we'll arrive in Morioka, a charming town surrounded by mountains and rivers. After settling into our traditional ryokan, complete with tatami mat rooms and soothing onsen baths, we'll head out to enjoy the Morioka Sansa Odori Festival. With colourful dancers, joyful taiko drumming and a sea of happy faces, it's a celebration full of warmth and rhythm. Don't feel shy, clap along, join in and let yourself be swept up in the joy of it all.

Textiles have long been a source of pride in Morioka, and we'll begin the day by exploring this rich crafting tradition with a visit to Tezukurimura. Under the guidance of skilled local artisans, we'll try our hand at indigo dyeing, a centuries-old process that creates stunning blue fabrics, each one with its own unique pattern.

Special Experience: Take part in the local Wanko Soba tradition at a lunch in Morioka. Tiny bowls of soba noodles are served one after another until you're cheerfully full. It's a fun, fast-paced way to enjoy this delicious local specialty with a local twist.

Afterwards, we'll wander through Morioka Castle Ruins Park, a peaceful spot where the original castle once stood. Although only the stone foundations remain, the tranquil setting and beautiful views speak to a time when samurai walked these grounds.

Later, we'll visit Asabiraki Sake Brewery to discover how Japan's famous sake is crafted, learning the ancient process of cultivating rice and transforming it into this delicious ‘Japanese liquor.' Of course, no visit would be complete without a tasting session to wet our whistles.

Back at the hotel, we'll have some free time before we gather for another tasty Japanese-style dinner and a relaxing evening.

Japan's rich history and vibrant culture truly come alive in the many museums sprinkled throughout Iwate and Akita Prefectures. These regions are packed with fascinating stories from timeless crafts to samurai legends and lively local festivals. Today we'll journey from Morioka to Akita, soaking up culture, charm, and a touch of festival magic along the way.

This morning we'll travel to Kakunodate, a charming little town often called the 'Little Kyoto of Tōhoku' thanks to its beautifully preserved samurai district.

Special Experience: Explore the Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum, discovering the rich history and way of life of the samurai and their wealthy families. Set on nearly 10,000 square metres, this estate has six galleries to explore, from the elegant Main House to the Armory and even a Samurai Tool Museum.

Next, we'll head to the rugged coastline of Oga, where we meet the legendary Namahage at the Namahage Museum. These fearsome, costumed figures once visited homes during New Year to scare off bad spirits. Just nearby, the Shinzan Folklore Museum offers a warm look into traditional life in this unique region.

By evening, we'll arrive in Akita City, where time seems to slow and the welcome feels warm. After a relaxed dinner, we'll step out to join the excitement of the Akita Kanto Festival. This dazzling summer celebration lights up the night as performers expertly balance towering bamboo poles hung with glowing lanterns on their palms, shoulders, and even foreheads. The steady beat of drums fills the air, adding to the festival's joyful and lively spirit, a joyful way to end our day.

Our morning begins as we travel to Hirosaki, a charming city known for its apple orchards and beautifully preserved architecture. After lunch we’ll spend some time walking through the orchards at the Hirosaki Apple Park.

Next we visit the Tsugaru Neputa Village, where we’ll be treated to a wonderful introduction to local culture and craftsmanship. One of the highlights is a live performance of the Tsugaru shamisen, a traditional three-stringed instrument known for its bold and expressive sound.

In the heart of the city is Hirosaki Castle, a 17th century fortress surrounded by moats and lush summer gardens. In the warmer months, the castle grounds come alive with deep green foliage, blooming lotus flowers on the water, and shaded paths perfect for a gentle stroll. It's a peaceful and scenic spot to stretch our legs, take in the summer air, and enjoy a glimpse into Japan's rich history.

After dinner, we'll head out to enjoy the Neputa Festival. Glowing fan-shaped floats parade through the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of taiko drums and the sweet melodies of flutes. It's colourful, full of energy, and a wonderful chance to be part of a cherished summer tradition.

When the festivities wind down, we'll settle for a relaxing journey towards Aomori, where our beautiful accommodation for the next couple of nights await.

Aomori and the surrounding areas are blessed with natural beauty, and today we'll take our time to enjoy some of its most peaceful and picture-perfect spots. We'll start with a visit to Lake Towada, a stunning double-caldera lake perched 400 metres above sea level. It's the largest of its kind on Honshū, and on a clear day, the waters are so pure you can see down more than ten metres.

After breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the views, we'll enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the lake, sampling delicious regional dishes.

Next, we'll make our way to Oirase Keiryū, a lush, forested gorge that's home to one of Japan's most scenic river walks. The stream meanders through moss-covered rocks, quiet pools, and waterfalls with charming names like ‘Two Dragons,' ‘Happy Marriage,' and ‘Bead Curtain.' With sunlight filtering through the trees, mossy stones underfoot, and the soothing sound of flowing water, it's the kind of place that instantly puts you at ease.

After our afternoon adventure, we'll continue to Aomori City, known for fresh seafood and the warm hospitality of northern Japan. There'll be time to sample the local flavours over dinner before the highlight of the evening begins.

Tonight, we experience the vibrant Aomori Nebuta Festival, one of Japan's most spectacular celebrations. Towering, illuminated warrior floats light up the streets as energetic dancers shout 'Rassera!' and the air fills with the beat of taiko drums and the sound of flutes. We'll even have the chance to join in by wearing a haneto costume, truly immersing ourselves in this unforgettable cultural experience.

Our day begins at Sannai-Maruyama, an incredible archaeological site where an ancient Jōmon village once thrived. With over 700 structures, this was a bustling community thousands of years ago. As we wander among the ruins, you'll feel a gentle connection to a time when people lived in harmony with nature.

Next, we'll catch the bullet train at Shin-Aomori Station for a smooth, speedy ride to Hakodate on beautiful Hokkaidō Island. Nestled between Hakodate Harbour and the Tsugaru Strait, this city was one of the first in Japan to open to the world. You'll spot hints of international influence in its unique architecture, giving the place a special character.

Once we arrive, we'll visit Onuma Park, a peaceful quasi-national park known for its stunning Mount Komagatake volcano and lakes dotted with small islands connected by quaint bridges. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and fresh air.

From there, we'll head to Goryōkaku Tower, where we'll enjoy panoramic views of the star-shaped Goryōkaku Fort, a fascinating fortress from the late Edo period.

To finish the day, we'll ride the Hakodate Ropeway up Mount Hakodate and take in magical views of the city lights sparkling below. Afterwards, we'll relax with dinner at a local restaurant.

Hakodate began as a small fishing port, but when Japan opened to the world in the 1800s, it quickly transformed into one of the country's first international cities. Today, we'll explore the very places where that exciting change took shape.

We'll begin with a guided walk through the lively Hakodate Morning Market. This bustling spot has been around since the 1940s and is packed with over 250 colourful stalls selling everything from fresh scallops and king crab to sweet Hokkaidō melons. You'll have time to wander at your own pace, maybe chat with the vendors or try a delicious ‘kaisen-don,' a seafood bowl made just the way you like it.

Next, we'll head up to the Motomachi district at the foot of Mount Hakodate. This charming neighbourhood was once home to traders from Russia, China and the West who brought their own architectural styles with them. We'll visit the elegant Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, built in 1910, where East meets West in beautiful design and sweeping bay views.

From there, it's on to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, now home to lovely shops, cafés and galleries along the waterfront.

We'll return to the hotel in the afternoon, with your evening free to enjoy at your own pace.

We'll say goodbye to the sparkling views of Hakodate and the memories we've made as we board a local train to Sapporo, the energetic capital of Hokkaidō. As Japan's fifth largest city, Sapporo has a warm charm that blends lively, neon-lit streets with peaceful parks, tempting shops and a food scene that locals are proud of. It's also known for its snowy winters and was the first Asian city to host the Winter Olympics in 1972. If you've ever seen those incredible ice sculptures in travel magazines, they likely came from Sapporo's famous Snow Festival, which brings the whole city to life every February.

After we arrive, we'll visit the Hokkaidō Shrine, tucked inside the lovely Maruyama Park. Built in 1869, it's a place of quiet reflection and one of the most important Shintō sites on the island. It's especially loved in spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom and the park turns into a sea of soft pink.

Then, we'll head to the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium and the Sapporo Olympic Museum. We'll take a gentle chairlift ride to the top of the jump for sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Later, we'll return to the hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at your own pace.

We'll start our day with some lovely free time to explore Sapporo at your own pace, easing gently into the morning and soaking up the city's relaxed atmosphere.

In the early afternoon, we'll wander through the Historical Village of Hokkaidō, Kaitaku no Mura. This open-air museum features beautifully preserved buildings from the Meiji and Taishō periods. We'll get to see old farmhouses, schools and shops, each one telling a story of the pioneers who settled this rugged land in the late 1800s. It's a delightful way to imagine what daily life was like in early Hokkaidō.

Next, we'll head to the Sapporo Beer Museum, a real treat for beer lovers. Founded in 1876, Sapporo is Japan's oldest brewery and has played a major role in shaping the country's beer culture. We'll explore its fascinating history and brewing process, then enjoy a tasting of their special ‘Fukkoku Sapporo Bakushu,' a unique brew made with traditional methods dating back to 1881.

After a day full of discoveries, we'll return to the hotel to relax and freshen up before our farewell dinner. It'll be a joyful celebration of the amazing journey we've shared together.

Our tour wraps up after breakfast this morning. We hope you've felt the spirit of 'omotenashi,' Japan's warm hospitality, all along the way — and that you're taking home great memories and some lifelong friends!