Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 12 Day Active Japan: Kyoto to Tokyo Island Hopping. Japan is a country where futuristic cities meet timeless traditions, and this 12-day adventure showcases both sides perfectly. Start in the vibrant streets of Kyoto and Tokyo before diving deep into Okinawa’s lesser-known islands, where ancient customs are still alive and well. Pedal through the charming village houses of Taketomi Island, soak in the serenity of Yambaru National Park with some forest bathing, and hop aboard a traditional Sabani boat to sail the stunning Ishigaki coastline. read more This trip is the ultimate blend of city buzz and island adventure — so, what are you waiting for?
Trip Length
12 Days
Trip Starts
Kyoto
Trip Ends
Tokyo
Departures
Jun 2026 to Oct 2028
Countries Visited:
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
Active
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Moderate
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
AJKT
Itinerary
Arrive at any time. Join your CEO for a welcome briefing and an optional dinner in Kyoto.
Included Experiences
- Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Start your Kyoto based explorations with one of the iconic hikes outside the Kyoto downtown area. Hike from Kurama village to Kibune-two villages that mark the start and endpoint of the hike. As you wind your way through the canopied forest, visit the Yuki shrine and Kurama-dera temple.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- CEO-Led Hiking Tour from Kurama to Kibune: Transfer by train and subway to Kurama Station and begin your CEO-led hike. Walk between these two picturesque, quaint villages in the Kitayama Mountains and follow the stone steps up into the verdant, mist-shrouded forests. Pass through the highland and visit smaller temples and search for spring water outlets flowing down the trail. Stop along the way at the Kurama-dera Temple—located atop the mountain with stunning views of the countryside, Yuki Shrine, Maoden, ending at Kibune Shrine. The total hike time will be 2.5 hours for a total of 3.9km and a total elevation gain of 584m.
Explore Experiences
Kyoto
The final day in Kyoto begins with the iconic visit to Fushimi Inari shrine. Walk for around 2 hours under the vibrant torii gates as you make your way along the various trails. Although this is a popular activity, it's worth it for the expansive views across Southern Kyoto. Spend the afternoon at leisure in Kyoto.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Hike: Hike up Fushimi Inari through 10,000 stunning torii gates (as seen in the film Memoirs of a Geisha). The shrine itself is at the base of the Inari mountain but includes many trails up to smaller shrines in the area. The hike up is about 2 hrs.
- Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon in the beautiful town of Kyoto.
Optional Experiences
- Nijo Castle and Gardens Visit: Visit the Nijo Castle, the residence of the first shogun of the Edo Period built in 1603. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the property is divided into three areas: the Honmaru (main circular fortification), Ninomaru (secondary circle of defense), and the gorgeous gardens that surround both.
- Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion Visit: Explore Kinkaku-ji or the Golden Pavilion, named for the temple’s top two floors that are covered in gold leaf. The temple is surrounded by trees and sits on a reflective pond, making this must-see in Kyoto a perfect place for photos. While the temple can be busy, there are gardens around the area to explore once you’ve had enough of the view.
- Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji: The Ryōan-ji garden is one of the best examples of kare-sansui, or dry landscape, a type of Zen garden. Fifteen large rocks are placed within a sea of white pebbles raked into linear patterns to facilitate meditation. Stand on the platform to get the best view from above. Stroll the grounds around the Ryoan-ji Temple and along the Kyoyo-chi pond.
Explore Experiences
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Let the island hopping begin. Board a domestic flight bound for Naha airport, in Okinawa. Naha is the main gateway for travelers in and out of Okinawa. Upon arrival, hop onto a private transport and make your way north towards Yanbaru National Park. This area is not popular on the tourist route due to its more remote location, and indeed feels a bit like a hidden gem.
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Spend a free evening after arriving to Okinawa.
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Embark on a guided walk through part of Yambaru Forest, spotting native flora and fauna on the Ibe-dake Forest Trail Trek. After a picnic lunch, head towards to the seaside and join your local guide on a guided sea kayaking excursion to Yasuda island. After a busy day, enjoy a dinner out together.
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Ibe-dake Forest Trail Trek: Trek along the Ibe-dake forest path through the Special Wildlife Protection Area and learn about the history and ancient wisdom of protecting this precious forest.
- Yanbaru Sea Kayaking: Kayak to the uninhabited island of Yasuda off the coast of Yanbaru. Taking about 30 minutes one way, we'll glide over pristine reef and through crystal clear water, clear enough to see the colorful coral and bright fish. Explore Yasuda island's white sand and relax on the beach, where sea turtles sometimes visit, before paddling back to the coast.
Another day, another island. Today, head even further south to Ishigaki island. Still part of Okinawa, Ishigaki technically sits closer to Taiwan than to mainland Japan. Join your CEO and fellow travelers for a delicious dinner sampling famous Okinawan ryōri (food).
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Spend a free evening in Ishigaki before a group dinner.
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
In the Hirakubo Peninsula in northern Ishigaki, hop aboard a Sabani, the traditional Okinawan sailboat, and cruise along the shores of the peninsula. Hop into the water to snorkel if you choose, or just admire the stunning untouched environment. These boats are hand carved in the traditional way from hollowed logs, and only hold 6 persons per boat. Enjoy this rare opportunity to enjoy a piece of Okinawan cultural heritage. During the paddle, we'll jump out of the boat for a chance to snorkel out above the coral reef.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Sabani Boat: Climb aboard a traditional wooden Sabani Boat. Local to Okinawa, we'll sail in this dugout-cedar boat and have a chance to snorkel in the blue water through colorful reefs.
- Snorkeling from the Sabani Boat: Jump out of the traditional Sabani boat with a snorkel mask and fins.. Glide above the tropical coral reefs and admire the colorful life below the sea. Your sabani boat guide will point out some of the amazing things you may see like puffer fish, sea stars or maybe even a sea turtle!
- Free Time: Spend your afternoon at leisure in the Ishigaki Port area.
The island hopping continues as you head west again towards Iriomote island. Spend the day kayaking in a mangrove area, spotting birds and local flora you can only find in this area. After an epic day exploring the island, choose to join your CEO and fellow travelers for a farewell dinner back in Ishigaki.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Iriomote Kayak: Glide through the Mangrove forest waterways in a kayak and learn about the importance of these amazing trees. You'll have the chance to observe the unique wildlife that the Mare and Hinai Rivers' ecosystem supports.
- Ferry: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Just off the coast of the Ishigaki Port area is Taketomi Island, part of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Surrounded by coral reef, the island is actually constructed of coral walls and structures, creating a unique architectural look within Japan. The central Ryukyu village is the most well known feature of the island, full of red tiled roof buildings and tropical flowers. There are plenty of ways to explore Taketomi, but in true G Adventures style we opt for a bicycle to be able to zip around and see as much as possible.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Ferry: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
- Taketomi Cycling: Hop on a bicycle and explore Taketomi's noteworthy stops. Starting at the Yugafu-kan cultural center, we'll then bike to Nishi Pier for a perfect view of the sea, to the white sands of Kondoi Beach for a swim and a snorkel, and to the traditional village of Taketomi. This tour will bring you to experience the picturesque beaches of the island and its well preserved history.
We bid farewell to the beautiful archipelago of Okinawa and return to Japan's mainland. After breakfast, we'll catch a flight to Tokyo. Arrive to the the hotel and enjoy a free evening in Tokyo.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Today you have the chance to see the biggest city in Japan on a tour with your CEO. See highlights of this amazing city like Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Asakusa neighbourhood, Nakamise shopping street and the historic Meiji Shrine. In the afternoon, spend your time in Tokyo how you'd like. Opt to visit cool neighborhoods like Akihabara or Harajuku. Or find some green space in the famous Ueno Park.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Sensō-ji Temple Visit: Explore Sensō-ji Temple, a colourful Buddhist temple and the oldest temple in the entire city. Leading up to the temple the street is lined with shops selling yummy food and great souvenirs.
- Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) Visit: Visit this shrine dedicated to the 123rd emperor of Japan, Emperor Meiji and his wife. The shrine is a great place to escape the bustle of the city and wander the grounds along the wide walking paths.
- Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon in Tokyo.
Optional Experiences
- Akihabara Visit: Tokyo's Akihabara district is a cultural centre and shopping district for video games, anime, manga, and electronics.
- Harajuku Visit: The Harajuku district is known as the centre of Japanese youth culture and fashion. Here, find dozens of shopping and dining options including independent boutiques and larger international luxury stores.
- Ueno Park Visit: As Japan's most popular city park, Ueno is known for its museums and cherry blossoms. Stroll the pathways, admire the thousands of trees, including approximately 800 Somei-yoshino cherry trees, look for lotus on the pond, or opt to visit the temples and museums (entrance fees).
Explore Experiences
Sensoji Buddhist Temple
Asakusa Kannon Temple
Depart at any time.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Trip Inclusions
- Experience a traditional Sabani boat excursion on the crystal clear water and colorful reefs of Okiniawa.
- Hike, Bike and kayak through different Okinawan islands.
- Explore Tokyo on a tour with your CEO and with free time.
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Kurama to Kibune trek & shrine visits
- Fushimi Inari Taisha hike
- Okinawa Rail Observation & Ibe-dake Forest Trail Trek
- Yasuda Sea Kayaking tour
- Sabani Boat experience
- Taketomi cycling excursion
- Mangrove kayak on Iriomote island
- internal flights
- Asakusa Sensō-ji Temple
- Nakamise shopping street visit
- Meiji Shrine visit
- Free time in Tokyo
- All transportation to/from included activities
- Plane, local train, walking, private vehicle, gondola, public bus, bicycle, local metro
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and local guides throughout
- Hotel (11nts)
- 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: Active
For travelers who prefer their adventures powered by motion - G's Active tours offer an immersive way to explore the world. Whether it’s hiking rugged trails, biking scenic routes, or kayaking along rivers and coastlines, all you'll need to bring is your energy, enthusiasm, and a love for active adventure. Our expert guides provide all the gear and logistical support needed so you can focus on the journey.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Friday
15 May 2026
15 May 26
Kyoto
Tuesday
26 May 2026
26 May 26
Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Friday
22 May 2026
22 May 26
Kyoto
Tuesday
02 Jun 2026
02 Jun 26
Tokyo
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,549
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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