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Japan’s Ultimate Island Hopping Tour

12 days from £10,130 for 2025 per person

This ultimate island hopping tour is a 12-night odyssey through Japan’s most breathtaking and diverse landscapes, seamlessly blending luxury, adventure and culture. From the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the misty forests of Yakushima and the sun-drenched shores of Okinawa, this carefully curated journey offers a rare opportunity to experience Japan’s rich diversity, with each destination offering its own unique charm. Explore the nation’s artistic heritage, natural beauty and traditional spirit, all while indulging in the finest accommodations and experiences at every stop, this tour is a true celebration of Japan’s essence, where untouched nature meets luxury and culture intertwines with adventure.

Begin your journey in Japan’s dazzling capital, Tokyo, where Aman Tokyo offers a serene oasis above the city’s fast-paced energy. Overlooking the skyline, this ultra-luxury hotel is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese design and contemporary elegance. Enjoy Tokyo at your own pace, from vibrant neighbourhoods like Shibuya and Shinjuku to tranquil parks and temples, all within reach from your hotel.

Next, head to Naoshima, Japan’s art island. Nestled among rolling hills with views of the Seto Inland Sea, the stylish Benesse House is part of the Benesse Art Site Naoshima, offering direct access to some of the world’s most renowned art installations. Spend your days immersed in the unique art museums, including the Chichu Art Museum and the iconic Yayoi Kusama pumpkin, and explore Tadao Ando’s architectural wonders. Take a short ferry ride to Shodoshima, the Mediterranean of Japan, for a day exploring the charm of olive groves, coastal vistas and cultural history.

From Naoshima, fly to Yakushima, an island of mist and ancient cedar trees. Spend your days hiking through the ancient forests, home to Jomon Sugi, one of the world’s oldest and most revered cedar trees. The experience of being surrounded by these towering, timeless giants feels almost spiritual. From here, fly to the southern paradise of Okinawa for two nights at The Ritz-Carlton. This stunning resort, perched along the coast, offers the perfect blend of luxury and island relaxation. Spend your days lounging by the pool, strolling along pristine beaches, or indulging in the spa. Okinawa’s history and culture are also right at your doorstep, from the Shurijo Castle to traditional Okinawan cuisine and dance performances.

The final leg of your journey will take you to Taketomi Island and a stay at Hoshinoya Taketomi, a serene retreat where the pace of life slows and time feels like it stands still. Visit traditional Ryukyu-style houses with thatched roofs, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, explore the island’s narrow streets lined with traditional coral walls, or spend your days on white sand beaches, relaxing in the ultimate tranquility. This is a place where you can immerse yourself in Okinawa’s unique culture and heritage, from the picturesque villages to the untouched beaches and calm, turquoise seas.


Itinerary details

12 days from £10,130 for 2025 per person

  • Day 1 - Aman Tokyo - Tokyo
    Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to your hotel. Evening cocktail at the rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline
  • Day 2 - Aman Tokyo - Tokyo
    Day at leisure to explore Tokyo.
  • Day 3 - Benesse House - Naoshima
    Morning shinkansen to Okayama, then ferry to Naoshima. Afternoon at leisure and sunset dinner with Seto Inland Sea views.
  • Day 4 - Benesse House - Naoshima
    Spend the day exploring Chichu Art Museum, Yayoi Kusama’s Pumpkin and Tadao Ando’s architectural wonders.
  • Day 5 - Benesse House - Naoshima
    Day trip to Shodoshima by ferry. Island highlights include Olive Park, the Olive Museum and scenic spots like Kankakei Gorge.
  • Day 6 - Sankara - Yakushima
    Morning fly to Yakushima. Afternoon at leisure.
  • Day 7 - Sankara - Yakushima
    Private guided hike to Jomon Sugi, one of the world’s oldest cedar trees.
  • Day 8 - The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa - Okinawa
    Flight to Okinawa and private transfer to Ritz Carlton Okinawa.
  • Day 9 - The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa - Okinawa
    Day at leisure.
  • Day 10 - Hoshinoya Taketomi - Yaeyama Islands
    Morning transfer to Hoshinoya Taketomi. Spend the rest of day at leisure.
  • Day 11 - Hoshinoya Taketomi - Yaeyama Islands
    Explore Taketomi Island, known for its traditional Ryukyu villages and pristine beaches.
  • Day 12 - In transit.
    International flight home via Naha or Tokyo.
Ritz Carlton Okinawa Japan 9
Ritz Carlton Okinawa Japan 3
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Yaeyama Islands Japan
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Hoshinoya Taketomi Yaeyama Islands Japan 4
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Okinawa Japan 6
Aman Tokyo Japan 18
AMAN TOKYO Tokyo Japan Ampersand Travel 46
AMAN TOKYO Tokyo Japan Ampersand Travel 30
RS1165 Aman Tokyo Lobby Lounge Hpr (1)
JAPAN Naoshima Japan 26
Naoshima Japan 20
Naoshima Japan 7
Okinawa Japan 6
Aman Tokyo Japan 18
AMAN TOKYO Tokyo Japan Ampersand Travel 46
AMAN TOKYO Tokyo Japan Ampersand Travel 30
RS1165 Aman Tokyo Lobby Lounge Hpr (1)
JAPAN Naoshima Japan 26
Naoshima Japan 20
Naoshima Japan 7
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Okinawa Japan 8
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Ritz Carlton Okinawa Japan 14
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Yaeyama Islands Japan
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Hoshinoya Taketomi Yaeyama Islands Japan 4
Yaeyama Islands Japan 4
The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.
Rudyard Kipling

Client Testimonials

Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India

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