JAPAN Inspiration Gallery 11

Luxury Tours of Japan: Discover Heritage, Innovation & Natural Beauty

Japan is a destination like no other: rich in extraordinary heritage sites, fascinating idiosyncrasies and exquisite beauty – you are bound to fall under its otherworldly spell. Join us on an escorted luxury tour of Japan to explore this extraordinary country, where time-honoured traditions meet futuristic advancements, all while showcasing exceptional natural beauty and unique cultural nuances.

Experience Japan’s captivating blend of old and new as you journey through its iconic cities and tranquil countryside. Marvel at Kyoto’s geisha in delicate kimonos, stroll through its famous zen gardens, and immerse yourself in Kanazawa’s traditional crafts. Enjoy a bento lunchbox on a lightning-fast 300 km/h bullet train while taking in the precision of the country’s public transport system. Whether you’re marvelling at the serenity of ancient temples or exploring bustling modern districts, Japan’s multifaceted charm will leave you spellbound.

Take time to discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Japan through our curated private tours. Visit renowned hot spring onsen and wander through serene temples and shrines that dot the countryside. Escape the urban rush with day trips to historic Nikko, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, or the art-filled district of Hakone, known for its museums and views of Mount Fuji. City parks like Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen and Kyoto’s moss gardens offer tranquil green spaces that blend Japanese and European influences, providing the perfect break from sightseeing.

Food lovers will find themselves in paradise as they taste their way through Japan. While some believe Japanese holidays can be costly, local guides can point you to delicious, affordable meals like a hearty bowl of ramen or street-side sushi for just a few hundred yen. No need to worry about tipping, as this is not customary in Japan. For those seeking luxury, Japan is home to a multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants serving both global and traditional cuisine. Experience the exquisite kaiseki feasts at a traditional ryokan or indulge in world-class dining at exclusive venues. Staying in a luxury hotel or traditional ryokan is a must, offering unmatched hospitality that will make you feel like royalty. Some ryokans preserve the traditional Japanese aesthetic with bamboo-mat floors, sliding screen doors, and beautifully landscaped gardens, while others, like Amanemu, offer modern interpretations of classic design.

For those looking to explore beyond the well-trodden routes, Japan’s mountains and remote regions offer unique experiences. Head off the bullet train tracks and discover the scenic beauty of Honshu’s mountain range at your own pace. In Hokkaido, the northernmost island, enjoy world-class skiing on Annupuri mountain at Niseko Resort, or embark on an exhilarating hike in Daisetsuzan National Park. Families can enjoy snow-shoeing and ice-walking in Hokkaido’s remote eastern peninsula. South of Honshu, Kyushu boasts volcanic landscapes and the charming city of Nagasaki, known as Japan’s San Francisco. On Shikoku, Japan’s smallest main island, uncover hidden valleys, ancient temples and soothing hot spring towns. For a relaxing beach retreat, the tropical Okinawa islands offer some of the finest sand and surf in Asia.

A luxury holiday to Japan is truly unforgettable when timed with the country’s most celebrated seasons. Cherry blossom (sakura) season tends to bloom in southern Japan from the end of March, and transforms the landscape into a sea of pink and white petals. The often-overlooked autumn season brings vivid hues of orange, red and gold, setting the country ablaze with colour and beauty. No matter when you visit, you can expect warm welcomes and genuine hospitality, from humble guesthouses to luxury hotels and top-tier restaurants. While Japan’s multifaceted allure may seem daunting, its meticulous order and our expert travel guides ensure your trip will be both smooth and enriching.

Japan is a country that defies expectations with its remarkable diversity. Whether you’re seeking a cultural, culinary, or outdoor adventure, our expert travel guides are ready to help you plan a tailor-made holiday to Japan that will create memories to last a lifetime.


Our suggested tours in Japan

A Perfect Introduction to Japan

Kyoto Japan 25

14 days from £8,640 for 2025

Japan is a varied and culturally rich country which rewards repeat visits. First-timers can cover a lot of ground culturally...

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A Comprehensive Tour of Japan

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17 days from £10,200 for 2025

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Mount Koya, this comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled exploration...

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Autumn Leaves in Japan

Nikko, Japan 1.jpg

16 days from £13,500 for 2025

The Japan Alps can be explored at any time of year but are perhaps at their most beautiful in autumn...

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Japan’s Ultimate Art & Architecture Tour

Japan James Jayasundera Ampersand Travel 52

16 days from £13,850 for 2025

Japan has a rich and diverse art scene, blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge contemporary works. This itinerary takes in some of the...

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Driving Through Japan: Effortless Exploration

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15 days from £9,280 for 2025

Renting a car in Japan is an easy and enjoyable experience, with well-maintained roads, clear signage and English-friendly GPS systems,...

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Japan’s Ultimate Island Hopping Tour

Okinawa Japan 6

12 days from £10,130 for 2025

A 12-night adventure covering Japan’s most stunning and culturally rich islands. This itinerary combines luxury, history, nature and off-the-beaten-path experiences...

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Seeking Ancient Japan: Follow in the footsteps of Stanley Stewart

Izu Japan 3

11 days from £10,626 for 2025

Seek ancient Japan on the Izu Peninsula – a land of hot-springs, towering peaks, empty coastal headlands and 400 year-old...

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The Length of the Bullet Train Line in Japan

Length Of The Bullet Train Line 16

19 days from £14,900 for 2025

With two recent extensions to Aomori in the north and Kagoshima to the south, the bullet train line now runs...

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Ultimate Luxury Tour of Japan

Best Of The Best In Japan 9

12 days from £10,900 for 2025

Japan has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, and it has a number of super-luxe accommodation options to match....

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Following the Cherry Blossom through Japan

Following The Cherry Blossom Through Japan 11

14 days from £13,600 for 2025

It’s not an exact science, but the famous cherry blossom trees tend to bloom around the end of March on...

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Gardens, Architecture and Customs of Japan

Gardens Architecture And Customs Of Japan 1

14 days from £9,610 for 2025

From the Imperial Palace gardens to the zen-inspired grounds of ancient temples, Japan is an ideal destination for lovers of...

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Japan’s Coasts and Countryside

Cities Coasts And Countryside

15 days from £11,900 for 2025

The great bustling cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima are rich with the history and culture of Japan, from its...

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Family Adventure in Japan

Family Adventure In Japan 2

13 days from £9,490 for 2025

Japan offers endless fun for big kids and little kids alike. This itinerary encapsulates all that is weird and wonderful...

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Sake, Snow, Shrines, Sand and Sushi

Sake Snow Shrines Sand And Sushi 13

16 days from £11,100 for 2025

Japan has world class ski resorts as well as beaches to rival the best in Bali. So why not combine...

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Some of our favourite hotels in Japan

The Peninsula Tokyo ,
Tokyo

Peninsula Tokyo Japan 5

With just eleven hotels worldwide, the Peninsula brand stands out as a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, rivalling much larger...

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Aman Tokyo ,
Tokyo

Aman Tokyo Tokyo Japan Ampersand Travel Resized 48

  Aman Tokyo is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Lux City Hotels and Top 10 Aman Resorts in Asia. It also has one...

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Iwaso Ryokan ,
Hiroshima and Miyajima

Iwaso Miyajima Japan 6

  Iwaso is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Luxury Ryokans. Nestled in the serene Miyajima shrine area, Iwaso Ryokan offers an exceptional...

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Gora Kadan ,
Hakone

Gora Kadan Hakone Japan 2

  Gora Kadan is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Luxury Ryokans and Top 10 Hotel Spas. Gora Kadan is one of Japan’s finest ryokans, offering an...

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Park Hyatt Tokyo ,
Tokyo

Park Hyatt Tokyo Japan 4

Famous for its iconic role in the film Lost in Translation, the Park Hyatt Tokyo remains a favourite among sophisticated...

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Some of our favourite places of interest in Japan

Kanazawa

Kanazawa Japan 2

Kanazawa is often overlooked by first-time travellers to Japan, yet this city is home to a wonderful mixture of both...

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Kinosaki

m_180329 Kinosaki in winter.jpg

If we had to pick one hot spring town from the dozens throughout Japan, it would be Kinosaki. This little...

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Nasu

Nasu Japan (1).jpg

The Nasu highlands are part of a 2000m high mountain plateau that centres on volcanic Nasudake, with well-loved hot spring...

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Noto Peninsula

Noto Japan 3

If you want to get well off the beaten track, the Noto Peninsula is for you. Along the 200km coastal...

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Kumamoto

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Towards the end of the bullet train track in Kyushu sits Kumamoto. You may recognise this city's name as it is...

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Nikko

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Just north from Tokyo, Nikko makes for an ideal day trip away from bustling city-life and is well-known for its...

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Related Blog Posts

Read some of our hand-picked blog posts for Japan


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