Journey Through Ancient Japan
Explore Japan's Ancient Capital and Shikoku
Uncover the hidden side of Japan on a small group journey through Shikoku Island and Kyoto. Begin in Kyoto’s centuries-old geisha district, wandering lantern-lit streets and tranquil temple gardens with expert guides. Continue into the remote Iya Valley, where mist-shrouded mountains shelter quiet villages few travelers ever reach. Along the way, stay in luxury ryokans, soak in soothing onsen, and enjoy an exclusive night in a 300-year-old farmhouse.
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What to Expect
Explore Japan’s coastal villages, where fishing nets dry in the breeze and boats bob in quiet harbors. Learn the art of hand-making soba noodles in a region where buckwheat replaces rice as the staple, and enjoy a freshly prepared feast. Walk through bamboo forests that lead to hidden mountain shrines, their moss-covered lanterns glowing with history. Each evening, gather for farm-to-table dinners in centuries-old courtyards, surrounded by the warmth of lantern light and local hospitality.
Trip Highlights
- Explore Shikoku’s remote Iya Valley, where vine bridges and mountain gorges reveal a wilder side of Japan
- Stay overnight in a 300-year-old farmhouse, a rare glimpse into the country’s preserved rural heritage
- Travel with expert guides who open doors to hidden gardens, temples, and tucked-away traditions
- Unwind in luxury ryokans and boutique inns that blend modern comfort with time-honored hospitality
Upcoming Departures
- March 9 – March 20, 2026Led by Don George(Waitlist only; please call)
- March 16 – March 27, 2026Led by Amy Loewen
- March 23 – April 3, 2026Led by Don George(Limited space; please call)
- April 6 – April 17, 2026Led by Don George(Limited space; please call)
Trip Pricing
- Group Trip: From $19,950
Based on double occupancy
Inclusions
- All handpicked accommodations, ground transportation, and airport transfers
- All guided sightseeing, events, and experiences
- Premier GeoEx Trip Leader and top-tier local guides
- Most meals
- Local sake and beer at included meals
- All gratuities
- Emergency evacuation services and secondary medical expense insurance
- Dedicated support from GeoEx’s travel experts and in-house air reservations team
Your Route Through Japan
Journey at a Glance
Day 1 – 3Explore Timeless Kyoto
Explore historically and culturally rich Kyoto with visits to gorgeous temples and a stroll along the cherry tree-lined Path of Philosophers.
Day 4Nara Explorations
Nara is known for its ancient temples and deer park, both of which you discover. Return to Kyoto for culinary-inspired wanderings.
Meet Your Guide
Don George
Don is an award-winning travel writer and editor, and a highly sought-after speaker and teacher. He's traveled widely in and written extensively about Japan, not to mention having lived there for two years. Don is currently editor at large for National Geographic Traveler, special features editor for BBC Travel, and editor of GeoEx’s blog, Wanderlust.
Amy Loewen
Amy is a teacher and lecturer who has previously lived in Japan teaching English language and in Hawai’i as a museum exhibit designer. She currently lectures on expedition ships all over Japan and spends every summer as a faculty member at the International University of Japan.
Our leader Amy is an excellent and joyful addition to the tour. She gave me Japanese lessons and we had a wonderful time learning from her. I would travel with her anytime.
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