Essential Japan

Uncover Japan's Cultural Treasures
On this immersive custom tour of Japan, uncover the cultural heart of this island nation. Journey from the highlights of Tokyo and Kyoto, with their Imperial castles and celebrated temples, to the quietude of Kanazawa’s gardens. Amid Hakone’s volcanic mountains, soak in the healing waters of a private onsen (hot spring). Benefitting from our decades of experience exploring the country, discover the Land of the Rising Sun in a new light.





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What to Expect
Discover Japan's singular cultural treasures with rare and immersive experiences: Take a private lesson with a taiko drummer, taste the delicacies of soba, sake, and kaiseki, experience the intricacies of a traditional tea ceremony, and join everyday life in under-the-radar neighborhoods.
Trip Highlights
- Experience modernity and tradition in Japan’s incomparable cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone, and Kanazawa
- Travel like a local, exploring by train, taxi, and subway when visiting key historic and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Exploring by gondola and boat, feast on iconic views of Mt. Fuji and Owakudani Crater
- Revel in numerous exclusive access visits: Private taiko drumming lesson, Zen Buddhist lunch, private geothermal onsen soak, and more
Upcoming Departures
- Custom Trips Offered Year-Round
Trip Pricing
- Custom Trip: From $17,500
Based on double occupancy
Inclusions
- All handpicked accommodations, ground transportation, and airport transfers
- All guided sightseeing, events, and experiences
- Top-tier local guides
- Most meals
- Most 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 Tokyo's Ancient Riches
Explore Tokyo, visiting the Meiji Shrine, Kusma Yayoi Museum, and Asakusa. Discover ancient taiko drumming with a private lesson and explore the Tsukiji Outer Market. Depart by train to Hakone.
Day 4 – 5Hakone's Natural Wonders
Walk the ancient pavers of Tokaido road, luxuriate in a private mountain hot spring, visit an artisan studio, and spot volcanic Mt. Fuji before continuing to Kanazawa.
I don't use the word “perfect” very often, but the way everything was handled could not have been better. Every activity was carefully thought out and appealed to young and old.





