13-Day Japan Winter Discovery Small Group Tour

Discover the magic of Japan in winter on this immersive 13-day small-group journey, showcasing the country’s culture, landscapes and seasonal beauty. Beginning in Tokyo, travellers explore iconic sights including historic temples, bustling markets and the famous Shibuya district before venturing to the relaxing hot-spring town of Kusatsu for a traditional onsen experience. The journey continues through the Japanese Alps to Nagano to see the famous snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs, then on to the historic cities of Kanazawa and Takayama, where preserved old towns, traditional tea ceremonies and regional cuisine offer a deeper insight into Japanese culture. The tour also visits the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go before finishing in Kyoto, where travellers can wander through atmospheric streets, geisha districts and ancient temples. With a small group, comfortable accommodation including a traditional ryokan stay, guided sightseeing and authentic cultural experiences, this winter journey offers a unique and memorable way to explore Japan.

Inclusions:

Small, intimate group experience – no more than 24 people
11 nights in 3 and 4 star accommodation
1 night in a traditional Ryokan
Breakfast Daily, 3 lunches and 4 dinners
Private transportation throughout
Fully escorted with dedicated English speaking trip leader
In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary

Pricing:

From $5495.00 per person ( based on twin share )

Itinerary

13-Day Japan Winter Highlights Tour

Day 1 – Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to your hotel. Rest and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 2 – Tokyo

City sightseeing including the Metropolitan Government Building, Sensoji Temple, and Shibuya. Group welcome dinner.

Day 3 – Tokyo

Morning visit to Tsukiji Outer Market. Afternoon and evening free to explore Tokyo independently.

Day 4 – Tokyo → Kusatsu Onsen

Travel to Kusatsu via Kawagoe Castle. Experience the famous Yumomi ritual, stroll around Yubatake, and enjoy an overnight stay at a traditional onsen ryokan.

Day 5 – Kusatsu Onsen → Nagano

Visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to see the monkeys bathing in hot springs. Continue to Nagano for a relaxed afternoon.

Day 6 – Nagano → Kanazawa

Travel to Kanazawa. Visit Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle. Evening at leisure.

Day 7 – Kanazawa

Experience a traditional tea ceremony in Higashi Chaya District. Remainder of the day free to explore Kanazawa.

Day 8 – Kanazawa → Shirakawa-go → Takayama

Visit Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage village. Continue to Takayama with a ride on the Shinhotaka Ropeway.

Day 9 – Takayama

Explore Takayama’s historic old town, visit a sake brewery, and enjoy a Hida beef lunch. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 10 – Takayama → Kyoto

Morning visit to Takayama Market, then travel to Kyoto. Guided walk through the Gion District.

Day 11 – Kyoto

Visit the mountain village of Kibune with a traditional hot pot lunch. Afternoon free for sightseeing.

Day 12 – Kyoto

Free day to explore Kyoto’s temples, shrines, markets, and historic districts. Farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 13 – Kyoto → Osaka

Tour concludes. Transfer to Osaka airport or continue onward travel.

Terms and conditions:

Cooling Off Period

A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product. Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.

Please contact Cruise Offers for full terms and conditions.

13 Day Japan Winter Discovery Small Group Tour