See Japan from every angle on a classic small-group adventure

Start with the energy of Tokyo

There's nowhere quite like Tokyo for a first introduction to Japan. The journey begins with two nights in the capital, giving you time to experience a city where the ultra-modern and traditional sit comfortably side by side. Explore buzzing neighbourhoods, discover quieter temples and gardens tucked between skyscrapers, and begin getting acquainted with Japan's exceptional food scene.

Staying in Asakusa also places you in one of Tokyo's most characterful areas, known for its traditional atmosphere and proximity to the historic Sensō-ji temple. And this isn't the last you'll see of the capital. The tour loops back to Tokyo for the final two nights, giving you another opportunity to explore once you've become more confident navigating Japan for yourself.

Discover Japan's cultural heart

If Tokyo represents Japan's modern energy, Kyoto offers a window into its history and traditions. With two nights in the city, there's time to experience the temples, historic districts, gardens, and traditional architecture that have made Kyoto one of Japan's most celebrated destinations. But the Classic Japan tour also gives you access to an experience that can be remarkably difficult to arrange independently: a private audience with a with a maiko (a trainee geisha from Kyoto), in Kyoto's historic Gion district. You'll have the opportunity to spend time with her over tea, ask questions with help from your Insider, enjoy traditional entertainment, and even join in some of the games associated with geisha culture.

What makes the experience particularly special is the relationship behind it. InsideJapan has spent 25 years building connections with Japanese teahouses, opening doors to an aspect of Kyoto's culture that many visitors only ever glimpse from afar. At a time when the city's maiko can attract considerable attention as they move between appointments, this offers a much more meaningful way to experience the tradition: in the appropriate setting, working with the geisha community, and with respect for both the performers and their craft. After Kyoto, you'll continue into the Japanese Alps to Takayama, where beautifully preserved streets and traditional wooden buildings create a very different atmosphere.

Why explore Japan on a small-group tour?

For many first-time visitors, planning a multi-stop journey through Japan can feel daunting but a small-group tour with InsideJapan takes care of much of the logistics. 

Travelling in a smaller group creates much more flexibility. There is plenty of free time built into the journey, giving you proper opportunities to head off independently, follow your own interests, and experience Japan at your own pace. In Osaka, for example, you can choose your own independent day trip, while elsewhere there are opportunities to break away from the group and explore.

And you're not simply left to figure things out alone. InsideJapan's Insiders live and work in Japan and are there to help you get more from that freedom. They can recommend how to spend your free time, help with the practicalities, and suggest alternatives based on what genuinely interests you, whether that's food, art, history, contemporary culture, or something more niche

Local transport at most destinations is included, alongside an IC transport card with 5,000-yen credit for city travel and a Hakone Free Pass for exploring the Hakone area.