Book Confidently with our Flexible Booking Policy. LEARN MORE
Book Confidently with our Flexible Booking Policy.

LEARN MORE

JAPAN and more
  • Japan Tours
  • Services
  • CONTACT
  • Click to open the search input field Click to open the search input field Search
  • Menu Menu

Explore Japan Tour

Home > Japan Tours > Explore Japan Tour
List List Menu
  • Discover
  • Explore
  • Highlights
  • Intro
  • Private
  • How It Works
  • FAQ
  • Testimonials
  • Book It!

11 nights, 12 days

Small Group Tour

This fully escorted 12-day Explore Japan Tour is perfect if you want to see the beauty of Japan and experience its unique culture.

Becki & Shawn travel with you to visit the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara, explore the beautiful island of Miyajima, hike the historic Nakasendo Trail, and enjoy the enchantments of a Geisha Performance with a Kaiseki dinner.

IS THIS TOUR RIGHT FOR ME?

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Down-open-big Down-open-big
  • 12 Days Fully Escorted – Becki & Shawn are there to help anytime you need it
  • Very Small Groups: 8 people or less – half the size of most small group tours!
  • 11 Nights Accommodations in central locations
  • Breakfast each morning and 4 evening meals
  • All Entrance Fees for the listed attractions
  • All Land Transportation including bullet trains
  • Personal Support: pre-departure advice and helpful tips
Becki & Shawn in Nara, Japan
Becki and Shawn

Join Us For An Adventure Of A Lifetime

On this trip you get the feel of independent travel without having to worry about the language, transportation, hotels, or reservations.

Our 20+ years of Japan travel brings you personal insights and special encounters you’ll never forget. You’ll travel in a small group, eat at local restaurants, ride public transportation, and enjoy a flexible schedule.

We take care of transportation and scheduling, so all you need to do is soak up the culture and enjoy your adventure of a lifetime.

DATES & PRICES

Our tours book fast! There is limited availability, so it’s best to secure your place as soon as possible.

Down-open-big Down-open-big
Spring 2026

Start Date Features Price Details Status
Start Date: March 18, 2026 Features: Early Cherry Blossoms Price: $7248 Closed
Start Date: April 15, 2026 Features: Late Cherry Blossoms Price: $7498 Closed
Start Date: May 6, 2026 Features: Sumo Tournament Price: $7248 Closed
Start Date: May 20, 2026 Features: Low Season Price: $6948 Closed
Fall 2026

Start Date Features Price Details Status
Start Date: September 16, 2026 Features: Sumo Tournament Price: $6948 Closed
Start Date: September 30, 2026 Features: Autumn Festival Price: $6948 Details: Waiting List
Book It!
Start Date: October 21, 2026 Features: Early Fall Colors Price: $6948 Closed
Start Date: November 11, 2026 Features: Fall Colors Price: $6948 Closed
Spring 2027

Start Date Features Price Details Status
Start Date: March 17, 2027 Features: Early Cherry Blossoms Price: $7498 Closed
Start Date: April 14, 2027 Features: Late Cherry Blossoms Price: $7748 Closed
Start Date: May 5, 2027 Features: Sumo Tournament Price: $7498 Closed
Start Date: May 19, 2027 Features: Low Season Price: $7248 Closed
Fall 2027

Start Date Features Price Details Status
Start Date: September 15, 2027 Features: Sumo Tournament Price: $7248 Closed
Start Date: September 29, 2027 Features: Autumn Festival Price: $7248 Closed
Start Date: October 20, 2027 Features: Early Fall Colors Price: $7248 Closed
Start Date: November 24, 2027 Features: Best Fall Colors Price: $7498 Details: 2 Spots Left
Book It!

Prices are per person based on double occupancy

Any scheduled tour can be made private. Your group, your dates.   GO PRIVATE

Sample Itinerary

Our itineraries are flexible and can be modified according to the preferences of the group.

Down-open-big Down-open-big

Day 0: Departure from Your Country

Fly to Tokyo Narita Airport.

Explore Cultural Heritage Tour Spring 2021

Sample Itinerary

Our itineraries are flexible and can be modified according to the preferences of the group.

Down-open-big Down-open-big
Explore Cultural Heritage Tour Spring 2021

Day 0: Departure from Your Country

Fly to Tokyo Narita Airport.

Day 1: Airport to Tokyo

Arrive in Japan. Becki or Shawn will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel.

See the famous Shibuya Crosswalk and experience the sights and sounds of Tokyo.

Day 1: Airport to Tokyo

Arrive in Japan. Becki or Shawn will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel.

See the famous Shibuya Crosswalk and experience the sights and sounds of Tokyo.

Day 2: Tokyo

In the morning, visit Asakusa to explore Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple built in 645 AD.

Then, enjoy a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional washoku cuisine.

In the evening, we will enjoy a fun Included Yokoso (Welcome) Dinner at a Japanese Izakaya.

Day 2: Tokyo

In the morning, visit Asakusa to explore Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple built in 645 AD.

Then, enjoy a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional washoku cuisine.

In the evening, we will enjoy a fun Included Yokoso (Welcome) Dinner at a Japanese Izakaya.

Peter Testimonial Thumbnail

“Becki and Shawn really go beyond providing a ‘tour’, and allowed us insights into another culture we likely would never have experienced if we were simply ‘tourists’.”

Peter - Charlotte, NC

Day 3: Mount Fuji

Today, we will travel to Lake Kawaguchi to view the magnificence of Mount Fuji – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We will stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan and have an authentic Japanese kaiseki dinner. This will be a very memorable experience!

Dinner Included at Ryokan hotel.

Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji

Day 3: Mount Fuji

Today, we will travel to Lake Kawaguchi to view the magnificence of Mount Fuji – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We will stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan and have an authentic Japanese kaiseki dinner. This will be a very memorable experience!

Dinner Included at Ryokan hotel.

Day 4: Inuyama Castle

Today we will ride the Japanese bullet train, or Shinkansen, one of the three fastest trains in the world.

Visit the 480 year old Inuyama Castle, one of only 12 original castles in Japan and a designated National Treasure.

Inuyama Castle
Inuyama Castle

Day 4: Inuyama Castle

Today we will ride the Japanese bullet train, or Shinkansen, one of the three fastest trains in the world.

Visit the 480 year old Inuyama Castle, one of only 12 original castles in Japan and a designated National Treasure.

“You made every one of us feel like a special guest (and friend). Can’t thank you enough.”

Joy & Mark – Cincinnati, OH

Day 5: Kiso Valley

Slip back to an earlier time and enjoy the beautifully preserved post towns of Magome and Tsumago in the Kiso Valley.

These towns used to serve travelers as they journeyed between Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo Period.

Hike a section of the Nakasendo Trail and experience the countryside of Japan with bamboo forests, rice terraces, and waterfalls.

The Nakasendo Trail
The Nakasendo Trail

Day 5: Kiso Valley

Slip back to an earlier time and enjoy the beautifully preserved post towns of Magome and Tsumago in the Kiso Valley.

These towns used to serve travelers as they journeyed between Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo Period.

Hike a section of the Nakasendo Trail and experience the countryside of Japan with bamboo forests, rice terraces, and waterfalls.

Day 6: Hiroshima

Today we will travel to Hiroshima, the City of Peace. We’ll ride Hiroshima’s streetcars, see the Atomic Bomb Dome, and visit the Peace Memorial Park and museum.

This is a good chance to try Hiroshima Okonomiyaki!

Atomic Bomb Dome - Hiroshima, Japan
Atomic Bomb Dome - Hiroshima, Japan

Day 6: Hiroshima

Today we will travel to Hiroshima, the City of Peace. We’ll ride Hiroshima’s streetcars, see the Atomic Bomb Dome, and visit the Peace Memorial Park and museum.

This is a good chance to try Hiroshima Okonomiyaki!

“A cultural kaleidoscope enjoyed all the more by Becki and Shawn’s great organizational skills and their lovely company. Thank you so much for a really epic trip.”

Peggy & Tony – Ringwood, UK

Day 7: Miyajima

This morning we’ll catch a ferry to Miyajima where we will have the opportunity to see the world famous floating torii gate.

We will leisurely stroll the streets and paths of Miyajima and visit the World Heritage Site of Itsukushima Shrine.

Hiroshima Japan Travel
Hiroshima Japan Travel

Day 7: Miyajima

This morning we’ll catch a ferry to Miyajima where we will have the opportunity to see the world famous floating torii gate.

We will leisurely stroll the streets and paths of Miyajima and visit the World Heritage Site of Itsukushima Shrine.

Day 8: Kyoto

Walk up to Kiyomizu Temple, stopping along the way at the many souvenir shops on both sides of the street. At the top, the temple offers stunning views of the city.

Explore the Higashiyama District, enjoy an authentic tea ceremony, and visit the geisha district of Gion.

Included Kaiseki Dinner with geisha entertainment.

Hokanji Black Pagoda
Hokanji Black Pagoda

Day 8: Kyoto

Walk up to Kiyomizu Temple, stopping along the way at the many souvenir shops on both sides of the street. At the top, the temple offers stunning views of the city.

Explore the Higashiyama District, enjoy an authentic tea ceremony, and visit the geisha district of Gion.

Included Kaiseki Dinner with geisha entertainment.

Anita and Adam

“Every detail seemed to have been taken care of. Most importantly they truly listen to your requests and they work really hard to fulfill them. We had so much fun. A trip to brag about forever.”

Anita & Adam - Denver, CO

Day 9: Kyoto

In the morning, visit the Kyoto Shibori Museum and learn the ancient techniques of dying silk fabrics. Then experience making your very own souvenir Shibori silk scarf from a Shibori Master.

Then, visit the beautiful World Heritage Sites and Zen gardens of Kinkaku-ji and Ryoanji.

Kinkakuji Temple - Kyoto, Japan
Kinkakuji Temple - Kyoto, Japan

Day 9: Kyoto

In the morning, visit the Kyoto Shibori Museum and learn the ancient techniques of dying silk fabrics. Then experience making your very own souvenir Shibori silk scarf from a Shibori Master.

Then, visit the beautiful World Heritage Sites and Zen gardens of Kinkaku-ji and Ryoanji.

Day 10: Nara

Take a day trip to Nara and visit Nara Park, home to the World Heritage Sites of Todai-ji, Kasuga Shrine, and lots of wild deer!

Todai-ji Temple is the largest wooden structure and houses the largest bronze Buddha in the world!

Nara Todaiji Temple
Nara Todaiji Temple

Day 10: Nara

Take a day trip to Nara and visit Nara Park, home to the World Heritage Sites of Todai-ji, Kasuga Shrine, and lots of wild deer!

Todai-ji Temple is the largest wooden structure and houses the largest bronze Buddha in the world!

John and Karen

“Going on this tour was like spending time with old friends, even though we only met Becki and Shawn a week ago. Thank you for an authentic expat experience.”

John & Karen - Chicago, IL

Day 11: Tokyo National Museum

Today, we will visit the Tokyo National Museum, the oldest national museum in Japan with over 110,000 items including 87 Japanese National Treasures.

Enjoy a free afternoon to explore other sights and catch up on last minute shopping.

In the evening, we will conclude the trip with a memorable Included Sayonara (Farewell) Dinner.

Tokyo National Museum - Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo National Museum - Tokyo, Japan

Day 11: Tokyo National Museum

Today, we will visit the Tokyo National Museum, the oldest national museum in Japan with over 110,000 items including 87 Japanese National Treasures.

Enjoy a free afternoon to explore other sights and catch up on last minute shopping.

In the evening, we will conclude the trip with a memorable Included Sayonara (Farewell) Dinner.

Day 12: Tokyo to Airport

After breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and head to Narita Airport.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have free time for sightseeing or shopping. Sayonara!

Becki and Shawn at an Izakaya Restaurant 2010
See Dates & Prices

Questions?

Becki and Shawn at an Izakaya Restaurant 2010

Day 12: Tokyo to Airport

After breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and head to Narita Airport.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have free time for sightseeing or shopping. Sayonara!

See Dates & Prices

Questions?

Becki & Shawn in Nara, Japan
Becki and Shawn

YOUR JAPAN SPECIALISTS

Becki and Shawn are Japan Travel Specialists with two decades of experience living, working and traveling in Japan. They’ve lived in Nagoya, Hamamatsu, Wakayama, Kitakyushu, and Shizuoka and worked at universities and private companies across Japan.

They both hold an M.A. in International Studies. Becki is a certified Japanese tea instructor and has passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test.

OUR DIFFERENCE

Down-open-big Down-open-big

With Japan and More, you deal directly with the owners, Becki and Shawn, from the time you register for your tour until the day you depart Japan​. ​

They are Americans who know Japan, understand Japanese culture, and speak the language. They take care of every detail from knowing the best hotels, the quickest and easiest way to get around, and where to go off the beaten path.​ You will explore Japan in small groups, dine at family-run​ restaurants, and enjoy a flexible itinerary.

If you really want to experience Japan, then this is the tour for you!

Reserve Your Place on this Tour

Contact us toll free at 1-800-572-8123 or Click here to email us.

Contact Becki & Shawn

Start planning your adventure of a lifetime!

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Newsletter
Will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Let’s Talk!

Call today 1-800-572-8123

TESTIMONIALS

©JAPANandmore.com

“I don’t think we could have experienced this country in any better way. Both of you were wonderful guides. You were knowledgeable, relaxed, and engaging.”

Phil & Janice
Newark, NJ
Read more
©JAPANandmore.com

“Very professional and caring of every detail. It felt like you both were really showing us around your hometown in Japan.”

Chris & Anne
Sydney, Australia
Read more
©JAPANandmore.com

“It was like traveling with old, trusted friends. We could not have done it without you.”

Jim & Kathy
Austin, TX
Read more

SEE MORE TOURS

Cherry Blossoms in Gion - Kyoto, Japan
Discover Japan Tour
14 Nights / 15 Days
See Details
Matsumoto Castle on a Sunny Day
Highlights of Japan Tour
9 Nights / 10 Days
See Details
Yakitori Alley
Intro to Japan Tour
7 Nights / 8 Days
See Details
See our TripAdvisor Reviews See our Google Reviews See our Facebook Reviews

Becki & Shawn in Nara, Japan

Becki and Shawn
Japan Travel Specialists

Hi, we’re Becki and Shawn! We love Japan and are truly passionate about Japan and Japan travel.

We’ve lived, worked, and traveled in Japan for 20+ years, so we know where to go, what to see, and how to get there. Join us in Japan for an adventure of a lifetime!

Accreditations

Japan Travel Specialist Advanced Certificate
ARC Verified Travel Consultant Certification
State of California Seller of Travel Certificate of Registration
JATA Membership Certification

SERVICES

  • Japan Tours
  • Services
  • About
  • Contact
  • Partners

JAPAN INFO

  • Destinations
  • Experiences
  • Travel Tips
  • Blog

Reviews & Recommendations

See our TripAdvisor Reviews
See our Google Reviews
See our Facebook Reviews
Copyright - © 2016 - 2026,  JAPAN and more  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclosure  |  Website Services by Weldon Websites
  • Link to Facebook
  • Link to X
  • Link to Instagram
  • Link to Youtube
  • Link to LinkedIn
  • Link to Mail
Scroll to top Scroll to top Scroll to top

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

AcceptSettings

Cookie and Privacy Settings



How we use cookies

We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

Essential Website Cookies

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

Other external services

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings:

Google Map Settings:

Google reCaptcha Settings:

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

Privacy Policy

You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.

Privacy Policy
Accept