Following breakfast, embark on a guided morning tour lasting around five hours, showcasing Tokyo’s dynamic blend of modernity and tradition. Capture photos of Tokyo Tower from Zojoji Temple, discover the 100 Jizo stone statues, and experience the hustle of Shibuya Crossing—arguably the busiest intersection worldwide. Visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine, stroll along Omotesando’s stylish boulevard, and admire the Imperial Palace grounds including the iconic Nijubashi Bridge. Explore Akihabara, the hub of manga and anime culture, and visit Kokugikan, the heart of sumo wrestling. Finally, explore Sensoji Temple and enjoy free time at Nakamise Shopping Street in Asakusa. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. The afternoon is yours to relax or further explore the city. Note: During the Olympic Games, accommodation may be near Narita Airport.

After breakfast, travel to the scenic Mount Fuji area. Your first stop is Arakurayama Sengen Park for stunning views of Fuji. Continue to Kawaguchiko, a picturesque town nestled by the lake, famous for its charming houses and natural beauty. Visit Fuji Sengen Shrine, a spiritual starting point for pilgrims. Enjoy a peaceful boat cruise on Lake Kawaguchiko before ascending to the Fuji Fifth Station for breathtaking mountain vistas at 2,305 meters altitude. Return to Kawaguchiko for a leisurely lakeside walk and an authentic stay at a traditional Ryokan, complete with relaxing onsen baths. Dinner is included.

Following breakfast, explore Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a quaint mountain village rebuilt as a cultural museum after a typhoon. Admire the picturesque Shiraito Falls nearby. Then head to Nagoya to visit the Toyota Museum, a must-see for car enthusiasts. Continue onward to Kyoto for an overnight stay.

Spend the day exploring Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital rich in history and tradition. Visit the serene Arashiyama area and cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Explore Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through its bamboo forest. Discover landmarks including Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), the Imperial Palace, and the famed Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates. In the evening, stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s traditional geisha district.

After breakfast, travel to Tsumago, a beautifully preserved rural town featuring historic wooden homes. Enjoy included lunch and free time to explore. Continue to Matsumoto to see the stunning 16th-century “Crow Castle.” Spend a free hour before heading to Nagano for an overnight stay.

Start the day at Zenko-ji Temple, home to Japan’s oldest Buddhist image. Experience the Gomakuyo ceremony for good fortune. Then visit Jigokudani Monkey Park in the Japanese Alps, where wild macaques bathe in natural hot springs (weather permitting). Next, visit Kusatsu, a charming onsen town, and witness the traditional Yumomi water-cooling performance. Continue to Ikaho, a historic hot spring village, where you’ll stay in a ryokan with traditional baths and enjoy a Japanese-style dinner. Note: The Monkey Park visit may be subject to seasonal changes; Yumomi show may be postponed during winter months.

Travel to Nikko, home to the ornate Toshogu Shrine, featuring the famous “Crying Dragon” carving. Visit Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum and stroll along the river lined with hundreds of Jizo statues. Enjoy some free time in Nikko’s city center before continuing to the vibrant city of Sendai for an overnight stay.

Explore Matsushima Bay, renowned for its scenic islands. Visit a tea house overlooking the sea for traditional tea, followed by a 50-minute boat cruise. Enjoy lunch before continuing to Hiraizumi to explore UNESCO-listed temples including Chusonji and Motsuiji, where you may participate in a Zen ceremony. Visit Takkoku no Iwaya, a rock-carved temple, before reaching Morioka for overnight stay.

Visit Hirosaki Castle and its famous cherry blossom park (seasonal). In Aomori, explore the Nebuta Museum, which celebrates vibrant local festivals. Enjoy lunch locally before boarding a ferry to Hokkaido Island. Upon arrival in Hakodate, ascend Mount Hakodate via cable car for stunning city views, then explore its charming pedestrian-friendly city center with diverse cultural influences.

Start with a visit to Hakodate’s lively fish market and the Goryokaku Tower for panoramic views of the star-shaped fortress. Stroll through the castle grounds before heading to Onuma Quasi-National Park, known for its scenic islands and boat trips. After lunch, explore Noboribetsu, famous for its volcanic activity and Jigokudani (“Hell Valley”). Finally, arrive in Sapporo for overnight stay.

Discover Sapporo’s highlights, including the historic Clock Tower, Odori Park, and Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, where you’ll participate in a traditional prayer ceremony. Lunch is included. Then visit the contemporary Hill of Buddha complex, followed by a trip to Otaru, a charming canal city with a European feel. Return to Sapporo in the late afternoon with free time to relax.

Journey through Hokkaido’s scenic interior to Toyako Onsen, a volcanic lakeside spa town. Visit the Volcanology Museum and ascend Mount Usu via cable car. Stop at the Ainu Village Museum in Shiraoi to learn about indigenous culture. Then board a modern ferry in Tomakomai for an overnight cruise to Sendai. Dinner and private cabin accommodations included.

Arrive at Sendai port and head to Yamadera, a stunning temple complex perched in the mountains. After exploring, enjoy lunch before visiting Yonezawa, a renowned sake-producing region, including a visit to a sake museum and distillery. Continue to Aizuwakamatsu for overnight stay.

Explore the Samurai Mansion in Aizuwakamatsu and stroll through the Castle Garden. Visit Iimoriyama Hill and learn about the local heroes commemorated there. Then visit Ouchi-juku, a picturesque village famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses. Finally, explore the Oya Stone Quarry Museum before returning to Tokyo, marking the end of your journey.