
Legacy of Japan with Hokkaido & Osaka
Small groups lead to immersive discoveries on this Small Group Discovery tour through Japan’s vibrant cities and cultural heartlands. From the electric energy of Tokyo to the open skies of Hokkaido, begin your journey exploring ancient shrines, bustling temple districts, and the hidden worlds beneath the city on Tokyo’s remarkable metro system. Fly north to Sapporo, where wide boulevards and local flavors offer a refreshing contrast. Enjoy a meaningful encounter with the traditions of the Ainu, Japan’s Indigenous people, at Upopoy Cultural Park. Continue south to the peaceful mountain town of Tendo. Time-honored traditions come alive through sake brewing, hands-on soba-making, and a graceful maiko performance. Ride the sleek Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kanazawa, where tranquil gardens and artisan crafts reveal Japan’s refined elegance. Venture into the carving village of Inami to witness masters of woodwork and try the craft yourself. In Kyoto, golden temples and centuries-old statues embody the spiritual beauty of Japan. Continue to Osaka, where you will visit Osaka Castle and Minami, the city's most famous entertainment district, where the locals go for fun. From ancient traditions and artistic mastery to modern cityscapes and unforgettable flavors, this journey reveals the many layers of Japan in one extraordinary experience.
Tour Itinerary

Your Small Group Discovery tour begins! Welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s capital city. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.
Monumental Metropolis Hop on Tokyo’s subway system to explore this fascinating city on a guided sightseeing tour, featuring the Meiji Shrine, Asakusa Kannon Temple, and Nakamise Shopping Arcade. Tonight, join your travel companions at a welcome dinner hosted by your Tour Director. (B,L,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Tokyo’s metro stations are so extensive that many function as underground mini-cities with shops, restaurants, and passageways stretching for blocks beneath the streets. Exploring Tokyo by metro is a quintessential Japanese experience, and your Tour Director will guide you through the system and to the highlights of this dynamic city. Sightseeing begins with Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto shrine set within a man-made forest. Continue to Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Shopping Arcade, the oldest of their kind in Tokyo.
From City Lights to Northern Charm Today, transfer to the airport and fly to Sapporo, the vibrant capital of Hokkaido and gateway to Japan’s northern landscapes. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE Known for its wide boulevards, fresh seafood, and lively food culture, Sapporo offers a refreshing contrast to Tokyo. Use your free time to stroll through the city, perhaps visit Odori Park or sample the region’s famous miso ramen and local beer. Your Tour Director has all the tips and guidance to help you enjoy your free time.
Nature Meets Frontier Discover the charm of Hokkaido’s capital with guided sightseeing through Sapporo’s most iconic landmarks. Stroll through Odori Park, visit the Sapporo TV Tower, admire the historic Clock Tower and Former Hokkaido Government Office, and explore the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about Japan’s oldest beer brand. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT Views & Brews Sapporo offers a unique blend of open spaces, Western-influenced architecture, and rich local culture. Begin with a walk through Odori Park, the city’s green centerpiece stretching through downtown. Then, take in panoramic views from the Sapporo TV Tower, explore the elegant red-brick Former Hokkaido Government Office, and visit the historic Clock Tower, one of the city’s oldest surviving buildings. Conclude the day at the Sapporo Beer Museum, which celebrates a brewing tradition that dates back to the 19th century.
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