Japan Winter Explorer

Welcome to Tokyo! Once you arrive, make your own way to our hostel, take some time to unwind and get settled before we head out in the evening. Tonight, join the rest of the group to enjoy some delectable Japanese cuisine. After dinner, as the crowds thin out, we will visit the stunning Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo under the night sky.

Please note: This tour stays in a mixture of hotels and hostels and is designed for younger travellers looking for a backpacker-style experience and to meet like-minded people. The average age on this tour is around 21 - 35, and we are unfortunately unable to take any travellers over the age of 45. We have lots of group tours across our destinations that are suitable for travellers of all ages, browse our website or get in touch to find the perfect trip!

We'll start the morning with a Japan orientation, where you'll learn basic Japanese customs and phrases to help you navigate throughout the country. Following that, we'll visit Harajuku, known as the birthplace of Japanese teen pop culture, and explore its lively atmosphere. Next, we'll head to Yoyogi Park, home to the beautiful Meiji Shrine. Later, we'll make our way to Akihabara, famed as Tokyo's electric town, where you'll be dazzled by the neon lights and unique shops. You can compete in the arcades, visit the renowned Maid Cafes, or simply wander around the area.

In the morning, following breakfast, we will participate in a private sushi-making class. During this session, you'll learn how to prepare Miso soup, three varieties of sushi, and uncover the secrets of Teriyaki. If you'd like a vegetarian option, please inform us at least a week before the tour begins. In the evening, we'll head to Shinjuku, where you'll have the chance to admire Tokyo's stunning skyline, explore the renowned Omoide Yokocho alley, and enjoy dinner before experiencing the famous Shibuya Pedestrian Crossing.

Tokyo - Hakone. Today, we will journey to the picturesque mountain town of Hakone aboard the "Romance Car." Upon checking into our guest house nestled in the mountains, we'll spend the day exploring the surroundings using various modes of transportation. Hakone is renowned not only for its incredible cuisine but also for offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, weather permitting. After a day of exploring and capturing the beauty of Japan's most famous mountain in photographs, we will enjoy a traditional Japanese Family Nabe dinner at our guesthouse. We'll finish the day with some games.

Hakone - Kyoto. We'll pick up a quick breakfast on our way to board the bullet train to Kyoto. You'll have the chance to experience the sights and sounds of this beautiful city in winter during the first half of the day. In the evening, our tour guide will lead us through Kyoto's Gion district, renowned for its Geishas, who perform Japan's traditional art form of entertainment. With some luck, you might even catch a glimpse of one!

We'll start our day early and take the subway to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, allowing us to beat the tourist crowds and explore the winding paths through the mountain lined with endless rows of red torii gates. Following this, we'll visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, renowned as one of Japan's most famous temples. This stunning complex, made of bamboo and wood, is perched on the mountainside. Later, you'll have the option to participate in a traditional tea ceremony and rent kimonos (not included). The rest of the day will be yours to explore at your leisure.

We visit the Golden Temple of Kinkaku-ji, a stunning gold-covered structure surrounded by a serene lake. This destination attracts visitors all year round, but it becomes especially enchanting in winter. The sight of the Golden Pavilion against a backdrop of glistening snow is truly like stepping into a fairytale. Later, we will participate in a traditional Kendo class at its historical dojo. An authentic Bushido practitioner, descended from a real Japanese Samurai, will guide you in learning the principles of this honorable martial art.

Kyoto - Osaka. Make the most of the morning to explore independently before we proceed to the station for our next journey. Next, we will travel to Osaka, where you'll have some leisure time to discover the city. In the evening, we'll embark on a food tasting tour in the renowned Dotonbori area. You'll get to experience the cuisine, culture, vibrant lights, and lively atmosphere of the "Kitchen of Japan."

Osaka - Nagano. Before heading to the station for our train to Nagano, you will have some time in the morning to further explore Osaka. You can take in the stunning view of Osaka Castle and then return to the hotel to collect your bags before departing for Nagano. Nagano, known for hosting the 1998 Winter Olympics, is surrounded by some of the world's best ski slopes. During winter, it offers breathtaking scenery, with mountains blanketed in thick snow and beautiful frosted white sakura trees.

Nagano - Yudanaka Onsen - Nagano. In the morning, we will wake up early to explore a winter wonderland just a short train ride away. We'll aim to arrive at the Jigokudani Monkey Park as it opens, ensuring we avoid the crowds. After a brief walk through the stunning landscape, you'll catch your first sight of the renowned red-faced Snow Monkeys as they relax in the warm waters of the hot springs. We'll allocate free time for everyone in the enchanting onsen town of Yudanaka, where you can enjoy soaking in the hot springs surrounded by cool air or sample some local sake. In the evening, back in Nagano, we'll gather for our farewell karaoke celebration!

Nagano - Tokyo. It’s time to say goodbye to your new friends and head back to Tokyo by train (included). Our tour ends on arrival back in Tokyo.

Please note: If you would like to add a 3-day winter skiing adventure to your tour, see our Japan Winter Explorer & Ski 14-day tour.