24/7 support
No card fees

Cherry Blossom Festival

13 days

CHERRY BLOSSOM TOUR: See Japan in 2026! Springtime is one of the best times to visit Japan, when cherry blossom trees come out in full bloom across the nation. Take in the highlights of Japan, visit some of the country’s most beautiful gardens, witness the famous Spring Geisha Dances in Kyoto, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony and sample the crop (if you dare) at Japan's oldest Wasabi Farm.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.

Download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

- 13 days

Starts

- Tokyo

Ends

- Tokyo

Tour Guide

- Yes - escorted by a tour guide

Meals included

- Breakfast: 12, Dinner: 5

Group Size

- Min 4 / Max 18

Hotel Rating

- 3 & 4 star & traditional ryokans

Arrival Transfer

- Yes

Departure Transfer

- Unescorted train departure

Range

- Signature Journeys

Minimum age

- 15 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Country

- Japan

Tour Pace

- Medium

Physical Rating

- Moderate

Trip Type

- Group Tours
Adults (15+)
Price Breakdown
Shown in EUR
Per Person From

€6,015.00

Deposit Per Person From
Final payment

€2,212.50

€7,605.00
Call Us

Tour Highlights

Tokyo - Explore Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine and Shibuya Crossing, see the cherry blossoms in bloom in Hama-rikyu Gardens,
Matsumoto - Visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the few original and complete castles in Japan, giving a real sense of ancient Japan and how the Samurai used to live and fight
Daio Wasabi Farm - Find out how wasabi is grown, enjoy the spectacular scenery and perhaps even try some wasabi flavoured ice cream!
Takayama - Discover this enchanting ancient town famed for its narrow streets lined with inns, tea houses, shops and merchant houses. Enjoy a tea ceremony and a visit to a traditional Hida village on the outskirts of town
Kanazawa - See the cherry blossoms at Kenrokuen - one of the best and most beautiful feudal lords' gardens in Japan
Stay in a traditional ryokan - Sample Japanese hospitality, bathing in natural hot springs and wear a Yukata (casual Kimono)
Kyoto - Explore the UNESCO Listed ancient and cultural capital of Japan. Visit Nijo Castle, Sanjusagen-do Temple and Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Kyoto - Enjoy a walking tour of Gion Geisha District and watch the beautiful Miyako Odari (Spring Geisha Dances)
Hiroshima - Learn about the horrific hiroshima bombing, see the UNESCO Listed A-Bomb Dome and visit the beautiful Peace Park and moving Peace Memorial Museum,
Hakone - Marvel at the incredible views of the snow-capped Mt Fuji. Explore the beautiful region and travelling aboard mountain buses, switchback railways, boats and cable cars

Included

Breakfast daily and 5 dinners
12 nights 3 - 4 star accommodation (including a ryokan stay)
Airport arrival transfer on day 1 (by train) from Narita or Haneda International Airport
Guided sightseeing and walking tours in Tokyo, Matsumoto, Kanazawa, Takayama, Kyoto and Hakone
Day trip to Hiroshima with visits to Peace Park, Peace Park Museum, various memorials and the A-Bomb site
All relevant transfers and transportation - private buses and trains (including Tokyo Transport Pass and 2 day Hakone Free Pass)
Fuji Hakone National Park, with lake cruise, cable cars, ropeways and switchback trains
Ticket to the Spring Geisha Dances (Miyako Odori performance and guided tour of the Gion Geisha District in Kyoto
Escorted by a licensed English speaking Japanese tour guide
Entrance fees to all included sightseeing
Baggage forwarding service from Kyoto to Hakone (one bag per person)
Maximum group size: 18 persons
Train back to Narita or Haneda International Airport on day 13 (unescorted)

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$3-5 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guide is an entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Japan

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival to Tokyo you will be met at either Narita or Haneda International Airport by your guide or a representative and will travel togerther by train into the heart of the city and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure.We recommend arriving before 3pm on this day, as there will be a Welcome Meeting at 6pm, where you will meet your guide and the rest of the group.

Overnight: Tokyo
Day 2 - Tokyo sightseeing - Meiji Shrine, Ginza & Shibuya

Today we embark on a full day tour of the city by public transport. We start with a walk through Hamarikyu tei-en, a tranquil garden where we will be able to see cherry blossom trees. Later, we visit the revered Meiji Shrine where the emperor Meiji and his wife are enshrined.

The last stop of the day is the Shibuya Crossing - regarded as one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. It is said that up to a 1000 people converge onto the intersection with every light change. Known as 'the scramble' we'll give it a go then you can purchase a coffee at the second floor Starbucks located directly above and leisurely take in the spectacle from our vantage point. The remainder of the afternoon offers free time for you to further discover this exciting city independently, before our group welcome dinner at a local restaurant this evening.

Overnight: Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 - Beautiful Matsumoto Castle

Tokyo – Matsumoto. This morning we take a private coach to Matsumoto, and upon arrival visit the incredibly beautiful Matsumoto Castle, which is one of the original and most complete of the handful of medieval castles that exist in Japan today. The towering black and white structure holds some 400 years of history, is a National Treasure (1 of only 4 castles) and is the most iconic landmark in the city. The reward for climbing the narrow stairs to the top are the stunning views of the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto City and the swans circling in the moat below, that can be seen from the slim wooden windows (used for archers and gunmen). Tonight, we have the unique experience of enjoying a night at a traditional Japanese ryokan.

Overnight: Matsumoto
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 - Takayama - charming Hida Folk Village

Matsumoto – Takayama. From Matsumoto we take a private coach to Takayama, a charming town in the heart of the Hida Mountains. Established in the 16th century as the castle town of the Kanamori family, the town is famous throughout Japan for its old town area of narrow streets filled with well-preserved inns, tea houses, shops and merchants houses with latticed windows and overhanging roofs that are characteristic of the Edo period.

On our way to Takayama we will stop at the picturesque Daio Wasabi Farm, one of Japan’s largest wasabi farms. There is free time to take in the beautiful gardens and fields. The shop on site offers many different options to try of this unique product - wasabi chocolate, wasabi beer, wasabi ice-cream, wasabi juice and much more. Upon arrival to Takayama and we’ll drive to the outskirts of the town to visit the fascinating Hida Folk Village, an outdoor museum comprising 30 or so traditional farmhouses from around the Hida region, re-built here on the hillside overlooking the town.

Overnight: Takayama
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 - Takayama's Old Quarter

This morning we visit the town's market stalls, overflowing with fresh produce brought in daily from the surrounding fields before experiencing a traditional tea ceremony. An elevated art form in Japan, known in Japanese as sado ('the way of the tea')

Later, we explore Takayama’s Old Quarter, where you can enjoy free time to wander around the shops and perhaps visit a sake distillery to sample the town’s famous sake. Here you can also enjoy the 'onsen' or public hot springs, well known for their therapeutic benefits to body and mind!

During your stay in Takayama we recommend you sample some of Takayama’s delicious Hida beef at one of the many restaurants or beef burger cafes.

Overnight: Takayama
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 - Cherry blossoms of Kanazawa

Takayama – Kanazawa. Today we take a private coach to Kanazawa. First, we will head to the Nagamachi District located at the foot of the former Kanazawa Castle – known for its old samurai houses. Upon arrival we will visit the Nomura Family Samurai House. When it hits lunch time, we will explore the lively Omicho Ichiba Market, a food market and restaurant area.

Afterwards, we will visit one of Japan’s most impressive gardens, Kenroku-en, located opposite Kanazawa Castle. Once part of the feudal lord's garden, Kenroku-en is regarded as one of the best places to see the country's famous cherry blossoms - hopefully in full bloom. In Kanazawa, the cherry blossom trees are due to bloom in late March/early April. When in bloom, these delicate soft pink flowers can be seen lining the streets and filling the parks and gardens all over the city. The remainder of the day is at your own leisure.

Overnight: Kanazawa
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 - Kyoto - beauty, art & culture

Kanazawa – Kyoto. With our luggage in tow, this morning we’ll take two trains to reach Kyoto, Japan’s ancient and cultural capital, where we will spend the next three nights. As one of the most culturally rich cities in Asia, Kyoto is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, over 1,600 Buddhist Temples and 400 Shinto Shrines.

Upon arrival we tour Sanjusagen-do Temple, famous for its statues of Kannon. The one thousand life-size statues of Kannon are made of Japanese cypress and are completely covered in gold-leaf. Standing in rows of 10 and each hand carved, so that no two are alike. Our last stop today is the enchanted Fushimi Inari Shrine with its torii gates and picturesque tunnels.

Please note, during our time in Kyoto we will be travelling only via local transport. It will be busy at this time of year, but that's all part of the experience!

Overnight: Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 - Hiroshima - Peace Park, Museum & Memorials

Kyoto - Hiroshima - Kyoto. This morning we depart for a full day sightseeing excursion to Hiroshima, taking one of the fastest trains in Japan (the Nozomi Shinkansen) which reaches speeds of up to 300km on the route. Arriving to Hiroshima we visit the iconic A-Bomb Dome - one of the very few buildings left standing after the blast, the Peace Park and Peace Park Museum, which are a sobering reminder of Hiroshima’s devastating past. We return by train to Kyoto, arriving just after sundown.

Overnight: Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 - Kyoto's best temples, Miyako Odari - Spring Geisha dances

This morning we visit the stunning Zen Buddhist Temple of Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Temple which forms part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto's World Heritage Site. The top floor of the two-story structure is completely covered in gold and sits beside a small lake where its beauty is reflected in the calm waters. After, we embark on a guided walking tour of UNESCO Listed Nijo Castle, which was built by the first Tokugawa Shogunate in 1603, the exquisite castle is a wonderful example of Momoyama architecture.

Later today we make our way to Gion for a guided walk through the famed Geisha District. This evening, we have tickets to witness the Miyako Odari geisha dances at the Minami-za Theatre. Dinner tonight is at SODOH Higashiyama - keep a look out, as it's very possible to see Maiko (apprentice Geisha) dressed in beautiful kimono walking to and from their lessons.

Luggage Forwarding: Please note, you will need to pack an overnight bag as our main luggage will be couriered from Kyoto to Hakone and it will arrive tomorrow.

Overnight: Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Days 10-11 - Hakone National Park & Mt Fuji

Kyoto - Hakone National Park. Today a bullet train takes us to Fuji Hakone National Park on day 10, where we will spend the next two days exploring the local area. Arriving at our hotel after lunch, the afternoon is at leisure.

During our stay, we have access to unlimited travel on nearly all the local modes of transport thanks to our Hakone Freepass Card - from mountain buses, trams and switchback rail, to lofty cable cars. We'll take a cruise across picturesque Lake Ashi to Moto-Hakone to visit the Shinto Shrine of Hakone-jinja, where we will hopefully be rewarded with the best views of Mt Fuji (on a clear day), we will also see the Red Torii Gate of Hakone. At our Hakone hotel we can also enjoy the relaxing experience of more hot springs.

Overnight: Hakone
Meals: Breakfast x2, Dinner x2
Day 12 - Tokyo - Sensoji Temple District & free time

Hakone - Tokyo. We take a private coach back to Tokyo this morning and this time we will be staying in old-town Akakusa, a pretty district famous for its historic Sensoji Buddhist Temple and its abundance of interesting souvenir and craft stalls. After a guided visit of Senso-ji Temple, the rest of the afternoon offers the opportunity to do any last-minute sightseeing or shopping. You may also wish to head up to the Tokyo Sky Tree for some final dazzling views of the city.

Overnight: Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast
Day 13 - Goodbye Japan...

Today our holiday concludes. Travel (unescorted) back to Narita or Haneda International Airports by train.

We offer post-tour accommodation for those interested in staying in Tokyo a little longer, please enquire.

Meals: Breakfast

Tour Reviews

I loved the places we went too weren't always the big things seen on Insta. But I like we got to some of those too.

Liked the cities and gardens that we visited. We enjoyed the traditional Japanese dinners and also at one dinner we wore traditional clothing which was a great experience. Maho our guide was fantastic and was very passionate and knowledgeable about Japan.

Good paced tour around the key parts of Japan. Tour leader clearly did her best to look after all members.

Gardens and flowers wonderful Food ,cultural experiences Maho seeing Mt Fuji bullet train experience

We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and found most of the accommodation to be good.We really enjoyed our tour guide Kaori. She is extremely organised and has a lovely way of managing the group. Her likeable personality endeared her to the group.

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Pre Tour

Pre Tour Accommodation - Cherry Blossom Festival

Double

€175per passenger

Twin

€175per passenger

Single

€305per passenger
Post Tour

Post Tour Accommodation

Double

€335per passenger

Twin

€335per passenger

Single

€495per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Tokyo

Shinagawa Prince Hotel is a dynamic urban haven featuring 15 dining and beverage options, two swimming pools, and an in-house aquarium. With its 39-story structure, the hotel offers mesmerizing Tokyo vistas and complimentary Wi-Fi. Air-conditioned rooms include modern amenities like a fridge, en suite bathroom with a bathtub and shower booth, hairdryer, and personal locker. Beyond accommodation, guests enjoy entertainment facilities like a movie theatre, bowling alley, and tennis courts, along with a karaoke bar. A 24-hour front desk, indoor/outdoor pools, sauna, massage services, and vending machines are available. Dining is a treat with the 39th-floor Dining & Bar Table 9 Tokyo offering panoramic views, and various restaurants serving diverse cuisines.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi
Tokyo

Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi is a stylish hotel that is connected to Tokyo Station. Guests can enjoy rooms with modern interior, a fridge, private bathroom and flatscreen TV. For extra comfort, why not order room service, check out the restaurant or enjoy a massage? Guests will definitely want to visit the 27th floor TENQOO restaurant and bar, as it features beautiful views of the bustling city of Tokyo.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Nishikinoyu Jimotoya
Matsumoto

Nishikinoyu Jimotoya is a tradional Japanese Inn known as a ryokan located in the Asama Onsen area near Matsumoto. The property features indoor and outdoor hot spring baths and Japanese-style rooms which are equipped with tatami (woven-straw) floor and traditional futton mattresses as well as a private bathroom and seating area. There is a bar lounge on site as well as a Japanese garden to enjoy during your stay.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Japanese Ryokan
Hotel and Spa Gift Takayama
Takayama

Hotel and Spa Gift TAKAYAMA in Takayama offers air-conditioned family rooms with private bathrooms, city views, desks, TVs, and free WiFi. Guests enjoy a sauna, open-air and public baths, a 24-hour front desk, elevator, and paid private parking. Dining includes a buffet breakfast, dinner, and cocktails at the restaurant and bar. Just 3 minutes from Takayama Station, it's close to the Fuji Folk Museum and Takayama Festival Float Exhibition Hall.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Mystays Premieru Kanazawa
Kanazawa

With a short walk to Kanazawa Station, large comfortable rooms, well-equipped gym and complimentary Wifi, this hotel provides an enjoyable stay after a day of sightseeing Kanazawa's many sites. Included in your rooms are tea and coffee making facilities, a small fridge, private bathroom, air-conditioning, heating and a large flat screen TV. The hotel has an onsite café that offers both Japanese and western meals and a restaurant that offers tasty Hokuriku cuisine.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
3 Star Hotel
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae Premier
Kyoto

This modern and stylish hotel is located in the heart of Kyoto, just a few steps away from Kyoto Station. Well-appointed rooms are designed to provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay. Each room is equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, an electric kettle, and an ensuite bathroom with bathtub and shower. The hotel's restaurant is Vietnamese-themed and the breakfast menu consists of Japanese, Western and Vietnamese options.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Yumoto Fujiya Hotel
Hakone

Prepare for relaxation when you stay at Yumoto Fujiya Hotel. This hotel offers hot-spring baths, reflexology treatments and 4 dining options. You can even take advantage of the on-site sauna or private onsen. Each room includes a TV, WiFi, private bathroom, air-conditioning, seating area and bathtub. The outdoor pool is open during the summer - but why not check out other activities at the hotel - like karaoke or mahjong?

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2026
Double/Twin
Single
24 Mar - 5 Apr
€6,015
€7,375
27 Mar - 8 Apr
€6,015
€7,375

Similar Tours

Explore more exciting tours in Japan to discover even more unforgettable adventures!

4.4 out of 5 based on 300+ reviews