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Self-Guided Adventure
Tailor-made
Northern Highlights
13 Nights: from US$3497 per person (twin share) Trip Code: NHC
When the famous Haiku poet Matsuo Basho set off on his pilgrimage to the North he was to discover rural Japan, a land of lush landscapes and rich in legend. As you journey through the pilgrimage towns of Tohoku you'll experience some of the same Japan as the great poet. Read more >
As soon as you start heading north from Tokyo into the Tohoku region you begin leaving the crowds behind. This northern half of Japan's main island is considered off the beaten track even amongst Japanese; a region where the pace of life is slower, the culture richer and the hospitality warmer.
Taking you deep into the mountains and along the wild coasts of this beautiful part of Japan, this itinerary will introduce you to a side of the country that most visitors never get to see.
From the ornate temples and shrines of Nikko National Park to the spiritual forests of Mount Haguro; from an atmospheric overnight stay at a pilgrims' lodging to the ramshackle buildings of Nyuto Onsen; be prepared to see a very different side of Japan to what you've known before.
The past is ever-present in the Tohoku region, and as you tour Kakunodate's samurai district and explore the temples atop Mount Haguro, history can seem to come alive.
Though primarily focussed on rural destinations, this itinerary also includes city stays in Sendai and Tokyo, enabling you to experience the striking contrasts between life in the Japanese countryside and life in some of the world's largest metropolises.
From Sendai you'll have the chance to visit the temple complex of Yamadera, clinging to the side of a cliff - and Matsushima Bay, a collection of scenic islets considered to be one of the top three views of Japan.
This is your chance to explore a rich and enchanting side of Japan rarely visited by tourists. There are many ways you can extend your Tohoku trip, including adding in a side trip after Mount Haguro to rugged Sado Island, home of taiko drumming, and if you're travelling in winter, the hot spring town of Ginzan Onsen is postcard-perfect in the snow. Let us know your interests and we can tailor the itinerary accordingly.
Transport: please note that this itinerary includes five days' driving, which is the best way to explore the Tohoku region. If you're worried about driving in Japan, we can make alternative arrangements such as a private car (at additional cost). There is also public transport; Tohoku does have a Shinkansen bullet train line running up the middle of the region but after that you have to reply on slightly infrequent local train lines.
Driving in Japan: Please note that to drive in Japan you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you leave your home country.
What's included
- 13 nights' accommodation in Japan (three nights Japanese style)
- Breakfast every day, four evening meals and one lunch
- Airport transfers
- Transport between destinations unless otherwise specified
- Manaca transport card with 2,500 yen credit for use on local transport
- Five days' car hire
- Eight-hour private guide service in Tokyo
- Group cycling tour of Nikko
- Evening food tour of Sendai
- Day trip to Matsushima Bay with lunch included
- Pocket WiFi device
- Your personalised InsideJapan Info-Pack
What's NOT included:
- International flights
- Local transport (buses, subways, taxis) at any destination unless otherwise specified
- Any entrance fees including those for shrines, temples and museums unless otherwise specified
- Petrol (gas) and tolls for car hire
- Baggage handling and luggage forwarding
Trip Highlights
- Explore the sights and sounds of Tokyo
- Discover Sendai food culture on an evening tour
- Explore the old samurai town of Kakunodate
- Discover the temples of Nikko
- Relax in a hot spring bath at Nyuto Onsen
- Stay in a temple lodging on Mount Haguro
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 303 952 0379
What, where, when and how...
Northern Highlights - 14 Days
Northern Highlights - 14 Days - Day by Day
Northern Highlights - 14 Days - Accommodation
Northern Highlights - 14 Days - Experiences
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Day 1-3
Enjoy a tea ceremony in Hamarikyu Gardens or survey Tokyo from 634m above the ground as you explore the many delights of Japan's capital.
To kick off your northern adventure you will be staying in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, the city's historical quarter and home to Senso-ji: Tokyo's oldest temple. You have the remainder of today to settle in and explore the many great sights within the vicinity of your hotel. There are numerous restaurants nearby and plenty of exciting options to ease you into your Japanese experience.
On your first full day in Tokyo you will be taking a tour of the city with a private guide, who will help you plan an itinerary to cover some of the city's famous spots and some of its more unusual locations.
Perhaps visit Hamarikyu Gardens to participate in a tea ceremony, followed by a walk to the impressive Meiji Shrine and a spectacular view of Tokyo from the Metropolitan Government Buildings.
After an action-packed day of guiding you will have another full day to either continue exploring the city independently or to make a day trip out of Tokyo.
Just a short train ride away you'll find the vast Chinatown at Yokohama; the giant Buddha statue at coastal Kamakura; and some excellent hiking trails around Mount Takao. Details of how to make these day trips and more will be included in your Info-Pack.Overnight: Gracery Asakusa Hotel
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Day 4-5
Swap city life for the peace and quiet of the forest as you take a tour of Japan's most opulent religious architecture in Nikko National Park.
Today you will leave the capital behind to start your journey north. You will travel by local train to Nikko, where you will have two days to explore the area, from Nikko's famous shrines and temples to the national park. Highlights include the impressive Kegon waterfalls, the hot spring temple at Yumoto and a cable car ride with great views of Lake Chuzen-ji – as well as plenty of hiking trails.
You will have another full day in Nikko to explore the area; a unique way to see the area is by bike, so we've included a guided cycling tour. If you'd prefer to explore on foot with a guide, we can arrange that too.
Lots of suggestions will be included in your Info-Pack.Overnight: Nikko Station Classic
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Day 6-8
Speed north on the bullet train to Sendai, a modern city with a rich history.
This morning you will take the local train to Utsunomiya before changing trains for your first trip on the Shinkansen, Japan's world-famous bullet train. This will whisk you on to the city of Sendai, the gateway to the north and a modern city with a rich history.
Based at a hotel in the centre of the city, you will be able to use the loop bus to visit the various historical sights such as the castle ruins and the mausoleum of Sendai's founding father, Date Masamune. In the evening we'll arrange for you to join a guided food tour of some of Sendai's best eateries, giving you the chance to try out the local gourmet specialties.
On your second day in Sendai you will have the chance to go further afield and visit the island-studded bay of Matsushima. Our favourite way is to go with a guide to try out Matsushima's most famous produce: oysters, which you can pluck fresh from the sea! Non-seafood fans might prefer to explore on their own; your Info-Pack will be full of suggestions.
You will have one more day in Sendai, and again we highly recommend heading out on a day trip, this time to mountaintop Yamadera Temple. There are a fair few steps to get to the top, but the view – especially in autumn – is well worth it.Overnight: Hotel Vista Sendai
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Day 9-10
Wend your way into the mountains for a relaxing stay at the hot spring village of Nyuto Onsen, one of the most impressive in Japan.
Today you will pick up your rental car and drive north to the mountain village of Nyuto Onsen.
Quite simply one of the most impressive hot spring towns in Japan, the baths here are scattered through forests and mountains and are a real treat! Dinner will be included tonight at your Japanese-style ryokan inn.
After a night in this secluded mountain village you will have a day to explore the area with your car. We recommend taking a day trip to either Lake Tazawa for a boat cruise or a cycle ride, or over to Mount Akita Komagatake for some great hiking and fabulous views.
In the evening you will be served another fabulous dinner and will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the hot springs in Nyuto Onsen.Overnight: Tsurunoyu
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Day 11
Walk through history as you explore the ancient samurai town of Kakunodate.
Today you will make your way to Kakunodate, an ancient samurai town set on a plain amongst the Tohoku mountains. There are a number of original samurai residences here to explore and the whole town has a real sense of history to it.
Kakunodate is also the most popular spot in the Tohoku region for cherry blossom viewing, with hundreds of weeping shidareazakura trees around the historic town.Overnight: Kakunodate Hotel Folkloro
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Day 12
Sample traditional temple fare as you spend the night at a shukubo temple lodging in Haguro village.
Today you will travel south along the Sea of Japan Coast before heading inland once more to Mount Haguro, one of the Dewa Sanzan sacred mountains. Here you will be staying at a traditional shukubo, or pilgrims' lodging, which is sure to be a memorable experience.
Whilst in Haguro you can make the trek up the 2,446 steps to the top of the mountain – or alternatively take the bus! You may also wish to visit the Yamabushi museum in the centre of Haguro village. A typical Buddhist shojin ryori dinner will be included in your stay tonight.Overnight: Kanbayashi Katsukane Shukubo
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Day 13-14
Cap off your trip with a night in Tokyo's vibrant entertainment district, a dramatic contrast to your northern adventure!
Today you will drop off your hire car and hop on the Shinkansen for the last time to take you back to the capital city. You will be staying in Shinjuku, the entertainment and business heart of Tokyo. There are literally thousands of bars, restaurants, clubs and karaoke rooms to choose from here, so you're sure to have a fantastic finale to your adventures.
At last it is time for you to leave Japan, and on your final morning you will travel back to the airport by shuttle bus. Have a safe journey home!Overnight: JR Kyushu Blossom Shinjuku
-
Day 1-3
Enjoy a tea ceremony in Hamarikyu Gardens or survey Tokyo from 634m above the ground as you explore the many delights of Japan's capital.
To kick off your northern adventure you will be staying in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, the city's historical quarter and home to Senso-ji: Tokyo's oldest temple. You have the remainder of today to settle in and explore the many great sights within the vicinity of your hotel. There are numerous restaurants nearby and plenty of exciting options to ease you into your Japanese experience.
On your first full day in Tokyo you will be taking a tour of the city with a private guide, who will help you plan an itinerary to cover some of the city's famous spots and some of its more unusual locations.
Perhaps visit Hamarikyu Gardens to participate in a tea ceremony, followed by a walk to the impressive Meiji Shrine and a spectacular view of Tokyo from the Metropolitan Government Buildings.
After an action-packed day of guiding you will have another full day to either continue exploring the city independently or to make a day trip out of Tokyo.
Just a short train ride away you'll find the vast Chinatown at Yokohama; the giant Buddha statue at coastal Kamakura; and some excellent hiking trails around Mount Takao. Details of how to make these day trips and more will be included in your Info-Pack.Overnight: Gracery Asakusa Hotel
-
Day 4-5
Swap city life for the peace and quiet of the forest as you take a tour of Japan's most opulent religious architecture in Nikko National Park.
Today you will leave the capital behind to start your journey north. You will travel by local train to Nikko, where you will have two days to explore the area, from Nikko's famous shrines and temples to the national park. Highlights include the impressive Kegon waterfalls, the hot spring temple at Yumoto and a cable car ride with great views of Lake Chuzen-ji – as well as plenty of hiking trails.
You will have another full day in Nikko to explore the area; a unique way to see the area is by bike, so we've included a guided cycling tour. If you'd prefer to explore on foot with a guide, we can arrange that too.
Lots of suggestions will be included in your Info-Pack.Overnight: Nikko Station Classic
-
Day 6-8
Speed north on the bullet train to Sendai, a modern city with a rich history.
This morning you will take the local train to Utsunomiya before changing trains for your first trip on the Shinkansen, Japan's world-famous bullet train. This will whisk you on to the city of Sendai, the gateway to the north and a modern city with a rich history.
Based at a hotel in the centre of the city, you will be able to use the loop bus to visit the various historical sights such as the castle ruins and the mausoleum of Sendai's founding father, Date Masamune. In the evening we'll arrange for you to join a guided food tour of some of Sendai's best eateries, giving you the chance to try out the local gourmet specialties.
On your second day in Sendai you will have the chance to go further afield and visit the island-studded bay of Matsushima. Our favourite way is to go with a guide to try out Matsushima's most famous produce: oysters, which you can pluck fresh from the sea! Non-seafood fans might prefer to explore on their own; your Info-Pack will be full of suggestions.
You will have one more day in Sendai, and again we highly recommend heading out on a day trip, this time to mountaintop Yamadera Temple. There are a fair few steps to get to the top, but the view – especially in autumn – is well worth it.Overnight: Hotel Vista Sendai
-
Day 9-10
Wend your way into the mountains for a relaxing stay at the hot spring village of Nyuto Onsen, one of the most impressive in Japan.
Today you will pick up your rental car and drive north to the mountain village of Nyuto Onsen.
Quite simply one of the most impressive hot spring towns in Japan, the baths here are scattered through forests and mountains and are a real treat! Dinner will be included tonight at your Japanese-style ryokan inn.
After a night in this secluded mountain village you will have a day to explore the area with your car. We recommend taking a day trip to either Lake Tazawa for a boat cruise or a cycle ride, or over to Mount Akita Komagatake for some great hiking and fabulous views.
In the evening you will be served another fabulous dinner and will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the hot springs in Nyuto Onsen.Overnight: Tsurunoyu
-
Day 11
Walk through history as you explore the ancient samurai town of Kakunodate.
Today you will make your way to Kakunodate, an ancient samurai town set on a plain amongst the Tohoku mountains. There are a number of original samurai residences here to explore and the whole town has a real sense of history to it.
Kakunodate is also the most popular spot in the Tohoku region for cherry blossom viewing, with hundreds of weeping shidareazakura trees around the historic town.Overnight: Kakunodate Hotel Folkloro
-
Day 12
Sample traditional temple fare as you spend the night at a shukubo temple lodging in Haguro village.
Today you will travel south along the Sea of Japan Coast before heading inland once more to Mount Haguro, one of the Dewa Sanzan sacred mountains. Here you will be staying at a traditional shukubo, or pilgrims' lodging, which is sure to be a memorable experience.
Whilst in Haguro you can make the trek up the 2,446 steps to the top of the mountain – or alternatively take the bus! You may also wish to visit the Yamabushi museum in the centre of Haguro village. A typical Buddhist shojin ryori dinner will be included in your stay tonight.Overnight: Kanbayashi Katsukane Shukubo
-
Day 13-14
Cap off your trip with a night in Tokyo's vibrant entertainment district, a dramatic contrast to your northern adventure!
Today you will drop off your hire car and hop on the Shinkansen for the last time to take you back to the capital city. You will be staying in Shinjuku, the entertainment and business heart of Tokyo. There are literally thousands of bars, restaurants, clubs and karaoke rooms to choose from here, so you're sure to have a fantastic finale to your adventures.
At last it is time for you to leave Japan, and on your final morning you will travel back to the airport by shuttle bus. Have a safe journey home!Overnight: JR Kyushu Blossom Shinjuku
Trip Reviews
Self-Guided Adventure Northern Highlights
Read more >Excellent knowledgable service from beginning to end.
Self-Guided Adventure Northern Highlights
Read more >Overall service was good. Only reason why I marked not excellent is because there were a few mistakes during the initial drafts of the itinerary and some advice that…
Tour Gallery
Trip Reviews
Self-Guided Adventure Northern Highlights
Read more >Excellent knowledgable service from beginning to end.
Self-Guided Adventure Northern Highlights
Read more >Overall service was good. Only reason why I marked not excellent is because there were a few mistakes during the initial drafts of the itinerary and some advice that…
5.0 out of 5 from 1 review Show all Northern Highlights Reviews
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