-
Cruises
All Cruises
Cruise deals
From Australia
International
Don't Miss OutHot Offers
The best-selling holidays right now, at prices that won't last.
Browse Hot Offers -
Tours
All Tours
By region
Curated lists
Travel With CompanySocial Getaways
Small-group trips designed for over 60s who love good company on the road — new friends, shared adventures, no single supplements.
Browse Over-60 Getaways -
Destinations
All Destinations
Australia & Pacific
America
Not Sure Where to Start?Book a Call
Speak with one of our friendly travel specialists — no pressure, just honest advice to help you find the right holiday.
Browse Request a call with a travel expert - Social Getaways
- Solo Holidays
- Hot Offers
- Wishlist 0
Immerse in Japan's beauty, traditions and cuisine on this 11-day guided tour, from Kyoto's temples to Oirase Gorge's natural splendour
- Explore Kyoto's ancient temples and witness a geisha performance
- Discover the natural wonders of Oirase Gorge and Matsushima Bay
- Enjoy a private sake tasting and behind-the-scenes tour at a local brewery
Trip Details
- Departs
- 23 September 2026
- Returns
- 14 November 2026
- Embarks
- Operator
- Luxury Gold
Be captivated by the beauty and traditions of Japan during this 11-day guided tour. Travel to Kyoto, a cultural hub for the country, where you can bask in the serenity surrounding the iconic Golden Pavilion. See the Giouji Temple — a Buddhist place of worship set amidst a moss-covered forest — and feast on a traditional Kyo-Kaiseki lunch as you watch an apprentice geisha perform beside you. In Tokyo, choose to make decadent sushi rolls using the finest quality fish during a private cooking class or join a Local Expert and explore the fashionable Omotesando and Harajuku neighborhoods before sampling a local lunch. Then discover the river valley of the Oirase Gorge, walking along its crystal-clear waters while marveling at the amber leaves that surround you. Later, journey to a local brewery for a private sake tasting and behind-the-scenes tour, led by a sake brew master.
Departures & Pricing
- 23 Sep 2026 - 03 Oct 2026
from $19,950 pp twin share * - 30 Sep 2026 - 10 Oct 2026
from $19,995 pp twin share * - 14 Oct 2026 - 24 Oct 2026
from $19,995 pp twin share * - 26 Oct 2026 - 05 Nov 2026
from $18,675 pp twin share * - 04 Nov 2026 - 14 Nov 2026
from $16,975 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.
Itinerary
- 1
Welcome to Osaka
Enjoy a private transfer to your five-star hotel to begin your Japan luxury tour. Tonight, awaken your tastebuds with tempura and sushi over stunning views over Osaka’s skyline
- 2
Highlights of Osaka
Take in 360-degree city views from the Floating Garden Observatory in the skyscraper, Umeda Sky Building. Continue your exploration of striking architecture at Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks and pivotal in the reunification of Japan during the 16th century. Discover Osaka’s foodie hub of Dotonbori Street on a gastronomic walking tour.
- 3
A Local Perspective on Hiroshima
Sit back and relax while you travel past small towns, rice fields and snow-capped mountains, arriving in Hiroshima by Shinkansen (bullet train). Explore Peace Memorial Park and Museum and meet a survivor who will share moving insights. Indulge in okonomiyaki pancakes before arriving in Kyoto, known for thousands of years as the Imperial capital of Japan.
- 4
The Temples and Geisha of Kyoto
Uncover Kyoto’s ancient traditions and revered culture on a city tour. Marvel at the Zen Buddhist temple Kinkaku-ji’s famed Golden Pavilion, Gio-ji Temple and take a quiet stroll through a grove of bamboo and maple trees. In the Gion district, dine on classic Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine and appreciate the talents of a Maiko, an apprentice geisha. Stroll around the vibrant neighbourhood, Kyoto's primary geisha district, and perhaps enjoy the local teahouses, lantern-lit restaurants and bars.
- 5
Mount Fuji and on to Tokyo
Board the bullet train to Mishima for spectacular views of Mount Fuji and admire its reflection in Lake Kawaguchi. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before visiting Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to admire the nature-inspired kimono designs or revelling in mountain views from the Kachi-Kachi Ropeway cable car to Mount Tenjo.
- 6
Explore Traditional Tokyo
Visit the Tokyo National Museum and Meiji-jingu Shrine. Learn to make sushi with a Master Sushi Chef or explore Omotesando and Harajuku. Tailor your evening at a restaurant specialising in Shabu-shabu or Teppanyaki.
- 7
Journey to Sendai
Hear insights into island life in Sendai, joining the owner of a local inn for a fresh seafood lunch. A private cruise shows off the impressive views of Matsushima Bay before a traditional tea ceremony.
- 8
Tsugaru and Hirosaki Castle
Travel in supreme comfort from Sendai to Shin-Aomori aboard the sleek Shinkansen. Pause for a refined lunch at a local restaurant before visiting Hirosaki Castle, where a cherry blossom expert reveals the secrets of Japan’s beloved sakura. Continue to Tsugaru han Neputa Village for a private performance of Tsugaru Shamisen and Taiko drumming, surrounded by vivid festival art. Later, step inside the Miurashuzo Brewery for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet the family of brew masters, learn about their centuries-old traditions and savour a curated tasting of sake made from locally grown rice and spring water drawn from Mt Iwaki. Conclude your day with a peaceful soak in a traditional onsen.
- 9
Exploring Oirase
Explore the natural splendour of Oirase Gorge, following a scenic trail alongside clear streams and waterfalls framed by ancient forest. Savour a light lunch at a local restaurant before visiting Towada’s cultural landmarks. At the Towada Art Centre, discover a collection of world-class contemporary artworks set within striking modern architecture.
- 10
The Highlights of Tokyo
Explore Askusa neighbourhood's Sensō-ji Buddhist Temple, the oldest temple in Japan. Stroll down Nakamise Street, where colourful Japanese souvenirs of traditional dress such as yukata and folding fans are on display. Celebrate your travels over fine dining at Hoshinonaruki.
- 11
Farewell Japan
Your Osaka to Tokyo luxury tour ends with your private car to Narita or Haneda International Airport for your onward journey.
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey.
- From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
- In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.
- Included at all hotels.
- Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
- Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi.
Accommodation
- Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel.
- Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, Oirase Gorge.
- Imperial Hotel, Osaka.
- The Thousands, Kyoto.
- The Westin, Sendai.
Common questions about this voyage
How long is this journey?
When can I travel?
Are there different departure options?
Are discounts available?
What is generally included?
Book this cruise
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
Terms & conditions
Read the operator’s full booking conditions
Luxury Gold guests can relax right from the start with our exclusive door-to-door private transfer service. Valid for up to 50km from major Australian Airports. Surcharges apply for transfers exceeding 50km. Service is available for guests travelling on tours departing in 2026 only. Other terms and conditions may apply. Complimentary arrival transfers are available from Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami Airport (ITM) on the first day of the trip or in conjunction with pre-trip accommodation. Complimentary departure transfers are available to Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND) on the last day of the trip or with post-trip accommodation. Flight information must be provided to Luxury Gold in order to book transfers. Full passport information is required for all passengers on this booking. Guests will require a smaller overnight bag for the 1 night stay in Sendai as their main luggage will be transferred directly from Tokyo to Oirase Gorge.
You might also like
Magical Japan
- Sushi-making class
- Miso factory guided tour
- Japanese tea ceremony and sake tasting
Legendary Japan
- Seamless personal assistance from a dedicated Travel Concierge
- Exclusive reservations and transportation arranged for you
- Illuminating experiences with Local Expert Guides in select destinations
Splendours of Japan
- Expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- Must-see sightseeing with audio headsets