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Small Group Tours of Japan

Journey

Our Japan small group tours, typically limited to max 8 guests. They redefine intimate travel and offering truly distinct advantages.

This page outlines a selection of tours specifically curated to maximise every one of those advantages.

Small group tours generally mean easier logistics because there are fewer travellers. However, groups of typically max 8 guests go beyond that, to get you access to places bigger groups can’t go. Plus, with more meaningful one on one time with your guide you will appreciate a deeper connection to Japan’s culture, people, and landscapes.

The Japan small group tours below are journeys crafted for seasoned travellers who value substance over spectacle as well as depth over checklists — and who want to experience Japan in a way most never will.

Curating these small group Japan tours 2026 with such a small number of guests made it possible to include small family-run ryokans, quiet mountain villages, intimate restaurants, and artisans who open their doors to only a few. We were able to create travel that feels personal, immersive, and effortless.

To deliver the true small group experience in Japan that guests expect, the number of tours and importantly the number of departures are limited. This also facilitates the high level of care and attention to detail that you should expect. The small group tours in Japan are curated tours by season or theme — from cherry blossom to Autumn tours or Garden to slow walking, food, rural etc – They are grouped below. Just click the tour that takes your fancy and see the full itinerary.

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The benefits of our Japan Small Group Tours

Extra small group size of 6-10 people

All transport and activities are included

Lead by qualified expert local guides

Stay at locally owned boutique accommodation

Connect with the people of Japan in their local settings

Enjoy exclusive access to small top-notch local eateries, craftspeople’s studios & history

Carefully crafted itineraries to get you closer to Japan's people and culture

Visit regional cities and village well off the common tourist trails

Autumn Tours

Departs from mid October to late November
A 16 day visit to internationally renowned Japanese gardens and art museums during the blazing autumn colours. A cultural experience with a touch of luxury and an easy pace.
Next Departure 25th Nov, 2025
A tour for nature and history lovers, walk the ancient Nakasendo Way, stroll historic Takayama & cover fascinating feudal Matsumoto.
Next Departure 7th Nov, 2025
This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a higher level of comfort and easier pace. It offers comprehensive cultural insights, diverse landscapes and a variety of authentic experiences of Japan.
Next Departure 13th Nov, 2025
A gastronomic adventure through the island of Kyushu, fast-becoming Japan’s foodie destination for its fresh produce and culinary tradition and innovation.
Next Departure 14th Nov, 2025
Walk along with the pilgrims of Shikoku 88 Temples, ride scenic trains and travel through most remote parts of Japan at the peak of autumn
Next Departure 18th Nov, 2026
A 15 day visit to internationally renowned Japanese gardens and art museums during the blazing autumn colours. A cultural experience with a touch of luxury and an easy pace.
Next Departure 14th Nov, 2026

Cherry Blossom Tours

Departs from late February to April
Targeting the late-blooming cherry blossoms in mid to late-April, this tour features the less travelled rural heartland of Northern Japan and natural beauty of Hokkaido.
Next Departure 10th Apr, 2026
An exceptional 14-day Japan food tour across Japan’s southern island of Kyushu in spring – eat at a Michelin restaurant and street cart, take a cooking lesson from a chef, and visit centuries-old producers of sake, green tea and soy sauce.
Next Departure 2nd Apr, 2026
Cultural immersion and all major icons of Japan at cherry-blossom time
Next Departure 23rd Mar, 2026
A cherry blossom tour with a special focus on high quality Japanese crafts. Staged in the much less travelled Sea of Japan Coast with spectacular cherry blossoms, unique immersive experiences, accommodation, and food.
Next Departure 28th Mar, 2026
The ultimate bucket-list tour of Japan at cherry blossom time for those who prefer a little comfort and slower pace
Next Departure 3rd Apr, 2026

Winter Tours

Departs from late December to February
Want to experience a different White Christmas in Japan this year? With snow capped Mt Fuji and a farming village, gorgeously lit up cities, and unique winter activities at the gorgeous snow resort Tomamu in Hokkaido, this tour is for you!
Next Departure 12th Dec, 2025
This spectacular winter tour of Hokkaido Japan has it all; the Sapporo Snow Festival, drift ice, snowshoe walks, dancing red-crested cranes, local food and culture and more.
Next Departure 30th Jan, 2026

Garden & Art Tours

Departs all year round
An unforgettable 15-day journey to Japan’s most iconic destinations to see the nation’s top gardens and experience a stunning selection of Japanese art.
Next Departure 2nd Nov, 2025
A once-in-a-lifetime journey to experience the best of Japan’s traditional and contemporary architecture. Travel through spectacular landscapes of valleys and mountains, and stay in designer-styled accommodation in charming historic towns.
Next Departure 16th Nov, 2025
A 16 day visit to internationally renowned Japanese gardens and art museums during the blazing autumn colours. A cultural experience with a touch of luxury and an easy pace.
Next Departure 25th Nov, 2025
A cherry blossom tour with a special focus on high quality Japanese crafts. Staged in the much less travelled Sea of Japan Coast with spectacular cherry blossoms, unique immersive experiences, accommodation, and food.
Next Departure 28th Mar, 2026
An unforgettable 15-day journey to visit Japan’s top gardens, choice art venues and it’s a fully escorted small group tour.
Next Departure 24th May, 2026
Discover Japanese craftsmanship at its finest. Visit master artisans of pottery, textile, woodcraft, papermaking and sword making on the southern island of Kyushu.
Next Departure 15th Apr, 2026

Food Tours

Departs all year round
A gastronomic adventure through the island of Kyushu, fast-becoming Japan’s foodie destination for its fresh produce and culinary tradition and innovation.
Next Departure 14th Nov, 2025
An exceptional 14-day Japan food tour across Japan’s southern island of Kyushu in spring – eat at a Michelin restaurant and street cart, take a cooking lesson from a chef, and visit centuries-old producers of sake, green tea and soy sauce.
Next Departure 2nd Apr, 2026
Seafood, dairy, wagyu beef, fruit and vegetables, sake and whiskey, from Michelin-starred restaurants to ramen and street food, the 2026 Food Tour of Hokkaido Japan has it all! The tour also includes many personal experiences such as cooking traditional dishes with fishermen’s wives. Definitely, the Hokkaido Tour to brag about!
Next Departure 1st Jun, 2026
Embark on a food tour Japan in autumn through Kyushu, Japan’s rising star for food lovers – where rich culinary traditions meet fresh local produce and bold, modern innovation
Next Departure 16th Nov, 2026

Walking Tours

Departs in February and October
A tour for nature and history lovers, walk the ancient Nakasendo Way, stroll historic Takayama & cover fascinating feudal Matsumoto.
Next Departure 7th Nov, 2025
A Journey into the Soul of Tohoku with hidden gems, cultural immersion and nature walks
Next Departure 12th Oct, 2025
Walk along with the pilgrims of Shikoku 88 Temples, ride scenic trains and travel through most remote parts of Japan at the peak of autumn
Next Departure 18th Nov, 2026

Remote Tours

Departs all year round
A tour for nature and history lovers, walk the ancient Nakasendo Way, stroll historic Takayama & cover fascinating feudal Matsumoto.
Next Departure 7th Nov, 2025
A Journey into the Soul of Tohoku with hidden gems, cultural immersion and nature walks
Next Departure 12th Oct, 2025
Want to experience a different White Christmas in Japan this year? With snow capped Mt Fuji and a farming village, gorgeously lit up cities, and unique winter activities at the gorgeous snow resort Tomamu in Hokkaido, this tour is for you!
Next Departure 12th Dec, 2025
This spectacular winter tour of Hokkaido Japan has it all; the Sapporo Snow Festival, drift ice, snowshoe walks, dancing red-crested cranes, local food and culture and more.
Next Departure 30th Jan, 2026
Targeting the late-blooming cherry blossoms in mid to late-April, this tour features the less travelled rural heartland of Northern Japan and natural beauty of Hokkaido.
Next Departure 10th Apr, 2026
An exceptional 14-day Japan food tour across Japan’s southern island of Kyushu in spring – eat at a Michelin restaurant and street cart, take a cooking lesson from a chef, and visit centuries-old producers of sake, green tea and soy sauce.
Next Departure 2nd Apr, 2026

Looking for something custom fit to you?

Do you have a specific time for travel, a group you want to travel with, or special needs and wishes for your trip to Japan? We can create a unique Private Tour for you. 

Or you can take one of our Model Itineraries as is, or combine or modify it to suit your needs. There are some great Extension Itineraries available too, and they can also be added before or after joining our Japan Small Group Tours.

A thoughtful plan featuring interesting and significant places to visit, excellent cuisine, wonderful lodging and an A+ tour guide.

Trip date: November 2024

Raeanne Schmidt

HI, USA

Journey to the East met all my expectations and more. I can truly say I enjoyed everything. I felt totally taken care of and Fumiko-san was a fabulous guide, she made the tour so special. I have SO many fabulous memories. I would recommend the Food Tour of Kyushu Japan in Autumn to anyone and Journey to the East was very helpful answering all my questions pre-tour.

Trip date: November 2024

Clare Maiorano

WA, Australia

Don’t miss out on this trip, Kyushu is a beautiful island with outstanding restaurants, scenery, and culture, so well packaged by Journey to the East.

Trip date: November 2024

Molly Cureton

BC, Canada

This is not your run of the mill tour of Japan.  It is an imaginatively crafted and well choreographed food odyssey, set against the lush and inviting backdrop of lesser-known Kyushu.  A truly authentic and memorable experience. 

Trip date: November 2024

Neil Murphy

Oxson, UK

Brilliant tour, great mix of outstanding food and culture without being overwhelmed by too many shrines. Experienced Japan in a way we could never have done by ourselves.

Trip date: November 2023

Kate Lewis

VIC, Australia

Get in touch and book your next trip with Journey to the East

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Tour Types

Our Signature tours suit inquisitive and open-minded travellers keen to embrace Japanese culture in all its forms. People who enjoy trying new food will love the chance to taste-test their way through a diverse daily selection of Japanese food. Being able to engage directly with experts such as tea ceremony practitioners, chefs and craftspeople will appeal to those who want to understand Japan at a deeper level. Our walking tour components will suit those who love exploring the history and present-day life of local neighbourhoods. Signature tours are also perfect for those who like an active itinerary but who also want some flexibility and time to explore on their own.

Discovery tours suit those travellers who are adventurous-minded, have above average fitness levels, and enjoy being outdoors exploring a destination by foot. They are also suited to people who prefer an itinerary which includes some free time so they can pursue their own interests and make their own discoveries.

Comfort tours suit those travellers who want to experience Japan’s culture and traditions while enjoying a more relaxed pace of travel and staying at premium-level accommodation with western-style amenities. They are appropriate for those who prefer itineraries with more included activities, more organised meals, and less free time.