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Small Group Tours of Japan
旅
Journey
Our very popular extra small group tours will deliver a truly immersive experience of Japan
Join our small group tours of Japan and enjoy the best of both worlds: detailed planning, expert guidance, charming hotels, and the fun of accessing off-the-beaten-path adventures.
These trips are enjoyed by anyone who speaks English. You will meet like-minded travellers on these small group tours of Japan from Australia, USA, Canada, UK, NZ and many more places.
Each Small Group Tour of Japan is individually crafted around a specific theme. Pick a theme below and see our list of Japanese small group tours matched to the appropriate time of the year.
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
Visit 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 11th Nov, 2023
A once-in-a-lifetime journey to experience the best of Japan’s traditional and contemporary architecture. Travel through spectacular landscapes ablaze in autumn colours and stay in designer-styled accommodation in charming historic towns.
Next Departure 8th Nov, 2023
One of our most comprehensive and popular trips, this tour offers you a journey of a lifetime at one of the most magical times to visit Japan – autumn!
Next Departure 4th Nov, 2024
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 16th Nov, 2024
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 17th Nov, 2024
Staged in Japan’s northern region of Tohoku, much less visited by international tourists, this tour offers the rural traditions and warm hospitality, intense autumn colours and stunning natural landscapes.
Next Departure 22nd Oct, 2024
Cherry Blossom Tours
Departs from late February to April
An exceptional 14-day culinary journey across Japan’s southern island of Kyushu in spring – meet local farmers and innovative chefs, eat at Michelin restaurants and local street carts, and visit centuries-old producers of Japanese sake and premium green tea
Next Departure 24th Mar, 2024
Experience the late-blooming cherry blossoms on this spectacular journey through the rural heartland of Northern Japan in spring – discover the proud samurai heritage and unique traditions of Tohoku plus the stunning natural landscapes and old trading ports of Hokkaido
Next Departure 16th Apr, 2024
The ultimate bucket-list tour of Japan’s must-see sights in spring – temples, castles and gardens set against a stunning backdrop of pink blossoms – for those who prefer a little comfort in their travel style
Next Departure 29th Mar, 2024
An exhilarating adventure along the spectacular Sea of Japan coast at cherry blossom time, packed full of unique immersive experiences during the trip.
Next Departure 31st Mar, 2024
A comprehensive Japan experience taking you on magical journey across Japan at cherry-blossom time, packed full of cultural activities and genuine immersion
Next Departure 27th Mar, 2024
An unforgettable journey across central Japan in spring – see all the iconic sights on this cherry blossom tour which offers all the advantages of a guided trip but with set free days to make your own discoveries
Next Departure 28th Mar, 2024
Winter Tours
Departs from late December to February
This tour through Japan’s spectacular winter landscape has it all; the Sapporo Snow Festival, snow monkeys, dancing red-crested cranes, even an icebreaker ride.
Next Departure 24th Jan, 2024
Ever dreamt of fresh powder snow and perhaps making a snowman on Christmas Day? This tour is designed to travel Japan in the winter season experiencing a peaceful White Christmas as well as the traditional festive atmosphere towards the New Year in Japan.
Next Departure 15th Dec, 2023
Garden & Art Tours
Departs all year round
Visit 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 11th Nov, 2023
A once-in-a-lifetime journey to experience the best of Japan’s traditional and contemporary architecture. Travel through spectacular landscapes ablaze in autumn colours and stay in designer-styled accommodation in charming historic towns.
Next Departure 8th Nov, 2023
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 14th May, 2024
Food Tours
Departs all year round
An exceptional 14-day culinary journey across Japan’s southern island of Kyushu in spring – meet local farmers and innovative chefs, eat at Michelin restaurants and local street carts, and visit centuries-old producers of Japanese sake and premium green tea
Next Departure 24th Mar, 2024
Seafood, dairy, wagyu beef, rice, fruit and vegetables, sake and whiskey, from Michelin-starred restaurants to ramen and street food, the 2024 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 4th Jun, 2024
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 17th Nov, 2024
Walking Tours
Departs in February and October
This walking tour takes you to some of Japan’s most pristine and stunning remote landscapes, with the Japanese Alps high above you and at the peak of autumn too. The brilliant autumn colours will take your breath away on a variety of short walks (8-10km) through the national parks and small villages.
Next Departure 14th Oct, 2024
2024 Spiritual Walks of Northern Japan (in Yamagata) takes you through spiritual mountains, national parks ablaze in autumn colours and authentic onsen villages. An ideal opportunity to be stunned by the beautiful Japanese rural landscapes and the warm traditional hospitality of northern Japan.
Next Departure 13th Oct, 2024
Unforgettable hiking on the Nakasendo Way – Japan’s most scenic walking route. The 8-Day guided tour also includes the historic town of Takayama.
Next Departure 8th Nov, 2024
Remote Tours
Departs all year round
This tour through Japan’s spectacular winter landscape has it all; the Sapporo Snow Festival, snow monkeys, dancing red-crested cranes, even an icebreaker ride.
Next Departure 24th Jan, 2024
Ever dreamt of fresh powder snow and perhaps making a snowman on Christmas Day? This tour is designed to travel Japan in the winter season experiencing a peaceful White Christmas as well as the traditional festive atmosphere towards the New Year in Japan.
Next Departure 15th Dec, 2023
A once-in-a-lifetime journey to experience the best of Japan’s traditional and contemporary architecture. Travel through spectacular landscapes ablaze in autumn colours and stay in designer-styled accommodation in charming historic towns.
Next Departure 8th Nov, 2023
An exceptional 14-day culinary journey across Japan’s southern island of Kyushu in spring – meet local farmers and innovative chefs, eat at Michelin restaurants and local street carts, and visit centuries-old producers of Japanese sake and premium green tea
Next Departure 24th Mar, 2024
Experience the late-blooming cherry blossoms on this spectacular journey through the rural heartland of Northern Japan in spring – discover the proud samurai heritage and unique traditions of Tohoku plus the stunning natural landscapes and old trading ports of Hokkaido
Next Departure 16th Apr, 2024
An exhilarating adventure along the spectacular Sea of Japan coast at cherry blossom time, packed full of unique immersive experiences during the trip.
Next Departure 31st Mar, 2024
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 in 2023.
Our first trip to Japan was an amazing experience. It was the perfect mix of autumn foliage viewing, active walking, trying Japanese food and accommodation styles and learning about Japanese history, culture and environment from Journey to the East fantastic guides. We will definitely book another active tour with them in the future.
5/5
Trip date: 2019
Neil & Sue Collins
Australia
Our first visit to Japan was way beyond what we expected thanks to the fabulous organisation and information supplied by JttE. We especially enjoyed walking and using public transport. The itinerary was great with a few 3 day stops and can’t speak highly enough about the guides they were wonderful. The autumn colours were fabulous. Would recommend JttE to anyone contemplating a trip to Japan.
5/5
Trip date: 2019