Small Group Tours of Japan
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
Cherry Blossom Tours
Departs from late February to April
Winter Tours
Departs from late December to February
Garden & Art Tours
Departs all year round
Food Tours
Departs all year round
Walking Tours
Departs in February and October
Remote Tours
Departs all year round
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.
We would have no hesitation recommending Journey to the East and the Food Tour of Hokkaido Japan. The trip was very high quality and exceeded our expectations – we were expecting great food and the dinners delivered on that, and the lunches were a very welcome surprise providing varied new experiences.
The focus on small farms and local food providers was excellent.
David Brant
VIC, Australia
The Food Tour of Hokkaido Japan was both relaxing and engaging from start to finish. The food, accommodations, activities, and guide were all superb. We would not hesitate to take another tour with Journey to the East.
Elaine Cole
USA
The Journey to the East Food Tour of Hokkaido was an exceptional trip. Well worth doing. This is the second JttE tour I have been on, the previous Food Tour of Kyushu was similarly outstanding. These small group tours are a must for those who like Japanese food and want to get a more informed insight into the life of ordinary Japanese people. I thoroughly recommend them to all.
Graeme Seaton
Australia
Journey to the East has put a huge amount of research into providing a true ‘holiday of a lifetime’ experience with no stone unturned to ensure their clients dreams are fulfilled. A 11 out 10.
Peter Canham
New Zealand
What a phenomenal tour of the northern Japan countryside,
where we enjoyed exceptional food and meeting the local
people who are passionate about what they do. We got a true
flavor of country living and the farm-to-table foods of the
area. Thank you, JttE!!!!
Teresa & Curt Flory
USA
Fantastic Foodie Tour! A great trip with a variety of tastes, cuisine experiences and restaurant styles. Everything from a beach BBQ to a Michelin Star restaurant. Visits to primary producers, distillers and brewers showcase the history and culture of food and beverage production. These included short presentations, Q&A, hands on activities and opportunities to taste and purchase. I thoroughly recommend this abundant tour but my advice is “pace yourself”.