Spring Odyssey Through Japan
Spring‑time odyssey across Japan, where tranquil hot‑springs meet towering peaks and vibrant cityscapes, creating a contrast of serenity and energy. You’ll unwind in Hakone’s volcanic valleys, gaze at Mt. Fuji over Lake Kawaguchi, explore Kyoto’s historic temples and gardens, then dive into Tokyo’s buzzing Shibuya district and Miyashita Park. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll savor seasonal cuisine, soak in onsen waters, and return home with a blend of peaceful reflection and exhilarating urban memories.
Places you'll stay
Hakone
Hakone is a town located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and views of Mount Fuji. It serves as a popular retreat for both locals and tourists seeking a respite from the bustling city life of Tokyo, which lies about 80 kilometers to the east.
Fujikawaguchiko
Fujikawaguchiko is a picturesque town located at the northern base of Mount Fuji, known for its stunning natural landscapes and cultural richness. It serves as a popular gateway for those seeking to explore the iconic mountain and its surrounding areas.
Kyoto
Kyoto is a city located in the Kansai region on the island of Honshu, renowned for its rich history and preserved cultural heritage. Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto now serves as a vibrant city that harmoniously blends traditional Japanese culture with modern advancements. Its climate varies from hot summers to cold winters with a distinct rainy season during June and July.
Shibuya (Tokyo)
Shibuya is a bustling district in Tokyo, Japan known for its vibrant city life, iconic pedestrian scramble crossing, and as a hub for youth culture and fashion. It serves as a major commercial and business center, offering a dynamic blend of modernity and tradition.
Moments to look forward to
The Hakone Open-Air Museum
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is Japan's first open-air museum, having opened in 1969. It is located in the scenic town of Hakone, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The museum spans approximately 70,000 square meters and features an extensive collection of sculptures and artwork displayed in harmony with its natural surroundings.
Nijō Castle
Nijō Castle, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a historic site that provides a glimpse into the country's rich past. Originally built in 1603 as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period, the castle showcases exquisite architecture and important cultural heritage.
Tetsugaku No Michi
Tetsugaku No Michi, also known as the Philosopher’s Path, is a renowned pedestrian pathway located in the city of Kyoto. It stretches approximately two kilometers and follows a cherry-tree-lined canal, offering an ideal setting for reflective walks. Named after the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who is said to have used the route for his daily meditation, it is a peaceful spot frequented by both locals and tourists.
Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera is a renowned Buddhist temple located in the eastern part of Kyoto. Established in the late 8th century, it is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site and is frequented by both locals and international visitors. The name Kiyomizu-dera translates to "Pure Water Temple," derived from the Otowa Waterfall on the site.
Wazuka Tea Plantation
Wazuka Tea Plantation is located in the town of Wazuka, known for its picturesque landscapes and high-quality tea production. This area is renowned for its rich history in tea cultivation, with tea farming practices dating back over 800 years. The plantation is situated in the Kyoto Prefecture, making it an ideal spot for visitors interested in both nature and tea culture.
Sanjūsangendō Temple
Sanjūsangendō Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, renowned for its impressive architecture and artistic heritage. The temple, officially known as Rengeō-in, is famous for its long hall, which extends approximately 120 meters, making it the longest wooden structure in Japan. It was originally built in 1164 and later reconstructed in 1266 after being destroyed by fire.
TSUKIJI FISH MARKET
Tsukiji Fish Market in Japan, once the world's largest wholesale fish and seafood market, continues to hold cultural significance despite the relocation of its inner wholesale operations to Toyosu in 2018. The outer market still thrives as a bustling hub, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant food culture of Tokyo with its array of fresh seafood and culinary delights.
teamlab planets
teamLab Planets, located in Tokyo, is a digital art museum that offers an immersive and interactive art experience. It is part of the teamLab collective, known for incorporating the latest technology to blend art, science, and nature in their installations.
animate Ikebukuro main store
Animate Ikebukuro main store is a flagship location of the animate chain, specializing in anime, manga, and related merchandise. Situated in the Ikebukuro district of Tokyo, it serves as a central hub for anime enthusiasts and is one of the largest stores of its kind in the city, offering a wide range of products and experiences for fans of Japanese pop culture.
Lake Kawaguchi
Lake Kawaguchi is the second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, located in the Yamanashi Prefecture at the northern base of Mount Fuji. This lake is renowned for its picturesque views of the iconic mountain and serves as a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking natural beauty and recreational activities.
Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
The Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway is a popular attraction located near Lake Kawaguchi, offering visitors an accessible way to enjoy scenic views of the iconic Mount Fuji. Positioned in the Fuji Five Lakes region, the ropeway transports passengers from the lakeside to an observation point on Mount Tenjo, providing a new perspective on the surrounding landscape.
Itchiku Kubota Art Museum
The Itchiku Kubota Art Museum is located near the scenic shores of Lake Kawaguchi in Japan, nestled against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. This museum, dedicated to the renowned textile artist Itchiku Kubota, showcases his contributions to the revival of the traditional Tsujigahana technique, used to create intricate kimonos.
Pontocho Alley
Pontocho Alley is a narrow, historic street located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, known for its traditional architecture and vibrant cultural atmosphere. It runs parallel to the Kamo River, providing visitors with a glimpse into the city's rich past while offering a serene escape from the bustling urban environment.
Golden Pavilion
The Golden Pavilion, also known as Kinkaku-ji, is a renowned Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto. This iconic structure, covered in brilliant gold leaf, is one of the most recognized and visited landmarks in the region, drawing visitors for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Kasagi
Kasagi is a small town located in the southern part of Kyoto Prefecture. Known for its scenic landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Kasagi provides a quiet retreat away from the bustling cities of the region.
Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro is a bustling commercial and entertainment district located in the northwestern part of Tokyo. Known for its vibrant energy and variety of attractions, it is a significant hub for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. With a mix of modern skyscrapers and cozy local streets, it offers a unique urban landscape to explore.
Harajuku
Harajuku is a vibrant district located in Tokyo, known for its unique blend of traditional and modern Japanese culture. Situated between Shinjuku and Shibuya, it has gained international fame for its eclectic street fashion, bustling streets, and youthful energy.
Capybara Cafe Moffu
Capybara Cafe Moffu, Japan is a specialty café located in the town of Moffu that combines a casual dining environment with a resident population of capybaras, allowing guests to observe the animals while they enjoy meals and beverages.
Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands
Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands, located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a diverse array of wetland ecosystems. Established in 1976, the garden spans approximately 2.8 hectares and is dedicated to the conservation and study of marshland species native to various regions of Japan, including alpine, coastal, and subarctic areas.
Hakone Museum of Art
Hakone Museum of Art is a notable cultural institution situated in the scenic region of Gora within Hakone. Established in 1952 by Mokichi Okada, the museum specializes in Japanese ceramics, with a particular focus on pieces from prehistoric times through the Edo Period. The museum not only displays a rich collection but also integrates the natural and cultural beauty of its surroundings.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan, standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). It is an iconic symbol of the country and is located on Honshu Island, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Tokyo. This nearly perfectly symmetrical cone is an active stratovolcano, which attracts visitors for its stunning natural beauty and significance.
Oishi Park
Oishi Park, Japan is a municipal green space situated on the western shore of Lake Biwa in the city of Ōtsu, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, Japan is the principal shrine of the Fuji Sengen network located at the northern base of Mount Fuji. It was founded in the early 9th century and serves as a focal point for worship of the mountain deity Konohanasakuya‑hime.
B-PUMP Ogikubo
B-PUMP Ogikubo and Shop is a dedicated bouldering gym and related retail outlet located in the Suginami ward of Tokyo. Known for its indoor climbing facilities, it attracts both local enthusiasts and international visitors who are interested in rock climbing and seeking engaging physical activities.
Incredible Stays
Hotel Recommendation #1
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Hotel Recommendation #2
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Hotel Recommendation #3
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Hotel Recommendation #4
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Inclusions
All listed hotels and taxes
All private transfers, bullet trains, and local support as described
JTrain Railpasses
All guided activities and admissions listed
Exclusions
International flights
Unlisted meals / personal expenses
Optional activities
Travel insurance
Tips (optional in Japan, but guides appreciate it for private days)
Insider-led Japan Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Japan Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
