Kyushu, Mount Koya, the Japanese Alps & Tokyo (2026)

Day 1: Fukuoka

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival, we´ll provide a transfer to the hotel, where you’ll have free time to relax. In the afternoon, you’ll receive information about the start of the tour.

Day 2: Fukuoka

After breakfast, you will have free time in FUKUOKA, the largest city on the island of Kyushu. Late in the morning, after meeting with our group and guide, we will head to Canal City Hakata, a large shopping complex crossed by an artificial canal that creates an urban oasis with fountain shows every 30 minutes. You will have time to stroll around and have lunch.Next, we will visit Tocho-ji Temple, founded in the year 806, known for its five-story pagoda, its large Buddha statue, and the image of Senju Kannon (the female deity with a thousand arms). Afterwards, you will have free time.

Day 3: Fukuoka - DAZAIFU TENMANGU - NAGASAKI

We’ll depart for DAZAIFU TENMANGU, located near FUKUOKA. This is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and scholarship. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and ponds, it is especially famous for its more than 6,000 plum trees, which bloom spectacularly in late winter.We’ll then continue to NAGASAKI, a city that, like Hiroshima, was devastated by an atomic bomb during World War II. Upon arrival, we’ll stop at Chukagai, Japan’s most famous Chinatown, known for its lively pedestrian street lined with food stalls and restaurants. You’ll have free time for lunch.After lunch, we’ll visit the Atomic Bomb Museum (admission included), followed by the Peace Park, where we’ll admire the powerful sculptures donated by various countries as symbols of hope and peace.In the afternoon, we’ll visit Ōura Church, Japan’s oldest Christian church, dedicated to the 26 Martyrs of Nagasaki. This church beautifully combines Gothic architecture with local elements and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018 as part of the “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region.”Finally, we’ll explore the Dejima area, a reconstructed historical district that was once an artificial island where Dutch merchants lived — for centuries, it served as Japan’s only point of contact with the outside world. (Admission included.)

Day 4: NAGASAKI - UNZEN JIGOKU - KUMAMOTO

We are traveling through volcanic lands. We will depart from NAGASAKI toward the Shimabara Peninsula, known for its volcanic origins and dominated by Mount Unzen. We will stop at UNZEN JIGOKU, a geothermal area with steam vents, bubbling pools of boiling mud, and a strong sulfur smell. We will walk “through the hells,” as this area is popularly known, which in the 17th century was the setting of Christian persecution.We will then continue to SHIMABARA, where we will board a ferry for a crossing of approximately 45 minutes.Upon arrival in KUMAMOTO, we will have free time in the shopping area around the castle to stroll and have lunch. Afterwards, we will visit Kumamoto Castle (admission included), considered one of the three great castles of Japan, famous for its black towers and massive stone walls, some of which are still under reconstruction following damage caused by the 2016 earthquake.We will also visit Suizenji Jojuen (admission included), a landscaped garden featuring miniature recreations of mountains and lakes. Free time afterward in this modern city.

Day 5: KUMAMOTO - ASO VULCANO - YUFUIN - BEPPU

We will set out to visit one of Japan’s most active and spectacular volcanoes: MOUNT ASO, famous for its vast caldera, one of the largest in the world, measuring approximately 25 km in diameter. Inside the caldera are several volcanic peaks, the most active being Mount Nakadake. We will reach the crater by shuttle from the base of the volcano, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and see the steaming sulfur lake.Note: at times, due to volcanic activity and safety reasons, access to Mount Nakadake may be restricted.Afterward, there will be free time in the area where the Aso Volcano Museum is located (optional visit, admission not included), as well as walking trails, restaurants, and shopping areas.We will then continue to YUFUIN, a charming onsen town set in a peaceful valley surrounded by rice fields. Time to enjoy a coffee and take a stroll.Next, we will proceed to BEPPU, a city renowned for its remarkable geothermal activity, with more than 3,000 hot springs. We will visit the “Hells of Beppu,” including admission to Umi Jigoku, known for its striking blue water and beautiful gardens, and Kamado Jigoku, very popular with families for its ponds of varying colors and temperatures, decorated with demon figures.After the visits, transfer to the hotel and free time.

Day 6: BEPPU - USA JINGU - Fukuoka - Osaka

We will depart for USA JINGU, one of the most important Shinto shrines in JAPAN and the main one dedicated to the god Hachiman, the country’s protector deity. It is the head shrine among more than 40,000 Hachiman shrines scattered throughout Japan. Founded in the 8th century, it blends traditional architecture with vast gardens surrounded by nature. We’ll stroll across its iconic red bridge and visit the main pavilions in a photogenic, deeply spiritual setting.We’ll then continue on to FUKUOKA, arriving around lunchtime.From there, we’ll take a high-speed train to OSAKA. In about two and a half hours, we’ll cover nearly 600 kilometers. Upon arrival in Osaka, in the early afternoon, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant, modern metropolis — Japan’s second largest city. In the evening, we’ll take a walk through Dotonbori, a lively district glowing with neon lights and bustling nightlife.Note: The train journey will be unaccompanied by the guide. Your guide will provide you with all necessary information and train tickets in advance. Upon arrival in Osaka, you’ll have a transfer waiting to take you to your hotel.

Day 7: Osaka - Mount Koya

At 11:30 a.m., we’ll depart from the city and head to the sacred Mount Koya, the most important center of Shingon Buddhism in JAPAN. This magical pilgrimage site is home to 120 temples and monasteries. Here, we’ll visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a deeply spiritual place and vast cemetery nestled in nature, with more than 200,000 graves. We’ll also explore the Kongobuji Temple, originally built in 1593.Tonight, we’ll stay in a Buddhist monastery, where the monks will guide us through a Zen meditation practice (Ajikan). A vegetarian dinner will be included. If you wish, you can also attend the religious ceremony at the temple before breakfast.Notes: -During winter, due to earlier nightfall, there won’t be enough time to visit the interior of Kongobuji Temple.-Staying in the monastery is considered a highly enriching experience. The rooms are simple, without private bathrooms, and follow traditional Japanese style with tatami mats. Bathrooms are shared.-We cannot guarantee meditation sessions during busy tourist periods. -Accommodation in the temples on Mount Koya is limited, and in some cases, we may arrange for groups to stay in nearby hotels instead (half board provided).

Day 8: Mount Koya - Kyoto

We’ll start the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple. Early in the morning, we’ll depart for Kyoto, a city that served as Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and was home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably spared from bombings during World War II, Kyoto retains its extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage. The city is also famous as the site where the Kyoto Protocol on greenhouse gas emissions was signed in 1997.Our visit will take us to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll admire the magnificent Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, explore the historic Imperial Palace, and marvel at the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” with its stunning gardens.You’ll have free time to explore before we visit Gion, a bustling traditional district renowned for its Geisha culture. Here, you’ll have additional free time to soak in the unique atmosphere.Note: If you’ve already visited Kyoto as part of your tour, our guide will provide tips and recommendations to help you explore other parts of the city on your own.

Day 9: Kyoto - Tsumago - Matsumoto - Nagano

We’ll set out for Tsumago, enjoying the charming countryside scenery along the way. This small village, known for its wooden houses, is considered one of the prettiest places in Japan. You’ll have free time to explore, and lunch will be included. Next, we’ll continue to Matsumoto, a lively tourist city where we’ll visit the impressive 16th-century castle, famously known as the “The Crow.” Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore this bustling city at your own pace. Our journey will then take us to Nagano, where we’ll spend the night

Day 10: Nagano - Monkey Park - Kusatsu - Ikaho

In NAGANO, we’ll visit Zenko-ji Temple, a famous pilgrimage site that houses Japan’s first Buddhist image. Our travelers will also take part in the Gomakuyo ceremony, a traditional ritual meant to attract good fortune.Afterwards, we’ll venture into the stunning Japanese Alps, traveling through majestic mountain scenery to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. We’ll take a walk through the forested trails, rivers, and hot springs where colonies of Japanese macaques live and bathe in the warm waters.We’ll then continue through beautiful high-mountain landscapes (reaching an altitude of 2,172 meters / 7,126 feet) and pass by semi-active volcanoes. Our next stop is KUSATSU, a charming hot-spring town whose lively central square is full of activity. We’ll take a pleasant stroll through the city park, which features open-air onsen (hot springs). Free time for lunch.Our journey continues to IKAHO, another picturesque hot-spring town. We’ll stroll through its old center, famous for its traditional stone stairways. We’ll stay overnight in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where we recommend enjoying the hot-spring baths. Traditional Japanese dinner included.Note: In autumn, depending on the availability of food in the mountains, the movement of the monkeys can be unpredictable. If the macaques do not come down to the park, it may be closed. The visit to Kusatsu may also be canceled due to weather conditions from November to April.

Day 11: Ikaho - Nikko - Tokyo

We’ll continue our journey to Nikko, a fantastic town where we’ll visit the impressive Nikko-Toshogu Temple, known for its famous “room with the sound of a dragon.” We’ll also explore the Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a serene and awe-inspiring site. Afterward, we’ll take a stroll along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues silently watch over the riverbanks. You’ll have free time to explore the town center before we head back to Tokyo, arriving at approximately 06:30 p.m.

Day 12: Tokyo

In the morning, we’ll take a long guided tour—about five hours—through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.We’ll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You’ll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, said to be the busiest intersection in the world. Then we’ll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.We’ll continue our tour by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue, explore the most scenic part of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, and stop to visit the famous Nijubashi Bridge.We’ll drive through AKIHABARA, the “Electric City,” known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture. Then we’ll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included), Japan’s tallest structure, where we’ll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.We’ll end our visit in ASAKUSA, where we’ll explore Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel.6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.

Day 13: Tokyo

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.