Overview
Hidden Japan: Sado Island, Nara & Kyoto
Asia
10 days
9 nights
12 people
Easy
History & Culture
Prepare for an unforgettable journey through Japan, where ancient traditions and striking modernity blend perfectly together! Explore the atmospheric streets of Asakusa, the misty mountains of Nikko, and the historic sites of Niigata and Sado Island. Dive into the thrilling world of sumo wrestling, stroll through tranquil bamboo forests, and experience the rhythmic beats of taiko drumming. From fantastic food and fragrant sake, to mastering calligraphy and understanding the art of the kimono, your Japan adventure aims to give you a thrilling introduction to all things Japan. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the Land of the Rising Sun like never before!
Hidden Wonder: Enjoy a Sado Milk ice cream made by one of the 10 specially certified dairy farmers on the island.
Travel with Purpose: Visit the remote Sado Island, where a variety of distinct local cultural traditions are being preserved.
Global Community: Enjoy lunch with a former sumo champion while diving into the world of sumo wrestling.
Looking for 2024 dates? Click here!
Highlights
- Take in Japan’s breathtaking natural scenery, from stunning waterfalls to sprawling rice paddies.
- Meet the highly-skilled metalworking artisans of Tsubame-Sanjo and watch them create their trademark intricate tools and cutlery.
- Stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan and bathe in its hot springs.
- Visit the remote Sado Island which preserves many cultural traditions.
- Immerse yourself in Niigata’s Geisha culture and experience a very special live performance.
- Dive into the world of sumo wrestling and enjoy lunch with a former sumo champion.
- Enjoy a Sado Milk ice cream made by one of the 10 specially certified dairy farmers on the island.
Explore a different side of Japan.
Day 1
Welcome to Tokyo!
Konnichiwa! Hop on a private transfer to your Tokyo hotel, located in the atmospheric old Tokyo neighborhood of Asakusa, known for its traditional craft shops and street-food stalls and its trendy upscale dining scene by the waterfront. We’ll gather later this afternoon in the hotel lobby for an orientation talk before heading out for a sumptuous welcome dinner to celebrate the beginning of your once-in-a-lifetime Japanese adventure.
Welcome to Tokyo!
Konnichiwa! Hop on a private transfer to your Tokyo hotel, located in the atmospheric old Tokyo neighborhood of Asakusa, known for its traditional craft shops and street-food stalls and its trendy upscale dining scene by the waterfront. We’ll gather later this afternoon in the hotel lobby for an orientation talk before heading out for a sumptuous welcome dinner to celebrate the beginning of your once-in-a-lifetime Japanese adventure.
-
Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku or similar, Tokyo
-
Welcome Dinner
-
Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku or similar, Tokyo
-
Welcome Dinner
Day 2
Flavors of Nikko
Depart Tokyo this morning by express train to the city of Nikko. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, scenic slopes, national park, hot springs, and picturesque lakes and waterfalls, Nikko is the perfect place to begin our deep dive into Japanese culture. You'll start at the colorful Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu, a famous Shogun from the 17th century Edo Period. Enjoy some free time exploring Nikko then meet up with the rest of your group for a flavor-packed yuba-themed feast. Yuba is a traditional Nikko delicacy, made by skimming soy milk skin while it’s still boiling. It's served raw, fried, or in dishes like yuba udon. Delicious or as the Japanese would say, “oishii!”
Flavors of Nikko
Depart Tokyo this morning by express train to the city of Nikko. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, scenic slopes, national park, hot springs, and picturesque lakes and waterfalls, Nikko is the perfect place to begin our deep dive into Japanese culture. You'll start at the colorful Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu, a famous Shogun from the 17th century Edo Period. Enjoy some free time exploring Nikko then meet up with the rest of your group for a flavor-packed yuba-themed feast. Yuba is a traditional Nikko delicacy, made by skimming soy milk skin while it’s still boiling. It's served raw, fried, or in dishes like yuba udon. Delicious or as the Japanese would say, “oishii!”
-
Fairfield Marriott, or similar, Nikko
-
Breakfast, Dinner
-
Fairfield Marriott, or similar, Nikko
-
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3
Waterfalls, Lakes & Hot Springs
Set off early to the majestic Kegon Falls just outside Nikko, renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty and fed by Lake Chuzenji's crystal-clear waters. Following this, we'll take a brief hike to admire Fukiware Falls before enjoying lunch with a view. Gaze in wonder at the serene landscapes of Niigata Prefecture, as we head for a visit to Yahiko Shrine, a 2,000 year old place of worship known for bringing blessings in marriage. Your day concludes with a quintessentially Japanese experience; a stay in a traditional Ryokan. Relax in rejuvenating hot spring baths as you embrace the essence of Japanese hospitality and culture.
Waterfalls, Lakes & Hot Springs
Set off early to the majestic Kegon Falls just outside Nikko, renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty and fed by Lake Chuzenji's crystal-clear waters. Following this, we'll take a brief hike to admire Fukiware Falls before enjoying lunch with a view. Gaze in wonder at the serene landscapes of Niigata Prefecture, as we head for a visit to Yahiko Shrine, a 2,000 year old place of worship known for bringing blessings in marriage. Your day concludes with a quintessentially Japanese experience; a stay in a traditional Ryokan. Relax in rejuvenating hot spring baths as you embrace the essence of Japanese hospitality and culture.
-
Yumotoya Ryokan or similar, Niigata
-
Breakfast, Dinner
-
Yumotoya Ryokan or similar, Niigata
-
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
Niigata Artisans & Geisha
This morning you will visit the studios of skilled ateliers and artisans in the metalworking area of Tsubame-Sanjo, who specialize in producing ornate cutlery and copperware. After some free time for solo exploration, you will be treated to a special geisha performance. In the Edo period, Niigata contributed to the prosperity of Japan by sending food to the Kansai region in the southwest. As thanks, Kyoto is said to have sent "culture" back in return, which included geisha. A private sake brewery tour and tasting is up next before you catch a scenic ferry ride to Sado, Japan’s sixth-largest island.
Niigata Artisans & Geisha
This morning you will visit the studios of skilled ateliers and artisans in the metalworking area of Tsubame-Sanjo, who specialize in producing ornate cutlery and copperware. After some free time for solo exploration, you will be treated to a special geisha performance. In the Edo period, Niigata contributed to the prosperity of Japan by sending food to the Kansai region in the southwest. As thanks, Kyoto is said to have sent "culture" back in return, which included geisha. A private sake brewery tour and tasting is up next before you catch a scenic ferry ride to Sado, Japan’s sixth-largest island.
-
Azuma Hotel or similar, Sado Island
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
Azuma Hotel or similar, Sado Island
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Ghostly Villages & Tub Boat Adventures
Embark on a journey through Sado Island's storied past today, where exiled political dissidents found sanctuary and resourceful pioneers dug for gold. Enjoy a rare opportunity to witness a mesmerizing outdoor performance of Noh, a classical Japanese dance-drama. Then visit the ghostly shipbuilding village of Shukunegi, a testament to Sado's prosperous past during the 17th-century gold rush, now preserved in eerie tranquility. Soak up the spooky atmosphere as you stroll among over 100 deserted houses, each whispering tales of a bygone era. Finally, embrace the thrill of sailing in an iconic Tarai Bune, or "tub boat," a unique maritime tradition immortalized in Studio Ghibli's masterpiece ‘Spirited Away.’
Ghostly Villages & Tub Boat Adventures
Embark on a journey through Sado Island's storied past today, where exiled political dissidents found sanctuary and resourceful pioneers dug for gold. Enjoy a rare opportunity to witness a mesmerizing outdoor performance of Noh, a classical Japanese dance-drama. Then visit the ghostly shipbuilding village of Shukunegi, a testament to Sado's prosperous past during the 17th-century gold rush, now preserved in eerie tranquility. Soak up the spooky atmosphere as you stroll among over 100 deserted houses, each whispering tales of a bygone era. Finally, embrace the thrill of sailing in an iconic Tarai Bune, or "tub boat," a unique maritime tradition immortalized in Studio Ghibli's masterpiece ‘Spirited Away.’
-
Azuma Hotel or similar, Sado Island
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
Azuma Hotel or similar, Sado Island
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Taiko Drums and Gold Mines
Experience the thunderous beats of Sado's famed taiko drummers, led by the renowned Kodo group, in a morning drumming session. Then, journey to Aikawa, once the heart of Sado's 17th-century gold rush, the wealth of which powered the mighty Tokugawa Shogunate. Explore the historic gold mine, where thousands sought fortune and the Edo homeless toiled. Walk the dim tunnels, gaining insight into the miners' harsh reality, and encounter lifelike animatronic miners peering from the shadows, bringing the history of the island to life.
Taiko Drums and Gold Mines
Experience the thunderous beats of Sado's famed taiko drummers, led by the renowned Kodo group, in a morning drumming session. Then, journey to Aikawa, once the heart of Sado's 17th-century gold rush, the wealth of which powered the mighty Tokugawa Shogunate. Explore the historic gold mine, where thousands sought fortune and the Edo homeless toiled. Walk the dim tunnels, gaining insight into the miners' harsh reality, and encounter lifelike animatronic miners peering from the shadows, bringing the history of the island to life.
-
Azuma Hotel or similar, Sado Island
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
Azuma Hotel or similar, Sado Island
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
From Niigata to Nara
Before bidding farewell to Niigata, let's stretch our legs with a leisurely stroll around Mount Donden, affectionately known as "roundtop," famed for its wild grasses and abundant flowers that grow across its slopes. Afterwards, we'll set sail back to the mainland and catch a flight from Niigata Airport to Osaka. Upon touchdown in Osaka, hop into your awaiting carriage bound for Nara, where you'll stay for two nights in a charmingly refurbished soy sauce warehouse, steeped in history and flavor.
From Niigata to Nara
Before bidding farewell to Niigata, let's stretch our legs with a leisurely stroll around Mount Donden, affectionately known as "roundtop," famed for its wild grasses and abundant flowers that grow across its slopes. Afterwards, we'll set sail back to the mainland and catch a flight from Niigata Airport to Osaka. Upon touchdown in Osaka, hop into your awaiting carriage bound for Nara, where you'll stay for two nights in a charmingly refurbished soy sauce warehouse, steeped in history and flavor.
-
Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Soy Source Hotel or similar, Nara
-
Breakfast
-
Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Soy Source Hotel or similar, Nara
-
Breakfast
Day 8
Exploring Nara: Sumo Wrestlers & Temples
Get ready for a day packed with sumo-sized fun in Nara, the birthplace of Sumo! Start the day with a visit to Kehayaza Sumo stable, where you'll learn the ropes of Sumo wrestling with a demonstration, and even try your hand at grappling with a real Sumo wrestler. Refuel with a hearty lunch of Chanko Nabe, the traditional dish of Sumo wrestlers, shared with a retired competitor. Then, it's off to explore the iconic Todaiji Temple and stroll through Nara Park, where you can mingle with the famously friendly deer. Finally, get hands-on with a unique experience making Nara Sumi Ink and mastering the art of Calligraphy.
Exploring Nara: Sumo Wrestlers & Temples
Get ready for a day packed with sumo-sized fun in Nara, the birthplace of Sumo! Start the day with a visit to Kehayaza Sumo stable, where you'll learn the ropes of Sumo wrestling with a demonstration, and even try your hand at grappling with a real Sumo wrestler. Refuel with a hearty lunch of Chanko Nabe, the traditional dish of Sumo wrestlers, shared with a retired competitor. Then, it's off to explore the iconic Todaiji Temple and stroll through Nara Park, where you can mingle with the famously friendly deer. Finally, get hands-on with a unique experience making Nara Sumi Ink and mastering the art of Calligraphy.
-
Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Soy Source Hotel or similar, Nara
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Soy Source Hotel or similar, Nara
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9
Best of Japan: Bamboo, Zen & Kimonos
Start your penultimate day in Japan with a peaceful walk through the dream-like Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Next, visit Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a Shojin Ryori lunch, a traditional Zen Buddhist meal that emphasizes simplicity and natural ingredients. Spend the afternoon marveling at the stunning Golden Pavilion of Kinkakuji Temple, and exploring the artistry of kimono-making at a textile studio, revealing the artistry behind Japan's most iconic garment. A traditional Japanese dinner this evening offers the chance to celebrate the unforgettable memories and connections you’ve made over the last nine days.
Best of Japan: Bamboo, Zen & Kimonos
Start your penultimate day in Japan with a peaceful walk through the dream-like Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Next, visit Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a Shojin Ryori lunch, a traditional Zen Buddhist meal that emphasizes simplicity and natural ingredients. Spend the afternoon marveling at the stunning Golden Pavilion of Kinkakuji Temple, and exploring the artistry of kimono-making at a textile studio, revealing the artistry behind Japan's most iconic garment. A traditional Japanese dinner this evening offers the chance to celebrate the unforgettable memories and connections you’ve made over the last nine days.
-
Century Hotel or similar, Kyoto
-
Breakfast, Dinner
-
Century Hotel or similar, Kyoto
-
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10
Sayonara!
After nearly a week of exploring some of Japan’s many wonders, hopping from temple to waterfall to ghost village to tub boat, it’s time to bid farewell to this fascinating region and the friends we’ve made along the way. If you decide to extend your trip, check out Atlas Obscura’s Guide to Japan for more itinerary inspiration. Sayonara, but not goodbye. Until our next adventure!
Sayonara!
After nearly a week of exploring some of Japan’s many wonders, hopping from temple to waterfall to ghost village to tub boat, it’s time to bid farewell to this fascinating region and the friends we’ve made along the way. If you decide to extend your trip, check out Atlas Obscura’s Guide to Japan for more itinerary inspiration. Sayonara, but not goodbye. Until our next adventure!
-
Breakfast
-
Breakfast
What is included?
-
Accommodations throughout the trip.
-
Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
-
Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including airport transfers.
-
Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
-
AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
-
Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
-
Most gratuities (not including the AO Trip Leader).
What is not included?
-
Flights to and from destination.
-
Pre/Post trip accommodations.
-
Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
-
Visas and passport fees.
-
Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
-
AO Trip Leader tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling Solo?
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $1,950 USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling Solo?
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $1,950 USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Activity Level
Travelers should feel comfortable walking two to three miles each day, mainly on flat and even surfaces, as well as occasional stairs.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 4 p.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 10. Tokyo International Airport (HND) connects to a range of flight hubs in Asia and Europe. The best flight connections to Tokyo are offered by Japan Airlines and American Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided on the scheduled arrival tour dates, or if pre trip arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura. Departure transfers are not included in the trip price.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 4 p.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 10. Tokyo International Airport (HND) connects to a range of flight hubs in Asia and Europe. The best flight connections to Tokyo are offered by Japan Airlines and American Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided on the scheduled arrival tour dates, or if pre trip arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura. Departure transfers are not included in the trip price.
Luggage Restrictions
We will be taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) in our itinerary, which has luggage size restrictions. Only luggage up to 160cm (L+W+H) will be permitted on the train. Larger suitcases can be shipped from our Tokyo hotel to your next accommodation if necessary, however it’s important to keep this in mind when packing for your trip.
Luggage Restrictions
We will be taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) in our itinerary, which has luggage size restrictions. Only luggage up to 160cm (L+W+H) will be permitted on the train. Larger suitcases can be shipped from our Tokyo hotel to your next accommodation if necessary, however it’s important to keep this in mind when packing for your trip.
Accommodations
One night will be in a Japanese-style room in a traditional ryokan with on-site onsen, where bedding is a comfortable futon mattress on the floor.
Accommodations
One night will be in a Japanese-style room in a traditional ryokan with on-site onsen, where bedding is a comfortable futon mattress on the floor.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Send us a
You might like these
Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Hidden Japan: Sado Island, Nara & Kyoto? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 646-961-4857
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Hidden Japan: Sado Island, Nara & Kyoto? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.