Japan Tours: Travel Guide To Luxury Holidays and Places to Visit

Japan is a destination that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern luxury, making it a perfect choice for discerning travellers. In this extensive guide to luxury Japan tours we go beyond sightseeing so you experience the very best of Japan. We’ll explore some of the most exclusive accommodations in five-star hotels and ryokans to private guided tours of iconic landmarks. Every detail comes together in this incredible companion resource that showcases only the very best of Japan.

Must-See Places

Japan is known for its incredible mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern marvels. Therefore, we recommend you add Tokyo, Hiroshima, Osaka, Miyajima, Kyoto, Hokkaido, Mt. Fuji, Kinosaki Onsen, Nara and Yamanashi to your tour of Japan. So without further ado here are just some of the must-see places and attractions you’ll want to visit;

Cherry Blossom Viewing

Cherry blossom season is one of Japan’s most iconic experiences. However, peak bloom can be elusive, personalised itineraries are the best way to experience this natural wonder in style.

• Kyoto – Maruyama Park: stunning views and private guided tours of nearby temples like Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera. Philosopher’s Path: Scenic, tree-lined path along the canal take a private walking tour or a serene boat ride to view the blossoms from the water.
• Tokyo – Shinjuku Gyoen: A sprawling garden in the heart of Tokyo with over 1,000 cherry trees. Private garden tour features traditional Japanese landscaping and teahouses. Chidorigafuchi: Located near the Imperial Palace, a tree-lined moat with cherry blossoms. Private rowboat rental available to view the blossoms.
• Hakone – Gora Park : Known for its stunning cherry blossoms against a backdrop of beautiful natural scenery. Stay at a luxury ryokan to combine cherry blossom viewing with hot spring relaxation. Lake Ashi: Enjoy cherry blossoms with Mount Fuji as a backdrop. Private boat tours or lakeside dining are available.
• Osaka – Osaka Castle Park: Filled with over 3,000 cherry trees, making it a spectacular place for Hanami. Afterward, take a private guided tour through the castle and its park, followed by a gourmet picnic.
• Hokkaido – Matsumae Park: Located in the northernmost region of Japan, Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms bloom in late April to early May. The park features over 10,000 cherry trees. Private excursions to nearby hot springs and stays in upscale ryokans add an extra layer of comfort.
• Kanazawa – Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens—stunning during cherry blossom season. Guided tours that delve into the garden’s history. Personalised photography sessions available.

Hot Springs

A visit to Japan isn’t complete without relaxing in an onsen. Accordingly, luxury ryokans in places like Hakone and Kinosaki Onsen offer serene hot spring escapes with private baths and unparalleled service.

• Hakone – Gora Kadan: A former imperial villa turned into a luxurious ryokan, Gora Kadan offers modern elegance with traditional Japanese hospitality. Guests enjoy private onsen baths, stunning garden views, and kaiseki dining in an exclusive, serene setting.
• Kowakien Ten-yu: Luxury ryokan in Hakone features rooms with private open-air hot springs, stunning mountain views and Japanese-Western fusion dining. It offers a seamless blend of relaxation and natural beauty.
• Kinosaki – Nishimuraya Honkan: A historical ryokan in Kinosaki Onsen, Nishimuraya Honkan offers traditional elegance with modern comforts. Guests enjoy private onsen baths, beautifully landscaped gardens, and multi-course kaiseki meals, all delivered with impeccable service.
• Nishimuraya Hotel Shogetsutei: Located in a tranquil forest, this luxury ryokan combines traditional Japanese design with contemporary luxury. It offers private onsen, spacious rooms, and gourmet dining, making it perfect for a serene and indulgent onsen retreat.

For those wanting to delve further into this incredibly beneficial and satisfying Japanese bathing tradition, we recommend checking out our guide to the best onsens in Japan.

Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea offer magical experiences for travellers of all ages in a way that makes them truly special. Enjoy VIP access, exclusive guided tours, and priority entry to the most popular attractions. Tokyo Disneyland captures the classic Disney magic, while DisneySea, offers a nautical theme with breathtaking design and thrilling rides. Luxury travellers, enjoy personalised itineraries, private dining, and premium seating for parades by arrangement to these world-renowned parks.

Tokyo Tower & Skytree

Tokyo Tower is a 333-metre structure inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. It also features restaurants and shops. Tokyo Skytree, standing at 634 metres, is the tallest structure in Japan, with observation decks providing breathtaking views of Tokyo. It also includes shopping, dining, and an aquarium at its base.

Bullet Train (Shinkansen)

The Shinkansen, or Bullet Train, is Japan’s high-speed rail network, reaching speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph). It connects major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, offering a fast, efficient, and comfortable travel experience. First-class “Green Car" and premium “Gran Class" options provide added luxury and comfort for travellers.

Snow Monkey Park

Notably, Snow Monkey Park, officially known as Jigokudani Monkey Park, located in Nagano Prefecture and famous for its population of wild Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys. The snow monkeys bathe in the park’s natural hot springs, especially during the winter months. The park offers visitors the chance to observe the monkeys up close in their natural habitat.

Things to Do

Japan’s rich culture and world-class cuisine offer the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. All activities are carefully curated to provide you with exclusive and unforgettable experiences.

Luxury Rail Tours

Experience Japan in comfort and style with first-class rail journeys aboard the iconic Shinkansen and Seven Stars in Kyushu. The Shinkansen, known for its speed and efficiency, offers premium Green Car and Gran Class seating. Experience it’s spacious cabins and attentive service as you travel between cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Alternatively, for an even more exclusive experience, the Seven Stars in Kyushu delivers a luxurious, multi-day journey through Kyushu. See Kyushu’s scenic landscapes in private cabin comfort and gourmet dining. Ask about their curated excursions. Both options ensure breathtaking views, impeccable service, and a travel experience that is both seamless and indulgent.

Exclusive Walking Tours

Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich history and vibrant culture with one of many private walking tours designed for luxury travellers. Explore Kyoto’s famous Higashiyama District, home to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and charming, narrow streets lined with traditional teahouses. In Tokyo, visit the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market for an exclusive culinary tour. Or stroll through the historic Asakusa district, home to the renowned Senso-ji Temple.

Gain insider access to hidden gems, secret gardens, and lesser-known temples, while avoiding the crowds with expert personal guides. Each one of these bespoke walking tours provide you with a deeper connection to Japan’s heritage.

Coach Tours

• Abercrombie & Kent: offers bespoke, small-group luxury tours of Japan, including first-class coach transport, equipped with modern amenities. Moreover, each tour focuses on exclusive experiences, such as private tea ceremonies, guided temple and gardens tours, and Michelin-starred dining.
• Tauck: provides upscale, all-inclusive tours through Japan with a focus on cultural immersion and comfort. Their luxury coach tours include visits to top destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Enjoy exclusive experiences like a private geisha performance and a visit to the iconic Mt. Fuji.
• Artisans of Leisure: Tailor-made, luxury journeys through Japan, combining the convenience of coach travel with personalised, high-end experiences. Their tours focus on luxury accommodations, private tours of cultural sites, and curated experiences. Enjoy exclusive access to traditional art performances and sake tasting.

• Inside Japan Tours: Offers high-end, small-group tours designed for luxury travellers. While not solely coach-based, they provide deluxe transportation, often using private vehicles for small groups. These tours focus on comfort, privacy, and access to off-the-beaten-path locations with personalised guides.
• APT: APT coach tours offer travellers an enriching, comfortable journey through Japan’s iconic destinations. Passengers experience the culture, history, and beauty of cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Expert guides, premium accommodations, and modern, well-appointed coaches. APT ensures comfort and an immersive, worry-free exploration of Japan’s vibrant landscapes and heritage.

Sake Tasting and Noodle Making

Elevate your culinary experience in Japan with exclusive sake tastings and intimate, hands-on cooking classes led by expert chefs. Visit renowned sake breweries such as Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum in Kyoto or Dassai Brewery in Yamaguchi. These private tastings reveal the intricacies of Japan’s iconic rice wine.

For a truly unique culinary experience, join a master chef in a noodle-making class in Tokyo or Sapporo. Learn to create traditional soba or ramen from scratch. Indulge in the finest local flavours, from delicate sashimi in coastal towns to kaiseki, Japan’s exquisite multi-course meal, deepening your appreciation for Japan’s world-renowned cuisine.

Classic Japan Experiences

Geisha Culture

Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural heritage with experiences designed exclusively for luxury travellers. Participate in a private tea ceremony at a traditional tea house in Kyoto’s Gion District, a historic area known for its well-preserved architecture and ties to the geisha culture. For a rare glimpse into this centuries-old art form, enjoy an exclusive geisha performance in Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya District or at a private dinner in Kyoto. These performances, featuring graceful dances, traditional music, and conversations with geisha, offer a window into Japan’s elegant past. Each experience is personalised to provide an intimate connection to Japan’s time-honoured traditions, ensuring your journey is unforgettable.

Sumo Training Stables

A visit to a sumo training stable offers an immersive glimpse into one of Japan’s oldest and most respected traditions. Visitors can observe the rigorous routines and dedication required of sumo wrestlers. Sumo wrestlers engage in intense physical conditioning and practise ancient techniques under the watchful guidance of their coaches. Mornings start early, with wrestlers honing their skills and discipline through drills and practice matches. This unique experience provides insight into Japan’s cultural heritage, revealing the blend of strength, respect, and ritual at the heart of the sumo lifestyle.

Temples

Home to UNESCO World Heritage sites and ancient temples, Nara offers a peaceful retreat for luxury travellers. Visit Todai-ji Temple and the famous Nara Park with a private guide, ensuring a tranquil experience away from the crowds. Stay in boutique accommodations that provide an intimate connection to Japan’s rich history.

Parks and Gardens

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Japan’s parks and gardens, where traditional landscapes come to life in serene, meticulously designed environments. With exclusive access, luxury travellers can enjoy peaceful, off-the-beaten-path spots without the crowds. Stroll through Kyoto’s tranquil Kenrokuen Garden, renowned for its perfect balance of natural elements, or explore the serene ponds and bridges of Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo.

For those seeking hidden gems, visit Korakuen Garden in Okayama or the picturesque Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu. Each of these spaces offers a harmonious blend of nature and art, creating the ultimate tranquil escape.

Here are the top 10 parks and gardens in Japan:

• Kenrokuen Garden – in Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens. Known for its stunning seasonal views, meticulously designed ponds, bridges, and traditional teahouses, offering a tranquil escape year-round.
• Kiyosumi Teien – in Tokyo is a serene traditional Japanese garden featuring meticulously landscaped ponds, stone paths, and beautifully arranged rocks, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the bustling city surroundings.
• Ritsurin Garden – in Takamatsu is a beautifully landscaped, historic garden featuring tranquil ponds, arched bridges, and lush greenery, offering visitors stunning views of Mount Shiun and a peaceful, immersive experience of traditional Japanese design.
• Korakuen Garden – in Okayama is one of Japan’s most renowned landscape gardens, known for its spacious lawns, scenic ponds, and stunning seasonal views, providing a tranquil escape with views of Okayama Castle.
• Shinjuku Gyoen – in Tokyo is a sprawling, peaceful garden blending Japanese, French, and English landscape styles, featuring beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, serene ponds, and lush greenery, offering an urban escape.
• Sankeien Garden – in Yokohama is a traditional Japanese garden featuring historic buildings, picturesque ponds, and seasonal blooms. It offers a serene atmosphere with beautiful views of pagodas, teahouses, and walking paths.
• Kokedera (Moss Temple Garden) – in Kyoto is a tranquil, UNESCO-listed garden known for its lush, green moss-covered landscape, serene ponds, and ancient temples, offering a peaceful and meditative experience for visitors.
• Adachi Museum of Art Gardens – The in Shimane is renowned for its meticulously designed landscapes, blending art and nature with beautiful seasonal views. The gardens complement the museum’s impressive collection of Japanese art.
• Hamarikyu Gardens – in Tokyo is a beautifully landscaped park featuring tidal ponds, traditional teahouses, and seasonal flower displays, offering a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city, with views of the Tokyo skyline.
• Nijo Castle Gardens – in Kyoto surround the historic Nijo Castle, featuring beautifully landscaped ponds, carefully manicured trees, and stone pathways, offering a serene and scenic complement to the castle’s impressive architecture and cultural significance.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Step out and indulge your senses in Japan’s renowned Michelin-starred dining, where luxury travellers can experience world-class cuisine. Tokyo alone boasts over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants, including the famed Sukiyabashi Jiro, known for its exceptional sushi, and Narisawa, celebrated for its innovative fusion of French and Japanese techniques. In Kyoto, enjoy kaiseki at Kikunoi, or in Osaka, savour fine dining at Hajime. For a modern twist, Den in Tokyo offers a playful take on traditional Japanese dishes.

After dining, immerse yourself in Japan’s vibrant nightlife. Visit Tokyo’s upscale Roppongi district, the neon-lit streets of Shibuya, or the intimate cocktail bars in Ginza. For a more local experience, explore Dotonbori in Osaka or Kyoto’s Pontocho Alley. Private bar tours with expert sommeliers offer exclusive access to hidden bars and the finest Japanese whiskies, ensuring an unforgettable evening of luxury and entertainment.

Top 5 Nightlife Hotspots:

• Roppongi – in Tokyo is known for its upscale and vibrant nightlife scene. Luxury venues include Roku Roku, an elegant sushi bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Mori Art Museum’s Sky Lounge, offering stunning city views, and R2 Supperclub, a chic cocktail lounge with live music.
• Shibuya – in Tokyo is a lively nightlife district blending trendy and upscale venues. Luxury options include Cerulean Tower’s Bellovisto Bar, offering panoramic city views, Ishinohana, a stylish cocktail bar, and Kaikaya, an upscale seafood restaurant with a creative fusion menu.
• Ginza – in Tokyo is renowned for its upscale nightlife, offering elegant bars and fine dining. Luxury venues include Bar High Five, a world-class cocktail bar, Ginza Kojyu, a Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant, and The Bar at the Peninsula, known for its refined ambiance and premium drinks.
• Dotonbori in Osaka is a vibrant nightlife area known for its neon lights and lively atmosphere. Luxury venues include Bar Nayuta, a sophisticated cocktail bar, Hariju, a renowned high-end sukiyaki restaurant, and Zuboraya, famous for its premium fugu dining experience.
• Pontocho Alley – in Kyoto is a narrow, historic street offering an elegant nightlife experience. Luxury venues include Kappo Sakamoto for refined kaiseki dining, Pontocho Kaburenjo Theatre for exclusive geisha performances, and Mizai, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering seasonal Japanese cuisine.

Top 5 Restaurants:

• Sukiyabashi Jiro – in Tokyo is a world-renowned, Michelin-starred sushi restaurant led by master chef Jiro Ono. Offering an unforgettable, omakase-style dining experience, this exclusive 10-seat venue is famous for its impeccable sushi craftsmanship and precision.
• Narisawa – in Tokyo is a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative blend of Japanese and French cuisine. Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa’s seasonal tasting menu focuses on sustainability and nature, offering a unique and artistic dining experience.

3. Kikunoi – in Kyoto is a Michelin-starred restaurant specialising in traditional kaiseki dining. Led by chef Yoshihiro Murata, Kikunoi offers exquisitely crafted, multi-course meals that highlight seasonal ingredients, combining artful presentation with a deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions.

4. Hajime – in Osaka is a Michelin three-star restaurant renowned for its exceptional fine dining experience. Led by chef Hajime Yoneda, the restaurant offers innovative, artfully presented dishes that blend French cuisine with Japanese philosophy and seasonal ingredients.

5. Den – in Tokyo is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a creative and playful take on modern Japanese cuisine. Chef Zaiyu Hasegawa crafts inventive dishes with a personal touch, blending humour, seasonal ingredients, and impeccable culinary technique.

Luxury Accommodation

Hotels

Japan boasts an array of luxurious accommodations, from modern five-star hotels in bustling cities to traditional ryokans in tranquil settings. Each of these luxury hotels offers a distinct experience, capturing Japan’s blend of modern sophistication and deep cultural heritage. They’re ideal for travellers seeking exclusive amenities, refined service, and immersive local touches.

• The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto — Nestled along the Kamogawa River, The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto embodies elegance with its Zen-inspired design and riverside views. Guests are treated to impeccable service, Michelin-starred dining, and luxurious rooms that reflect Kyoto’s cultural heritage, making it a top choice for discerning travellers.
• Park Hyatt Tokyo — Located in Shinjuku, Park Hyatt Tokyo gained fame through the film Lost in Translation and offers iconic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji. With its world-class spa, rooftop pool, and refined dining, it’s a sophisticated retreat for those seeking luxury and panoramic city views.
• Amanemu – Shima — Amanemu in Ise-Shima National Park offers a peaceful escape with its hot spring onsen and suites overlooking Ago Bay. Combining traditional Japanese ryokan style with modern luxury, it provides wellness-focused experiences and exclusive access to the natural beauty of the region.
• HOSHINOYA Kyoto — Accessible by a scenic boat ride along the Oi River, HOSHINOYA Kyoto is a luxurious riverside ryokan offering traditional Japanese hospitality. Its spacious rooms, beautiful garden views, and seasonal kaiseki dining make it an immersive experience of Kyoto’s beauty and culture.
• The Peninsula Tokyo — Overlooking the Imperial Palace gardens, The Peninsula Tokyo combines modern luxury with Japanese art and design. Known for spacious rooms, world-class dining, and exceptional service, it’s a prime choice for travellers wanting luxury accommodations near Tokyo’s Ginza district.
• Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto — Set in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, this Four Seasons hotel features a beautiful pond garden, tranquil spa, and luxurious accommodations. With its blend of contemporary and traditional design, it offers an elegant sanctuary close to Kyoto’s ancient temples and shrines.
• Conrad Osaka — Located in the heart of Osaka, Conrad Osaka offers breathtaking views of the city from its floor-to-ceiling windows. Known for its stylish design, art collections, and vibrant dining options, it brings a chic, modern touch to luxury in Osaka.
• Hoshinoya Tokyo — A modern take on the traditional ryokan, HOSHINOYA Tokyo provides a unique experience in the city’s Otemachi district. The hotel’s tatami-matted rooms, rooftop onsen, and meticulously crafted Japanese meals create an immersive cultural escape in the heart of Tokyo.
• Mandarin Oriental Tokyo — Located in Nihonbashi, the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is known for its award-winning dining, sophisticated design, and stunning skyline views. With luxurious rooms, a holistic spa, and proximity to Tokyo’s best shopping and dining, it’s a perfect blend of tradition and modern elegance.

Flights

Several international airlines offer first-class service transit through Japan, especially at major airports like Tokyo Narita (NRT), Tokyo Haneda (HND), and Osaka Kansai (KIX). Here are some top first-class airlines with transit options in Japan:

• Singapore Airlines – With transit options through Japan, Singapore Airlines offers its famous first-class suites on routes connecting Tokyo to Singapore and various destinations in Europe, North America, and Australia.
• Emirates — Emirates offers transit options through Japan (especially at Tokyo Narita and Osaka) with its first-class suites on flights between Dubai and destinations like New York, Sydney, and European cities.
• Qatar Airways — While Qatar’s full first class is limited to select flights, its Qsuite (a premium business-class product) is available on flights from Tokyo and Osaka, offering a luxurious transit option for travellers heading to the Middle East, Europe, or North America.
• Japan Airlines (JAL) — Japan Airlines offers exceptional service in its first class, called “JAL Suite," available on select international routes to North America, Europe, and Asia, with luxurious dining and amenities.
• Nippon Airways (ANA) — ANA’s “The Suite" first class is known for its spacious seating, private suites, and top-tier service, mainly available on routes from Tokyo to major cities such as New York, London, and Frankfurt.
• Cathay Pacific — Known for its luxurious first-class product, Cathay Pacific offers transit flights through Japan on routes between Hong Kong and destinations in North America and Europe.
• Lufthansa — Lufthansa’s first-class service includes routes between Japan (Tokyo Haneda and Osaka Kansai) and Germany, offering a seamless transit option to Europe with top-tier amenities and access to Lufthansa’s First Class Terminal in Frankfurt.

These airlines provide premium services that include spacious suites, gourmet dining, high-end amenities, and access to exclusive lounges for a luxurious transit experience through Japan.

Discover Japan Like Never Before

Japan is a destination that seamlessly blends rich traditions with modern luxury, offering a travel experience like no other. From private tours of ancient temples in Kyoto to indulging in the finest dining experiences in Tokyo, every aspect of your journey can be tailored to perfection on any number of custom Japan Tours. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil escape in a hot spring resort, a first-class culinary adventure, or an immersive cultural experience, Japan offers it all—elevated to meet the highest standards of comfort and exclusivity.

For discerning travellers seeking an unforgettable holiday, we can help you plan your luxury Japan tour with personalised itineraries, exclusive access, and world-class accommodations. We recommend booking well in advance to secure the best options. Contact the experts at Firstclass.com.au and start crafting your perfect Japan journey today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a luxury trip to Japan can raise a lot of questions, so we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common queries to help you make the most of your Luxury Japan Tour.