Example Itinerary

Sacred Scenic Sites of Japan

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Spirituality, Amazing Landscapes
Destinations
Japan

This 14-day tour will take you on a journey of a lifetime through Japan’s stunning landscape and sacred sites. Prepare to hike up Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest active volcanoes. Marvel at the breathtaking and unforgettable scenery of the Kirishima volcanoes. Uncover the fascinating history and traditions in the ancient capital of Kyoto. Let your stress melt away while basking in natural hot springs. Experience Japanese mythology as you watch the sacred dances of Yokagura at the Takachiho shrine. Explore the world-class metropolitan city of Tokyo and take advantage of some of the best shopping, entertainment, culture and dining the world has to offer.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

• Great Outdoors: Hike to the highest peaks on Kyushu to see the Kuju volcanoes and stay in a hot spring lodge.

• Kyoto: Immerse yourself in culture and history in the ancient capital, paying visits to Kiyomizudera Temple and the Silver Pavilion, then contemplate along the Philosopher's Path.

• Folklore: Learn about Japan's creation myths with a sacred dance performance at a shrine in Takachino - a town nestled amongst fabled rock formations.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Map

Tokyo

Explore the sights and sounds of Tokyo, the center of the world's most populated metropolitan area. You’ll be met at Narita International Airport and taken to central Tokyo via train for a leisurely walk around the city. You’ll pay a visit to the Toyosu Fish Market, Japan’s largest and busiest fish market, and walk the streets of Akihabara, a district famous for its many electronics and anime shops. In the evening, enjoy a Japanese feast before you settle down in your luxury hotel.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Spread across the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower in Tokyo’s financial district, this lofty hotel presents city superb views and is just steps from Tokyo Station and Ginza shopping district.

History: This newly built-hotel is the first ever ‘city’ hotel from the luxurious Aman Resorts, a group that has over two dozen resorts in their portfolio spread across four different continents.

Services: The wealth of services here all take advantage of the stunning views, whether you’re treating yourself to a massage in the spa, enjoying fine Mediterranean cuisine in the 33rd floor restaurant or doing laps in the infinity pool.

Read More
Aman Tokyo Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: The Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, is located 38 floors above street level in a district of Tokyo called Nihonbashi, a business district often referred to as the “center of Japan”.

History: Of all Tokyo’s business districts, the 400-year-old Nihonbashi is the only one that still retains much of its old world charm.

Service: This is the only hotel in Tokyo to have been awarded Six-Star International Diamond status by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences, recognizing the hotel’s reputation for excellence.

Read More
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

High-tech: in-room amenities.

Pool: Large 65-foot swimming pool and equally sizable hydrotherapy pool.

Views: Superb views of the Imperial Palace.

Location: Within walking distance to the shopping paradise of Ginza.

Read More
The Peninsula Tokyo Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Map

Kyoto

Watch the scenery zip by as we travel by bullet train to the ancient capital of Kyoto. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch followed by a visit to Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, a famous Buddhist temple along Kyoto’s eastern mountains. Walk along the Philosopher’s Path and witness the beauty of a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Take in the tranquility of the Kiyomizudera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finish the day with a delicious dinner and relaxing stay at a traditional ryokan (traveller’s inn) or the classy Ritz-Carlton on the Kamogawa river.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Nature: Aman Kyoto's palette is the inviting green of forest scenery and the warm, woody tones of shelter. So aligned with its surroundings, the hotel changes with the seasons; Taka-An's menu puts the spotlight on seasonal produce, while the floor-to-ceiling windows showcase how the passing months shape the landscape.

Culture: Kaiseki banquets, matcha and mochi afternoon tea, tranquil and contemplative gardens, indoor and outdoor onsen bathing facilities, options for futon bedding and tatami mat flooring – the entire property has been designed with an immersion in both nature and culture in mind, so guests can experience true Japanese hospitality.

Wellness: A stay at the Aman Kyoto is not just a quiet retreat to return to after a day of sightseeing in Kyoto, but also an oasis designed to replenish the body and mind. The in-house spa specializes in Shiatsu massage, onsen pools are fed by the mineral-rich waters of local hot springs, while private yoga sessions in a forest clearing release stress and tension.

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Aman Kyoto Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Nestled at the foot of Higashiyama Mountain, alongside a thousand-year-old ikeniwa pond, Four Seasons Kyoto is located just ten minutes from Kyoto’s city center, within the temple district, making it an ideal base from which to explore the nearby shrines and historic landmarks, as well as the more modern attractions of Japan’s elegant former capital.

History: Having opened it’s doors in October 2016, Four Seasons Kyoto - the second site for the Four Seasons brand in the country - may have been five years in the planning, but the atmosphere of urbane tranquility of the Zen inspired interiors has made an indelible impression on a city known for its sense of style and sophistication.

Service: Four Seasons Kyoto provides the very best in round-the-clock luxury service, complete with 24-hour concierge and room service, manned with English-speaking staff ready to cater for to guests’ wants and needs.

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Four Seasons Kyoto Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Nestled in pristine forest, Hoshinoya Kyoto is in the perfect environment for de-stressing. The protected forests surrounding the resort are wonderfully revitalizing.

Service: Guests enjoy traditional Japanese hospitality in an authentic ryokan environment.

Comfort: Hoshinoya is a hybrid-ryokan combining the traditional features of a ryokan with contemporary luxury furnishings, including large comfortable beds.

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HOSHINOYA Kyoto Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Sitting on the serene banks of the stunning Kamogawa river within walking distance of several famous streets and popular sights, this hotel couldn’t have a more perfect location. Plus, it’s only a 20-minute taxi ride from the Kyoto airport.

History: Paying homage to rich Japanese culture, the fourth Ritz-Carlton in Japan opened in Kyoto in February of 2014.

Service: Guests can count on dependable, high-level service at the Ritz-Carlton, where a luxury experience is guaranteed, complemented by extremely helpful staff.

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Ritz-Carlton Kyoto Preferred Hotel
About

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto is tucked away next to Nijo-jo Castle, at the Kyoto home of the Kitake, a branch of the Mitsui Family. This land has been in the care of the family for more than 250 years.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Kyoto
Kyoto

Day 3

Map

Kyoto

Discover the Ryoan-ji Temple, home to a garden that is considered to be one of the finest examples of Japanese rock garden design. Explore the Arashiyama district by taking a stroll on the Togetsukyo Bridge and visit the famous bamboo groves behind the Tenryuji Temple. After lunch, you are free to roam the city until the evening. Take the opportunity to further sightsee in central Kyoto or take in the beautiful scenery of mountains and river by boat ride along the Sagami River.

Day 4

Map

Kuju Highlands

Travel to the highest peaks on the island of Kyushu and see the Kuju volcanoes. Hike to a hot spring lodge surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Enjoy a hearty dinner and rest comfortably overnight at the lodge.

Hotel Options
About

One of the highest hotels nestled into the Kuju highlands, Resonate Club Kuju is a simple-yet-comfortable option. Rooms are colorful, if not entirely stylish, but come with free parking, refrigerators, humidifiers, and high-speed internet.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 5

Map

Mount Aso

Embark on a picturesque hike to the Kuju-dake peak and Naka-dake peak before departing. You’ll travel by car to the Kurokawa hot spring village and stop to take a dip in the soothing and therapeutic waters. Next, we’ll head to Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan. Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner and rest in a comfortable nearby ryokan.

Hotel Options
About

This luxury hotel is not your typical ryokan, possessing a far more modern Japanese style than the more classic abodes. There is an outdoor hot spring bath that is full of water drawn from a hot spring source, as well as a library/lounge, both of which make excellent guest relaxation areas.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

This 10-room ryokan has been said by some to feel more like a traditional Japanese home than a hotel, and many enjoy this homey, more personal atmosphere. Here, guests are invited to take a step back in time, into Japan’s historical hospitality of centuries-past.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Mount Aso
Mount Aso

Day 6

Map

Mount Aso

Take the Sensuikyou cable car to the top of Mount Aso and hike along the crater’s edge through fields of lava rocks. Be dazzled by brightly-colored volcanic rocks and unique geological formations. Absorb the breathtaking sights at the top of Taka-dake and Naka-dae. Head back to the guesthouse for a rewarding meal and overnight stay.

Day 7

Map

Takachiho

Take a drive along the Aso Panorama highway and stop for a leisurely stroll through the lovely countryside. Continuing by foot, we will arrive at Takachiho, a town that sits along a gorge where fascinating rock formations have been integrated into local folklore. Witness the sacred dances of Yokagura at the Takachiho shrine, which delve into the mythical tales of Japan’s creation.

Hotel Options
About

Nestled into a quiet part of Takachiho, Ryokan Shinsen is the most comfortable ryokan in the area. It offers guests a choice of maisonnette and Japanese-style rooms, many of which can sleep larger groups.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

Map

Aya

Cycle along the peaceful countryside near Takachiho and partake in a picnic lunch. After, we will travel by road to Aya. Once arrived, we’ll take a short walk to the Teruha Suspension Bridge, a bridge 460 feet above the Aya River. If you are visiting during the spring, appreciate the beauty and colors of the cherry blossoms surrounding the nearby mountains.

Hotel Options
About

Designed by world-renowned Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma, the tranquil Garden Terrace Miyazaki Hotel is located approximately 10 miles from Manpuku-ji Temple and Aya Castle. There are only 12 rooms at Garden Terrace Miyazaki, and room types include Deluxe Rooms, Standard Rooms and Japanese Rooms.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Aya
Aya

Day 9

Map

Nichinan

Tour the historic Aya Castle. Try your hand at Japanese pottery making, weaving and aizome orimono (indigo-dyed fabric) at a local craft center. During the drive to Nichinan, enjoy the spectacular coastline. Stop to stretch your legs at the Udo-jingu Shrine, enclosed within a cave. Nichinan is a historical treasure with well-preserved Edo period samurai houses and Obi Castle. Visit the former residence of the Ito clan and stop at a teashop to enjoy fresh green tea and traditional Japanese sweets. Spend the evening at a charming seaside hotel.

Hotel Options
About

Located in Miyazaki Prefecture on Kyushu Island, the 84-room Nichinan Kaigan Nango Prince Hotel offers Twin Rooms and Double Rooms. Each room comes with a refrigerator and air conditioning.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 10

Map

Kirishima

This morning depart for the Kirishima volcanic range. Witness the dramatic landscape as hot steam spews out of numerous volcanic openings as we hike to the top of the Takachiho-no-mine Peak. After the climb, continue on a walk near the volcanic vents and experience the Shiratori hot spring where you will partake in an unforgettable outdoor mineral bath.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Set in the heart of forested greenery and babbling rivers in the aromatic oasis of Japan’s natural beauty, the Wasurenosato Gajoen is the very essence of enticing serenity.

Service: The attentive concierge service will address any request or accommodation with the utmost in professional care and consideration.

History: For forty years, Tateo and Etsuko Tajima have welcomed guests to their peaceful and natural oasis of cottages which are aptly named “Wasurenosato”, meaning Retreat Village.

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Wasurenosato Gajoen Preferred Hotel
About

This luxury resort is unlike most Japanese hotels. Set amidst lush, natural surroundings, Tenku no Mori exudes a classical boutique inn kind of atmosphere, and with only five rooms, it lives up to its self-proclamation of a ‘private resort’.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 11

Map

Kirishima

Take a day-trip to Kagoshima, home of the Shimazu clan, a powerful feudal family. Tour Sangen-en, the clan’s elegant villa and gardens situated across from an active volcano. Explore Kagoshima during free time in the afternoon. Return to Kirishima for the evening.

Kirishima
Kirishima

Day 12

Map

Tokyo

Travel to Chiran, a town full of historic Samurai houses and home to the air base used by Kamikaze pilots in World War II. Try homemade soba and udon noodles in an authentic, local restaurant for lunch. Depart for the sandy beaches in the south near the Kaimondake volcano and visit Yamakawa beach, where thermally heated mineral water bubbles to the surface. Dress in a cotton yukata robe and bask in the warm sand. Fly onward to Tokyo from Kagoshima airport.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Spread across the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower in Tokyo’s financial district, this lofty hotel presents city superb views and is just steps from Tokyo Station and Ginza shopping district.

History: This newly built-hotel is the first ever ‘city’ hotel from the luxurious Aman Resorts, a group that has over two dozen resorts in their portfolio spread across four different continents.

Services: The wealth of services here all take advantage of the stunning views, whether you’re treating yourself to a massage in the spa, enjoying fine Mediterranean cuisine in the 33rd floor restaurant or doing laps in the infinity pool.

Read More
Aman Tokyo Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: The Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, is located 38 floors above street level in a district of Tokyo called Nihonbashi, a business district often referred to as the “center of Japan”.

History: Of all Tokyo’s business districts, the 400-year-old Nihonbashi is the only one that still retains much of its old world charm.

Service: This is the only hotel in Tokyo to have been awarded Six-Star International Diamond status by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences, recognizing the hotel’s reputation for excellence.

Read More
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

High-tech: in-room amenities.

Pool: Large 65-foot swimming pool and equally sizable hydrotherapy pool.

Views: Superb views of the Imperial Palace.

Location: Within walking distance to the shopping paradise of Ginza.

Read More
The Peninsula Tokyo Preferred Hotel

Day 13

Map

Tokyo

Immerse yourself in the abundance of shopping, entertainment, culture, and dining that Tokyo has to offer. The city’s history can be appreciated in many excellent museums and in the Asakusa district. Say your goodbyes to newfound friends at a farewell dinner.

Day 14

Map

Departure

On your final day, you’ll say goodbye to Japan, though you’ll take with you the memories you created. Your guide will help you transfer to Tokyo’s Narita airport for your flight home or to your next exciting destination.

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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