At a glance
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Our group trips are a great chance to travel with others. We also recommend adding in a few extra nights tailor-made to ensure you build the perfect itinerary.
This 12-night, tailor-made journey through Japan is crafted to showcase the country’s culture, contrasts, and quieter moments of beauty, blending world-famous landmarks with more intimate, off-the-beaten-track experiences. It is a refined and romantic exploration of a destination where tradition and modern life coexist in perfect balance.
Japan is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, immaculate service, and deep sense of history. Known as The Land of the Rising Sun, it offers a way of life shaped by ritual, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Throughout the journey, you will experience Japanese hospitality at its finest, with every element thoughtfully arranged for comfort and ease.
Your journey begins with three nights in Tokyo, one of the world’s most innovative capitals. Here, ancient Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples sit alongside striking architecture and vibrant neighbourhoods. You will then spend two nights in a traditional Japanese ryokan, where tatami rooms, onsen bathing, and serene surroundings provide an authentic cultural immersion.
From here, travel on to Kyoto for three nights in Japan’s former imperial capital, celebrated for its temples, gardens, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The journey continues through Hiroshima and Miyajima before concluding with two nights in Osaka, a city known for its food scene, energy, and character.
More Information
Japan remains the only G7 country without legal recognition for same-sex couples. While partnership certificates now cover over 92% of the population across 530+ municipalities, these provide limited benefits without the legal protections of marriage, including inheritance rights, spousal visas, or parental authority.
Multiple high courts have ruled Japan’s same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional between 2021 and 2025, including decisions in Sapporo, Tokyo, Fukuoka, Nagoya, and Osaka. However, in November 2025, a different Tokyo High Court ruling upheld the ban, creating conflicting precedents. These cases await Supreme Court review, though Japan’s high court cannot mandate marriage equality. Only the National Diet can change the law.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who took office in October 2025, opposes same-sex marriage. During a 2025 campaign debate, she stated she opposed legalizing same-sex unions, though adding that having a same-sex partner was “fine.”
This marks a shift from her predecessor Shigeru Ishiba, who expressed public sympathy for same-sex couples and suggested marriage equality would “make the nation happier.”
The government extended nine laws in 2025 to recognise same-sex couples in “de facto marriages,” including domestic violence protections and housing rights. However, 120 laws, primarily covering social security and taxes, still exclude same-sex couples. Japan has no national anti-discrimination legislation protecting LGBTQ+ individuals in employment, housing, or public services.
Urban areas like Tokyo and Osaka maintain visible LGBTQ+ communities with Pride events, inclusive nightlife, and advocacy organizations. Public opinion polls show approximately 68% of Japanese support same-sex marriage, with higher support among younger generations. However, traditional family structures and conservative political leadership continue to slow legislative progress.
For LGBTQ+ travellers, Japan presents a complex landscape. Same-sex couples face no legal penalties, hotels and restaurants in major cities serve LGBTQ+ guests without issue, and street-level discrimination is uncommon.
However, couples cannot access spousal benefits, some traditional ryokans apply their own policies regarding room-sharing, and public displays of affection between any couples remain culturally uncommon. Most onsen remain gender-segregated, and mixed-gender baths are restricted in Tokyo, though welcoming options exist elsewhere across the country. We identify LGBTQ+ welcoming properties and navigate these nuances based on our experience arranging Japan travel for our clients.
- 08 May, 2027
- Accommodation as listed
- Airport arrival and departure transfers, plus all intercity travel by Bullet Train (Green Class)
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Tokyo, 2 nights in a traditional Ryokan, 3 nights in Kyoto, 2 nights in Hiroshima, and 2 nights in Osaka
- Guided sightseeing including full-day tours in Tokyo and Kyoto, a full-day excursion to Nikko, and a full-day tour of Miyajima Island
- Cultural and scenic highlights including Hakone Open-Air Museum, Lake Ashinoko cruise, Himeji Castle, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and a half-day tour of Osaka’s Dotonbori area
- Daily breakfasts, lunches, and dinners as outlined in the itinerary
- International Flights
- Travel insurance
In detail
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Days 1 – 3: Tokyo and Nikko
Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to your hotel in the vibrant Shinjuku district. Begin with a welcome dinner before exploring the city in depth the following day, including Tokyo Skytree, Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Crossing. An evening foodie tour introduces Tokyo’s local dining scene. On day three, travel to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Nikko to visit the ornate Toshogu Shrine and the scenic Kanmangafuchi Abyss. Return to Tokyo in the evening with time to explore independently.
Days 5 – 6: Hakone and Kyoto
Spend a full day in Hakone exploring the Open-Air Museum, enjoying panoramic views from the Komagatake Ropeway, and visiting the volcanic Owakudani Valley. Return to your traditional ryokan with time to relax before dinner. The following day, transfer to Odawara Station and travel by Green Class bullet train to Kyoto. Lunch is at leisure. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner with a Maiko, offering insight into Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Days 7 – 8: Kyoto
Enjoy a full-day guided tour of Kyoto, visiting Kinkakuji Temple, the Arashiyama district, the Bamboo Grove, and the Okochi Sanso Villa and gardens. Lunch is included, with the evening free to explore Kyoto’s dining scene independently. The following day is at leisure to enjoy Kyoto at your own pace, whether relaxing, exploring independently, or joining an optional excursion.
Days 11 – 13: Hiroshima, Osaka and Departure
Begin with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum before travelling by Green Class bullet train to Osaka. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. The next day includes a guided walk through the lively Dotonbori district, followed by free time for shopping or relaxation and a farewell dinner. On the final day, transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey home.
More Information
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Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.
Kyoto: Half Day Temples Tour
May 15, 2027 – $100 per person
(Please note: only one optional Kyoto tour may be selected, as all take place on the morning of May 15.)
Following the morning’s guided sightseeing in Kyoto, including visits to Kinkakuji Temple and the Arashiyama District, this optional half-day experience offers a deeper exploration of the city’s spiritual and cultural heart. Visit the serene Nanzenji Temple before strolling along the Philosopher’s Path, a peaceful walkway lined with temples and seasonal beauty. Continue to Ginkakuji Temple, celebrated for its understated elegance and contemplative gardens. This experience is ideal for those wishing to further immerse themselves in Kyoto’s timeless atmosphere at a relaxed and considered pace.
Kyoto: Izakaya Cooking Class – Optional Experience
May 15, 2027 – $180 per person
(Only one optional Kyoto tour may be selected, as all take place on the morning of May 15.)
This hands-on cooking class introduces izakaya cuisine, the heart of Japan’s casual dining culture. Known for its relaxed, social atmosphere, izakaya dining focuses on small, shareable dishes that balance comfort and flavour.
Guided by a local expert, you will prepare a selection of classic dishes using traditional techniques, before enjoying what you have created together. It’s a relaxed and authentic way to experience everyday Japanese food culture in Kyoto.
Sample menu includes:
Kinpira gobo
Hijiki seaweed and lotus root miso salad
Tofu meatballs with mushroom ankake sauce
Japanese fried chicken with aromatic sauce
Okonomiyaki
Yuzu jelly
Kyoto: Traditional Tea Ceremony
May 15, 2027 – $100 per person
(Only one optional Kyoto tour may be selected, as all take place on the morning of May 15.)
This experience offers an introduction to Sado, the traditional Japanese tea ceremony centred around the preparation and serving of matcha. Developed during the Azuchi-Momoyama period by Sen no Rikyu, the philosophy of Wabicha forms the foundation of modern tea ceremony and reflects the values of simplicity, harmony, and respect.
Through observation and participation, you will gain insight into the etiquette, aesthetic principles, and rituals that define this practice. Learn how matcha is carefully prepared and discover how the tea ceremony embodies the essence of Japanese hospitality in a calm and considered setting.
Why book with us?
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We want to ensure you have the best experience with us so we’ll keep working on your itinerary until perfect. You will have your own personal dedicated member of our team who will help build a trip that is bespoke to you.
Call our travel experts on +44 (0)20 7157 1570
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