We’re Japanese, and this is how we’d show Japan to our own friends.
Small-group journeys beyond the usual tourist trail, thoughtfully designed and personally led by a Japanese local.
Accommodations, transportation, meals, and local experiences are thoughtfully arranged as part of your tour.
Tour Japan with us!
We explore different regions of Japan every year, discovering local favorites, hidden gems, and experiences you might not find on your own.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always somewhere new to discover.
Every tour is personally planned and led by me, a Kyoto native and certified domestic travel service manager in Japan.
With small groups and thoughtful planning, I take care of the details so you can enjoy the journey, connect with local culture, and experience Japan beyond the usual tourist trail.
Come explore Japan with me! Check out our Upcoming Tours or book a call to find your next adventure.
Questions?
Let’s Chat Before Your Tour:
Upcoming All-Inclusive Tours
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS!
Follow spring north through Japan’s beautiful Tohoku region, from the peaceful landscapes of Iwate to the spectacular cherry blossoms of Hirosaki.
Along the way, we’ll explore historic towns, discover local traditions, enjoy regional cuisine, and unwind at traditional hot spring inns.
Beyond the famous cherry blossom spots, this journey is about discovering a side of Japan that many travelers miss.
Tour Dates: April 15–21, 2027
Pricing: $3,590 per person (double occupancy)
Single-room supplement: $540
Reserve your spot with a $400 deposit.
Remaining balance due by February 14, 2027, once we’ve confirmed that the tour will operate.
Small group: Minimum 6 / Maximum 12 guests
Day 1 | April 15 Thu
Please share your flight details and expected arrival time with us in advance.
We’ll coordinate with you to arrange a meeting at the Haneda Airport arrival gate or another convenient meeting point.
The rest of the day is free to relax, explore the area around the hotel, or simply rest and prepare for the journey to Tohoku beginning the following day.
Stay: Haneda Airport (Feel free to leave any extra luggage at the hotel while we’re in Tohoku. We’ll be back at the same hotel on Day 6.)
Day 2 | April 16 Fri
We’ll fly from Haneda Airport to Akita. After arriving, we’ll enjoy a lunch featuring local Akita cuisine before continuing to Iwate by private charter bus.
Kitakami Tenshochi
Our first major cherry blossom destination of the journey. Around 10,000 cherry trees line the Kitakami River, making this one of Iwate’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spots.
We’ll take a leisurely walk among the blossoms and enjoy the peaceful spring scenery of rural Tohoku as we begin following the cherry blossom front northward.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue through mountain and countryside landscapes to Tsunagi Onsen.
After checking into our ryokan, take some time to relax in the hot springs and enjoy a dinner featuring local ingredients.
Stay: Tsunagi Onsen (Night 1)
One of my favorite parts of traveling in Japan is ending a day of sightseeing with a soak in an onsen. Tonight, you’ll have time to enjoy that experience for yourself.
Day 3 | April 17 Sat
Geibikei Gorge Boat Ride
Travel through the dramatic Geibikei Gorge aboard a traditional boat. Surrounded by towering cliffs, we’ll enjoy a peaceful journey through nature while listening to stories and songs from our boatman.
Enjoy local cuisine from the Ichinoseki area.
Hiraizumi
We’ll visit Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important center of culture and history in northern Japan.
Explore Chusonji Temple and its famous Konjikido, the Golden Hall, a National Treasure that symbolizes the prosperity of the Oshu Fujiwara clan.
This is a chance to discover a unique chapter of Tohoku’s history, when a flourishing culture once developed far from the political center of Kyoto.
Stay: Tsunagi Onsen (Night 2)
Day 4 | April 18 Sun
Leaving Iwate behind, we’ll continue north toward the Tsugaru region of Aomori.
As we travel through Iwate, Akita, and Aomori, watch the mountains and countryside gradually change as we make our way farther north.
Tsurunomai Bridge
A beautiful wooden bridge surrounded by the peaceful countryside of Tsugaru. With views toward Mount Iwaki, it offers a lovely opportunity to enjoy the scenery and tranquility of northern Japan.
Takayama Inari Shrine
Known for its rows of vivid red torii gates, this shrine offers a glimpse into the local traditions and spiritual culture of the Tsugaru region.
We’ll then explore Kuroishi’s historic Nakamachi Komise Street, where traditional wooden arcades, historic buildings, and local sake culture offer a glimpse into the area’s past, before continuing to Owani Onsen for the evening. Dinner at the ryokan.
Stay: Owani Onsen (Night 1)
Tonight, the stay is part of the experience. Enjoy the hot springs, take in the surroundings, and make the most of a relaxing evening at a Japanese onsen property.
Day 5 | April 19 Mon
The highlight of our journey. We’ll continue following the cherry blossom front northward to Hirosaki, home to some of the most celebrated cherry blossoms in Japan.
Hirosaki Park
Hirosaki Park is home to thousands of cherry trees in dozens of varieties.
We’ll enjoy the views around Hirosaki Castle, the West Moat, the famous cherry blossom tunnel, and hanaikada, where fallen cherry blossom petals cover the surface of the moat like a pink flower raft.
We’ll then explore Hirosaki’s historic castle town, with its preserved samurai residences, merchant houses, and Western-style architecture from the Meiji and Taisho periods.
Tsugaru-han Neputa Village | Goldfish Neputa Painting
Get to know Neputa, one of Tsugaru’s traditional summer festivals, and paint your own goldfish Neputa to take home as a unique souvenir from the journey.
If the cherry blossom conditions and evening illumination schedule align, we’ll also visit Hirosaki Park after dark to enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms before returning to the ryokan.
Dinner at the ryokan.
Stay: Owani Onsen (Night 2)
Day 6 | April 20 Tue
On our final full day of sightseeing, we’ll travel from Hirosaki to Aomori, journeying through the history of Tohoku from ancient times to modern-day Aomori culture.
Sannai-Maruyama Archaeological Site
Visit one of Japan’s largest and most significant Jomon-period settlement sites.
Long before the age of samurai, castles, or even the rise of Kyoto, people were already living and building communities here. We’ll take a deeper look into the ancient history of northern Japan.
After exploring the ancient Jomon settlement at Sannai-Maruyama, we’ll enjoy local Aomori cuisine before discovering more of the region’s culture.
We’ll visit Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse to learn about Aomori’s spectacular Nebuta Festival. If time allows, we’ll also stop at A-FACTORY to browse local food and regional specialties before heading to the airport for our flight to Tokyo.
We’ll then fly from Aomori Airport to Haneda Airport and check into a hotel near the airport.
Stay: Haneda Airport, same hotel as Day 1
Day 7 | April 21 Wed
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Our journey following the cherry blossoms north through Tohoku comes to an end.
After breakfast, you are free to continue with your own travel plans or make your way to your international departure flight.
Deposit: $400.00
Total price: $3,590
Follow spring north through Japan’s beautiful Tohoku region, from the peaceful landscapes of Iwate to the spectacular cherry blossoms of Hirosaki.
Along the way, we’ll explore historic towns, discover local traditions, enjoy regional cuisine, and unwind at traditional hot spring inns.
Beyond the famous cherry blossom spots, this journey is about discovering a side of Japan that many travelers miss.
Departure: November 8, 2026｜Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days｜Meals: All Included
Price: $3,190.00
Deposit: $400 / Single Room Supplement: +$600
November 8 (Sun)
Depart for Tokyo on your preferred airline.
Day 1｜Mon, Nov 9 – Arrival in Tokyo & Free Time
Arrive in Tokyo from the U.S. and spend some free time at Haneda Airport until check-in. You can relax, explore the nearby area, or prepare for the journey ahead at your own pace.
Accommodation: Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu (or similar) – Check-in from 3:00 PM
Day 2｜Tue, Nov 10 – Kagoshima
After breakfast at the hotel, fly from Haneda to Kagoshima (7:25 AM – 9:25 AM).
Upon arrival, travel by private coach toward Ibusuki Onsen, stopping at the Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots to reflect on WWII history and the importance of peace.
For lunch, enjoy Kagoshima’s specialty: Kurobuta (black pork) tonkatsu.
Next, visit Lake Ikeda Observatory to admire Kyushu’s largest caldera lake, surrounded by stunning autumn foliage.
In the afternoon, arrive at Ibusuki Onsen. Relax in the hot springs and enjoy a dinner featuring local ingredients.
Accommodation: Ibusuki Hakusuikan (or similar)
Day 3｜Wed, Nov 11 – Tanegashima Island
This morning, take a high-speed ferry from Kagoshima Port to Tanegashima Island.
Visit the Tanegashima Space Center to see real rocket launch facilities — a unique experience in Kyushu.
Explore Cape Kadokura, where firearms were first introduced to Japan, and visit the Gun Museum to experience a glimpse of history. For lunch, enjoy the island specialty — Asahi shrimp tempura.
In the evening, return by ferry to Kagoshima Port. Spend another relaxing night soaking in Ibusuki Onsen.
Accommodation: Ibusuki Hakusuikan (or similar)
Day 4｜Thu, Nov 12 – Kagoshima City & Sakurajima
After breakfast, depart Kagoshima City for sightseeing. Visit the Saigo Takamori Statue and Shiroyama Park, enjoying Kagoshima’s rich history and scenic views.
Take the Sakurajima Ferry to the volcanic island and experience the dramatic landscapes and natural power of the volcano up close.
Enjoy lunch on Sakurajima before heading by private coach to Kirishima in the afternoon. Check in at your hot spring hotel and enjoy a relaxing dinner.
Accommodation: Kirishima Hotel (or similar)
Day 5｜Fri, Nov 13 – Kirishima Highlands
After breakfast, explore the autumn foliage of the Kirishima Highlands.
At Yunotaki Waterfall, enjoy the beautiful cascade flowing from the sulfuric hot springs of Iou Valley, and feel the solemn atmosphere at Kirishima Shrine, a historically significant Shinto site.
Stop at Roadside Station Kirishima for a short break, then enjoy soba noodles made with the region’s famous spring water for lunch.
Next, visit Ebino Plateau, where the reflection of autumn leaves on Rokkanon Pond is breathtaking.
Accommodation: Kirishima Hotel (or similar)
Day 6｜Sat, Nov 14 – Miyazaki & Nichinan Coast
After breakfast, take a private coach to the Nichinan Coast in Miyazaki Prefecture.
Visit Aoshima Shrine and marvel at the unique rock formations known as the Devil’s Washboard, created by nature.
Stroll through Obi Castle Town, a historic samurai district, and enjoy its preserved streets and architecture.
Savor a lunch of Miyazaki local specialties, then take a direct flight from Miyazaki Airport to Haneda (5:40 PM – 7:30 PM).
Accommodation: Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu (or similar)
Day 7｜Sun, Nov 15 – Departure
After breakfast, conclude your journey through Southern Kyushu.
Sayonara… until our next adventure together!
Cancellation Policy:
• More than 40 days before: 100% refund
• 29–39 days before: 80% refund
• 14–28 days before: 40% refund
• 2-13 days before: 30% refund
• 1 day before or later: No refund
Once your booking is confirmed, we will send you detailed information closer to the departure date — including the full itinerary, meeting time, and directions to the first accommodation.
Minimum number of participants: 12
Participants based in Japan are also welcome to join this tour.
If you plan to arrive in Japan on your own and meet the group at the designated hotel, that is also acceptable.
In such cases, please inform us in advance.
Please note that the itinerary may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances such as typhoons or other natural disasters, flight cancellations, airline schedule changes, road conditions, or transportation delays.
Deposit: $400.00
Total price: $3,190
A carefully curated 7-day journey through Southern Kyushu, designed to blend Japan’s powerful natural landscapes, deep history, and soothing hot spring culture.
From Tokyo to Kagoshima, Tanegashima, Kirishima, and Miyazaki, you’ll explore volcanic islands, samurai towns, sacred shrines, and breathtaking coastal scenery—while enjoying authentic local cuisine and relaxing stays in traditional onsen ryokan.
Departure: October 24, 2026｜Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days｜Meals: All Included
Price: $3,190.00
Deposit: $400 / Single Room Supplement: +$600
October 24 (Sat)
Depart for Tokyo on your preferred airline.
Day 1｜Sun, Oct 25 – Arrival in Tokyo & Free Time
Arrive in Tokyo from the U.S. and spend free time at Haneda Airport until check-in.
Relax, explore the surrounding area, or prepare for the journey ahead at your own pace.
Accommodation: Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu (or similar) – Check-in from 3:00 PM
Day 2｜Mon, Oct 26 – Tokushima Sightseeing
After breakfast, take a domestic flight from Haneda to Tokushima Airport. (8:55 AM - 10:15 AM)
Upon arrival, travel by private coach to Naruto, and visit the Uzunomichi Observation Deck to witness the spectacular Naruto whirlpools.
Stop at Kurukuru Naruto Roadside Station, where you can enjoy local specialties such as seafood raised in the fast currents of Naruto and Naruto sweet potatoes for lunch.
Next, head to Tokushima City to experience the Awa Odori Kaikan, a cultural center showcasing Tokushima’s famous traditional dance.
In the afternoon, take the Mt. Bizan Ropeway to the summit for panoramic views of Tokushima City and the Naruto Strait.
Accommodation: AoAwo Naruto Resort (or similar)
Day 3｜Tue, Oct 27 – Historical Exploration
After breakfast, visit the Ai no Yakata Indigo Dyeing Museum & Historical House to learn about Tokushima’s traditional indigo dyeing culture and try hands-on dyeing yourself.
Next, visit Ryozenji Temple, the first temple of the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage, marking the start of this historic pilgrimage route.
After lunch, stroll through Udatsu Townscape, a well-preserved Edo-period street, and immerse yourself in its historic architecture and traditional Japanese atmosphere.
Accommodation: AoAwo Naruto Resort (or similar)
Day 4｜Wed, Oct 28 – Koboke & Oboke Gorges
After breakfast, travel by bus to the Koboke & Oboke Gorges. Enjoy a short walk to scenic viewpoints for breathtaking vistas. Let’s take a sightseeing boat to admire the gorges, dramatic rock formations, and crystal-clear rivers from the water.
Stop at a local roadside station along the way to rest and browse regional specialties.
In the afternoon, travel by private coach to Kotohira Onsen Village.
Check in and relax in the hot springs, then enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner featuring local ingredients.
Accommodation: Onyado Shikishimakan (or similar)
Day 5｜Thu, Oct 29 – Shodoshima Island
This morning, travel from Kotohira to Takamatsu Port and take a ferry to Shodoshima Island. Visit Kankakei Ropeway, famous for autumn foliage, and enjoy panoramic views of the gorge and the Seto Inland Sea from the summit.
For lunch, taste the island specialty somen noodles. Afterwards, visit a location preserving Shodoshima’s traditional soy sauce culture, then explore Nijushi no Hitomi Film Village, where you can experience the atmosphere of the famous movie.
Return by ferry to Takamatsu Port in the evening and spend the night again at Kotohira Onsen Village, enjoying the hot springs and dinner.
Accommodation: Onyado Shikishimakan (or similar)
Day 6｜Fri, Oct 30 – Takamatsu Sightseeing
After breakfast, visit Takamatsu Bonsai Village to experience Shikoku’s traditional horticultural culture. For lunch, savor Sanuki udon, a local specialty.
In the afternoon, visit Yashima, known for the historic Genpei War battle. From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea islands and Takamatsu city — a
picture-perfect landscape. After sightseeing, travel by private coach to Takamatsu Airport and fly back to Haneda. (5:20 PM - 6:35 PM)
Accommodation: Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu (or similar)
Day 7｜Sat, Oct 31 – Departure
After breakfast, conclude your Shikoku journey.
Sayonara… until our next adventure!
Cancellation Policy:
• More than 40 days before: 100% refund
• 29–39 days before: 80% refund
• 14–28 days before: 40% refund
• 2-13 days before: 30% refund
• 1 day before or later: No refund
*Participants are responsible for paying for their own flights to and from Tokyo (from their home country).
Three meals per day will be provided starting with breakfast on Oct 26.
The tour fee includes domestic airfare, hotel accommodations (based on double occupancy), all meals, chartered bus service, other forms of transportation, and admission fees listed in the itinerary.
However, insurance, phone calls, tips, laundry, and other personal expenses are not included in the tour fee.
Please note that the itinerary may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances such as typhoons or other natural disasters, flight cancellations, airline schedule changes, road conditions, or transportation delays.
Participants based in Japan are also welcome to join this tour.
If you plan to arrive in Japan on your own and meet the group at the designated hotel, that is also acceptable.
In such cases, please inform us in advance.
Minimum number of participants: 12
All tours on this website are led byMiharu.
Because we value personal connections with each guest, all tours are kept small and intimate.
If you have any questions or would like to get to know me before booking, feel free to reach out — let’s chat!
contact@japanplanned.com
Deposit: $400.00
Total price: $3,190
Explore Shikoku’s highlights, from Tokushima’s spectacular whirlpools and historic streets to the dramatic Koboke & Oboke Gorges. Relax in soothing hot springs, experience Shodoshima’s traditional culture, and enjoy Takamatsu’s scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
This journey includes hands-on experiences like indigo dyeing, traditional dance, and local cuisine. A seamless and unforgettable way to experience Japan’s hidden treasures.
Beyond the Base Tours
Japan Planned was founded by a Japanese local married to a U.S. Airman — born from a simple wish: that service members could truly experience the country they're living in.
Small groups, personally led, built around your holidays.
The real Japan, beyond the base.
We hope you leave with not just wonderful memories — but the confidence to explore Japan on your own someday.
Beyond the Base Tours · July 3–6, 2026
For service members stationed anywhere in Japan
Sign-up & final payment deadline: June 25, 2026 (Japan Time)
You're stationed in Japan. But how much of it have you actually eaten?
Not the ramen place everyone on base recommends.
The real stuff — the kissaten with no English sign, the monja you cook yourself at the table, the food sample you make with your own hands in Asakusa.
That's what this tour is about.
We'll graze Tsukiji market, sit at a sushi counter, cook monja on an iron griddle, make food samples in Asakusa, and hop through izakaya alleyways on the first night. In between — Senso-ji, Yanaka Ginza at sunset, and Shibuya Scramble on the way home.
Four days of eating your way through Tokyo like a local — trying a wide variety of foods that locals know and love, visiting the neighborhoods and spots every Tokyo first-timer should experience, and making memories around every meal.
Hi, I'm Miharu, founder of Japan Planned Tours. I'm Japanese, and my husband is US Air Force — which means I've spent years helping service members discover the Japan that most would never get to see. Every restaurant, every snack stand, every stop on this tour is my personal pick. This is the Tokyo I'd take my friends to.
Pricing
All prices per person
Double $599/person
Single $749/person
What’s Included:
3 nights accommodation at Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Roppongi (check-in July 3rd)
Tabearuki snacks at Yanaka Ginza
Food sample (sampuru) making workshop
Suica card
Miharu with you the entire tour
Japanese ordering guidance at every meal stop
Restaurant selection — every spot personally chosen, no tourist traps
Flight & hotel booking assistance before/after the tour
We hope that when you leave Tokyo, you take with you not just wonderful memories — but also the confidence to one day explore Japan on your own.
Let’s go see Mt. Fuji!
We’ll visit hidden spots that most other tours don’t go to and enjoy delicious local cuisine.
Plan Your Own Japan, With a Local's Help
Love the idea of exploring Japan on your own — but not sure where to start?
We'll build you a trip that actually makes sense — right places, right order, hidden spots included.
We handle the Japanese stuff too: restaurant calls, hard-to-book accommodation, anything lost in translation.
And we're just a message away while you travel.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like to get to know Miharu before booking tours, feel free to reach out — let’s chat!
Please fill out our form and we will be in touch as soon as we can. We can’t wait to hear from you!