We’re Japanese, and these are the tours
we’d take our friends on
Small-group journeys thoughtfully designed and personally led by a local.
No mass tours. No tourist traps.
Let’s travel how Japanese people travel Japan: Authentically
Lodging, transportation, meals, experiences, and more all taken care of in your tour price.
Tour Japan with us!
Each group tour is personally planned and led by me. I’m a Japanese certified domestic travel service manager, and I want to explore authentic Japan with you.
By keeping groups small, I’m able to offer personal attention to every guest—carefully directing each day while creating meaningful, one-on-one connections along the way.
So come join me! My next tour is during cherry blossom season! Book a call with me to learn the details, or check out Upcoming Tours
Questions?
Let’s Chat Before Your Tour:
Upcoming All-Inclusive Tours
Departure: November 8, 2026｜Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days｜Meals: All Included
Price: $3,190.00
Early-Bird Discount: $2,940.00 (if paid in full by May 12)
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
*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 April 14.
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 by Miharu.
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
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.
Price: $3,390 – Includes three meals per day, accommodation, domestic transportation, and admission fees.
Refundable Deposit: $600
Full payment is due by April 2 (Japan time).
For those requesting a single room, an additional $800 hotel supplement will apply.
Early Bird Discount: $3,140
(Available to those who pay in full by November 13, 2025)
Day 1｜Tuesday, May 12 – Tokyo – Arrival & Free Time
Arrive in Tokyo via your preferred airline. After checking in, enjoy free time to explore the city at your leisure. Use this opportunity to rest and adjust after your journey.
Accommodation: Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar class hotel (Check-in after 3:00 PM)
Day 2｜Wednesday, May 13 – Kibune & Kurama – Sacred Shrines & Scenic Train Journey
After breakfast, fly from Haneda Airport to Itami Airport. Upon arrival, transfer by private chartered bus to Kibune in Kyoto.
Visit Kifune Shrine, dedicated to the god of water, and enjoy its serene, spiritual atmosphere.
Lunch will feature kawadoko cuisine, a seasonal specialty served on a platform over the river—a cool and peaceful experience amidst May’s lush greenery.
In the afternoon, ride the Eizan Electric Railway to Kurama. This historic line, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, offers breathtaking views of fresh spring foliage forming a tunnel around the train.
Explore the mystical grounds of Kurama-dera Temple, steeped in legends of Minamoto no Yoshitsune and mythical tengu.
Accommodation: Umekoji Potel Kyoto (or equivalent)
Day 3｜Thursday, May 14 – Kyoto – Imperial Elegance & Cultural Immersion
After breakfast, visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of Japan’s emperors, where history, refinement, and traditional design come together.
After lunch, experience a hands-on Kyo-Yuzen dyeing workshop, learning the art of this vibrant traditional craft.
In the evening, enjoy the Kamogawa Odori, a limited-time spring performance showcasing the refined dances and music of maiko and geiko—a captivating expression of Kyoto’s elegance.
Accommodation: Umekoji Potel Kyoto (or equivalent)
Day 4｜Friday, May 15 – Amanohashidate – Heavenly Views & Hot Springs
After breakfast, take a scenic bus ride to Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views.
At the Amanohashidate View Land observation deck, enjoy the famous “matanozoki” (viewing the landscape upside down between your legs), which makes the sandbar look like a path to the heavens.
Spend a relaxing evening with local seasonal cuisine and a soak in the hot springs.
Accommodation: Amanohashidate Onsen, Amanohashidate Hotel (or equivalent)
Day 5｜Saturday, May 16 – Ine – Seaside Heritage & Bay Cruise
After breakfast, visit Ine, a charming fishing village known for its unique funaya (boat houses) lining the water’s edge.
Take a peaceful stroll through the village and rest at Funaya no Sato Park, where a scenic observation deck provides sweeping views of Ine Bay.
After a seafood lunch, enjoy souvenir shopping or, weather permitting, take a sightseeing boat cruise around the bay.
If time allows, visit hidden gems like Urashima Shrine or Nunobiki Waterfall.
Accommodation: Amanohashidate Onsen, Amanohashidate Hotel (or equivalent)
Day 6｜Sunday, May 17 – Fukuchiyama – Castle History & Local Charm
After breakfast, travel to Fukuchiyama to explore Fukuchiyama Castle, built by the famed samurai general Akechi Mitsuhide.
The reconstructed keep offers insights into the area’s Sengoku-era legacy.
Enjoy a guided walking tour through town for a taste of local life, history, and hospitality.
After lunch, return to Kyoto and transfer to Itami Airport.
Accommodation: Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu (or equivalent)
Day 7｜Monday, May 18
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
Sayonara… Until we meet again on the next journey!
Cancellation Policy:
• More than 40 days before May 12, 2026: 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 May 13. You’ll get to enjoy a regional specialty for lunch.
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 by Miharu.
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!
Deposit: $600.00
Total price: $3,390
This tour invites you to explore the timeless beauty of Kyoto and the hidden coastal gems of northern Kyoto.
From sacred shrines in the forested mountains of Kurama to the heavenly views of Amanohashidate and the tranquil charm of Ine’s fishing village, you’ll experience the rich culture, elegant traditions, and natural wonders of Japan. Enjoy curated experiences, including a hands-on Kyo-Yuzen workshop, a maiko dance performance, paired with fine seasonal cuisine and relaxing hot springs throughout the journey.
Departure: October 24, 2026｜Duration: 6 Nights / 7 Days｜Meals: All Included
Price: $3,190.00
Early-Bird Discount: $2,940.00 (if paid in full by April 28)
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 April 14.
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 by Miharu.
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 2–5, 2026
For service members stationed anywhere in Japan
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 konamon you cook yourself at the table, the wagashi you make with your own hands and eat while it's still fresh.
That’s what this tour is about.
Three days of eating your way through Tokyo like a local—trying a wide variety of foods that locals know and love.
This is for people who want to try authentic Japanese food that locals enjoy.
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!
What's included
4 nights accommodation at a 3-star hotel in Tokyo (check-in from 3 pm)
"Tabearuki" (eating while strolling) snacks
Wagashi making workshop
Suica card
Shibuya Sky admission
Hamarikyu admission & matcha
Your guide, Miharu
With you the entire tour
Personally selects every restaurant — no tourist traps
Teaches you how to order in Japanese at every meal stop
Helps book flights and hotel if needed
A taste of what awaits you
Monjayaki /Matcha /Japanese Omelette Rice/Wagashi/Minced Meat Cutlet/Yakitori (焼き鳥) /Izakaya Small Plates— everyday Japanese bar snacks that may be new to you, such as Takowasa, raw octopus with wasabi / Beef Sushi /Savory Mochi /Ichigo Daifuku /Tonkatsu / And of course, fresh sashimi and much more!
If available: Horse Meat Sashimi / Whale Meat /Fugu — Puffer Fish/Namako — Sea Cucumber /Kurage — Jellyfish /Shirako — Cod Sperm Sac (creamy, considered a delicacy)/Motsu — Beef/Pork Offal
Itinerary
Day 0 — July 2
Check in from 3 pm. Flying in? Share your flight details and we'll track your arrival. Taking the Shinkansen? Let us know your ETA.
Day 1 — July 3
Wagashi making workshop · Nezu Shrine · Tabearuki through Yanaka Ginza
Day 2 — July 4
Tsukiji Fish Market · Hama-rikyu Gardens (matcha) · Tsukishima
Day 3 — July 5
Meiji Shrine · Shibuya Scramble Crossing · Shibuya Sky · Ginza depachika (department store underground)
Day 4 — July 6
Check out & farewell. Heading home? We'll help you get to the airport smoothly.
Staying longer in Japan? Let us know — we can help you plan what's next.
Optional every night
Izakaya hopping at “Yokocho” Izakaya alleyways — Miharu leads, you pay your own tab
Sento public bath (tattoo-friendly)
What's not included
Flights (not included — flexible for your schedule)
Sit-down meals (you pay your own bill — Miharu picks the place and helps you order)
Drinks
Travel insurance
Budget guide: $$ on Google Maps — around ¥2,000–¥3,000 per person per meal (~$13–$20)
Pricing
All prices per person
Double (2 people sharing): $700
Single (private room): $880
Booking & Deposit
A 25% deposit is required to secure your spot.
We'll send you the detailed itinerary a week before your trip starts.
Sign-up & final payment deadline: May 31, 2026
Cancellation Policy
Cancel by May 31, 2026 — Full refund
Cancel by June 10, 2026 — 80% refund
Cancel by June 17, 2026 — 40% refund
Cancel after June 22, 2026 — No refund
Photos shown are selected from our previous similar tours and are for illustrative purposes only. The itinerary order may change depending on traffic conditions and reservation availability.
The Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi area—affectionately known as "Yanesen"—retains the rich, nostalgic atmosphere of Tokyo's traditional downtown districts. Long cherished by writers and artists, this neighborhood is also revered as a "sacred site for cats," drawing cat lovers from around the globe. Here, you will find a delightful array of cat-themed sweets and merchandise.
After this tour
We hope that when you leave Tokyo, you take with you not just wonderful memories and a full stomach — 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!