Onsen & Okinawa Heritage Tour
Nagoya・Gifu・Okinawa
Soak in the Healing Waters of Takayama, Discover Cultural Gems in Gifu & Nagoya, and Embrace Okinawa’s Island Spirit
From Snowy Soaks to Island Breezes: A Journey Through Japan’s Healing Traditions and Hidden Histories
Tour Overview:
Experience the contrast of winter’s hush and island warmth on this immersive journey through Japan’s cultural heartlands. From the soothing hot springs of Takayama to the snow-draped charm of Shirakawago, discover a quieter side of Japan where tradition lingers and the pace gently slows. Then shift gears as you head south to Okinawa, where ocean breezes, vibrant markets, and historic castles invite you into a world of subtropical calm. With hands-on cultural experiences, locally inspired meals, and time to truly unwind, this tour offers a thoughtful way to reconnect—with Japan, and with yourself.
What’s Included:
- Expert English-speaking guides—including a tour leader from Honolulu—who bring Japan’s culture, history, and daily life to life with warmth and insight.
- Immersive cultural experiences, from watching a master swordsmith at work in Seki to strolling through the World Heritage village of Shirakawago and learning traditional Ryukyu dyeing in Okinawa.
- Comfortable stays at hand-selected hotels, including two nights at a relaxing onsen resort in Takayama and multiple nights in centrally located city and beachside accommodations in Okinawa.
- A gently paced itinerary that balances meaningful sightseeing with moments of rest—featuring peaceful shrine visits, scenic coastal walks, and time to shop, explore, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
- A seasonal journey that weaves together snowy mountain stillness and island warmth, with local cuisine, hands-on traditions, and time to reconnect with both place and self.
Key Highlights:
- Gifu & Takayama: Visit the historic sword-making town of Seki and try on a traditional kimono before exploring the paper lantern-lined streets of Mino. Stroll through Takayama’s charming old town and soak in the healing waters of Takayama’s natural onsen. Wander the snowy, storybook village of Shirakawago—one of Japan’s most treasured World Heritage sites.
- Nagoya: Dive into the culture and cuisine of Nagoya with visits to Atsuta Jingu Shrine, Nagoya Castle, and Tokoname’s ceramic-lined footpaths. Enjoy shopping in lively neighborhoods like Osu and Sakae, with time to savor regional specialties and seasonal treats.a.
- Okinawa: Discover a different side of Japan as you fly south to Okinawa. Reflect at Peace Memorial Park and the Himeyuri Museum, explore the royal legacy of Shuri Castle, and take in ocean views at scenic Manzamo. Visit the colorful Churaumi Aquarium and experience Ryukyu culture through hands-on crafts and local markets.
- Culinary Experiences: Enjoy daily breakfasts, hearty local lunches, and flavorful dinners—from mountain cuisine in Gifu to island flavors in Okinawa. Dine at local favorites, including a multi-course welcome meal, Okinawan-style dinners, and hotel buffets featuring regional specialties.
- Relaxed Travel Style: Travel comfortably with a bilingual tour leader from Honolulu and expert local guide throughout Japan. Fly roundtrip with Japan Airlines, enjoy well-paced days with a balance of guided sightseeing and free time, and unwind with multi-night stays in each region—including rejuvenating onsen hotels and centrally located Okinawa resorts.
Perfect for:
- Travelers seeking a thoughtful blend of culture, comfort, and seasonal contrast—from snow-dusted villages to sunny island shores.
- Wellness seekers dreaming of Japan’s onsen culture, with nights spent at rejuvenating hot spring resorts in Takayama.
- Cultural enthusiasts eager to experience traditional swordsmithing, kimono dressing, and hands-on Ryukyu crafts in Okinawa.
- Curious explorers looking to discover both iconic sites and hidden gems, including Shirakawago, Shuri Castle, and Tokoname’s pottery paths.
- Food lovers excited to taste their way through Japan—from mountain fare and handmade udon to Okinawan island cuisine.
Join us for the Onsen & Okinawa Heritage Tour in 2026 and experience the perfect balance of cultural discovery, seasonal contrast, and soul-soothing relaxation. From the snowy onsens of Gifu and the preserved beauty of Takayama to the coastal charm and vibrant traditions of Okinawa, this journey invites you to slow down, soak in, and savor the rich spirit of Japan—at a pace designed to refresh and inspire.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
10 NIGHTS / 11 DAYS IN JAPAN
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Day 0 – February 17, 2026 (Tuesday): Departure from Honolulu
- Your journey begins as you meet your tour leader and fellow travelers at Honolulu Airport. With excitement in the air, board your nonstop Japan Airlines flight and prepare for a unique adventure through Japan’s mountain traditions and island spirit.
Day 1 – February 18, 2026 (Wednesday): Arrival in Nagoya
- Touch down in Nagoya and walk straight into comfort at your airport hotel. As the city quiets into the evening, enjoy a light bento dinner and settle in—your journey is just beginning.
- Hotel: Centrair Hotel
- Meals: Dinner (bento box)
Day 2 – February 19, 2026 (Thursday): Swords, Kimono & Hot Springs
- Step into Japan’s living heritage as you visit a traditional swordsmith in Seki and try on an elegant uchikake kimono. After lunch and a stroll through the nostalgic streets of Mino, head into the mountains and let the warmth of a natural onsen melt away the day.
- Hotel: Takayama Green Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – February 20, 2026 (Friday): Morning Markets & World Heritage Magic
- Wake up in charming Takayama and begin your day browsing its lively morning market. Meander through the preserved merchant town before heading to the fairytale village of Shirakawago, where thatched rooftops and snow-lined streets feel like a scene from the past.
- Hotel: Takayama Green Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – February 21, 2026 (Saturday): Mountain Views & Illuminated Nights
- Discover the rhythm of Gujo Hachiman through dance and tradition, then ascend by ropeway for sweeping views of winter’s beauty. As evening falls, stroll beneath the dazzling lights of Nabana no Sato—a glowing garden of seasonal wonder.
- Hotel: Ibis Styles Nagoya
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – February 22, 2026 (Sunday): Spiritual Sites & City Life
- Explore Nagoya’s sacred spaces and elegant landmarks—from the grandeur of Atsuta Shrine to the moats of Nagoya Castle. Wander through bustling shopping streets and gardens before ending the day with a satisfying local meal.
- Hotel: Ibis Styles Nagoya
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – February 23, 2026 (Monday): From Clay Paths to Coral Shores
- This morning, follow Tokoname’s pottery path, where ceramic walls tell stories of craft and time. Then take off for Okinawa, where the air grows warm and the sea welcomes you with open arms. Tonight, toast your arrival with a relaxing dinner in Naha.
- Hotel: Hotel Collective
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 – February 24, 2026 (Tuesday): Memory & Movement
- Trace Okinawa’s complex past at Peace Memorial Park and the Himeyuri Museum, followed by a moving visit to the Former Navy Underground HQ. Then shift to a lighter rhythm with free time at American Village, where seaside cafés and sunset views await.
- Hotel: Hotel Nikko Alivila
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 – February 25, 2026 (Wednesday): Traditions by the Sea
- Step into island life at Ryukyu Village, where music, crafts, and dance preserve Okinawa’s vibrant culture. Then spend your afternoon at Churaumi Aquarium and gaze out over the sea from the windswept cliffs of Manzamo.
- Hotel: Hotel Nikko Alivila
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 – February 26, 2026 (Thursday): Dyeing, Castles & Coral Caves
- Try your hand at traditional Ryukyuan dyeing before stepping into the regal legacy of Shuri Castle. Cap the day with a visit to Okinawa World—where limestone caves and cultural exhibitions deepen your connection to the island’s spirit.
- Hotel: Hotel Collective
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 – February 27, 2026 (Friday): A Day Just for You
- Today is yours. Lounge by the pool, shop for keepsakes, or take a seaside stroll through Okinawa’s relaxed rhythm. With no scheduled tours, enjoy the freedom to savor your final full day at your own pace.
- Hotel: Hotel Collective
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 – February 28, 2026 (Saturday): Homeward Bound
- After a quiet morning, check out and head to the airport. Fly first to Nagoya, then connect to your international flight. Return home with memories steeped in culture, nature, and the healing spirit of Japan.
- Meals: Breakfast
Celebrate the beauty, contrast, and spirit of Japan on our exclusive Onsen & Okinawa Heritage Tour 2026. From the snow-kissed hot springs of Takayama and the timeless charm of Shirakawago to the tropical breeze and cultural rhythm of Okinawa, this journey is a soulful blend of tradition, relaxation, and discovery. Let us handle the details while you soak in mountain views, savor island flavors, and explore the rich layers of Japan—one season, one region, one moment at a time.
This thoughtfully crafted journey allows you to unwind, embrace the rhythm of each region, and fully experience the soothing onsen, timeless heritage, and natural beauty of Japan—from the serene mountains of Gifu to the coastal calm of Okinawa. With every detail taken care of, all you have to do is relax, explore, and enjoy the changing seasons at your own pace.
Experience the beauty and contrast of Japan in comfort and confidence on the Onsen & Okinawa Heritage Tour 2026, limited to just 30 guests. Travel with a Honolulu-based tour leader and experienced English-speaking local guides who will be by your side throughout the journey. From seamless logistics to a well-paced itinerary, we’ll take care of every detail—so you can soak in Gifu’s healing hot springs, wander the preserved streets of Takayama and Shirakawago, and embrace the vibrant culture and coastal charm of Okinawa.
Pricing
Full Package
$5,090
Land Package
$3,990
Single Add
$1,100
Upgrade (Premium Economy)
$1,000
Early Bird Special: Save $100 when you’re one of the first 10 to sign up!
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Land package only; international and domestic airfare not included. Single occupancy supplement applies. Customers must provide confirmed flight details to their travel consultant for itinerary coordination. Upgrade to Premium Economy available upon request; limited availability. All prices, inclusions, and itinerary details are subject to change without notice.
The Sights and Activities
From soaking in the quiet magic of standing beneath Gujo Hachiman Castle surrounded by snow-covered trees, each moment invites you deeper into Japan’s winter soul. Witness the sparks fly during a live katanakaji swordsmith demonstration in Seki—a centuries-old craft still burning bright. Then trade snowy silence for sea and sun as you watch the sky melt into color at Cape Manzamo and try your hand at coral dyeing, a vibrant Okinawan tradition passed down through generations. These are the moments—raw, beautiful, and unforgettable—that define your Onsen & Okinawa heritage journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s included in the Land Package?
A: The Land Package includes 10 nights of accommodations, 27 meals (10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners), guided sightseeing with entrance fees, transportation within Japan (excluding domestic flights), onsen experiences, baggage handling, and the services of a Honolulu-based tour leader and local English-speaking guides.
Q: Is airfare included in the tour price?
A: Airfare is included only in the Full Package Price, which covers roundtrip international flights from Honolulu to Japan and roundtrip domestic flight from Nagoya to Okinawa. Guests booking the Land Package only must purchase their own flights and provide full flight details to their travel consultant for coordination.
Q: Can I upgrade my flights?
A: Yes, upgrades to Premium Economy are available with the Full Package on a request basis. Availability is limited and subject to airline confirmation, so we recommend requesting early.
Q: What kind of accommodations are provided?
A: This tour involves moderate walking, often on uneven surfaces, in castle grounds, gardens, old towns, and rural villages. Participants should be comfortable walking for extended periods and standing during cultural site visits.
Q: What types of meals are included?
A: Daily breakfast is included along with a variety of local lunches and dinners, featuring seasonal Japanese cuisine. Meals range from casual bentos to set-course meals and hotel buffets. Please inform us in advance of any dietary needs.
Q: Will there be free time during the tour?
A: Yes. Built-in free time is included in Nagoya and Okinawa, with a full free day in Okinawa to shop, relax, or explore at your leisure.
Q: Is this tour good for first-time visitors to Japan?
A: Yes. With a fully guided itinerary, cultural depth, and a relaxed pace, this tour is perfect for both first-timers and returning travelers looking to explore beyond the typical city routes.
Q: How many people will be on this tour?
A: The group is limited to a maximum of 30 guests to ensure a more personal and comfortable experience.
Q: Can I join the tour from Japan or another location?
A: Yes, land-only pricing is available for travelers who do not need airfare from Honolulu. Please connect with a travel consultant for more details.
Q: Do I need travel insurance?
A: Travel insurance is not included but is strongly recommended to protect your trip investment from unexpected delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
