Taste of the Japan Sea Tour 2026 – Yamaguchi Tottori Kyoto
Taste of the Japan Sea Tour: where Tradition, Nature, and Tranquility Meet
Discover Japan’s scenic coastline through a thoughtfully curated journey—featuring ancient shrines, local cuisine, and relaxing onsen stays.
Journey through the captivating Japan Sea region, far off the typical tourist path, where stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and authentic local experiences await. Begin in Kitakyushu, exploring the historic Moji Port Retro Area before heading to Yamaguchi, where you’ll visit the iconic Motonosumi Inari Shrine and its many red torii gates, plus browse the bustling Karato Ichiba Fish Market. From there, travel to Matsue, where you’ll visit the ancient Izumo Taisha Shrine, stroll through the tranquil streets, and explore the historic Matsue Castle, one of the country’s “Three Great Lake Castles”.
Next, travel to Tottori, where you’ll enjoy the serene beauty of Shinjiko Lake and experience the vast expanse of the Tottori Sand Dunes. Afterward, unwind in Kinosaki Onsen, known for its seven unique hot springs, and indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner. Continue your journey to Kyoto, where you’ll visit the picturesque Amanohashidate “Bridge to Heaven”, enjoy a scenic boat cruise through the traditional boathouses of Ine no Funaya, and conclude your adventure with a deluxe farewell dinner. With breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and warm hospitality, this tour offers the perfect mix of exploration, relaxation, and seasonal gourmet delicacies.
Destination Highlights for the Taste of the Japan Sea Tour
Fukuoka – Kitakyushu – Shimonoseki – Shimane – Tottori – Kinosaki Onsen – Kyoto – and more!
What’s included on the Taste of the Japan Sea Tour:
- Comfortable, smooth flights with Japan Airlines (Full Package only)
- Expert English-speaking local guide and tour leader from Honolulu who are passionate about sharing the rich culture and history of the Japan Sea region.
- A private professional driver and full-sized bus to spread out and relax in transit between adventures.
- Authentic cultural experiences such as traditional kaiseki dining, local craft shopping, and visits to historical sites like Izumo Taisha (one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines) and Matsue Castle (one of only a few remaining original castles).
- Relaxing stays at top-rated hotels and onsen (hot springs resorts), including renowned Kinosaki Onsen, and other coastal towns.
- 23 fantastic meals, featuring incredibly fresh, regional and seasonal delicacies, including a deluxe crab kaiseki dinner!
- Portable Pocket WiFi to stay connected to family and friends back home (an HIS exclusive!)
Key Highlights:
- Kitakyushu: Explore Moji Port Retro Area and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this historic district.
- Yamaguchi: Visit Motonosumi Inari Shrine with its stunning red torii gates, and shop for fresh seafood at Karato Ichiba Fish Market. Discover Akiyoshido Cave and Akiyoshidai Observatory, and enjoy strawberry picking and onsen experiences.
- Matsue & Izumo: Visit Izumo Taisha Shrine, Matsue Castle, and take a scenic sightseeing train along the shores of Lake Shinji.
- Tottori: Experience the UNESCO Geopark Tottori Sand Dunes, visit the Sand Museum, plus discover the unique 21st Century Pear Museum, dedicated to the prefecture’s famous produce.
- Kinosaki Onsen: Relax in Kinosaki Onsen’s seven public hot springs and indulge in traditional kaiseki meals.
- Kyoto: Explore the stunning Amanohashidate sandbar, known as one of Japan’s “Three Most Scenic Views”, and enjoy a lovely boat cruise through Ine Bay to discover the traditional funaya wooden boathouses. Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner in central Kyoto, the cultural hub of Japan, where history and modern conveniences meet. You’ll have a full free day to explore this fascinating city at your own pace!
Tour Itinerary
9 NIGHTS / 10 DAYS IN JAPAN
🌊Click here to see your Taste of the Japan Sea Tour Experience🌊
**Hotels subject to change in case of unexpected circumstances
Day 0 – December 04 (Friday): Departure & Group Meeting
- Your journey begins as you gather at Honolulu International Airport. Meet your tour leader and fellow travelers at the Japan Airlines check-in counters and board your comfortable flight to Kyushu via Tokyo-Haneda, the gateway to your adventure along the Japan Sea coast.
Day 1 – December 05 (Saturday): Arrival in Japan
- After transiting through Tokyo-Haneda, arrive in Fukuoka in the evening, where the warm glow of the city welcomes you. Rest up for the incredible sights, meals, and experiences that lie ahead.
- Hotel: Hotel Monte Hermana Fukuoka
- Meals included: Two meals served onboard the JAL international flight
Day 2 – December 06 (Sunday): Kitakyushu to Yamaguchi
- Begin your day with a stroll through the picturesque Moji Port Retro Area, then dive into local culture with a visit to the vibrant Karato Ichiba Fish Market. In the afternoon, explore the majestic Motonosumi Inari Shrine, home to brilliant vermillion torii gates, and end the day soaking in hot springs at your hotel.
- Hotel: Hotel Nishinagato Resort ♨️
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – December 07 (Monday): Over to Shimane
- Delve into the depths of Akiyoshido Cave, where stalactites and stalagmites create a true natural wonder. Stop by Rurikoji Temple before heading to a nearby fruit farm for hands-on delicious strawberry picking. Enjoy an exquisite kaiseki dinner while relaxing in the soothing onsen tonight.
- Hotel: Hotel Gyokusen ♨️
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – December 08 (Tuesday): Mastue and surroundings
- Savor the relaxed atmosphere of Tamatsukuri Onsen town, then drink in the spiritual grandeur of Izumo Taisha Shrine, among the country’s oldest and most important Shinto sites. Journey by scenic train along the shore of Lake Shinji to reach picturesque Matsue Castle, called one of Japan’s “Three Great Lake Castles”.
- Hotel: Hotel Gyokusen ♨️
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – December 09 (Wednesday): Up to Tottori
- Explore the stunning Adachi Museum, renowned for its impeccable Japanese gardens. Browse the Sakai Port Fish Market, then enjoy a quirky visit to Mizuki Shigeru Ghost Road, full of fantastical bronze statues, before capping your day with a sake brewery tour and tasting.
- Hotel: Mercure Daisen Resort ♨️
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – December 10 (Thursday): Discovering Tottori
- Peruse traditional sweets at a confectionary and stroll Kurayoshi Castle Town. Visit the 21st Century Pear Museum (showcasing Tottori’s famous produce, and Japan’s only museum dedicated to the Asian Pear), then move to the UNESCO Geopark Tottori Sand Dunes and neighboring Sand Museum housing amazing sand art installations.
- Hotel: Hotel New Otani Tottori
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 – December 11 (Friday): Charming Kinosaki Onsen
- Find local omiyage at Michi-no-Eki Amarube, plus don’t miss the observatory for panoramic views, then explore the basalt Genbudo Cave and its accompanying museum. Arrive at enchanting Kinosaki Onsen, famed for its seven public baths, and take a peaceful stroll through the town’s scenic streets at your own pace.
- Hotel: Shinzan Kinosaki ♨️
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 – December 12 (Saturday): Down to Kyoto
- Sail through Ine Bay, home to iconic wooden boathouses called funaya, on a short cruise, then take in the stunning views of Amanohashidate sandbar, one of Japan’s “Three Scenic Views”, by riding a cable car lift. Arrive in Kyoto and celebrate your trip with a memorable farewell dinner.
- Hotel: Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 – December 13 (Sunday): Free Day in Kyoto
- Enjoy a leisurely free day to explore the cultural richness of Kyoto at your own pace. Visit historic temples, stroll through charming neighborhoods, or shop for souvenirs and local delicacies.
- Hotel: Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
- Meals included: Breakfast
Day 10 – December 14 (Monday): Return to Honolulu
- Savor your final breakfast and enjoy a relaxed late checkout, with hotel rooms available until your departure to the airport. Move to Kansai International Airport, then take a nonstop flight with Japan Airlines back to Honolulu, carrying home your cherished memories of the Japan Sea coast’s scenic wonders and warm hospitality.
- Meals included: Breakfast, plus two meals onboard the JAL flight
This carefully crafted tour handles every detail, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and tranquility of the Japan Sea region.
Pricing
Full Package
Land Package
Single Supplement
*includes economy-class air tickets. Please inquire for upgrade information.
$4,990.00*
$3,990.00 **
$1,500.00
**international & domestic airfare not included
**customer must provide flight details to travel consultant for confirmation
Early-booking Special Offer:
SAVE $100 by being one of the first ten participants!
Here are just a few of the sights and activities you’ll enjoy:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How big are the tour groups?
A: This group is limited in size (30 participants) to ensure the best accommodations and restaurants, a comfortable pace, and personalized service from your guide and escort.
Q: What kind of accommodations can I expect?
A: You’ll stay in a mix of modern hotels and traditional onsen ryokan, offering both comfort and cultural immersion. Many of the properties feature hot spring baths and regional cuisine.
Q: Are all meals included?
A: The tour includes 23 exceptional meals: 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners. Meals during free time are on your own so you can explore local specialties at your own pace.
Q: Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
A: Absolutely! We can accommodate all types of guests on this tour. If you require special consideration, such as a wheelchair, please let us know in advance.
Q: Will there be free time during the tour?
A: Yes. While the itinerary is full of scenic and cultural highlights, there is free time built in, including a full free day in Kyoto, so you can explore at your own pace.
Q: Are flights included?
A: Yes, roundtrip international tickets between Honolulu to Japan, plus the short domestic flight to Fukuoka, are included in the Full Package. If you would like to arrange your own airfare or are interested in extending your dates in Japan, you can select the Land Package.
Q: What kind of weather can we expect in December?
A: December along the Japan Sea coast is generally cool and crisp, with average highs in the upper 40s to mid-50s °F (8–13°C). Some areas may experience light snow, especially in mountainous regions like Kinosaki.
TASTE OF THE JAPAN SEA TOUR 2026
