World Heritage Autumn Tour: A Journey Through Japan’s Timeless Beauty

Visit Nagoya, UNESCO World Heritage sites Mt. Fuji and Shirakawago Village, Gero Onsen, plus many more, all while enjoying exclusive cultural experiences.

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Discover the magic of Japan this autumn with our exclusive World Heritage Autumn Tour, designed to immerse you in the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural traditions of this captivating country. Over 10 unforgettable days, you’ll explore everything from Nagoya’s historic landmarks to the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, all while being surrounded by Japan’s renowned autumn foliage.

This carefully crafted journey combines heritage sites, natural wonders, and cultural experiences, giving you the perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re soaking in the serene waters of Gero Onsen, wandering through ancient temples and shrines, or savoring local delicacies, each day of the tour offers a new adventure waiting to be experienced.

What’s Included:

• Comfortable, smooth flights with Japan Airlines (Full Package only)
• Expert English-speaking local guides and a professional tour escort from Honolulu
• A private professional driver and full-sized bus to spread out and relax in transit between adventures
• UNESCO World Heritage sites Shirakawago Village and Mt. Fuji, among Japan’s most iconic destinations
• Relaxing stays at exceptional hotels and onsen (hot springs) resorts
• 23 fantastic meals, featuring regional and seasonal delicacies, including multiple premium kaiseki dinners.
• Portable Pocket WiFi to stay connected to family and friends back home (an HIS exclusive!)

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Key Highlights:

• Nagoya: Explore towering Nagoya Castle, the city’s most famous landmark, plus the brilliant lights of Nabana no Sato autumn illumination event.
• Gero Onsen: Unwind in one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, with soothing baths and delicious kaiseki dinners.
• Kurobe Valley: Ride the open-air Torokko sightseeing train as it winds atop the edge of a river gorge, drinking in the spectacular autumn colors of the surrounding forest. Keep your eyes peeled for wild monkeys scampering next to the tracks!
• Mt. Fuji & Hakone: Get awe-inspiring views of world-famous Mt. Fuji from multiple vantage points, including during a “pirate ship” cruise across Lake Ashi, and soak in the steaming hot springs of Hakone.
• Shirakawa-go & Takayama: Discover UNESCO World Heritage site Shirakawago Village, the country’s finest example of traditional gassho-zukuri thatched roof construction. Stroll through the charming historical town of Takayama, often called “Little Kyoto” in a nod to its serene streets and preserved architecture.
• Pick exceptionally sweet apples right off the tree at a local orchard in Nagano. Japan is renowned for the quality of its produce and this is your chance to try it for yourself!
• Feel the richness of the country’s culture through hands-on activities that let you meet local residents and learn from experienced artisans. Learn how to make your own delicious soba from scratch, sample different types of miso soup at a specialty store, and even try a hands-on Edo Kirikko glass carving activity. You’ll definitely treasure this unique omiyage souvenir!
• Relax with a full free day in Tokyo to do any last-minute shopping or enjoy certain foods you’ve always wanted to try, all at your own pace! You can also add an optional day tour if you’d prefer. Ask us for suggestions!

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Tour Itinerary

9 NIGHTS / 10 DAYS IN JAPAN

🍁 Click here to see your World Heritage Autumn Tour Experience🍁

Day 0 – November 5 (Thursday): Departure & Group Meeting

• Begin your journey with excitement as you meet your fellow travelers at Honolulu Airport. Relax before your flight to Japan with Japan Airlines (JAL), where your cultural adventure awaits.

Day 1 – November 6 (Friday): Arrival in Nagoya

• You’ll land in Nagoya in the evening and meet your guide. After transferring to your hotel and checking in, enjoy a bento dinner to unwind and prepare for the days ahead.
  • Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Nagoya
  • Meals included: Bento box dinner plus two meals served onboard the plane

Day 2 – November 7 (Saturday): Exploring Nagoya

• Discover the deep history of Nagoya with visits to Atsuta Jingu Shrine and Nagoya Castle. Take a scenic ride on the Gozaisho Ropeway for stunning autumn views, and marvel at the dazzling Nabana-no-Sato Illumination in the evening.

Day 3 – November 8 (Sunday): Korankei, Obara Shiki Zakura & Gero Onsen

• Experience the tranquility of Korankei Valley and the beauty of four-season cherry blossoms at Obara Shiki Zakura. Later, relax in the healing waters of Gero Onsen, followed by a delectable kaiseki dinner.

Day 4 – November 9 (Monday): Takayama, Shirakawa-go & Unazuki Onsen

• Explore the charming streets of Takayama and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go. After a relaxing soak in Unazuki Onsen, enjoy a buffet dinner and prepare for the next adventure.

Day 5 – November 10 (Tuesday): Kurobe Valley, Torocco Train, Apple Picking & Nagano

• Enjoy a scenic ride aboard the Kurobe Valley Torocco Train before trying your hand at apple picking in the countryside. End the day with a cozy stay in Nagano and a delightful Japanese-Italian dinner.

Day 6 – November 11 (Wednesday): Daio Wasabi Farm, Matsumoto, Mt. Fuji Glimpse & Kawaguchi-ko

• Taste fresh wasabi at the Daio Wasabi Farm and participate in a fun soba-making experience. Enjoy a view of Matsumoto Castle and a scenic glimpse of Mt. Fuji before unwinding with a kaiseki dinner.

Day 7 – November 12 (Thursday): Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai, Owakudani, Lake Ashi & Hakone

• Admire Mt. Fuji’s grandeur from Oishi Park, visit Oshino Hakkai’s crystal-clear ponds, and take a Pirate Cruise on Lake Ashi. End the day at your onsen hotel with stunning views of the mountain.

Day 8 – November 13 (Friday): Kamakura, Yokohama & Tokyo

• Explore Kamakura’s Great Buddha, stroll through Yokohama’s Red Brick Warehouse, and discover Tokyo’s Edo Kiriko glass-carving craft. A delicious Crab Kaiseki dinner awaits you in the evening.

Day 9 – November 14 (Saturday): Free Day in Tokyo

• Explore Tokyo at your own pace. Whether shopping in Shibuya or enjoying the tranquility of Ueno Park, today is yours to discover the city.

Day 10 – November 15 (Sunday): Return to Honolulu

• Before your flight, shop for souvenirs or relax at Haneda Airport. Then, enjoy your non-stop flight home, filled with memories of Japan’s autumn wonders.

This brilliantly colorful autumn journey takes care of every detail, so you can fully relax and immerse yourself in Japan’s exceptional foliage-filled beauty, plus cultural experiences, gourmet cuisine, and comforting onsen (hot springs) retreats.

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Q: What will the weather be like?

A: Autumn in central Japan is usually pleasant and refreshing. Average high temperatures for Nagoya in the middle of November are in the high 50s during the day, with a low in the mid-40s at night.

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: What UNESCO World Heritage sites will we visit on this tour?

A: You’ll visit iconic UNESCO sites like Shirakawago Village, Nagoya Castle, and Mt. Fuji, along with other historical and natural landmarks throughout the tour.

Q: Is this tour suitable for families or young children?

A: Yes! This tour offers a mix of cultural and outdoor experiences that can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages. Families, especially those interested in history and nature, will find the itinerary engaging and enjoyable.

Q: How many people are typically in the group?

A: The World Heritage Autumn Tour is an intimate group experience, with a maximum of 30 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more comfortable, relaxed experience.

Q: Will there be free time to explore on my own?

A: Yes! There are periods of unstructured time built into the itinerary, including a full free day in Tokyo.

Q: Are all meals included in the tour?

A: The tour includes 23 exceptional meals: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 8 dinners. Meals during free time are on your own so you can explore local specialties at your own pace.

Q: What kind of accommodations are included?

A: You’ll stay in a mix of premium, modern hotels and traditional onsen (hot springs) resorts, all carefully selected for comfort, location, and atmosphere.

Q: Are flights included?

A: Yes, roundtrip international airfare from Honolulu to Japan, plus the domestic flights to/from Hokkaido, 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: How do I book this tour?

A: Booking is easy! Contact us at 808-922-2211, visit our store at the Ala Moana Center, or contact us through the link at the bottom of this page. Be sure to secure your place soon as space is limited to only 30 participants!

Tour Flyer (PDF Download)

Tour Application Form (PDF Download)

Tour Terms and Conditions Form (PDF Download)