top of page
jezael-melgoza-NiyRORf8d8I-unsplash_edited.jpg

From the south to Tokyo

This journey through South-West Japan takes you from the laid-back energy of Fukuoka to the artistic calm of Naoshima and the timeless beauty of Kyoto. Along the way, you’ll explore port cities with layered histories like Nagasaki, unwind in the wide-open landscapes of Mt. Aso, and wander through charming towns like Onomichi and Kanazawa, each with its own rhythm and surprises.

 

We’ve woven in both well-loved highlights and quiet moments off the tourist path — with plenty of space to slow down, notice the details, and really feel the atmosphere of each place. From food stalls to hidden temples, local art to mountain views, this itinerary is about more than just seeing Japan — it’s about experiencing it, in a way that feels personal and grounded. The journey ends in Tokyo, where the energy picks up again — a vibrant, layered metropolis where you can dive into the contrasts of tradition and innovation, or simply stay a bit longer and keep discovering.

 

Note: All travels to Japan will be custom made based on your preferences, budget and timeframe. This is just an example to show you what you could possibly do when going to Japan

From 3,500 EUR per person (excl. flight)

19 Days (18 nights)

Day 1 - 3 | Fukuoka

Your journey starts in Fukuoka, the lively gateway to Kyushu. It’s a city that we surprisingly quickly fell in love with, it's compact, friendly, and known for its food. The yatai (street food stalls) along the river come alive in the evenings, serving simple but soulful dishes like Hakata ramen.
It’s also a great place to ease into Japan — everything is accessible, and the laid-back atmosphere helps you settle in without the rush of bigger cities.

Day 3 - 5 | Nagasaki

Nagasaki carries a quiet depth, shaped by a long history of international exchange and tragedy. You’ll find a thoughtful balance here — beautiful hillside views, peaceful temples, and moving memorials.
From Dejima to Glover Garden, this city tells many layered stories — it leaves an impression that lingers. And the local food, like champon and castella cake, reflects its mixed heritage.

Day 5 - 6 | Kumamoto

Kumamoto is most known for its impressive castle, one of the largest in Japan. But what we love is the balance between history and the more down-to-earth local life. You won’t find flashy tourism here — just a very livable city with welcoming people.
It’s a good moment in the journey to take things slower — enjoy a stroll through the reconstructed castle grounds or grab a bowl of Kumamoto-style tonkotsu ramen, slightly richer and garlic-forward.

Day 6 - 8 | Mt. Aso

This is where the landscape opens up. Mount Aso is home to one of the largest active calderas in the world, and the drive through the grassy plains and rolling hills is something we still think about often.
Staying in a quiet countryside ryokan, soaking in an onsen with a mountain view, or walking along open paths — here, nature isn’t just scenery, it’s part of your day.

Day 8 - 10 | Onomichi

Onomichi is a coastal town full of charm. Hillside temples, narrow alleys, cats, and small cafés with views over the Seto Inland Sea — it’s a place to wander.
There’s a gentle pace to life here that feels rare. We recommend taking the ropeway up and walking down the Temple Walk, where surprises — tiny shrines, artists’ studios — hide around each corner.

Day 10 - 11 | Okayama

Often passed by, but definitely worth the stop. Okayama is home to one of Japan’s top gardens (Korakuen) and a striking black castle.
Beyond the city, we love visiting Kurashiki’s historical canal district or the Bizen pottery village for a more tactile look at tradition. It’s one of those places where a day can feel quietly full.

Day 11 - 13 | Naoshima

A small island with big ideas. Naoshima is famous for its contemporary art museums and outdoor installations — and even if you're not "into art," the whole experience is memorable.
The island itself is part of the art — minimalist architecture by Tadao Ando blends into the landscape, and quiet fishing villages coexist with world-class galleries. It’s one of the most surprising places in Japan.

Day 13 - 15 | Kyoto

Even after many visits, Kyoto always has more to offer. While it's known for its temples and traditions, we love helping people discover the quieter corners — a garden with no one else around, a teahouse tucked in a side street, or a peaceful morning walk along the river.
Yes, some areas are busy — but just a few steps away, you can find moments of stillness that feel almost timeless. It’s a city that rewards slow travel and open eyes.

Day 15 - 17 | Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a city of craftsmanship. From gold leaf workshops to samurai houses and beautifully preserved districts, it’s a place where tradition still feels very alive.
We enjoy how walkable and relaxed it is — you can start the day in a modern museum and end it in a tea house in the geisha district, with everything in between feeling effortlessly connected.

Day 17 - 19 | Tokyo

You end in Tokyo, Japan’s ever-changing capital. It can feel overwhelming at first, but we like to show people that it’s really a city of neighborhoods — each with its own character, rhythm, and stories.
From serene morning shrines to hidden izakaya and ultramodern design shops, Tokyo isn’t just a place you see — it’s a place you tune into. Two days only scratch the surface; if you have the time, it’s a city that rewards staying longer — there’s always something new to discover.

bottom of page