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Fully Escorted
Local Cuisine
Handpicked Hotels
Private Transportation
No Options Sold
5 days 4 nights
fromUSD $1898.00
Single Supplement: USD $360.00
Single Room
Single room types are rooms for
single room occupants.
One person will be occupying the
hotel room throughout the tour.
Twin Room
Twin room types are rooms set for two people who will occupy one room, but will have two separate beds.
Double Room
A double room is a room that has one bed for two people to share.
Triple Room
A triple room is one room where three people may share the same room. It has three separate beds.
Japanese Style Room
A Japanese-style room traditionally does not have a western-style bed, it is a tatami floor room with futon bedding. However, if you prefer a western-style bed, you may request one though we cannot guarantee it.
Please note: If you would like to request neighboring rooms next to your traveling companions, you and your traveling companions must have the same room types in order to be next to each other. For example, if you have requested a double room, but your traveling companions have requested a twin, or triple room, then neighboring rooms cannot be accommodated. However, if both you and your traveling companions match in room type, then neighboring rooms will likely be arranged for your convenience.
Go Beyond Tokyo on an enchanting Autumn Tour with
All Japan Tours! An ideal itinerary for returning travelers
to Japan, our Beyond Tokyo series takes you to
destinations outside this most touristed of cities during
the spectacular autumn season, offering the chance for
an authentic countryside experience. The tour includes
must-see destinations at Nikko, Takasaki, Matsumoto,
and Karuizawa, and features the delightful snow
monkeys of Yudanaka.
Begin your tour heading out from Tokyo to the sacred
city of Nikko - a fantastic place to be in the fall, home to
palatial Toshogu Shrine and nearby Rinnoji Temple,
which are protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Take in the picturesque beauties of Lake Chuzenji and
Kegon Falls, before we travel to Karuizawa via Takasaki,
. This resort town offers such delights as the magnificent
architecture of the Stone Church, and the exhibits at the
Karuizawa Museum of Contemporary Art. Then we
depart to Yudanaka, to the charming hot springs at
Jigokudani, to spy on the groups of Japanese
macaques, also called Snow Monkeys, as they enjoy
their mid-morning bath. Before returning to Tokyo via
high-speed bullet train, we stop at Matusmoto to behold
the imposing fortress keep of Matsumoto Castle - one of
Japan's 12 original castles. It's also called Crow Castle
for its jet black exterior.
Take a trip Beyond Tokyo to explore the charming
delights of the Nikko, Karuizawa, and Yudanaka regions
in autumn. Transportation for the tour is facilitated by
our comfortable and convenient private coaches, and
you will be accompanied by a friendly, professional
English-speaking guide. Please feel free to browse our
detailed itinerary below for more information.
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Please Note:
All prices are per person, based on twin (double on
request) or triple occupancy.
International flights are
not included on our tours - this allows you the flexibility to
choose your own departure and get the best value for your
money!
We can arrange international flights for
US customers if needed, please ask for details.
We require US$200 deposit per person to hold the space at time of booking and the final payment is due 2 month prior to departure.
Travel by private coach between destinations, hassle free baggage handling.
This tour starts and finishes in Tokyo for arrivals and departures at Narita Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND).
Vegetarian or special meals can be arranged.
Please note that the meet and greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY available on the first day of the tour after 11 AM. If you plan to stay extra nights before the start of the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to your hotel on your own.
Click here for detailed itinerary
Tour schedule and prices subject to change without notice
Welcome to Tokyo! You will be met at the arrival gate by an AJT representative holding an "All Japan Tours" sign.
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro or similar class
NOTE 1: The meet and greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY available on the first day of the tour after 11 AM. If you plan to stay extra nights before the start of the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to your hotel on your own.
NOTE 2: If you wish to stay extra nights before the tour starts, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
After breakfast, we depart for Nikko, first to explore Rinnoji Temple. It's Treasure House contains Buddhist statues and sutras which Japan considers National Treasures, and the picturesque Shoyoen Garden flushed with gorgeous fall foliage. Nearby is Toshogu Shrine, Nikko's most famous historic site and a symbol of the city. It is one of Japan's most opulent shrines, and contains famous carvings of the Three Wise Monkeys and the Sleeping Cat. We go from there to breathtaking Kegon Falls - one of Japan's most spectacular waterfalls, which cascades out from Lake Chuzenji down into a picturesque mountain gorge. We then walk around Lake Chuzenji, known for its spectacular autumn colors surrounding Fuji-esque Mount Nantai - one of the sacred mountains of Nikko.
Kinugawa Onsen Hotel or similar class
In the morning, we depart Nikko for the resort town of Karuizawa via the town of Takasaki, where we visit Shorinzan Daruma Temple, which is known for the making and painting of Daruma dolls. Try your hand at painting a Daruma Doll for yourself during a Daruma Painting Experience. We then continue on to Karuizawa. Discover the unique Stone Church, a beautiful church building of dynamic construction, featuring overlapping arches of grey stone and glass. Then we visit the Karuizawa Museum of Contemporary Art, which celebrates Japanese artists who gained popularity outside Japan, including Yukimasa Ida, Yayoi Kusama, and many others. We continue from there to Yudanaka, and your Japanese-style accommodation at Ryokan Biyu-no-Yado.
Ryokan Biyu no Yado or similar class
After breakfast, the tour continues to Yudanaka, the home of Japan's famous bathing Snow Monkeys. At the hot springs of Jigokudani, groups of snow monkeys, also called Japanese macaques, can be found bathing all year round. You can watch groups of them relaxing in the hot springs, grooming each other, and creating perfect picture opportunities. Then we proceed to Matsumoto to visit the city's most famous landmark – Matsumoto Castle, an imposing flatland fortress built during Japan’s Warring States period, with walls covered in pitch-black wood that give it the nickname “Crow Castle”. From there, we transfer to Tokyo via Express Train.
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro or similar class
After breakfast, our tour officially ends.
Checkout time is 11 am.
Transfer to Narita Airport or Haneda Airport by Airport
Limousine Bus.
NOTE 3: The departure airport transfer is ONLY available on the last day of the tour. If you plan to stay extra nights after the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to the airport on your own.
NOTE 4: If you would like to stay longer in Japan, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
Nikko is a city that developed around the temples that were established in the 8th century. The shrines and temples of Nikko were inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1999 for its breathtaking sceneries, magnificent craftsmanship and cultural impact. The 103 structures and nature surrounding area of Nikko is a World Heritage Site, however the most famous are the Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine and Rinnoji Temple. The Toshogu Shrine is home to the famous carving of the “See no Evil, Hear no Evil and Speak no Evil” monkeys. The Futarasan Shrine was the first Shinto shrine built and is comprised of smaller reliquaries that embody the fusion of man with nature much like the city Nikko itself. The Rinnoji Temple, which was built in 766, provided solitude for monks because of its location deep in the mountains.
Nikko's most important temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Rinnoji Temple is the family temple of the Date Clan, who ruled Sendai for many generations until the Meiji Restoration. The outer appearance of the entrance is not too spectacular, which is odd since Date Masamune favored the Momoyama style. Appearances can be deceiving because once you pass the main hall you will be greeted by Japanese style garden and three story pagoda. Visitors can stroll around the garden taking in the quiet serenity and sit on a few of the benches to relax. The trees, flowers, and plants have been meticulously maintained and the koi adds to the picturesque scenery.
Lavish mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Nikko is famous for the Toshogu Shrine, which holds the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the famous founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled for over 200 years (1603-1868). The original resting place for Tokugawa Ieyasu was much simpler in design that it is today. The construction was carried out in accordance to his father’s will by Ieyasu’s son, Hidetaba Tokugawa, in 1617. However, it was later expanded to its modern size by Ieyasu’s grandson, Tokugawa Iemitsu. The dozens of buildings were built with grandiose designs, unique with its brightly- colored carvings of animals and various types of images.
One of Japan's three most beautiful falls.
Kegon Waterfall is listed as one of the three most beautiful falls in Japan along with Nachi Waterfall in Wakayama Prefecture and Fukuroda Waterfall in Ibaraki Prefecture. It is located in Nikko and is the most famous waterfall out of the many in the area. Kegon Waterfall is about 100 meters high and is the only exit for the waters of Lake Chuzenji to exit from. The best time to see the waterfall would be in the autumn season. The surrounding foliage of Kegon Waterfall painted in fall hues is a sight not to miss.
Lake at the foot of Mount Nantai.
Lake Chuzenji is located in the mountains near Nikko at the foot of Mount Nantai and is beautiful around the autumn season. On the eastern side of the lake is a small hot spring town called Chuzenjiko Onsen. From mid to late October the nature around Lake Chuzenji is very attractive. It is around this time that the autumn colors of the trees reach their peak. Since Lake Chuzenji is a scenic body of water there is a hiking trail that goes around the entire area. It is also possible to enjoy the scenery by going on a sightseeing boat that departs from the onsen town.
Takasaki is a city in Gunma Prefecture, next to Mount Haruna. It was once the capital of Gunma prefecture and the center of the Takasaki Domain during the Edo period. It is most famous for inventing the Buddhist Daruma Doll - a representation of the Buddhist sage Bodhidarma, who founded the Zen School of Buddhism. The doll has gained fame as a personal motivator and good luck charm. Daruma originated at Shorinzan Daruma Temple, which produces and sells the doll to this day, and holds an annual festival in its honor. Takasaki is also the home of the 41.8 meter white statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and the ruins of Takasaki Castle, which served as the local seat of government in the Edo period. The city is also famous for its pasta cuisine, and each year holds a special “King of Pasta” festival where people can try various pasta dishes to determine which is the best in the city.
Shorinzan Daruma Temple in Takasaki is the birthplace of the Daruma Doll - an image of Bodhidarma, the founder of Zen Buddhism.
Shorinzan Daruma Temple is located in the city of Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture. What the temple (and the city) is most noted for is the creation and dispersal of the Daruma doll, which has gained widespread popularity throughout Japan. The image of the Daruma is based on the Buddhist sage Bodhidarma, who founded Zen Buddhism. The dolls are associated with perseverance in pursuing goals and good fortune. Daruma dolls are regularly sold with no eyes. One eye is painted on the doll with the declaration of a goal, the other is painted when the goal is achieved. The dolls are then burned at a local festival held there every year, and new dolls are purchased to commemorate the formation of new goals. In history unrelated to Daruma dolls, the Shorinzan Daruma Temple grounds were also the onetime residence of German architect Bruno Taut, who briefly lived in a building on the outskirts of Shorinzan in the 1930s.
In the Daruma Painting Experience, you will have the opportunity to try your hand at painting a little Daruma Doll - a representation of Buddhist sage Bodhidharma, who founded Zen Buddhism.
In the city of Takasaki, near Shorinzan Daruma Temple, you can learn the history of the famous Daruma dolls, and try to paint one for yourself. The Daruma Doll originated at the temple, and was made in the image of the Buddhist sage Bodhidarma, who founded the Zen school of Japanese Buddhism. Daruma dolls have become associated with ideals of perseverance in working to achieve goals and of good fortune in general, and the typical painting of a Daruma doll begins with meditating on the goal you are working towards, and painting in a single eye to signify your commitment to achieving success. The other eye is then painted on when the goal is achieved. Some workshops in the area have classes where you can paint the entire face instead of just the eyes. A broad range of colors of dolls may be offered to symbolize different goals, although red is the standard color for Daruma. It is also not uncommon to see female versions of Daruma dolls, known as "Hime Daruma", though workshops may only have you painting the standard male representation of Bodhidarma.
Karuizawa is an upscale resort town in Nagano
Prefecture, on the border of Gunma prefecture near Mount
Asama. It developed as a part of the Nakasendo Road
which connected Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo Period.
Karuizawa draws the wealthy of Japan to vacation in the
city with its refreshingly temperate summer weather, while
also offering residents and visitors alike a variety of hot
springs and outdoor recreational facilities to enjoy. It is
surrounded by beautifully scenic landscape, such as the
Karuizawa Shiraito Falls.
Karuizawa is also a popular place for weddings and
honeymoons, with architectural marvels such as the
Uchimura Kanzo Stone Church offering couples a most
picturesque location to tie the knot.
Uchimura Kanzo Memorial Stone Church is nestled in a densely forested region of Kanazawa and is a popular location for Western-style weddings.
The Uchimura Kanzo Memorial Stone Church was
designed by American architect Kendrick Kellog and built
in Kanazawa. This magnificent building was
commissioned by the followers of Uchimura Kanzo, a
Christian spiritual leader, evangelist, author, and founder
of the Japanese “Non-Church Movement”. Though
unopposed to congregational places of worship in general,
Kanzo was dissatisfied with how Christianity had
developed in the West, and the building reflects his more
“natural” philosophies in its curved arches, ribbed
skylights, and more organic layout.
This church is especially popular with young couples who
desire a Western-style wedding, and marriage services
are held here often throughout the year. The natural and
verdant aesthetic to the church makes ceremonies
especially memorable.
The Karuizawa Museum of Contemporary Art is an art museum with a focus on modern Japanese artists that have become famous internationally, such as Kusama Yayoi, Ayako Rokkaku, and Io.
The Karuizawa Museum of Contemporary Art is a modern art museum in Karuizawa, Nagano prefecture. The museum focuses on exhibitions from Japanese artists that have gained fame abroad. The museum opened in 2008 and has since been dedicated to sharing these artists’ creative genius with their visitors. The hope of the museum is that their galleries will inspire future artists who will start new movements and carry them abroad. Many types of artworks can be found in their collections, such as oil paintings, 3d art, and sculpture. Popular contemporary artists on display there include Yayoi Kusama, Shusaku Arakawa, Ayako Rokkaku, Yukimasa Ida, Nara Yoshitomo, Io, and many more. The museum contains multiple galleries, including one for special exhibitions centered on more specific themes, and there is even a museum shop that sells artbooks, stationery items, and other merchandise connected with popular artists and their works.
The Yudanaka Onsen area is known as one of Japan’s oldest and historic hot spring resort. It is also known as the main entry point into the Yamanouchi area, which is full of different tourist attractions. This old hot spring resort has seen recent development for tourist, so it gives visitors a more modern atmosphere, but still keeps that traditional onsen feeling. Visitors can enjoy any of the public baths or free foot baths available.
Japanese macaque, a species of Old World Monkey that is native to Japan.
Probably one of the most famous monkey parks in the Japan and in the world is the Jigokudani Monkey Park. The park hosts a number of Japanese Macaques (also known as the snow monkeys), and many visitors can observe them up close. There is one large hot spring pool where the monkeys gather, but visitors can still see many groups on the walk over to the pool. Guests are not allowed to touch or feed the monkeys for their own safety.
Matsumoto is located in the Nagano Prefecture and is known for one of Japan’s most popular and original castles. Many people travel to Matsumoto to view the popular Matsumoto castle, known as one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles and is one of Japan’s four National Treasure Castles. Another popular location is the Daio wasabi Farm, which is Japan’s largest wasabi farm. Matsumoto is also a popular location for people departing into Kamikochi, Norikura, or any of the popular Japanese Alps resorts locations.
One of Japan's premier historic castles, along with Himeji Castle and Kumamoto Castle.
Matsumoto is home to one of Japan’s four National Treasure Castles, the Matsumoto Castle. This castle is one of the most beautiful, and complete original castles in all of Japan compared to the other four National Treasure Castles. During the spring season, Matsumoto Castel is a very popular location to view the cherry blossoms.
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro is located 3 minutes by foot from Ikebukuro Station, a massive terminal with eight different subway and JR lines. From the station, over 17 round trip buses depart to both Narita and Haneda International Airports each day, assuring convenience for guests arriving by or planning to make a transfer by air. When setting off from the hotel, guests can easily reach popular attractions such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and Ikebukuro Café, a unique space where visitors can play with owls and other animals.
Kinugawa Onsen Hotel has more than 60 years of history serving the traditional Japanese hospitality and warmth. It was renovated in March 2006. The hotel is overlooking Kinugawa River and offers the splendid views of nature. At spa zone "Yuraku", please enjoy 2 different main baths and 10 types of theme baths.
Issanokomichi Biyunoyado is built at the heights in the old hot springs town of Yudanaka where hike poet Issa Kobayashi loved. Northern Alps can be seen in a distance and Hokushin five mountains are viewed closely. The hot spring is 100% natural spring and always flowing to heal a tired body.
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro is located 3 minutes by foot from Ikebukuro Station, a massive terminal with eight different subway and JR lines. From the station, over 17 round trip buses depart to both Narita and Haneda International Airports each day, assuring convenience for guests arriving by or planning to make a transfer by air. When setting off from the hotel, guests can easily reach popular attractions such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and Ikebukuro Café, a unique space where visitors can play with owls and other animals.
PLEASE NOTE: These are the hotels All Japan Tours generally uses on the touring styles and regions shown. There is no guarantee that you will stay in the lodgings listed on the website. We encourage you to check your travel documentation for confirmation of the exact accommodation you will be staying in.
Destinations
Nikko / Takasaki / Karuizawa / Yudanaka / Matsumoto
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Group Tour Style | Budget | Deluxe | Deluxe-Plus | Signature | Active |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
< View Tours | < View Tours | < View Tours | < View Tours | < View Tours | |
Feature | Our Budget Tours are designed for our guests who are on a limited budget. Explore the must-see sights and enjoy a hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. | Sample all Japan has to offer, from unique locales to must see tourist attractions. Our Deluxe Tours are fully guided, and use our luxury coaches for your convenience and comfort. | Experience Japanese culture at a slower pace, and with a smaller group size than our deluxe tours. Stay in each city longer so you can soak in the culture and fully appreciate the destinations. | Enjoy upgraded hotels, a slower pace, and a smaller group size for a more intimate experience. Access to a wide range of unique activities that immerse you in authentic Japanese culture. | Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. |
Advantage | Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a set of quick stops to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or if you plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys, these are the tours for you. | Our most popular tours for everyone. Fully-escorted - the most hassle-free way to visit Japan for the best value. From Hokkaido to Kyushu, the duration of our Deluxe Tours range from 5 to 27 days. Whether you want to see the best of Japan in a shorter time, or take your time in each city, you will find a tour package that suits your preferences. | Smaller group sizes enable our guests to access more of Japanese culture and traditions. Our Deluxe-Plus Tours are carefully balanced for you to discover the unique Japanese culture, history, arts, food and spectacular scenery Japan has. If you love Japan and want to appreciate the best of everything Japan can offer, these are the tours for you. | Dive into the cultural aspects of Japan at a more leisurely pace. Enjoy more than just sightseeing. All of our Signature Small Group Tours feature a wide range of cultural experiences through interaction with the people and places that represent all that is authentic about the destination. Get an alternative, more in-depth understanding of Japanese culture and art. | Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best cultural locations with off-the-beaten-path destinations via Japanese public transportation. Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes. |
Group Size | 20 to 45 people | 10 to 35 people | 6 to 24 people | 4 to 16 people | 4 to 13 people |
Fully-escorted | Comprehensively escorted by AJT's professional English speaking tour guide | Your guides are local experts and residents of the city you are visiting, they do not always escort the group when traveling between cities | |||
Pace | Fast pace to see as much as possible while in Japan | Perfect pace to see as much as possible while in Japan | More leisurely pace to soak in and fully appreciate the destinations, plus free time to explore on your own | ||
Airport Transfers | Airport transfers are NOT included unless otherwise specified | Airport transfers are included* (If no options are taken: hotels are not requested to be changed and passengers use the correct airports) | Airport transfers are included if arriving on the first day of the tour and returning on the last day of the tour | Private airport transfers are included if arriving on the first day of the tour and returning on the last day of the tour | Airport transfers are NOT included unless otherwise specified |
Transfer between cities | Transfer between cities via private coach and Shinkansen (bullet train), depending on the itinerary | Transfer between cities via private coach and first class Shinkansen (bullet train), depending on the itinerary | Transfer between cities via Shinkansen (bullet train) or express train. Private minivans are also used occasionally where public transport is not available or practical | ||
Sightseeing | Sightseeing by private coach with an escorted guide | Sightseeing by private coach and public transportation with an escorted guide | Sightseeing via public transportation (local train, subway & local bus) with local guides | ||
Admission fees and activities | All entry fees to sites and activities listed in the itinerary are included | ||||
Luggage Transfers | Luggage transfers by private coach from hotel to hotel, plus separate luggage transfers are included on select tours | Separate luggage transfers are included | |||
Meals | Breakfast every morning, plus meals as indicated (vegetarian or special meals can be arranged) | ||||
Accommodation | Carefully-selected budget hotels and ryokans | Carefully-selected superior/deluxe hotels and ryokans | Carefully-selected deluxe/boutique hotels and ryokans | Carefully-selected deluxe/luxury hotels and ryokans | Accommodations range from local Japanese inns (minshuku) to budget hotels, to superior/deluxe hotels depending on the tour and destination |
Ages | 4 years old and above | 6 years old and above | |||
Health & Activity | In order to enjoy our tour, you should be able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing activities can only be accomplished on foot. Wheelchairs can be arranged upon request. However, we regret that we’re unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. | These tours are tailored to the energetic traveler; guests should feel comfortable walking from 4 to 10 miles a day depending on the tour and destination. |