Japan Overland

Touch down in Tokyo and transfer to your hotel in vibrant Shinjuku, a district that never truly sleeps. Ease into the neon signs glowing against the skyline, train lines humming overhead, and the electric rhythm of the city. Gather at the hotel for a warm welcome and orientation session by our team. Meet your fellow travellers, understand the road journey ahead, and ease into the adventure over a thoughtfully curated welcome dinner.

Today, we will go on a Tokyo city coach tour and experience the striking contrasts this city has to offer: from digital art, futuristic skyline, to forest shrines.

We begin at Meiji Jingu Shrine, walking through towering torii gates into a quiet forest dedicated to the revered spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. Here you'll find sake barrels gifted from across Japan, try your luck with an Omikuji fortune, and witness visitors praying for love, health, and prosperity.

Next up, we have the immersive teamLab Planets that invite you to walk barefoot through a digital art universe. Flowers fall from ceilings, light responds to movement, and just like that, the child in you comes rushing out wide-eyed. Later, we rise above it all at Tokyo Skytree on a Tokyo Skytree observation deck tour, an observation tower which is also one of the tallest in the world.

At 634 metres, the views stretch endlessly with the city coming alive in every direction. The rest of the evening is at leisure. You can explore Shibuya's iconic scramble crossing, dive into Akihabara’s electric streets, or unwind in Shinjuku’s pub alleys. You can even opt for a real-life Mario Kart Tokyo street drive experience. Your Land Cruiser Prado is delivered today and tomorrow, the driving begins.

Today, the engines start. Leaving Tokyo's skyline behind, we drive toward Hakone, world-renowned as one of Japan's premier hot spring (onsen) destinations, making our way towards Mt. Fuji on our Japan Alpine route road trip. The highway slowly gives way to winding mountain roads, and if the weather allows, Mount Fuji begins playing hide and seek in the distance. Continue your exploration with a thrilling ride on the Hakone ropeway, from Tōgendai to Owakudani. Below, sulphur vents rise like smoke signals from the earth, making the landscape feel dramatic, almost lunar. You can taste Hakone’s most unusual delicacy- Kuro Tamago, black eggs boiled in volcanic hot springs. After lunch, check into your accommodation and spend the evening at your leisure. You can opt for a scenic boat cruise across Lake Ashi, drifting beneath Fuji's silhouette.

Today, we set off toward the dramatic Japanese Alps, leaving Hakone behind as mountain roads begin to twist and rise. The drive itself is a visual treat with the alpine landscapes slowly taking over the horizon. We will journey to Mount Fuji's 5th Station on your Japan cultural road trip Mount Fuji- the highest point accessible by vehicle, where sweeping views and postcard-perfect landscapes make for a truly soul-stirring experience (If weather permits).

Continuing north, the scenery shifts into the heart of the Japanese Alps, where crisp air and open valleys welcome us into Hakuba. Known for its world-class ski resorts, Hakuba offers panoramic mountain views and vibrant autumn foliage that transforms the landscape into shades of gold and crimson. Tonight, we settle into this iconic alpine retreat.

Today, we head west through the peaceful Nagano countryside toward the enchanting village of Shirakawa-go. Along the way, rice fields and quiet valleys set the scene for a journey back in time. Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site over 600 years old, is famed for its gasshō-zukuri farmhouses - wooden homes with steep thatched roofs shaped like hands in prayer, designed to shed heavy snow.

Pause at the village observatory for that classic postcard view that feels almost too perfect to be real. After soaking in the village’s timeless charm, we continue to Kanazawa on the Sea of Japan coast, a city known for its refined culture and vibrant streets ready to explore in the evening.

Today, we dive deep into Kanazawa's samurai legacy. Begin at Kanazawa Castle, where the architecture, stone walls, and serene landscapes reflect the power and elegance of Japan's feudal era. Spend about an hour exploring this historic stronghold, imagining the disciplined life of samurai who once walked these grounds.

Next, wander the narrow lanes of the Higashi Chaya District, a beautifully preserved area of wooden matcha tea houses. Enjoy a hands-on gold leaf plating experience, a craft Kanazawa is famous for, producing nearly 99% of Japan’s edible gold leaf. Try gilding a small plate or teacup yourself, or simply marvel at gold-adorned treats like ice cream. In the evening, return to your hotel and simply retire for the night.

Today's drive leads us away from Kanazawa and into Kyoto, the quiet mountain heart of central Japan. The route winds through forested hills, small country towns, and long stretches of scenic highways, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. En route, we stop at Daihonzan Eiheiji, one of Japan's most significant Zen monasteries, set within forested hills.

The tranquil atmosphere offers a rare glimpse into the discipline and serenity of Zen Buddhist life. By evening, we arrive in Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital for over 1,100 years, and a city deeply rooted in tradition.

Today, we embark on a deep cultural journey into ancient Kyoto by coach, beginning at the Samurai Museum Kyoto. Here, you can don authentic samurai armour and wield a blunt katana, experiencing firsthand the discipline and precision that defined Japan's warrior class.

Next, experience the tradition closely by dressing in a kimono and participating in a Japanese tea ceremony. Watch the tea master whisk matcha to perfection and serve it with delicate wagashi sweets. In the afternoon, you may visit the serene Zen temple or stroll through Gion's historic streets, where the past whispers through wooden machiya houses and lantern-lit lanes.

Today is yours to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Wander through Kyoto's UNESCO-listed treasures such as Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari Taisha, browse the vibrant stalls of Nishiki Market, or simply pause and absorb the city's timeless elegance. You can also opt for an optional day trip to Hiroshima via the Shinkansen (Bullet train) and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Extend the journey to Miyajima Island, where the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine appears to rise gracefully from the sea, creating one of Japan's most celebrated coastal vistas. Alternatively, you can visit Nara Park, where friendly bowing deer roam freely near landmarks such as Todaiji Temple and its monumental Great Buddha. In the evening, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Today, we embark on a dynamic coastal drive from Kyoto to Osaka, with a refined stop in Kobe for lunch. Savour the world-renowned Kobe delicacy while enjoying scenic views of the picturesque harbour. Continuing onward, we arrive in Osaka, Japan's bustling merchant city, where modern energy meets history, with glimpses of the iconic Osaka Castle along the way. The day concludes with an immersive sumo experience, witnessing wrestlers train up close and participating in hands-on demonstrations of their practice rituals. This combination of culinary experience and authentic cultural sports makes for a memorable finale to your journey.

Today is a leisure day in Osaka, offering the freedom to explore the city your way. Known for its vibrant energy, street food culture, and lively neighbourhoods, Osaka offers plenty of ways to spend the day. You may choose to visit Universal Studios Japan, a world-famous theme park known for its thrilling rides and immersive attractions, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Alternatively, you can enjoy a scenic cruise across Osaka Bay, or dive into the colourful aisles of Don Quijote for a uniquely Japanese shopping experience. Whether you choose entertainment, waterfront relaxation, or simply wandering through Osaka's lively streets, the day is yours to explore at your own pace.

Today, embark on a long but scenic drive from Osaka, leaving the city's urban energy behind as you transition toward the serene landscapes near Mount Fuji. Arrive in Gotemba, where the day unfolds at a gentler pace, set against the ever-present silhouette of Mount Fuji. As your journey nears its end, this becomes a moment to pause and take it all in, one last opportunity to admire Japan's most iconic peak in all its quiet grandeur.

Arrive in Gotemba, where you can unwind with some time at the Gotemba Premium Outlets, one of Japan's most renowned outlet destinations, featuring luxury and international brands, before finally heading towards Tokyo. Upon arrival, check in to your Tokyo hotel and prepare for a curated farewell dinner, a celebratory evening to relive highlights, share stories, and toast to an unforgettable Japan experience.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to Narita/Haneda Airport for your flight home. After an unforgettable 2-week journey through Japan’s mountains, cities, and culture, we leave with memories that linger long after departure. During the journey, you can also choose from the following add-ons.