12-Nights Legacy Of Japan With Hokkaido - First-Class, New, Small Group Discovery from $9,481

Globus

OFFER ID 1708480

Small groups lead to immersive discoveries on this Small Group Discovery tour through Japan’s vibrant cities and cultural heartlands. From the electric energy of Tokyo to the open skies of Hokkaido, begin your journey exploring ancient shrines, bustling temple districts, and the hidden worlds beneath the city on Tokyo’s remarkable metro system. Fly north to Sapporo, where wide boulevards and local flavors offer a refreshing contrast. Enjoy a meaningful encounter with the traditions of the Ainu, Japan’s Indigenous people, at Upopoy Cultural Park. Continue south to the peaceful mountain town of Tendo. Time-honored traditions come alive through sake brewing, hands-on soba-making, and a graceful maiko performance. Ride the sleek Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kanazawa, where tranquil gardens and artisan crafts reveal Japan’s refined elegance. Venture into the carving village of Inami to witness masters of woodwork and try the craft yourself. End your journey in Kyoto, where golden temples and centuries-old statues embody the spiritual beauty of Japan.

12 nights from $9,481 per person

Itinerary

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Itinerary Details

Legacy Of Japan With Hokkaido

Day 1: ARRIVE IN TOKYO, JAPAN Your Small Group Discovery tour begins! Welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s capital city. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.

Day 2: TOKYO Monumental Metropolis Hop on Tokyo’s subway system to explore this fascinating city on a guided sightseeing tour, featuring the Meiji Shrine, Asakusa Kannon Temple, and Nakamise Shopping Arcade. Tonight, join your travel companions at a welcome dinner hosted by your Tour Director. (B,L,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Tokyo’s metro stations are so extensive that many function as underground mini-cities with shops, restaurants, and passageways stretching for blocks beneath the streets. Exploring Tokyo by metro is a quintessential Japanese experience, and your Tour Director will guide you through the system and to the highlights of this dynamic city. Sightseeing begins with Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto shrine set within a man-made forest. Continue to Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise Shopping Arcade, the oldest of their kind in Tokyo.

Day 3: TOKYO–SAPPOROFrom City Lights to Northern Charm Today, transfer to the airport and fly to Sapporo, the vibrant capital of Hokkaido and gateway to Japan’s northern landscapes. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE Known for its wide boulevards, fresh seafood, and lively food culture, Sapporo offers a refreshing contrast to Tokyo. Use your free time to stroll through the city, perhaps visit Odori Park or sample the region’s famous miso ramen and local beer. Your Tour Director has all the tips and guidance to help you enjoy your free time.

Day 4: SAPPORONature Meets Frontier Discover the charm of Hokkaido’s capital with guided sightseeing through Sapporo’s most iconic landmarks. Stroll through Odori Park, visit the Sapporo TV Tower, admire the historic Clock Tower and Former Hokkaido Government Office, and explore the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about Japan’s oldest beer brand. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Views & Brews
Sapporo offers a unique blend of open spaces, Western-influenced architecture, and rich local culture. Begin with a walk through Odori Park, the city’s green centerpiece stretching through downtown. Then, take in panoramic views from the Sapporo TV Tower, explore the elegant red-brick Former Hokkaido Government Office, and visit the historic Clock Tower, one of the city’s oldest surviving buildings. Conclude the day at the Sapporo Beer Museum, which celebrates a brewing tradition that dates back to the 19th century.

Day 5: SAPPORO. EXCURSION TO UPOPOYEnduring Heritage Venture outside of Sapporo to Upopoy, home to the National Ainu Museum and Park. Enjoy a captivating traditional Ainu performance featuring music, dance, and storytelling that bring centuries-old customs to life. Following the performance, you’ll have time at leisure to explore the museum and park at your own pace.

Return to Sapporo this afternoon where the remainder of the day is free. (B,L)

LOCAL FAVORITE
Living Tradition
The National Ainu Museum and Park is a cultural center dedicated to preserving and celebrating the heritage of the Ainu, the Indigenous people of northern Japan. Historically based in Hokkaido and surrounding regions, the Ainu have a distinct culture, language, and spiritual tradition deeply connected to nature and community.

Experience authentic Ainu culture through live performance showcasing traditional songs and dances rarely seen outside of Hokkaido. Afterwards, stroll through the park’s exhibits to learn about Ainu daily life, craftsmanship, and beliefs.

Day 6: SAPPORO–YAMAGATAMountain Tranquility Fly south to vibrant Yamagata City, nestled in the mountains and hot springs region of Yamagata Prefecture. (B)

Please note:
Depending on flight availability, you will travel to either Yamagata or Sendai airport.

Day 7: YAMAGATA. EXCURSION TO TENDOTaste & Culture Tendo is known for its craftsmanship and culinary traditions. Today’s sightseeing begins at a local sake brewery, where you’ll learn about the art of sake production and regional brewing techniques. Then, immerse yourself in a soba-making class for lunch. This afternoon, witness a graceful maiko dance performance, offering a glimpse into classical Japanese entertainment traditions. (B,L,D)

LOCAL FAVORITE
Grain to Table
Soba has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries, dating back to the Edo period and symbolizing longevity and resilience. Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on soba-making experience, where you’ll learn time-honored techniques and craft Japan’s beloved buckwheat noodles from scratch. From kneading and rolling the dough to carefully cutting each strand, discover the skill and precision behind this cherished culinary tradition—then savor the simple, satisfying reward of your own freshly made soba.

Day 8: YAMAGATA–TENDO–KANAZAWA Travel by Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tendo to the historic city of Kanazawa, situated between the mountains and the Sea of Japan. Known for its beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts, traditional gardens, and rich artistic heritage, Kanazawa offers a refined glimpse of historic Japan. (B)

Please note:
Travel today requires one train connection in Omiya. You will depart Tendo in the morning and arrive in Kanazawa in the early afternoon.

Day 9: KANAZAWATimeless Gold This morning, explore Kenroku-en Garden and take part in a gold leaf class, where you’ll learn about this ancient craft and make your own bento box. After lunch, the rest of the day is at your leisure. (B,L)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
THE POWER OF TRANQUILITY Kenroku-en is one of Japan’s three great gardens and dates back to the 1670s. Translated into English, the name means “Garden of Six Qualities,” referring to the six essential attributes that make up a perfect garden: spaciousness, tranquility, artifice, antiquity, water, and magnificent views.

One of the garden’s most stunning attractions is Kasumigaike Pond, with its island called Horai, which symbolizes long life and eternal prosperity.

Day 10: KANAZAWA. EXCURSION TO INAMIArtistry in Every Carve Journey into the countryside to visit the charming village of Inami, renowned throughout Japan for its centuries-old woodcarving tradition. Stroll along the historic main street, where workshops line the road and the rhythmic sound of chisels echoes through the air as artisans practice their craft.

Then, enjoy a hands-on woodcarving class, guided by skilled artisans who introduce you to the techniques and tools of this time-honored art form.
Return to Kanazawa this afternoon. (B,L,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE
Discover the artistry of Inami, one of Japan’s most celebrated woodcarving villages. Watch skilled artisans at work and try your hand at this intricate craft during a guided class, creating your own small piece while learning the traditions passed down through generations.

Day 11: KANAZAWA–KYOTO Golden Gift This morning, drive south to Kyoto. On arrival, visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji, the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. End the day at Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Flanking the main statue are 1,000 more life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf, with 40 arms believed to have the power to save 25 worlds! (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ICONIC MASTERPIECE
Visit Kyoto’s famed Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku ji), one of Japan’s most celebrated landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covered in shimmering gold leaf, this striking Zen temple reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond and landscaped gardens, creating one of the country’s most photographed scenes. Stroll the tranquil grounds and admire the harmony of architecture and nature that embodies the elegance and refinement of traditional Japanese design.

Day 12: KYOTOKyoto to Go Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore the city. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner at your hotel. (B,D)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE Join your Tour Director for a walking tour through Gion, visit more of Kyoto’s historic temples, or consider an optional trip to the expansive Nara Park, famous for its free-roaming deer that wander among its shrines and temples. These and other options throughout your tour may be available for purchase with MyGlobus. Your Tour Director has all the tips and guidance to help you make the most of your free time.

Day 13: KYOTO Say it Ain’t Sayonara Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Featured Destinations

Tendo

Kanazawa

Sapporo (Muroran)

Kyoto

Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan, presents a different view at every turn. It's one of the world's main economic centers and its most populous agglomeration. The business of Tokyo is business, but you can still find harmony and small-scale gardens on back streets. Around the corner from neon and concrete, you may find the bonsai-lined courtyard of a traditional inn.

Tokyo was nearly destroyed by bombs and fires during World War II, and by earthquakes at other times, but it has always rebuilt itself. As a result, there is little left of Old Japan in the city, but there's plenty of New Japan to take its place.

The streets are a confusing maze, so a map is essential. The transit system is excellent, however, and there are kobans (police boxes) throughout the metropolis, as well as a populace generally willing to answer questions.

Visitors to Tokyo represent both business and leisure travelers. And despite its past reputation, Tokyo is no longer fearsomely expensive. It's relatively easy to visit Tokyo on a budget.

Excursions

Wheeling Your Way Through Tokyo - 6 Hours

Forget the bus, get out of the car, and by no means take the subway – experience Tokyo by bicycle a seemingly unusual way to explore one of the world’s largest megalopolises. But once on your bike and pedaling through the city’s many and varied neighborhoods you will experience Tokyo in a truly unique way.

You will transfer to Chuo-ku, Tokyo where you choose your bicycle and try it out before setting off. Once ready and under the supervision of your cycling guide set off for the Tour de Tokyo pedaling your way through some of the distinctive districts that make Tokyo so memorable:–
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Tsukishima (traditional market area famed for its monjayaki savoury pancake) and Tsukiji Outer Market the largest seafood market in the world.
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Ginza (Tokyo’s chic shopping district – the city’s “Fifth Avenue”)
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Shinbashi Station (Japan’s oldest railway station)
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Azabu Juban Village (eclectic, eccentric and exciting – where trendy meets traditional)
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Roppongi, Aoyama and Harajuku & Omotesando (iconic architecture and fashion forward for today’s Tokyo)
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Yoyogi Park (site of the 1964 Olympic Village – weather permitting enjoy a picnic lunch)
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The New National Stadium (site of the 2020 Opening Ceremonies)
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Meiji Jingu Shrine (Tokyo’s revered Shinto Shrine set within a verdant forest park)
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Yoyogi National Stadium (Tange Kenzo’s stunning design for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games)
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Jingu Gaien Mall (the beautiful Gingko lined Avenue)
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Akasaka Palace (the magnificent State Guest House)
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Parliament House (the site of the National Diet)
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Imperial Palace Grounds (The Iconic Nijubashi Bridge and the moat)
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Tokyo Station + KITTE (Marunouchi Minami Exit side)
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15:00: Arrive at Chuo-ku, Tokyo – the end of this Tokyo tour

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

03/16/2027 - 03/28/2027

from $9,481 per person

04/06/2027 - 04/18/2027

from $9,681 per person

05/18/2027 - 05/30/2027

from $9,681 per person

06/08/2027 - 06/20/2027

from $9,831 per person

09/14/2027 - 09/26/2027

from $9,831 per person

10/05/2027 - 10/17/2027

from $9,831 per person

10/19/2027 - 10/31/2027

from $9,831 per person

11/09/2027 - 11/21/2027

from $9,831 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $9,481 per person

Length

12 Nights

Air City

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Vacation Rating

Deluxe

Remarks

Prices listed are land-only, per person, based on double occupancy and are subject to change and availability. Itinerary and map subject to change. The "Starting at" or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include international airfare. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Globus) in which case intra-vacation air and taxes are included in the price shown.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1708480

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