Discover Northern Japan – Sacred Landscapes, Living Traditions, and Untouched Beauty

Venture beyond Japan’s most familiar routes to explore a region where dramatic landscapes, ancient temples, and quiet cultural traditions remain beautifully preserved.

From the vibrant energy of Tokyo to the forested shrines of Nikko and the elegant culture of Sendai, this journey leads you through some of the country’s most captivating northern landscapes. Walk among centuries-old cedar trees, cruise through the pine-covered islands of Matsushima Bay, and climb the sacred stone steps of Yamadera Temple overlooking vast mountain valleys.

Along the way, experience Japan at a slower and more intimate rhythm: staying in traditional ryokan, soaking in soothing onsen, meeting local artisans, and discovering towns where craftsmanship, seasonal cuisine, and regional culture remain deeply rooted in daily life.

Tour Highlights

Efficient public transportation, including scenic Shinkansen journeys

Guided tours with expert local guides in Tokyo, Nikko, Sendai, Matsushima, and Yamagata

13 nights in 3/4 star accommodations (breakfast included)

Exclusive cultural experiences (based on availability)

Airport meet-and-greet assistance and private arrival transfer

Optional customizations for families or special occasions

Itinerary

Your adventure in Japan begins. Upon arrival a Yupima representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to your centrally located hotel in Tokyo. Take the rest of the day to unwind and recover from the flight. Your hotel is located in a lively area, with plenty of shops and local restaurants just a short walk away.

Included: Airport meet & greet, Transfer by train, Hotel check-in assistance

Day 1

Welcome to Japan – Arrival in Tokyo

Today offers a beautiful introduction to Tokyo’s contrasts: ancient temples, artisan traditions, and charming old neighborhoods. Your guide will meet you at your hotel to start today's exploration:

• Visit Senso-ji Temple in historic Asakusa
• Walk along the lively Nakamise shopping street, lined with traditional snacks and crafts
• Lunch break in a local restaurant
• Hands-on artisan workshop such as kintsugi, Edo kiriko glass cutting, or chopsticks making
• Explore the nostalgic Yanaka old town district, one of Tokyo’s best-preserved neighborhoods
• Stroll through Ueno Park, home to museums, temples, and peaceful greenery

Overnight in Tokyo.

Included: Breakfast, Guided Tour

Day 2

Tokyo

Traditions and Contrast

A day dedicated to Tokyo’s contemporary spirit, where fashion, architecture, and urban culture intertwine. Hihglights:
• Visit the serene forest sanctuary of Meiji Shrine
• Walk through the colorful streets of Harajuku
• Explore Omotesando, Tokyo’s architectural avenue featuring world-renowned designers
• Discover Shibuya, including the famous crossing and lively urban culture

Overnight in Tokyo.

Included: Breakfast, Guided Tour

Day 3

Tokyo

Modern Layers

This day offers a deeper look into everyday Japan and traditional architecture rarely seen by first-time visitors.

• Half-day guided exploration by foot or bicycle to discover a local Tokyo's neighborhood, including the visit to Gotoku-ji Temple, famous as the birthplace of the iconic maneki-neko lucky cat
• Travel by local train to nearby Kawasaki
• Visit the Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, a fascinating collection of historic farmhouses and traditional architecture relocated from across Japan

In the evening (free time) head to Shinjuku to admire Tokyo’s illuminated skyline from a panoramic observation deck. Overnight in Tokyo.

Included: Breakfast, Guided Tour (on foot or bicycle)

Day 4

Tokyo Local Neighborhoods

Beyond the Guidebooks

A day immersed in Nikko’s sacred landscapes, where ornate shrines, forest temples, and centuries-old cedar avenues reveal the spiritual heart of Japan.

• Private guide (meeting at Asakusa Station)
• Limited express train to Nikko, gateway to one of Japan’s most important shrine complexes
• Visit the magnificent Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu
• Walk through towering century-old cedar forests surrounding the temples
• Visit Rinno-ji Temple, iconic for its 3 Golden Buddha Statues
• Stop at the iconic Shinkyo Bridge, one of Japan’s most beautiful sacred bridges

Overnight at traditional ryokan in Nikko with onsen baths.

Included: Breakfast & Dinner, Train tickets to Nikko, Guided Tour

Day 5

Nikkō

Sacred Forests & Shogun Legacy

Today you will have a private car at your disposal, to explore further Nikkō and its stunning natural landscapes and heritage.

• Scenic drive into Nikko National Park
• Visit Lake Chuzenji, set at the foot of Mount Nantai
• See the dramatic Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan’s most celebrated waterfalls
• [Depending on the period] Explore the charming Italian Embassy Villa Memorial Park, a peaceful lakeside retreat once used by foreign diplomats

Overnight at traditional ryokan in Nikko with onsen baths.

Included: Breakfast & Dinner, Private Car

Day 6

Nikkō

Nature & Mountain Landscapes

This morning, take a Shinkansen train heading north, where you will spend the day exploring Sendai’s refined heritage, where samurai history, elegant boulevards, and quiet cultural traditions reveal the spirit of northern Japan. Meet your guide at Sendai station to start your tour:

• Shinkansen journey to Sendai (approx. 2 hours)
• Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum, the ornate resting place of feudal lord Date Masamune
• Walk along elegant Jozenji-dori Avenue, known for its tree-lined boulevard
• Explore the historic Sendai Castle ruins, offering beautiful city views

Overnight in Sendai.

Optional cultural experiences:

• Tea ceremony experience
• Sake tasting
• Akagane copper craft workshop
• Kokeshi doll painting workshop
• Wagashi (traditional sweets) making class

Included: Breakfast, Train from Nikkō to Sendai, Guided Tour

Day 7

Sendai

Gateway to Tohoku Region

A day discovering the timeless beauty of Matsushima Bay, where pine-covered islands, serene temples, and coastal vistas create one of Japan’s most celebrated landscapes.

• With your local guide, take a train ride to Matsushima, considered one of Japan’s three most scenic views
• Scenic bay cruise among hundreds of pine-covered islands
• Visit the historic Zuigan-ji Zen Temple
• Stroll along coastal paths with stunning viewpoints
• Late afternoon, make your way by train back to Sendai

Overnight in Sendai.

Included: Breakfast, Train Sendai-Matsushima, Guided Tour

Day 8

Matsushima (Day Trip)

Nature & Mountain Landscapes

[Self-Guided] This morning take the train (1 hour) to Yamagata. Immerse yourself in mountain landscapes, where forested trails and ancient temples lead to the breathtaking heights of Yamadera. Recommendations:
• Visit Yamadera (Risshaku-ji Temple)
• Hike the atmospheric stone stairway through forested mountains
• Reach panoramic viewpoints overlooking the valley

Overnight in Yamagata.

Included: Breakfast, Train Sendai-Yamagata

Day 9

Yamagata

Mountain Temples

A slower day to enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere of the Tohoku Region.

• Relaxing morning at your ryokan
• Free time to explore Yamagata at your own pace

Optional experiences:

• Private calligraphy session
• Visit a local sake brewery or winery
• Guided countryside cycling
• Traditional weaving workshop creating a handcrafted coaster
• Behind-the-scenes katana smithing experience
• Samurai swordsmanship demonstration

Overnight in Yamagata.

Included: Breakfast

Day 10

Yamagata

Slow Japan (Culture Day)

[Self-Guided] Check out from your ryokan and make your way back to Tokyo at your pace by Shinkansen (approx 2h 45min).
Tokyo free afternoon for shopping, museums, or neighborhood exploration.

Optional experiences: tea ceremony, sushi or ramen cooking class, origami workshop and more (subjected to availability).

Overnight in Tokyo.

Included: Breakfast, Shinkansen Yamagata-Tokyo

Day 11

Return to Tokyo

Today embark on an adventure to discover Kamakura’s samurai heritage and Enoshima’s coastal charm, where historic temples, seaside shrines, and ocean views reveal a more relaxed side of Japan.

• Your guide will meet you at your hotel, so you can take the train (1 hour) together to Kamakura, Japan’s medieval samurai capital
• Visit the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Explore Hasedera Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and ocean views
• Walk through Komachi Street, a lively lane filled with local specialties
• Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine

Continue to nearby Enoshima Island for coastal views and seaside charm.
On clear days, you may enjoy spectacular sunset views of Mount Fuji across the bay.

Return to Tokyo in the evening. Overnight in Tokyo.

Included: Breakfast, Round trip train ticket for Kamakura, Guided Tour

Day 12

Kamakura & Enoshima

Samurai Heritage by the Sea

Today is to explore Tokyo at your own rhythm, discovering hidden neighborhoods, vibrant cafés, and cultural corners that reveal the city’s endless layers.final day to explore the city at your own rhythm.

Suggested areas:

• Daikanyama : stylish cafés and boutiques
• Shimokitazawa : vintage culture and indie shops
• Imperial Palace Surroundings
•Shibuya, Ginza or Omotesando : vintage and high-end shopping

Evening suggestions:

• River cruise through Tokyo’s illuminated skyline
• Refined dining experience
• Geisha dinner

Overnight in Tokyo.

Included: Breakfast

Day 13

Tokyo

Free Day Exploration

Check out and transfer to Haneda or Narita Airport for departure.

Thank you for exploring Japan with Yupima. We hope to welcome you again for another unforgettable journey!

Included: Breakfast, Train ticket to Haneda or Narita airport [additional fees for private car transfer]

Day 14

Departure Day

Do you want to further customize or extend your holiday? Speak to one of our Travel Experts at
info(at) yupimajapantravel (dot) com
and we’ll be in touch with you shortly.

”Our itinerary was beautifully organized, with a mix of must to sees and hidden gems. The guides were warm and knowledgeable, and we learned a lot about Japanese culture. Highly recommend!”

- Mike

”This tour gave us a perfect taste of Japan. The experiences felt authentic, and the pacing was ideal. We saw so much but never felt rushed. A great blend of comfort and culture.”

- Kateryn

”We didn’t want a big group tour, and Yupima Classic package was perfect for us. Everything was easy and well-managed, with special touches along the way. Great value for such a rich experience.”

- Jorge&Iliana

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