Cultural Adventures to Japan
A slice of local life – with a side of sightseeing
Rather than days spent touring the classic sights, inevitably following the crowds, InsideJapan want you to buy lunch from vending machines, drink sake, and eat yakitori grilled skewers in traditional Japanese izakaya bars. There is of course the traditional sightseeing you’ll want to do – because you can’t miss the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto or the neon-lit streets of Tokyo - but experiencing what’s normal to locals, yet wholly new and culturally insightful to visitors, while connecting with passionate guides (affectionately known as ‘Insiders’) remains at the heart of InsideJapan’s offering.
Slices of everyday local life
Whether it’s eating buttery ramen in the winter of northern Hokkaido, toasting (kampai!) with locals in the backstreet bars of Shinjuku, or spotting Mount Fuji from your Shinkansen bullet train window, what’s exciting about everyday Japanese life is different for everyone. Your Travel Counsellor and InsideJapan will help you discover those unbookable moments you’ll remember long after you’ve arrived home.
Riding the Shinkansen bullet train
Travelling in comfort at speeds of up to 320 km/h, you'll see a side of Japan you can’t see when wandering through the streets.
Exploring a convenience store
Dip into a local Konbini brimming with Japanese delights and experience the magic of Japan’s grab and go shopping customs.
Okonomiyaki fried before your eyes
An Osakan specialty. Pull up a seat at a local food market and enjoy the rich pancake delight cooked right in front of you.
“Our trip was amazing. It was very well organised by our Travel Counsellor and pretty much ticked all the boxes. The private guest house at Takayama was definitely the highlight of the trip for both of us.”
Hands-on cultural experiences
To truly uncover the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, you need more than a standard tour guide – you need an ‘Insider’. InsideJapan’s Insiders are handpicked, cultural experts, passionate about sharing the hidden stories and authentic experiences that make Japan so unforgettable. Some are born-and-bred locals, while others are global citizens who’ve made Japan their home. Whether it’s exploring Kyoto’s tranquil yet little-known Zen gardens or stepping behind the scenes of a sumo training session, these are experiences you simply won’t find elsewhere.
A private audience with a Maiko
In an experience exclusive to InsideJapan, enjoy being hosted with a Japanese Geisha in training.
Soak in an onsen hot spring bath
Take a dip in mineral-rich waters, with the fresh air on your face, while you take in views of rivers and mountains.
Izakaya bar tour
Join a group night out in Golden Gai, Tokyo, led by an English-speaking guide. Eat and drink your way through the menus and meet chatty locals.
Your must-see sights
Whether you’ve always wanted cross Tokyo’s iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing or dreamt of exploring the streets of Kyoto’s geisha districts, an InsideJapan trip is never complete without ticking off your must-see sights. Speak to your Travel Counsellor and tell them of your non-negotiables and they can perfectly plan your journey to fit them in. Similarly, if you aren't sure what should be on your sightseeing agenda, they can recommend the highlights in each destination, including the ideal times to visit.
Nara Park
Make friends with the sacred, yet cheeky, deer in Nara Park. Considered messengers of the gods, the 1,000 deer here are a symbol of the city.
Himeji Castle
One of the few Japanese castles that remains as it has been since its construction. Built in 1581 by the samurai hero, Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
InsideJapan’s favourite corner of Kyoto, a 200-metre path through swathes of storeys-high bamboo, which is particularly beautiful in December when the groves are illuminated by traditional lanterns.
Interested in finding out more? Get in touch today.