This 14-day Autumn Landscapes Retreat takes you on a private journey through Japan’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations—from the bustling streets of Osaka to the tranquil temples of Kyoto and the mountain serenity of Kanazawa and Shirakawa-gō.

With a private tour guide by your side, you’ll explore iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Shirakawa-gō Village.

Each day blends discovery and relaxation—whether dressing in a kimono to wander old streets, savoring local specialties at lively markets, or enjoying quiet evenings at your hotel. The journey concludes in Tokyo, where tradition and modernity coexist in neighborhoods like Asakusa, Shibuya, and Harajuku, with a final view of Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi.

Designed to follow the rhythm of autumn, this tour offers a seamless balance of culture, nature, and comfort—an invitation to experience Japan’s beauty at its most vivid.

Why This Autumn Tour Stands Out

• Travel comfortably with your private tour guide throughout the journey, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
• Experience a ride on Japan’s famous bullet train, known for its speed, comfort, and precision.
• Created for experienced travelers who value thoughtful planning, authentic local insight, and a relaxed yet purposeful pace.
• Experience both Japan’s vibrant urban energy and the quiet charm of its countryside, each revealing a different side of the country’s character.
• Take part in hands-on cultural moments such as a sumo show, a traditional matcha tea ritual, or dressing in kimono for a stroll through Kyoto.

Tour Period

This tour is available from October to late November in 2025.

Tour Pricing

Tour prices do not include airfare, guide tips, meals, or transportation to/from airports.

*Exchange rate used: 1 USD = 145 JPY

Group size is flexible—please contact us for details here.

Itinerary

Day 1 |  Osaka

Welcome to Osaka | Your Journey Starts Here

Upon arrival in Japan, check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Osaka

Day 2 |  Osaka

Lively Soul | Stories of People, Craft, and Tradition

Meet your private guide at the hotel and begin your day with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks surrounded by expansive park grounds. Continue to Shinsekai, a retro district filled with nostalgic charm, and enjoy views from the Tsutenkaku Tower, a beloved local symbol. Savor lunch at one of the casual eateries nearby before exploring the lively streets of Namba and Shinsaibashi, Osaka’s best-known shopping and entertainment areas.

• Osaka Castle
• Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower
• Namba and Shinsaibashi Area

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Osaka

Day 3 |  Wakayama

Spiritual Paths | Autumn Colors and Temple Life in Mt. Kōya

Experience the spiritual heart of Japan in Koyasan, especially beautiful in autumn. Walk through towering cedar trees to Okuno-in, where colorful leaves frame Japan’s most sacred cemetery. Visit Kongobuji Temple to see elegant tatami rooms and a peaceful rock garden surrounded by seasonal colors. End the day at Jison-in, a quiet temple at the start of the Koyasan pilgrimage trail, made even more scenic by autumn foliage.

• Koyasan Okuno-in
• Kongobuji Temple
• Jisonin Temple

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Osaka

Day 4 | Kyoto

The Eternal Capital | Temple Trails

Start the day at Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its endless rows of vermilion torii gates that create one of Kyoto’s most iconic scenes. In the afternoon, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where the temple’s wooden stage overlooks a hillside ablaze with autumn colors. Take a leisurely walk through the preserved streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, lined with traditional shops and teahouses, before returning to your hotel for a quiet evening.

• Fushimi Inari Shrine
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kyoto

Day 5 | Nara

Nara Day Trip | Meet Wild Deer and Explore Ancient Temples

Take a day trip to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital and home to some of its most treasured cultural sites. Stroll through Nara Park, where friendly wild deer freely roam among ancient temples and gardens. Visit the majestic Tōdai-ji Temple, housing a towering Great Buddha statue, as well as Kōfuku-ji and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, both celebrated for their historic beauty and serene atmosphere.

• Nara Park
• Tōdai-ji
• Kōfuku-ji
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kyoto

Day 6 | Kyoto

Seasons of Grace | Kimono Moments and Autumn Splendor

Begin the day with a kimono dressing experience, complete with traditional hairstyling, and enjoy the feeling of stepping back in time. Head to the scenic Arashiyama District, where you can stroll through the famous Bamboo Grove and along the Katsura River, framed by brilliant autumn leaves. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Kinkaku-ji, one of Kyoto’s most striking sights, shimmering against the backdrop of colorful maple trees.

• Kimono Dressing Experience
• Arashiyama
• Kinkakuji

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kyoto

Day 7 | Kanazawa

Kanazawa Grace | Echoes of the Edo Era

Travel by bullet train to Kanazawa, a city known for its refined culture and preserved Edo-period charm. Visit the Higashi Chaya District, where traditional teahouses, lattice-fronted buildings, and gold leaf shops evoke the elegance of old Japan. Take time to wander the narrow streets and soak in the calm, timeless atmosphere.

• Bullet Train
• Higashi Chaya District

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kanazawa

Day 8 | Shirakawa-gō Village

Hidden Heritage | The Mountain Charm of Shirakawa-gō

Take a scenic drive to Shirakawa-gō, a UNESCO World Heritage village nestled in the mountains. Explore the beautifully preserved gassho-style farmhouses, known for their steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow. Step inside the historic Wada House to glimpse traditional rural life, then head up to the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observatory for a panoramic view of the village surrounded by autumn colors.

• Shirakawa-gō Village

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kanazawa

Day 9 | Kanazawa

Cultural Calm | Tea and Tradition in Autumn Light

Visit Omicho Market, Kanazawa’s bustling local market, and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Continue to Kanazawa Castle Park, then stroll through Kenrokuen Garden where you’ll take part in a peaceful matcha tea experience surrounded by autumn colors. End the day at the Nomura Samurai House, a beautifully preserved samurai residence with a serene garden.

• Omicho Market
• Kanazawa Castle Park
• Kenrokuen Garden
• Matcha Experience
• Nomura Samurai House

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kanazawa

Day 10 | Tokyo

Urban Interlude | A Gentle Return to the City

Travel by bullet train to Tokyo, then enjoy lunch at your leisure around Tokyo Station, where a variety of restaurants and cafés await. Continue to your hotel, check in, and take the rest of the day to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

• Bullet Train

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 11 | Tokyo

Tokyo Essence | Where Tradition Meets Modern Elegance

Begin the day with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis surrounded by towering trees in the heart of the city. Continue to Shibuya and Harajuku, where modern trends meet youthful energy, and enjoy lunch at your leisure in Shibuya. In the afternoon, head to the Nezu Museum, known for its elegant architecture, curated art collection, and beautiful garden that reflects the calm side of Tokyo.

• Meiji Shrine
• Shibuya/Harajuku
• Nezu Museum

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 12 | Lake Kawaguchi (Mt. Fuji View)

Art and Tranquility | Autumn Reflections by Mt. Fuji

Take an express train to Lake Kawaguchi, one of the best places to view Mt. Fuji. Visit Oishi Park, where seasonal flowers and the lake create stunning photo opportunities, and enjoy lunch at your leisure nearby. In the afternoon, stop by the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to admire exquisite kimono art inspired by nature and the changing seasons.

• Lake Kawaguchi
• Oishi Park
• Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 13 | Tokyo

Cultural Rhythms | Art, Tradition, and the Spirit of Edo

Visit the Sumida Hokusai Museum to appreciate the works of Japan’s iconic ukiyo-e artist. Enjoy a sumo show with a hearty chanko nabe lunch, then head to Asakusa to explore Senso-ji Temple and the lively Nakamise shopping street. End the day at the Taiko Drum Museum, where you can see and try traditional Japanese drums.

• The Sumida Hokusai Museum
• Asakusa Area
• Senso-ji Temple
• Nakamise Street
• Taiko Drum Museum

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 14 | Tokyo

Departure Day | Until We Meet Again

Check out from the hotel and transfer to Haneda or Narita Airport. As your journey comes to a close, take with you vivid memories of Japan’s autumn beauty—scenes that will stay with you long after the leaves have fallen.

Inclusions

• Fully private tour
• Dedicated English-speaking guide
• Detailed daily itinerary
• 13 nights accommodation in 3-star accommodation
• Breakfast everyday
• Transportation based on group size (see pricing)
• All entry fees to sites, activities as specified
• Cultural experiences as specified
• Ride the shinkansen bullet train

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Arrival airport transfer / Departure airport transfer
• Visas
• Tipping
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Luggage transfer for bullet train (if required)
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Important Notes

The autumn foliage season varies by region, typically occurring between late September and early December. The exact timing and peak viewing periods may change each year, so please contact us in advance for the most up-to-date information.

If your inquiry is made within two months of your desired arrival date, the above prices may not apply. In such cases, we will provide a custom quotation based on availability and travel conditions.

Ready to Start Planning?

If you’re interested in this Autumn Landscapes Retreat Tour, please contact us to begin your booking.

Already have a specific destination in mind, or looking for something a little different? Our travel planner will work closely with you to create a private holiday tailored to your interests.

To learn more, check out Tailor-Made Tour by ENJYU JAPAN.