This 7-day journey is designed for travelers who want to look beyond Japan’s usual tourist trail and immerse themselves in the world of ukiyo-e and the historic Nakasendo road. Blending fine art, traditional craftsmanship, and the quiet beauty of central Japan’s castle towns and mountain villages, the itinerary moves at a comfortable pace from Tokyo into the Kiso Valley, Nagano, and Karuizawa.

Along the way, you’ll stand before the soaring black keep of Matsumoto Castle, wander the timeless post town of Narai-juku, and trace the lineage of Japanese woodblock prints at the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum and the Hokusai-kan. The journey is enriched by hands-on moments and rare experiences — painting your own Kiso lacquerware, gliding through the highlands aboard the scenic “Rokumon” sightseeing train, and ending with a live Kabuki performance at Tokyo’s famed Kabukiza Theatre.

With a dedicated English-speaking guide, seamless rail travel, and thoughtfully paced days, this tour offers a smooth and enriching way to experience a more cultural, off-the-beaten-path side of Japan — ideal for art lovers and curious travelers who want expert support while exploring places few visitors ever reach.

Why This Tour Stands Out

• Explore the world of ukiyo-e and the historic Nakasendo, far beyond Japan’s usual tourist trail.
• Journey through Matsumoto, the Kiso Valley, Nagano, and Karuizawa in one seamless trip.
• Enjoy rare cultural experiences, from lacquerware painting to a live Kabuki performance.
• A perfect choice for art lovers and curious travelers seeking an authentic, immersive side of Japan.

Tour Pricing

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

*Exchange rate used: 1 USD = 160 JPY

Group size is flexible—please contact us for details.

Please note that prices may also vary during high-demand periods, including:
・March–April (spring season)
・Year-end and New Year holidays
・Obon holiday period (mid-August)
・Autumn foliage season
・Long holiday weekends

Final pricing will be confirmed based on travel dates and availability.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Tokyo

Relax at your hotel and settle in after arrival.

Hotel: 4 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 2 | Matsumoto

• Limited express train from Tokyo to Matsumoto
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Visit Matsumoto Castle
• Visit Matsumoto City Museum of Art
• Stroll along the old townscape (e.g. Nakamachi Street and Nawate Street)

Hotel: 4 Star Hotel in Matsumoto

Day 3 | Matsumoto

• Visit Narai-juku (a beautifully preserved post town on the old Nakasendo road)
• Kiso lacquerware painting experience

Hotel: 4 Star Hotel in Matsumoto

Day 4 | Nagano

• Visit the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum
• Limited express train from Matsumoto to Nagano
• Visit Zenko-ji Temple

Hotel: 4 Star Hotel in Nagano

Day 5 | Karuizawa

• Visit the Hokusai-kan Museum in Obuse
• Scenic ride aboard the “Rokumon” sightseeing train to Karuizawa (lunch served on board)

Hotel: 4 Star Hotel in Karuizawa

Day 6 | Tokyo

• Explore Karuizawa (e.g. Kumoba Pond and Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street)
• Bullet train from Karuizawa to Tokyo
• Kabuki performance at Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza

Hotel: 4 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 7 | Tokyo

Check out from your hotel and transfer to Narita or Haneda International Airport.

If you’d like to extend your stay, add experiences, or arrange hotels only without a guide, we’re happy to customize your plans.

Inclusions

• Private tour
• Dedicated English-speaking guide
• 7 days itinerary
• 6 nights accommodation in 4 star accommodation
• Breakfast everyday
• Lunch on guided tour days
• Public transportation
• All entry fees to sites, activities as specified
• Kiso lacquerware painting experience
• Scenic ride aboard the “Rokumon” sightseeing train
• Kabuki performance at Kabukiza Theatre
• 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)
• Travel Insurance
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Important Notes

If your inquiry is made within three 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.

Please note that arrival and departure airport transfers are arranged on your own, as no guide accompanies you on the first and final days.

Tell Us More, and We’ll Find the Best Plan for You

Interested in this 7-day package? Contact us anytime to begin planning your trip.

If you would like to extend your stay or add more experiences, we can arrange additional days, activities, or accommodations upon request.

We also offer fully customized itineraries tailored to your interests and travel style. To learn more, check out Tailor-Made Tour by ENJYU JAPAN.