Overview

This 14-day Autumn Foliage Package Tour in Japan is a private journey designed to blend seasonal beauty with cultural depth.

With a dedicated private tour guide by your side throughout, you’ll explore Japan’s most enchanting autumn destinations—from the brilliant colors surrounding Nikko’s sacred shrines and waterfalls, to the misty lakes and steaming valleys of Hakone, the hidden temple paths of Wakayama ablaze with leaves, and the timeless elegance of Kyoto’s golden pavilions and bamboo groves.

Along the way, immerse yourself in hands-on traditions like Edo Kiriko glass cutting, calligraphy, crafting a Japanese knife—and savor an evening of refined elegance with a geisha performance in Kyoto. Each moment invites you to slow down, breathe in the crisp autumn air, and witness Japan’s natural and spiritual elegance at its most brilliant.

It’s more than a trip—it’s one of the best fall foliage tours in Japan, created to leave a lasting impression.

Why This Tour Stands Out

• Discover Japan’s autumn beauty at some of its most iconic spots—wander through the autumn foliage of Mt. Koya in Wakayama, the temples of Nikko, and the historic streets of Kyoto.
• Experience a ride on Japan’s famous bullet train, known for its speed, comfort, and precision.
• Try your hand at traditional crafts like Edo Kiriko glass cutting and forging your own Japanese-style kitchen knife.
• Immerse yourself in Japanese culture through calligraphy, Zen meditation, and matcha tea making.
• End your journey with a two-night stay in Kyoto, including a memorable evening in Gion watching an elegant geisha performance.

Tour Period

This tour is available from late September 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.

Itinerary

Day 1 |  Tokyo

Welcome to Tokyo | Your Journey Starts Here

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

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 2 |  Tokyo

Timeless Tokyo | A Day of Culture and Craft

Meet your private guide and explore the historic Asakusa district, including Senso-ji Temple and the lively Nakamise shopping street. Enjoy panoramic views from the Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest towers in the world. Try your hand at Edo Kiriko, a traditional Japanese glass-cutting craft known for its intricate patterns. End the day with a peaceful walk through Rikugien Garden, one of Tokyo’s best spots for autumn foliage.

• Asakusa District
• Tokyo Skytree
• Edo Kiriko Cutting Experience
• Rikugien Gardens

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 3 |  Tokyo

Living Traditions | Heritage and Everyday Life in Tokyo

Start your day at the Imperial Palace, a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. At Toyosu Market, sample fresh seafood and get a taste of Japan’s vibrant food culture. Continue to Meiji Shrine, a tranquil oasis surrounded by towering trees. End with a visit to the Nezu Museum, where a quiet traditional Japanese garden and vivid autumn leaves await.

• Imperial Palace
• Wholesale Market of Toyosu
• Meiji Shrine
• Nezu Museum

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 4 | Nikko

Nikko Day Trip | Fall Foliage and Sacred Treasures

Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by vibrant autumn leaves. Take in the power of Kegon Falls and enjoy the peaceful views of Lake Chuzenji. It’s a day that blends cultural heritage with the colors of autumn.

• Nikko Toshogu Shrine
• Kegon Falls
• Lake Chuzenji

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Tokyo

Day 5 | Hakone

Scenic Traditions | Nature and Modern Art

Cruise across Lake Ashi and enjoy the peaceful autumn scenery. Ride the ropeway up to Owakudani to see its volcanic landscape and feel the fresh mountain air. End your day at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where art and nature come together in perfect harmony.

• Hakone Shrine
• Boat Cruise on Lake Ashi
• Hakone Ropeway
• Owakudani
• Hakone Open-Air Museum

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kanagawa

Day 6 | Fuji

Timeless Fuji | Iconic Beauty and Cultural Depth

From Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station, enjoy panoramic views of Japan’s most iconic peak. Make your way to Oshino Hakkai, a charming village known for its crystal-clear springs and traditional atmosphere. Then, visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, where you can discover the artistry of Japanese kimono and enjoy the Japanese garden, especially stunning in autumn when the leaves turn vivid shades of red and orange.

• Mt.Fuji’s 5th Station (Weather Permitting)
• Oshino Hakkai
• Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kanagawa

Day 7 | Osaka

Lively Soul | Stories of People, Craft, and Tradition

Travel to Osaka by bullet train and start your visit at Osaka Castle, an iconic landmark surrounded by lush parks and steeped in stories of Japan’s feudal past. Later, connect with local artisans as you craft your own Japanese-style kitchen knife—a hands-on experience that gives you a deeper appreciation for Japanese precision, culture, and everyday craftsmanship.

• Bullet Train to Osaka
• Osaka Castle
• Experience Making own Japanese-Style Knives

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Osaka

Day 8 | 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 9 | Himeji

Castle and Calligraphy | A Cultural Day

Ride the cable car up Mount Shosha to visit Engyoji Temple, a quiet Zen site in the forested hills. Explore its historic halls and try Japanese calligraphy, a calming tradition with deep roots. Back in the city, explore Himeji Castle, also known as White Heron Castle, admired for its graceful design and rich history. End your day at Kokoen Garden, where autumn leaves and traditional landscaping create a peaceful retreat beside the castle.

• Shoshazan Engyoji Temple
• Experience Japanese Calligraphy
• Himeji Castle
• Kokoen Garden

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Himeji

Day 10 | Hiroshima

History and Hope | Walking Through Hiroshima’s Past and Present

Travel to Hiroshima by bullet train and begin your visit with a peaceful stroll through Shukkeien Garden, a beautifully landscaped retreat in the heart of the city. Then, spend time at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a powerful and moving place that tells the story of the city’s past and its message of peace for the future.

• Bullet Train to Hiroshima
• Shukkeien Garden
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Hiroshima

Day 11 | Hiroshima

Torii and Tides | A Day of Beauty in Miyajima

Take a short ferry ride to Miyajima, home to the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. As you explore the island, you may encounter friendly deer roaming freely and discover traditional shopping streets lined with local snacks and souvenirs. With its blend of nature, culture, and spirituality, Miyajima offers a peaceful escape from the everyday.

• Miyajima
• Itsukushima Shrine

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Hiroshima

Day 12 | Kyoto

The Eternal Capital | From Temple Trails to Moments of Zen

Discover Kyoto in its autumn glory, starting with the striking torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Take in panoramic views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple and stroll through the gardens of Kodaiji Temple, where autumn foliage adds vibrant color to the serene landscape. Continue your journey with a Zen meditation session and a hands-on matcha tea ceremony—two immersive experiences that offer insight into Japan’s spiritual and cultural traditions.

• Bullet Train to Kyoto
• Fushimi Inari Shrine
• Kiyomizu Temple
• Kodaiji Temple
• Zen Meditation
• Green Tea Ceremony

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kyoto

Day 13 | Kyoto

Paths of Beauty | Bamboo Paths and Geisha Grace

Start your day at Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto’s famed Golden Pavilion, shimmering beside a peaceful reflecting pond. Then head to Arashiyama, where you can stroll through the towering bamboo forest and cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. End your Japan journey in the timeless streets of Gion, where an authentic geisha performance unfolds over dinner—offering an unforgettable evening of elegance and culture.

• Kinkakuji Temple
• Arashiyama
• Gion District
• Geisha Performance

Hotel: 3 Star Hotel in Kyoto

Day 14 | Kyoto

Departure Day | Until We Meet Again

Check out from the hotel and transfer to Kansai International 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 late November. 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 foliage tour package, 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.