Away
to Japan

A Comprehensive Destination Guide
for an experiential journey across Japan.

Japan is a land of contrasts — ancient yet ultra-modern, serene yet energetic, minimalist yet rich in detail. Whether you’re walking through centuries-old shrines, tasting the freshest sashimi at a tiny izakaya, or soaking in an open-air onsen overlooking misty mountains, a trip to Japan is a deep immersion into a culture both refined and endlessly fascinating. Each region tells its own story, each meal is a ritual, and every season offers a distinct palette of beauty and emotion. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, this guide curates the most authentic, cultural, culinary, and boutique-luxury experiences in Japan. Whether you’re planning thoughtful tours to Japan or designing a bespoke summer in Japan, let this be your gateway to transformative travel.

Authentic, Unique,
and Local Experiences
for a memorable
tour to Japan.

Away LogoExperiences in Japan

Tea Ceremony with a Kyoto Tea Master

Step into a tatami-matted tea room in a Kyoto machiya (townhouse) and participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony led by a master. Learn the art of preparing matcha, understand the symbolism of each movement, and experience the profound mindfulness that defines this ritual.

Staying in a Traditional Gassho-Zukuri Farmhouse

In the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go, spend the night in a centuries-old farmhouse with steep thatched roofs built to withstand heavy snow. Eat seasonal meals cooked over an irori (sunken hearth) and wake up to misty mountain views — a glimpse into rural life, preserved with pride.

Washi Paper Making in Gifu

Join local artisans in the peaceful mountains of Gifu to learn the delicate art of making washi — traditional Japanese paper. Engage in every step, from pulping to pressing, and create your own sheet to take home, a tangible memory of one of the most tactile experiences in Japan.

Cycling Through the Noto Peninsula

Escape the tourist trail by cycling through sleepy fishing villages, terraced rice fields, and seaside temples along the Noto Peninsula. Stop at local ryokans, taste salt made by hand, and enjoy the slow, authentic rhythm of Japan’s countryside.

Meditation with Monks on Mount Koya

Stay overnight in a shukubo (temple lodging) on sacred Mount Koya and experience the serenity of a monk-led morning meditation. Join the fire rituals, dine on shojin ryori (Buddhist vegan cuisine), and walk through Okunoin cemetery under towering cedars.

Cultural Immersion
in Japan

Walking the Nakasendo Trail

The Nakasendo was one of Japan’s historic post roads connecting Kyoto and Tokyo. Hike between preserved Edo-period towns like Tsumago and Magome, where cobbled paths, traditional inns, and wooden signage transport you back in time. A living museum with breathtaking scenery.

Exploring the Samurai Legacy in Kanazawa

In Kanazawa’s Nagamachi district, walk along stone-paved alleys lined with mud walls and visit restored samurai homes. Discover the heritage of Bushido (the way of the warrior) and view centuries-old swords and armor collections. A trip to Japan is incomplete without understanding the samurai ethos.

Visiting the Peace Memorial in Hiroshima

A powerful and poignant cultural site, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a space for reflection, remembrance, and learning. Guided tours offer emotional insight into the events of 1945 and the ongoing messages of peace that resonate globally.

Noh and Kabuki Theater in Tokyo and Osaka

Attend a traditional Noh or Kabuki performance — with vivid costumes, stylized drama, and haunting music. Local interpreters or audio guides enhance understanding, making this an enriching experience even for first-time viewers.

Temple Hopping in Nikko

Just a couple of hours from Tokyo, Nikko is a treasure trove of elaborate Shinto and Buddhist temples, including the UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine. Surrounded by forests and waterfalls, this spiritual escape blends cultural grandeur with natural beauty.

Local Dining and Regional Cuisine
of Japan

Kaiseki Dining in Kyoto

Kaiseki is the pinnacle of Japanese fine dining — a multi-course journey through seasonal ingredients, delicate presentation, and meticulous technique. In Kyoto, dine at a centuries-old ryotei where each dish is a work of art served in lacquerware and ceramics.

Street Food Tour in Osaka

Known as “Japan’s Kitchen,” Osaka is the best place to try takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (fried skewers). Take a guided night walk through Dotonbori or Shinsekai for a flavor-packed, casual dive into Kansai street food.

Sushi at Toyosu Market in Tokyo

Wake early and secure a seat at a sushi bar in Toyosu — the new version of the iconic Tsukiji Market. Watch chefs craft perfect nigiri with fish landed that morning. These unforgettable experiences in Japan highlight the craftsmanship behind each bite.

Yakiniku and Wagyu in Kobe

Kobe’s reputation for melt-in-your-mouth beef is well-earned. At a high-end yakiniku restaurant, grill premium Wagyu cuts tableside and pair them with local sake or plum wine. A luxurious culinary ritual not to be missed on a summer in Japan.

Seafood Feasts in Hokkaido

The northern island of Hokkaido is renowned for its seafood. At local markets or seaside restaurants, enjoy bowls of ikura (salmon roe), uni (sea urchin), scallops, and crab. Complement with a glass of crisp Sapporo beer or regional sake.

Love in Japan

A Romantic Start in Kyoto

Begin in Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan - a city adorned with historic temples, charming geisha districts, and the serene beauty of Arashiyama's bamboo groves, the perfect start for your unforgettable adventure.

Serene Kanazawa

Kanazawa, known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, is a tranquil escape ideal for a stroll along the serene Kenroku-en Garden and explore samurai neighbourhoods, setting the tone for the rest of your honeymoon.

Discovering the Hidden Charms of Takayama

Uncover the hidden charms of Takayama, a picturesque town nestled in the Japanese Alps. Explore its historic streets, ancient wooden houses, and serene riverside walks, offering an intimate escape.

Sake Tasting in the Countryside

Japan's sake culture is a delightful surprise. Tour local breweries, taste exquisite sake, and stay in charming ryokans for your unforgettable honeymoon in Japan.

The Culinary Odyssey

Japan's cuisine is an adventure in itself. Embark on a culinary odyssey through the flavours of sushi, tempura, ramen, and the art of kaiseki - a perfect complement to your love story.

Unique Award-Winning
Boutique Hotels

Hoshinoya Kyoto

Accessible only by boat along the Katsura River, this riverside retreat blends modern luxury with centuries-old architecture. Sliding screens, tatami floors, and lantern-lit pathways create a tranquil hideaway minutes from Kyoto’s heritage sites.

Aman Tokyo

Set atop the Otemachi Tower, Aman Tokyo offers sweeping skyline views, minimalist elegance, and a spa that feels like a Zen sanctuary. With traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern comforts, it’s a calm oasis in the heart of the capital.

Zaborin Ryokan, Niseko

In a birch forest near Niseko’s hot springs and ski slopes, Zaborin offers modern ryokan experiences with in-room onsen, private gardens, and exquisite kaiseki meals. This is Japan’s luxury countryside at its most refined.

Gora Kadan, Hakone

A former imperial retreat turned Relais & Châteaux property, Gora Kadan blends historic grandeur with sleek design. Surrounded by Hakone’s mountains and hot springs, it’s perfect for couples seeking serenity and sophistication.

Benesse House, Naoshima

Art meets hospitality at Benesse House, a museum-hotel on Japan’s art island, Naoshima. Guests stay among world-class contemporary works, with the Seto Inland Sea as a backdrop. Ideal for creative souls seeking cultural immersion.

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