This multi-generational exploration of Japan is an adventure to remember

Our series Bespoke Behind the Scenes lets you in on some of the incredible trips that B&amp;R Experience Designers create for travellers. Whether it’s a multi-generational family reunion or an exploration of a dream destination, our team works one-on-one with travellers to design original journeys that meet every need and desire. Here, Experience Designer <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/who-we-are/meet-the-designers/orsolya-kako" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">Orsolya Kako</a> shares the story of a cultural immersion in <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/japan-bespoke" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(70, 120, 134);">Japan</a>.&nbsp;There are so many reasons to travel, sometimes it’s to explore the culinary expertise of a region or to see ancient sights up close and personal. In other instances, it’s to achieve a personal goal. In this case, a traveller was heading to Japan to run the Tokyo Marathon, and decided to have his family and his wife’s parents join him on an incredible adventure. Not only would he have a cheering squad as he crossed the finish line, but they’d make incredible memories exploring the unique country.&nbsp;“As they had already spent a few days in Tokyo before the marathon, they really wanted to focus in and around Kyoto as well as an experience in the countryside to really get a sense of Old Japan,” says Orsolya Kako, B&amp;R’s Experience Designer for Japan. Working with the family, she created an itinerary that spoke to all three generations and gave them hands-on experiences to really understand the culture and history of places they were visiting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There was a session with an artist to try their hands at the delicate technique of making washi paper, as well as a soba noodle tutorial, after which they enjoyed the delicious results of their class.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Kyoto, the family learned the history and traditions of samurai and then, after a demonstration, got to channel their inner warrior and practice some skills. They also shared a quiet moment over a tea ceremony in a historic home, a time-honoured spiritual experience that speaks deeply to Japanese tradition. “These special moments helped them to understand the depth of history that Kyoto offers as the ancient capital of Japan,” Orsolya explains. They also visited a geisha house and spent some one-on-one time with a maiko, an apprentice geisha. “This special and intimate experience was a dream come true and a once-in-a-lifetime experience that not many get to experience.”&nbsp;In between these immersive experiences, was time spent together absorbing the landscape and natural beauty of the country. They explored the sublime Kenrokuen Gardens, considered one of the country’s most beautiful and the definitive example of an Edo-period garden. A visit to Ozouchi village offered insight into how these remote places are trying to revitalize themselves. And a walk through the countryside of Asuka, a daytrip from Kyoto, offered access to the area’s historical legacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The goal was to keep all three generations having fun, learning and engaging each day with local culture,” says Orsolya. “It was the perfect trip for this family since they played an active part in designing it with me.”&nbsp;

There's so much to discover in Japan beyond Tokyo. The fun for all ages, from kids to grandparents, includes cooking classes, hands-on workshops with artists and an immersion in history for exploring historic towns to one-on-one time with a geisha apprentice

Japan

Excavations of stone-age settlements date human arrival on the Japanese archipelago to be 100,000 years ago. The wonderful riddle of contemporary Japan is how whole-heartedly it has embraced all things modern—all the while retaining the customs of times past.&nbsp;This is truly a land of contrasts: from the bright lights and chaos of Tokyo to the elegance and history of UNESCO-protected Kyoto. It has the most serene and picturesque pockets-places with marvellous, meticulously tended gardens, centuries-old temples and remarkable mountain vistas.

From cherry blossoms to cutting-edge cities

Journey from Tokyo to Kyoto and explore Japan's ancient trails on a luxury tour. Ryokan stays, cherry blossoms and sacred temples with expert guides since 1970.

Luxury Biking & Private Tours in Japan | Butterfield & Robinson

In Japan, we’re treated like family. The result of over 12 years spent nurturing close relationships with the locals, learning how to provide you with a deeply authentic experience. We’ve sought out some of Ishikawa's most picturesque rides on offer—epic climbs and all—made effortless in the saddle of your faithful e-bike. You’ll hardly break a sweat as you take in sublime views of the Noto, but don’t worry: the owner of our ryokan will still have a glass of sake waiting for you when you get back.

A journey over a decade in the making

In Japan, we’re treated like family; the result of over twelve years spent fostering and nurturing close relationships with the locals, learning how to provide you with a deeply authentic experience. We’ve sought out some of the most picturesque rides on offer—epic climbs and all—made effortless in the saddle of your faithful e-bike. You’ll hardly break a sweat as you take in sublime views of the Noto, but don’t worry: the owner of our ryokan will still have a glass of sake waiting for you when you get back.

Central Japan E-Biking | Butterfield & Robinson

In Japan, we’re treated like family. The result of over 12 years spent nurturing close relationships with the locals and learning how to provide you with an authentic experience. You'll trail-blaze Ishikawa's most serene and picturesque pockets on two wheels, landing upon the Noto Peninsula to embark on tranquil yet epic rides through fishing villages along country roads. Elsewhere, you'll slow down the pace as you soak in mountain hot springs, visit centuries-old temples, partake in the time-honoured tea ceremony, and marvel at meticulously tended gardens.

Ishikawa on two wheels

In Japan, we’re treated like family, the result of over twelve years spent fostering and nurturing close relationships with the locals and learning how to provide you with an authentic experience. As cyclists, we trailblazed the most serene and picturesque pockets on two wheels, landing upon the Noto Peninsula to offer&nbsp;quiet yet epic rides through fishing villages along country roads. Elsewhere, we slow down the pace as we soak in mountain hot springs, visit centuries-old temples, partake in the time-honoured tea ceremony, and marvel at meticulously tended gardens.

The wonderful riddle of modern Japan is how whole-heartedly it has embraced all things modern while retaining customs of times past.

Take on Japan's Kumano region by foot to discover sacred sites and pilgrimage routes in the Kii Mountain Range

An exploration of the art forms, aesthetics and crafts of Japan, from the ancient to the modern

Find your home away from home at one of these private accommodations in Japan that settle you into the local way of life

In true Japanese style, each intricate detail of this trip was crafted with intention and weaves together for a&nbsp;meaningful&nbsp;experience.&nbsp;On Japan’s third-largest island, Kyushu,&nbsp;pedal&nbsp;into&nbsp;lush&nbsp;subtropical&nbsp;landscapes with&nbsp;green tea fields and&nbsp;smoking volcanoes on the horizon.&nbsp;Connect with the fascinating&nbsp;local&nbsp;culture&nbsp;from&nbsp;samurai practice,&nbsp;to&nbsp;mythological stories&nbsp;and ‘power&nbsp;spots’.&nbsp;Talented chefs, brewers,&nbsp;and artisans will bring you closer to&nbsp;deep&nbsp;cultural roots while each stay will show you&nbsp;a new way to relax and rejuvenate.

Experience the exciting frenzy of modern Kyoto and its world class restaurants, then slip into the startling contrast of traditional wooden streets and pagodas hugged by blossoming cherry trees. The tranquillity of rural Japan will soothe you and the natural beauty and charming small town feel of World Heritage Site, Nara will persuade you to pause. Hike Japan’s legendary pilgrimage trails – places of pure serenity, and walk in the footsteps of the Samurai. Find enlightenment at ethereal temples, soak in therapeutic mountain hot springs, and discover the rewards of the countryside, where picturesque landscapes, connecting with nature, traditional living and slowing down are the laws of the land.

Great Walks

Land of Striking Contrasts

Cultural Immersion

Stroll into rural Japan, where life slows deliciously, deer pose politely, and tea-drinking reaches spiritual heights. Wander serene rice terraces in Asuka, swap stories (and tea secrets) with local farmers, and let bamboo forests and moss gardens cure your big-city blues. Ride the whimsically named "Romantic Train," sip sake, slurp noodles, repeat as needed. Japan’s countryside: tranquillity, perfected.

A Land of Contrasts

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

Preview the itinerary

Experience Designer

Start by experiencing the fine frenzy of modern Kyoto, then slip into the peace and tranquility of rural Japan and ancient Nara. Stroll some of Japan's most breathtaking walking trails and step back in time. Visit centuries-old temples, soak in mountain hot springs, and marvel at the soothing stillness of the awe-inspiring countryside.

Spend 6 nights hiking Japan's tea and temple country in a small group. Nara's deer park trails, Kyoto's hidden gardens and routes most Japan visitors never

Japan Walking Tour: Nara's Deer Parks, Kyoto's Hidden Gardens & Tea Trails

Discover the most serene and picturesque pockets of Japan with your favourite people.

In true Japanese style, each intricate detail of this trip was crafted with intention and weaved together for a meaningful experience. On Japan’s third-largest island, Kyushu, pedal into lush subtropical landscapes with green tea fields and smoking volcanoes on the horizon. Connect with the fascinating local culture from samurai practice to mythological stories and "power spots." Talented chefs, brewers and artisans will bring you closer to deep cultural roots, while each stay will show you a new way to relax and rejuvenate.

Experience Kyushu's volcanic landscapes

The wonderful riddle of contemporary Japan is how it has embraced modernity—all the while retaining customs of times past. This is truly a land of contrasts: from the bright lights and chaos of Tokyo to the elegance and history of UNESCO-protected Kyoto. Here, we’re treated like family, the result of over a decade spent fostering and nurturing close relationships with the locals in a country known for its tightly guarded traditions and customs. Discover Japan on a private adventure—tailored-made your way. Below are some highlights to stir your imagination and guide your trip planning.&nbsp;

Local Connections

Off the Beaten Path

Japan is where centuries-old temples and neon skylines coexist—gracefully, improbably and beautifully. Sip matcha in Kyoto gardens, dine with friends in hidden mountain ryokans and navigate Tokyo’s buzz like a local. With deep-rooted traditions and next-level hospitality, our Japanese journeys are often stitched together by contrasts—and made unforgettable by connections.

Experience Iconic Japan

Bespoke travel lets you take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to create your tailor-made trip.

Bike Kyoto's temples, walk Fuji's trails and explore Tokyo on a custom Japan itinerary. Decades of insider access to a Japan most travellers never reach.

Japan Private Tours: Kyoto Temples, Fuji Trails & Decades of Insider Access

Float on the Seto Inland Sea aboard the Guntû—a small ship that fuses the luxury of a yacht with a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.

Venture to Kyushu—Japan’s southernmost main island, where dramatic mountain vistas, volcanic landscapes, historic cities and serene hot springs await your exploration. Begin your adventure in Kagoshima, pedalling through lush green tea fields to the Kagoshima Shrine, where a Shinto ceremony blesses your travels. Cycle along stunning coastlines and smooth trails, pausing to meet our local friend in a traditional kominkan. Follow a riverside road to the lush Aya Ecopark, crossing the “Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge” to reach the heart of Aya.&nbsp;Meet local artisans to discover the secrets of age-old crafts and immerse yourself in the mythical tales of Japan’s creation through the captivating Yokagura dance.&nbsp;Along the way, you'll savour fresh, local delicacies and unwind from a day of cycling in tranquil hotels that reflect the island’s enchanting beauty.&nbsp;

Incredible Rides

Vibrant Culture

Unforgettable Experiences

Southern Japan is a slow-burning stunner—think tea fields, volcano views, Shinto blessings, and coastlines that go on forever. Ride riverside trails to lush ecoparks, cross suspension bridges that test your nerve, and meet artisans who keep ancient crafts alive. With kominkan chats, mythical dances, and hot springs at day’s end, Kyushu charms from every angle.

Cycle Kyushu’s lush lands

Featured stays

Spend 7 nights cycling Japan's Kyushu island in a small group. Volcanic highland roads, hot spring villages and sake brewery visits off every standard

Southern Japan Bike Tour: Kyushu Volcanoes, Hot Springs & Sake Breweries

Exclusive Stays

Extraordinary Tables

Deep Roots

Discover a side of Japan most travellers never find — and one you won't want to leave. Along the Noto Peninsula and into the Hakusan highlands, contemporary design hotels, private onsen villas and Michelin-quality cuisine take centre stage. Pedal quiet coastal roads and mountain routes linking fishing villages, ancient craft traditions and storied hot spring towns, pausing for long winery lunches above Toyama Bay, unforgettable omakase dinners and deeply seasonal kaiseki that showcases the flavours of sea, mountain and shore. With exclusive stays for our group, this limited edition journey through central Japan offers something increasingly rare: the chance to feel completely at home in a place that feels nothing like home.

Cycle Japan's Noto Peninsula and Hakusan Highlands on this limited edition B&R journey. Discover coastal roads, sacred mountain temples and ancient onsen towns, with exclusive hotel takeovers, Michelin-quality omakase dinners and kaiseki suppers in historic ryokans. A side of Japan most travellers never find.

Luxury Japan Cycling Tour – Noto Peninsula & Hakusan Highlands

Modern Japan stands as a testament to its vibrant past; a nation whose dynamic culture is built on the fusion of ancient customs and innovation. From the serenity of centuries-old temples to the bustling energy of neon-lit cities, this land shines through its striking contrasts. On this adventure, soak in mountain hot springs and marvel at beautifully tended gardens while indulging in the island nation's world-famous cuisine.&nbsp;Pedal through Japan’s most picturesque pockets, where country roads, fishing villages and towering mountain ranges are the backdrop of each unforgettable ride.

Authentic Food

To bike Toyama is to see Japan’s past and future in perfect collision. Here, neon cities meet zen temples, and mountain hot springs cure modern-day stress. Cycle serene countryside roads, pause in sleepy fishing villages, and savour mind-blowing cuisine (ramen obsession incoming). Expect meticulously manicured gardens, jaw-dropping peaks, and scenery so perfect, you'll wonder if it was created by AI.

biking through anicent lands

Spend 5 nights cycling Japan's Noto Peninsula to Kanazawa in a small group. Samurai districts, gold-leaf studios and a coastline most Japan itineraries never

This multi-generational exploration of Japan is an adventure to remember

By Butterfield & Robinson

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