How to explore Japan beyond its big cities

It’s easy to be enchanted by Japan’s most notable cities, Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, but stepping off the beaten path opens doors to enchanting corners of the country. It’s in these places that you really get to understand this country. We have been leading trips to Japan for 25 years, and for the past decade, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/meet-the-designers/orsolya-kako">Experience Designer Orsolya Kako</a> has been building strong and lasting relationships with locals in the country—regional experts who help us connect travellers to exclusive culinary experiences, intimate cultural traditions and generous folks keen to open their doors to our travellers. This is a place where you can cycle coastal paths, explore samurai traditions, meet craft masters and soak in some quiet solitude in a private onsen—sometimes all in one day. Having just returned from a month of research in Japan, Orsolya shares her favourite under-the-radar regions to explore. &nbsp;&nbsp;Ishikawa&nbsp; B&amp;R has deep-rooted connections in this part of the country, an under-the-radar area that’s rich in artisanal traditions, natural beauty and new luxury hotels. Along with diverse cycling routes, the city of Kanazawa boasts one of the country’s most beautiful gardens, Kenrokuen, an idyllic spot to experience a traditional tea ceremony. And deeper into the mountains, in Yamanaka, you'll find serene onsen experiences not to be missed. You can explore all of this on our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/small-group/japan-toyama-biking">Japan Toyama Biking</a> Small Group trip, which traverses Ishikawa and neighbouring Toyama.&nbsp;Fukui&nbsp; Known for excellence in blade forging, pottery and textiles—expertise honed over hundreds of years—this is where you can dive deep into Japanese cultural heritage. The birthplace of samurai swords, immerse yourself in this unique world with visits to blacksmith studios and even the opportunity to forge your own tool. The technique is now used on kitchen knives, an incredible opportunity for home chefs to personalize their go-to kitchen utensil. You’ll also find Maruoka, one of the country’s oldest surviving original castles, and Eiheiji Temple, a storied centre for Zen Buddhism. And the opportunity to connect with nature here is plentiful, with mountains, river valleys and lush forests that offer both challenging climbs for cyclists and hikers and contemplative moments. With the diversity of experiences here, a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/japan-bespoke">Bespoke adventure</a> is the perfect option for exploring.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Aso, Kyushu&nbsp; The UNESCO Geopark Aso, in central Kyushu, is one of the most visually dynamic parts of the country. Shaped by active caldera volcanoes, the terrain is otherworldly, a mix of jagged rock and expansive grassland. For hikers, these are treks you’ll never forget. And routes are equally jaw-dropping for cyclists and those on horseback, too. With all this thermal energy, the region’s onsen game is top notch. Its culinary prowess is, too. Richly marbled Aso beef is meant to be savoured, and dairy, from artisanal cheese to rich ice cream, must be tried. If you love cooking, this is fertile ground for a farm-to-table culinary class. Discover the best of this region on our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/small-group/southern-japan-biking">Southern Japan Biking</a> Small Group Tour and consider extending your stay with a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/japan-bespoke">Bespoke itinerary</a> that allows you to explore longer.&nbsp;Kagoshima, Kyushu&nbsp; Here you’ll find one of the country’s most geographically diverse regions. Think volcanoes, subtropical forests and island chains. How you spend your time exploring the area can be just as diverse. For those seeking an active escape, you’ll find stunning hiking and cycling trails that lead you along rugged coastal cliffs, through rainforests and around crater lakes, all of which can be included on a tailored <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/japan-bespoke">Bespoke trip</a>. Or, for something more low-key, see the coast up close in a kayak then relax with a soak at an onsen and a sand bath, a wellness experience unique to the region thanks to naturally warmed volcanic sand. The culinary rewards are just as exciting. Along with being the home of rich Kurobuta pork, used in generous shabu shabu meals, and a wagyu that competes with Kobe for excellence, Kagoshima is the country's capital for the distilled spirit shochu. Find your favourite variety with visits to craft breweries for tastings and food pairings.&nbsp;Seto Inland Sea&nbsp; The place to go for a beachside escape, the Seto Inland Sea features an archipelago of hundreds of islands that are prime territory for a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/japan-bespoke">Bespoke adventure</a>. After time spent in the country’s busy cities, its beaches and relaxed pace are a welcome respite for travellers. The most famous island, Naoshima, is known for its museums and galleries, but there’s much more to explore. The Shimanami Kaido, for instance, is a gorgeous 70-kilometre cycling route that crosses six islands and nine bridges spanning the sea and offers tropical views while riding past art installations. Or, if you really want to slow down, there’s no better place in the country to find a private villa—or better still, private island—and while the time away on your own beach with kayaks or stand-up paddleboards at the ready. You’ll also find the country’s oldest olive groves here and century-old soy sauce breweries offering plenty of culinary surprises to explore.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wakayama&nbsp; A region full of rugged natural beauty and rich in spiritual history, Wakayama offers travellers incredible opportunities to be immersed in Japan’s culture, pilgrimage trails, and a touch of luxury, too. Start your adventure with the UNESCO World Heritage site Kumano Kodo, a network of routes that lead to the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano. These trails, one of only two UNESCO-designated pilgrimage routes in the world, have been in use for thousands of years and are steeped in deep cultural traditions. After hiking through ancient cedar forests, dramatic mountain terrain and past moss-covered hills—the same trails walked by monks and emperors alike centuries ago—you can spend a rewarding and reflective night at a temple. This is a part of the country waiting to be explored and perfect for a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/japan-bespoke">Bespoke experience</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/asia/japan">Join one of our Small Group trips in this unique country or get in touch with Orsolya to create a custom Japan Bespoke journey today</a>.&nbsp;

Explore Japan off the beaten path with B&R’s luxury active adventures. Discover Ishikawa’s artisans, Fukui’s samurai heritage, Kyushu’s volcanic beauty and Wakayama’s sacred trails—curated by our Japan Experience Designer. 

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

Japan | Butterfield & Robinson | Luxury Travel

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.

Japan Walking | Butterfield & Robinson

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.

Japan Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

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

Southern Japan Biking | Butterfield & Robinson 

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.

Japan

How to explore Japan beyond its big cities

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