Hidden Gems Of Japan

Upon arrival at Osaka’s Kansai International Airport, our friendly tour representatives will be there to greet you. They will assist with your transfer to the Limousine Bus, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey to your accommodation. Once you arrive at your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to unwind and explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to relax after your flight, stroll through the vibrant streets of Osaka, or indulge in local delicacies, this time is designed for you to settle in and soak up the city’s atmosphere. In the evening, we’ll come together for a warm welcome dinner, where you’ll meet your fellow travellers and get a taste of Osaka’s renowned cuisine. This is the perfect opportunity to connect, ask questions about the upcoming adventure, and begin your journey with a delightful culinary experience.

🥘 Dinner
🛏️ New Osaka Hotel

The New Osaka Hotel, strategically located near Shin-Osaka Station, offers convenient access to the city's major attractions and transportation hubs. Known for its warm hospitality and attentive service, the hotel provides comfortable and well-appointed rooms, ensuring a pleasant stay for both business and leisure travellers.

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey from Osaka to Takamatsu, experiencing Japan’s world-class rail system. Our adventure begins with a ride on the Shinkansen to Okayama, where we then transfer to the Marine Liner, crossing the stunning Seto Inland Sea before arriving in Takamatsu.

In the afternoon, we visit the breathtaking Ritsurin Kōen Garden, one of Japan’s most exquisite landscaped gardens. Stroll through its serene pathways, admire the meticulously designed ponds and bridges, and take in the beauty of the seasonal flora. To enhance this tranquil experience, we’ll pause for a matcha tea break, immersing ourselves in the refined traditions of Japanese tea culture.

After our garden visit, enjoy free time to explore Takamatsu at your own pace. Whether you choose to discover the city’s vibrant shopping streets, sample local specialties like Sanuki udon, or relax along the waterfront, the evening is yours to experience Takamatsu as you wish.

Kindly note that due to luggage restrictions on the bullet train, you will need to pack a small overnight bag for tonight. Your main luggage will be transported separately and will be available at your accommodation on Day 3 in Takamatsu.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ JR Clement Inn
📸 Bullet Train Transfer, Ritsurin Garden Experience

JR Clement Inn Takamatsu is a modern hotel conveniently located near Takamatsu Station, offering easy access to the city's attractions. Guests can expect comfortable accommodations and enjoy a high level of service during their stay.

This morning, we embark on an inspiring journey to Naoshima, Japan’s iconic Art Island. A scenic ferry ride across the Seto Inland Sea brings us to this extraordinary destination, where contemporary art and architecture blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

Upon arrival, we set out on electric bikes, an ideal way to explore the island’s renowned museums and installations. Our first stop is the Chichu Art Museum, an underground masterpiece designed by Tadao Ando, where Monet’s Water Lilies, James Turrell’s ethereal light installations, and Walter De Maria’s striking works create a profound artistic experience. Next, we visit the Lee Ufan Museum, where minimalist sculptures and paintings play with space, silence, and light. Finally, we arrive at the Benesse House Museum, an exquisite fusion of contemporary art and architecture, offering sweeping coastal views that enhance the creative ambiance of the island.

As the day draws to a close, we take the ferry back to Takamatsu. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure - wander through the city’s lively streets, seek out a cozy izakaya for an authentic dining experience, or simply relax by the waterfront, reflecting on the unforgettable artistic journey of the day.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ JR Clement Inn
📸 Art Island Electric Bicycle Tour

JR Clement Inn Takamatsu is a modern hotel conveniently located near Takamatsu Station, offering easy access to the city's attractions. Guests can expect comfortable accommodations and enjoy a high level of service during their stay.

Today, we depart Takamatsu for Matsuyama, traveling by private bus through the picturesque landscapes of Shikoku, known for its lush mountains, serene coastlines, and charming towns. This scenic drive offers an opportunity to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Japan's smallest main island.

Upon reaching Matsuyama, our first stop is the majestic Matsuyama Castle, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the city and beyond. You’ll have the chance to explore the castle grounds, which date back to the early 1600s, and take a ride on the ropeway for an unforgettable view of the surrounding area.

Next, we visit Ishetiji Temple, a tranquil and spiritual site that is part of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, where you can take in the peaceful atmosphere and learn about its historical significance.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to the famed Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring baths. Whether you choose to relax in the luxurious public baths or simply admire the traditional architecture of the iconic Dogo Onsen Honkan, this experience is a must for anyone seeking to embrace Japan’s deep-rooted bathing culture.

After a day of exploration and relaxation, enjoy a free evening in Matsuyama. Whether you want to wander through the bustling streets, try the local specialty tai-meshi (sea bream rice), or enjoy a quiet moment by the Dogo Onsen, the choice is yours.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ Hotel Kowakuen Haruka
📸 Matsuyama Castle, Ishetiji Temple, Dogo Onsen

Hotel Kowakuen HARUKA, located near Dogo Onsen Honkan, Japan's oldest hot spring, offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern comfort. Guests can enjoy stunning city views from the 8th-floor bathhouse, relax in the onsen, and experience authentic Japanese cuisine.

After breakfast, we depart Matsuyama for a scenic journey to Ozu, a charming town along the Shigenobu River, rich in history and natural beauty.

Our first stop in Ozu is the impressive Ozu Castle, a well-preserved feudal fortress offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Wander through the castle grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that highlights the town's historical importance.

Next, we visit Garyu Sanso, a former residence surrounded by lush gardens and scenic walking paths. This elegant villa was built in the Taisho period and provides a glimpse into Japan’s refined traditional lifestyle.

Afterward, we travel to Uchiko, known for its preserved Edo-period streets and traditional crafts. Here, you’ll experience the ancient art of washi paper making. Learn about this intricate process and try your hand at creating your own beautiful handmade paper - an unforgettable cultural experience. Following our time in Uchiko, we return to Matsuyama in the afternoon.

The evening is yours to spend at leisure, whether you choose to revisit any favourite spots in the city or enjoy a local dinner, soaking in the ambiance.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ Hotel Kowakuen Haruka
📸 Ozu Castle, Garyu Sanso, Washi Paper Making

Hotel Kowakuen HARUKA, located near Dogo Onsen Honkan, Japan's oldest hot spring, offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern comfort. Guests can enjoy stunning city views from the 8th-floor bathhouse, relax in the onsen, and experience authentic Japanese cuisine.

This morning, we leave Matsuyama and travel to Yawatahama Ferry Port, where we board a ferry bound for Beppu. As we cross the Seto Inland Sea, enjoy the peaceful journey with stunning coastal views before arriving at Beppu Ferry Port. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take us to our first stop, the Onsen Jigoku Museum. This fascinating exhibit provides insight into Beppu’s unique geothermal activity, showcasing the history, science, and cultural significance of the region’s famous hot springs.

Continuing our exploration, we visit Umijigoku, or "Sea Hell," one of Beppu’s most striking hot springs. The vivid cobalt-blue waters, constantly bubbling and steaming, create an almost surreal landscape. Walking through the surrounding gardens, you'll witness the powerful forces of nature that have shaped Beppu into Japan’s premier onsen destination.

In the late afternoon, we check into our traditional Japanese ryokan, where you can unwind in the soothing onsen baths. The evening culminates with a beautifully presented kaiseki dinner, featuring seasonal ingredients and local delicacies, offering an authentic taste of Kyushu’s rich culinary heritage. This peaceful and immersive experience sets the perfect tone for the days ahead in Beppu.

Kindly note that due to luggage restrictions on the ferry, you will need to pack a small overnight bag for tonight. Your main luggage will be transported separately and will be available at your accommodation on Day 7 in Nagasaki.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ Hotel Sansuikan
📸 “Hells” of Beppu, Traditional Ryokan Stay

Hotel Sansuikan Beppu offers a traditional Japanese onsen experience in the heart of Beppu. Located in the Kannawa Onsen district, guests can enjoy the healing waters of the hot springs, relax in comfortable rooms, and savor local delicacies.

After breakfast, we depart Beppu and embark on a scenic journey to Nagasaki by highway bus. As we travel through the landscapes of Kyushu, enjoy the changing scenery, from coastal views to lush mountains, before arriving in the historic port city of Nagasaki.

Upon arrival, we check in and take the afternoon to explore two of Nagasaki’s most fascinating cultural sites. First, we visit Chinatown, one of Japan’s oldest and most vibrant Chinese quarters, where colourful lanterns, intricate architecture, and the aroma of delicious street food create a lively atmosphere. Take some time to stroll through the bustling streets, sampling local specialties such as Nagasaki champon, a famous noodle dish with a unique blend of flavours influenced by the city’s international heritage.

Next, we step back in time at Dejima, the former Dutch trading post that once served as Japan’s only window to the outside world during the Edo period. Walking through the restored buildings, we gain insight into Nagasaki’s rich history as a hub of international exchange, where European and Japanese cultures blended in trade, architecture, and daily life.

As the afternoon comes to an end, the evening is yours to explore Nagasaki at your own pace. Whether you choose to discover more of the city’s hidden gems, relax at a local café, or enjoy a meal with views of Nagasaki’s scenic harbor, the night offers a perfect chance to soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic city.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ Hotel New Nagasaki
📸 Nagasaki Chinatown, Dejima Port

Ideally situated near JR Nagasaki Station, Hotel New Nagasaki offers convenient access to the city's attractions and transportation. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations and a selection of on-site dining options, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free stay.

This morning, we visit the Nagasaki Peace Park, a solemn yet beautiful memorial dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. Strolling through the park, we see the striking Peace Statue and various monuments donated by countries around the world, symbolizing a collective hope for peace.

Next, we visit the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, which offers a powerful and moving account of the events of August 9, 1945. Through photographs, artifacts, and testimonies, the museum provides deep insight into the impact of the bombing and the resilience of Nagasaki’s people in rebuilding their city.

Following this morning of reflection, the afternoon is free for you to explore Nagasaki at your own pace. You may choose to visit Glover Garden, a historic hillside park with well-preserved Western-style mansions that once belonged to foreign merchants. From here, enjoy panoramic views of Nagasaki’s harbor and gain a glimpse into the city's rich international history.

For those seeking a breathtaking end to the day, an evening visit to Mount Inasa offers one of Japan’s most spectacular night views. Accessible by ropeway or taxi, the summit provides a stunning 360-degree view of Nagasaki’s illuminated cityscape, often ranked among the best night views in the country.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ Hotel New Nagasaki
📸 Nagasaki Peace Park, Atomic Bomb Museum

Ideally situated near JR Nagasaki Station, Hotel New Nagasaki offers convenient access to the city's attractions and transportation. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations and a selection of on-site dining options, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free stay.

After breakfast, we depart Nagasaki and board the Shinkansen, Japan’s famous bullet train, for a smooth and scenic journey to Kagoshima, the southernmost major city on Kyushu Island. As we travel through the changing landscapes of Kyushu, enjoy the views of lush countryside, rolling mountains, and coastal scenery before arriving in Kagoshima.

Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Known as the "Naples of the East," Kagoshima boasts a stunning bayfront setting, historical sites, and a lively food scene. You may choose to take a relaxing stroll through Tenmonkan, the city’s vibrant shopping and dining district, where you can sample local specialties like kurobuta (Berkshire pork) or Satsuma-age (fried fish cakes).

The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure, whether you prefer to relax at a cozy izakaya, take a sunset walk along the bay, or simply rest in preparation for the next day’s adventures.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ JR Kyushu Hotel
📸 Bullet Train Experience

JR Kyushu Hotel Kagoshima is conveniently located directly connected to JR Kagoshima Chuo Station, making it an ideal base for exploring the city and beyond. Guests can enjoy comfortable and modern guest rooms, and savor local Kagoshima cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

Our final full day in Japan is dedicated to exploring the best of Kagoshima, a city rich in history, nature, and breathtaking scenery.

The day begins with a visit to the Shiroyama Observatory, where we take in panoramic views of the city and the imposing Sakurajima volcano across the bay. This vantage point offers a stunning perspective of Kagoshima’s unique landscape and its connection to the surrounding sea and mountains.

Next, we step back in time at Sengan-en, a beautifully preserved samurai residence with traditional gardens. Strolling through the estate, we admire the elegant design, koi-filled ponds, and perfectly framed views of Sakurajima in the distance. The site provides a glimpse into the life of the influential Shimazu clan, who once ruled over the region.

In the afternoon, we take the ferry to Sakurajima, Kagoshima’s iconic active volcano. Upon arrival, we journey up to the Yunohira Observatory, the closest accessible point to the crater, where we witness the power of this natural giant up close. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape and the surrounding bay, a reminder of the region’s dynamic geology.

Returning to the hotel in the late afternoon, we have time to relax before coming together for a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Over a final meal featuring Kagoshima’s renowned cuisine, we reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared, celebrating the memories made along the way.

🥘 Breakfast, Dinner
🛏️ JR Kyushu Hotel
📸 Sengan-en Samurai Experience

JR Kyushu Hotel Kagoshima is conveniently located directly connected to JR Kagoshima Chuo Station, making it an ideal base for exploring the city and beyond. Guests can enjoy comfortable and modern guest rooms, and savor local Kagoshima cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

Enjoy a leisurely morning and afternoon with free time in Kagoshima to explore the city at your own pace. You may choose to revisit favourite spots, relax in a local café, or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. For those seeking more adventure, consider a stroll along the scenic waterfront, a visit to a local onsen, or a peaceful walk through one of Kagoshima’s charming parks.

In the late afternoon, we gather for our transfer from Kagoshima Station to Shibushi Port, where we board the Sunflower Ferry for an unforgettable overnight journey to Osaka. As we set sail across the calm waters, settle into your comfortable cabin and enjoy the ferry’s amenities. You can relax on deck, take in the sea breeze, or watch the sunset over the horizon as we glide through the waters of the Pacific.

This overnight voyage offers a unique and peaceful way to reflect on our journey through Japan, as we drift toward the final leg of our adventure.

🥘 Breakfast
🛏️ Sunflower Ferry

The Sunflower Ferry offers a relaxed and scenic overnight journey between Kagoshima and Osaka, connecting the southern island of Kyushu with Japan’s Kansai region. Travelling across the Seto Inland Sea, the ferry provides a unique alternative to air or rail travel, with views of Japan’s coastline, islands, and port towns along the way. Onboard, passengers can choose from Western or Japanese-style cabins, enjoy hot meals in the restaurant, soak in communal baths, and unwind in comfortable lounges. It’s a convenient and unhurried way to travel, allowing time to rest and enjoy the transition between two distinct parts of the country.

This morning, we arrive at Osaka Ferry Port, marking the end of our incredible journey through Japan. As we disembark from the Sunflower Ferry, you’ll have the option to continue your travels according to your personal plans.

For those with flights to catch, direct transfers are available to Osaka’s Kansai International Airport for your onward journey home. Alternatively, if you wish to extend your adventure, you can choose to spend more time exploring the vibrant city of Osaka.

Thank you for being part of this unforgettable tour with Remarkable East, filled with cultural discoveries, scenic landscapes, and cherished memories. We hope your journey has been inspiring and that the spirit of Japan stays with you long after you return home.