ITINERARY THREE
Art, Heritage
& Flavours
Immerse yourself in a journey that blends art, history, and serene landscapes across some of Japanβs most captivating destinations.
Where weβll go and what weβll see:
Osaka
Step into the lively streets of Dotonbori, where neon signs, delicious street food, and the electric buzz of the city create an unforgettable vibe. Try the iconic takoyaki while soaking up the nightlife. For a slice of history, visit Osaka Castle, a stunning symbol of resilience with panoramic views from its tower. Itβs a city where the past and present come alive, offering something for everyone.
Kurashiki
Known for its picturesque canals and traditional Edo-era warehouses, the city has a long history of high-quality denim production since the 1970s, often called "Kurashiki Denim." Don't miss the chance to shop for locally made jeans and decorative washi tape, both iconic products of the town's artisanal culture.
Okayama
Famous for Korakuen, one of Japan's top three gardens, Okayama offers a serene escape with its stunning landscapes, tranquil ponds, and traditional Japanese garden designs. Spending the night here allows you to experience a less touristy city and avoid the usual crowds, making it a peaceful and relaxing destination.
Art Islands
Discover a seamless blend of art and nature on Japanβs Art Islands. On Naoshima, the iconic Yellow Pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama stands boldly against the Seto Inland Sea. Explore masterpieces like the Chichu Art Museum and the serene Teshima Art Museum. Every corner offers creativity and stunning landscapes that will captivate your senses.
Hiroshima
Hiroshima invites reflection and hope at the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Dome, a poignant reminder of history. But itβs not all somber - the city brims with vibrant energy and mouthwatering okonomiyaki.
Miyajima
Just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima, Miyajima Island feels like stepping into a dream. Marvel at the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, its torii gate seemingly floating on the sea at high tide. Friendly deer wander the island, adding a magical touch itβs a journey youβll never forget!
Itinerary
6 May - Day One: Arrival in Osaka
Arrive in Osaka, settle into your accommodation, and enjoy a welcome dinner. We will have an introduction and get to know each other.
Inclusions: Dinner
7 May - Day Two: Exploring Osaka
Activities: Begin your day with a visit to the vibrant Dotonbori district, famous for its neon lights and street food, followed by a walk to the historic Osaka Castle. Then we will join a Kintsugi masterclass in the evening.
Please ensure you have all the essentials packed for the islands, as we will be sending your luggage to Hiroshima. Kindly have your luggage ready for shipment by 5pm.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8 May - Day Three: Okayama and Kurashiki
We will take a morning train to Okayama and explore the charming Kurashiki Canal area. Experience: making your own unique pair of jeans. Lunch will be on your own, but there are plenty of cafes in the areaβlet us know if you'd like some recommendations!
In the afternoon, we'll visit the beautiful Okayama Korakuen Garden and enjoy dinner together.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner
9 May - Day Four: Naoshima Island
Head to Naoshima by ferry for a day immersed in art and nature. We will pick up our rental motorized bicycles (with assisted pedaling) on arrival. Visit the Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House, and enjoy some free time before experiencing the unique Naoshima Bath "Iβ₯ζΉ―.β
Inclusions: Breakfast
10 May - Day Five: Teshima Island
Ferry to Teshima for a day of exploration. We will pick up our rental motorized bicycles (with assisted pedaling) on arrival. Visit the Teshima Art Museum, Teshima Yokoo House, and enjoy free time before taking the 18:40 ferry back to Uno Port. Unwind at the renowned Tamanoyu Onsen, where you can relax in a variety of rejuvenating baths, followed by a delicious dinner made with fresh, locally sourced produce.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner
There are several restaurant options in Naoshima and Teshima, though they are quite small and may not accommodate our whole group. If you'd like, let us know and we can provide some lunch and dinner recommendations!
11 May - Day Six: Hiroshima Arrival and Cooking Workshop
Activities: Travel by train from Okayama to Hiroshima. Experience the Okonomiyaki cooking class to learn about local culinary traditions.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner
12 May - Day Seven: Hiroshima Walking Tour
Activities: Take a guided walking tour around Hiroshima, learning about its history and cultural landmarks. The afternoon is free for additional exploration or relaxation.
Inclusions: Breakfast
13 May - Day Eight: Miyajima and Return to Osaka
Activities: Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island during the morning. Then, transfer back to Hiroshima Station for a midday train to Osaka, where you'll check in and unwind. The evening is free for exploration and last souvenirs shopping before your departure.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner
14 May - Day Nine: Farewell Breakfast in Osaka
Activities: Enjoy a farewell breakfast to conclude your journey before departing.
Inclusions: Breakfast
Who is this trip for?
Hey, adventurer! If youβve got a curious heart and a love for discovering the unexpected, this trip was made for you. Whether itβs wandering quiet streets, chatting with friendly locals, or crafting something unique with your own hands, youβll find it here. And the best part? Weβve done the planning, so all you have to do is enjoy the ride. Hereβs what makes this trip special:
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
Escape the crowds and explore peaceful rural towns, scenic bike trails, and hidden corners of Japan. This is your chance to uncover the side of Japan most tourists miss.
Interactive Experiences
Roll up your sleeves and get creative! Youβll customize your own jeans, learn the art of kintsugi, and even master cooking okonomiyakiβall while connecting with warm and welcoming locals.
The Iconic Highlights, Without the Rush
Visit famous spots in Osaka and Hiroshima, snap those must-have photos, and indulge in shopping, but with a more relaxed pace and room to breathe.
A Perfect Balance of Exploration and Rest
From meaningful moments to well-deserved breaks, weβve crafted an itinerary thatβs exciting without being overwhelming. Snack stops and downtime are part of the plan!
This trip is for those who value connection over chaosβwhere small, authentic moments are just as rewarding as the big sights. Weβll handle the tricky logistics and get you to those hidden gems, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the experience.
Sound like your kind of adventure? Letβs make some memories together!
Inclusions
Meals: 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners.
Enjoy a variety of delicious, authentic Japanese meals, including a welcome dinner, local specialties like Okonomiyaki, and unique experiences such as onsen dinner.
Transportation: Ferries, trains, bike rentals, and hotel transfers.
All travel between destinations is included, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey, with the option to explore Art Islands with rented motorized bikes.
Activities:
Museum Admissions: Get inspired by Chichu Museum and Teshima Museum and Benesse House Museum located on little islands in the middle of the sea!
Walks and Bike Rides: Enjoy guided walks through scenic streets, and bike along beautiful trails in Naoshima and Teshima.
Guided Tours: Explore Osaka, Hiroshima, Okayama, and Kurashiki with expert guides, sharing insights into the culture and recommendations for each area.
Cooking Class: Learn to prepare Okonomiyaki, a traditional Hiroshima specialty, under the guidance of a local chef.
Shika Deer Interaction: Visit the iconic Miyajima Island and interact with the famous Shika deer.
Onsen Relaxation: Unwind in the soothing waters of Tamanoyu Onsen, where you can enjoy the rejuvenating experience of open-air baths under the sky.
Accommodation: Osaka (2 nights), Okayama (1 night), Naoshima (1 night), Tamano (1 night), Hiroshima (2 nights), Osaka (1 night)
Convenience & Support:
Portable Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout the trip with a portable Wi-Fi device provided for easy access to maps, photos, and communication.
Luggage Delivery: Convenient luggage transfer service to Hiroshima, allowing you to travel light when heading to the islands.
Japanese-Speaking Group Leader: Your group leader, fluent in Japanese, has extensive experience living and traveling in Japan, offering valuable insights and ensuring smooth operations.
Breaks and Free Time: Did you spot a tiny ramen shop during your walk that wasnβt on the itinerary? Or a charming pottery studio where you could lose track of time? Donβt worryβyouβll have plenty of free time to return and explore it at your own pace!
Meet Anastasiia Golovanova
Her story with Japan started when she was just three years old, living in Sapporo with her family. She went to a local kindergarten, picked up the language naturally, and settled into life like any other child. Then they moved back to Russia, and β without anyone to speak Japanese with β she forgot it all.
Fast forward to university, and something pulled her back. She started learning Japanese again from scratch, determined to reconnect with the country that had once felt like home. At 19, she spent a short exchange in Hokkaido, followed by a year in Chiba.
βI was just a student with barely any money, so I travelled the best way I could β hitchhiking, taking local trains, meeting incredible people along the way.β
One of those people would change her life β she met her now-husband during that year. Japan didnβt just give her adventures; it led her to Australia.
In 2024, she finally returned to Japan, this time with fresh eyes. The experience was incredible β familiar, and new all at once.
Having lived, studied, and travelled through Japan in such an immersive way, Anastasiia deeply understands what makes a journey there truly authentic. Whether itβs the hidden local gems, the cultural nuances, or the best way to experience Japan beyond the tourist trail, she loves helping others discover the real Japan β just as she has, time and time again.
For Anastasiia, travel isnβt just about seeing new places. Itβs about the moments, the connections, and the unexpected turns that shape who we become.
