Japan Curated.
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A sampling of our itineraries below. Get in touch to start tailoring your Japan trip.
JAPAN FOR ART LOVERS
Tokyo, Hakone, Naoshima Art Islands, Kyoto
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This journey immerses you to the modern and contemporary art world starting from cosmopolitan Tokyo. You will be introduced to the local art and creative movers and shakers in the various neighborhoods of this city, whether it’s commercial, non-profit or underground, it is what makes Tokyo such a unique place unlike any other. After the introductory plunge into Japanese culture, we take an excursion to Hiroshi Sugimoto’s Enoura Observatory selected by Conde Naste as one of the most exciting destinations for 2019. Next, we sweep across to the highlight of your trip visiting the Naoshima Art Islands.
Your final stop will be in Kyoto, one of the most beautiful cities on earth that has just the right balance of cultural heritage with modernity and nature. You'll be meeting artists in their studios, the top art collectors, museum directors, and culture insiders along the trip.
MODERN ARCHITECTURE & GARDENS
Tokyo, Kyoto, Karuizawa
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Japan's modern landscape is a rich and vibrant mosaic of traditional landmarks and ultra-futuristic buildings. The country is renowned for architecture by starchitects including Kengo Kuma, Tadao Ando, Sou Fujimoto, Kazuyo Sejima, SANAA, Shigeru Ban, among others. This immersive architecture and gardens itinerary begins in Tokyo, then to the resort town of Karuizawa, before ending in Kyoto. Your guide, a professional architect in Tokyo will allow you to appreciate how cultural phenomena and historical affairs have imbued buildings and urban sites with meaning. Allow yourself to be given rich information for a broader understanding of Tokyo. You will also be guided to hidden architectural gems in Karuizawa. In Kyoto, you will visit some of the ancient capital’s hidden gardens commissioned by merchants/politicians, as well as some of the finest examples of gardening, learning about Japanese garden features through the eyes of a garden designer.
COUPLES / FAMILIES / FRIENDS
Cherry Blossom or Fall Foliage Seasons
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Arrive to a private glamp site or resort via helicopter near Mt. Fuji, or Nara during the Fall Foliage season
Spend two days with gorgeous cherry blossom views overlooking the stunning Mount Fuji, or in a private mountaintop villa surrounding the beautiful and peaceful nature of Nara, offering some of the best cherry blossom views and Fall foliage
En-route to Kyoto, visit Miho Museum (can arrange a private performance dinner for small groups)
Spend 3-5 days in Kyoto (itinerary designed according to the interest of the guests, from classic to exclusive VIP access)
Spend 2 days 2 nights on a luxury floating ryokan with top sushi chefs on board, while enjoying the Setouchi Islands in Western Japan. Optional excursions: Naoshima, Okayama, etc.
End the journey with one night in Osaka, experiencing the food capital of Japan with a food / cultural tour
Nara, Less Travelled
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A helicopter ride over the green, autumn-tinted, snowy or cherry blossom countryside will take you away to a secluded home-turned-resort in a Nara less traveled. Your host, a laid back and welcoming local who practices the meditations and ways of the yamabushi mountain ascetics will treat you to an authentic getaway of cultural immersion in the Japanese countryside. Tailored to fit the personalities and interests of our guests, this sojourn can be transformed into a romantic getaway, family excursion, active days of adventure, moments of art amongst nature and serenity, or a stay of pure relaxation while basking in the breathtaking nature and calming atmosphere of this tucked-away haven.
You will enjoy a stay in a traditional thatched-roof villa, tastefully adorned with rich, sacred and excellently handcrafted relics, a property refined and including catering to fit the exquisite tastes and preferences of the high-end and well-traveled. You will have the option for Michelin Star Japanese cuisine for your evening meals, provided by a local chef.
ISLANDS / SAILING / RETREATS
Okinawa, Kyushu, Setouchi Islands
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Okinawa Island's "Kerama" blue is world renowned and many of the beaches has the world's most pristine turquoise water. Besides the magnificent beaches and coastlines that offer an amazing array of undersea life, there are also many UNESCO heritage sites and ruins to discover. Since 2020, many creatives and cultural entrepreneurs have established businesses such as boutiques, cafes, restaurants, etc. marking Okinawa as the next up-and-coming cultural destination. Okinawa really has a special air of its own and is suitable for any age group.
We are publishing our own Okinawa Insider's Pocketguide to be distributed globally. Get on our mailing list and tune in for updates!
Kyushu is a land full of energy, from its vibrant people to its famous volcanoes. Through our private tours, you will experience Oita's dynamic landscapes, relax in the many hot springs, and enjoy the warmth of genuine hospitality by local insiders.
Soak in Beppu's abundant onsen (2nd largest in the world) and high-quality volcanic spring water, then take a breathtaking volcano road trip along the Yamanami (lit. 'Mountain Waves') highway through the undulating landscapes of the valleys and uplands of the island. Venture out on a private cruise all-day excursion on a new teak deck 40+ ft. sail boat, with champagne and refreshments, and enjoy Kyushu from the sea.