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Exploring Japan on a cultural tour

We grasp the essence of Japanese cultural heritage: from the samurai houses of Kanazawa, to Nara, the cradle of Buddhist Japan, where we study the world’s oldest wooden temple. In Kyoto, the Japanese tea ceremony thrives and Zen Buddhist rock gardens beckon.

We explore the art of Japan and unveil an eclectic legacy: Discover vibrant ukiyo-e woodblocks, painted screens and shrines – then dart by bullet train travel to Naoshima, Japan’s famed art colony where contemporary jewels by Kusama, Hockney and Warhol intrigue in Tadao Ando galleries.

From legacies of tea masters to samurai and Buddhist priests, Japanese gardens have been shaped by extraordinary stories of social, horticultural and aesthetic expression over 1,600 years. On visits to Japanese gardens, specialist Yoko Kawaguchi takes us on a comprehensive 12 day discovery of these symbolic spaces.

Expect the temples, Geisha culture, and neon–bright Tokyo on our itineraries, but our experts will take you to the heart of Japan: the reinterpretations and revelations will come thick and fast.

Featured cultural tours in Japan

" Yoko was just fabulous. She provided us with rich historical content while sharing her deep knowledge of Japan and its gardens. She was a passionate and an excellent communicator, and answered our questions patiently and authoritatively. It was a pleasure to listen to her and learn from her. She is such a treasure! " Japanese Gardens - Tokyo, Kyoto, Hikone, Nara & Kanazawa
" Yoko brought the gardens to life! Her knowledge was extensive and her explanations clear and interesting. " Japanese Gardens - Tokyo, Kyoto, Hikone, Nara & Kanazawa
" Timon Screech was an absolute legend! He is so well informed, so enthusiastic, so engaged, and integrated into the group. I feel terribly lucky to have had the chance to be on this tour with access to his inspired teaching. " Art in Japan - Art, craft, architecture & design

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