Embark on an adventurous journey through Japan's lesser-visited islands, exploring cultural wonders and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Mix deep culture and active adventures to experience Japan like never before
  • Explore the lesser-visited islands of Kyushu and Shikoku and historic Nagasaki
  • Ride the glorious Shimanami Kaido, among the world’s great cycle routes
  • Summit two peaks on Mount Aso, Japan’s most active volcano
  • Master ‘hell steam’ cuisine – Beppu’s centuries-old cooking style
  • Visit the 600-year-old Himeji Castle, one of the few remaining castles from Japan’s feudal period
  • Experience the Edo-era town of Uchiko and make traditional Japanese washi paper

We aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines.



Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. If you would like to add to your existing booking, we strongly recommend you request well before 30 days before departure. Booking requests within 30 days before departure, and especially during peak season (March-April/October-November), may not be possible due to limited availability during peak travel periods.



Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we pair solo passengers together in a room. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement (subject to availability). The single supplement is valid for all nights.  In Japan, often single supplements are accommodated in either a single or a twin-bedded room. Double for sole use rooms are limited in availability and cannot be guaranteed. Speak to your sales representative to book.



Onsen (Japanese hot springs)

For many visitors to Japan, the onsen is unfamiliar territory. An onsen is a Japanese hot spring and the bathing facilities and inns frequently situated around them. The combination of a strict bathing etiquette, that nudity is compulsory, and that the water temperature is often hotter than most whirlpool baths can cause some reluctance for first timers. However, once the courage is mustered, you may discover that an onsen is one of the highlights of your visit to Japan. Please be aware, you may be refused entry if you have large and visible tattoos. Some accommodations may have private baths available for reservation.



Worth knowing



Room sizes and beds in Western-style hotels in Japan are generally smaller. Twin rooms will be provided as standard for two passengers sharing a room, as these offer more space and comfort than double rooms.

Some accommodations may provide slippers and yukata (a Japanese-style dressing gown).