Beyond the Blossoms Hidden Japan

Day 1 - Saturday 10 April 2027

Melbourne - Tokyo (Meals in Flight)

Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel.  Your tour hostess and fellow travellers will meet you at the designated departure point at Melbourne Airport for our flight to Tokyo. Sit back, relax and enjoy the flight. 

Upon arrival at Narita Airport, an English-speaking guide will meet us at the customs exit. We will be assisted in boarding a chartered coach transfer to our hotel in Tokyo.

Tokyo is the capital of Japan, a city with 12 million residents and 3 million commuters from neighbouring cities each day, for a total of 15 million people on most days. Famous for its spectacular architecture, futuristic displays, upmarket shopping and unique fashion sense, plenty of free time is allowed here to explore.

Overnight - Villa Fontaine Shiodome (or similar )

Day 2 - Sunday 11 April 2027

Tokyo (B,L,D)

Today, enjoy a full-day exploration of Tokyo, a fascinating city where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge modernity.

Our day begins with a visit to the beautiful gardens of the Tokyo Imperial Palace, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. We then continue to the historic district of Asakusa, home to the renowned Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temple, where traditional streets and local culture offer a glimpse into old Japan.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll travel through the vibrant Shibuya district and experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world and a symbol of modern Tokyo. Later, we’ll stroll through the picturesque Hamarikyu Gardens, a beautifully landscaped Edo-period garden set against the backdrop of the city skyline.

After returning to the hotel for some time to relax and refresh, we’ll gather this evening for a special welcome dinner with our fellow od travellers—an opportunity to get to know one another and celebrate the beginning of our unforgettable journey through Japan.

Overnight - Villa Fontaine Shiodome (or similar )

Day 3 - Monday 12 April 2027

Tokyo (B,L,D)

Enjoy a relaxed start to the day before departing the hotel at approximately 9:30am for a hands-on sushi-making experience led by a professional sushi chef. Learn the art behind one of Japan’s most iconic culinary traditions and create your own delicious creations under expert guidance.

Following the class, we’ll gain further insight into Japanese culture with an engaging lesson in traditional etiquette. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore Tokyo at your own pace, browse unique boutiques, or wander the charming backstreets and hidden laneways that reveal a different side of the city.

This evening, we’ll experience a memorable dinner aboard a traditional Yakatabune, a beautifully appointed Japanese-style houseboat. As we cruise across Tokyo Bay, enjoy a delicious meal while taking in spectacular views of Tokyo’s illuminated skyline from the water.

Overnight - Villa Fontaine Shiodome (or similar )

Day 4 - Tuesday 13 April 2027

Tokyo - Utsunomiya (B,L)

Today marks the beginning of our journey north as we follow Japan’s famous cherry blossom front through the country’s most picturesque spring landscapes.

Our first stop is Kawagoe, affectionately known as “Little Edo” for its beautifully preserved streets and traditional architecture that evoke the atmosphere of old Tokyo before modernisation. To fully immerse ourselves in the experience, we’ll dress in elegant kimono attire and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic town, soaking up its timeless charm.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll take part in a traditional notebook-making workshop, offering a unique opportunity to learn about Japanese craftsmanship and create a special keepsake to take home.

Later this afternoon, we continue to Utsunomiya, our home for the next three nights as we explore the natural beauty and cultural treasures of the region.

Dinner this evening is at leisure. Utsunomiya is renowned throughout Japan for its delicious gyoza dumplings, making it the perfect opportunity to venture out and sample this local specialty.

Overnight - Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Utsunomiya (or similar)

Day 6 - Wednesday 14 April 2027

Utsunomiya (B,L)

After breakfast, we’ll set out for a day of spectacular scenery and seasonal beauty in the Nikko region, one of Japan’s most treasured national park areas. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and spring blossoms, Nikko offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Our first visit is to the magnificent Toshogu Shrine, an ornate UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate carvings and striking black, white, and gold architecture. Dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of Japan’s great unifiers and the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, the shrine is considered one of the country’s most important historical and spiritual landmarks.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll continue deeper into the national park, enjoying beautiful spring scenery as we make our way to the breathtaking Kegon Waterfall. Plunging nearly 100 metres into the gorge below, Kegon is regarded as one of Japan’s most spectacular waterfalls and is particularly stunning when framed by the colours of the season.

Late this afternoon, we’ll return to Utsunomiya. The evening is ours to enjoy at leisure, offering another opportunity to explore the local dining scene.

Overnight - Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Utsunomiya (or similar)

Day 7 - Thursday 15 April 2027

Utsunomiya (B,L)

Today, we journey into neighbouring Ibaraki Prefecture to visit the breathtaking Hitachi Seaside Park, one of Japan’s most celebrated floral destinations. Spanning vast rolling hills overlooking the Pacific coast, the park is renowned for its ever-changing displays of seasonal flowers and stunning natural beauty.

While the park is perhaps best known for its sea of delicate blue nemophila flowers, which typically reach their peak later in April, the landscape is beautiful throughout the season, with colourful blooms creating a picturesque setting at every turn.

We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing with a hands-on cultural experience this afternoon.

Our featured activity is Tsumami-zaiku, a traditional Japanese craft that originated during the Edo period (1603–1868). This intricate art form involves carefully folding and assembling small squares of coloured fabric using fine tweezers to create delicate floral and decorative designs. Guided by local artisans, we’ll have the opportunity to learn this beautiful technique and create your own unique keepsake to take home.

Overnight - Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Utsunomiya (or similar)

Day 8 - Friday 16 April 20257

Utsunomiya - Aizu-Wakamatsu (B,L,D)

This morning, we bid farewell to Utsunomiya and continue our journey north to Aizu-Wakamatsu, a historic samurai city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and enduring traditions.

Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before exploring the impressive Tsuruga Castle, one of the region’s most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by beautiful seasonal scenery, the castle stands as a symbol of the samurai spirit that shaped the history of Aizu. During our visit, we’ll also take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, gaining insight into one of Japan’s most cherished cultural practices.

This evening promises to be a true highlight of the tour as we make our way to the charming Higashiyama Onsen district and settle into our traditional ryokan accommodation. Here, you'll experience the timeless elegance of Japanese hospitality, complete with tatami mat flooring, soothing hot spring baths, and an exquisite kaiseki-style banquet dinner showcasing regional flavours.

Adding to the experience, we’ll be treated to an exclusive evening with the Higashiyama Geigi, Aizu-Wakamatsu’s own geisha tradition, offering a rare glimpse into the artistry, music, and cultural customs that have been preserved for generations.

Overnight - Kutsurogijuku Chiyotaki (or similar)

Day 9 - Saturday 17 April 2027

Aizu-Wakamatsu (B,L,D)

Today is dedicated to experiencing the timeless charm and seasonal beauty of the Aizu region, where the cherry blossoms are expected to be at their peak.

Our morning takes us to the beautifully preserved village of Ouchi-juku, a former post town that seems frozen in time. Lined with traditional thatched-roof buildings and surrounded by picturesque countryside, this historic settlement offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s Edo-period past. While here, we’ll enjoy the region’s famous Negi-soba specialty—a unique and memorable dining experience where soba noodles are traditionally eaten using a large green onion in place of chopsticks.

This afternoon, we’ll return to Aizu-Wakamatsu to participate in an Akabeko painting workshop. Akabeko, the region’s iconic red cow, is a beloved folk symbol said to bring good fortune, strength, and protection. During this hands-on cultural experience, we’ll have the opportunity to decorate our own Akabeko to take home as a special souvenir.

We’ll then continue our exploration of the region with more cherry blossom viewing along the scenic Yukawa River, where rows of blooming sakura create one of the area’s most enchanting spring landscapes.

This evening, we return to our ryokan to relax and enjoy another delicious dinner, reflecting on a day filled with culture, tradition, and seasonal beauty

Overnight - Kutsurogijuku Chiyotaki (or similar).

Day 10 - Sunday 18 April 2027

Aizu-Wakamatsu - Sendai ( B,L,D)

Today, we continue our journey through northern Japan as we depart Aizu-Wakamatsu and make our way to Sendai, the vibrant capital of Miyagi Prefecture and one of the largest cities in the Tohoku region.

Known as the “City of Trees,” Sendai is deeply connected to the legacy of Date Masamune, one of Japan’s most influential feudal lords of the Edo period. His presence can still be felt throughout the city, and this morning we’ll visit Zuihoden Mausoleum, his beautifully preserved final resting place, renowned for its intricate architecture and peaceful forest setting.

After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll continue to the scenic coastal area of Matsushima Bay, celebrated as one of Japan’s three most picturesque landscapes. We’ll embark on a relaxing cruise through the bay, taking in the breathtaking views of hundreds of pine-covered islands rising from the water—an unforgettable scene that has inspired artists and poets for centuries.

This evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before settling into our accommodation in Sendai for the night.

Hotel Grand Bach Sendai (or similar) 

Day 11 - Monday 19 April 2027

Sendai - Lake Tazawa (B,L,D)

We have an early start this morning to drive north to Morioka prefecture. We’ll be taking a cruise down Geibikei Gorge, and enjoying lunch near here.

This is one of the most unique experiences in this part of Japan; so exclusive, almost no Australians have ever been to this part of Japan.

After lunch, we’re headed to Kakunodate Samurai Village, one of the most spectacular cherry blossom viewing spots in Northern Japan

We’ll be continuing on toward Lake Tazawa for our accommodation this evening, with dinner at the hotel.

Overnight - Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen (Or similar)

Day 12 - Tuesday 20 April 2027

Lake Tazawa - Hirosaki (B,L)

This morning, we continue north to one of Japan’s most beautiful natural landscapes, the Oirase Stream area. Flowing through a pristine forest and national park setting, Oirase is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque walking trails, moss-covered rocks, and cascading waterfalls. Remote and largely undiscovered by international visitors, this breathtaking region offers a rare opportunity to experience the tranquil beauty of Japan’s wilderness.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll travel to Hirosaki, home to one of Japan’s most celebrated cherry blossom destinations. Set against the backdrop of the historic Hirosaki Castle, the surrounding park is famous for its spectacular displays of sakura, with thousands of cherry trees creating a sea of pink throughout the grounds.

Time permitting, we’ll also visit a local brewery to sample some of the region’s renowned sake and learn more about this centuries-old Japanese tradition.

This evening, we’ll stay in Hirosaki, with free time to explore the city and enjoy dinner at our leisure.

Please note that today is our luggage forwarding day. Our main suitcases will be sent ahead to the Mt. Fuji region, so we ask that you prepare an overnight bag with everything needed for the next two nights.

Overnight - Art Hotel Hirosaki  (or similar)

Day 13 - Wednesday 21 April 2027

Hirosaki - Mt Fuji Region (B,D)

Today we begin our journey to the iconic Mt. Fuji region, travelling in true Japanese style aboard one of the country’s world-famous bullet trains.

This morning, we’ll make our way to Shin-Aomori Station, where there will be an opportunity to purchase a traditional Japanese bento lunch at your own expense before boarding the train. We’ll then settle in for a scenic 3.5-hour journey south to Tokyo on the Shinkansen, offering a comfortable and efficient way to experience Japan’s remarkable rail network while enjoying lunch along the way.

Upon arrival at Ueno Station in Tokyo, we’ll transfer to our private coach and continue to the picturesque Lake Yamanaka area, nestled at the foot of majestic Mt. Fuji.

After checking into our hotel, the remainder of the day is ours to relax and enjoy the property’s facilities. Take in the peaceful surroundings, soak in the atmosphere of the Fuji Five Lakes region, or simply unwind and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Overnight - Hotel Mount Fuji (or similar)

Day 14 - Thursday 22 April 2027

Mt Fuji Region (B,L,D)

Today, we’ll explore the spectacular Fuji Five Lakes region, an area renowned for its breathtaking scenery and some of Japan’s most iconic views of Mt. Fuji.

Our day begins with a visit to Oshino Hakkai, a charming village famous for its crystal-clear spring-fed ponds, traditional architecture, and postcard-perfect views of Japan’s most celebrated mountain. Fed by the snowmelt of Mt. Fuji, these pristine ponds are considered among the purest waters in the country.

Next, we’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise on Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes. Relax and take in the stunning natural surroundings as we glide across the tranquil waters, with magnificent views of Mt. Fuji reflected on the lake's surface.

We’ll then make our way to Fujiyama Tower at Fuji-Q Highland, one of the region’s premier viewpoints and an outstanding location for capturing unforgettable photographs of Mt. Fuji. Lunch will be enjoyed in this scenic setting.

This afternoon, we’ll visit the remarkable Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, dedicated to the life and work of renowned kimono artist Kubota Itchiku. Set amidst beautiful gardens and natural surroundings, the museum showcases his extraordinary textile masterpieces, inspired by traditional Japanese dyeing techniques and the beauty of nature.

We’ll return to our hotel in the late afternoon, allowing time to relax and enjoy the facilities before gathering for dinner this evening.

Overnight - Hotel Mount Fuji (or similar)

Day 15 - Friday 23 April 2027

Mt Fuji Region (B,L,D)

For our final day in the Mt. Fuji region, we’ll travel to the shores of Lake Motosu to visit the spectacular Fuji Shibazakura Festival, one of Japan’s most colourful spring celebrations.

Set against the magnificent backdrop of Mt. Fuji, the festival is famous for its vibrant fields of pink shibazakura (moss phlox), which carpet the landscape in brilliant shades of pink, purple, and white. While our visit is early in the flowering season, the blooms are expected to be beginning their annual display, creating a beautiful contrast with the snow-capped peak of Mt. Fuji. The accompanying festival atmosphere, featuring local food stalls, seasonal treats, and regional products, adds to the charm of this unique experience.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll return to our hotel for a leisurely afternoon. Take time to relax, enjoy the hotel’s facilities, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings as we savour our final moments in the breathtaking Fuji Five Lakes region before continuing our journey.

Overnight - Hotel Mount Fuji (or similar)

Day 16 - Saturday 24 April 2027

Mt Fuji Region - Tokyo (B,L,D)

Today, we bid farewell to the Mt. Fuji region and make our way back to Tokyo, enjoying sightseeing and scenic stops along the journey. We’ll pause for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing into Japan’s vibrant capital city.

Upon arrival in Tokyo, the afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure. This is the perfect opportunity for some last-minute shopping, independent sightseeing, or simply relaxing and reflecting on the incredible experiences shared throughout the journey.

This evening, we’ll come together one final time for a special farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships formed, the memories created, and the unforgettable adventure we’ve experienced across Japan.

Overnight - Villa Fontaine Shiodome (or similar)

Day 17 - Sunday 25 April 2027

Tokyo - Melbourne (B, Meals In Flight)

After finishing up with any last minute shopping or sightseeing today, we will be transferred to Tokyo Airport for our departure flight.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the in-flight entertainment of the airlines as we head towards home

Day 18 - Monday 26 April 2027

Welcome Home

Welcome Home! 

Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure!