Tour Introduction
Experience Japan at its most beautiful as we follow the country's famous cherry blossom season from the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the hidden treasures of Northern Japan. This carefully curated journey combines iconic sights with authentic cultural experiences, taking you beyond the usual tourist trail to discover historic samurai towns, traditional villages, breathtaking natural landscapes, and some of Japan's most spectacular sakura viewing locations. Along the way, enjoy hands-on cultural activities, scenic cruises, a traditional ryokan stay with hot springs, and unforgettable views of Mt. Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes region. Blending culture, history, nature, and seasonal beauty, this unique springtime adventure showcases a side of Japan that few international visitors ever experience.Itinerary Map
Highlights
Discover the vibrant city of Tokyo, including historic temples, traditional districts, and modern landmarks
Experience authentic Japanese culture through sushi making, kimono wearing, and traditional craft workshops
Explore historic samurai towns and castles, including Aizu-Wakamatsu and Kakunodate
Stay in a traditional ryokan and relax in natural hot springs
Enjoy an exclusive evening of traditional geigi (geisha) entertainment
Cruise through the stunning islands of Matsushima Bay and the dramatic Geibikei Gorge
Visit some of Japan’s most spectacular cherry blossom viewing locations
Discover the remote natural beauty of Oirase Stream and Northern Japan’s scenic landscapes
Travel on Japan’s famous Shinkansen bullet train
Explore the Fuji Five Lakes region and enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji
Visit the colourful Fuji Shibazakura Festival and its fields of pink moss phlox
Enjoy a carefully curated journey combining culture, nature, history, and seasonal beauty away from the usual tourist trail
Inclusions
Fully escorted from Australia, with a Sisterhood tour hostess on hand for support and to help make your holiday truly memorable
Return airfares ex Melbourne including taxes (Other departure cities and upgrades available upon request)
Specialist English-speaking guide
Private transportation throughout
All meals as described in the itinerary
All sightseeing as described in the itinerary
Quality accommodation as described in the itinerary
Willing to share option (subject to availability)
Meet & Greet via Zoom
Notice
Activity Level:
This tour is ideal for travellers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy immersive cultural sightseeing and discovering Japan beyond the usual tourist trail. Expect regular walking throughout the journey, with extended periods on your feet exploring temples, castles, gardens, historic towns and traditional villages. You'll travel by coach, bullet train, ferry and local transport, and should be comfortable boarding and disembarking independently while keeping pace with the group. Historic sites often include stone pathways, steps, gentle hills and uneven surfaces, while some traditional accommodation and dining experiences may require good mobility and agility. More than 10,000 steps can be expected on several sightseeing days.
Activity Factors:
✔ Regular walking on most sightseeing days
✔ Guided sightseeing through historic towns and cultural precincts
✔ Temple and shrine visits with steps and uneven pathways
✔ Walking through traditional gardens and castles
✔ Bullet train and coach travel throughout Japan
✔ Ferry and boat travel where included
✔ Historic streets with cobblestones and natural surfaces
✔ Extended periods standing during sightseeing
✔ Managing luggage during rail travel when required
✔ More than 10,000 steps possible on several days
✘ No compulsory hiking or trekking
✘ No sustained steep mountain climbs
✘ No high-altitude walking
✘ No technically strenuous activities
Recommended Meal Allowance:
Breakfast is included daily, along with most lunches and dinners throughout the tour. This leaves only a small number of meals at your own expense, giving you the opportunity to sample local cafés, ramen bars, izakayas or regional specialties during your free time. As a general guide, allow approximately JPY1,500–2,500 for a casual lunch and JPY3,000–5,000 for dinner at a local restaurant. Hotel restaurants, alcoholic beverages and premium dining experiences will naturally cost more. For comfortable budgeting, we recommend allowing approximately AUD300 per person for lunches and dinners not included, together with coffees, drinks, snacks and incidental purchases throughout the tour. Travellers wishing to enjoy regular alcoholic beverages, premium restaurants, or additional shopping may wish to allow a little extra time.
Tipping:
Unlike many other destinations, tipping is generally not customary in Japan. Exceptional service is considered a normal part of Japanese hospitality, and gratuities are neither expected nor required. As a result, there is no Sisterhood tipping kitty for this tour, and you won't need to budget for routine tipping throughout your holiday.
Accommodation Note:
Japanese hotel rooms, especially in cities like Tokyo, are smaller than those in Western countries.
For destination updates, please click https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/japan
Itinerary
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, there is plenty of free time 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 9:30 am 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. Afterwards, 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 5 - 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 6 - 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 our own unique keepsake to take home.
Overnight - Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Utsunomiya (or similar)
Day 7 - 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 preserved for generations.
Overnight - Kutsurogijuku Chiyotaki (or similar)
Day 8 - 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 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 9 - Sunday 18 April 2027
Aizu-Wakamatsu - Sendai ( B, L, D)
Today, we continue our journey through northern Japan as we depart Aizu-Wakamatsu and head 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.
Overnight - Hotel Grand Bach Sendai (or similar)
Day 10 - 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 that almost no Australians have ever been here.
After lunch, we’re headed to Kakunodate Samurai Village, one of the most spectacular cherry blossom viewing spots in Northern Japan
We’ll continue on to Lake Tazawa for our accommodation this evening, with dinner at the hotel.
Overnight - Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen (Or similar)
Day 11 - 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 12 - 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 13 - 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 14 - 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 15 - 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 16 - 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 17 - 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!