Audley Travel, a company that focuses on customized trips for discerning travelers seeking authentic experiences, has just launched two new unique tours to under-touristed yet fascinating of Japan: Tohoku and Kyoto-by-the-Sea.
Tohoku, situated in the remote northern mainland, not only boasts rugged landscapes; it also features cherry blossoms that bloom until April, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy these iconic scenes beyond the Golden Route season. The second destination, Kyoto-by-the-Sea in Kyoto Prefecture, is a hub for some of the world’s top artisans. It’s set between the mountains and the sea, and the village of Ine is made up of over 200 funaya (boat houses) that frame the bay.
“For many, Japan is a bucket-list destination, and as well as helping clients tick-off those big icons, we specialize in inspiring them to find authentic experiences, including in the lesser-known gems across the country,” says David Peat, Senior Product Executive at Audley Travel said, “
“For example, visitors to Japan often believe that the chance to see the iconic cherry blossom is limited but by heading north to Tohoku, where it blooms later in the year, this period is expanded and therefore so are the opportunities to explore more. Whereas a visit to Kyoto-by-the-Sea in the south presents an opportunity to visit a truly unique setting which contributes directly back to the community,” says Peat.
Here’s a look at these two new tours that showcase a rarely seen yet fascinating side of Japan.
Tohoku
Tohoku, a northern region of Japan with captivating landscapes and mountainous terrain, is not to be missed. Explore Sendai, the region’s largest city, home to the Osaki Hachimangu Shinto shrine. Nearby, the picturesque Matsushima, with its island-dotted bay, is considered one of the country’s most scenic places. Heading north, Kakunodate awaits, offering a glimpse into the country’s scenic backbone and a town steeped in samurai history. Visitors can indulge in a unique experience by spending the night in luxuriously converted former samurai residences, many of which are preserved as homes or museums. Hirosaki boasts Hirosaki Castle park, which is among the most beautiful cherry blossom spots in the country. It’s easy to get to each of these areas by train or air travel.
For a unique culinary experience, head to the city of Yuzawa in Akita. Here you’ll find an amazing fermented food culture that’s the result of a need to preserve food during harsh and showy winters. The traditional setting of The Yamamo Miso and Soy Sauce Brewery hosts a unique full pairing menu, with all items crafted using their patented fermentation techniques. Visitors can learn through tasting sensory experiences and workshops about the brewing techniques for miso and soy sauce.
A 14-day custom trip to Japan, including some time in Tohoku and the ‘fermented foodie day’, staying in a converted traditional storehouse property in Kakunodate, as well as Kyoto, Kanazawa and Tokyo costs from $12,100 per person (based on two sharing) and includes transfers, accommodation and excursions.
Kyoto-by-the-Sea
Kyoto-by-the-Sea offers a unique contrast to the modern city of Kyoto. Visitors can stay in a traditional ryokan and visit the village of Ine, which is made up of 230 funaya boathouses built along the bay. The experience has been carefully designed to ensure travelers engage with the community, thereby contributing to the local economy. You’ll also visit Motoise Kono Shrine (believed by locals to be where the first offering of sake to the gods occurred). Enjoy a sea taxi around Ine and learn about the village’s interesting history and its groundbreaking sustainable fishing practices, as well as get the chance to make traditional sashimi.
A 12-day custom trip to Japan, including two nights in Kyoto-by-the-Sea, as well as time in Kyoto, Kanazawa and Tokyo costs from $8300 per person (based on two sharing) and includes transfers, accommodation and excursions.