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Colours of Northern Japan - Kanto & Nebuta Festivals
Operated by Bunnik Tours
Tripcode: 1211
Overview
Destination:
Japan,
Duration:16 days
Type:Group tour (max 20)
Travel Period
July 2026 - July 2026
Explore the hidden beauty of Japan’s north, from the lively stalls of Hakodate’s morning market to the peaceful waters of Geibikei Gorge. Stroll through ancient shrines and immerse yourself in the vibrant summer festivals of Morioka, Akita, Hirosaki and Aomori, where colorful floats and lively music bring Japan’s culture and spirit to life.
Highlights:
Standard inclusions
Sightseeing
- Tour the Meiji Jingū Shrine
- Experience Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing
- Visit Team Lab Digital Museum - Please Note: Shoes will need to be removed to walk through water at one of the exhibits, please dress accordingly.
- Yakatabune dinner cruise around Tokyo Bay
- Explore Kegon Waterfall and Lake Chūzenji
- See the Tōshōgū Shrine or the Kurita Museum in Nikko
- Cruise the Matsushima Bay
- Visit the Zuigani Temple
- Learn of the traditional Kokeshi Doll in Matsushima
- See the Aobayama Castle and the Date Masamune Statue
- Enjoy a scenic cruise along Geibikei Gorge
- Visit Chūson-ji Temple
- Spend two nights at an authentic Japanese Ryokan
- Visit Tezukuri-Mura and discover the Japanese art of indigo dyeing
- Tour Morioka Castle Ruins Park
- Take part in the local Wanko Soba tradition
- Enjoy a sake brewing experience at Asabiraki
- Visit Kakunodate Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum
- Visit the Namahage Museum, Shinzen Folklore Museum and Shinzan Shrine
- Enjoy a Shamisen performance and visit Tsugaru Neputa Village
- Wander through the Hirosaki Castle
- Explore the contemporary art on display of Hirosaki Castle
- Travel to Lake Towada
- Stop at Oirase Gorge
- Visit the Sannai Maruyama archaeological site
- Explore the Onuma Park
- Take in the panoramic views from Goryōkaku Tower
- Ascend Mount Hakodate via the Hakodate Ropeway
- Free time to explore the Hakodate Morning Market
- Spend a full day exploring Hakodate
- Stop at Hokkaidō Shrine, dedicated to Shinto deities
- Visit the Sapporo Olympic Museum and view the Okurayama Ski Jump
- Explore Kaitaku, the Historical Village of Hokkaidō
- Taste Japan’s famous beer at Sapporo Beer Museum
Travel
- Return economy-class flights from Australia to Japan. Taxes included
- Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour (please refer to Some things to note)
- All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
- 3 rail journeys in Japan
- Tipping is not part of the Japanese culture, so tips are not expected
Accommodation
- 11 nights in 3-4 star hotels
- 2 nights in Japanese Style Ryokan accommodation in Tsunagi Onsen
Properties include:
- Grand Prince Hotel Shin (New) Takanawa, Tokyo
- Hotel Metropolitan Sendai East, Sendai
- Hotel Shion, Tsunagi Onsen (Morioka) - Japanese Style Ryokan accommodation
- Hotel Metropolitan, Akita
- Oirase Keiryu Hotel, Aomori
- Century Marina Hotel, Hakodate
- Sapporo Grand Hotel, Sapporo
Hotels listed are an indication and are subject to change without notice.
Meals
- 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 8 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
One of the best ways to experience a destination is through its cuisine, and in Japan, food holds deep cultural significance, reflecting centuries of tradition.
With this in mind, it should be noted that dietary requirements – including but not limited to vegetarianism, veganism, gluten-free/coeliac diets and some allergens – are less common and may not always be accommodated.
The restaurants and experiences visited on our Japan tours will not always be able to alter their menus to fully exclude specific allergens or to cater for strict dietary requirements, and it should also be noted that meals for those with specific dietary requirements may be simpler and less varied. Cross contamination cannot be catered for in all of our restaurants and experiences we visit, therefore it is up to the individual traveller to manage their own allergens.
While your Bunnik Tour guide will make every effort to inform you of the main ingredients in the dishes, the ultimate responsibility rests with you to ensure that you avoid any problematic ingredients.
Tour Guides
- English-speaking locally based national guide
Some things to note
Please note:
- Should you not be travelling on the group tour flights shared bus transfers will be used between the hotel and the airport for the departure transfer.
- On days 4 and 11 we travel by bullet train, we will need to pack an overnight bag for the next two nights. Unfortunately, bullet trains have very limited space for luggage so our luggage will be transported separately and await us at our hotel two nights later.
- If you are travelling on or around the holidays of Golden Week (29 April to 5 May) heavier traffic conditions and longer waiting times can be expected.
- Women may need a head scarf to enter some mosques and temples and wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders. Also, a good tip is to pack a spare pair of socks in your daypack, as sometimes shoes need to be removed when entering and the ground can be hot.
Itinerary
Expand all 
Collapse all
Collapse allDay 1 - Depart Australia
Day 1 - Depart Australia
Day 2 - Arrive Tokyo
Welcome to Japan and its buzzing capital, Tokyo! This amazing country is a fascinating mix of ancient traditions and futuristic wonders, where centuries-old rituals meet the latest tech marvels. From the delicate art of perfectly rolled sushi to robots greeting you in lively streets, Japan invites you to explore a culture that honours its past while racing toward tomorrow. Every corner has a story, and the energy is truly contagious.
To help you settle in and meet your fellow travellers, we recommend arriving at the hotel by 5:30 pm for dinner with our friendly tour guide. If your flight gets in a little later and you miss dinner, not to worry — we’ll reconnect bright and early tomorrow morning as we dive into the heart of Tokyo together.
When you check in, look out for a letter with all the details you’ll need, including start times and your guide’s information.
Day 3 - Tokyo
Old and new Tokyo is ours to explore today, and we’ll see just how beautifully the two come together as we visit some of the city’s most iconic sights.
We’ll begin our day in the Shibuya-ku district with a visit to Meiji Jingū Shrine, a peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Surrounded by forest, it’s a calm and reflective spot tucked away from the fast pace of city life.
Next, we head into the heart of the action as we pass through Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. Watching the crowds weave through one another is like seeing Tokyo’s rhythm in motion. We’ll have time here to grab a bite and enjoy a bit of people-watching — a warm bowl of ramen or a fresh sushi set makes the perfect lunch.
Special Experience
Delve into a kaleidoscopic world of interactive art installations at TeamLab Digital Museum.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit TeamLab, where digital art comes alive all around you. This immersive museum reacts to your movement with light, sound and colour. At one point, you’ll walk barefoot through knee-high water so please dress comfortably and bring a bit of curiosity.
As evening falls, we’ll board a traditional Yakatabune, a Japanese-style houseboat dating back to the Heian era. As we cruise along Tokyo Bay, we’ll enjoy a welcome dinner and take in the stunning views of the sparkling skyline.
Day 4 - Tokyo – Nikko – Sendai
Today we’ll swap the city lights for countryside charm as we head north with our guide into the scenic Tochigi region.
Our first stop is Nikkō to visit the remarkable Tōshōgū Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the powerful shogun who unified Japan in the early 1600s. This richly decorated shrine sits in a quiet cedar forest and features intricate carvings and detailed architecture, including the well-known “see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” monkeys. We’ll pause for lunch at a local restaurant to enjoy some regional flavours before continuing our journey.
We will then enjoy a short drive to visit the dramatic Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan’s most celebrated natural sights. The waterfall drops straight from Lake Chūzenji, which we’ll also visit for a lovely photo opportunity. This peaceful lake sits at the foot of Mt. Nantai and was once a popular retreat for diplomats and dignitaries.
From there, we make our way to Utsunomiya Station and hop aboard Japan’s famous bullet train for a smooth, high-speed ride to Sendai. Known as the City of Trees, Sendai welcomes us with its broad, leafy boulevards and relaxed atmosphere.
From the station, it’s just a short walk to our hotel, where we’ll settle in and rest up for tomorrow’s discoveries.
Day 5 - Sendai - Matsushima - Sendai
Sendai was founded by the legendary samurai lord Date Masamune, a visionary warrior known for embracing new ideas and even reaching out to the West. This morning, we’ll pass by Aobayama Castle, once his stronghold. You’ll also see the imposing statue of Date Masamune himself, nicknamed the ‘One-Eyed Dragon’ for his fierce spirit and distinctive eye patch, which he reportedly lost as a child after smallpox, but that never slowed him down, a true symbol of Sendai’s rich history.
Our journey continues to the breathtaking Matsushima Bay, celebrated as one of Japan’s three most scenic views. With over 260 pine-covered islands dotting the sparkling waters, it’s a sight that has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Here, we’ll visit Zuigan-ji Temple, a peaceful Zen Buddhist sanctuary famed for its wooden carvings and serene gardens.
After some free time to explore Matsushima and lunch at your own pace, we’ll board a boat for a scenic cruise from Shiogama to Matsushima Pier, soaking up the peaceful beauty of the bay. Later, we’ll have a delightful Kokeshi doll painting experience. These traditional handcrafted wooden dolls are a local specialty, and you’ll get to create your own colourful keepsake to treasure.
As the day winds down, we return to Sendai with hearts full of culture, history and stunning scenery.
Day 6 - Sendai – Morioka (Tsunagi Onsen)
Bright and early, we’ll set off to Geibikei, a picturesque ravine carved by the Satetsu River and celebrated as one of Japan’s top three greatest gorges. As we float gently along, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, you’ll feel a real sense of peace and connection to Japan’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Special Experience
Admire the impressive waterfalls, rock formations and limestone caves of Geibikei Gorge on a scenic boat trip.
Next, we’ll visit Chūson-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasure founded way back in 850 by the Tendai sect. This temple was built to honour the souls lost in two historic wars and is home to the dazzling Konjikidō Hall. This small golden gem shines with intricate gold leaf, shimmering mother-of-pearl inlays, and delicate Heian period artistry, offering us a beautifully rich glimpse into Japan’s fascinating past.
By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Morioka, a charming town surrounded by mountains and rivers. After settling into our traditional ryokan, complete with tatami mat rooms and soothing onsen baths, we’ll head out to enjoy the Morioka Sansa Odori Festival. With colourful dancers, joyful taiko drumming and a sea of happy faces, it’s a celebration full of warmth and rhythm. Don’t feel shy, clap along, join in and let yourself be swept up in the joy of it all.
Day 7 - Morioka
Textiles have long been a source of pride in Morioka, and we’ll begin the day by exploring this rich crafting tradition with a visit to Tezukurimura. Under the guidance of skilled local artisans, we’ll try our hand at indigo dyeing, a centuries-old process that creates stunning blue fabrics, each one with its own unique pattern.
Special Experience
Take part in the local Wanko Soba tradition at a lunch in Morioka.
Tiny bowls of soba noodles are served one after another until you’re cheerfully full. It’s a fun, fast-paced way to enjoy this delicious local specialty with a local twist.
Afterwards, we’ll wander through Morioka Castle Ruins Park, a peaceful spot where the original castle once stood. Although only the stone foundations remain, the tranquil setting and beautiful views speak to a time when samurai walked these grounds.
Later, we’ll visit Asabiraki Sake Brewery to discover how Japan’s famous sake is crafted, learning the ancient process of cultivating rice and transforming it into this delicious ‘Japanese liquor.’ Of course, no visit would be complete without a tasting session to wet our whistles.
Back at the hotel, we’ll have some free time before we gather for another tasty Japanese-style dinner and a relaxing evening.
Day 8 - Morioka (Tsunagi Onsen) – Oga - Akita
Japan’s rich history and vibrant culture truly come alive in the many museums sprinkled throughout Iwate and Akita Prefectures. These regions are packed with fascinating stories from timeless crafts to samurai legends and lively local festivals. Today we’ll journey from Morioka to Akita, soaking up culture, charm, and a touch of festival magic along the way.
This morning we’ll travel to Kakunodate, a charming little town often called the 'Little Kyoto of Tōhoku' thanks to its beautifully preserved samurai district.
Special Experience
Explore the Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum, discovering the rich history and way of life of the samurai and their wealthy families.
Set on nearly 10,000 square metres, this estate has six galleries to explore, from the elegant Main House to the Armory and even a Samurai Tool Museum.
Next, we'll head to the rugged coastline of Oga, where we meet the legendary Namahage at the Namahage Museum. These fearsome, costumed figures once visited homes during New Year to scare off bad spirits. Just nearby, the Shinzan Folklore Museum offers a warm look into traditional life in this unique region.
By evening, we’ll arrive in Akita City, where time seems to slow and the welcome feels warm. After a relaxed dinner, we’ll step out to join the excitement of the Akita Kanto Festival. This dazzling summer celebration lights up the night as performers expertly balance towering bamboo poles hung with glowing lanterns on their palms, shoulders, and even foreheads. The steady beat of drums fills the air, adding to the festival’s joyful and lively spirit, a joyful way to end our day.
Day 9 - Akita - Hirosaki – Aomori
Our morning begins with a visit to Tsugaru Neputa Village, where we’ll be treated to a wonderful introduction to local culture and craftsmanship. One of the highlights is a live performance of the Tsugaru shamisen, a traditional three-stringed instrument known for its bold and expressive sound.
From here, we’ll travel to Hirosaki, a charming city known for its apple orchards and beautifully preserved architecture. At its heart is Hirosaki Castle, a 17th century fortress surrounded by moats and lush summer gardens. In the warmer months, the castle grounds come alive with deep green foliage, blooming lotus flowers on the water, and shaded paths perfect for a gentle stroll. It’s a peaceful and scenic spot to stretch our legs, take in the summer air, and enjoy a glimpse into Japan’s rich history.
We’ll also visit the Hirosaki Museum of Contemporary Art, where modern works are showcased in a former brick warehouse.
After dinner, we’ll head out to enjoy the Neputa Festival. Glowing fan-shaped floats parade through the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of taiko drums and the sweet melodies of flutes. It’s colourful, full of energy, and a wonderful chance to be part of a cherished summer tradition.
When the festivities wind down, we’ll settle for a relaxing journey towards Aomori, where our beautiful accommodation for the next couple of nights await.
Day 10 - Aomori
Aomori and the surrounding areas are blessed with natural beauty, and today we’ll take our time to enjoy some of its most peaceful and picture-perfect spots. We’ll start with a visit to Lake Towada, a stunning double-caldera lake perched 400 metres above sea level. It’s the largest of its kind on Honshū, and on a clear day, the waters are so pure you can see down more than ten metres.
After breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the views, we’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the lake, sampling delicious regional dishes.
Next, we’ll make our way to Oirase Keiryū, a lush, forested gorge that’s home to one of Japan’s most scenic river walks. The stream meanders through moss-covered rocks, quiet pools, and waterfalls with charming names like ‘Two Dragons,’ ‘Happy Marriage,’ and ‘Bead Curtain.’ With sunlight filtering through the trees, mossy stones underfoot, and the soothing sound of flowing water, it’s the kind of place that instantly puts you at ease.
After our afternoon adventure, we’ll continue to Aomori City, known for fresh seafood and the warm hospitality of northern Japan. There’ll be time to sample the local flavours over dinner before the highlight of the evening begins.
Tonight, we experience the vibrant Aomori Nebuta Festival, one of Japan’s most spectacular celebrations. Towering, illuminated warrior floats light up the streets as energetic dancers shout 'Rassera!' and the air fills with the beat of taiko drums and the sound of flutes. We’ll even have the chance to join in by wearing a haneto costume, truly immersing ourselves in this unforgettable cultural experience.
Day 11 - Aomori – Hakodate
Our day begins at Sannai-Maruyama, an incredible archaeological site where an ancient Jōmon village once thrived. With over 700 structures, this was a bustling community thousands of years ago. As we wander among the ruins, you’ll feel a gentle connection to a time when people lived in harmony with nature.
Next, we’ll catch the bullet train at Shin-Aomori Station for a smooth, speedy ride to Hakodate on beautiful Hokkaidō Island. Nestled between Hakodate Harbour and the Tsugaru Strait, this city was one of the first in Japan to open to the world. You’ll spot hints of international influence in its unique architecture, giving the place a special character.
Once we arrive, we’ll visit Onuma Park, a peaceful quasi-national park known for its stunning Mount Komagatake volcano and lakes dotted with small islands connected by quaint bridges. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and fresh air.
From there, we’ll head to Goryōkaku Tower, where we’ll enjoy panoramic views of the star-shaped Goryōkaku Fort, a fascinating fortress from the late Edo period.
To finish the day, we’ll ride the Hakodate Ropeway up Mount Hakodate and take in magical views of the city lights sparkling below. Afterwards, we’ll relax with dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 12 - Hakodate
Hakodate began as a small fishing port, but when Japan opened to the world in the 1800s, it quickly transformed into one of the country’s first international cities. Today, we’ll explore the very places where that exciting change took shape.
We’ll begin with a guided walk through the lively Hakodate Morning Market. This bustling spot has been around since the 1940s and is packed with over 250 colourful stalls selling everything from fresh scallops and king crab to sweet Hokkaidō melons. You’ll have time to wander at your own pace, maybe chat with the vendors or try a delicious ‘kaisen-don,’ a seafood bowl made just the way you like it.
Next, we’ll head up to the Motomachi district at the foot of Mount Hakodate. This charming neighbourhood was once home to traders from Russia, China and the West who brought their own architectural styles with them. We’ll visit the elegant Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, built in 1910, where East meets West in beautiful design and sweeping bay views.
From there, it’s on to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, now home to lovely shops, cafés and galleries along the waterfront.
We’ll return to the hotel in the afternoon, with your evening free to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 13 - Hakodate – Sapporo
We’ll say goodbye to the sparkling views of Hakodate and the memories we’ve made as we board a local train to Sapporo, the energetic capital of Hokkaidō. As Japan’s fifth largest city, Sapporo has a warm charm that blends lively, neon-lit streets with peaceful parks, tempting shops and a food scene that locals are proud of. It’s also known for its snowy winters and was the first Asian city to host the Winter Olympics in 1972. If you’ve ever seen those incredible ice sculptures in travel magazines, they likely came from Sapporo’s famous Snow Festival, which brings the whole city to life every February.
After we arrive, we’ll visit the Hokkaidō Shrine, tucked inside the lovely Maruyama Park. Built in 1869, it’s a place of quiet reflection and one of the most important Shintō sites on the island. It’s especially loved in spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom and the park turns into a sea of soft pink.
Then, we’ll head to the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium and the Sapporo Olympic Museum. We’ll take a gentle chairlift ride to the top of the jump for sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Later, we’ll return to the hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at your own pace.
Day 14 - Sapporo
We’ll start our day with some lovely free time to explore Sapporo at your own pace, easing gently into the morning and soaking up the city’s relaxed atmosphere.
In the early afternoon, we’ll wander through the Historical Village of Hokkaidō, Kaitaku no Mura. This open-air museum features beautifully preserved buildings from the Meiji and Taishō periods. We’ll get to see old farmhouses, schools and shops, each one telling a story of the pioneers who settled this rugged land in the late 1800s. It’s a delightful way to imagine what daily life was like in early Hokkaidō.
Next, we’ll head to the Sapporo Beer Museum, a real treat for beer lovers. Founded in 1876, Sapporo is Japan’s oldest brewery and has played a major role in shaping the country’s beer culture. We’ll explore its fascinating history and brewing process, then enjoy a tasting of their special ‘Fukkoku Sapporo Bakushu,’ a unique brew made with traditional methods dating back to 1881.
After a day full of discoveries, we’ll return to the hotel to relax and freshen up before our farewell dinner. It’ll be a joyful celebration of the amazing journey we’ve shared together.
Day 15 - Depart Sapporo
Our tour wraps up after breakfast this morning. We hope you’ve felt the spirit of 'omotenashi,' Japan’s warm hospitality, all along the way — and that you’re taking home great memories and some lifelong friends!
Day 16 - Arrive Australia
Day 16 - Arrive Australia
Dates
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Operator
Bunnik Tours
With over 25 years experience and a multitude of industry awards, Bunnik Tours' overarching aim remains simple: to provide a better way for travellers to see the world. We do this by creating a series of unique holiday experiences: - Small group tours of no more than 20 passengers, specifically designed to capture the essence of the places we visit. Tours that provide the perfect balance between organised sightseeing and free time for independent discovery. Holidays that visit the famous attractions but also wander off the usual tourist trail. Complete and stress-free tour packages with accommodation, guides, tipping, and meals included (and much more!). Independent travel packages are a flexible way to visit one or more destinations. They can also be added onto our small group tours for a unique experience! A strong belief in responsible travel and sustainable tourism. We have always been a family of travellers at heart, exploring the world around us with equal parts wonder, good humour and curiosity. As a family business we understand that our family's name and reputation is at stake every time we sell a holiday. We take your trust very seriously and look forward to the day when we can help you explore the world. Dennis Bunnik is the chair of the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) and we are actively involved in helping to improve the overall professionalism of the travel industry. Discover our passion for this incredible planet and its inhabitants, and experience your tour the ‘Bunnik Way’! - Dennis, Marion & Sacha Bunnik
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Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice.
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