SAKURA & SNOW MONKEY JAPAN ADVENTURE

Group Tour 2025

🌸 Explore Japan in February: From Snowy Peaks to Early Sakura Blooms! 🌸

Experience the magic of Japan as winter transitions to spring.

Begin in the snowy landscapes of Nagano, where you’ll encounter the famous snow monkeys, then travel to Atami to witness the early cherry blossoms in full bloom. Continue your journey through the cultural highlights of Kyoto and Nara, exploring iconic temples and sampling traditional Japanese cuisine.

🇯🇵 7 Cities, Endless Discoveries

☀️ 10 Days, 9 Nights

📅 Feb 22nd – Mar 3rd, 2025

 👯 Intimate Group of 8-15 Travellers

🤓 Guided by Local Experts with Seamless Transport

🤩 Countless New Experiences!


10-day Japan Itinerary Day 1_ Tokyo (2)
7-day Japan Itinerary Niikurayama Sengen Park

Ready for a Winter-Spring Adventure in Japan? 🌸

 

If you’re up for an adventure that mixes wintery fun with a sneak peek of spring, this February 2025 Japan group trip is just what you need! We’ll start in Nagano, where you can hang out with snow monkeys and unwind in hot springs. Then, we’ll head to Atami to catch the early cherry blossoms in full bloom. Along the way, we’ll explore vibrant cities, visit ancient temples, and do some serious shopping in famous districts.

This trip is packed with countless new experiences, blending Japan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and lively city vibes. It’s the perfect way to dive into everything Japan has to offer.

🎒 So, why wait? Come join us this February and let Japan’s winter magic and early sakura work their charm on you!

Sakura and Snow Monkey Group Trip Map (with Atami)

Highlights

🏔️ Nagano’s Winter Magic: Soak in onsen hot springs and watch snow monkeys in their natural snowy habitat.

🌸 Atami’s Early Sakura: Enjoy the breathtaking early cherry blossoms in Atami, a true preview of spring.

🗻 Kawaguchiko’s Scenic Beauty: Capture stunning views of Mount Fuji and explore the serene lakeside surroundings.

🍣 Tokyo’s Culinary Delights: Dive into fresh seafood at Tsukiji Market and savour the flavours of Tokyo.

🏯 Tokyo’s Historic Charm: Wander through Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple and explore the vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street.

🌆 Shibuya’s Energy: Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing and the lively atmosphere of Tokyo’s trendiest district.

🎮 Akihabara’s Geek Paradise: Get lost in anime, manga, and gaming culture in Tokyo’s otaku hub.

⛩️ Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine: Walk through thousands of vermilion torii gates at this iconic spiritual site.

🎋 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Stroll through towering bamboo groves in Kyoto’s peaceful Arashiyama district.

🏮 Gion’s Traditional Elegance: Discover Kyoto’s historic geisha district with its traditional tea houses.

 

🦌 Nara’s Sacred Deer: Meet the friendly deer at Nara Park and visit the grand Todai-ji Temple.

🌅 Osaka’s Dotonbori: Explore the lively Dotonbori district, known for its neon lights, street food, and entertainment.

🏯 Osaka Castle: Step back in time with a visit to Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city’s rich history.

🌸 Imperial Palace Gardens: Take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding Tokyo’s Imperial Palace.

🎆 Shinjuku Nights: Experience the vibrant nightlife in Shinjuku, Tokyo’s bustling entertainment district.

 

 

Joined by Emma: Your Japan Adventure Just Got Even Better! 🌸

Guess who’s joining a part of our epic Sakura and Snow Monkey Japan Adventure 2025?

Emma Bassett of Bassett’s Bouken is hopping on this tour, and trust us, you’ll want to hang with her.

She’s been living in Japan for over 8 years, and she’s got an eye for detail, a knack for storytelling, and the kind of energy that makes every moment more fun.

From hidden gems to cultural tips that’ll have you feeling like a local, Emma brings the vibes—and the expertise.

Travelling with her? Game-changer.

Where will this February adventure take you?

🌆 Tokyo – The Perfect Blend of Tradition and Modernity: Get ready to experience Tokyo’s mix of old and new! From ancient temples and peaceful gardens to neon-lit streets, bustling markets, and a mouth-watering food scene, this city has it all.

⛩️ Kyoto – A Living Postcard: Step into a world of timeless beauty in Kyoto. Explore ancient shrines, majestic temples, and the enchanting geisha culture that brings Japan’s past to life.

🗻 Kawaguchiko – Tranquil Nature and Iconic Views: Soak in the stunning views of Mount Fuji at Kawaguchiko. Whether it’s serene lakes or lush nature, this spot is all about tranquillity and iconic landscapes.

🦌 Nara – Where History and Nature Meet: Travel back in time in Nara, where deer roam free and ancient temples like Todai-ji showcase the grandeur of Japan’s history.

🌟 Osaka – The City That Never Sleeps: Get ready for a city that’s always buzzing! From epic street food to towering skyscrapers and landmarks like Osaka Castle, this place is a blend of fun and history.

🏔️ Nagano – Winter Wonderland: Known for its snowy beauty, Nagano is home to the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park. Watch snow monkeys relax in hot springs amid a snowy winter wonderland.

🌸 Atami – Early Sakura Delight: Celebrate the early blooming cherry blossoms in Atami! These vibrant pink sakura put on a stunning show, making it the perfect sneak peek of spring.

Where will you rest and recharge in style?

We get it. Good sleep is the secret sauce to enjoying the day fully, especially when you’re soaking up the authenticity of Japanese hospitality.

So, we’ve cherry-picked an awesome mix of 3/4-star hotels and at least one dreamy Ryokan stay for you. Why? Because we’re all about marrying sleek comfort with genuine cultural vibes.

We offer two types of room options. Fancy your own space? Snag a single room. Prefer a pal next to you? Grab a twin. Or if saving dough sounds sweet, you can pay a lower fee by sharing a room with a fellow traveller. Whatever your style, we’ve got the perfect spot for you to kick back and relax after a day full of Japanese adventures!

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 0: Welcome to Japan!

Welcome to Japan! As you arrive in this incredible country, get ready to kick off an unforgettable adventure. You’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Tokyo, where you can settle in and start soaking up the city vibes.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner—your first taste of Japan’s amazing cuisine—where you can meet your fellow travellers and start making memories.

What’s included: Airport Transfer, Welcome Pack, Welcome Dinner
Stay: Tokyo hotel

Day 1: Deep Dive into Tokyo

From the moment you step foot in Tokyo, you’ll be swept up in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavours. We’ll start our day at Tsukiji Market, where you can sample fresh seafood, savour local treats, and browse through a variety of goods.

Next, we’ll hop on the Asakusa line and head to the historic neighbourhood of Asakusa. Together, we’ll explore the iconic Senso-ji Temple and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage.

As the day continues, we’ll make our way to Ueno, known for its cultural offerings and scenic Ueno Park. We’ll dive into the artistic atmosphere, explore museums, and discover what makes this district so special.

Finally, we’ll end our day in Akihabara, Tokyo’s geek paradise. From gaming and anime to unique shrines like Kanda Myojin, Akihabara is where subcultures come alive.

What’s included: Expert local guide, transportation, lunch at a local Japanese restaurant
Stay: Tokyo hotel

Day 2: Old Meets New in Western Tokyo

Today, we’ll start our journey by visiting the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine, a large Shinto shrine nestled in a peaceful forest park. This shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Next, we’ll head over to Harajuku, the epicentre of youth culture, street art, and fashion. We’ll take a stroll down Takeshita Street, a vibrant pedestrian zone filled with trendy boutiques, quirky cafés, and unique restaurants.

Our adventure continues in Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts. We’ll explore Shibuya Crossing, the bustling centre of activity, and enjoy the sights of Shibuya Sky, Hachiko statue, and Miyashita Park. It’s a vibrant area where old meets new, and tradition blends seamlessly with modernity.

We’ll end our day in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s busiest and most lively districts. Here, we’ll explore the famous department stores, and perhaps enjoy a drink in one of the small bars that make this area so popular.

What’s included: Expert local guide, transportation, lunch at a ramen restaurant
Stay: Tokyo hotel

Day 3: A Day with Nagano’s Snow Monkeys

Today, we’re off on an exciting day trip to Nagano’s Snow Monkey Park, where nature and culture intertwine beautifully. We’ll start our adventure at Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to the famous snow monkeys, or Japanese macaques, who enjoy soaking in the natural hot springs against a backdrop of snow-covered landscapes.

After our enchanting encounter with the snow monkeys, we’ll venture to the nearby town of Shibu Onsen. This charming town offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich hot spring tradition, with its historic public baths and traditional ryokans. We’ll explore the quaint streets and perhaps even soak in the therapeutic waters.

To round off the day, we’ll visit the iconic Zenko-ji Temple in Nagano city. As one of Japan’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temples, Zenko-ji offers a spiritual and architectural experience that’s truly unforgettable.

What’s included: Expert local guide, bullet train transportation, private van, lunch at a local Japanese soba restaurant
Stay: Tokyo hotel

Day 4: Embrace Nature in Atami and Kawaguchiko

Prepare for a scenic escape as we embark on a journey to Atami and Kawaguchiko. We’ll start our morning with a visit to Kawazu during cherry blossom season, where the Kawazu-zakura trees burst into vibrant pink hues along the riverbanks. It’s a peaceful moment to savour the beauty of these early blooms.

Next, we’ll head to Kawaguchiko, the gateway to the majestic Mount Fuji. We’ll explore the area around Kawaguchiko Station, taking in the stunning views from Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its picturesque view of Chureito Pagoda.

We’ll also visit Oshino Hakkai, a collection of eight pristine ponds fed by the waters of Mount Fuji, known for their crystal-clear water. After a day of natural beauty, we’ll take the shinkansen to Kyoto, where we’ll check into our hotel.

What’s included: Expert local guide, private van, bullet train transportation, lunch at a local hotpot restaurant
Stay: Kyoto hotel

Day 5: Dive into Kyoto’s Rich Heritage

Today, we’ll dive into Kyoto’s rich history, starting with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its vibrant red torii gates. Afterward, we’ll explore Kiyomizu-dera, a picturesque temple offering stunning views of Kyoto.

As we stroll through the neighbouring areas of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, we’ll soak in the traditional charm of Kyoto’s historic streets. We’ll also visit Maruyama Park, known for its cherry blossoms, and end the day in the Gion district, where we’ll enjoy a Geisha dinner.

What’s included: Expert local guide, lunch at a Kyoto-speciality lunch spot, Geisha dinner
Stay: Kyoto hotel

Day 6: Unveil Kyoto’s Natural Wonders

Wake up refreshed and ready to explore Kyoto’s treasures. We’ll begin our day with a visit to Arashiyama, known for its enchanting Bamboo Forest. We’ll wander through the serene bamboo grove, soaking in the tranquillity of this natural wonder. Next, we’ll visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where we’ll admire the beautiful gardens and cross the iconic Togetsu-kyo Bridge, offering picturesque views of the surrounding scenery.

After a peaceful morning, we’ll head to the Golden Pavilion, officially known as Kinkaku-ji. The temple’s stunning golden facade reflects beautifully in the tranquil pond, creating a postcard-perfect scene. We’ll take our time to absorb the serenity of the temple and explore the meticulously manicured grounds.

For lunch, we’ll savour the flavours of traditional Japanese cuisine at Sabo Kinkaku-an, a restaurant located nearby, known for its delightful offerings. After our meal, we’ll make our way to Nijo Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its historical significance and architectural beauty. We’ll explore the castle’s intricate design, admire the stunning gardens, and delve into the rich history of this iconic landmark.

To make the experience even more memorable, you’ll have the option to participate in a sushi-making class or join a tea ceremony session, deepening your understanding of Japanese culture through these hands-on activities.

What’s included: Expert local guide, private van, entrances, lunch at a local lunch spot, Tea Ceremony
Stay: Kyoto hotel

Day 7: Experience Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka's Highlights

We’ll kick off our day at Kyoto’s Nishiki Market, often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” This lively market is a bustling hub of fresh produce, local delicacies, and culinary delights. We’ll immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere, exploring the stalls and sampling delicious treats that represent the best of Kyoto’s food scene.

Afterward, we’ll travel to Nara, a city steeped in history and known for its friendly deer. Our first stop will be Nara Park, where you can interact with these gentle creatures that freely roam the park. We’ll then visit Todai-ji Temple, home to Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statue. The immense size and beauty of the statue are awe-inspiring, and we’ll take time to explore the temple complex and its rich historical significance.

Next, we’ll make our way to Kofuku-ji, another renowned Buddhist temple in Nara, famous for its elegant pagoda and extensive museum. We’ll explore the temple grounds, taking in the peaceful ambiance and learning about Nara’s role in Japan’s cultural heritage.

What’s included: Expert local guide, entrances, train transportation
Stay: Kyoto hotel

Day 8: Ending with a Bang in Osaka

Next, we’ll venture to Osaka, a city that never fails to impress with its iconic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere. We’ll start our Osaka adventure at Osaka Castle, where we’ll marvel at the castle tower and explore the surrounding gardens. The castle’s secondary citadels, gates, turrets, and moats provide a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.

As the day progresses, we’ll head to Namba, one of Osaka’s main city cores. Here, we’ll explore Shinsaibashi, a bustling covered shopping street that connects to Amerika-mura, a district with an American motif and a hub of Osaka’s youth culture. We’ll delight in the vibrant retail scene, discovering trendy shops and unique boutiques that line the streets.

To conclude the day on a relaxing note, we’ll unwind at Solaniwa Onsen, a rejuvenating spa and hot spring facility. We’ll indulge in a soothing soak, enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs, and cap off the day with a delicious meal at the on-site Japanese restaurant, savouring the flavours of traditional Japanese cuisine.

What’s included: Expert local guide, entrances, train transportation, lunch at an Osaka Teppanyaki lunch spot

Day 9: See you again!

Waking up in the beautiful city of Osaka, it’s time to wrap up this adventure! 

If you’re hoping to extend your trip, we are here to help you!

Local Tokyo Food & Drinks- Walking & Bar Tour

Who is this tour for?

This tour is ideal for travellers who are excited to experience Japan’s early cherry blossom season, along with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life. It’s perfect for individuals, friends, or couples who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of Japan’s sakura, explore historic temples, and enjoy a mix of bustling cities and serene natural landscapes.

Whether you’re a cherry blossom enthusiast, a history lover, or simply curious about Japan, this tour offers a unique blend of early spring beauty and cultural exploration. It’s great for both first-time visitors and those who’ve fallen in love with Japan and want to discover it in a new light.

Who is this tour not for?

This tour might not be the best fit for travellers who prefer remote nature escapes without the mix of city exploration.

Additionally, if you have mobility limitations, you may find this tour challenging, as it involves walking through various outdoor locations, including parks and gardens, and using public transportation.

What’s included?

🌸 Accommodation at clean, comfortable 3/4-star hotels

🌸 A welcome dinner to kick off the trip with the whole group

🌸 Daily lunch to keep you fuelled for your adventures

🌸 A special Geisha dinner for an unforgettable cultural experience

🌸 Transportation via Shinkansen, trains, subways, and private coaches on certain days

🌸 Airport pick-up to start your journey smoothly

🌸 Fully guided tours with professional, English-speaking local experts

🌸 Entrance fees for all listed activities, experiences, and sights in the itinerary

🌸 Various traditional Japanese cultural activities available

🌸 Flexibility to add and modify experiences based on group preferences, ensuring your ideal trip in Japan!

Please check the following link for Flip Japan Guide Group Trip Terms and Conditions. 

What’s not included?

✈️ Flights to and from Japan

🍽️ Other meals not mentioned in the itinerary

🛍️ Personal expenses and shopping

🛡️ Travel insurance (which is compulsory for this trip)

5% off Early-Bird Pricing Now!

Twin Room: 5,220USD 4,959USD

Single Room available upon request.

To get started, just pay 500 USD today to lock in your spot and the discounted price!

Some of our guests

Who is Flip Japan Guide?

 

– Featured on & Guided for 4xEmmy Award Winning TV show, Global Passport!
– Travel agency, events & marketing company founded in 2016
– Partnered with 300+ Local Businesses
– Welcomed 3500+ Guests from 25+ countries

In a city like Tokyo that gathers so many people from all walks of life, it’s incredibly fun meeting new people, and it’s even more fun to explore Tokyo together with them.

Working closely in the industry of tourism and events, my colleagues and I have explored so many awesome popular as well as local places all over the city and I thought, why keep these amazing places to ourselves?

Come and join us on an amazing time around the city and uncover a different side of Tokyo!

What do our guests say