Zen Oriental Journeys | Japan: Momijigari - Autumn Journey to Japan

Japanese Geisha look at Rock Garden at Kennin-ji Temple, Japan

Japan: Momijigari - Autumn Journey to Japan

1 November to 24 November 2025

Japan is a nation uniquely in touch with its past. At ancient shrines and in the heart of historic cities, its rich cultural heritage lives on as something not just to be admired from afar, but actively appreciated. From the transformative travel experience of participating in yamabushi - the mountain ascetic tradition - to hands-on practice at a seat of esoteric Buddhism, take in the spirit of Japan and its people with all five senses. You will come away with a profound understanding of the culture and rediscover yourself in the process. Japan may be a small group of islands, but it is home to striking scenery and diverse landscapes. Volcanoes rise from the sea, crater lakes reflect the emerald green of ancient forests, rugged mountains stretch across two-thirds of the country, and stunning Zen gardens paint the country as bold and beautiful as a work of art.

Planned to arrive during the time of Momijigari, or ‘Autumn foliage hunting’, we present some of Japan largely unseen by the West. Our itinerary focuses on art and gardens, both reflecting a uniquely delicate aesthetic and way of life. In Japan, crafts such as pottery, textiles and metalwork have been accorded as much respect as the ‘high’ art forms of painting and sculpture, and we celebrate many fine works across the genres, in temples, shrines and museums; from the superb sacred temple studded mountains of Wakayama, to culture-rich Kyoto, areas well off the beaten track, to bustling Tokyo with its cutting edge contemporary vibe.

Testimonial from our Journey to Japan in Nov 2023

"Thanks again for organising such a superb tour of Japan. It will be fondly remembered for a long time. I've got to admit that it was nothing like what I expected and far exceeded my expectations. Such a great balance of heritage sites, markets, food, people, locations, free time and experiences. I can't think of too much to change and am very grateful to you for encouraging me to go and also for your support and assistance throughout the trip."

ON THIS JOURNEY YOU WILL:

• Stroll through Tokyo’s Asakusa district and the neon shopping streets of Ginza
• See Mt Fuji and ascend by the Panoramic Ropeway
• Visit Itchiku Kubota’s Art Museum and be awestruck by his 'Tsujigahana' kimonos
• Spend a memorable night in a traditional Japanese Inn in one of the best-preserved Edo-era towns as you stroll along the ancient Nakesendo Highway
• Stay 7 nights in Japan’s cultural heartland of Kyoto and discover old Japan
• See Japanese classical art forms at a performance in Old Kyoto’s Gion Corner Theatre
• Visit “Japan’s three top gardens” and many more
• Participate in an exquisite ‘Tea Ceremony’
• Be spell bound by the colourful beauty of temple gardens in full autumnal beauty
• Surround yourself in tranquil scenery at an overnight Buddhist temple stay in Koya-san, home to the most esoteric sect of Japanese Buddhism
• Treat your tastebuds and taste tempura, savour sushi, experience a kaiseki ryori (multi-course) dinner and sip sake, wines and spirits. (39 meals included)
• Explore Bizen and Shigaraki, two of Japan’s ‘top 6 ancient kilns’ centres.
• Be impressed by the efficiency and ultra-modernity as you zip from city to town on the Shinkansen Bullet Trains
• See outstanding museum buildings by Tadao Ando, I.M. Pei and other leading architects, housing contemporary and traditional arts
• Explore the ‘Art Island’ of Naoshima in the Seto Inland Sea
• Discover the buzzing night life of Osaka on an evening walking tour

For a detailed itinerary please contact Zen Oriental Journeys by emailing Lee Grafton or ring 0401 123 347

DURATION:

Departure date: 1 November 2025
Duration: 23 days
Hotels: TBA

PRICING:

Price per person twin share (Land only): AUD 17,839.00
Single Supplement: AUD 1,880.00

Airfare: From Australia TBA when available for booking

FINAL PAYMENT & CLOSE OF BOOKING: 1 SEP 2025

Prices may fluctuate due to changes in charges, taxes and currency. Prices and flights are correct at time of preparing this program and are subject to availability at time of booking. Special conditions and seasonal surcharges to airfares and package prices may apply depending on date of travel. Flight times are subject to change by the airline. Please visit: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au or ring 1300 139 281 for information on current Government travel advice.

Bookings will be processed in order of receipt. Any bookings after this date will be accepted subject to visa processing, flight availability, land content and room availability. Such booking must be paid in full after confirmation of your acceptance in the tour. Special conditions and additional charges to airfares and package prices may apply depending on date of booking.