Japan Private Tour (JPN030) Kyoto and Akita Highlights: Hot Springs & Cultural Experiences 5D4N

Upon your arrival at Aomori Airport in Aomori Prefecture, at the northernmost tip of Honshu, we will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to Aomori city center to visit Furukawa Fish Market. Renowned as one of the freshest fish markets in Japan, this public market offers a truly unique culinary experience—especially the popular “Aomori Nokke-don,” a customized sashimi rice bowl where you can select your own seasonal local toppings. It is a must-try dining experience.

For lunch, savor the famous Nokke-don at the Aomori fish market.

Afterward, visit the Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse, which showcases the art of the Aomori Nebuta Festival—a giant lantern parade celebrated across Japan. The museum displays actual lantern floats used in past festivals, allowing you to admire the exquisite craftsmanship up close.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Hot spring bath

Breakfast at the hotel restaurant.

Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Towada, the largest lake on Honshu, located in Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Formed by a dual caldera volcanic eruption over 200,000 years ago, this deep lake reaches a maximum depth of 327 meters, making it the third-deepest lake in Japan and a premier destination in the Tohoku region.

Next, take a stroll along Oirase Stream as it winds through Oirase Gorge amidst breathtaking nature. Gorgeous with fresh green foliage in spring and summer, the stream is ablaze with colorful autumn leaves in fall, making it one of the most celebrated viewpoints in the region.

Enjoy lunch at a Japanese restaurant.

In the afternoon, travel to see Godzilla Rock, a natural coastal rock formation resembling Japan's legendary monster Godzilla. Sculpted by ocean wave erosion at Cape Shiose in Oga City, the rock stands out with its distinct silhouette of Godzilla with an open mouth. Visiting around sunset makes the scene even more dramatic and powerful.

Afterward, enjoy a Namahage performance, a cherished local tradition centered on the mythical Namahage ogres. Combining folklore, belief, and Japanese culture, this ritual is inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Experience an exciting light and sound performance in Oga City, Akita Prefecture.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel restaurant.

Visit the Namahage Museum, a venue showcasing the history and climate of this area, with Namahage exhibits as the main highlight. Here, you can see various styles of authentic Namahage masks actually used across several villages, including an exhibition displaying up to 150 masks. There is also a theater hall screening the film "A Night of Namahage," introducing the traditional New Year's Eve celebration culture of this region.

Next, visit Kakunodate Samurai Village, situated along Bukeyashiki Street, which was once the residential quarter of samurai warriors. Many historic samurai houses over 100 years old remain well preserved. Although samurai no longer live here today, some families still carry on samurai lineage. 6 samurai houses are open to visitors to experience the lifestyle of the past and view ancient artifacts such as armor and swords. Some homes also feature Japanese gardens and operate as small cafes in a traditional setting.

At noon, stop for lunch at a Japanese restaurant.

In the afternoon, enjoy the Akita Fireworks Festival, the grandest fireworks festival in the Tohoku region and a national competition. Watch magnificent fireworks displays synchronized with music and lights in the sky, creating an exciting and welcoming atmosphere.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Soak in hot springs (Hot Spring)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel restaurant.

Afterward, depart for Lake Tazawa, where you can take photos with the iconic Tatsuko Statue, the symbol of the lake. Visit Gozanoishi Shrine, dedicated to the guardian deity of the lake, believed to bestow eternal youth and beauty. Another highlight not to be missed is the lakeside torii gate situated opposite the shrine, a very popular photo spot.

Next, experience riding the Yurikogen Railway, a scenic 23-kilometer local train running from Ugo-Honjo Station to Yashima Station with seasonal interior decorations. Along the way, enjoy picturesque views of rice fields, mountains, rivers, and charming local houses full of character. Special onboard activities are also held during certain festival seasons.

Lunch: Enjoy a bento box lunch on the train.

In the afternoon, explore Oyasukyo Gorge, one of the most popular attractions in Yuzawa City and a famous natural geothermal hot spring area. Here you will find numerous ryokan with onsen baths to unwind, as well as outdoor hot springs and public footbaths. Steam rises from natural springs along the walking trail, and be sure to try the unique rose-shaped Babahera Ice cream, available only here.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a Japanese restaurant.

DiverCity Tokyo Plaza (Gundam) - Haneda Airport

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel restaurant.

Afterward, we will transfer you to Akita Airport for your flight to Tokyo Haneda Airport.

Checked luggage will be checked through from your departure point. If you have done extra shopping, you can check an additional bag on the return flight, with an allowance of up to 2 pieces per person, not exceeding 23 kg each.

Upon arriving at Tokyo Haneda Airport, visit Gotokuji Temple, well known as the cat temple on the outskirts of Tokyo. This temple is considered the birthplace of Japan's beckoning cat, known in Japan as "Maneki-neko." The temple grounds are filled with countless beckoning cat figurines lined up everywhere.

Continue with shopping in the Shibuya district, a vibrant center of youth fashion and lifestyle in Japan with more than 100 shops, including the iconic Shibuya 109 building.

Next, head to DiverCity Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba, where you can enjoy shopping at a wide variety of stores such as Coach, H&M, Uniqlo, Zara, and Daiso. In addition, there are large shopping malls nearby like AQUA CITY, VENUS FORT, and DECKS for you to explore.

Sightseeing and shopping at your leisure, with lunch and dinner on your own.

At the appropriate time, transfer to Haneda Airport to prepare for your return flight to Bangkok.