Luxury Ryokans & the Japanese Countryside
Escape the busy city life and immerse yourself in Japan’s tranquil countryside, traditional ryokans, natural hot springs (onsen), and timeless cultural experiences.
This 13-day luxury itinerary offers the perfect balance of relaxation, history, and authentic Japanese rural charm.
13-Day Luxury Countryside Japan Itinerary Overview
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Tokyo | Explore Ginza, Meiji Shrine, private transfer to hotel |
| 2 | Tokyo Exploration | Asakusa Temple, Sumida River Cruise, Senso-ji Temple |
| 3 | Travel to Kawaguchiko | Stay at luxury ryokan, view Mount Fuji |
| 4 | Kawaguchiko Highlights | Lake Kawaguchi cruise, Chureito Pagoda, Onsen experience |
| 5 | Travel to Matsumoto | Visit Matsumoto Castle, local art galleries |
| 6 | Matsumoto to Takayama | Explore Takayama Old Town, morning markets |
| 7 | Takayama Cultural Day | Visit Hida Folk Village, local sake brewery tour |
| 8 | Travel to Kanazawa | Kenroku-en Garden, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art |
| 9 | Kanazawa Art & Culture | Samurai district, Higashi Chaya Tea House |
| 10 | Travel to Kinosaki Onsen | Traditional Onsen town with public hot springs |
| 11 | Relaxation in Kinosaki Onsen | Enjoy multiple Onsen baths, kimono walk around town |
| 12 | Return to Osaka | Explore Dotonbori district, fine dining experience |
| 13 | Departure from Osaka | Private transfer to the airport |
How to Travel Comfortably Between Destinations
Shinkansen & Local Private Transfers
Best option: Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for intercity travel.
👉 Buy JR Pass → Japan Rail Pass Official SiteSuica or ICOCA Card for convenient travel in Tokyo and Osaka.
👉 Get Suica Card → Suica Card InformationPrivate transfers recommended for Kawaguchiko, Kinosaki Onsen, and Takayama for comfort and ease.
Top Luxury Ryokans & Hotels
Kawaguchiko
Kozantei Ubuya – Stunning views of Mount Fuji, private Onsen baths.
👉 Book via Agoda → Kozantei Ubuya Ryokan
Takayama
Hoshokaku – Traditional Ryokan with authentic atmosphere and private Onsen.
👉 Book via Booking.com → Hoshokaku Ryokan
Kanazawa
⭐️ Hotel Nikko Kanazawa – Modern luxury hotel near Kanazawa Station.
👉 Book via Hotels.com → Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
Kinosaki Onsen
⭐️ Nishimuraya Honkan – Classic luxury ryokan, multiple Onsen baths.
👉 Book via Agoda → Nishimuraya Honkan
Must-Try Culinary Delights
Kawaguchiko: Fresh river fish & traditional Kaiseki meals
Matsumoto: Soba noodles, local mountain vegetables
Takayama: Hida Beef specialties
Kinosaki Onsen: Seasonal seafood Kaiseki course meals
👉 Explore full Japan Food Guide → Top Food Spots in Japan
Art & Cultural Highlights
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (Kanazawa) – International and Japanese contemporary works
Higashi Chaya Tea District (Kanazawa) – Historic geisha tea houses
Hida Folk Village (Takayama) – Traditional farmhouse architecture
Local craft experiences: pottery classes, kimono wearing
👉 Learn more → Japan Culture Guide
Essential Travel Tips for Countryside Luxury
Cash is important – Some rural ryokans don’t accept cards.
Rent a pocket WiFi or Japanese SIM for internet access.
Download offline maps (Google Maps, MAPS.ME).
Pre-book ryokan stays and Onsen experiences.
Private guides recommended for countryside and cultural tours.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Spring (March – May) | Cherry blossoms, pleasant weather |
| Autumn (September – November) | Stunning fall foliage |
| Winter (December – February) | Snowy mountain landscapes, quiet Onsen towns |
Relax, explore, and experience Japan’s rural charm with MukulKumar.com – Your trusted travel guide