Young women wearing traditional Japanese Kimono at Daigo-ji Temple with maple trees in autumn in Kyoto, Ginkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto, Traditional Japanese house with Japanese Garden

Japan: Autumn Journey - Paths less travelled

1 November to 21 November 2027

Every year leading travel professionals (such as Conde Naste Traveller) survey the destinations trending to shine. For 2026, three Asian gems have made the list: Kyushu in Japan, Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan. Zen Oriental Journeys are offering tours to each of these for 2027. These destinations deliver their own mix of culture, cuisine, landscapes and peoples with an irresistible sense of discovery that modern travellers crave.

It’s time Japan’s southernmost main island, Kyushu, stepped in to the spotlight. Think hot springs, steaming volcanoes, delicious regional foods and a treasure trove of ancient history, all rolled into one irresistible destination. Explore steamy onsen towns in Beppu, myth-soaked forests and dramatic scenery, and the buzzing city of Fukuoka. We provide the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, whether you’re soaking in an outdoor bath overlooking the ocean, hiking through volcanic landscapes, or exploring samurai-era temples and shrines. With its welcoming atmosphere, scenic beauty, and deep-rooted traditions, this is a must-visit for travellers looking to experience the best of what Kyushu offers as well as discover gems of Japan’s main island, Honshu.

It’s Japan with a gentler pace, greener landscapes and plenty of surprises for those who think they’ve already 'done Japan'.

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

ON THIS JOURNEY YOU WILL:

• Sail the Inland Sea to the Hells of Beppu
• Immerse yourself in Oita Prefecture’s spectacular Onsens
• Discover Kyushu’s hidden gems
• Stay in a 400 year old Feudal Lord’s residence
• Explore Onta, Arita and Imari, three of Japan’s famed pottery villages
• 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 4 nights in Japan’s cultural heartland in Kyoto and discover old Japan
• Visit several of ‘Japan’s top gardens’
• Be spell bound by the exquisite 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
• Be impressed by the efficiency and ultra-modernity as you zip from city to town on the Shinkansen Bullet Trains
• See outstanding museums such as the Kyushu National Museum, Adachi, and Ohara

Daigo-ji temple with colorful maple trees in autumn, Kyoto, Japan

Japanese Geishas Look at a Small Rock Garden at Kennin-ji Temple

Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) with its deep red waters, and Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), Jigoku Meguri, Beppu, Japan

Kokura Castle, Kokura, Japan

Luxury Hotel in Fukuoka, Japan

Kurashiki Village, Japan

Beautiful Koraku-en Garden, Okayama, Japan

Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s most important and beautiful gardens, Kanazawa, Japan

Traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses in Shirakawago, UNESCO world heritage, Japan

Nakasendo Highway, Magome, Japan

Kiyomizudera, (literally Pure Water Temple) in Kyoto, Japan

1001 carved wooden images of Kannon - the Buddhist ‘Goddess of Mercy’, the only such Sentai Kannon-do, Kyoto, Japan

Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto

Yasaka Pagoda in Kyoto

Woman dressed in traditional japanese costume walking under tori gates at the Fushimi-Inari shrine, Kyoto

Sanboin Garden, Kyoto

A cultural performance in Kyoto, Japan

DURATION:

Departure date: 1 November 2027
Duration: 22 days (land only)

PRICING:

Indicative price per person twin share (Land only): AUD 12,849.00

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.

 
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