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8-Day Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka Tour

Star your trip in Tokyo, a bustling metropolis pulsating with modern energy, and explore the serene landscapes of Hakone. Dive into Kyoto's rich heritage, visit Hiroshima to pay respects and witness resilience, and experience the vibrant city life in Osaka. This thoughtfully curated itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, tradition, and urban vibrancy. Ideal for travelers seeking a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Japan, from the modernity of Tokyo to the historic significance of Hiroshima and the dynamic spirit of Osaka. Book now for an enriching and captivating adventure through Japan.

We can customize this trip by adding anything you're interested in and scheduling days to fit your pace. We would happily organize a unique theme or activities for birthdays, young children, anniversaries, etc.

• Best For: Slow Pacers and Couples
• Departure date: Up to you
• Sample Price: On request

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Tour Highlights

Here are the fantastic attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:

Learn about Japanese emperors by visiting the Imperial Palace and the Meiji Shrine.

Enjoy steaming matcha on a small island in the lake at hamarikyu garden ., experience the breathtaking scenery of hakone from multiple perspectives., absorb the profound message of peace in hiroshima ., suggested itinerary for inspiration.

The itinerary serves as a mere example of a personalized tour, designed exclusively for you. Your preferences will shape the authentic journey. We are fully prepared to craft an tailor-made tour that fulfills your desires.

Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Tokyo. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.

Meiji Shrine: Commence your day at the serene Meiji Shrine, an homage to Emperor Meiji, an integral figure in Japan's history. Experience the tranquility of this sacred site, often bustling with traditional wedding ceremonies, a peek into Japanese cultural heritage.

Omotesando: Stroll down Omotesando, a broad, tree-lined avenue hosting flagship stores of top global fashion brands. Experience the stylish energy of this shopping street, known for its blend of modern and traditional architecture.

Asakusa & Sensoji Temple: Journey to Asakusa, a vibrant district capturing the essence of old Tokyo. Explore Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and meander through Nakamise, a historic street offering an array of local delights and traditional souvenirs.

Hamarikyu Garden: End your day at Hamarikyu Garden, an Edo Period Japanese garden harmoniously nestled amidst Tokyo's modern skyline. Experience the juxtaposition of traditional aesthetics within a futuristic cityscape. Take a serene moment to enjoy a cup of steaming matcha and Japanese sweets in a tranquil teahouse located on a small island within the garden's lake.

Hakone and Mount Fuji National Park Adventure: Escape the urban bustle of Tokyo and embark on a scenic 90-minute journey to Hakone, the gateway to the majestic Mt. Fuji and its surrounding national park. Your local guide will join you on the iconic "Romance Car" express train departing from Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku station.

Zigzag through the Mountains on the Hakone Tozan Train: Hop aboard the Hakone Tozan switchback train, a thrilling ride that zigzags through the mountains, offering spectacular vistas of the surrounding valleys. The meandering journey provides unforgettable panoramic views of Hakone's natural landscapes.

Exploring the National Park's Marvels: Discover the diverse forms of transport available to delve into the wonders of the national park. Aboard the world's second-longest cable car, ascend Mt. Owakudani. Traverse over sulfurous fumes, bubbling hot springs, and thermal rivers in this volcanic expanse. Don't miss the opportunity to try a sulfuric hot spring-boiled egg, rumored to extend your life by seven years – an experience unique to Hakone's history and folklore.

Sailing Aboard the Majestic Pirate Ship: Embark on a voyage across Lake Ashinoko aboard a grand replica pirate ship, an ancient lake born from a volcanic eruption 3000 years ago. Traverse these historic waters and embrace the natural splendor of this breathtaking region.

Odawara (Hakone) to Kyoto by JR Train: Embark on an exhilarating train ride from Odawara (Hakone) to the historic city of Kyoto. Glide through picturesque landscapes aboard a JR Train in the comfort of the Standard Class. Revel in the convenience of a smooth, swift journey that spans approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes.

Get ready for a captivating day as you embark on a guided tour of Kyoto's cultural treasures and historical landmarks. Your knowledgeable local guide will navigate the city's comprehensive bus system, offering seamless travel to renowned World Heritage Sites.

Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion): Begin your day at this awe-inspiring temple, initially crafted as a shogun's retreat and later transformed into a revered Buddhist temple. Admire its splendor and picturesque setting, making it one of Kyoto's most iconic attractions.

Nijo Castle: Immerse yourself in the ornate architecture of this historic castle, surrounded by breathtaking gardens. Experience the intrigue of the famous "nightingale floors" and the captivating design that echoes the rich history of the Edo Shogunate.

Nishiki Market: Traverse a vibrant food hub! Stroll through this five-block-long market street, where over a hundred shops and restaurants offer a delightful array of fresh seafood, local produce, knives, cookware, and various Kyoto specialties. Discover the flavors of Japanese cuisine in a lively, bustling atmosphere.

Kiyomizu Temple: At the Kiyomizu Temple, relish panoramic vistas of Kyoto from the elevated veranda. Delve into the intriguing fact that the Main Hall and Veranda were meticulously constructed without nails or joiners. Although under repair, the temple remains a significant and picturesque Kyoto landmark.

Sanjusangendo: Visit this extraordinary temple, featuring Japan's longest wooden structure. Marvel at the 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The center holds a magnificent wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon, flanked by an assembly of 500 statues on each side, creating a captivating sight.

Set off on an enlightening journey from Osaka to Hiroshima using the Shinkansen, where your accompanied journey takes you back in time to the tragic events of August 6, 1945.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Upon arrival, you'll step into the poignant landscape of the Peace Memorial Park, marking the ground zero of the Atomic Bombing. This solemn site pays homage to the lives lost in the tragic event. Stroll through the park adorned with memorials, monuments, and statues, and visit the museum that vividly portrays the impact of that fateful day.

Miyajima Island: A short ferry ride away awaits the serene Miyajima Island, a place steeped in Shinto traditions and natural beauty. Here, you'll encounter the iconic 'Floating Torii Gate,' one of Japan's most photographed sites. This sacred gate belongs to a shrine rooted in ancient history and masterful architecture, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the harmonious shrines, temples, and picturesque surroundings, tasting local delights such as the famous maple-leaf shaped cakes.

Osaka Castle: Dive into the grandeur of Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol deeply rooted in Japan's history. Renowned for its crucial role in Japan's unification, this reconstructed masterpiece stands true to its original form, housing a modern museum that narrates Osaka's rich past.

Dotonbori: Wander through the energetic district of Dotonbori, once a theater hub now transformed into a bustling food haven. Indulge in Osaka's famed takoyaki, savory octopus dumplings that are a quintessential street food, amidst the lively streets teeming with vibrant neon signs and culinary delights.

Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum: Discover the beauty of 18th-century Japanese prints at the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum. If available, engage in a hands-on woodblock printing experience to create your own art piece, a unique and immersive way to connect with Japan's artistic heritage.

Umeda Sky Building: Ascend the impressive Umeda Sky Building, a soaring 173-meter-high structure that offers a breathtaking panorama of Osaka's skyline. At the "Floating Garden Observatory" on the 39th floor, enjoy sweeping views of the cityscape and beyond, providing a captivating visual treat.

Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Osaka Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.

Our Service Includes:

• Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
• All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
• Hand-picked star-rating accommodations
• Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
• Governmental taxes

Tour code: ah-jp-cx-8

Inquire now! Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.

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Japan - Historical and Contemporary

Travel with Jason James OBE, the Director General of the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation, on a tour through Japan’s long history.

The itinerary follows Japanese history from the earliest historical records and continues via the shoguns, the arrival of the black ships, the Meiji Restoration and the opening of Japan, to the modern day.

The tour includes a range of specialist visits and experiences in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Hakone, the Izu Peninsula and Tokyo, which are illustrated by short talks throughout the tour.

Options include visiting a traditional onsen and walking the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto.

Itinerary at a glance

Plot your journey.

Travel through Japan and learn about the country's history, from the earliest historical records, continuing via the shoguns, the arrival of the black ships, the Meiji Restoration and the opening of Japan, to the modern day.

Tour highlights

Hear from Jason James OBE on the history of Japan, throughout the tour.

Travel up Mount Koya to visit Okunoin Temple, one of the most sacred places in Japan.

At the site of the Battle of Sekigahara and Inuyama Castle, learn of the Shoguns and of Japanese unification.

Tour gallery

Is this tour right for me?

Some walking between destinations, more time spent standing, and increased travel distances. Requires a reasonable level of fitness.

Tour leaders

We like charm, comfort, convenience in location, and of course, excellence in service. All hotels on this tour will be centrally located medium-grade hotels.

Ask us anything

If you have some questions about this particular tour, you can contact the Jon Baines Tours team by phone or email.

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If you'd like to be notified about our tours and events, please sign up for our email newsletter. We'll keep your email safe and secure in accordance with our privacy policy .

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8 Days The Last Shogun & Samurai | Highlights of Japan

• From Tokyo To Kyoto(Osaka)
• Wednesday, December 20, 2023 Updated

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Tour Descriptions

• Dates & Quote
• Accommodations

Tour Departure and Prices 1) Price per person.    2) Airfare is not included.  

Tour Includes

• - Travel Insurance
• - Optional Excursions

Travel Highlights

Important information, maximum group size.

The maximum number of participants will not exceed 26 people during your Japan tour. Your group may be joined with other tour groups during the tour. Please note that your bus and tour guide may be changed if other groups join the tour.

Single Supplement

Single travelers are required to pay a single supplement in order to guarantee single room accommodation.

We request one suitcase, one carry-on bag, and an overnight bag per person. The tote bag we provide can be used to hold any small merchandise/souvenirs purchased during your tour. When you check out, bring your luggage to the lobby and the bus driver will assist in loading it onto the bus. When you arrive at the next hotel, the bus driver will unload your luggage for you to bring to your room. Please note: The maximum weight of a checked in bag is typically 20 Kilograms or 44 Pounds. You will be traveling with your luggage except during the bullet train ride (if applicable).

Accommodation

All hotel rooms come with a full bathroom and room amenities free of charge unless stated otherwise.

Transportation

All motor coaches come equipped with air-conditioning, plenty of space, comfortable seats, and Wi-Fi.

International Flights

All of our tours begin in either Tokyo or Osaka/Kyoto. When beginning or ending a tour in Tokyo, please book flights to or from Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. For tours beginning or ending in Osaka/Kyoto, please book flights to or from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport. We recommend you do not book your flights until the tour status changes from Book Now to Guaranteed Departure . You can also contact us if you would like for Japan Deluxe Tour's to arrange your flights.

Fitness & Shoes

Traveling and visiting sights in Japan includes a good amount of walking. To fully enjoy the tour, please be prepared to keep up with the pace of the group, climb stairs with no difficulty, and wear comfortable shoes for all day use.

Guests with tattoos may not be able to use the hot-springs or onsens while in Japan. We apologize if you are unable to enjoy this experience during your stay.

Meals & Dietary Requirements

Please notify us before your tour starts if you have any dietary restrictions or requirements we should be aware about. Japan Deluxe Tours can provide Vegetarian meals for guests, and we will do our best to cater to any serious allergies or dietary restrictions. We will not be able to substitute or change meals after your tour begins.

• B :Breakfast

Dining Experience

Kaiseki Ryori

Kaiten Sushi

Teppan-Yaki Lunch

Cultural experience.

Green Tea Ceremony

Maiko Dining Experience

Japanese Style Hotel

Sake Tasting

Riding experience.

Bullet Train

Hakone Ropeway

Keep connected to the internet during your tour with a data SIM Card. This only provides wifi connection, not a phone number. ※Please check if your device is compatible with the SIM Card. ※If you live outside the U.S., you cannot select the SIM card.

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Japanese martial arts athlete training samourai kendo

©Fabio Formaggio/123RF

Mount Fuji from Kawaguchiko pagoda

©siraphol/123RF

Matsumoto Castle, also known as the "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior

©Claire Chang/123RF

Enjoy tasty Hida beef in Takayama

©cokemomo/123RF

Traditional geisha quarter with old wooden houses in Kanazawa, Japan

©passionphotography/123RF

Visit Ryoan-ji, Kyoto, the most famous rock and zen garden in Japan

©Philippe Voisin

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Path of the Samurai

• Duration : 16 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto
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This Japan tour will have you follow in the footsteps of the famous Japanese warriors .

Dive into the heart of historical Japan at Matsumoto Castle with our guide Sylvain or into the treasures of Kyoto , the former imperial capital. After Tokyo , a mixture of modernity and tradition , discover Japan's mountains: Mount Fuji and the Japanese Alps .

An original organised trip, for young and old!

16-day itinerary 

• Departure city/Airport : Tokyo (Narita : NRT or Haneda : HND )
• Tokyo  (4 nights)
• Kawaguchiko - Mount Fuji  (1 night)
• Matsumoto  (2 nights)
• Takayama (1 night)
• Kanazawa (2 nights)
• Osaka (2 nights)
• Kyoto (3 nights)
• Return city/Airport : Osaka (Kansai International Airport : KIX )

Please find below the itinerary details.

Tour length : 15 nights / 16 days ( + 1 day at the beginning if you leave from Europe )

PLEASE NOTE : The departure and end dates shown on this page only apply to your stay in Japan. You must therefore leave Europe the day before the first day of your tour. The date of your return flight and that of your return to Europe are identical due to the time difference.

Example : 

• Departure from Europe : January 1st
• Arrival in Tokyo ( = the date to be selected in the calendar when booking ) : January 2nd
• Return flight from NRT or HND airport / Return to Europe : January 17th

Please note that flights are not included in the price of your tour.

This tour information was  last updated on May 6 , 2024.

Interested in this tour but would like to spend a night in a Buddhist temple in Mount Koya? The Zen and Well-being tour might be right for you.

Why this trip to Japan ?

• Welcomed at the airport  by our team, you will be taken to your hotel in Tokyo by shuttle bus
• Head for Kawaguchiko, in the Five Lakes region below Mount Fuji
• In Matsumoto, Sylvain is waiting to take you on a samurai experience at the foot of the castle
• An unforgettable dinner and night in a ryokan in the heart of the Japanese Alps
• Continue on towards Kanazawa, passing through a typical Japanese mountain village
• Finish in Kyoto, where a guided tour of the Gion district awaits you at nightfall
• Take advantage of your  transport passes  : Fuji Hakone Pass, Shirakawago bus...
• On the final day, a  shuttle bus  will take you from your accommodation to the airport
• Enjoy unlimited  internet access  thanks to your pocket Wi-Fi
• If needed, contact our bilingual Japanese/English-speaking assistance team available 7/7
• A number of guided days or other optional  activities  are available
• Benefit from the expertise of  Japan Experience , European leading travel agency in Japan.

Your trip in detail

Day 1 : wake up in tokyo 東京.

Arrival in Japan

©Vasin Leenanuruksa / 123RF

Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita NRT or Haneda HND ). Welcome to Japan! Yokoso 日本へようこそ！

Welcome through customs by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi. Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo (see details).

The transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other guests departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival, and stops may be made before your hotel.

If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the arrival of your flight, feel free to take the " Private Taxi from the Airport " option.

Check in at Hotel OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).

Day 2 : First steps in the capital

Worldwide famous Shibuya crossing, Tokyo

©Wasin Pummarin/123RF

What to do in Tokyo on your first day

We recommend that you start your visit to Tokyo slowly by visiting the following districts: - Harajuku , the avant-garde district ;  - Meiji Jingû , the imperial sanctuary ; - Takeshita-Dôri , a must-see street in the capital ;  - Omotesandô , Tokyo's Champs-Élysées ;  - Shibuya and its impressive crossroads.

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Tokyo (optional, from 9am to 5pm).

Day 3 : The big loop

Senso-ji temple in Asakusa with Tokyo Sky Tree behind, a must-see on your first days to visit Tokyo

©Chan Richie/123RF

For this second day of sightseeing in Tokyo, we recommend the following "loop".

Start at Tokyo Central Station, with its original architecture, then head off to visit : - Ginza , Tokyo's chic district ; - Tsukiji , the small outdoor food market ; - Hama-rikyû , the Japanese garden between Tokyo's buildings ; - Asakusa , a traditional district and place of pilgrimage, accessible by cruise on the Sumida river ; - Sensô-ji , the oldest Buddhist temple in the Japanese capital ; - Tokyo Sky Tree , 643 metres high, with its panoramic view of Tokyo at sunset.

Between Hama-rikyû Garden and Asakusa, why not enjoy a cruise on the Sumida River ?

Day 4 : Follow the guide

Yakitori restaurant alley in Shinjuku, Tokyo

©Alexandre Chambon/Unsplash

There are still many places to discover according to your taste ! Ueno, Yanaka, Odaiba...

Don't hesitate to book an English-speaking guide for the day (optional) to visit Tokyo off the beaten path!

Make the most of our many optional activities: - Are you looking more for fun? Ghibli Museum, Disneyland or Hello Kitty Park are waiting for you! - Do you prefer a themed activity? Book a visit on an architecture tour, gardens, home cooking or Noh's theatre. - Chasing thrills? Let yourself be tempted by a helicopter ride or a sumo tournament (in season)!

Day 5 : A breathtaking view of Fuji

Mount Fuji from Kawaguchiko pagoda in Fall season

©Prasit Rodphan/123RF

In the morning, send your luggage to your hotel in Matsumoto (details in your travel diary, check with the hotel reception) so that you can travel light for your night in Kawaguchiko .

Go to Shinjuku station and take a bus for Kawaguchiko (approx. 3h, included in your package). The train leaves the Japanese megalopolis and gradually winds its way through the valleys of the Mount Fuji region. You will arrive in Kawaguchiko  in the late morning. 

Upon arrival, stash your bags at your conveniently located hotel near the station. Then, it's finally time to delve into the wonders of the Five Lakes region! - Capture Mount Fuji framed by the iconic Chureito Pagoda and be prepared for a rewarding climb - the view is worth every step ; - Next, embark on a scenic lake hopping adventure. Each glistening lake reflects Mount Fuji's majestic peak , offering countless opportunities for stunning photos ; - Take the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for a breathtaking panorama of both the lake and Mount Fuji.  

Consider renting a bike for a half-day adventure around scenic Lake Kawaguchiko, capturing stunning views of Mount Fuji along the way!

Day 6 : Nature and mountain lakes

Mount Fuji at sunset

©manjik/123RF

Breakfast at the hotel.

In the morning, soak up the beauty of Kawaguchiko and its surroundings. Then, in the afternoon, embark on a scenic train journey (approximately 3h30 with two transfers) that will whisk you away to Matsumoto , nestled in the heart of the majestic Japanese Alps .

Once arrived, check into your hotel located in the city centre, between the station and the castle.

Day 7 : The Samurai Castle

Steeped in history, Matsumoto has preserved many traces of its prosperity from the feudal period. Yet, the crown jewel of the city is its imposing castle, nicknamed the "Crow" for its dramatic black exterior. This magnificent structure, the oldest of its kind in Japan , offers breathtaking panoramic views year-round.

Beyond its historical charm, Matsumoto thrived as an industrial and commercial center. Even today, the Nakamichi district preserves a unique collection of workshops from the Meiji era , offering a glimpse into the city's bustling past.

Unveil the secrets of Matsumoto with a captivating half-day private tour and explore the city's rich history, including its iconic feudal castle and charming historical districts. This experience allows you to delve deeper into the past, perhaps even step into the shoes of a samurai for a morning with our expert guide Sylvain. Please not that during peak season, this tour may be substituted with a half-day guided tour in Tokyo. 

Day 8 : The charm of the Japanese mountains

Taste Japanese sake in a brewerie

©SUSANA MARTIN/123RF

In the morning, send your luggage to your hotel in Kanazawa (details in your travel diary, check with the hotel reception) so that you can travel light for your night in Takayama .

Head to Takayama by bus, a memorable journey through the mountains (approx. 2h30, included in your package). Once arrived, check into your 3* Asunaro ryôkan or equivalent , located in the heart of the capital of the Japanese Alps .

Enjoy the charms of Takayama  at your own pace, its century-old homes, temples and museums.

We recommend you to visit: - The traditional Kusakabe and Yoshijima houses ; - The Yatai Kaikan Exhibition Hall, where old religious festival " matsuri " floats are on display ; - The picturesque Shôwa-kan , museum on the 1940s to 1970s ; - The old Sannomachi shopping district ; - The Fuji Folk Art Museum .

Traditional Japanese dinner included in the ryôkan .

Day 9 : Rural & Mountain

Shirakawago, typical village of the Japanese Alps classified as World Heritage

Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryôkan .

Next stop: Shirakawago ! Board a convenient bus ride (approximately 50 minutes, included in your package) and immerse yourself in this charming village nestled in the Japanese Alps . Stroll through the village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and marvel at the traditional gassho-style farmhouses with their iconic thatched roofs. 

Consider stepping inside a minka , a traditional Japanese house, to get a glimpse into the local way of life. For those seeking spiritual serenity, a visit to the Myôzen-ji temple , the village's Zen temple, is a must.

In the middle of the afternoon, head to Kanazawa by bus (1h15 journey, included in your package). Once arrived, check into your hotel located in the heart of this dynamic city.

Day 10 : The pearl of Japan

Enjoy nature and history in Kanazawa castle park, in the heart of the city

©kevboynet/123RF

Discover Kanazawa, between the northern sea and the Japanese Alps : - Kenroku-en , Kanazawa's magnificent Japanese garden ; - The Museum of Contemporary Art and its outdoor gallery ; - Omicho , the Sea of Japan fish market ; - Nomura House, home of the samurai , and its picturesque old quarter .

Overnight stay at your hotel in Kanazawa .

Day 11 : First steps in the capital of Kansai

Osaka Castle, one of famous castles in Japan.

©︎Natthapon Ngamnithiporn

For your next leg, whisk yourself away to Osaka on a high-speed shinkansen (approx. 3h, included in your package). Once arrived, check-in at Hotel Intergate Osaka Umeda or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).

What is there to do in Osaka in 2 days ?

We recommend that you start your visit to Osaka slowly, in the northern and eastern districts :

- Osaka's medieval castle , with its park full of plum and cherry trees ; - The city centre and Nakanoshima Island , with its rose park surrounded by buildings ; - Utsubo Park , a cool oasis in the business district ; - Visit Umeda , the temple of Japanese shopping ; - Finish off with the Umeda Sky building at dusk for a 360° view of Kansai (including Kyoto on a clear day!).

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Osaka (optional, from 9am to 5pm). 

Day 12 : Gastronomic introduction

Osaka - Dotonbori - Canal

©Juliana Barquero - unsplash

For your second day in Osaka, we recommend the following itinerary :

- Osaka Kaiyûkan Aquarium , the world's largest aquarium in terms of volume ; - The Tennôji district and its Shitennô-ji Buddhist temple , one of the oldest in Japan ; - Spa World , Japan's largest thermal baths ( onsen ) ; - Shinseikai , with its retro charm ; - DenDen machi , the technologeek village ; - Finish off with Dôtonbori , the liveliest district in Japan.

Day 13 : The former capital

Old streets in Gion, traditional Kyoto district : a must-see when visiting Kyoto

Take the local train to Kyoto (about 1h using your prepaid transport card) and check into the RAKURO 京都 by THE SHARE HOTELS or equivalent (rooms available from 3pm).

You have 3 days to visit Kyoto. Start in the afternoon in the historic Gion district, close to your accommodation : - Kiyomizu-Dera , the impressive water temple ; - The historic lanes of Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka ; - Kôdai-ji , Kyoto's temple of maple trees and bamboo. Finish your day with a stroll through the Gion district and enjoy the sunset. Meet your guide at 7 p.m. to start your evening walk around Gion , Kyoto's historic district. More details on the exact day and meeting point can be found in your travel guide.

At the end of this 1h30 walk, your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat dinner! Please note that it is strictly forbidden to take pictures in the historic district of Gion..

Day 14 : Gold and Silver Treasures

For your second day in Kyoto, we recommend the following itinerary: - The Zen garden of Ryôan-ji ; - Kinkaku-ji ( Golden Pavilion ) ; - Ginkaku-ji ( Silver Pavilion ) - The enchanting Philosopher's Path ; - Nanzen-ji temple.

One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on a tour of these iconic sites (available as an option, from 9am to 5pm).

Day 15 : Now for some activity...

Visit Fushimi Inari, one of the most famous shrine in Kyoto

Continue your visit to Kyoto by heading west: - Nishiki , Kyoto's culinary market; - Nijô Castle , former residence of the shogun; - Arashiyama , with its bamboo grove and monkey mountain.

This is your last full day to visit Kyoto, so why not make the most of our many optional activities : - Want to enjoy nature? Discover our cycling activities along the Kamo-gawa river or hiking in the Takao gorges! - If you're more into the Japanese arts , you'll love our tea ceremony, meditation activities or private visits to secret gardens! - If you're in the mood for the Japanese countryside , let yourself be tempted by a trip to Ohara or try our popular activity: on the Tea Road!

Or, you could also take the 50 minute journey to Nara (not included in your package)! For your last evening, don't forget to see the sunset at the Fushimi Inari-taisha , Kyoto's immense shrine of 10,000 torii .

Day 16 : Sayonara, and see you next time!

Sayonara - bye bye Japan !

©Maksims Grigorjevs/123RF

Take a direct transfer to Kansai International Airport (included but not accompanied).

This transfer is by shuttle or shared bus, with other customers departing from the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers arrive between 3 hours and 1.5 hours before the actual departure of your flight, and stops can be made before you arrive at the airport.

If you prefer a private transfer at a time of your choice, direct to the airport and with no intermediate stops, select the "Private Taxi to Airport" option.

Return flight to Europe, North America, Australia.

Don't hesitate to extend your trip by a few days, in the Kansai area or elsewhere... Get in touch and we would be happy to advise you!

Included in your self-guided tour

Accomodation

- 4  nights in a 3* hotel  in the heart of Tokyo, close to public transport

- 1  night in a 3* hotel  in Kawaguchiko

- 2  nights in a 3* hotel  in Matsumoto, between the train station and the castle 

- 1 night in a ryokan in the historic centre of Takayama, traditional half-board

- 2  nights in a 3* hotel in Kanazawa

- 2  nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of Osaka, close to public transport

- 3  nights in a 3* hotel  in the heart of Kyoto, close to public transport

The basic rate includes a twin room for two people.

- Airport transfer to Tokyo HND or NRT

- Return airport transfer Kyoto > Kansai International Airport KIX

- Prepaid public transport card

- Bus tickets for Tokyo > Kawaguchiko

- Fuji Hakone Pass 3 days

- Train tickets for Kawaguchiko > Matsumoto

- Bus tickets for Matsumoto > Takayama

- Bus tickets for the journey from Takayama > Shirakawago > to Kanazawa

- Shinkansen Kanazawa > Osaka, seats reserved in standard class

Experiences and meals

- Airport meet and greet  

- Traditional dinner and breakfast included at the ryôkan in Takayama

- Discounts at many of Kawaguchiko tourist sites

- The breakfasts in Kawaguchiko , Matsumoto and Kanazawa

- Half-day tour of Matsumoto with samurai experience 

- Night guided tour of Gion, Kyoto

Additional services

- Unlimited internet access with Pocket WiFi

- Complete digital travel guide sent before your departure

- Luggage transfer between your hotels in Tokyo > Matsumoto and  Matsumoto > Kanazawa

- Telephone assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Japanese bilingual. The number will be given to you in your travel pack. This phone number is valid for telephone calls and also for WhatsApp.

Not included in the price of your trip

- Flights Europe <> Japan

- Optional insurance

- Personal expenses, including meals (breakfasts can sometimes be added as an option at your hotel reception, see details). For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack.

- Public transport once your transport cards have run out (see details)

- Everything not mentioned in the section "Included in your tour".

More about your trip

Your tour :

• The prices displayed on this page may vary according to the exchange rate of the Japanese ¥.
• Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
• Children and babies accepted. From 3 to 11 years old a child rate is offered. In each accommodation, a standard adult bed will be offered to them, and a standard seat will be allocated to them in transport. From 0 to 2 years old inclusive, a "baby" rate is offered. This price corresponds to the allocation of a cot in the majority of the accommodation of the chosen circuit. However, we cannot guarantee a baby cot in each accommodation.
• Pets are not allowed.
• This programme is subject to change due to circumstances such as weather conditions or any other case of force majeure. Please note that due to the current circumstances, any information mentioned is subject to change or modification.
• Travel diary by email 3 weeks before departure, and other electronic documents 
• Paper documents (airport transfer ticket, transportation card, Japan Rail Pass voucher) and Pocket WiFi upon arrival at the airport by our airport assistant.
• N.B.: no ticket for airport transfers from Kansai airport. The reservation is registered in the name of the tour reservation.
• N.B.: In very rare cases, mostly in very high season, steps might be reversed. You will be informed in your mini travel-guide. Thanks for your kind understanding.

Your accommodation :

• Double room: Rooms for two people in western hotels have 2 single beds (twin rooms) by default, which can usually be joined together. As an option, you can select a double room instead of a twin if you prefer a double bed.
• Single room: People travelling alone and wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. The single room supplement is compulsory for orders with an odd number of participants. Please note that if you request more than two people in a single room, the single room supplement will be applied to all accommodation except for the ryokans (3 and 4*). In fact, as this is traditional accommodation, people with the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms for up to 5 people.
• 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, a triple room will be allocated to you.
• In the case of a group order (> 5 people), it is possible, depending on hotel availability, that not all members of the group will be accommodated in the same hotel. Nevertheless, we aim to keep you close. 
• Names of the hotels : The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled. Hotels, corresponding to local standards, are given as an indication and may be changed on site for hotels of a similar category.
• In the ryôkan , guests sleep on comfortable futons placed on the tatami mat. The room has a private sink and toilet. As is customary in Japanese ryôkan , the onsen bathroom is shared (not mixed) unless you take the "private bathroom in the room" option. OPTIONAL: Enjoy a private Japanese bathroom (traditional or modern onsen) in your room. This option is recommended for mixed couples, families, people who are modest or have visible tattoos. The 4* ryôkan (see 4* option) have comfortable futons raised on either western beds in a traditional tatami room. The bathrooms and toilets of the 4* ryôkan are private.

Your transport :

• Flights are not included in this tour . Do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to include flights in your order: Flights in economy class with stopovers or direct flights, eco-premium or business air upgrades, provincial departures or abroad: we will be able to advise you.
• The tour departure and end dates presented on this page relate to your stay in Japan. You will arrive in Japan via Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airports) and depart from Kansai airport (KIX, not Itami ITM). On departure, you will have to leave Europe the day before and land at 6:30 p.m. at the most to make the most of the airport services of your circuit (reception and transfer to Tokyo). The return flight is on the same day due to the time difference, with a departure time of 9am at the earliest. Please do not hesitate to consult us for any uncertainty or need for precision in the choice of international flights.
• If the flights have been purchased by your care without the intervention of Japan Experience, it is necessary to send us by mail 1 month before your departure your flight information (flight number, airport, date and time of arrival) to allow us 'Organize your welcome and airport transfer.
• Airport Transfers: The shared limousine bus leaves from the airport and stops either in front of your hotel or at a stop within 1-15 minutes walk from your hotel. Our airport assistant in Tokyo will drive you to the platform to pick up the airport transfer. The transfer to the hotel is unassisted. If you wish to be accompanied from the airport to your hotel reception, please choose the option "Accompanied Airport Transfer". This transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other clients leaving for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers leave between 1.5 and 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival and stops can be made before your hotel. If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the actual arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option. Please note: due to the many changes in flight schedules by the airlines, if the airline notifies you of a change in arrival time less than 72 hours before your departure, and if it exceeds 45 minutes, we cannot guarantee your airport shuttle. You will then have to take a taxi at your own expense, requesting a refund from your airline for abusive schedule changes. The same applies to your return journey: 72 hours before your return flight, we cannot change the shuttle schedule. Similarly, you will have to take a taxi booked with the hotel, at your own expense, with reimbursement procedures with the airline company being the only solution. Japan Experience is not responsible for last minute schedule changes. On the way back, the shared shuttle bus leaves from your hotel or very close by to take you directly to the Kansai KIX airport in 1 hour 30.
• Included in your tour is a pre-charged transport prepayment card of ¥ 1,500 (around £10.30 / 14.54$) (suica or Pasmo brand); bus tickets for Tokyo > Kawaguchiko, 1 Fuji Hakone Pass 3 days, train tickets for Kawaguchiko > Matsumoto, bus tickets for Matsumoto > Takayama, bus tickets for the journey from Takayama > Shirakawago > to Kanazawa, shinkansen tickets for Kanazawa > Osaka, (seats reserved in standard class). These cards should cover a large part of your trips during the stay. Upon expiry of the 1,500¥ transport prepaid card, any travel will be at your own expense by recharging your prepaid transport card (at vending machines in all stations and metro stations). 
• The Matsumoto > Takayama and Takayama > Shirakawago > Kanazawa bus trips are included in your offer. Takayama > Shirakawago bus tickets are not reserved tickets. You must arrive at least 15 minutes before the bus leaves in order to reserve your seat. Tickets for other buses are reserved seats.

Your activities :

• Airport reception is in English. Your airport assistant will be waiting for you at the customs exit holding a sign with the name of the reservation. They will give you your travel documents and take you to your airport transfer. They will not accompany you to Tokyo (this is possible, but optional).
• The Matsumoto tour lasts around 4 hours and includes a samurai experience. Please note that the tour will be conducted in English if your group is made up of travellers of different nationalities. More details on the meeting point in your travel pack. Dinner is not included, but your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat.
• The guided tour of Gion lasts around 2 hours and departs at 7pm. Please note that the tour will be conducted in English if your group is made up of travellers of different nationalities. More details on the meeting point in your travel pack. Dinner is not included, but your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat.

Your meals :

• Breakfasts which are not included in your package can be added at the reception when you arrive at the hotel. However, you will find many cafés near your hotel serving copious breakfasts, often tastier than those in the hotels, which sometimes have tight schedules and are predominantly savoury. However, if you would like to add breakfast to your offer when you make your reservation, you can select it as an option.
• Traditional Japanese dinner and Japanese breakfast (mostly savoury) are included in your Hakone tour. Do not hesitate to indicate any dietary requirements you may have, we will pass them on to the ryôkan so that they can take them into account when planning the meals. If the ryôkan does not take any of these dietary requirements into account, we cannot be held responsible and no compensation will be issued.

Your additional services:

• A pocket wifi is included in your tour. It allows unlimited high-speed internet access. Your Pocket WiFi will be given to you at the airport of arrival.
• It comes with a small booklet to operate your device (don't panic: simple operation) and a prepaid envelope to return your device at the end of your stay. Your pocket wifi will work naturally until the last day of your trip to Japan.
• A maximum of 5 devices can be connected to a pocket wifi (phone, tablet, computer).
• A single pocket wifi is provided for a circuit order of 1 to 5 people. For an order of 6 people or more, a second pocket wifi will be added automatically and at no extra cost to your reservation.

When you buy, Japan Experience offers you 2 types of protection:

Japan Experience Flex :  Cancellation insurance before departure under conditions.

Japan Experience Protect : Pre-departure cancellation insurance under conditions and on-site assistance under conditions. 

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa? Do I need vaccinations?

As of October 11, 2022, Japan will open its borders to all Europeans (including the European Union, the United Kingdom and Switzerland) and North Americans (Canada and the United States) without requiring a visa.

Only non-triply vaccinated travelers need a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours prior to departure.

Do I still need a visa to travel to Japan as a tourist?

No, no visa is required for blue countries including all European countries (European Union, United Kingdom and Switzerland included) and North American countries (Canada and United States). List of blue countries: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html . If you have another nationality, please contact the Japanese embassy in your country of residence to obtain this visa.

Do I still need a PCR or antigen test to go to Japan?

No, if you are triple vaccinated with the vaccines approved by Japan (Pfizer, Moderna, ...exhaustive list here : https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page24e_000317.html ) there is no need for any test.

I do not have 3 doses of vaccine or I am not vaccinated against COVID, can I enter Japan?

Proof of Covid vaccines is no longer required for travelers from "blue" countries. Therefore, unvaccinated travelers can enter Japan if they live in blue countries. But a negative PCR test is required at embarkation for travelers who are not vaccinated 3 times.

Is there still a quarantine upon arrival in Japan?

Quarantine and testing on arrival have been eliminated for travelers from blue countries.

Is insurance mandatory?

No, but it is recommended. Japan Experience, as an option of its tours, provides appropriate travel insurance solutions.

What anti-covid measures are still in place in Japan?

The mask must be worn indoors (except in exceptional cases) and in transportation.

What applications should I download before entering Japan?

For tracking the evolution of the coronavirus epidemic, the Japanese government recommends downloading several applications:

MySOS, the health and location tracking app (it will be used to confirm your location, health status and accommodation).

COCOA, the COVID-19 contact confirmation app (this will be used to notify you of possible contact with a COVID-19 positive person).

For more information, please visit: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/manual/pdf-en/summary.pdf 

What are the procedures for entry?

Due to the current crisis, we advise you to visit the website of the Japanese embassy in your country to find out about the procedures for entry. Normally, for citizens of the European Union, Switzerland and Canada, you just need a valid passport (for the duration of your stay). A visa is not necessary for a tourist stay of less than 90 days.

When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms? And the autumn leaves?

Recommended dates for seeing the spring flowers: - plum blossoms: mid-February to mid-March - cherry blossoms (sakura): between 20 March and 15 April (dates vary from year to year) - wisteria, iris, azaleas: mid-April to end of May - hydrangeas: June - lotus flowers: August Recommended dates outside of spring : - Autumn leaves: mid-November - Observation of Zen gardens under the snow: mid-December to mid-February

Where should you start your tour in Japan? Where should you finish?

Most Japan Experience tours begin in Tokyo. This is because it is the gateway to both modern and traditional Japan. Tokyo allows a traveller to enter Japan step by step, whilst getting used to the time difference. Tokyo also has Japan's top two airports in terms of traffic. A few of our tours end in the Kansai region (Kyoto or Osaka). The return flight then goes from from Kansai International Airport (KIX), the 3rd largest airport in Japan, offering many possibilities for return flights to Europe without any real extra cost compared to a return flight from Tokyo. On these tours, the Japan Rail Pass does not cover the whole tour, allowing you to reduce the total price of the tour. And this without losing any transport possibilities as the Japan Rail Pass is of little use in Kansai. However, tours are available from Tokyo and sometimes other cities in Japan.

What are the essentials for a first trip to Japan?

The must-see places for a first trip to Japan are:

• Tokyo, the megalopolis with a thousand sides to it
• Kyoto, the capital of sophistication and Nara, with its temples and deer
• Hiroshima, between memory and modern times, and its sacred island Miyajima
• Mount Fuji, Japan's most famous mountain
• The Japanese Alps: Takayama, Matsumoto, Shirakawa-go
• Kanazawa, both modern and traditional, on the Sea of Japan

And many other unforgettable places to discover in our tours.

How long should a trip to Japan last?

For a first trip to Japan, a period of 2 weeks is optimal, with at least 3 days in Tokyo and 3 days in Kyoto and its region. Don't forget to take some time at the beginning of the trip to get used to the time difference.

When to go to Japan?

There are 4 seasons in Japan.

Spring , from the end of February to the end of May, is a mild season suitable for all kinds of activities. It is of course the period when sakura (cherry trees) bloom, the perfect occasion to admire them (hanami). Their blooming period is between March 20 and April 10 for Tokyo and Kyoto areas, while it is possible to admire them earlier in the south of the country and later in the north. The cherry blossom period is very popular and generates a lot of crowds. However, there are other beautiful flowers that bloom during this season: plum blossoms, with their sparkling pink at the end of February; fabulous azaleas in April-May; hydrangeas of all colors or irises during June.

Summer , from June to August, is generally synonymous with heat with a rainy season in the last two weeks of June during which you can expect rain several days a week. During this very hot and humid season, it is possible to enjoy fireworks (hanabi) in July and August, as well as matsuri , traditional Japanese festivals. Among the most famous are the Gion matsuri, which is held in Kyoto in mid-July or the Obon Matsuri in mid-August.

Then comes the high wind season (taifu) , which reaches its peak between August and September, but it is not necessary to avoid going during this period. Indeed, there is little chance that they will involve changing your travel plans, few of them even reaching the main island. 

Autumn , from September to November, is the season when temperatures are generally the most pleasant, quite similar to the continental European climate. It is also the season when the country is decorated with red tones and when one can admire the momiji (literally red leaves) which are usually visible in Tokyo, Kyoto and their region during the last two weeks of November.

Finally, winter, from December to February, is the coldest season but also the opportunity to admire the striking beauty of winter landscapes . December is a period of calm before the holiday season, while January is marked by a drop in temperature and the presence of a number of festivals. In central Japan, temperatures usually range from -4 to 10°C. In the mountains and the north of the country, temperatures drop significantly, while in Kyushu and Okinawa, winter tends to be milder.

The most touristic periods are :  - in February, the 10 days around the Chinese New Year, which marks a strong influx of tourists from all over Asia; - between the end of March and the beginning of April, the cherry blossom period; - between the end of April and the beginning of May, during the "Golden Week", a period with many public holidays and during which many Japanese go on vacation; - mid-August, during the Obon Matsuri; - at the end of November, the best period to observe the momiji; - early January, for the New Year, when many businesses and activities are closed.   So, if you want to go during a less crowded period, Japan Experience recommends you to go : - in February, outside the Chinese New Year period, for the cool but nevertheless pleasant weather and the splendid blooming of plum trees, before the cherry trees; - between mid-May and early June, to take advantage of the mild weather, lower traffic and the blooming of hydrangeas, azaleas and irises; - from September to early December, to take advantage of good temperatures, a reasonable level of tourism and the momiji period in late November.

Our commitments as Japan Experience, Europe No. 1 travel in Japan

• The guarantee of the  first tour operator  specialised exclusively in Japan for 40 years
• A wide range of products to let you  Experience Japan from the inside
• Competitive prices  thanks to a single team in UK, Europe, USA and Japan, with no intermediaries
• Assistance  available in Japan throughout your trip
• A  specialised team  is available 7 days a week by phone or email
• The best advice thanks to the  3,500 articles  available on our website

Optional services

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Our other Self-Guided tours

Discover other Self-Guided tours like « Path of the Samurai »

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• Duration : 8 days
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Tokyo, Mount Fuji & Kyoto Self-Guided Tours in Japan

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Romantic tour in Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

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• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Okayama, Miyajima, Kyoto

Tohoku: Traditional Japan Self-Guided Tours in Japan

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City break - Tokyo tour Self-Guided Tours in Japan

• Locations : Tokyo

Our activities in Tokyo, Fujikawaguchiko, Matsumoto, Takayama , Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Osaka, Kyoto

On the trail of the Samurai Matsumoto

• Duration : 3 hour
• Location : Matsumoto

Bunraku, the traditional art of Japanese puppetry Activities in Osaka

• Duration : 2 hour
• Location : Osaka

Tokyo Game Show Activities in Tokyo

• Duration : 5 hour
• Location : Tokyo

Soba making and Matsumoto Castle Visit Matsumoto

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Takayama Discovery, half day Activities in Takayama

• Duration : 4 hour
• Location : Takayama

Please select your country on the list below:

• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
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Understanding the history of Japan for a small group tour.

Article for mature and senior traveller s seeking to Join a small group package tour of Japan with an interest in the history and culture of these islands. From tea ceremony to understanding Hanami, the cherry blossom or walking Japan's coast . These small group tours are for couples and single travellers.

26 Jun 20 · 40 mins read

Understanding the history of Japan for small group Japan tours.

The history of Japan is composed of a great number of aspects. A reader may see the history purely as a chronicle of events but the very nature of the culture of this country of Japan makes it so much more. Adventures, and underlying lessons to be heeded, set within the framework of a mystery born through policies of isolation, make for an age-old story of intrigue and unanswered questions. And it those questions that the Japanese themselves as well as much of the rest of the world attempt to answer when they consider both their culture and their present position with today’s global society.

For the curious traveller Odyssey’s Japan tours provide a tour director and knowledgable tour guide to explore and build on this escorted tour itinerary through the history of Japan, an understanding of the people, the society and culture of this country. For the mature and senior traveller this Japan tour is for couples and the single traveller who are inquisitive and ready to explore the great cities of Tokyo, Kyoto , Osaka, Hiroshima and Hokkaido. To reflect on the influence of Mount fuji on society, to understand the historic importance of perfection in Japanese culture. Japanese culture and history has it roots in myths. The relevance and impotance of the history is revealed though the trip itinerary on this guided tour from the traditional tea ceremony to the hot spring, cherry blossom season, the role of the temple and the shrine such as Fushimi inari shrine and appointed UNESCO world heritage site visited. For the traveller on these Japan tours small group foccussed programs, the history of Japan is built up through the itinerary of the guided tour with Japan specialists supported by your tour director creating the perfect Japan trip, whether on the contemporary Japan or walking small group escorted tour.

It has been said myths act as a mirror to human nature, reflecting hopes, needs, wishes and our most basic fears. Myths of creation search for our origins, hero myths look for role models while fertility myths provide stability from both the point of view of the availability of sustenance and the sense of family. Most societies hold their myths somewhere in their histories, in one form or another. Earlier rulers and leaders harkened back to the myths rationalising and legitimising their positions in the eyes of their peoples.

Japan followed much the same course as this when, in the later 7 th century CE, Emperor Temmu had the Japanese ancient oral traditions recorded. Perhaps somewhat reworked to create a bloodline leading back to the divine, the myths appeared in the Record of Ancient Things ( Kojiki ) sometime in 712CE, with the Chronicles of Japan ( Nihon Shoki ) bound eight years later. Although not to be relied upon as an accurate historical source these ‘records’ provide, if approached with caution, avenues to understand some of Japan’s past.

The Emperor’s new take on the ancient myths allowed his Imperial family from the imperial palace, to claim descent from the Light of Heaven, Amaterasu who rules over the heavens from the Plain of High Heaven, Takamagahara . Interestingly, most scholars of Japanese studies who work with myths point out something they believe unique to this mythology. There appears to be no moral judgement weighed upon the figures within the tales. Although punishment is meted out, actions appear to be deemed acceptable or unacceptable rather than morally good or evil. There is no compendium of principles that are universally applicable. Certain commentators find a direct connection in this to the appraisal of behaviours in modern-day Japan.

This article on the history of Japan for small group Japan tours now begins a chronlological review of the building of Japanese culture through its history. The concise history outlined in this article are intended to provide the traveler with key periods of significant shifts within the history of Japan. On your chosen package tour of Japan (or walking tour) then this article is the scaffold for your learning and is supplemented by the Japan specialists who are your tour guide for certain days within the framework of the Japan tour itinerary.

The Jomon Period (c. 13,000 BCE -c. 400 BCE ) Hunters and Gatherers

If people are asked where they think the production of ceramics originated, most would immediately point to Mesopotamia or perhaps even Egypt. Likely this comes from the greater exposure of the ancient history of those regions with terminology like the Cradle of Civilisation foremost in most people’s minds. However, pottery vessels have been unearthed on archaeological sites in Japan dating back some 5000 years before the appearance of this technology elsewhere. It seems, for reasons that can only be guessed at, the very early inhabitants of the islands of Japan stumbled across the processes involved in the firing of clay, molding shapes and forms to assist their lifestyle, their culture and their belief systems.

There is no definitive evidence yet available to say when the first humans arrived in Japan although there are some who attempt to push back the advent of occupation in the region to something in the vicinity of 500,000 years ago. There may be a few who attempt to push that date back further but most now agree that 200,000 years is probable, even though the earliest human fossilized remains uncovered thus far date to 30,000 BP (before present).

With the conclusion of the last glacial period, that is the Ice Age, around 15,000 years ago, Japan lost its connections to mainland Asia as seawaters covered land bridges to the north, to the south and in the centre. Prior to the loss of these causeways, immigration would have been a simple matter of following migrating herds of food animals towards the east. Evidence suggests patterns, and therefore waves of migration taking place from at least 30,000 years ago. It is likely that successive groups traveled into the region before being denied access by rising sea levels. Keep in mind when you tour Japan that the coastline from those ancient times lies well below the water which means archaeologists tend to examine what would have then been sites located further inland. There would have been far more coastal activity than archaeological excavations would suggest.

As with many areas of the world at that time, the early inhabitants of Japan were probably organised in smaller groups, likely extended families. Following game to hunt and plants to gather would have been, by necessity seasonal and as such, basically nomadic. In the short term, seasonal variations would have also dictated the patterns of occupation and movement, while over the long-term climate change would have pushed family groups to particular regions. Ancient people had two choices, the first being to move in response to adverse climatic conditions, for example decreasing temperatures. The second would have been to stay in the area and adapt their lifestyle to better suit. It could be said with some certainty that different groups in ancient Japan made different choices regarding their survival although their motivations are far less sure.

People have by necessity responded to their environment and changing climate. With higher sea levels, it can be assumed that the benefits offered by the sea would have been used to greater advantage and as the waters fell, resources further inland would have then also been included. During this early Jomon period, archaeologists believe that the people constantly returned to avail themselves of the coastal areas and the abundant food sources- a preference for seafood?

One of the staples of the Japanese diet still now is rice, and most Japanese would more than likely closely associate this with a history stretching far back into the age of the hunters and gatherers. However, studies have confirmed that rice arrived into Japan sometime after its cultivation in China and Korea had begun. In fact, it seems probable that Japan may well have been the last of the nations of the Asian region to begin the cultivation of this particular grain.

Although Japan’s inhabitable surface area is relatively small, the high mountains, narrow coastal plains and volatile tectonic movement would have seen considerable regional variation among different groups, that is the existence of contemporary sub-cultures. Such variety would have also increased over time with particular technologies originating from a specific area. Evidence of the production of cloth from hemp has been found dating to around 5000BCE while the famed lacquer-ware appeared less than a thousand years later. These serve as two regional examples. The landscape, the changing environment and climate would also have limited the overall population of a region with great fluctuation in numbers throughout prehistory.

Now, although there would have been great diversity among the different groups, there are a number of specific changes that are apparent over a much wider area. One such change is a notable development of what seems to be an awareness of the supernatural. This is exemplified in new methods of burial, the advent of a number of stone circles and of standing stones. This may also indicate a change in the organisation of the Jomon society but whether the people lived in an egalitarian of hierarchical system is still hotly debated.

Archaeological excavations have shown that the people of Jomon were relatively short in stature and of a stocky build. These features, along with other physical affinities, allow anthropological studies to conclude the Ainu people on present-day Hokkaido are directly descendant from those of the Jomon. The physical characteristics of the Ainu set them apart from other modern Japanese who are now believed to have descended from a separate group from the later Yayoi period. The fact is that the Ainu are to be considered the indigenous people of Japan, although this was not legally or officially recognised until 1997.

The Yayoi Period (c. 400BCE-c. 250CE) – Emergence of a Japan

There is general agreement among scholars that around 400BCE, or possibly slightly earlier, a wave of new immigrants flooded into Japan. The origin and the motivations of these new people are unclear but it is obvious that Japan of the Jomon Period soon disappeared, or was rather subsumed by the newcomers. These people were taller and lighter in stature with narrower facial features when compared to the indigenous groups. They brought with them advanced technology for working both bronze and iron and evidence also points to their more highly developed methods of rice cultivation, the latter suggesting a greater reliance of this particular food source.

With the arrival of these immigrants, a significant increase in rice production can be seen, with the spread of paddies noted in much of the country, although particularly towards the south and the west. Keep in mind that although rice as well as bronze and iron were in Japan prior to the new groups’ arrival, the archaeological record proves that production was as yet on a limited scale. If we follow the widening distribution of the cultivation of rice in tandem with that of the metalworking we can approximate the pattern of the rapid spread of the immigrants. However, perhaps for reasons related to climate, the movement toward the northern areas was far slower than to the central areas of Honshu, with archaeologists speaking of a phase in Hokkaido they call ‘continuing Jomon.’

Usually, accompanying agricultural development, we see an increase in more permanent settlements and the establishment of defined territories. Also there comes a reliance on a basic commodity, here in point rice, which allows control and the growth of social hierarchy. With the founding of settlements and their boundaries, there would have come a need for defense as wealth increased and became more concentrated. For example, Japan has limited sources of ore for metal production so possession or control of this would have greatly augmented the trading status for that area. Other new technologies would also have contributed to the wealth of particular groups. The manufacture of silk from around the 1 st century CE along with glass production allowed a far wider diversity of goods available for trading. Archaeologists have found that in each settlement dated to the Yayoi Period was a specific district dedicated to marketing and exchange. The largest settlement excavated to date, Asahi in the prefecture of Aichi (Nagoya), covered close to eighty hectares although the typical Yayoi town ranged from approximately two to thirty hectares.

The Yayoi Period and the increasing struggle for control of territory and resources meant that strategic alliances were creating something along the lines of a series of kingdoms. There are no written Japanese sources from this period so much of the knowledge about Japan during this time comes from the Chinese histories such as the History of Han ( Han Shu ) believed to have been completed in the late 1 st century CE. References there are made to the Land of Wa (The Land Of Dwarves) and its hundred kingdoms, all of which paid tribute China at that time. A later Chinese chronicle relates the story of the most powerful of the kingdoms in Wa , Yamatikoku and its ruler Himiko. This particular queen is shrouded in mystery and speculation. Some believe she gained power by extended warfare then maintain control by bewitching her subjects. The Chinese histories clearly indicate that Himiko’s city held sway over the entire land of Wa during her reign with continual gifts from the Chinese emperor and from other kingdoms. The location of Yamatikoku is still disputed but the majority of scholars place it within the Nara Basin region at the site of Yamato, later to become the centre of the first Japanese state.

When compared to the lengthy time span of the preceding Jomon Period, the Yayoi era is but an epoch of several hundred years, yet it was from within age of immigration that Japan moved from prehistory. Japan had moved from stone to metal tools and from gathering to organised cultivation with large permanent settlements, setting the stage for unification as state.

The Kofun Period (c. 250 – 710CE) – The Early Japanese State

When Queen Himiko died we are told she was buried along with one hundred of her servants so not only did her tomb need to accommodate these slaves but also other tributes. The stratified society now in place also meant that in the construction of her final resting place planning required a lasting symbol of her status and power, not unlike the ideas underlying the pyramids of Egypt. The notion of a need for imposing structures to house dead rulers was to continue for centuries, with the terminology for the period itself, Kofun referring to the raised mounds erected above the deceased. Clay figures, haniwa , excavated by archaeologists around the outside of many of these tombs, are thought to have been used as markers while the increase in grave goods obviously pointed to the status of the interred.

Certainly the Kofun served as a consistent physical representation of power during this era but likely the period’s most significant development is the formation of Yamato state centered around Yamato in Nara prefecture. The first historical books of Japan, mentioned previously, Nihon Shoki and Kojiki , feature Yamato as central to the early state with lists of emperors supplied. It seems that the early rulers, rather than by the use of force of arms were able to incorporate surrounding kingdoms into the Yamato system of administration by negotiation. Absolute dating cannot be ascertained from the Japanese chronicles but rather a progressive expansion with archaeologists suggesting that the imperial line of Yamato emerged as sole ruler in the early sixth century.

Buddhism was introduced into the Yamato state in the mid-sixth century with the development of a state religion seen as a way of extending political control. Therefore, by the reign of Emperor Yomei (585-587CE), the imperial family had adopted the religion. In doing so this outwardly gave the new state a certain degree of style and dignity, and by the promotion of particular Chinese cultural practices further cultivated this image. Yomei’s son, Shotoku Taishi continued this tradition of emulating China building many temples as well as drawing up a set of rules or guidelines for officials within the kingdom. The Constitution of Seventeen Articles formulated in 604 was heavily influenced by Chinese ideas with an obvious emphasis on Confucian harmony ( wa ) and recognition of the imperial line.

Subsequent rulers of the period undertook other reforms including the nationalisation of land holdings, the restructuring of the taxation system and the establishment of a new capital at Naniwa (present day Osaka). Laws were enacted accentuating the central power-base and the authority of the ruler as well as an official bureaucracy to control a growing but fluctuating population. Japan as an island was badly impacted by epidemic disease owing to low immunity levels. Continuous contact with the continent exacerbated the mortality rate at various times meaning that population numbers varied greatly.

As can be seen, the Kofun Period provided for the development of many of the necessary factors for the birth of a unified state, a nation, all of which were in place by the conclusion of the era. In fact the modern name of Japan, Nihon or Nippon (Source of the Sun), was being used in many of the documents of the time. And it was Emperor Temmu who pushed through the recording of the stories that clearly bestowed a legitimacy on the imperial line by establishing a linage that in its appearance possessed a divine heritage.

The Nara Period (710-794)

The founding of the new capital of Naniwa (Osaka) towards the end of Kofun by the Yamato state for one reason or another failed to last. Then in 710 the capital was moved yet again in an attempt to provide a central nucleus from which control could be administered. Heijo or Nara was chosen, with the new city designed based on a regular grid pattern, an idea drawn directly from China. Nara served as the capital for less than one hundred years but in that time the impact of political and legal reforms, in essence built on a Chinese base, became clear. Even the fact that the introduction of Chinese writing encouraged the first history books of Japan, Nihon Shoki and Kojiki , to be put together shows that Chinese influence was strongly felt on the island nation at this time. Todaiji temple, the largest building made of wood in the world, and its huge bronze Buddha is yet another example of the extent to which China proved to be the source Japan turned to for not only knowledge but also cultural practices suitably adapted.

Unfortunately, even with all the successes and progress seen within the imperial circles, outside with the general populace the situation did not appear to have been as comfortable. Documents show that the ordinary people suffered often from hunger and laboured under a heavy tax burden. Consider the taxation required by Emperor Shomu and his commissioning of not only Todaiji but also temples for every province. Peasants, comprising approximately 95% of the population suffered most from taxes levied, with wealthier private estates gaining an ever-increasing separation from the controls of the imperial authority. These factors would have contributed further to the power of a centralized government.

The Heian Period (794-1185)

In 781, Emperor Kammu came to the throne and for reasons that remain unclear he decided to once again move the Japanese capital. It took just over a decade for a final decision to be made on the location of the new city but in 794, again following the grid pattern Heian present-day Kyoto became the new capital. Fortunately, and unlike the short-lived Nara capital, Heian remained the official centre for more than one thousand years. Here in Kyoto, the imperial palace and court reached the pinnacle in artistry, in refinement and in its imperial protocols. The court produced what some believe to be the finest early literature, with the world’s very first novel written by Murasaki Shikibu an example of this. Her novel, the Tale of Genji ( Genji Monogatari ) tells of a life dedicated to pastimes and pursuits far removed from anything resembling matters of government, cloistered into something of a fantasy world behind palace walls. As the central government continued to flitter away its control another group emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the real world, the samurai,a warrior class from the provinces.

With the loss of control by the government, there was also a change in attitude to China, up until now seen as the font of knowledge and refinement. Many of the Chinese cultural practices were now shunned allowing a more Japanese identity to materialise and take shape. The Japanese kana script evolved from the Chinese script, with a more distinctive style of painting, writing and even aesthetic values, all eschewing those of the early Chinese-influenced periods.

The decline in power of the court was caused by a number of factors but likely the most devastating was an increase in private ownership of land, strangely left exempt from taxation. This created a situation where powerful families became more powerful with court-appointed officials whose job it was to oversee the provinces taking the opportunity to consolidate their position. Gathering as an armed force, with members often themselves from aristocratic families, the samurai became increasingly influential and powerful throughout the provinces.

Over the next century rival provincial groups vied violently for control of the weakened court and its government. One such clash was between the Minamoto and Taira groups with the latter emerging victorious. Kiyomori of the Taira group was then able to establish a strong power base in the capital, resisting a number of attempts at overthrow but finally being ousted by supporters of Minamoto in 1183.

The final years of the Heian period were wrought with not only the ravages of war but also a number of major natural disasters vividly related in a work written by the priest Kamo no Chomei . In his book produced in 1212, he describes a devastating typhoon in 1180, a series of floods and huge fires and then in 1184 an earthquake that brought desolation to the capital and its people. Militarily, Minamoto no Yoritomo dominated the scene introducing changes to usher in a new age in Japan.

The Kamakura Period (1185-1333)

Minamoto no Yoritomo, now an extremely powerful figure made plans that would surprise many. Rather than take the throne for himself and then allow his descendents to assume the position after his death, he petitioned the court to provide legitimacy to his authority. He requested this be accomplished by bestowing upon him the title of tai-shogun (great general). The court agreed and in 1192 Yoritomo became shogun, in essence the military branch for the imperial court and government. The new organisation came together mixing some of the older institutions under fresh guidance and control. The term bakufu that actually translates as battlefield or tent headquarters, appeared as an apt way to refer to the government with ruling power in the hands of the shogunate. Kyoto remained as the capital allowing the court to stay in place that likely added further legitimacy to the arrangements now in place.

Although many speak of the Kamakura Period as the era of the warrior state, recent evidence and research point more towards cooperation between the court and the shogun in administering the more bureaucratic goings on. Meanwhile, as Yoritomo had gifted estates and positions of office to those people loyal to him, the provinces fell under their control with taxes or dues collected to be funneled back to the shogunante. Organised along the lines of a feudal system like much of the medieval world, this arrangement allowed the new shogun to exert his power over much of Japan.

A great deal of political intrigue at this time stemmed from Yoritomo’s innate suspicions of even those close to him. His half-brother Yoshitsune did not escape the shogun’s fears and was finally forced to commit suicide along with his wife and young children. Over time, more of Yoritomo’s relatives met a similar fate but such drastic measures surely created animosity, to say the least, between the shogun and those around him. A fall from a horse less than a decade into his rule ended his life, with mystery still surrounding the circumstances of his death. Leaving only a very immature heir, the shogunate and in turn the government was under the control of Yoshitomo’s widow, Hojo Masako. As can be assumed the intrigues and struggles continued with the uncertainties plaguing the government further complicated by the external threat of invasion by the Mongol Empire.

Kublai Khan, the grandson of Genghis, turned his attention to Japan after having subjugated much of the rest of Asia. Strangely, at first, neither the shogunate nor the court showed undue concern but some preparations were put in place for an expected attack. The naval force that came ashore in late 1274 at Hakata in north west Kyushu comprised close to 900 ships and 40,000 soldiers. Fortunately for the minimal Japanese defense a violent storm decimated the Mongols forcing them to withdraw. A second attempt at invasion was launched seven years later with a much larger force with at least 4,400 warships. The Japanese were far better organised this time holding back the much larger Mongol force.

Reinforcements were brought over from China to renew the Mongol effort but once again a severe storm descended upon the coast wiping out most of the Khan’s fleet and with it any chance of entering Japan. From that time, these winds whipped to gale force intensity became known as kamikaze – divine wind, a term best known for the suicide pilots of World War Two.

When the Emperor Go-Daigo came to the throne in 1318, he felt it was necessary to have the power once more in the hands of the imperial family. After a number of failed attempts to challenge the control of the shogunate, in 1333, he joined with the traitor general Ashikaga Takauji to attack the administration in Kyoto. Some weeks later another rebellious general, Nitta Yoshisada, was able to destroy the base of the shogunate bringing to an end the Kamakura Period.

The Muromachi Period (1333-1568)

With their successful return to Kyoto, Go-Daigo and Ashikaga Takauji, soon disagreed on the distribution of power. The former wanted total control to rest with the imperial family while the later wanted to assume the coveted title of shogun. Pitched battles between the two took place soon after, with Takauji emerging as the victor. His newly chosen Emperor fulfilled his wish to be elevated to shogun.

As was to be expected in such a heated political environment disputes continued between the court and the shogunate and even within the shogunate itself. In fact, Takauji had his own brother, Tadayoshi murdered. The effectual power of the shogun’s office steadily declined with powerful families extending their control of the provinces. It was not until Takauji’s grandson Yoshimitsu came to the position that he ‘forced’ many of the problematic family leaders to return to Kyoto to take up positions in the court. This allowed the shogun to keep a watchful eye over them and in effect greatly limited their influence. Yoshimitsu also reignited relations with the Chinese Emperor and his famous Golden Pavilion in Kyoto ( Kinkauji ) echoes the opulent palaces of the olden times.

The renewed strengthening of the shogun’s position was short-lived and after Yoshimitsu’s death more problems arose, with orders from the shogunate often being ignored by the court. The provincial families and their estates expanded but in doing so they came into conflict, with alliances quickly made and just as quickly broken. In one such conflict, the Onin Civil War in 1467 much of Kyoto was destroyed with the shogunate powerless to put a stop to civil unrest. Over the next century civil strife and turmoil was almost continual with this time becoming known as the Warring States ( Sengoku ) era.

It was during the tumultuous times of the Warring States era westerners first arrived in Japan. Three Portuguese traders landed on a small island near southern Kyushu in 1543 bringing with them muskets that the Japanese were soon able to copy and manufacture. Muskets were soon used by a number of the leaders in the conflicts. These traders who had been blown off course en route to China also introduced the first notions of Christianity into Japan. There appears no evidence as to how long the visitors spent ashore in a land riven with civil strife, without any apparent form of strong central government and completely fragmented.

The Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1568-1600)

Japan at the close of Sengoku era was a land of separate states hanging together by very weak threads. In such a condition the country could be easily exploited by a better organised invader but fortunately three astute military leaders put Japan on the road to unification; Oda Nobunaga (1534-82), Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1536-98 and Tokugawa Ieyasu (1542-1616).

Nobunaga was a Daimyo , something akin to a feudal lord, from Owari Province in the area of present-day Aichi Prefecture. During the clashes between rival estates, he was able to gain considerable power and control. Supporting Ashikaga Yoshiaki, Nobunaga was able to snatch Kyoto in 1568. Yoshiaki was then installed as shogun although the real power remained in the warlord’s hands. Some five years later Nobunaga expelled the shogun from Kyoto.

Nobunaga proved himself to be an unusual figure in the history of Japan, not so much for his unrivalled cruelty to his enemies, family and opponents but his complete disdain of a need to possess any degree of legitimacy within the overall scheme. He never pursued the title of shogun, some would say because of his inflated ego. However, even though his brutality remains prominent, his cultural reforms and building projects form part of his legacy. His stated aim to unify Japan under military rule was well underway when in 1582 after a dispute with one of his officers, Akechi Mitsuhide, he died in a fire at the temple of Honnoji in Kyoto. His retainer Toyotomi Hideyoshi continued on with Nobunaga’s plans.

Hideyoshi appears as one of the most popular figures from this period as he rose from the position of footsoldier through to that of general under Nobunaga, then onto occupy the most powerful position in Japan. After the death of his lord, Hideyoshi defeated Akechi. Then through battle and crucial alliances he further expanded his circle of influence. His strategy of allowing his loyal supporters control of particular regions, as well as taking hostage family members of disruptive daimyos, helped dissipate much of the opposition towards him. In 1588 in an episode known as the Katanagari , he set about removing the threat of uprising at a grassroots level by confiscating weapons throughout the countryside.

While continuing the survey of lands initiated by Nobunaga, he also undertook a census of the entire population and brought under control the breakaway northern provinces. This meant that Hideyoshi was able to complete the unification of the entire country, although consolidation under one government was only partially achieved.

As with so many of his predecessors, Hideyoshi felt that he was constantly under threat from not only those further afield but even within his close family. Perhaps based on these fears, he was, at first, quite tolerant of the fledgling religion of Christianity probably because it suited his struggles with Buddhist priests, but he then ultimately censured Christians in his Edict of Expulsion of 1587. With the arrival of Franciscans he became almost fanatical suspecting new Christian arrivals as the spearhead of a possible invasion. This culminated in 1597 with the crucifixion of twenty-six Christians in Nagasaki. Hideyoshi died soon after this incident from an unidentified illness.

Prior to his death, likely to maintain an element of continuity of his line, Hideyoshi founded a council consisting five chosen feudal lords, daimyos. One of the Five Great Elders was Tokugawa Ieyasu. When Hideyoshi died, as was to be expected, a struggle ensued over who would be his successor. The problem was settled in 1600 by force of arms with Ieyasu leading is supporters in the Battle of Sekigahara to victory.

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The Tokugawa Period (1600-1868)

After his victory at Sekigahara, Tokugawa Ieyasu’s main goal was to make certain that control remained with the Tokugawa. Sometime before Hideyoshi’s death, Ieaysu had made an unsuccessful move on his lord’s authority, but this fortunately resulted in an alliance. Ieyasu was provided with territory recently usurped from rivals. In choosing his base within these newly awarded lands, Ieyasu opted for a small centrally located fishing village, Edo, now the city of Tokyo. Here, after further expanding his power, he built Edo Castle that later served as the foundations for the present Imperial Palace.

Unlike Nobunaga or Hideyoshi, Ieyasu accepted the title of shogun from the then Emperor Go-Yozei. His position though now legitimized in the eyes of the court, he was still under threat from the son of Hideyoshi who had been previously promised the title and the power. Hideyoshi’s son, Hideyori had firmly established a base in the well-defended Osaka castle. It took Ieyasu a number of years to finally eliminate this menace, when in 1615 he was able to force Hideyori to commit suicide. To ensure annihilation of any challenge he then also executed Hideyori’s seven-year-old son Kunimatsu.

Once this was accomplished Ieyasu set up a series of new laws to enforce stability and control within military affairs. In essence, these dictated that any changes that could level influence on the status quo must be subject to shogunate approval. This even included marriages of the daimyo and the mobility of particular people. Ieyasu though did not live long enough to see the full effect of these new controls as he died of sickness soon after in 1616. His son Hidetada continued his policies as did most of the Tokugawa successors.

Hideyoshi Toyotomi’s earlier policy of eliminating any class mobility was further defined making this into a formal system based on a strict hierarchy. The Warrior-peasant-artisan-merchant arrangement, the shi-no-ko-sho structure was to be enforced. Priests, nuns and nobles of the court were not included in this scheme while within each class a number of sub-categories were in place, this being especially relevant to the Samuari or warrior class. Two more groups existed outside of the four-tiered class system, with these sub-groups shunned as outcasts. The eta (the filth) and the hinin (non-people) were those whose occupations dealt with the ‘unclean’ activities such as butchering, dealing with the dead and working with leather. The eta , the present-day burakumin or village people are ostensibly still shunned in much of the Japanese mainstream society. In most cases, class was determined by birth making any upward movement close to impossible. One of the most distinct divisions though was between the Samurai, at roughly six percent of the population, and the non-warrior.

Other measures enacted by the Tokugawa to limit any instability or threat included a wide-ranging series of restrictions, with any infringement usually met with harsh punishment. By the destruction of most bridges in regions, people were directed through checkpoints where their documents could be checked. A blanket curfew was put in place while a secret police force was organised to report on any suspicious activity or possible insurrection. Petty theft was punishable by death as was causing a house fire, the latter in view of most houses being made from wood. The notion of collective responsibility also saw the execution of families or, at times, even entire communities. The possibility of collective punishment brought about mistrust and suspicion of strangers, something that contributed to the later isolationist ideals.

Westerners arriving into Japan created one of the major problems, and those who preached their Christianity especially so. The idea that this god of the Christians would not accept compromise presented not so much a religious dilemma for the shogunate but a direct political challenge to their power. Because of this, persecution greatly intensified during the early part of the 1600s, culminating in 1638 with the Shimabara Massacre where forces dispatched by the shogunate killed and estimated 35,000. Although the campaign to Nagasaki began to halt a rebellion over taxation, it soon encompassed the murder of men, women and children, the greater majority Christian. By the following year, most westerners had either been expelled from Japan or left of their own choice. A small enclave of Dutch traders was permitted to remain on an island in Nagasaki Harbour. Formal trade was now limited to China and Korea meaning that Japan closed itself off from the rest of the known world.

Some scholars believe that the coming of Westerners had planted the seed for a sense of nationalism, with reunification fostering further growth of this ideal. Hokkaido and the Ryukyu Islands (Okinawa) were also incorporated into Japan during the Tokugawa establishing the boundaries for the nation similar to those of today.

During the next century, people began to doubt that the shogunate was the best-suited form of government. At this time, there a renewed interest in the Shinto religion as contemporary scholars examined old texts such as Kojiki (712). The combination of Shinto and texts associated with old Japan and its beliefs came to represent pure Japanese values removed from being ‘too Chinese’. This revival was likely a continuation of the emerging national consciousness.

By the end of the 18 th century Edo (Tokyo), with a population of well over a million people had become the largest city in the world. Kyoto and Osaka had also continued to grow and expand, each with populations in the vicinity of at least half a million. Although restrictions on travel were still in place people gravitated to the larger centres in search of a better life. In the towns, rather than the static sedate ways preferred by the shogunate and the court, a more dynamic culture seemed to be developing due in most part to the influx of new residents and the economic stimulus they added. New forms of entertainment appeared moving away from the more restrained styles of the nobles. Haiku and its short meaningful lines, along with the woodblock prints, ukiyo-e (impressions of the floating world), their vibrant colours and their often sexually explicit content become most sought after.

The age of Edo was an awakening that greatly alarmed the shogunate and its control. Sexuality was seen to form a centerpiece of this movement with the shogunate banning female kabuki actresses, believing it may be able to suppress something of this revolution. This era was also the time of the geisha who entertained in a number of ways including the selling of their bodies. In an effort to exert some regulation over this, ‘pleasure districts’ were founded in the major cities, such as Gion in Kyoto and Yoshiwara in Edo (Tokyo).

In marked contrast to the prosperity apparent in the towns, the peasants in the countryside did not often fare as well. Famine and the seasonal failure of crops teamed with a heavy tax burden in certain areas saw the gap between the affluent and the poor increasing. The introduction of the move valuable crops such as sugar and tobacco supplanting those of rice contributed a worsening situation. Having said this, in overall terms, it appears that living conditions did improve during this period as a direct result of an expanding economy.

The rapidly improving economy led the way to something that the shogunate had not really expected. The merchant class, sitting at the very bottom of the enforced status structure became far wealthier than those at the top who continued to amass debt. As a matter of course, money began to buy privilege with the Tokugawa system, once so inflexible, showing signs of unwanted flexibility and stress.

The Fall of the Shogunate

For almost two hundred years Japan had been able to virtually isolate itself from the surrounding and encroaching world. A number of unplanned visits of foreigners had occurred of course but these ended in either expulsion or execution. The close of the 18 th century and the first decade of the 19 th century saw a concerted effort by nations such as Russia, Britain and America to establish relations with the island nation. These ended in failure. America renewed its endeavors in the middle of the century but Japan had witnessed problems in other parts of Asia such as the Opium Wars and would not relent. Ardent nationalists aided the cause, with any discussion of allowing western influence to return to Japan met with violent opposition. Many of the common people believed that the shogunate was no longer able to control the situation and support began to shift back towards the Emperor and the imperial line. The samurai, due to their involvement with official administration felt their role dwindling and losing respect.

In the summer of 1853 Commodore Matthew Perry steamed into Tokyo Harbour with a series of demands and a letter from the American President Millard Fillmore seeking to break the seclusion policies of Japan:

GREAT and Good Friend: I send you this public letter by Commodore Matthew C. Perry, an officer of the highest rank in the navy of the United States, and commander of the squadron now visiting your imperial majesty’s dominions.

I have directed Commodore Perry to assure your imperial majesty that I entertain the kindest feelings towards your majesty’s person and government, and that I have no other object in sending him to Japan but to propose to your imperial majesty that the United States and Japan should live in friendship and have commercial intercourse with each other.

(an excerpt from Fillmore’s letter 13/11/1852)

Commodore Perry stayed in port for ten days, before withdrawing to the Chinese coast with his ships to wait for the demands to be considered. As he had promised, however, half a year later he returned with a far larger fleet and over a hundred cannons mounted and ready to use. The Tokugawa shogunate capitulated giving in to all the American demands. The Treaty of Kanagawa was signed in March 1854 with the first US consul, Townsend Harris arriving to his post some two years later. The gates were now opened and a series of treaties with other nations followed in quick succession.

‘Outsiders’ began to arrive in ever increasing numbers and many did not appreciate the social or cultural ‘niceties’ of their recently opened host nation. Nationalists especially those among the samurai reacted swiftly and often with violence as they believed the shogunate was now completely ineffectual in dealing with this ‘invasion’. Hatred and resentment towards the shogunate grew, and in July 1863 nationalists attacked British and American vessels in the Shiminoseki Strait. The foreigners fought back destroying much of the opposition force. Feeling that they should also make a show of power against these rebels, the shogunate also sent forces against the leader, Choshu. Supported by samurai and a militia built up from the peasants of the region Choshu was well able to make a successful stand against the shogunate, in fact, the first such victorious and defiant act against the ruling power.

A new shogun, Yoshinobu, came to power in January of 1867. Realising if he did not act his position and power would be quickly subsumed, he put forward plans to restructure the court and the shogunate. Rather than just sit back and allow a reformed shogunate to continue in power, Leaders of Choshu and Satsuma (another vocal opponent), with assistance from a court aristocrat were able to have an imperial decree delivered that finally abolished the shogunate.

This imperial authority allowed them to occupy the court in what was called a restoration of imperial power. The fifteen-year old Emperor Mutsuhito, who had come to the throne after the suspicious death of his father Komei, was now in charge so to speak. When Mutsuhito died in 1912 his government became known as Meiji (rule by the enlightened) and the reinstatement of his position as the Meiji Restoration heralding the end of the rule and age of the shoguns.

The Meiji Period (1868-1912)

It would be difficult for any fifteen-year old no matter how enlightened to undertake the ruling of a nation such as Japan without advisors. The majority of his ‘team’ were samurai from the Choshu and Satsuma domains with some from other areas such as Hizen (Kyushu) and Tosa (Shikoku). Many of these advisors’ names feature prominently in this period.

As with any establishment of a new regime, its legitimacy must be recognised and its power strengthened. The upheavals of the recent past were fresh in the minds of the population and the public longed for signs of a restoration, not some much of the imperial rule but of stability and hope. The last pockets of resistance, those loyal to the shogunate were quickly and effectively mopped up while assurance for future security was provided for with the issue of the Charter of Five Articles . Interestingly, the final article spoke of ‘the seeking of world knowledge to strengthen the country’, which, rather than directly opposing foreign influence, implied gaining advantage from any such interaction.

Also in taking steps to consolidate and centralise the power base, the new government decided that one capital city was of more advantage than the two, Kyoto and Tokyo (Edo) that previously operated. Edo was chosen as the seat of government as moves were made to nationalise all land. The feudal lords returned their estates and holdings, with generous financial considerations given, to the government. These lands were then reorganised into prefectures, completing this by 1871 when they legally outlawed possession by the daimyo. Meanwhile monetary reforms were set in motion with a new mint built along with the introduction of a currency system, decimally-based on the yen.

The four-tiered class system was also restructured so as to have only three levels, the nobles ( kazoku ), the samurai ( shizoku ) and the commoners ( heimin ). Officially the outcast classes of the eta and hinin were now on an equal footing but the discrimination proved to be so firmly entrenched that even today in some areas of Japan, the effects are still noticeable. It was also at this time that commoners were permitted to adopt family names or surnames.

Soon after, the samurai were stopped from carrying their weapons in public, a source of great discontent for this former warrior group. The Satsuma Rebellion of 1877 led by Saigo Takamori was an armed conflict against pro-government forces. After years of foment Saigo assembled over 40,000 men and fought a series of battles across Kyushu. In a major battle at Kumamoto they once more went against the Emperor’s army. His force destroyed, Saigo was left with only a small group. Their final stand was at Shiroyama in Kagoshima. Rather than suffer the humiliation of capture he committed suicide. Tom Cruise’s epic movie The Last Samurai is loosely based about this, the final appearance in the field of samurai warriors.

A More Western Society

With the fall of the samurai most within the government were in complete agreement that if Japan was to move forward it needed to modernise, in essence to westernise. Treaties signed during the death throes of the shogunate were seen, and rightfully so, as one-sided and Japan needed to become involved on the world scene as an equal if it were to be taken seriously. Western-style institutions and cultural practices were now felt to be a necessary addition to the Japanese way of life in all areas.

Some of the first changes were sweeping and confusing. Imagine the way you kept note of the simple passing of time being completely overhauled. In place of the lunar calendar, the introduction of the Gregorian (solar) system meant dates appeared to jump ahead a matter of weeks. Newspapers became more widespread in circulation while particular styles of western clothing became not only acceptable but also popular. New restaurants were rapidly opened to provide for the introduction of eating beef. One of the best known Japanese dishes, sukiyaki , originates from this early trend.

Perhaps one of the greatest indicators of modernisation was the opening of Japan’s first railway and its impact on the economy. People and products could now be moved quickly from place to place and city to city. Instead of a two-week walk from Kyoto to Edo, passengers could complete the journey in less than a day and for almost one third of the cost. Other transport systems such a steamships and coaches rapidly expanded their services allowing the basic infrastructure of the nation to move ahead.

The Meiji Period was an age of great innovation and improvement with the government realising that if they did not take appropriate steps with their nation in its modern infancy they may well lose control. Nationalism was promoted as not only an ideal but also as the goal for the entire population. Education had become almost universal which provided a platform for controlling and channelling aims, values and beliefs. School texts were now chosen based around a strict set of policies which saw the insertion of more nationalist content along with an obvious Shinto base. Many would say that the content fell along the lines of the first texts of the Japanese, Kojiki and Nihon Shoki with the emphasis placed on the Imperial line and its ‘divine’ origins.

Outwardly the government appeared as democratic but strict censure limited assemblies or public meetings placing restriction on the freedom of speech while the right to vote was also constrained by undemocratic measures. There was, at this stage, no formal constitution. Ito Hirobumi, one of the initial advisors to the Meiji emperor, and now holding the position as Prime Minister, felt it necessary to right this situation, travelling to Europe to examine the organisation and content of other constitutions. February 11 th 1889 was chosen as the date to promulgate the nation’s constitution. The particular date came from Nihon Shoki where it is given as the founding of the original Japanese state, a reworking into the modern myths of Japan. The constitution appeared to allocate absolute power to the Emperor although in reality he could not make any decision without the support and agreement of a minister.

Politics and ‘Gunboat Diplomacy’

The following years saw various methods used to force particular polices, with democracy taking a back seat to the more authoritarian hand. As is often used as a tactic, the government shifted its focus to draw attention away from the internal strife. Although no longer a pressing concern, the invasion and colonisation of Japan was put forward again as a possibility. The expansion on the Asian mainland by particular powers acted to bolster this fear. In addition there had been a great deal of tension between Japan and China over the issue of Korea.

When, in 1894, the Korean king asked for helped to suppress a large religiously-based rebellion both China and Japan sent along military aid in the form of troops. Once the problem had been dealt with neither China or Japan would withdraw their forces. The sinking of a Chinese troop carrier by the Japanese was followed by a formal declaration of war, the beginning of the Sino-Japanese War. Japan proved to be superior in every aspect with Chinese land and sea forces soundly defeated. The Treaty of Shimonoseki signed in the spring of 1894 weighed heavily on Chinese interests forcing them to give up territory in Korea, Taiwan and Manchuria.

Japan’s move towards empire was off to a very solid start. Disappointingly, the area on the Liaotung Peninsula (Manchuria), ceded by the treaty, caused disputes with Russia, France and Germany citing likely future instability. To maintain relations, the Japanese government agreed to surrender this newly acquired territory much to the disgust of the Japanese public. The outcome of this was that the bid for political stability at home by expansion failed miserably, throwing the politics of Japan into complete disarray, with parties and members changing sides without apparent reason or motivation.

Soon after Japan relinquished their control over the Manchurian peninsula, Russia continued their expansion into Asia. In 1900 Russia stepped in, along with other nations to help put down the anti-foreign Boxer Rebellion in China but decided to leave its troops in position even after the rebellion had been successfully squashed. War with Russia was beginning to appear unavoidable but opinions differed greatly in the Japanese Diet. In 1902, one party was able to secure the Anglo-Japanese Alliance. Now although this did not mean Britain would fight with Japan against Russia, it did provide a certain assurance that other of the western powers would intervene should Japan go to war.

Diplomatic relations were severed in February 1904 with Japanese naval forces attacking Russian ships in Port Arthur. Landing troops in Korea, the Japanese army advanced into Manchuria to lay siege to the port. There were heavy casualties on both sides but finally Japanese forces took Mukden, the capital of Manchuria in March 1905. A Russian fleet bringing reinforcements was met and destroyed in the Tsushima Straits by the Japanese Admiral, Togo Heihachiro. The defeat forced Russia to the negotiating table with the US President Theodore Roosevelt acting as mediator.

Very soon after the Portsmouth Treaty, signed in September 1905, Japan moved to establish control over Korea making it something like a protectorate with Hirobumi Ito as the general in residence. All Korean officials were replaced and the Korean military forced to disband. Ito was assassinated while there, in 1909, and the following year Japan annexed the Korean nation without any apparent international antagonism.

At home, the political situation had not quietened with martial law needing to be instated. Prime Minister Katsura was forced to resign, replaced by an aristocrat from the imperial court, Prince Saionji Kinmochi. Saionji was able to maintain a relative stability in the politics of the nation that stayed in place for the remainder of the Meiji Era. Even when Katsura later returned to office, outwardly there appeared a general control albeit overtly authoritarian.

Emperor Mutsuhito passed away from illness in July 1912 bringing the Meiji Era to a close. Throughout his reign there had been wars and great uncertainty but Japan modernised and entered upon the world stage. Yet even with this move towards being recognised as one of the world’s major powers during this period, there is always noticeable reference back to Japan’s past and its values and traditions.

The Taisho Era (1912-1926)

The Emperor Yoshihito assumed the throne upon his father’s death, with Japan in a strong position in most regards. Thought suitable for Japan at the time the name Taisho was selected as the name of the new era. Meaning ‘Great Righteousness’, it was thought fitting to herald a time for Japan of confidence and a sense of continued permanence. Unfortunately, the Emperor’s health was not up to the task as he suffered from some unidentified or perhaps rather a not ‘to be made public’ disorder. In his mid-thirties when he took up the imperial role, his condition gradually deteriorated to a point where even walking and speaking were tasks in themselves. The situation could not continue so in 1921 his son Hirohito took over the reins, but only as regent.

When the era began with Yoshihito, a political crisis occurred when the Saionji cabinet refused to allow further military expansion. This brought about the collapse of his cabinet with Katsura Taro being asked to take up the position for his third term. Katsura, unpopular with the general public, had no real interest in the party politics that had developed during the closing years of the Meiji Era. A vote of no confidence was put forward as angry demonstrations were staged outside the Diet building. After less than two months in his position Katsura was forced to resign. A series of Prime Ministers followed in quick succession allowing party representation to be strengthened over time. First came Yamamoto Gonbei, seen as politically neutral, next Okuma Shigenobu, unduly influenced by powerful men around him, and then Terauchi Masatake who strongly disapproved of party politics.

In 1918, Hara Takashi came to the position due to his samurai descent and being very well connected. Supportive of the basic premises underlying a party cabinet he appeared to the public as a representative of their voice in government. With Hara’s assassination in 1921 a number of successive non-party cabinets came to power. As with the Meiji Era, the politics of Taisho followed similar patterns with more liberal and democratic ideals floated but generally kept in check.

Without a doubt, the worst event to strike Japan of the Taisho Era came in September 1923 with the Great Tokyo earthquake. More than 100,000 people lost their lives with upwards of three million left homeless and destitute. Martial law was declared almost immediately but this did not halt particular groups taking the opportunity to act on real or imagined grievances. Not only was anti-Korean sentiment rampant with over 6000 Koreans murdered but also the military and the police eliminated pockets of presumed opposition without fear of reprisal or justice.

On the international front, World War One had recently finished. And Japan as an ally of Britain took an active part in the Versailles Peace Conference (1919). Japan had not been actively involved to any great extent in the war although they did assist Britain to take a German naval base in Tsintao China. In the aftermath, Japanese territorial expansion was actioned, with much of the German controlled areas of the Shandong Peninsula in China and previously German-owned Pacific islands taken over.

Japan served as one of the founding members of the League of Nations in 1920 while also taking part in the Washington Conference at the conclusion of the following year. Their participation in both these decision-making forums that would impact the future of the world and its nations left Japan shocked and angry. Their requests for a clause on racial equality to be included was bluntly refused. Apparently one of the most vociferous opponents to this at the time was Australia with its White Australia Policy well and truly in operation. Japan came to believe that as a major power in a west-dominated world, there would never be true equality.

The Showa Era (1926 – ) The Political Groundwork for War

In late December 1926 the Emperor died with Hirohito now moving up to fulfill the position. Hirohito and his Showa (Illustrious Peace) reign were beset from the very beginning by both domestic and international upheavals. Well-travelled and educated, he was planning to organize his rule along the lines of his definition of a constitutional monarchy. Unfortunately, he believed himself as directly descendent from the divine and at all times separated himself from his lowly subjects remaining poorly informed of the word and the feel on the street.

Although World War One had greatly boosted Japan’s production economy, the ‘war prices’ soon began to fall drastically. Construction experienced a brief revival in the aftermath of the 1923 earthquake but as the result of the financial crisis a great percentage of Japanese banks failed in 1927. The rural sector, along with one of Japan’s most profitable exports, silk, also witnessed an utter collapse in price. Disparity between the living standards of different levels of society in both rural and urban Japan grew, with the widespread conviction that big business controlled the politics of the nation. The public and the military became further disillusioned and contemptuous of the perceived lack of interest by the government. Many pointed to the western practices and organisation seen in many Japanese institutions as the root cause of each and every woe.

As problems mounted domestically, military leaders called for a solution in the form of aggressive military expansion, the first target being China. Covert action by the Japanese military hoped to motivate further action but the truth was revealed. Hirohito forced the then Prime Minister Tanaka Giichi to resign over his soft attitude to the instigators of the Chinese incident, with Hamaguchi Osachi stepping into his place.

Hamaguchi attended the London naval Conference of 1930 hoping for terms that would remove present limitations on Japan’s fleet and naval capabilities. He was unable to negotiate any better position and that was met with great public disapproval at home. The Prime Minister was assassinated soon after his return with Japan then withdrawing from any international agreements that placed restrictions on their military expansion. By the time of the Manchurian Incident in September 1931, where similar covert action hoped to direct blame on China, a more moderate approach failed. Swift military intervention followed with the Prime Minister Wakatsuki Reijiro left powerless to act. Wakatsuki relinquished his post soon after with his successor Inukai Tsuyoshi stepping up to try to bring the military back into line. Far right naval officers attacked and killed Inukai less than three months into his position.

The Japanese military involvement in Manchuria initiated the establishment of Manshukoku , the Republic of Manchuria later to be renamed as the Empire of Manchukuo. China’s famous ‘last emperor’, Puyi was installed as the puppet ruler. With condemnation of the occupation by the League of Nations, Japan promptly rescinded its membership. Domestically there was little in the way of regulations to keep the military in any sort of check. Hirohito, in his cloistered world proved no obstacle for the ever-expanding power of the military. Japan was rife with assassinations and attempted coups as different groups struggled for control. Perhaps the Illustrious Peace was not an apt choice for the name of the era.

The Lead-Up to War

Interestingly, the Japanese economy of the 1930s had taken a decidedly upward turn with a number of forward-thinking economic policies put in place. Japan was, in fact, the first developed nation to step clear of the Great Depression. Unfortunately, the benefits of the economic boost were not filtering through to the majority of the people. By way of example the huge companies of Mitsui and Mitsubishi controlled close to 15% of all capital in the industrial sector. People’s belief of the government’s involvement with big business increased.

The resources of the mainland now became a focus for increased prosperity with an overtly aggressive approach supported by many. After yet another failed coup at the end of February 1936, a new cabinet was formed with Hirota Koki at the helm. Although only in office for a few months he immediately increased the military budget while pushing for heavy industry to be put on a war footing. It was in November of that same year that Japan entered into a pact with Germany, and later Italy, to limit possible Russian expansion into Asia.

With the Marco Polo Bridge Incident of July 7 th 1937, where Chinese troops allegedly fired upon Japanese soldiers, Japan entered a war with China. The incident escalated quickly with neither side willing to back down or negotiate. The new Japanese Prime Minister Konoe Fumimaro pushed for all out war, with the Chinese under Chiang Kai-shek prepared to give no quarter. As the warfront widened, fighting had reached Shanghai by August, the city falling just three months later. The Japanese army then attacked the city of Nanking that soon collapsed under the onslaught. The Rape of Nanking followed the city’s defeat with the atrocities committed by the Japanese troops likely one of the most infamous in recorded history.

It soon became obvious that the war with China was going to be a very much drawn out affair leaving Japan vulnerable to Soviet aggression and intervention. Further adding the Japanese concerns was the fact that Germany had signed a non-aggression pact with Russia countermanding any agreement made earlier with Japan. Fortunately, the situation for Germany early in the war allowed them to ask Japan to join a pro-Axis treaty along with Italy, the Tripartite Pact (September 1940). The most crucial point of the agreement was that should any of the countries be attacked by a nation not involved in the European war, the others would come to its assistance. For Japan this included the United States. Circumstances seemed to favour further Japanese expansion and its entrance into World War Two.

Odyssey Travellers Japan tours small group package tours are like many of this tour company’s offering around the world, built around history and culture and the visual settings. As well as the history, an appreciation of Japanese cuisine, the traditional tea ceremony, the role of the geisha and presence of ancient temples and more become increasingly understood on this Japan tour.

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Modern Japanese History Tour

Explore recent Japanese military history on this 3-hour guided excursion in Tokyo. Experience the lives of everyday people and soldiers during World War II at Yushukan Shrine , learn about military practices like Kamikaze attacks from an expert guide, and stop by a shrine that commemorates Japan’s 2.5 million victims of war since 1869.

It has been over 70 years since the surrender of Japan, which ended the Second World War. The global war that lasted from 1939 to 1945, was the most widespread war in history, as it involved more than 100 million people from over 30 countries. Many lives were lost during the war, including the 129,000 to 226,000 fatalities that occurred due to the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Tokyo suffered greatly from the war, especially with the B-29 air raids conducted in March 1945. They were regarded as the single most destructive bombing raid in human history, as most of central Tokyo was annihilated (with 1 million people made homeless and an estimated of 100,000 civilian deaths).

In this three-hour small group Modern History Tour, you’ll be guided by an English-speaking guide as you visit the historic landmarks with relics of WWII. At 9 AM, meet with your tour guide at Kudanshita Station (designated meet-up spot will be provided after booking).

Guests will pay a visit to Yasukuni Shrine, which commemorates 2.5 million of Japan’s war dead since 1869. Learn about the history and controversy that surrounds the shrine before heading to Yushukan, the military and war museum dedicated to the souls of soldiers who died fighting for their country.

In this tour, guests will learn how the Japanese commemorate and pay their respects to those who have perished from war, the issues that civilians faced during WWII such as starvation, how Japanese soldiers felt and behaved during the war, learn why kamikaze (also known as tokotai) was so prevalent and how the soldiers told their family members before their inevitable fates.

Highlights:

• Spend a few hours exploring Japan’s modern history of war on a guided tour
• Learn about Japan’s 2.5 million war dead and Kamikaze attacks from an expert
• Visit landmark sites such as the Showa-kan Museum and Yushukan Shrine
• Get a different perspective on Japan with this specialized experience

  Availability: Tuesdays to Sundays from 9 AM to 12 PM

  Location: Kudanshita Station (designated meet-up spot will be provided after booking)

• 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour (Add-on):

The 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour will include an English-speaking guide. This tour will be conducted after the Modern History Tour, from 12 PM to 4 PM. Public transportation costs are included. Admission fee or other optional activity fees for guests and tour guides are not included.

  Included:

• English speaking guide
• Photo opportunities
• Food and drinks
• Souvenirs (available for purchase)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Additional Information

As the shrines in Japan are sacred places, we ask that all guests dress appropriately (no short skirts or shorts, or articles of clothing with an excessive amount of skin exposure). We also recommend smart casual attire with comfortable shoes, as there will be a moderate amount of walking.

Age Requirement

There is no age requirement, but a reservation must be made for all guests, and the cost is the same for all ages.

All bookings are payable via Stripe (Booking Checkout) or Flywire. Confirmations regarding your booking will be sent at least 10 days before your activity date.

Cancellation Policy

Standard Cancellation Policy:

• We will charge a cancellation fee of 100% if booking is cancelled 5 days or less before event
• We will charge a cancellation fee of 50% if booking is cancelled 7 days or less before event
• We will charge a cancellation fee of 25% if booking is cancelled 10 days or less before event ays before your activity date.

What if I’m late?

We ask that all guests arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the designated meet-up time. Since this is a group tour, we may not be able to wait for you if you are late. The tour will begin without the late guests and you can meet the rest of the group at the next location. Guests are provided with the tour guides’ phone number before the tour and you can call the tour guide if you need to meet the group in the next location.

What is the purpose of this tour?

In this tour, guests will learn how the Japanese people commemorate and pay their respects to those who have perished from war, the issues that civilians faced during WWII such as starvation, how Japanese soldiers felt and behaved during the war, learn why kamikaze (also known as tokotai) was so prevalent and how the soldiers told their family members before their inevitable fates.

Will this be a sensitive topic for some people?

While the purpose of this tour is to educate and inform about Modern Japanese history (from over 70 years ago until recent times), it may still be a sensitive topic to some people. We really hope that everyone who comes will keep an open mind and will not put our tour guides in a difficult situation; if the tour guide may feel threatened at any point, please note that the tour may have to end and the tour guide may contact local law enforcement if necessary.

How far in advance should I book?

Preparing a customized tour requires some time, especially if reservations for restaurants or other venues are required. We recommend making a reservation as early as possible. Ideally, it should be 3 months before your travel date, or 1 month before the travel date at the very least. For Custom Tour bookings that are requested with less than 7 days before the travel date, we may not be able to arrange your custom tour in time so your booking request may be cancelled and you will receive a full refund.

Why am I charged a service fee if I make a cancellation after you started planning the trip? 

Organizing and planning a trip requires a lot of time and if we have made reservations on your behalf, it may be very challenging to cancel some booking requests. Once we receive your booking and your answers from the Custom Tour form, we will begin putting together your Itinerary Sheet and will start arranging your tour guide, buying tickets, making reservations at venues for your tour, etc. If you cancel the tour any time after we have sent you the custom Itinerary Sheet, the service fee of 15% of your total tour cost will be nonrefundable

Booking Request

Name (First, Last)

Date of Event

Starting time Wednesday 9 AM to 12 PM Saturday 9 AM to 12 PM

Number of People 1 people 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people 9 people 10 or more people

Package Standard tour Private tour Private tour with add-on 4 Hour Tokyo Tour (Public Trans) Private tour with add-on 4 Hour Tokyo Tour (Private Vehicle)

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• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Historical Tours in Japan

Delve into japan's history: explore iconic sites and hidden gems.

Are you ready to satisfy your wanderlust and ignite your curiosity for the past? These top rated historical and cultural tours to Japan offer a unique blend of exploration, education, and relaxation. With meticulous analysis of a wide array of tours based on service, price, comfort, guest ratings, and activities, we've handpicked the most captivating experiences to help you plan your next trip. From immersive guided tours to off-the-beaten-path excursions, these fantastic and well-planned guided tours are designed to provide a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with lifelong memories and a deeper appreciation for the heritage that has shaped our world.

• Japan Essentials - One Life Adventures 9 Day 9 Days, $1195.91
• Japan One Life Adventures - 14 Days 14 Days, $2857.82
• Japan One Life Adventures - 10 Days 10 Days, $2060.10

What are the historical tour options in Japan?

Here are the important factors:

• 38 trip options analyzed
• $327 average price per day (USD)
• 6 to 16 days in length
• 4.54 of 5 average rating
• 24 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of historical tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.54 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 24 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 6 days, while the longest is 16 days. When it comes to physical activity , tour options are organized as easy and moderate, with a majority being easy tours. For transportation , you'll find tours classified as train & rail and coach / bus, with most of them being train & rail. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 38 historical tours, you can rest assured that Japan has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Historical Tours in Japan

Japan essentials - one life adventures 9 day.

• On Sale: 20% Off See Prices
• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Check out this incredible trip that has received a 4.9 out of 5 rating from previous guests. With a duration of 9 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 22 people, and is good for travelers aged 18 to 45 years old. This itinerary covers 4 captivating destinations, with stops in Hakone and Kyoto, among others. Tokyo marks the starting point, while Osaka stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. This fantastic option, organized by One Life Adventures , presents an unbeatable value at just $106 per day.

• Train & Rail
• Sightseeing

Japan One Life Adventures - 14 Days

Spanning over 14 days, this voyage has a maximum size of 22 individuals. Welcoming travelers aged 18 to 45 years old, it is organized by One Life Adventures , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 9 destinations, featuring Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Koya-san. Beginning in beautiful Tokyo, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Hiroshima. Available at an unbeatable price of only $163 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

Japan One Life Adventures - 10 Days

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional trip that has garnered a 4.8 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 10 days, this jouney will have 22 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers aged 18 to 45 years old. Expertly organized by One Life Adventures , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $165 per day.

Epic Japan: Speed Trains & Street Food

• On Sale: 15% Off See Prices

This memorable trip is offered by G Adventures which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $154 per day. Traverse through 6 enchanting destinations, with Kyoto, Hiroshima, Kamakura, and Hakone among the must-see stops along the route. Tokyo marks the starting point, while Osaka stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. The maximum group size is 16 people, welcoming travelers aged 18 to 39 years old. Act now to take advantage of the special sale price!

Epic 13-Day Japan Budget Tour: Odyssey Across the Land of the Rising Sun

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 4.3 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 13 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 20 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers aged 18 to 55 years old. This trip visits 7 destinations, including Hiroshima, Kamakura, Hakone, and Fuji along the way. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Tokyo. Brought to you by The Dragon Trip , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $184 per day.

• In-depth Cultural

Japan Unrivalled (13 Days)

With this option you can experience an unparalleled trip for 13 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 30 participants at most. Experience a trip that takes you to 9 remarkable destinations, including Koya-san, Hakone, Matsumoto, and Takayama. Tokyo will mark the start of your journey, while Osaka will serve as its final destination. Contiki , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers aged 18 to 35 years old. With an emphasis on museums and temples, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $242 per day.

Japan Discovery - 15 Days

This fantastic voyage has a rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars. Explore 12 incredible locations on this trip, including Hiroshima, Nara, Kyoto, and Kanazawa. Osaka marks the starting point, while Tokyo stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Lasting 15 days, the maximum group size is 40 people, and it's good for travelers aged 2 or older. Organized by Tomato Travel , this is a great deal because it's only $186 per day.

Japan in a Week (8 Days)

With a stellar 5 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary voyage is the perfect choice. Beginning in beautiful Tokyo, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Osaka. Spanning across 8 days, the voyage accommodates 50 individuals, and is suitable for travelers aged 18 to 35 years old. Offered by Contiki , this remarkable voyage is priced at just $205 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Highlights of Japan - 7 Days

This exceptional trip offering by Tomato Travel has received a 4.1 out of 5 rating. On this 7-day trip you can unwind while also making new memories. This trip takes you on an adventure to 5 destinations, including Fuji, Hamamatsu, and Osaka. Tokyo will mark the start of your journey, while Osaka will serve as its final destination. With a group size of 40 people, it's suitable for travelers aged 2 or older. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $199 per day.

Japan Adventure

Check out this trip that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating. With 7 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Koya-san, Nagano, Hakone, and Fuji, and more. Tokyo marks the starting point, while Kyoto stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. Spanning across 13 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 16 participants, and it's great for travelers aged 18 to 39 years old. Brought to you by the renowned INTRO Travel , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $196 per day - an unbeatable value.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan , The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan , The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan , The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Japan , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan , The Best Adventure Tours to Japan , The Best Eco Tours in Japan , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Japan , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan , The Best Cultural Tours in Japan , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Japan , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan , The Best Walking Tours in Japan , The Best Luxury Tours to Japan , The Best Budget Tours to Japan , The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan , The Best Contiki Tours to Japan , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Tokyo , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Fukuoka , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Sapporo , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Osaka , The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo , The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Osaka for more package tour options.

How much do historical tours in Japan cost?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for historical tours when planning a visit to Japan. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of historical tours in Japan based on data from 38 options is an affordable $327 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Japan .

And for more information on Japan, see Japan Travel Costs and Japan Hotel Costs .

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A two-day guided walk through Tokyo’s fascinating history; from founding shogun to today's glittering metropolis; find remnants of and insights into samurai Edo amongst gleaming architecture in one of the safest, most liveable and most intriguing cities in the world.

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A Samurai History Tour: Japan’s Most Famous Battlefield and a Remarkable Castle

Sekigahara is a peaceful mountain valley town in Gifu Prefecture. In 1600, however, it was the site of an epic battle that decided the history of feudal Japan. Tour guide Miyuki Seguchi explains the background of the battle, and introduces some historic spots where visitors can relive the clash of samurai armies and see how warlords lived.

The Great Unifiers

The Battlefield - ©️Nobutsugu Sugiyama (nsp-jp.com)

In the year 1600, Japan was a country at war. For more than a century, warlords had fought each other over control of their domains. The central area of Japan, stretching from Osaka and Kyoto up toward Aichi Prefecture, saw the emergence of a few powerful men intent on unifying the country. The first “Great Unifier” was Oda Nobunaga (1534–1582), a powerful regional ruler who extended his territory from what is now Aichi Prefecture to cover a large part of modern-day Chubu and Kansai regions. His decades of subjugating his rivals came to an end when one of his retainers ambushed him, and forced him to accept suicide rather than be killed. He was succeeded by another of his retainers, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537–1598), a former peasant, who continued to conquer other provinces, and even ordered two invasions of Korea. He died, leaving an underage son—too weak to step into his shoes—and no real successor.

Alliances and Conflicts in a Power Vacuum

An illustration of Tokugawa Ieyasu and his family crest (far left)

This opened the door to the ambitions of Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543–1616), a daimyo born in the central region, but whose domain was then based in Edo (now Tokyo). Ieyasu was a master of strategy and manipulation, whose climb to power was marked by shifts in alliances and negotiations with enemies. He spent the two years after Hideyoshi’s death making alliances with a number of daimyo throughout Japan. Leading the fight in opposition was another retainer, Ishida Mitsunari, who saw himself as the protector of Hideyoshi’s family, his young heir, and his legacy. A series of clashes eventually led to a showdown, with Ieyasu's east and Mitsunari's west armies facing each other at Sekigahara.

The Battle Commences

A hill where a camp was based during the Battle - ©️Nobutsugu Sugiyama (nsp-jp.com)

Almost all of Japan’s warlords took sides, and participated in the battle preparations. In fact, the Battle of Sekigahara is known as the largest battle in Japan’s feudal history, with an estimated 150,000 samurai warriors taking part. Despite the scale, however, the battle didn’t even last a day. Many of the warlords that belonged to Mitsunari’s camp had actually made secret agreements with Ieyasu. Others, believing that Mitsunari would lose, switched sides in the midst of battle, handing a massive victory to Ieyasu. Although it took a few more years for Ieyasu to consolidate his control over the entire country, this memorable battle is seen as the beginning of the Tokugawa shogunate, as Ieyasu’s descendants went on to rule the country for more than two and a half centuries.

Remnants of the Battle

The town of Sekigahara - ©️Nobutsugu Sugiyama (nsp-jp.com)

Today, Sekigahara is a countryside town that has kept the ambience of old Japan. As you walk or cycle around the town, you’ll notice a number of vertical flags situated on a top of hills and other locations. These mark the spots where some of the renowned warlords were said to have been located during the Battle.

The Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum

A view from the observation deck of The Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum

A must stop for anyone interested in the battle is the Gifu Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum, a 10-minute walk from Sekigahara Station. Opened in 2020, this state-of-the-art museum includes digital displays that take visitors to virtual battlefields where they can walk through every major strategic movement in the battle. There are also exhibitions of replicas of the armor that samurai warriors wore in the battle as well as swords, copies of letters, and other items that belonged to these warlords. There is also a cosplay section where you can try on a samurai warrior outfit and take a picture with props like an imitation gun or a Japanese sword. The top floor offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the battlefield. In fact, it is said to be located at the exact place where Tokugawa Ieyasu watched his victory unfold.

Hikone Castle

The main tower of the Hikone Castle

Following the battle, Tokugawa Ieyasu divided the regional lands among feudal lords, called daimyo, giving the most important to his most loyal followers. Meanwhile, Osaka, and its massive castle, remained in the hands of the Toyotomi family. In order to prevent the Toyotomi clan from using their position to challenge his rule, Ieyasu ordered his followers to build a number of castles encircling Osaka. Ii Naomasa was one of Tokugawa’s most loyal servants, and had contributed greatly at the Battle of Sekigahara. In return, he was given the former domain of the defeated warlord Ishida Mitsunari, located on the eastern side of Lake Biwa (where Hikone city is now). It was a strategically important spot to keep an eye on the Toyotomi clan. Ieyasu ordered the building of a new castle there to brace for final battles against the Toyotomi clan. In the end, however, after years of negotiations and a long siege Osaka Castle fell in 1615 and the Toyotomi domain came to an end. Hikone Castle was never used in battle. Today, Hikone Castle is one of the five castles that have remained largely intact over the centuries, and have been designated national treasures.

Designed for Strong Defense

A wooden bridge in the Hikone Castle that could be easily destroyed in case of an attack

Hikone Castle was built when war was still a possibility, a fact that is reflected in a number of defensive structures, and the exterior and interior designs. There are massive stone foundations that prevent enemies from climbing up the hill where the main tower is located. There are turrets that are designed to shoot down on these enemies as they approach. The exterior of the three-storey main tower is covered with a number of decorative roofs and windows, to project a strong presence. These features and the appearance were meant to convince the opponent to give up without a fight or a siege. After the conflict ended, the castle continued to be used as the residence of the feudal lord. It was also used as an administration office for policymaking and other administrative roles. These palace spaces were carefully reconstructed and are now a part of the Hikone Castle Museum.

The Hikone Castle Museum

An original armor of Ii Naomasa exhibited at the Hikone Castle Museum

The exhibits here include a superb collection of arts and crafts, armor and weaponry, and items related to tea ceremony, all of which were handed down through multiple generations of the Ii clan. Noh theater and the tea ceremony were used to deepen bonds among feudal lords, and the museum still maintains a Noh theater and related items such as masks, costumes and props. Luckily, the Ii clan’s loyalty over the years helped preserve this magnificent collection. While other feudal lords were sometimes forced to relocate, a move meant to keep them from forming alliances against the regime, the Ii clan was allowed to remain in this strategically important domain for the entire Edo period. For 260 years, the Ii clan continued to support the Tokugawa government, and the family leaders were among the most senior ranked feudal lords.

The Genkyuen Garden and Cruising the Moat by Boat

Hikone Castle overlooking Genkyuen Garden with the tea house on the pond

Next to the castle lies the Genkyuen Garden, an traditional garden used by the feudal lords for entertainment. The grounds surround a central pond and include a tea house that serves matcha tea with traditional sweets

A boat cruise of the surrounding moat

Visitors can cruise the surrounding moat on a boat. The boats’ design is modelled after the boats used in the samurai period. The ceiling is so low that you need to crawl into the boat, which is exactly how feudal lords, their wives and children boarded many years ago. This 45-minute boat cruise is a popular activity, especially when cherry blossoms are in full bloom (from the end of March through early April).

How to Get There

Sekigahara is about 50 minutes from Nagoya (a stop on the Shinkansen bullet train) by local train. Hikone is about a 40-minute train ride from either Kyoto or Nagoya. It takes half an hour between Sekigahara and Hikone by local train.

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WHERE TO EXPERIENCE SAMURAI IN JAPAN

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DISCOVER THE HISTORY, CULTURE AND AUTHENTIC ARTIFACTS OF SAMURAI & WHERE TO EXPERIENCE IT IN JAPAN!

Former samurai districts in japan.

Matsue Samurai District

Kakunodate Samurai District

Kitsuki Samurai District

Hagi Former Castle Town

Hagi City stood as the political power-center of the Mori Clan for 250 years. Hagi Castle stands in the middle of the town. Most of the castle was lost over the years, but you can still see the original foundation and stone walls. The rest is a reconstruction. In town, head to the Hagi Museum or Kuyama Art Museum where you can see authentic samurai swords, artifacts, and armor. Click Here for More Information

SAMURAI THEME PARKS AND MUSEUMS

Tochigi Prefecture (3 hours from Tokyo Station): Nikko Edomura

Kyoto City : Toei Uzumasa Eigamura (aka Kyoto Studio Park or Movie Land)

Hokkaido : Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura

Tokyo : Shinjuku Samurai Museum

If you’re looking for a samurai experience in Tokyo, look no further than the Shinjuku Samurai Museum in Kabukicho. The museum includes a tour of authentic samurai katana, armor, and other weaponry followed by a choreographed swordsmanship display. After the tour, you can try on a samurai helmet and armor or take a samurai sword training class. Click Here for More Information

10 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT SAMURAI

1. Live by the Code; Die by the Code Samurai observed strict manners collectively known as Bushido , “the way of the warrior.” Although this custom has ancient origins, the Bushido code wasn’t unified until sometime between the 16th and the 20th century. Nitobe Inazo is credited for finally summing up the code in his book Bushido: The Soul of Japan . The Bushido covers everything from ritual suicide for disgraced warriors ( seppuku ) to how one should care for a horse. 2. The Pen is Mightier Part of the Bushido code dictates that all samurai must be master fighters and highly educated. Every samurai studied reading, writing, mathematics, science, and even arts like tea ceremony and flower arrangement. During peacetime, the samurai were the scholars of Japan. They even studied in foreign countries and opened schools upon their returns from abroad. After the disbandment of samurai during the Meiji Restoration, some became high ranking officers in the newly formed army. However, many more became journalists, entrepreneurs (like the Mitsubishi family), and politicians. 3. The Not So Elite Few Popular culture makes it seem as though the honor of becoming a samurai belonged to only a select few. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Different reports estimate that at their peak samurai made up between 6 to 10% of the population of Japan. There were so many that it’s thought every living Japanese person has a samurai in their family tree! 4. Category is: Warrior Extravaganza Realness You may already be aware that samurai armor was anything but simple. The several pieces were made from ornately decorated leather, silk, and iron. The helmets for high-ranking samurai often included masks with beards and larger than life horns and headpieces. The lavish accessories served two purposes. First, so you could differentiate between friend and foe in battle, and second to intimidate your enemies. 5. Practical and Fashionable Speaking of those helmets, it’s thought that the samurai wore their hair in top-knots for practical purposes. The style kept your hair out of your eyes, and by shaving just the scalp your helmet stayed on easier. However, the samurai were fierce trend-setters, and soon even non-samurai styled their hair the same way. 6. Different types of swords Most people can easily recognize the katana samurai sword, but they actually used three types in total. The first samurai often carried chokuto , which was smaller and lighter than the European longsword. Chokuto evolved into the katana sword, but most samurai carried a short companion sword known as a wakizashi . 7. Weapons other than swords The image of a samurai blocking a barrage of bullets with his blade might look cool, but it’s completely inaccurate. As warfare technology advanced, so did the weaponry at a samurai’s disposal. Group fighting tactics made spears more practical than swords, and gunpowder led them to abandon bows for rifles and cannons. 8. Sisters are Doing it for Themselves The term “samurai” strictly refers to men, but there were female counterparts within this social class. The women warriors of Japan were known as the onna-bugeisha , and they fought right alongside the men in combat. The history books mention them disproportionately less which led to the thought that there was only a handful of them. However, archeological digs of ancient battlefields have found that women made up to about 30% of the average army. 9. The Samurai Might Not Have Exactly Been Japanese Samurai and the descendants of samurai often didn’t look like the rest of the Japanese population. They were known to be much hairier, some sporting great mustaches, and their facial features were noticeably different. This has led many historians to believe that the original samurai were actually the indigenous Ainu people from northern Japan. The Ainu suffered a great deal of discrimination, but they might have been the most instrumental in Japan’s creation. 10. In Fact, Some Samurai Weren’t from Japan at all! Although Japanese nobles made up most of the samurai population, it wasn’t necessarily a requirement to be noble or Japanese. The shogunate reserved the right to dub anyone a samurai, and some non-Japanese people enjoyed the honor. Famous foreign samurai include Yasuke (likely Mozambique), Kim Yeocheol ( Korea ), William Adams (England), and Jan Joosten van Lodensteyn (Holland). Find out how you can experience samurai culture for yourself by clicking the link below!

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Kendrick Lamar made hip-hop history by using his Juneteenth show as a victory lap against Drake and an attempt to unite the West Coast

• Kendrick Lamar performed his first show since his beef with Drake on Wednesday. 
• Lamar performed most of his diss tracks aimed at Drake, including "Not Like Us" five times.
• But fans say the event attended by major hip-hop figures and LA gang members was more than a victory lap from Lamar. 

Kendrick Lamar cemented his win in his rap beef with Drake at an LA show on Wednesday where he performed a diss track five times, surrounded by rap legends.

But the Juneteenth concert wasn't just a victory lap, with fans viewing it as an iconic moment in hip-hop history and an important attempt to unite the fractured West Coast .

The sold-out, one-off show, "The Pop Out: Ken & Friends" — which was streamed live on Amazon Prime Video and Twitch — was Lamar's hotly anticipated first performance since his beef with Drake unfolded earlier this year.

After the pair released a series of back-to-back diss tracks in April and May, Lamar was viewed as the winner after "Not Like Us" topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts for one week in May and has been in the top 10 ever since. Drake's response, "The Heart Part 6" wasn't enough to beat Lamar.

When both artists went quiet, fans were left wondering what would happen next.

Lamar didn't disappoint with "The Pop Out," where he performed four of his five Drake diss tracks, opening with "Euphoria." Later came his diss verses on "6:16" and "Like That," and he ended the night with "Not Like Us," featuring an intro from West Coast hip-hop legend Dr Dre , who joined him on stage.

Lamar then performed "Not Like Us" four more times alongside numerous West Coast rappers, athletes, dancers, and members from multiple Los Angeles gangs. At the end, they took a group photo together.

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Fans said the concert was the equivalent of Lamar getting the West Coast to dance on Drake's grave, and proof that the hip-hop community supports him.

Kendrick doing this on the heels of killin Drake knowing the whole world would tune into him doing a victory lap on his grave, just to have the first hour be local rappers and Tommy the Clown and his next generation of dancers for 20 minutes is fucking hilarious and AMAZING — Big Boss 🇵🇸 (@LordBalvin) June 20, 2024

Drake really pissed KDot off so bad he formed the Rap Coalition of Hate, they did a dance circle on his grave, and took a family photo like 😘✌🏽 pic.twitter.com/elcJmQMok4 — Riana Manuel-Peña 💜 (@RianaTweetsNow) June 20, 2024

DEMAR DEROZAN WESTBROOK KENDRICK YG MISCELLANEOUS GANG MEMBERS KENDRICK GOT THE WHOLE WEST COAST ON STAGE DANCING ON DRAKE GRAVE BRUH LMFAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO WHAT THE FUCK pic.twitter.com/f0Yh1qWjTf — Big Boss 🇵🇸 (@LordBalvin) June 20, 2024

But they also appreciated the cultural significance of the show, with one X user describing it as " one of the most historic nights in hip-hop history ."

While fans have focused a lot on the unsubstantiated allegations of sexual assault, pedophilia, and domestic abuse in the pair's diss tracks, the battle was truly about authenticity.

In "Not Like Us," Lamar calls Drake, who is Canadian, a "colonizer" of rap culture, claiming he stole his persona from artists like Future , Lil Baby, 21 Savage, Young Thug, Quavo, and 2Chainz.

In "Family Matters" and "Push Ups," Drake calls Lamar, who raps about race and societal issues , a fake activist and says his hometown, Compton, California, doesn't support him.

Lamar challenged that idea by showcasing up-and-coming West Coast rappers and performing with major Californian hip-hop stars including Tyler The Creator, Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, Schoolboy Q, and Dr. Dre, while the crowd was filled with stars including LeBron James .

Lamar didn't just bring all of these artists together to mock Drake, though, but to unite the West Coast.

"For all of us to be on this stage together, unity, from East side mother-fucking LA, Crips, Bloods, Pirus, this shit is special, man. We put this shit together just for ya'll," Lamar said in between the "Not Like Us" encores, referring to rival gang members onstage.

"This shit ain't got nothing to do with no song at this point, ain't got nothing to do with no back and forth records, it's got everything to do with this moment right here. That's what this shit was about, to bring all of us to-mother-fucking-gether," he added.

Lamar also paid tribute to late rapper Nipsey Hussle , former NBA star Kobe Bryant , and Californians who have lost their lives to violence.

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Japan imperial couple's U.K. visit highlights history of exchanges

The eight-day visit to Britain by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako from Saturday highlights some 150 years of exchanges between the Japanese imperial family and the British royal family.

Prince Alfred had a positive impression of the Japanese side at the time, according to Naotaka Kimizuka, professor at Kanto Gakuin University and expert on the British royal family.

This event provided the Japanese side with an opportunity to recognize the significance of entertaining important people from abroad and adopt rules of international protocol including hosting banquets at the Imperial Palace for guests.

In 1921, Crown Prince Hirohito visited Britain and was well received by King George V.

In 1979, Emperor Hirohito, posthumously known as Emperor Showa, told reporters that he had listened to King George V about British constitutional government. He said that being a constitutional monarch is the base of his lifetime belief.

Emperor Emeritus Akihito, who is Emperor Showa's first son and abdicated as emperor in 2019, read a biography of King George V together with Shinzo Koizumi, his mentor and former president of Keio University, when he was crown prince.

After years of antagonism between Japan and Britain during World War II, Akihito, then as crown prince, attended the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, one year after the San Francisco peace treaty took effect, officially ending the war between Japan and the Allied powers.

Exchanges between the Japanese imperial family and the British royal family became active and, in 1971, Emperor Hirohito and Empress Nagako, posthumously known as Empress Kojun, visited Britain. In 1975, Queen Elizabeth II visited Japan.

During their visit to Britain in 1998 by Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, the Japanese monarch said at a banquet hosted by the queen and her husband that he felt deep pain in his heart for people who suffered because of the war.

Naruhito studied at the University of Oxford between 1983 and 1985. In his book chronicling his two years in Britain, the Emperor wrote about close exchanges with Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the British royal family.

When he traveled to Britain alone in 2001, Naruhito said he hoped to visit Britain with Masako next time.

Kimizuka said exchanges between the Japanese imperial family and the British royal family, which he calls "soft diplomacy," helped maintain relations between Japan and Britain and also helped postwar reconciliation.

Britain wants to strengthen cooperation with Japan after its exit from the European Union, Kimizuka said. He said the visit to Britain by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, who were both born after the war, "will be future-oriented, toward a new Japan-Britain relationship."

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