Rail Journey
12 day Japanese Gardens in Autumn
Japanese Culture, Art & Gardens in Autumn Splendour
Explore Japan during autumn, travelling by bullet train to enjoy cultural experiences, visit temples and admire art. See Kenroku-en and Koraku-en, as well as the Zen garden, Ryoan-ji. And explore the renowned cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Kanazawa. This itinerary suits both returning and first-time travellers who want to see Japan during this magical season.
This journey departs:
3 November 2026
2 November 2027
Highlights
The following highlights provide an overview of some of the captivating encounters awaiting you on tour.
Discover the Enchanting Kenroku-en Garden
In Kanazawa, enjoy the strolling-style landscape garden of Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s most beautiful.
Admire Ryoan-ji Garden
Visit Ryoan-ji Temple, a World Heritage-listed site, known for its rock garden, considered one of the finest surviving in the world.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Gaze skyward at the towering stalks of bamboo within Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights.
Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo
Absorb the sights and sounds at one of Tokyo’s best-loved temples, located within Asakusa, Tokyo’s Old Town.
Japan: A Peaceful Retreat
Hear from Botanical Guide Simon Rickard on travelling to Japan in Spring and Autumn.
Explore Gardens with your Botanical Guide Simon Rickard
Travel with celebrity gardener Simon Rickard, who has a passion for Japan and its gardens.
Inclusions
See below for an overview of your tour’s inclusions and featured sightseeing.
Travel with a small group of 15-25 guests, escorted by expert Botanical Guide, Simon Rickard
Includes 11 nights’ accommodation in centrally located four-to five-star hotels, return private transfers from door to door, tipping and porterage, plus 28 meals and select beverages
Relax aboard a comfortable coach with an experienced and informative Tour Manager
All sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Discover Japanese strolling gardens and Zen gardens in spectacular autumn colour
Visit the world-famous gardens, Kenroku-en and Koraku-en, as well as the Japanese Zen garden, Ryoan-ji, with your Botanical Guide
Visit Byodo-in Temple and learn how to make green tea. And admire the impressive golden Kinkaku-ji
Explore the cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Kanazawa and learn about their history and culture. Enjoy a maiko (apprentice geisha) performance over a private dinner.
Itinerary
Your day-by-day itinerary details the gardens and other sights that make up your journey.
Simon Rickard, Expert Botanical Guide
“The approach to gardening in Japan is one of restraint, where balance is sought, and older trees are treated with reverence. Here, wabi-sabi is a poetic term which roughly translates to ‘the beauty of imperfection’. The season closest to the heart of this mercurial concept is autumn, when maple leaves fall in scarlet, orange and golden glory. Join me on Botanica’s tour of Japan, as we explore some of my favourite gardens during the height of the season’s spectacular colour.”
Trip Notes
Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
Fitness rating: Medium
You need to be able to walk quickly to proceed through train stations, while there are no lifts at the stations. There are often steps leading to temples during some visits.
Group size: 15 to 25 guests
Some excursions may require a high level of mobility and fitness.
Our experience of gardens, their flora, and other aspects of nature, is subject to weather conditions and seasonality, which may vary
Travel by bullet train or private coach