As part of our commitment to giving you unbiased adventure travel advice, here is our A-list of the best adventure tours in Japan.
Japan is a study in contrasts between traditional and modern. Large bustling cities like Tokyo are only a short journey from traditional villages. Pop culture exists next to the grace of a geisha, bullet trains next to the spare beauty of a Zen rock garden. There is temple-rich Kyoto, beautified by cherry blossoms and fall colours; there are walks in the Japanese Alps, followed by a long soak in a classic Japanese bath; there are stays at ryokans (traditional inns); and there is the food, made of the freshest of ingredients. This is Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun.
Read about must-see places and quintessential experiences in Japan Best overall sightseeing trip.
If money is not an object, then the best trip is On the Go's Tokyo to Takayama, covering all the major highlights and some unique experiences. But there are plenty of lower-cost runner-ups, for example Intrepid's Classic Japan and Exodus' Ancient & Modern Japan. Best hiking trip
The best hiking trip in Japan is offered by World Expeditions: Backroads of Japan, a wonderful combination of city explorations and discovery of ancient pilgrimage trails. Best multisport trip
G-Adventures takes the crown here with their Japan hike, bike & kayak, showing you the main sites along with some great active explorations of lesser-known sites. Best foodie trip
Celebrate Japan's ancient harmonious cuisine on Intrepid's Japan Real Food Adventure. Best comfort trip
In the comfort category it is a toss-up between Intrepid's Classic Japan and Peregrine's Japan Revealed. Best luxury trip
Abercrombie & Kent give you a wonderful insight into Japanese culture and highlights on their luxury Classic Japan. Best quickie trip
G-Adventures Japan Express is a 9-day exploration that doesn't miss a single highlight. Best off-the-beaten track trip
Best cycling trip
Amazing coastlines, beautiful mountain scenery, splendid National Parks and a rich cultural heritage - all this and more on World Expedition's Best of Hokkaido by bike.