Japan

Famous for its temples, technology, sushi, geishas, cherry blossoms, mountains and rugged landscapes, Japan’s ultramodernity and ancient traditions coexist in harmony. The country stretches across four main islands surrounded by thousands of smaller isles, offering plenty of space and diversity for Gray & Co.’s private active trips.

You can do it all in Japan – from hiking ancient samurai routes to skiing snowy mountains, sea kayaking through archipelagos, biking among pagodas and rice paddies and swimming in volcanic hot springs.

In the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo, skyscrapers and neon lights mingle with pristine gardens. Gray & Co. helps to navigate this massive city of 14 million. Sample the freshest fish at the market, walk Shibuya Crossing (the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection), dine with a ramen expert at local hideouts and shop vintage markets in Harajuku. Excellent accommodations include the Four Seasons Otemachi, the well-located Peninsula, the Imperial with Mount Fuji–view balconies, and the chicly minimalist Aman.

Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan, is a mere 2.5-hour high-speed train journey from Tokyo. The variety among the 1,500 brightly-colored temples keep everyone engaged,  Kimono-clad geishas and tourists alike wander the streets in this UNESCO-protected city.  Travelers can partake in a Sensei-led private tea ceremony, a lesson in geisha etiquette and dressing, a meditation with Buddhist monks, a samurai sword-fighting instruction, a centuries-old Taiko drums session and more. One of the best bike rides in the country is located in the rolling countryside located right outside the city. The Ritz Carlton and Aman are tops for hotel options, There are also many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) for more local-feeling options.

Three of the best Japanese regions to bike are the Noto Peninsula near Kanazawa, Nikko National Park and the Onomichi region, known as the “Mediterranean of Japan.”. This region features an archipelago of stunning Seto Sea islands which are connected by dramatic bridges. The new Azumi hotel in Setoda is the ultimate place to stay in the region.

Some of the country’s other active highlights include visiting the art islands of Naoshima & Teshima, exploring Mount Fuji, snorkeling the warm waters of Okinawa, custom hiking along any number of the country’s many long-distance trails, and skiing one of Japan’s great ski resorts such as Nozawa or Niseko. Arigato!