Echoes of the Past: A Japanese Ancestry Journey

TokudAw’s Japan Ancestry Tours are ideal for travelers looking to get in touch with their Japanese roots. We offer a mix of the tour via private car or Shinkansen, allowing you to travel in comfort and confidence. Many people with Japanese ancestry are living in the US or other countries having never experienced the country that their family comes from, and are looking for just the right tour to show them their heritage. Our tours are perfect for first-time travelers of Japanese ancestry looking to learn more about your family’s home country and their roots. This itinerary is a mix of the iconic sightseeing spots like Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima but we also bring you to the hidden parts of Japan like Shirakawago, Awaji, Yufuin onsen and more.

Day 1: Tokyo (Overnight in Tokyo)

Welcome to Tokyo, one of the world's most vibrant and dynamic cities. Tokyo offers a captivating mix of cutting-edge modernity and deep-rooted traditions, with countless attractions to suit every type of traveller. The city's diverse neighbourhoods and numerous museums also provide a glimpse into the lifestyle and architecture of Japan's ancestors, allowing visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage that coexists alongside Tokyo’s futuristic urban landscape.

Shitamachi, which consists of the neighbourhoods Yanaka and Nezu, miraculously escaped major damage during wars and natural disasters, preserving its historic charm. In Shitamachi’s narrow back alleys, you'll find hidden gems like Yanaka Cemetery and Nezu Shrine, nestled among traditional wooden houses, cozy izakaya pubs, atmospheric coffee shops, and retro shops selling old-fashioned sweets and snacks. This area offers a glimpse into a slower-paced, more nostalgic Tokyo, where time seems to stand still amidst the city’s bustling modernity.

Day 2: Tokyo — Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum — Kawagoe — Tokyo (Overnight in Tokyo)

Before heading over to “The Little Edo” of Kanto, a visit to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum offers an immersive introduction to Edo-period architecture and daily life. This museum showcases a variety of historically significant buildings relocated from different parts of Tokyo, allowing visitors to explore traditional homes, merchant shops, bathhouses, and more. The open-air museum provides a tangible experience of how people lived during the Edo period, making it an ideal prelude to your journey through Japan’s rich historical landscapes. This step into the past deepens your appreciation for the architectural treasures you'll encounter in Kawagoe, known as "Little Edo," where the echoes of Japan’s feudal era still resonate today.

In Kawagoe, make use of the opportunity to explore numerous traditional shophouses selling unique goods and food.

Day 3: Tokyo — Yokohama — Hakone (Overnight at Hakone)

The Japanese Overseas Migration Museum in Yokohama houses a collection of more than 20,000 reference materials and documents related to overseas migration. This museum offers a deep insight into the lives of Japanese emigrants who ventured to different parts of the world, including North and South America, during various waves of migration. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that illustrate the rich history of Japan's global diaspora.

Hakone, with its tranquil hot springs, serene landscapes, and historic sites, offers a meaningful stop for ancestral tourism, especially for those looking to connect with Japan's natural and cultural heritage. The area’s long history as a resting point along the Tōkaidō Road, a vital travel route during the Edo period, allows visitors to trace the footsteps of their ancestors who may have journeyed through this region centuries ago. The iconic Hakone Shrine, with its striking red torii gate standing gracefully by the shores of Lake Ashi, invites reflection and reverence, making it a must-visit site for those reconnecting with their heritage. Exploring Hakone’s preserved traditions, such as the healing hot springs (onsen) that have been used for generations, provides a connection to the past.

Day 4: Hakone — Kawaguchiko (Overnight at Kawaguchiko)

Spend the morning and afternoon exploring Hakone, before heading over to Kawaguchiko. Kawaguchiko is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and is an extremely popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a spectacular view of the majestic Mount Fuji. Kawaguchiko is also home to many different parks with each offering a unique angle of Mount Fuji.

Day 5: Kawaguchiko — Matsumoto (Overnight at Matsumoto)

To the south of Kawaguchiko lies Oshino Hakkai, a collection of 8 springs/ponds which are the byproduct of historic eruptions and intense volcanic activity around the area. These crystal-clear ponds offer a glimpse into the area’s natural history.

Not far from the lake, Arakurayama Sengen Park offers a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji framed by a picturesque pagoda. Located 398 steps up, the observation deck is a must-visit for tourists around Kawaguchiko area.

Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture is rich in historical significance, with Matsumoto Castle as its crown jewel. Often called the "Crow Castle" due to its striking black exterior, this well-preserved fortress dates to the Sengoku period and offers an authentic glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. The city’s Edo-period charm is alive in its traditional neighbourhoods, such as Nakamachi and Nawate, where old merchant houses and warehouses reflect Matsumoto's history as a thriving trade hub. For many Japanese Americans, Matsumoto represents a connection to ancestral roots, embodying the traditions of craftsmanship and trade carried to new shores.

Day 6: Matsumoto — Takayama — Shirakawago  (Overnight at Shirakawago)

Takayama, located in Gifu Prefecture, is a picturesque city known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Hida Mountains, Takayama offers a charming blend of historical architecture, traditional crafts, and vibrant local festivals. The city's highlight is its beautifully preserved Sanmachi Suji district, where visitors can stroll along narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, shops, and sake breweries. Takayama is also known for its Hida Beef (Wagyu grade), with its rich marbling and blushing pink meat.

Not far from the beautiful city of Takayama lies Shirakawago, a traditional village and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area holds deep cultural and ancestral significance, with its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses that reflect centuries of rural Japanese life. The architectural style, characterized by steep, thatched roofs resembling hands in prayer, was ingeniously designed to endure the heavy snowfalls of winter and to provide ample attic space for silk cultivation, a livelihood passed down through generations. Shirakawa-go is not just a visual spectacle; it represents the resilience and resourcefulness of the people who have lived in harmony with the natural environment.

Day 7: Takayama — Sekigahara — Nagoya (Overnight at Nagoya)

Sekigahara, a historic town in Gifu Prefecture, is renowned as the site of the pivotal Battle of Sekigahara, which took place in 1600 and marked the beginning of the Edo period in Japan. This decisive battle was a turning point in Japanese history, leading to the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate and over 250 years of peace and stability under Tokugawa rule. Today, Sekigahara is a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and could be of high importance to those seeking ancestral connection. The town features a well-preserved battlefield with informative monuments, statues, and a dedicated museum that provides insight into the battle's strategic significance and the key figures involved.

Nagoya, Japan's fourth-largest city, stands as a vital hub of history and ancestral heritage, particularly within the Tokai region. Known as the birthplace of the powerful Oda, Toyotomi, and Tokugawa clans, Nagoya played a pivotal role in shaping Japan's feudal era. Nagoya Castle, originally built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, symbolizes the strength and grandeur of the Edo period and remains a significant site for those tracing their lineage to this transformative time in Japan’s history.

Beyond the castle, the city offers a connection to Japan’s samurai legacy, where ancestral stories unfold through preserved districts and cultural relics. For Japanese Americans, Nagoya provides an opportunity to delve into the roots of traditional craftsmanship, such as Owari Cloisonné (Shippo-yaki), a celebrated form of decorative enamelware passed down through generations. Exploring Nagoya allows visitors to connect with both the grand historical narratives and the personal legacies of their ancestors.

Day 8: Nagoya — Kyoto (Overnight at Kyoto)
The Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology connects visitors to Japan's modern industrial roots. Founded in Nagoya, Toyota started as a textile manufacturing company before transforming into a global automotive giant. The museum showcases the evolution of Japanese craftsmanship and innovation, offering insight into how tradition and technology intersect in the development of modern Japan. For those with ties to Japanese craftsmanship, this museum highlights the technological advancements that propelled Japan onto the world stage.

Nagoya Castle, is a powerful symbol of Japan's feudal history and the legacy of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in the early 17th century, the castle was central to the unification of Japan and stands as a testament to the country's turbulent past. The reconstruction of the castle’s iconic golden shachihoko, mythical creatures that adorn the rooftop, reflects Japan's dedication to preserving its architectural heritage. For visitors exploring ancestral ties to the samurai era, the castle offers a direct link to the grandeur and power of the Edo period.

The Tokugawa Art Museum holds an extensive collection of artifacts once belonging to the powerful Tokugawa family, who ruled Japan during the Edo period. The museum provides a deep dive into samurai culture, showcasing heirlooms, swords, tea ceremony utensils, and Noh costumes that have been preserved over generations. It offers a rare glimpse into the personal lives of Japan’s ruling class, making it a key destination for those seeking to connect with their samurai ancestry and Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Day 9: Kyoto (Overnight at Kyoto)

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning temples, and beautifully preserved traditional architecture. As a city steeped in history, Kyoto boasts iconic landmarks such as the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), the serene Ryoan-ji rock garden, and the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its mesmerizing tunnel of red torii gates. As we adventure around Kyoto, enjoy the historical atmosphere and enjoy the traditional crafts and food Kyoto offers.

Arashiyama, a scenic district in Kyoto, is renowned for its natural beauty and historic sites. Set against the backdrop of the lush, forested mountains, Arashiyama is best known for its iconic Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere.

Kyoto is an essential destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich cultural heritage and explore deep ancestral connections.

Day 10: Kyoto — Kobe Maritime Museum — Awaji — Awa Odori Kaikan — Kagawa

The Kobe Maritime Museum stands as a testament to Japan's rich maritime history, particularly the legacy of the port of Kobe, which has been a gateway between Japan and the world for centuries. The museum highlights the evolution of maritime technology and the importance of sea trade in Japan's development. It offers insight into the lives of the seafarers who connected Japan with foreign lands and how maritime trade has shaped the culture and economy of the region, making it an essential stop for understanding the ancestral ties between Japan and the broader global community.

According to the ancient Japanese literature, Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, Awaji Island is said to be the first island that formed for Japan. The island is home to the Izanagi Shrine, dedicated to the deity Izanagi, one of the creators of Japan in Japanese mythology. Below the Onaruto Bridge that connects Awaji Island and Shikoku, is one of the world's three greatest currents, the Naruto Strait, which is pushed against it like a waterfall. The speed of the current can go as fast as 10.6 knots (about 20 km/h), which makes it the third fastest in the world. The “Naruto Vortex” is being promoted to be registered as a World Natural Heritage.

Located in Tokushima, Awa Odori Kaikan is a celebration of one of Japan's most famous traditional dance festivals, the Awa Odori. This energetic and vibrant dance has been performed for over 400 years, with its origins tied to ancestral harvest celebrations and community gatherings. The Awa Odori is more than just a dance; it is a cultural expression that reflects the spirit of the local people and their connection to their heritage. At the Kaikan, visitors can learn about the history of the dance, participate in performances, and gain an appreciation for the way traditional arts have been preserved and passed down through generations in Japan.

Day 11: Kagawa — Hiroshima

Before venturing to Hiroshima, take time to explore Takamatsu, a city rich in cultural and historical significance. Located in Kagawa Prefecture, Takamatsu offers a variety of attractions that showcase its heritage and unique charm.

Takamatsu Castle, one of Japan's three "Water Castles," stands as a testament to samurai ingenuity. Built in the late 16th century, this coastal fortress used seawater as a natural defence, reflecting the strategic importance of the Matsudaira clan. Its location highlights its role in trade and military history. Visiting Takamatsu Castle offers insight into feudal architecture and a connection to Japan's samurai heritage, with reconstructed turrets and gardens showcasing its historical significance.

Shikoku Village, located at the base of Yashima Plateau, is an open-air museum that recreates Japan’s Edo and Meiji periods. It features traditional thatched-roof houses, fishermen's huts, and kabuki theaters relocated from across Shikoku. This living museum provides a tangible link to the island's rural past, showcasing the craftsmanship and daily life of historical Japanese communities, making it a valuable site for those interested in ancestral connections.

Day 12: Hiroshima — Fukuoka (Overnight at Fukuoka)

Hiroshima, internationally recognized for its role in World War II, became a symbol of peace and resilience after the atomic bombing in 1945. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, located at the heart of the city, commemorates the tragic event with monuments, memorials, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, a preserved ruin symbolizing the devastation. The Peace Memorial Museum within the park documents the aftermath of the bombing, promoting a global message of peace and nuclear disarmament. Hiroshima today stands as a city of hope, dedicated to ensuring that the horrors of nuclear warfare are never repeated. For those seeking to connect with their ancestral heritage, Hiroshima is a vital destination.

Day 13: Fukuoka —  Yoshinogari Historical Park — Nagasaki (Overnight at Nagasaki)

Fukuoka, Kyushu's largest city, is a vibrant gateway to Japan's rich heritage. Historically significant as a major port, it played a crucial role in trade and cultural exchange. Key sites include Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of learning, and the Kyushu National Museum, showcasing the region’s diverse history. As a point of entry and departure for many families, Fukuoka's historical and cultural landmarks provide valuable insights into ancestral connections and Japan's historical development.

Yoshinogari Historical Park, located in Saga Prefecture, is a significant archaeological site that provides a deep dive into Japan’s ancient past. The park preserves the remains of a large Yayoi-period settlement, offering valuable insights into early Japanese civilization. Visitors can explore reconstructed dwellings, ceremonial sites, and artifacts that highlight the daily life, social structure, and technological advancements of the Yayoi people. The park’s extensive exhibits and open-air displays make it a vital destination for those interested in understanding the roots of Japanese culture and tracing ancestral histories.

Nagasaki has long been a crucial gateway between Japan and the world, bridging Japanese and foreign cultures throughout history. As one of the few ports open to foreign trade during the Edo Period, Nagasaki nurtured a unique blend of influences, particularly from China, the Netherlands, and Portugal, making it a vibrant cultural crossroads. This exchange gave rise to diverse architectural styles, local cuisines, and artistic expressions that are still evident in the city today. However, Nagasaki also holds a solemn place in history as the site of the second atomic bomb during World War II, leaving a profound impact on its heritage and resilience.

Day 14: Nagasaki — Yufuin Onsen (Overnight at Yufuin Onsen)

The Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum stand as solemn reminders of the devastation brought by nuclear warfare and the enduring hope for world peace. The park features various monuments and a striking Peace Statue symbolizing a commitment to ending the nuclear arms race. The Atomic Bomb Museum offers a harrowing look at the impact of the bomb, not just in Nagasaki but globally, through exhibits of artifacts, photographs, and testimonies of survivors. These sites hold deep ancestral importance as they bear witness to the resilience of the people of Nagasaki and their pursuit of peace for future generations.

Dejima was originally built as an artificial island to house Portuguese traders and later became the sole trading post for the Dutch during Japan’s period of national isolation. The Dejima Waran Trading Post Ruins is a critical reminder of Japan’s cautious engagement with the outside world during the Edo Period. Visitors can explore reconstructed buildings representing foreign merchants' lives, showcasing how Nagasaki served as a conduit for knowledge, technology, and culture from the West, which influenced Japan’s modernization. Dejima stands as a symbol of Japan’s selective embrace of foreign ideas while safeguarding its ancestral traditions.

Yufuin Onsen, nestled at the foot of Mount Yufu in Oita Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most charming hot spring destinations. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, the area is dotted with traditional ryokan inns offering outdoor baths with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Yufuin combines the rustic beauty of nature with a vibrant local culture, featuring art galleries, boutique shops, and cafés along its picturesque streets. The onsen waters are renowned for their soothing qualities, making Yufuin a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst serene natural surroundings.

Day 15: Yufuin Onsen — Kitakyushu — Yuda Onsen  (Overnight at Yuda Onsen)

Spend the morning exploring the beautiful town of Yufuin before heading over to Kitakyushu. Mojiko, located in Kitakyushu, is a historic port area that embodies Kyushu's cultural and ancestral significance. Mojiko’s development as a major port in the late 19th and early 20th centuries played a crucial role in Japan’s modernization and international relations. The area was pivotal in facilitating trade and cultural exchange between Japan and other countries, reflecting its strategic importance in shaping Japan’s economic and cultural landscape. For those tracing their family history, Mojiko’s role as a major port city means it has been a point of departure and arrival for many families over the years. Exploring the area can reveal stories of migration, trade, and cultural exchange that may resonate with ancestral research.

Yuda Onsen is a historic hot spring town in Yamaguchi City, famous for its therapeutic waters and deep cultural roots. The onsen dates back over 800 years and is said to have been discovered by a white fox, making it a revered spot for healing and relaxation. Traditionally, Yuda Onsen served as a rest stop for travelers and samurai making their way through western Japan. The town’s connection to Yamaguchi’s feudal past adds an ancestral significance, as it was frequented by regional lords and prominent figures. Today, Yuda Onsen continues to embody the serene spirit of Japanese onsen culture, offering a chance to connect with centuries-old traditions of wellness and hospitality in a town shaped by its historical importance.

Day 16: Yuda Onsen à Museum of Japanese Emigration to Hawaii à Hiroshima (Overnight at Hiroshima)

The Museum of Japanese Emigration to Hawaii in Yamaguchi Prefecture honours the thousands of Japanese who emigrated to Hawaii in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Situated in Suo-Oshima, the ancestral hometown of many emigrants, the museum tells the stories of those who sought new lives across the Pacific, showcasing their struggles and contributions abroad. It serves as both a cultural bridge for descendants to connect with their roots and a tribute to the resilience that shaped this important chapter in Japanese history.

Miyajima, officially known as Itsukushima, is a picturesque island in the Seto Inland Sea, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and historical significance. The island is renowned for Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features the iconic red torii gate that seems to float on the water during high tide. This striking sight, combined with the island's lush landscapes and serene ambience, makes Miyajima a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of cultural heritage and scenic splendour.

Day 17: Hiroshima — Okayama — Himeiji Castle (Overnight at Himeiji)

Okayama Korakuen is one of Japan's "Three Great Gardens," along with Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Kairakuen in Mito. This historic garden, created over 300 years ago by Lord Ikeda Tsunamasa, is renowned for its spacious lawns, scenic ponds, and traditional tea houses. The garden beautifully incorporates seasonal changes, making each visit unique—from vibrant cherry blossoms in spring to the fiery colors of autumn leaves. With Okayama Castle in the backdrop, Korakuen offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm, making it an essential stop for travelers.

Himeji Castle, often called the "White Heron Castle" for its elegant white appearance, is one of Japan’s most stunning and well-preserved castles. Built in the early 17th century, it has withstood centuries of wars, natural disasters, and modernization, making it a testament to the craftsmanship and resilience of Japanese architecture. Visiting the castle offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past and the legacy of the lords who once ruled the region.

Day 18: Himieji Castle (Overnight in Osaka)

Osaka is a vibrant and bustling city, known for its lively atmosphere, modern skyline, and rich culinary scene. As Japan's third-largest city, it is a hub of commerce and entertainment, offering visitors a mix of attractions such as the historic Osaka Castle and the dazzling lights of Dotonbori. Known as the "Nation’s Kitchen" during the Edo period for its central role in trade and commerce, Osaka has been a vital center of activity for centuries.

Day 19: Osaka — Nara — Osaka (Overnight in Osaka)

Nara is a city deeply rooted in history, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and ancient landmarks. Being the first permanent capital of Japan, it is home to numerous significant historical sites. The most famous attraction in Nara is perhaps the sacred deer of Nara Park, where visitors are allowed to interact with friendly, free-roaming deer. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara encompasses eight places in the old capital Nara, which includes temples, shrines and ruins. Three of these (Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha, Kokufuji) are located in the Nara Park. Enjoy the stroll with your new deer friends as you enjoy the historically significant buildings around the area.

 Flight back home

A private car charter with TokudAw turns your ancestry journey into a precious memory. You get the freedom to explore hidden corners of Japan without the hassle of public transport, allowing you to soak into the experience.