Experience one of the world’s great train journeys – the TranzAlpine – and the highlights of the New Zealand’s wild West Coast, with this unforgettable 6-day journey from Christchurch to Queenstown.

See the South Island like never before with one of the Great Journeys of New Zealand. Commencing in Christchurch, step aboard the TranzAlpine and travel across the spectacular Southern Alps towards the wild West Coast. Stop off at Arthur’s Pass, the highest most spectacular pass across the Alps, and discover a landscape of two halves. On the eastern side, you will see wide, shingle-filled riverbeds and vast swathes of beech forest. Descend on the western side and you venture through dense rainforest alongside and over deeply gorged rivers. Your local knowledgeable guide will take you hiking to see the highlights.

Continue to the West Coast and into glorious Glacier Country. Create your own unforgettable Glacier Country experience from the wealth of things to do in Franz Josef, Fox Glacier, Okarito and the surrounding area. From the highest mountains, largest ice rivers, rainforests, dramatic beaches and everything in between – this special part of New Zealand ticks all the boxes.

Cap off your journey with an immersive wilderness experience at Lake Moeraki. Explore rainforest trails, hike the spectacular seacoast and enjoy tranquil lake kayaking. Learn New Zealand’s fascinating natural history and see dolphins, penguins, fur seals and other rare wildlife. Lake Moeraki is truly a paradise for nature lovers, active travellers and wilderness seekers.

This fully escorted 6-day journey includes 5-nights’ accommodation at the luxury nature lodges and hotels on a twin share basis. The Wilderness Lodges boast stylish accommodation, gourmet food, fine wine and warm kiwi hospitality, while the 4-star Scenic Hotel Franz Josef offers everything you need to be able to explore the Glacier Country in comfort and style. One way ticket aboard the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass is included along with travel by deluxe minivan. All meals provided.

Embark on a world-famous train journey to discover New Zealand’s West Coast, on this fully escorted 6-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown. Experience nature in style at the country’s only 2 wilderness lodges.

Tour also runs in reverse.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Bike and hike the best of the South Island on this action-packed 12-day self-drive road trip including the Alps To Ocean, Roxburgh Gorge, Otago Central Rail Trail, Routeburn Track, Queenstown Trail, Rob Roy Glacier and Hooker Valley.

Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, shimmering lakes, lush rainforests, fast-moving glaciers and more. For the outdoor enthusiast, keen on hiking and biking, the North Island New Zealand has no shortage of things to see and do. Home of the Great Walks and Rides (known to be some of the best hikes and rides in the world) and many other exciting activities, you could spend months trying to see it all. Luckily for you, this road trip offers the best of the South Island on two feet – and two wheels! 

Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to see and experience the splendor of the South Island. Stretch the laces on your hiking boots in Mount Aspiring National Park and the Mount Cook region, home to unforgettable walks including the Routeburn, Rob Roy Glacier and Hooker Valley Tracks. Cycle the South Island’s Great Rides including the Alps To Ocean, Roxburgh Gorge, Otago Central Rail Trail and Queenstown Trail. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to explore vibrant cities and towns, and learn about New Zealand’s fascinating pioneering and gold mining history.

This thrilling 12-day hiking- and biking-focused self-drive package includes 11-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools and spas. Twelve days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeing as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast and some meals provided.

Embrace the great outdoors on this exhilarating 12-day self-drive road trip. This package is perfect for active couples and families seeking the South Island’s ultimate hiking and biking experiences .

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Experience the glorious sounds, sights, rhythm, and beauty of the Asama Onsen district at Matsumoto Jujo Hotel, where warmth and prime hospitality are hallmarks. Carefully laid in a strategic part of the city, the retreat is a short distance from landmarks and fascinating attractions such as the Matsumoto Alps Park, Timepiece Museum, Castle, and Airport. Once here, guests have accommodation options in 38 rooms and suites split across two hotels with views of the city and mountains. All options are outfitted with a walk-in shower, hot tub, separate toilet, fridge, coffee maker, satellite TV, and some with air-conditioning. Two on-site restaurants cater to the gastronomic affairs of guests, offering Japanese and international cuisines on the principle of contentment rather than opulence. On the outdoors, guests can feel the city’s unique vibe by dining and lounging at the hotel’s two off-site cafes. Away from in-room luxuries and amenities, recline at the hotel’s garden area for an airy relaxation or at the sun terrace for city views, while the bar and lounge is a soothing atmosphere for meeting new acquaintances over a glass of wine or two. Feel renewed and vitalised in soul and body with sessions at the spa centre, where various massages and treatments pamper your body to wellness and pleasure. Venture into the city to explore its charms, marvelling at the Matsumoto Castle and going back in time at the timepiece museum, among other attractions.

* The accommodation rating and pricing is a guide only, reviewed by Onlyluxe Travel Experts. Please note that pricing can change at any time. Please contact us for exact pricing and more information.

Plunge with aplomb into the metaphorical pool of serene excellence and exquisite luxuriousness at Tobira Onsen Myojinkan. Launched in 1931 in Matsumoto City, it is strategically planted in the nucleus of the Japanese Northern Alps, whose mountainous peaks are objects of veneration and pilgrimage. A member of Relais & Chateaux, this oasis offers therapeutic, delightful views of soul-calming, picturesque snowy peaks in winter, and a body-rejuvenating experience of traditional, bubbling hot springs. Tobira Onsen Myojinkan is graciously fragmented into 27 Japanese styled and 17 western styled rooms that exhibit an effortless, harmonious amalgamation of modernistic amenities and traditional Japanese furnishings. Experience grand hospitality as you savour delectable portions of sophisticated Kaiseki-style food, which is a marvellous blend of textures, flavours and colours at Shinshu Dining TOBIRA. Creatively fashioned from traditional Japanese ingredients by recognized culinarians such as Masahiro Tanabe, are French cuisines, at the Nature French SAI restaurant. Indulge in relishing exquisite wines and drinkables, whilst being guided by experienced sommelier: Masashi Kurihara. Relieve yourself of daily tension by immersing in the warm, restorative waters of hot spring baths at the spa, while also appreciating the expansive, soul-refreshing view of the surrounding nature, making indelible memories. Unprecedented tranquility awaits at this heavenly oasis nestled amongst Japan’s famous mountains.

* The accommodation rating and pricing is a guide only, reviewed by Onlyluxe Travel Experts. Please note that pricing can change at any time. Please contact us for exact pricing and more information.

Embark on the Iseji Route of the Kumano Kodo for a transformative 5-day pilgrimage that blends spiritual depth with Japan’s stunning landscapes. This semi-guided journey offers the perfect balance of expert support and personal freedom, allowing you to explore sacred paths while connecting with the divine and ancient prayers. Enjoy the wisdom and beauty of the Iseji pilgrimage with the flexibility to immerse yourself fully in its transcendent experience.

Your adventure kicks off in Ise, where you’ll savor a delightful lunch in Okage Yokocho before embarking on a tour of the Ise Grand Shrine and its Inner Sanctuary. Experience the spiritual resonance of a kagura dance dedicated to the gods. Next, journey to Futami Okitama Shrine in Futamiura Park to marvel at the iconic Meoto-iwa (wedded rocks). Hike the tranquil Magose-toge Pass on ancient cobblestones, and return to the serene Oase Seaside View. With a private guide, tackle the stunning Yakiyama-toge Pass. Then, transfer to Odomari Station and set out to conquer the Matsumoto-toge Pass. Discover the dramatic Onigajo (Demon’s Castle) and visit the historic Hana no Iwaya Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest. Take a bus to Daimon-zaka and ascend the 600-meter staircase leading to Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the revered Kumano grand shrines. Explore Seiganto-ji, a 5th-century Tendai Buddhist temple with ancient charm. Conclude your journey with a bus ride to Kii-Katsuura and a train to Kyoto or Shin-Osaka, marking the end of your unforgettable adventure.

The trip includes 4 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis. Luggage transfer services are included. A mix of private-guided and self-guided walks with a detailed itinerary intentionally curated to give you the best experience on the trail.

Immerse yourself fully in the profound wisdom and beauty of the Iseji pilgrimage, embracing a journey of transcendence where every moment resonates with the profound beauty of nature and the sacred.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Subscribe to an experience of charming hospitality, tranquillity, and well-being at Sowaka, a remodelled ryokan in Kyoto, where everything, including its name, exudes happiness. Nestled between Gion and Yasaka, this new retreat displays nostalgic charm and contemporary elegance within its green courtyards and stately rooms. Guests will find cosy comfort across 23 rooms and suites in its main and annexe buildings, lavishly adorned with local interior decor accents while featuring amenities such as air-conditioning, minibars, king & queen beds, refrigerators, ensuite bathrooms with bathtubs and showers, Wi-Fi, and some rooms with open-air baths. The La Bombance Gion restaurant lies at the heart of gastronomic affairs in the ryokan, dishing out stunning Japanese fares created from freshly plucked regional produce. A well-stocked bar ensures guests can quench their thirst with fine cocktails and exotic drinks, while the lobby lounge is for socialising, relaxing, and thumbing through its book collection with a cocktail in hand. Feel the gentle breeze of Kyoto trigger goosebumps on your skin on the rooftop balcony as you admire the scenery of Kyoto. A Japanese garden is within the hotel's confines to explore and admire its flora, and when in the mood to relax like royalty, soak in one of the open-air bathtubs. Venture outside your door to explore numerous attractions, with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kiyomizudera Temple as a foremost, must-visit destination.

* The accommodation rating and pricing is a guide only, reviewed by Onlyluxe Travel Experts. Please note that pricing can change at any time. Please contact us for exact pricing and more information.

Embark on an extraordinary adventure aboard the Coral Geographer ship to explore Japan's captivating Ryukyu Islands. This immersive journey promises a wealth of insights into the region's nature, culture, and vibrant communities, offering a rare opportunity to discover these unexplored sites.

Your voyage begins in the bustling city of Fukuoka before setting sail on the Coral Geographer for Nagasaki, a city steeped in history. Here, you'll delve into the wartime past, admire internationally influenced architecture, and explore traditional shrines and temples. As you venture deeper into the remote Okinawan Islands, you'll encounter the unique lifestyles of those who rely on the sea for their livelihood, immersing yourself in the fascinating fishing village of Suwanosejima.

The Ryukyu Islands are brimming with ancient mythical legends, and you'll have the chance to uncover the captivating tales tied to Okinoerabujima. Additionally, the Kerama Islands will unveil pristine marine ecosystems, where you can witness the vibrant underwater world through activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and diving.

Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the enchanting woodland of Yakujima, where towering cedars create a breathtaking ambiance. Explore the untouched forested scenery of Iriomote Island, gliding through its waterways on a mesmerising kayak adventure. Marvel at the awe-inspiring strombolian eruptions of passing volcanic landscapes, witnessing nature's raw power and beauty.

As you navigate through this region rarely visited by Western travelers, you'll have the unique privilege of experiencing traditional island lifestyles. Step ashore on the remote Ryukyu Islands and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of these coastal communities. Stroll through UNESCO-listed thousand-year-old cedar forests, where you'll encounter a majestic 25-meter-tall giant cedar tree estimated to be up to 7,200 years old.

In Naha Island, Okinawa, you'll have the opportunity to try your hand at glassmaking in the traditional Ryukyu style and witness the ancient practice of Hanhaui textile weaving, which has been handed down for over 600 years. Delight in an after-dark stargazing experience from the Astronomical observation tower on Hateruma Island, marveling at the glittering night sky.

Throughout your journey, all meals are included, ensuring that you can savour the flavors of the region without worry. Keep an eye out for rare endemic wildlife, including Ludith's Jay and the Amami black rabbit, adding a touch of wonder to your exploration. Immerse yourself in the captivating history and culture of the Ryukyu Islands and be serenaded by the melodies of the traditional Sanshin instrument.

Join this remarkable expedition cruise to the Ryukyu Islands and discover the hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic experiences that await you in these mesmerizing coastal communities.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Take on a defining journey through time in Aman Tokyo, a five-star luxury hotel perched atop the imposing Otemachi Tower in the prestigious financial district of Otamechi. This resort spans a fine yarn revealing the complex and intelligent architecture of the Japanese minimalist setting and encompassing wonders in all its glory. Relax and unwind in generously spaced rooms bedaubed with simplistic and affluent settings. Admire views of the city complex architecture as they come to life from above with iconic landmarks including the Imperial Palace Garden, the skyscrapers of Shinjuku, Mt Fuji on the horizon, and beyond, on sight from your room. Aman Tokyo’s rich culinary heritage is a true wonder to uncover. Fine dine here like nowhere else with thoughtfully curated meals offering a wide range of culinary immersion spanning across the simplicity of Italian cuisine, the exquisiteness of Japanese Edomae tradition to the artful creation of French pastry masterpieces. At Aman Tokyo, the experience is never complete without a soothing treatment at the luxury Aman Spa sprawling lights and intense spirit. A stay here, is your gateway for easy access to all points of interest in the city including Senso-ji Temple and the renowned Ginza shopping district.

* The accommodation rating and pricing is a guide only, reviewed by Onlyluxe Travel Experts. Please note that pricing can change at any time. Please contact us for exact pricing and more information.

Experience moments of solitude in a perfectly serene environment soothing for the soul at Amanemu. A 5-star ryokan-inspired resort located beside Ago Bay in the forested hills of Ise-Shima, Japan. Nestled within the stunning natural surroundings of lush green forests, mountains as high as the eye can see, and the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. A place to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and connect with your inner self in a quiet place. It makes a perfect haven and gateway to exploring the Ise Jingu Grand Shrine, Japan’s most sacred Shinto site, and the UNESCO Kumano Kodo ancient pilgrimage routes. Amanemu’s suites and villas feature expansive decks and private plunge-baths supplied with nutrient-rich spring water. Your tranquil escape extends with the Aman Spa boasting multiple onsets pavilions, yoga pavilion and Pilates studio combined with bespoke wellness immersions for a restorative journey; the perfect haven for a mind, body and soul detox.

* The accommodation rating and pricing is a guide only, reviewed by Onlyluxe Travel Experts. Please note that pricing can change at any time. Please contact us for exact pricing and more information.

An ultimate luxury escape to Hakone and Mt Fuji led by a Hakone born guide. Climb Mt Fuji, cruise Lake-Ashi, rejuvenate in blissful therapeutic hot springs, and relax in a luxurious ryokan. This easy to moderate tour will reward you with spellbinding nature, culture, and history of Hakone. This truly is the quintessential Japanese experience.

Hakone is about 2 hours from Tokyo and one of the best destinations to experience the beauty of Japan. Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, endowed with more than its fair share of natural beauty, Hakone is a town with water at its heart. At its centre, you’ll find the Ashino-ko lake from which Mount Fuji arises dramatically to crown the iconic mountain vistas. The town is also famous for its therapeutic hot springs, modestly luxurious ryokans, and world-class art museums.

This four day crafted itinerary combines some important tourist attractions and off-the beaten track sites. Our guide lives, works and plays in this fantastic area. He was born in Hakone, studied and worked overseas, and now calls this area home. His passion for this place and the commitment to its unique environment and wildlife is genuine. With his strong local connection, we will be able to enrich your visit with stories, guidance, and access to some of the behind-the-scene experiences. Our guide looks forward to hosting you.

You will stay at luxurious Hakone Ginyu, tucked away in the lush mountains of Hakone. The modern ryokan seamlessly blends traditional Japanese elements with modern touches, creating a feel that is part resort, part ryokan, and all luxury. Your spacious room features huge windows opening on to the lushly forested ravine, and private open-air hot springs. The breathtaking Hakone mountain views are indicative of the calming, serene stay that awaits you at Ginyu.

You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine.

The tour includes 2 nights accommodation, all meals, private guiding, all entry fees and return transfers to/from train stations.

This is the luxury escape from Tokyo replete with natural beauty and rich history. A Japan luxury adventure like none other. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.

Departure Dates

Departs daily year round on request. Minimum of 4 people required for a departure. For a private group of two guests, surcharge applies. Please contact us.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?  We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.