October 26 - November 6, 2027
Join us in 12 Days In Japan: Autumn Colors & Culture on
12 Days In Japan: Autumn Colors & Culture
Experience Japan in autumn through scenic rail journeys, incredible food, cultural immersion, and elevated National Geographic Journeys experiences with Pride Adventures.
From Tokyo to Tsumago, Kanazawa, Hiroshima, and Kyoto, this small group journey blends iconic highlights with deeper regional experiences, thoughtful pacing, and the welcoming community Pride Adventures is known for.
Hosted by Pride Adventures trip host Kevin Smith and led by an expert National Geographic Journeys CEO, this adventure is designed for connection, ease, and unforgettable discovery.
Watch highlights from our March 2026 Japan Express journey with Pride Adventures below.
Our Journey Through Japan Begins Here
Japan in autumn feels cinematic. Temple gardens glow with red and gold leaves, mountain towns move at a quieter rhythm, and cool evenings invite long dinners, lantern lit walks, and meaningful connection.
This upgraded National Geographic Journeys itinerary is built for travelers who want more than a highlights tour. Along the way, we’ll ride bullet trains, stay in elevated accommodations, explore historic districts and sacred temples, and experience Japan through food, tradition, and local culture.
Pride Adventures adds our own hosted welcome and farewell dinners, included base tips, curated community moments, and support from trip host Kevin Smith before, during, and after the journey.
TRIP HOST
Kevin Smith - West Hollywood, CA
Kevin serves as Adventure Director | Customer Experience Officer, working closely with travelers before and during trips to support bookings, logistics, and the overall travel experience while staying connected to our community.
Kevin Smith - West Hollywood, CA Bio
Kevin is a trusted trip host and operations leader known for exceptional organization, meticulous planning, and a strong focus on traveler experience. He has hosted Pride Adventures and CGA trips to Costa Rica, South Africa, Lake Powell, along with numerous camping, hiking, and community adventures. In 2027, Kevin will be joining Pride Adventures full time, hosting and supporting several upcoming trips.
As Chris’s brother and a core member of the Pride Adventures leadership team, Kevin oversees sales and customer experience on the operations side, helping ensure every trip runs smoothly from the first inquiry through the journey home. He thrives on managing details, logistics, and behind-the-scenes coordination so travelers can focus on connection, adventure, and enjoyment.
Kevin’s background includes designing custom tours, curating private and small-group travel, and supporting a wide range of experiences, from adventure-focused itineraries to more complex, logistics-driven trips. His approach is thoughtful, calm, and highly detail-oriented, making him a steady and approachable presence for travelers.
Itinerary Overview
Experience Japan through a culturally rich journey from Tokyo to Kyoto, traveling by bullet train, local rail, ferry, metro, taxi, public bus, and on foot. This National Geographic Journeys itinerary blends Japan’s modern energy, preserved historic towns, samurai heritage, sacred temples, coastal scenery, and meaningful cultural experiences.
Along the way, we’ll explore Tokyo’s traditional and modern neighborhoods, stay in a traditional inn in Tsumago, discover Kanazawa’s samurai and geisha districts, reflect at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, visit Miyajima Island, and end with three nights in Kyoto, including Nara, Zen meditation, calligraphy, and a Kembu masters experience.
Days 1–3: Tokyo
Arrive in Tokyo and settle into Japan’s vibrant capital. The journey begins with an evening welcome meeting where travelers meet the National Geographic Journeys CEO and fellow travelers. Pride Adventures will also include our own welcome dinner to help bring the group together.
Over the next two days, we’ll explore Tokyo by public transit and on foot, visiting Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Tsukiji Outer Market, and Asakusa. One of the signature National Geographic Journeys moments is a Tsukiji sushi experience, where travelers learn about fresh ingredients and sushi preparation before enjoying their own creations.
Transportation: Metro, walking
Stay: Premier Hotel Cabin President Tokyo or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast on Days 2 and 3, lunch on Day 3, Pride Adventures welcome dinner
Highlights: Welcome meeting, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Tsukiji Outer Market, sushi making experience, Asakusa, Sensoji Temple
Day 4: Tokyo to Tsumago
Depart Tokyo by train and continue into the mountains toward Tsumago, a beautifully preserved post town dating back to the Edo period. After arriving, we’ll walk through the countryside, passing farms and rural landscapes before exploring the quiet streets of Tsumago.
This evening includes a traditional kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal known for seasonal ingredients and thoughtful presentation. Travelers will stay in a traditional Japanese inn, offering a deeper connection to regional Japan.
Transportation: Metro, train, walking
Stay: Hanaya Tsumago Ryokan or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Highlights: Scenic train travel, Tsumago countryside walk, preserved Edo-period village, traditional inn stay, kaiseki dinner.
Days 5–6: Kanazawa
Continue by train to Kanazawa, a historic city known for samurai heritage, geisha culture, gardens, and traditional craftsmanship. We’ll explore Nagamachi Samurai District and visit the Nomura Family Samurai Residence, a restored home with antique heirlooms and a beautiful garden.
The following day includes Myoryuji Temple, often called the Ninja Temple, along with the Higashi Chaya geisha district. Travelers will also take part in a hands-on chopstick and gold leaf painting experience, highlighting one of Kanazawa’s most celebrated craft traditions.
Transportation: Train, taxi, local bus, walking
Stay: ANA Crowne Plaza Kanazawa or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast daily
Highlights: Nagamachi Samurai District, Nomura Samurai Residence, Myoryuji Ninja Temple, Higashi Chaya geisha district, gold leaf chopstick painting, free time in Kanazawa
Days 7–8: Hiroshima & Miyajima
Travel by bullet train to Hiroshima, where we’ll visit Peace Memorial Park and the Peace Memorial Museum. This is one of the most meaningful and reflective portions of the journey, offering time to understand the city’s history and its ongoing message of peace.
The next day, take a ferry to Miyajima Island, home to Itsukushima Shrine and the famous floating torii gate. The afternoon is free to explore the island, wander shrine pathways, enjoy local treats, or take in views of the surrounding coast.
Transportation: Train, tram, ferry, walking
Stay: ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast daily
Highlights: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Peace Memorial Museum, Children’s Peace Monument, Miyajima Island, Itsukushima Shrine, floating torii gate, free time on Miyajima
Days 9–11: Kyoto & Nara
Travel from Hiroshima to Kyoto, stopping along the way to visit Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most spectacular and best-preserved castles. After arriving in Kyoto, we’ll explore the Gion geisha district and settle into the final chapter of the journey.
During our time in Kyoto, we’ll visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, take a day trip to Nara to see Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and experience some of the itinerary’s most memorable National Geographic Journeys moments. These include Zen Buddhist meditation and calligraphy, a traditional matcha tea experience, Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, and a Kembu masters sword performance and lesson.
Pride Adventures will also include a farewell dinner in Kyoto to celebrate the journey together.
Transportation: Bullet train, train, walking, local transit
Stay: Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast daily, Pride Adventures farewell dinner
Highlights: Himeji Castle, Gion walk, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara, Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Zen meditation, calligraphy, matcha tea, Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, Kembu masters experience, farewell dinner
Day 12: Departure from Kyoto
Depart Kyoto at any time. Most travelers will likely use one of the Osaka area airports, though round trip flights through Tokyo may also be possible by taking the Shinkansen bullet train back to Tokyo and continuing to the airport.
Travelers may also choose to add optional post trip nights in Kyoto. Pride Adventures can help arrange post night hotels at the ending hotel or assist with alternate hotel options.
Transportation: On your own
Included Meals: Breakfast
Highlights: Departure day, optional Kyoto post night stay, onward travel support
Booking Options
Choose the option that fits your travel style. Whether you prefer to share the experience with a roommate or enjoy your own private space, both options include the full itinerary, National Geographic Journeys experiences, Pride Adventures hosting, added group meals, included base tips, and the same welcoming group experience.
Your trip price includes more than the base itinerary. Pride Adventures adds a dedicated trip host, private welcome and farewell dinners, included base tips, pre-trip communication, optional pre and post-night support, and the added value of traveling through Japan with a hosted LGBTQ+ group from the start.
Shared Room | We Can Match You
$8,499
Traveling solo? No problem. We can match you with another traveler in our group.
Shared rooms are also a great option for close friends and couples who want to experience the journey together while keeping costs lower.
Private Room | Your Own Space
$10,399
Enjoy your own private room throughout the trip.
This option is perfect if you prefer more space and privacy while still being fully part of the group experience.
Note: Private rooms are limited on this itinerary and include an additional $1,899 private room supplement.
Signature Experiences
Tokyo Sushi & Market Experience
Explore Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji Outer Market before joining a hands-on sushi making experience led by local experts. Learn about the traditions, precision, and artistry behind one of Japan’s most iconic culinary experiences before enjoying your own creations.
Tsumago & Traditional Kaiseki Dining
Step into the preserved mountain village of Tsumago, where historic wooden buildings and quiet walking paths offer a glimpse into old Japan. In the evening, enjoy a beautifully prepared kaiseki dinner featuring regional seasonal specialties.
Kanazawa’s Samurai & Artisan Traditions
Discover Kanazawa through its samurai heritage, geisha districts, traditional craftsmanship, and celebrated gardens. This experience includes a hands-on gold leaf chopstick painting activity inspired by one of the city’s most famous artistic traditions.
Hiroshima & Miyajima Island
Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum for a meaningful look at one of the most important moments in modern history before taking a ferry to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic floating torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine.
Kyoto Temples & Sacred Sites
Explore some of Japan’s most treasured spiritual landmarks, including Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, Todaiji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. These experiences highlight the architecture, traditions, and cultural depth that define historic Japan.
Zen Meditation & Samurai Arts
Experience Kyoto through immersive cultural traditions including Zen Buddhist meditation, Japanese calligraphy, a traditional matcha tea experience, and a Kembu masters sword performance and lesson inspired by the discipline and artistry of the samurai tradition.
Why Travel with Pride Adventures?
Travel is about where you go, but it is just as much about who you go with. With Pride Adventures, this Japan journey becomes more than a beautiful itinerary. It becomes a hosted group experience designed to feel welcoming, connected, and easy from the moment you arrive.
Pride Adventures adds a dedicated trip host, private welcome and farewell dinners, included base tips, pre trip communication, and thoughtful group moments throughout the journey. The result is a more seamless experience where you can relax, show up as yourself, and fully enjoy Japan with a community around you.
Photo: Our group experience in Hakone, Japan in March 2026
More Than A Tour
Pride Adventures creates hosted LGBTQ+ group trips for travelers who want connection, culture, and shared discovery built into the experience. We believe the right group can turn an incredible destination into something even more memorable.
This journey combines the structure of an expert led National Geographic Journeys itinerary with the warmth and support Pride Adventures is known for. Watch our overview video to learn more about who we are and why we travel this way.
Inclusions:
What's Included:
✓ 11 nights of accommodations in Japan, including 10 nights in hotels and 1 night in a traditional inn with shared facilities, or similar
✓ 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners, including a private Welcome Dinner in Tokyo, a traditional kaiseki dinner in Tsumago, and a private Farewell Dinner in Kyoto
✓ National Geographic Journeys experience with G Adventures, including signature cultural moments throughout Japan
✓ Tsukiji sushi experience in Tokyo, including a visit to the outer market and hands-on sushi making
✓ Tokyo sightseeing, including Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa, and Sensoji Temple
✓ Tsumago countryside and village walk through a preserved Edo-period post town
✓ Kanazawa cultural experiences, including the samurai district, geisha district, Nomura Family Samurai Residence, Myoryuji Ninja Temple, and gold leaf chopstick painting
✓ Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum visit
✓ Miyajima Island excursion, including ferry travel and time to see the famous floating torii gate
✓ Himeji Castle visit en route to Kyoto
✓ Kyoto and Nara cultural touring, including Fushimi Inari, Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Gion geisha district
✓ Zen Buddhist meditation and calligraphy experience in Kyoto
✓ Traditional matcha tea experience in Kyoto
✓ Kembu Masters experience, including traditional samurai sword performance and lesson
✓ Japan Rail Pass for 7 days
✓ Transportation between destinations and to and from included activities, including bullet train, express train, local train, ferry, metro, taxi, public bus, tram, and walking
✓ Included luggage transfer service on select travel days
✓ Expert National Geographic Journeys CEO throughout the journey, along with local guides where included
✓ Pride Adventures trip host Kevin Smith traveling with the group
✓ Base tips included for the CEO, local guides, drivers, and included services
✓ Small group experience with Pride Adventures, with a maximum group size of 15
Hotel Note: Accommodations are subject to change until the tour start date and should be considered examples only. Final hotels will be confirmed closer to departure.
What's Not Included:
× International flights, including arrival into Tokyo and departure from Japan. This trip ends in Kyoto, with departures typically available from Osaka area airports or by returning to Tokyo by train for Tokyo area airports.
× Airport transfers, unless arranged separately
× Travel insurance, which is required for participation
× Meals not listed in the itinerary
× Optional activities and free time experiences not listed as included
× Pre trip and post trip hotel nights, including optional extra nights in Tokyo or Kyoto
× Personal expenses such as souvenirs, beverages, snacks, laundry, and similar items
× Additional luggage transfer fees if traveling with more than one main bag
× Additional tips for hotel staff, personal services, or optional gratuities beyond what is already included
× Transportation during independent free time or optional activities not part of the included itinerary
Physical Rating, Comfort, and Adventure:
Physical Rating: 3 Average
This trip is best for travelers who are comfortable being on their feet for much of the day. Japan is explored heavily by public transportation and walking, and travelers should expect stairs, train stations, temple grounds, city streets, and longer sightseeing days. On average, Japan tours may include around 15,000 steps per day, so comfortable walking shoes and a steady travel pace are important.
Service Level: Upgraded
This is a National Geographic Journeys experience with upgraded accommodations, included cultural moments, and an expert CEO leading the journey throughout Japan. Accommodations include 10 nights in hotels and 1 night in a traditional inn with shared facilities, or similar. Rooms in Japan can be smaller than many travelers expect, but the overall experience is designed to feel comfortable, immersive, and well supported.
Travel Style: Cultural Discovery
This journey is designed for travelers who want to experience Japan through culture, food, history, and connection. The itinerary blends iconic cities with traditional towns, scenic rail travel, hands-on experiences, sacred sites, and meaningful local discovery. From Tokyo and Tsumago to Kanazawa, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Kyoto, and Nara, this trip offers a rich and thoughtfully paced way to experience Japan in autumn.
Important Documents & Links:
JoinCGA.com – California Gay Adventures
Documents containing personal information will be delivered privately to attendees via email and/or text as the trip dates approach. For any questions, please contact chris@prideat.com.
Important Documents & Links:
We’ve included a few important links below to help you review trip details:
Japan Trip Brochure (coming soon)
Pride Adventures Japan Trip Guide (coming soon)
Adventure Updates
🟡 Trip Status: Not Yet Confirmed
This trip will be confirmed once we reach our minimum of 8 travelers.
Please do not book flights yet. We’ll notify all registered travelers as soon as the trip is officially confirmed so you can book with confidence.
🌈 Private Departure Lounge
Once the trip is confirmed, travelers will receive access to our private Travel with Pride Departure Lounge for Japan.
This will be the main place for future trip updates, flight guidance, luggage guidance, packing reminders, pre trip details, group introductions, optional meetups, and important departure information as we get closer to Japan.
🍁 Autumn In Japan
This itinerary is timed to experience Japan during the beautiful autumn season, when many regions begin to showcase vibrant fall colors, cooler temperatures, seasonal cuisine, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to spring cherry blossom season.
Autumn timing can vary slightly by region and weather patterns, but late October and early November are traditionally considered one of the best times to explore Japan.
❓ Questions?
If you have any questions, please email tripsupport@prideadventures.com.
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