Wabi-Sabi Japan

Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese concept with various interpretations but those that resonate deeply are rustic elegance, quiet taste, refined beauty and the belief that objects gain value through use and age. Wabi-Sabi is authentic, unpretentious and connected to nature. Its values were influential when we established Wabi-Sabi Japan and continue to inspire us today.

Our passion is to provide intimate experiences in areas of Japan never frequented by foreign travellers or domestic tour groups. In the more remote regions our extensive knowledge of hidden routes and special relationships with local friends allow our guests to explore a traditional way of life that even most Japanese have not observed. This does not mean we don’t appreciate the vibrancy of Tokyo or the charms of historic Kyoto. It does mean our insider access enables you to see aspects of those cities visitors rarely witness.

We also understand that hospitality is a refined art in Japan and for some the most vivid memories will be of exclusive ryokans (luxurious traditional inns), private hot spring baths and the subtle flavours of intricately presented meals.

An Eclectic Mix: Wabi-Sabi Japan is an eclectic mix of people who care deeply about Japan and share a desire to reveal the beauty and special culture of this extraordinary land. 

Guiding from the Heart: Our Japanese guides have very diverse backgrounds and come from various corners of the country and Japanese society. Most lead only a select number of trips each year; they guide because they want to not because they have to.  

Artistry and Tradition: Most of our local friends come from a family tradition, whether they are a 14th generation sake maker, 5th generation potter or a priest whose family has been caretakers of a Buddhist temple for over 500 years. They are generally not associated with tourism and we respect their positions and privacy by strictly limiting the number of guests we introduce to them. 

Exclusive Accommodation: While enjoying excellent relations with all the top international hotels, we specialize in providing access to exclusive ryokans (luxurious traditional inns). It is often difficult for even Japanese to obtain reservations at these establishments but in a land where connections trump currency, our friendships with the ryokan owners are invaluable. 

The Original Iron Chefs: Food is a healthy obsession in Japan and while Tokyo has the most Michelin stars of any city in the world, many Tokyoites (and most Japanese) will make pilgrimages across the country in search of local delicacies or famous restaurants. We have selected some of our regional favourites and the chefs relish the opportunity to expand even the most worldly of palates.

Crafting Your Journey

One of a Kind: Wabi-Sabi Japan crafts unique, customized trips for small private groups. Like handmade Japanese pottery, each itinerary is distinct; whether for an individual, couple, family or a gathering of close friends. 

The Right Trip: We don't follow templates or try to fit you into previously created itineraries. We encourage you to provide us with your preferences, interests, needs and any specific destinations you want to visit. This communication proves invaluable as we shape your personalized departure.

Connected: We have been organizing special itineraries in Japan for many years and have developed lasting friendships with artists, chefs, owners of the top ryokans (luxurious traditional inns), head priests and a variety of fascinating characters. We combine these personal connections with the perspective and knowledge of our guides to reveal the true nature of Japan to a limited number of guests each year. 

Excellence & Exceptional Value: Our trips provide the finest accommodation, cuisine, transport and guides. Our choices are based on excellence not reputation and the highest quality not the highest price. We work directly with our contacts allowing us to deliver exceptional value. 

Flexibility, Expertise & Commitment: The keys to our success are respect, attention to details and deep knowledge; however, the magic we create also comes from following our instincts. These often lead us to make subtle refinements while the trip is in progress and this capability highlights the greatest feature of our private trips; flexibility. Flexibility ultimately depends on knowing the region intimately and in this regard we have no peers. This expertise and our commitment to our clients make Wabi-Sabi Japan the leading provider of high end travel services in Japan.