Exploring Japan with Brazil’s Joyful Spirit: Taste, Culture, Craft, and Zest for Life

On the first morning, we will meet the Japas trio in the hotel lobby and head out to immerse ourselves in the reverent atmosphere of Meiji Shrine, where tranquility graces the heart of the bustling metropolis. It offers a serene change of pace from the city before you venture onto the lively streets of Harajuku. We will turn our focus to food and explore and savor whatever piques your interest from crêpes to rice flour dumplings and cotton candy.

After lunch, we will set out with the trio to explore the Japan Folk Crafts Museum, a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the beauty of everyday handmade objects from across Japan. Founded under the vision of Yanagi Sōetsu, known as the father of the mingei (folk craft) movement in Japan, the museum offers a deep insight into the philosophy and history behind these crafts. We will arrange for a specially curated tour, offering their unique perspective on mingei (folk crafts), its history, and its place within Japanese culture today.

The evening kicks off with a lively welcome party, inspired by the vibrant nights of Brazil — a joyful celebration to mark the start of your journey.

After breakfast, we will visit Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, located in Asakusa. Don’t miss the chance to draw a good omikuji fortune. Around the temple, you will find traditional shops with delightful local sweets and snacks. Next, we will visit Kappabashi, an 800-meter stretch with over 170 stores offering culinary supplies for professionals and home cooks. After heading to Tsukiji, we will join a sushi-making class, learning directly from a skilled sushi chef how to craft the perfect sushi with a selection of toppings.

You’re free to choose your own dinner. Explore a range of dining experiences, from casual izakayas to Michelin-starred establishments. Discover unique restaurants tailored to your palate and enjoy a delightful meal.

Leaving the city behind, we’ll spend the day exploring one of Tokyo’s most scenic hidden corners—Tama. From quiet mountains to riverside paths, this area offers a slower pace and deep connection to nature.

One of the day’s highlights will be Ozawa Sake Brewery, a 300-year-old maker surrounded by rivers and green mountains—where centuries of craftsmanship meet the calm of the forested hills. You’ll be guided by the 23rd-generation owner, who shares the story behind this historic brewery.

Lunch is served at L'Arbre, a welcoming French restaurant featuring seasonal dishes made with local ingredients.

Enjoy a calm breakfast before embarking on a journey to Naoshima. After riding the Shinkansen and gliding across the Inland Sea by ferry, we’ll arrive at an island where world-class museums, open-air art, and natural beauty weave together into an unforgettable cultural experience. Keep an eye out for the beloved giant pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama, a whimsical landmark set against the sparkling sea.

From there, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy your “me time.” Explore art installations where you can even soak in an art-inspired public bath house, savor fresh seafood crafted from Setouchi ingredients, and discover local treats like craft beer, as well as ice cream and doughnuts made with sun-dried salt harvested from Naoshima's seawater. Delight in a full day of art, flavors, and freedom.

We will take a road trip to visit Inoue Koji in Shimanto, Kochi—a carefully selected spot by our dear friend, a fermentation expert. Explore a workshop run by a mother-daughter duo, where they manage the shop with dedication, using traditional methods passed down through generations. Learn about the time-honored process of making koji and how it’s used to craft traditional miso, a staple of the local food culture.

The evening is yours to enjoy as you wish, so feel free to have dinner on your own. We’ll meet again the following morning and head to Fukuoka for our next adventure. Fukuoka’s vibrant streets are known for their close-knit atmosphere, where customers and shopkeepers interact easily. The city's lively street food culture offers a chance to enjoy Hakata’s famous delicacies at cozy food stalls.

From the calm rhythms of Kochi to the vibrant buzz of Fukuoka, today is a journey through contrast. After arriving in the city, enjoy a hearty local lunch before heading out to wander Dazaifu’s shrine and snack street, where spirituality meets sweetness. Otherwise, enjoy a restful pause before the night’s festivities.

As dusk falls, it’s time for a toast. Check in and recharge. Then join the pulse of Fukuoka’s nightlife: bar-hop your way through Tenjin, with stops at hidden gems recommended by the Japas trio, where the beer takes center stage in a lively atmosphere.

Fukuoka’s craftsmanship awaits in the morning with an exclusive Mingei tour of local folk crafts led by a guide deeply familiar with the area. In the afternoon, take a moment for yourself, with free time to shop, explore, and find the perfect souvenir. We’ll provide you with a handpicked guidebook curated by the Japas trio and us, featuring the best spots for your personal exploration. The evening concludes with a farewell dinner, cherishing the experiences shared.

It’s time to bid farewell. Carry the memorable experiences in your hearts until our paths cross again. The tour will conclude after breakfast. If you plan to stay a few extra days, we can provide you with some tips on places to explore.