Autumn Gardens of Honshu

Nov 13-24, 2026

12 days | Japan | alumni UBC Travel Club

Join Gary Lewis for a captivating 12-day journey through Japan’s finest gardens during the expected height of autumn colour. Created especially for garden and plant enthusiasts, this late-November tour explores the heart of Honshu, where centuries-old horticultural traditions meet one of the most beautiful seasonal displays in the world. Vivid Japanese maples (Acer palmatum, A. japonicumds, and castle grounds into glowing tapestries of crimson, amber, and , and A. shirasawanum) transform temple paths, garden pongold.

From the graceful Edo-period gardens of Tokyo to the strolling paths of Kenrokuen in Kanazawa, and the Zen masterpieces of Kyoto, including Ginkakuji, Ryoanji, and Tenryuji, this itinerary showcases the diversity of Japanese garden design—stroll gardens, moss gardens, dry rock landscapes, and elegant temple courtyards. You'll also explore historic districts, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, and visit celebrated cultural landmarks.

Carefully paced and fully guided, the tour includes premium accommodations, private transportation, and meals at thoughtfully selected local restaurants. Timed to coincide with the final weeks of peak autumn foliage, this immersive experience offers both natural beauty and cultural depth.

Whether you're a passionate horticulturalist or simply drawn to peaceful landscapes, this is an inspiring way to witness Japan's seasonal poetry in its most vivid form.

We are offering a four-night post-trip extension to the wonderful Mount Fuji region. Please see the detailed itinerary for more information.

For travellers residing outside of Ontario, Manulife Travel Insurance is now available through alumni UBC. Please click here for more information and to protect your travel investment.

Tour Cost (per person):

C$11,995 includes taxes and gratuities

Group Size:

20 - 24 participants

What’s included: Arrival and departure airport transfers on tour start and end dates, respectively accommodations based on double occupancy in hotels listed or similar; ground transportation by private coach; all activities as described in the detailed itinerary; entrance fees to all sites visited with the group; meals as specified in the detailed itinerary; services of specialized site guides; gratuities for guides, driver, and included meals; all taxes; services of your Tour Leader Gary Lewis; fully escorted by our Japan tour guide

"The Gardens, The Geisha experience, the meals...all were wonderful!". - Vivian T.

"[Gary Lewis] Knowledgeable and competent. Agreeable to be flexible with itinerary". - Past UBC traveller

"Gary is extremely knowledgeable about the flora and he was always very helpful and informative." - Suzanne P.

"Our local guide Kim was extraordinary". - Chris A.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Activity
1	Welcome to Japan
2	Tokyo Gardens
3	Tokyo to Kanazawa
4	Samurai Culture & Hidden Gardens
5	Kanazawa to Kyoto
6	Kyoto Garden Tour (East Kyoto)
7	Arashiyama’s Natural Beauty
8	North & Central Kyoto Gardens
9	Nara’s Ancient Temples & Elegant Gardens
10	Kyoto to Okayama, visit Adachi Museum of Art
11	Okayama, Return to Tokyo & Farewell Dinner
12	Sayonara
Optional extension: Mount Fuji area

Download Itinerary

Your Tour Leader

UBC alumnus Gary Lewis is the owner of Phoenix Perennials, a cutting edge retail nursery in Vancouver, and an expert on perennials and horticulture. He is one of Canada’s most knowledgeable plant experts with a deep and special interest in rare and unusual herbaceous perennials. He recently published The Complete Book of Ground Covers.

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