The Crafty Squirrel Kyoto Tour - 13 to 22 Oct 2026
Join us on our much loved Kyoto & Beyond Craft focused tour in 2026. Have you always wanted to visit Japan - have a slight obsession with cute things, enjoy fossicking at flea markets and love CRAFT? Then this tour is for you!
Morgan Wills has spent numerous years obsessed with all things Japan and has been travelling there for 20+ years. Many of the unique goods in her studio shop – The Crafty Squirrel have been sourced in her travels there.
This tour is ideal for first time visitors or those who love getting crafty and making things. Join Morgan on her insider’s tour of the best art, craft and vintage finds in Kyoto & beyond.
Travel for 9 nights on a fully escorted tour with a small group of up to 12 creative women. Individual travelers and friends are welcome to travel together. Morgan’s aim is to give you a taste of what is on offer “craft wise” in this fabulous city and beyond. No matter what your interest, you’re sure to find something you can’t go home without and learn some new crafts while you are at it.
Tour Highlights
• Kyoto’s Hidden Gems: Explore artisan shops, bustling craft markets, and tranquil temples.
• Hands-On Workshops: Create your own Goshuin temple stamp book, try Furoshiki wrapping, Ikebana flower demonstration, Sashiko stitching, Temari thread balls, and Aizome (indigo dyeing).
• Art Island Experience: Discover Naoshima’s world-renowned museums, including the Chichu Art Museum and Yayoi Kusama’s Yellow Pumpkin.
• Cultural Encounters: Enjoy a private dinner with a Maiko (Geisha apprentice) in Kyoto’s historic Pontocho district.
• Curated Dining: Savor Japanese cuisine from lively izakayas to elegant bento box lunches.
• Comfort & Convenience: Stay in stylish, well-located hotels and travel by private bus for a seamless experience.
Total Tour cost: $11,995
Payment details:
Initial non-refundable deposit of $995 (less the $50 paid for expression of interest) to secure a place (by direct transfer)
Payment Schedule:
• Deposit — $995 (or $495 if $500 holding fee paid)
• 1st payment — $3,500 due 28 February 2026
• 2nd payment — $4,500 due 31 May 2026
• Final payment — $3,000 due 31 August 2026, along with any adjustment for currency fluctuation (if applicable).
*Please note: Return airfares (Qantas) are not included.
THE FINE PRINT!
To secure your place, a non-refundable deposit of $995 is payable to The Crafty Squirrel upon a minimum number of participants (9) expression of interest.
We fly with Qantas and you are welcome to travel with us or meet us at the hotel in Kyoto at the beginning of the tour. Return travel dates is at your discretion.
Personal, adequate travel insurance is essential for all participants. A good level of fitness is essential, and we ask that you have no preexisting medical issues that may inhibit you from actively participating in the tour. You will need to be able to undertake walking tours of 2-4 hours duration, including using stairs, walking over cobblestones and other uneven surfaces. You may need to stand for long periods in museums and other sites. You must be able to embark/disembark coaches and other methods of transportation without assistance. You must be able to handle your own luggage. We may occasionally sit on the floor for meals and activities. If you have any dietary requirements you must discuss these with the us prior to paying your deposit. Allergies and food intolerances can not always be catered for. Prior to departure, you’ll need to register with Visit Japan Web to complete immigration and customs questionnaires. This will generate a QR code which you will need to show upon arrival in Japan. Temporary stay visas are issued when you arrive in Japan for up to 90 days, your passport must have at least 6 months validity at the time of travel to be granted entry.
Please note: Tour prices are subject to change and dependent on the exchange rate and/or unexpected local cost changes. If the variance goes above 3% difference, there may be an additional amount included in your final payment instalment.
In order to travel on the tour you will need to sign a Terms & Conditions agreement and indemnity form.
For more information or any questions, please email Morgan [email protected]