The Crafty Squirrel Tokyo Tour - 6 to 18 May 2026 - ONE SPOT LEFT!

Tokyo & Beyond – A Creative Escape to Japan | 2026

Have you always dreamed of visiting Japan? Love cute things, rummaging through flea markets, and getting hands-on with craft? Then this brand-new Tokyo & Beyond tour is made for you!
Join Morgan Wills – designer, maker, and owner of the much-loved studio shop The Crafty Squirrel – on a 12-night creative journey through Tokyo and beyond.
With over 20 years of travel experience in Japan and a deep love for its art, textiles, and traditions, Morgan has curated an insider’s tour full of handmade magic, vintage treasures, and inspiring encounters.
This small group tour (maximum 12 guests) is perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned Japan lovers keen to experience the country through a crafty lens. Whether you're travelling solo or with a friend, you’ll feel right at home.
Explore local artisans’ studios, shop unique handmade finds, try your hand at traditional crafts, and soak up the charm of Japan’s most beautiful cultural cities. You’re bound to return with a suitcase full of inspiration—and maybe a few irresistible keepsakes too.

TOUR SNAPSHOT - 6 to 18 May 2026
Wednesday - Fly to Tokyo and transfer to our Shinjuku hotel to settle in and prepare for the creative journey ahead.
Thursday - Explore Shinjuku’s quirky backstreets, make your own goshuincho stamp book, and enjoy a Welcome Dinner.
Friday - Visit the Tokyo Hobby Fair and learn miniature basket weaving.
Saturday - Join an indigo dyeing workshop, then visit Sensoji Temple for your first temple stamp.
Sunday - Create a tsumami zaiku flower and experience the immersive TeamLab Azabudai.
Monday - Travel by bullet train to Kanazawa, stencil dye a kimono piece, and stroll through Kenroku-en Garden.
Tuesday - Stitch a temari ball, paint a kokeshi doll, and explore Kanazawa’s Samurai District.
Wednesday - Visit Ainokura village for a washi paper workshop, then arrive in Takayama.
Thursday - Practice Japanese calligraphy and browse Takayama’s retro shops and the Showa Museum.
Friday - Travel back to Shinjuku by bus and enjoy a relaxed afternoon.
Saturday - Make a traditional Kimekomi doll and explore Nippori Textile Town.
Sunday - Fossick for treasures at a Tokyo flea market before our joyful
Farewell Dinner.
Monday - Check out and depart — or continue exploring Japan at your own pace

Tokyo Craft Tour Price Includes:
• 12 nights single room hotel accommodation in central Tokyo, Kanazawa & Takayama
• 12 breakfast + 2 lunch + 4 dinner - includes Welcome &Farewell dinner
• All tours and transfers with English speaking guides
• Shrine/Temple, Museum, Art Gallery & Garden entry tickets
• 10 x workshops – goshuin, basket making, indigo, Tsumami zaiku, yuzen kimono workshop, temari workshop, Kokeshi workshop, Washi paper making, calligraphy, Kimekomi doll making.
• All bus/ferry/train travel as required

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).

Additional payments in 3 instalments:
1st payment - $4,000 due by 22 September 2025
2nd payment - $3,500 due by 30 November 2025
3rd and final payment - $3500 due by 16 March 2026
Depart on tour – Wednesday 6 May 2026

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. The balance of payment is then made in three parts.

You are welcome to travel with us as a group (or meet us there) on the flight over with return travel dates at your discretion. Personal, adequate travel insurance is essential for all to participate.

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. 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]