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Splendours of Japan

9 Locations

13 Day Japan Tour from Tokyo to Osaka via Hiroshima

Save up to $854

East Coast USA and Canada

11 Locations

2 Countries

14 Day USA and Canada Tour starting and ending in New York

Save up to $600

Bohemian Highlights 2024

10 Locations

5 Countries

14 Day European Tour of Germany, Poland, Hungary, Austria and Czech Republic

Save up to $400

Best of Turkey

18 Locations

14 Day Turkey Tour of Istanbul, Gallipoli, Pamukkale and Cappadocia

Save up to $704

Best of France

13 Day France and Monaco Sightseeing Tour from Paris

Save up to $749

Best of Italy

15 Locations

13-Day Italy Sightseeing Tour of Rome, Lake Como and Sorrento

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Arts & culture tours inspiration

Cultural wonders, ancient traditions & local artisans

Delve into the unique cultures of the world and get a deeper insight with your Local Specialists on our art and cultural experiences. Meet with local artisans, learn how they keep their traditions alive, and witness moving cultural performances.

Stays with incredible stories

Our cultural vacations continue on well into the night, with our unique Stays with Stories. Step back in time with a stay in the lavish 17th-century Château de Beauvois in France, sleep in a room hewn out of the surrounding ancient rock in Turkey, experience genuine Japanese hospitality at a traditional ryokan in a mountain hot springs village, or stay in an old Franciscan convent in Santa Maria degli Angeli in Italy.

Witness powerful cultural rituals

Immerse yourself in ceremonies and traditions around the world with our cultural experiences. Witness the soulful ritual of Aarti on the River Ganges in India, take part in a private blessing ceremony at Wat Damnak in Cambodia, meet a Shaman who will perform an ancient Pago a la Tierra ceremony to welcome you to Peru, or watch the Grand Entrance Dance Performance at a Black Hills Pow Wow in the USA.

Connect with locals

Our cultural trips connect you with locals who share their unique customs. Witness the revival of Khmer crafts by young artisans in Siem Reap, see the delicate craft of Venetian glassblowing on Giudecca Island, learn the art of haggling at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, discover the spiritual connections the local Anangu caretakers have with the land at Uluru, or learn how local artisans make Japanese washi paper in Gokayama. 

The best local culture unlocked for you

Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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Want to learn about Black Forest craft?

Want to discover folk italian weaving, want to see lusitano horses in portugal, all you need to know about arts & culture tours, what is culture heritage tourism.

Culture heritage tourism is traveling to experience authentic food, music, clothing, stories, artifacts and activities of different countries and cultures around the world. Our arts and culture tours include cultural heritage experiences like listening to Fado music in Portugal, learning how to wear a kimono in Japan, and witnessing the flamenco in Spain.

What is the art capital of the world?

Looking for the best cities in the world for art? You can’t miss the art mecca of Paris, with over 1,000 galleries including The Louvre. You also have to visit New York for its MoMa and Guggenheim, London for its Tate Modern and National Gallery, Florence for Renaissance art, Barcelona for the works of Gaudi, Amsterdam for its iconic Dutch artists, and Singapore for its futuristic exhibitions.

Which destinations are popular for arts and cultural trips?

If you’re keen on arts tours or cultural vacations, you can’t go past destinations like Kyoto in Japan, Shanghai in China, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Hoi An in Vietnam, Wellington in New Zealand, the Northern Territory in Australia, the east coast of the USA, and European cities like Paris and Rome.

What are the top cultural trip destinations in Europe?

Our cultural tours take you to some of the top destinations in Europe where you can experience arts and cultures, including Istanbul, Vienna, Prague, Porto, Seville and of course, the cultural heavyweights like Venice, Florence and Rome of Italy and Paris and Bordeaux of France.

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We are a luxury travel company unveiling the best of Italian culture through made-to-measure itineraries . Designed by a team of destination specialists to combine exclusive access and local authenticity , our itineraries feature iconic locations , top museums , food and wine experiences .

As we are moved by a boundless love for art and by a great passion for the traditions defining our cultural heritage , we organize ad-hoc tours and activities in favorite Italian destinations focusing on the celebration of our Country’s most notable assets , without losing sight of your wishes and dreams.

With three art historians as founders and a network of the best professional guides , at Imago Artis Travel we have an extensive knowledge of the Italian heritage . Our experiences range from authentic classics to tips for connoisseurs , as we are able to unlock the doors to secret and exclusive places .

We love to listen to our guests’ wishes . Our experiences are designed to meet expectations and yet maintain something unexpected: a creative touch that makes the journey unique and personal .

Thanks to our decennial expertise we are able to manage all kinds of requests, also on short notice, and we easily deal with plans changing . We take our guests by the hand every step of the way, from early advising to 24/7 assistance throughout the whole journey.

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Unforgettable journeys, expertly crafted, extraordinary private tours, experiences, events & luxury accommodation in italy, your experts in italy, extraordinary tours, events, experiences and luxury accommodation in italy.

For over 20 years we’ve been working with Italy’s best storytellers, artisans, historians, actors, chefs and winemakers to bring you the Italy we love.

For over 20 years we’ve been working with Italy’s best storytellers, artisans, historians, actors, chefs and wine makers to bring you the Italy we love.

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Hygiene and your safety are always at the forefront. All Covid19 measures followed.

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Protecting our UNESCO heritage sites with responsible tourism.

With thousands of 5 star reviews, plus features on BBC, CNN, History Channel & more.

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Being a fully licensed Italy based company with over 20 years experience organising the very best of Italy, we can provide everything you need for a wonderful sabbatical or fabulous time working remotely in Italy.  Click here  for more details

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Our most loved tours

Small Group: Stories of the Vatican Tour + St. Peter's Basilica Access

326 reviews

Uncover the captivating stories behind every masterpiece on our small group, Skip-the-Line Vatican Tour. With groups of 10 or fewer, breeze through the entrance, getting to know your fellow explorers before delving into the Vatican Museums.This isn't an average Vatican tour. Your personalized itinerary unveils the stories, history, legends, and secrets behind the Museum's most cherished works. Guided by an expert English-speaking Vatican guide, you'll fully immerse yourself in the wonders of the Vatican Museums. Cap off your visit with a special entrance to the Sistine Chapel, where your guide will prepare you to marvel at Michelangelo's greatest masterpiece.Your insider guide ensures an optimized visit on the day of your tour, guaranteeing you witness the Vatican Museum's most significant highlights. Perfect for first-timers, the tour covers key destinations like the Pinecone Courtyard, Belvedere Courtyard, Room of the Muses, Round Room, Greek Cross Room, Candelabra Gallery, Gallery of the Tapestries, and the Gallery of the Maps during a typical Vatican tour.At the conclusion of your tour, you will enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Peter's Basilica, excluding Wednesdays and special events.

€ 149.00

Suggested by:

“The absolute best way to see the Vatican. The smaller group size makes it easy to connect with your guide and enriches the experience.”

First Access Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel + St. Peter's Basilica Access

139 reviews

Gain first access to the Vatican Museums and skip the lines. Immerse yourself in the wonders within these walls in a more intimate setting. Your experience will be elevated by an expert Vatican guide and an exclusive small group of 10 or fewer.This is no ordinary Vatican tour. Your itinerary is meticulously designed to unravel the stories, history, legends, and even secrets behind the Museum's most treasured works. Guided by an expert English-speaking Vatican guide, you'll fully appreciate the marvels the Vatican Museums offer. Cap off your visit with a special entrance to the Sistine Chapel, where your guide will prepare you to admire Michelangelo's greatest masterpiece.Your insider guide will optimize your visit on the day of your tour ensuring you witness the Vatican Museum's most important highlights.Ideal for first-timers to the Vatican, this tour covers the Vatican Museums; Sistine Chapel, including, but not limited to, the Pinecone Courtyard, Belvedere Courtyard, Room of the Muses, the Round Room, Greek Cross Room, Candelabra Gallery, Gallery of the Tapestries, and the Gallery of the Maps.At the conclusion of your tour, you will enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Peter's Basilica, excluding Wednesdays and special events.

€ 159.00

“It's worth it to wake up early and take advantage of the first access of the day into the Vatican - you are always a few steps ahead of the daytime crowds.”

San Clemente Underground Tour

Just a stone’s throw from the Colosseum, you will find one of Rome’s hidden gems, the 12th-century Basilica and the archeological site of San Clemente. Visit this incredible place and navigate three underground levels which uncover over 2,000 years of history. The Basilica reveals a sparkling gold mosaic in the central nave. What lies beneath the Basilica remained a secret until 1860 when a flood led an Irish Dominican Roman Catholic priest and archaeologist to discover the levels beneath.Today, the excavations are still not complete but you can descend 100 feet underground. At the first level is a 4th-century Basilica, which was long forgotten after the construction of the 12th-century Basilica above. Further down are the remains of an ancient pagan Mithraic temple, complete with an altar. Past the temple are the ruins of ancient Roman homes. All of this is incredibly preserved and was painstakingly excavated. At the lowest level, discover the underground spring which caused the chaos that led to the underground discovery.

€ 49.00

Kimberly Ann

“I love this tour because it's such a great example of the many-layered lasagna that is Rome, it is so cool to descend underground through history.”

Explore like a local

Our mission is to bridge the gap between travelers and the real Italy. Not only will you see Italy’s most important sights in the best possible way, but, with us, you can travel beyond that and experience Italy like a local.

Ponza Island Day Trip from Rome with Boat Excursion

Explore Rome's secret island, Ponza, on a day trip departing from central Rome. Avoid crowded, lacklustre beaches...

€ 169.00

Ponza from Anzio Day Trip

Planning a trip to Ponza? Meet us directly at Anzio Port and we'll take care of all of the tickets details for you. You...

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Endless changes & full-refund cancellation up to 24H

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The destinations we visit

Local guides lead the way

Each place has its own story to tell. Our team will open the door to an Italy that is often experienced only by locals

Professional Living in the city Friendly

7,500+ reviews on Tripadvisor

Caring A click away Expert

Our COO, leader of the pack! Cosimo boasts over a decade of events and tours expertise. Spearheading EcoArt Travel's operations, he embeds a people-centric approach into our tours, guiding our team of 15+ to consistently earn five-star reviews.

Favourite Saying

Today is just another day of all the days to come. But what happens in all the other days to come may depend on what you do today " Ernest Hemingway "

CFO & CTO, anything product & technology is under Kimberly's umbrella. With nearly two decades of experience growing tour companies, Kimberly is always on the hunt for the next adventure, ensuring travelers experience the best of Italy.

"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." - Oscar Wilde

Luigi, the CEO and founder of EcoArt, is a driving force in Italian tourism. With his deep local connections, Luigi has dedicated his career to sustaining initiatives that reimagine travel experiences,

"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer." - Anonymous

Eddy is an archaeologist and speleologist, always passionate about paleontology and prehistoric civilizations. He loves art, traveling to mysterious destinations and above all everything about the 80s!

And when I squinted the world seemed rose-tinted. With half closed eyes things looked even better than when they were open (Depeche Mode)

Gina has lived in Rome for nearly half of her life. She speaks English, Italian, Russian, and Portuguese. She has a passion for history and the stories of people. Rome is not only eternal but also infinite.

Much of what we use today comes from ancient Rome. Discovering the past helps us better understand the present.

Stefano has worked in tourism since 1997, first as a Tour Leader, then as a City Guide for 12 years. He studied Tourism in high school and Languages and Literature at the University of Rome. He enjoys meeting people, traveling, and making connections.

Μεράκι : to do something with soul, passion, love and creativity and to put yourself in to whatever you do

Since 2015, Riccardo has been guiding tours at the Vatican Museums. He finds joy in photography, cinema, traveling, and martial arts. His favorite author is Haruki Murakami.

"I've seen things you people wouldn't believe." Roy Batty in the science fiction film Blade Runner, 1982.

Sarah is an art historian and tour guide based in Rome. She sees her role as a mission to immerse people in the profound beauty and stories of Rome. It's not just a tour she offers, but an unforgettable experience of the city!

Art is not what we see but what you make others see

Lindy pursued her studies in Museology and Cultural Heritage in the Netherlands before relocating to Rome. With over 10 years of dedicated guiding experience, she possesses extensive knowledge of Rome and the Vatican Museums, navigating both expertly.

Nothing’s changed!

Oscar is an expert storyteller unraveling the layers of Rome's ancient past and modern charm.

My vocation is more in composition really than anything else - building up harmonies using the guitar, orchestrating the guitar like an army a guitar army.

Rosalba is a friendly guide sharing insider tips and captivating tales of Rome's timeless beauty.

"Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." - Pablo Picasso

Maria Laura

Maria Laura loves challenges and winning. Passionate about art, history, and fashion, her bedside table essentials include an archaeology manual, a novel, and Vogue.

Take life lightly, because the lightness is not superficiality, but gliding over things from above, without letting things weigh on your heart. Italo Calvino (Six Memos for the Next Millennium)

Hi! My name is Ilaria and I have been a tour guide since 2009. My job is my biggest passion and I am an incurable enthusiastic about Rome and is treaseures.

“One’s destination is never a place, but always a new way of seeing things” (Henry Miller)

Friendly guide sharing insider tips and captivating tales of Rome's timeless beauty.

"Fammi Volare Capitano"

I'm Polina, a passionate guide from Rome. Every day during my tours as a historian and archeologist I strive to bring the past to life uncovering curious facts about this city where every cobblestone has a story waiting to be told!

"To ravage, to slaughter, to usurp under false titles, they call empire, and where they make a desert, they call it peace." Tacitus

Professional tour guide delivering memorable experiences amidst Rome's historical grandeur.

"What an artist dies in me". Emperor Nero

A passionate and enthusiastic tour guide with a sparkling touch. I like to lead a relaxing, informative and fun tour. I enjoy sharing my passion with people from other cultures and making sure you discover the best of Rome in order to bring back home me

Travelling - it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller

Ciao a Tutti, amo l'arte e le persone, mi sono laureata in storia dell'arte è ho fatto del mio lavoro la mia passione.

"One never finishes learning about art. There are always new thing to discover" di E.H.Gombrich).

Knowledgeable Rome tour guide blending history, art, and local insights for an immersive experience.

I can't change the world, but I can change the world in me (U2)

Hi everybody! My name is Adriano and I am a tour guide. I have been working in the world of tourism since 2006. I love to take people through the wonders of the Eternal City.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page” (St. Augustine)

The difference our guides make

MercatoRoma

TripAdvisor

28 Apr, 2024

San Clemente hidden gem tour with Priscilla highly recommended

Priscilla was a fantastic guide incredible knowledge and showed us just what a hidden gem San Clemente is 90 mins that went way too quick Thanks Priscilla for a great tour

A big day at The Vatican and St Peters Basilica

We were totally overwhelmed by the Vatican the size and scale of it the sheer numbers of every sort of artwork the crowds Were glad we experienced it and Monica was a very confident and knowledgeable guide but we felt exhausted by the end We felt she tried to give us too much informationbut then again she probably only skimmed the surface Its a once in a lifetime activity not to be missed but be prepared to have sensory overload

Fun and educational tour

Catalina was a fabulous tour guide We had 4 kids in our group ages 912 and she kept them interested during the entire tour which made a huge difference Our whole group learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed the experience

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EcoArt is more than just a tour operator based in Italy; it's a gateway to discovering the extraordinary. With a dynamic team of passionate travelers at its core, EcoArt is dedicated to offering innovative and unforgettable journeys across the Italian peninsula and beyond. We strive to infuse each travel experience with a fresh perspective, ensuring our clients embark on truly unique adventures.

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Art & Architecture tours

From Classical orders to modernist innovations, our art and architecture tours examine many protagonists and periods in the history of civilisations around the world, whether the rich artistic traditions of Japan or the private palaces of Venice .

Explore the most famous and celebrated galleries in the world, such as the Uffizi, Prado and the Hermitage, and study countless lesser known gems on our art tours – and on our architecture tours, learn about great buildings as monuments and dwelling-spaces, as works of engineering as well as works of art, and as vital components in a city’s mythos. 

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Civilisations of Sicily Mediterranean crossroads: three thousand years of creativity

Madrid & Toledo Cities of Empire

Art in Scotland Great cities, spectacular museums

Palladian Villas The greatest house builder in history

The London Backstreet Walk Hyde Park to the Tower

Samarkand & Silk Road Cities with Tashkent, Shakhr-i-Sabz, Bukhara and Khiva

Medieval Heart of Portugal Romanesque and Gothic architecture

Great Swedish Houses Royal residences, country estates and provincial palaces

Friuli-Venezia Giulia The border lands of northeast Italy

Versailles: Seat of the Sun King The greatest palace & garden

The Road to Santiago The pilgrimage route through northern Spain

A Festival of Impressionism Paintings & places in Paris and Normandy

Stockholm Modern A century of inspirational building and design

Great Houses of the South West Wiltshire, Hampshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon

Kraków & Silesia Art, architecture & history in southern Poland

Cyprus: stepping stone of history Island civilisation in the Eastern Mediterranean

Lucca & vicinity Romanesque to Renaissance in northern Tuscany

Gastronomic Asturias & Cantabria Spain’s hidden paradise on the Emerald Coast

Medieval Burgundy Abbeys and churches of the High Middle Ages

Great Irish Houses Country houses both sides of the border

Flemish Painting From van Eyck to Rubens: Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Brussels

Vienna’s Masterpieces The art collections of an imperial capital

Medieval West Midlands Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Staffordshire, Oxfordshire

The Plantagenet Empire Rulers of England in Normandy and Anjou

Finland: Aalto & Others 20th-century architecture and design

The Welsh Marches Castles, abbeys and parish churches

French Gothic The great cathedrals of northern France

Whitehall Architecture & history

Scottish Houses & Castles History, architecture, artworks and gardens

Danish Art & Design The Golden Age to the present; cities, coast and countryside

Franconia Art and architecture in Germany’s medieval heartland

King Ludwig II and the Wittelsbach palaces of Bavaria

The Squares Walk London’s greatest glory

Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania History, art and architecture of the Baltic Countries

The Hanseatic League Cities and abbeys of Germany’s Baltic Coast

Connoisseur’s Prague Art, architecture & design, with privileged access

Sardinia Archaeology, architecture and art

The Etruscans Italy before Rome

Albania: Crossroads of Antiquity Archaeology, history, art and landscape

West Coast Architecture A century of building in Arizona and California

Dark Age Brilliance Late Antique & Pre-Romanesque

Ancient Rome Art & architecture of the classical world

Georgia Uncovered Treasures of the Southern Caucasus

Footpaths of Umbria Walks, art and wine between Arezzo and Assisi

English Georgian Towns The art of building and the building arts 1700–1840

Raphael, in celebration A pilgrimage from Urbino to Rome

Granada & Córdoba with Úbeda & Baeza

Arts & Crafts in the Cotswolds Art and artefacts in the buildings they were designed for

The Cathedrals of England Ely, Lincoln, Durham, York, Coventry, Gloucester, Bristol, Wells, Salisbury, Winchester

Belgian Modern Masters Ensor, Magritte and fellow individualists

Extremadura Landscape, history and food in rural Spain

Bulgaria Archaeology & art from prehistoric to modern

Frank Lloyd Wright and the Chicago School

Courts of Northern Italy Princely art of the Renaissance

Basilicata & Calabria Italy’s undiscovered south

The Douro From Porto to Pinhão

Berlin, Potsdam, Dresden Art and architecture in Brandenburg and Saxony

Palermo Revealed Art, archaeology, architecture and gastronomy

Le Corbusier Through France and Switzerland

Castile & León The magnificent heart of Spain

Walking in Southern Tuscany Art, architecture & landscapes in the Val d’Orcia & Chianti

Italian Design Modernism in Turin and Milan

Art in the Netherlands A spectrum of the finest

Roman & Medieval Provence The south of France in the Middle Ages

Modern Art on the Côte d’Azur Picasso, Matisse, Chagall and their contemporaries

Istanbul Revealed Byzantine & Ottoman metropolis

Sicily: from the greeks to the baroque temples, churches and palazzi: three thousand years of history, gastronomic catalonia fine food & wine, art & architecture.

Florentine Palaces Defence, humanism, magnificence and beauty

Art in Madrid The Great Galleries

Venetian Palaces The greatest and best-preserved palaces of La Serenissima

The Making of Argentina A creative history from the Atlantic to the Andes

Essential India Hindu temples, Rajput palaces and Mughal tombs

Venice Revisited From prison to palazzo: art and life in historic Venice

Ravenna & Urbino Byzantine capital, Renaissance court

Christmas in Emilia-Romagna Art, architecture & gastronomy in Northern Italy

Vienna at Christmas Art and architecture in the Habsburg capital

Naples at Christmas Art, antiquities & architecture –with Caserta, Amalfi & Ravello

Paris at Christmas Art and music in the Ville Lumière

Bruges at Christmas and the ancient cities of Flanders

Venice at Christmas Painting, sculpture & architecture in the world’s most beautiful city

Caravaggio The master of painting in Milan, Rome and Naples

Oman, Landscapes & Peoples Desert, coast and mountains

Renaissance Rivals Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael: the tumultuous trio

Palaces & Villas of Rome From Empire to Papacy: the power of magnificence

Essential Rome The complete spectrum of art, architecture and antiquities

Florence & Venice The finest and best-known art and architecture in the Western world

Indian Summer Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Shimla

Florence revisited art off the beaten track and in private collections.

Normans in the South Castles and cathedrals in Puglia, Basilicata and Campania

Romans & Carolingians Germany from Augustus to Charlemagne

Cities of Catalonia 2,000 years of art and architecture, from Romans to Modernistas

Val D’Orcia and the Sienese Hills lesser-known delights of Southern Tuscany

Cornish Houses and Gardens Landscapes, flowers, buildings and art

Medieval Saxony Carolingian, Ottonian, Romanesque

The Ligurian Coast Arts, history and scenery on the Riviera di Levante

The Venetian Land Empire A spectrum of north-east Italy’s finest art and architecture

Arts & Crafts in the Lake District Churches, houses and museums

Moldavia & Transylvania Towns, villages and painted churches on the edge of Europe

Moving on: Architecture & Memory Bauhaus to the present in Stuttgart, Ulm and Munich

Lincolnshire Churches Major and minor, from cathedral to parish

Medieval Oxfordshire and the Southern Cotswolds

Lusatia: Germany’s Eastern borderlands Cities, palaces and gardens along the Oder-Neisse Line

Baroque & Rococo In Southern Germany

Mitteldeutschland Weimar and the towns of Thuringia and Sachsen-Anhalt

Isambard Kingdom Brunel Engineering modern Britain

Essential Andalucía Spain’s southern province

Painted Palaces of Rajasthan Jodhpur, Nagaur, Bikaner, the Shekhawati & Jaipur

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The trip of a lifetime, every time.

Who we are..

Arts & Leisure is a specialty travel boutique that crafts customized itineraries for travellers who are eager to explore the world around them. From food and wine to people and places, we deliver one-of-a-kind travel experiences based on your personal interests and desires. Established in 1993, we have connections all around the world and always ensure that every destination has our seal of approval before you arrive.

Introducing A&L Collection

Discover our selection of partner hotels that offer the highest quality of complimentary amenities and services exclusive to Arts & Leisure guests.

Look for the A&L badge and explore the A&L Collection when deciding on your hotel stay.

Featured Experiences

Chateau le Cagnard

Intimate and unique. Built in the 13th century Château Le Cagnard is an exceptional stone dwelling, which is a part of the [...]

Le Sirenuse

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"All the parts of our trip were wonderful, the drivers we had were also excellent - on time, easy to find and really nice. Arts & Leisure did a fantastic job!"

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“Hi Antonella – I met up with our clients last night to review their trip to Croatia. They could not have raved enough about everything on the trip. They loved the hotels, tours, guides and really everything. Thanks so much for putting together such a wonderful trip.” - Dave

“Thank you again for all the arrangements, you did an amazing job and I am recommending you to all of my family and friends” - Elaine

“We just want to tell you that we can’t thank you enough for such an amazing vacation. Well planned and organized. We really enjoyed Portugal and it exceeded our expectations.” - Amira

“We want to thank you and Amelia very very much for a most wonderful trip. Everything was perfect from beginning to end.” - Diane

“We had an incredible trip!! Thanks to you and Amelia for all the work and incredible detail in our itinerary! It was perfect! The mix of train, private tours, classes and the hotels! Loved everything so thank you!” - Ivana

“A big thanks for helping organize our wonderful trip to France. We had a spectacular time and all the guides, drivers and accommodations were fabulous.We really appreciate all your help.” - Katie

“My family and I recently returned from our European vacation. Our travel agent assured us that the supplier that they work with is one of the best in North America. We can truly say that this was the best trip we’ve ever had!” - Michael

“Just a quick note from Sicily to say thank you for organizing our wonderful trip to the Amalfi coast. Everything was perfect, so well thought out and organized. It all went so smoothly with the utmost professionalism, making it so stress free and easy to show up, wander and enjoy.” - Denise

“I cannot thank you enough for putting together this trip of a lifetime for my sons and I. It was nothing short of magnificent. The stay at Portobay Libertade was perfect, centrally located, near all the shops, restaurants, cafes. We were able to walk everywhere. The hotel itself was beautiful. The staff was so accommodating and personable. The tours that you had put together for us of Lisbon, Sintra and Caiscas were so well done. It allowed us to immerse ourselves in the culture and learn so much of the history of Portugal.” - Carm

"I want to thank you for another well thought out and organized trip. It went off without a hitch. The hotels were excellent and our last two nights in Athens our room faced the Parthenon and Acropolis what an unbelievable view!!"

"Portugal was amazing. The private tours with guides were all amazing. It was such an experience to be alone with the guides and on our own schedule each day... Thanks so much + cant wait for the next trip booking with you" - Gianna

“Thank you so much for such an amazing vacation for my very happy clients. They absolutely loved everything!!!! I appreciate a real luxury and attention to details for this very special couple, they truly deserved such luxurious treatment... Many thanks to your team here and in Italy 🙏🏼” - Nelly

“Our trip was truly wonderful! All our guests had an absolutely fabulous time. The villa was beyond expectations. So much room, so much available!”

“The trip you put together was absolutely amazing. The families and kids are all still talking about it and are ready to go back to Europe! The tour guides were always on time and top notch. The hotel in Paris was great and the hotel in Amboise was unbelievable. I would highly recommend! Every aspect of the trip was unforgettable. Thank you for putting all the details together. We have been asked by many people about who helped plan the trip. We will definitely be using you again!!”

“Just wanted to thank you again for your work putting our trip together. We just got home and had an outstanding time. Everything went as planned and both hotels, driver service and the tour in Venice was just great.“ - Irv

“I want to thank you and your contact, Antonella, from Arts & Leisure for everything you did for us to ensure that we had a wonderful experience in France. It was absolutely perfect!” - Hope

"Thank you for organizing our wonderful trip to the Amalfi coast. Everything was perfect, so well thought out and organized. It all went so smoothly with the utmost professionalism, making it so stress free and easy for Brian and me just to show up, wander and enjoy.” - Denise

“The trip was incredible, you put together quite the itinerary of places to stay and having transport to and from the ferries and hotels worked seamlessly. Thank you again for all your help and your quick responses to our numerous questions.”

They loved all the accommodations and said all the tours/drivers/transfers did an incredible job. No hiccups anywhere. Thank you so much for helping me create a wonderful trip for them in Italy!” - Kaley

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At Arts & Leisure, we craft personalized travel itineraries and ensure every aspect of your experience aligns with your personal interests and desires.

At the end of the day, we want our travellers to feel like they are in good hands with the peace of mind to enjoy every minute from start to finish.

Above all, we promise specialized and one-of-a-kind travel experiences unparalleled to any other provider in the industry – always marked by our seal of approval.

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Luxury Art & Design Tours

Decorative Arts & Gardens of England (9 Days) London, Cotswolds

Art Tour of France (10 Days) Paris & Versailles, Provence, Cote d’Azur

Art & Design Tour of Berlin (5 Days) Berlin & Potsdam

Art & Temples of India (18 Days) Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho & Panna National Park, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Mumbai

Culture, Crafts & Cuisine of Ireland (13 days) Dublin, Ballyfin, Ballymaloe, Killarney, Adare, Ashford Castle

Italy for Art Lovers (13 Days) Rome, Florence & Assisi, Bologna & Ravenna, Venice & Padua, Milan

Contemporary Art & Architecture of Japan (14 Days) Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto & Miho Museum, Naoshima, Tokyo

Art, Crafts & Design of Mexico (9 Days) Mexico City, Oaxaca

Arts & Crafts of Morocco (13 Days) Casablanca, Fez, Rabat, Atlas Mountains, Essaouira, Marrakesh

Arts & Crafts of Myanmar (9 Days) Yangon & Twante, Bagan & Mount Popa, Mandalay

Design, Architecture & Nature of Norway (9 Days) Oslo, Alesund & Atlantic Road, Norangsfjord, Geirangerfjord, Storfjord

Art & Design of Portugal (8 Days) Lisbon & Sintra, Porto

Contemporary Art & Design in Seoul & Jeju Island (8 Days) Seoul, Jeju Island

Swedish Design Tour (5 Days) Stockholm & environs

Art Tour of Switzerland (6 Days) Geneva, Basel & Weil am Rhein, Zurich with St. Gallen & Winterthur

Design & Gardens Tour of Sicily (8 Days) Palermo & Monreale, Taormina with Noto, Syracuse & Villa Romana del Casale

Decorative Arts & Gardens Tour of Paris (8 Days) Paris & environs

Traditional Crafts of Japan (15 Days) Tokyo, Kurashiki, Kyoto, Yamanaka Onsen, Kanazawa

Exclusive Japan: Amans, Art & Onsen (15 Days) Tokyo, Naoshima, Kyoto, Ise-Shima region

MULTI-COUNTRY TOURS

Food, Design & Culture of Copenhagen & Sweden (12 Days) Stockholm, Kingdom of Crystal, Wanas, Malmo, Copenhagen

Dutch & Flemish Art Tour (10 days) Bruges & Ghent, Brussels & Antwerp, Amsterdam with The Hague, Delft & Kroller-Muller Museum

Contemporary Art & Architecture of Japan

( 14 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis) Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto & Miho Museum, Naoshima

This exclusive Japan tour features private touring of top art museums and galleries, fascinating contemporary architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, the unforgettable art island of Naoshima and the best in traditional Japanese culture.

Begin in  Tokyo , the capital of contemporary culture and style in Japan. Stay at one of the city’s best luxury hotels, and enjoy comprehensive city touring with your private guide and driver. Visit Tokyo’s most interesting neighborhoods, such as Ginza, Asakusa, Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Roppongi and Aoyama. Tour important historical sites such as Meiji Jingu Shrine and Sensoji Temple, and see outstanding contemporary architecture by top Japanese and international architects such as Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma, Toyo Ito and Herzog & de Meuron. Experience the best of Japanese pop culture during visits to trendy districts, specialty shops, quirky cafes and popular sites such as Yoyogi Park. Visit Tokyo’s best museums, such as the Mori Art Museum, Nezu Museum, Edo-Tokyo Museum and Tokyo National Museum, according to your interests and current exhibitions. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange visits to top contemporary and traditional art galleries and meetings with gallery owners. If desired, experience Tokyo’s exciting culinary scene at the Tsukiji Outer Market or Toyosu Market, the Kappabashi kitchenware district, and our favorite specialty food shops and department store food halls. We also make reservations for our travelers at our favorite restaurants in Tokyo, which range from local noodle shops, sushi bars and  izakaya  (pubs) to some of the most acclaimed restaurants in the world.

Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange additional experiences in Tokyo, such as watching sumo wrestlers practice at a sumo stable, a private sushi-making lesson, visiting a teamLab Borderless immersive video installation, shopping for the latest Japanese gadgets, meetings with culinary and sake experts, private martial arts lessons, seeing a Japanese baseball game, attending a kabuki performance and visiting the Ghibli Museum. We can also arrange touring to include Japanese seasonal events such as  ohanami  (cherry blossom viewing) parties in the spring, fireworks festivals in the summer and viewing  koyo  (fall foliage) in the autumn.

Continue by first-class  shinkansen  (bullet train) to  Kanazawa , one of Japan’s wealthiest cities during the feudal era and now a wonderful cultural and culinary destination on the Sea of Japan. With your expert guide, explore the highlights of the town, including traditional Japanese architecture in former samurai and geisha districts and beautiful Kenrokuen Garden, one of the most famous gardens in Japan. Learn about Kanazawa’s celebrated traditional crafts, including silk, lacquer and gold leaf products. Also tour fascinating Myoryuji (Ninja Temple), and visit museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (designed by SANAA) and Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts. Explore the city’s Omicho food market, and experience Kanazawa’s refined cuisine at our favorite restaurants. One day, Artisans of Leisure will arrange an exclusive private visit and culinary experience at a traditional Japanese farm in the countryside. Other touring options around Kanazawa include visiting the Ohi Museum, the D.T. Suzuki Museum, and a renowned pottery kiln and studio.

Next, travel to enchanting  Kyoto , the heart of Japanese culture and tradition. Stay at one of Kyoto’s best luxury hotels or  ryokan  (traditional inns), and enjoy flexible private touring of the best of this elegant city with your private guide and driver. Visit the city’s most important historic attractions and temples and shrines such as Kinkakuji (Temple of the Golden Pavilion), Ryoanji and its famous Zen rock garden, Kiyomizudera Temple, Nijo Castle, Ginkakuji, Saihoji (Moss Temple) and Fushimi Inari, famous for its tunnel of red torii gates. Take a private excursion to Arashiyama, a beautiful mountainside district, to see its enormous bamboo forest, historic gardens and sites, and to have a vegetarian lunch at a Zen temple. Enjoy a private tour of Gion, Kyoto’s traditional geisha district, walk on the Philosopher’s Path, and see traditional architecture in our favorite neighborhoods. Also browse Nishiki Market, antiques districts, specialty museums and historic shops that have been selling traditional goods for centuries. Upon request, we can arrange access to imperial villas and private gardens such as Katsura Rikyu and other less-visited attractions. One day, enjoy a private excursion to the I.M. Pei-designed  Miho Museum . Artisans of Leisure will also arrange an exclusive private Japanese tea ceremony in a tea villa and reservations at Kyoto’s best restaurants.

Upon request, other activities that can be arranged around Kyoto include an exclusive private dinner with geisha entertainment, private Zen meditation in a local Buddhist temple, meetings with local craftspeople, private  ikebana  (flower arranging) lessons, visiting a master swordsmith, meetings with ceramics experts, tea tastings and tea plantation visits, visits to sake breweries and tofu factories, manga drawing lessons, a visit to a private  machiya (traditional merchant house), hiking to temples in the hills, attending local festivals, private Japanese cooking classes, and visiting the best places around Kyoto to view cherry blossoms and fall foliage. Touring of additional contemporary art and architecture sites outside Kyoto, such as Tadao Ando’s Church of Light, Honpukuji (Water Temple) and Awaji Yumebutai, can also be arranged.

Next, travel to  Naoshima , an amazing art destination on an island in the Seto Inland Sea. Stay at Benesse House, a Tadao Ando-designed hotel and contemporary art museum. During private touring with a resident art expert, explore Benesse Art Site Naoshima, a collection of museums, installations and art spaces scattered across the island. See compelling artworks by Yayoi Kusama, James Turrell, Hiroshi Sugimoto, Rei Naito, Claude Monet and other top artists. If desired, see additional installations on the nearby islands of Teshima and Inujima (also part of Benesse Art Site).

Return to  Tokyo  for additional touring or shopping customized to your interests.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

Testimonials

Our guide in Japan arranged one-on-one conversations with some amazing artisans… lots of credit to Artisans for arranging things so well, understanding our interests and making sure they were communicated to Japan. ~ J.R., Raleigh, NC

The art scene in Mexico City was even better than we could have imagined. Thank you for organizing such a great guide. We never would have been able to experience the city in the same way without him. We really appreciated all of the Artisans of Leisure touches and special connections. ~ L.S., New York, NY

Our recent Vietnam trip was excellent…Thank you for arranging for us to visit the home and studio of the renowned art dealer in Hanoi. ~ A.R., Easton, MD

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Discover Your Passion with Arts and Crafts Tours: Tailored Journeys, Unforgettable Experiences

Immerse yourself in a fusion of historical richness and artistic brilliance. With Arts and Crafts Tours, take a personalized journey that deeply connects you with the spirit of the British Arts and Crafts Movement.

Arts & Crafts Tours

Unprecedented access.

Enjoy opportunities to be welcomed into private homes, gardens, and collections rarely open to the public. Find yourself dining with your hosts and beautiful objects rarely seen up close.

Knowledgeable Experts

Along with your tour leader, each tour has a wide range of experts – scholars, curators, historians, artists, and writers – who are your guides, lecturers, companions and dinner partners.

Personal Attention and Service

You’ll be catered to from the moment you arrive in Britain to the moment you get to the airport on your return flight – luxury transportation staying at lavish, country, manors, and delightful lunches.

Award-Winning Tour Operator

2024 Award for Arts & Crafts Tours of The Year - USA

2023 Recognised Leading Providers of Arts & Crafts Tours

2022 Recognised Leading Providers of Arts & Crafts Tours

2021 Recognised Leading Providers of Arts & Crafts Tours

2021 Best Bespoke Arts & Crafts Tour Operator

2020 Best Bespoke Arts & Crafts Tour Operator

2019 Best Bespoke Arts & Crafts Tour Operator

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An interesting and fun group.

“I wanted to say how much I enjoyed the dinners and their settings. They seemed so intimate and enjoyable – especially having the hosts involved. Such good company – really it was such an interesting and fun group and you added so much – am now reading my books for it – thanks so much.”

Pure delight!

We did not think you could plan another tour as wonderful as the William Morris one last summer. But you did – our days in Scotland were pure delight. Many, many thanks.

Trips that are small and specialized

One gets very spoiled being on trips that are small and specialized, thoughtfully designed and well organized and I can’t imagine traveling any other way!

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Specialtours is an established leader in the field of escorted tours for museums, cultural and garden associations.

Our reputation rests to a great extent on tours to Europe with exclusive private visits to houses, art collections and gardens, thanks to a network of contacts established over many years. Special visits include privileged out-of-hours access to museums, hosted lunches or dinners at private homes and the opportunity to watch expert restorers at work. We can arrange some exclusive visits for your group, such as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to admire the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel – or the mosaics of St Mark’s Basilica in Venice – without the crowds.

We aim to offer the perfect balance between a study tour and a holiday or vacation. In addition to imaginative and carefully-planned itineraries focusing on art, archaeology, architecture, history and gardens, we can offer walking or painting trips, wine and gastronomy tours and wildlife safaris.

Specialtours is part of The Ultimate Travel Company. Our expertise in art-orientated tours in Europe, the Middle East and the United States is complemented by Ultimate’s experience in destinations such as Africa, India, South America and South-East Asia.

Our clients range from American museums, alumni/ae associations, clubs and garden societies, to a European cultural heritage foundation. We always tailor-make the itinerary to our client’s specific interests in order to offer a unique experience.

Our forthcoming tours include a study of the decorative arts of Portugal, a tour of the great country houses of Ireland, a week in Madrid focusing on the rich royal heritage and an exploration of the inspirational art, architecture and design of Sweden. We will be admiring gardens from the Mediterranean to Normandy and the Loire Valley, from the south of England to the Scottish Highlands. Also forthcoming are tours of the landscape and gardens of exotic Morocco and the private gardens of The Cape, one of the six ‘floral kingdoms’ of the world.

As ever, we are planning a number of tours to Italy – from the gardens of the Italian Lakes and Sicily to the Grand Tour in Florence, plus a return to ‘La Serenissima’ focusing on music. Looking ahead, we are planning cultural tours of Burgundy and the Rhone Valley, Greece, The Netherlands and the Thames Valley. Further afield, we will be exploring the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan and Japan, both for the art, architecture and design and for the unique and influential garden scene.

We return to ‘La Serenissima’, city of Monteverdi, for a joyous week of Baroque music and art, with special performances and private visits.

Appreciate the evolution of Scandinavian art and design and the inspirational light and landscape, visiting historic royal palaces, elegant private homes, museums and contemporary sculpture parks.

Isolated from the outside world for centuries, Bhutan exudes enchantment for the modern traveller, with its majestic scenery and ancient ancestral traditions.

One of our most rewarding horticultural destinations, Normandy offers a range of styles from the classic French formal garden to some original and inspiring modern gardens.

Specialtours did the most sensational job on the Provence trip in every way.

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Japan Pottery & Art Tour     View Tours

Japan Deluxe Tours

Visit the must see sites of japan with group sizes ranging from 12 to 35 people..

These tours are great for first time visitors to Japan looking for comfortable accommodation with all entrance fees and most meals included. Our Japan Deluxe Tours are accomodated with professional tour guides, fluent in both Japanese and English, to ensure an educational and valuable visit. Air-conditoned, private coaches are also included, so you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free time in Japan. Our tours range from 7 to 21 days, to various regions of Japan.

Deluxe-Plus Small Group Tours

Experience the culture of japan at a slower pace with groups of 10 to 18 people. (smaller group departure available).

These tours combine enrichment, enjoyment, and education with time to truly absorb and appreciate your surroundings. Our Deluxe-Plus small group tours are created to cater to those who are interested in having a deeper understanding of Japan's culture. You will have the opportunity to participate in culturally rich activities and visit destinations only locals may know. Experience luxurious hotels and travel at a leisurely pace when you book a Deluxe-Plus small group tour.

Budget Group Tours

Our budget tours are designed for our guests who are on a limited budget..

Explore the must-see sights and enjoy the hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a quick stop to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys. These are the tours for you.

Active Small Group Tours

Travel japan more flexibly in groups of 6 to 13 people using public transportation..

Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best of cultural destinations with off-the-beaten-path via Japanese public transportation, Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes.

Group Tour | Deluxe-Plus Style

Japan pottery & art tour.

Toho Village - Sasebo - Hasami - Arita - Karatsu - Bizen - Kurashiki - Yasugi - Naoshima - Takamatsu - Kobe - Osaka - Nara - Kyoto - (Mt. Fuji - Tokyo)

Departure Months:

Immerse yourself in the traditional ceramics and vibrant art scene of Japan while on our Pottery and Art Tour. Japan's ceramics are celebrated the world over for an elegant simplicity in their designs; its artisans honed their craft in hidden pottery villages and private workshops across the country for over 400 years. Using a range of techniques and traditions passed down through families over many generations and expressing styles that offer a sense of tranquil harmony with the natur... View More

Immerse yourself in the traditional ceramics and vibrant art scene of Japan while on our Pottery and Art Tour. Japan's ceramics are celebrated the world over for an elegant simplicity in their designs; its artisans honed their craft in hidden pottery villages and private workshops across the country for over 400 years. Using a range of techniques and traditions passed down through families over many generations and expressing styles that offer a sense of tranquil harmony with the natural world, exquisite Japanese porcelain was once a luxury restricted to the rich but now can be enjoyed by all. Ceramics form just a single facet of Japanese art, in a creative world that is vibrant and varied, spanning centuries of creative expression up to the modern age, and includes drawing and painting, sculpture, calligraphy, architecture, and much more. These tours of Japan covers a wide range of Japanese art, with an especial focus on ceramics, in 14-day and 17-day itineraries. Explore the pottery culture of Japan with visits to hidden pottery villages - each with their own unique ceramic styles. Tour Karatsu, home to Karatsu-ware and the ruins of a number of old-fashioned climbing kilns which produced a simple, sturdy ceramics with an earthy tone. Arita (and nearby Imari) is the birthplace of Japanese ceramics, and is famed for producing elegant porcelain that was popular in 17th and 18th-century Europe. Bizen produces Bizen-ware, a kind of heavy, unglazed porcelain with a rustic appeal. We also explore Sasebo (for Mikawachi porcelain created by the "sometsuke" technique), and Hasami (known for making sturdy, affordable porcelain for common people). We visit the pottery districts of Kyoto for Kiyomizu-ware (a magnificent porcelain from the ancient capital city), and visit the historic home / workshop of one of Kyoto's foremost ceramic artists - Kawai Kanjiro. We include a Kintsugi Experience to learn the art of "golden joinery" that mends broken pottery with shining lacquer. And travelers looking to find their own treasured souvenir won't miss out: browse the Antique shops in the streets of Shinmonzen and Furumonzen. And during our extended itinerary, you will be able to explore the ceramic galleries in Tokyo's upscale Ginza district. Ceramics aside, our tours aim to immerse you in the world of Japanese art at Naoshima Art Island, which features modern galleries created by popular architect Tadao Ando, as well as the Benesse House, a unique fusion of hotel and art gallery. You will experience the modern architecture in Osaka with a Guided Walking Tour, and we include visits to top museums like the Adachi Museum of Art and Ohara Museum of Art, with the Nezu Museum, Kawaguchiko Muse Museum, Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, and Mori Art Museum included in the extended tour. And what is a trip to Japan without sightseeing some of the country's historic landmarks? The temples and gardens of Kyoto, the Gion Geisha District, historic Osaka Castle, the idyllic Kurashiki Canals, Kobe's classic Chinatown, gorgeous Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu, and many more time-honored treasures are included for your enjoyment. Our Tokyo extension features even more must-sees, such as Asakusa Sensoji Temple, Hamarikyu Garden, Imperial Palace East Gardens, and views of Mount Fuji (in clear weather) from Oishi Park. Our dining and accommodation also reflect the tour's Pottery and Art theme, with such experiences as a lunch at Arita House (a Japanese restaurant using Arita-ware pottery), a meal of Kyoto cuisine with Maiko entertainment, and a couple nights at an onsen ryokan offering a traditional Kaiseki dinner. Transport for the tour is facilitated by our comfortable private coaches, and you will travel in the company of one of our knowledgeable and friendly English-speaking guides, who are on hand to help you navigate the country, and who share a passion for Japanese traditional pottery and art. For more information, please feel free to browse the detailed itineraries for our Japan Pottery and Art Tours.

Tour Highlights

• Study the history of local pottery villages on Kyushu island at Karatsu, Toho Village, Arita, Bizen, Sasebo, and Hasami.
• Meet local Japanese potters and ceramic artisans at their private studios for a first-hand introduction to regional pottery styles.
• Take part in a Kintsugi Experience and study the art of "golden joinery" which repairs broken pottery with shining lacquer.
• Find your own Japanese porcelain souvenir for a good price in Kyoto's Shinmonzen and Furumonzen Antique Streets.
• Visit the art galleries of Naoshima Art Island designed by famed architect Tadao Ando.
• Stroll the enchanting streets of the Gion Geisha District on a Night Walking Tour.
• Stay at a traditional onsen ryokan and dine on classical Japanese kaiseki cuisine.
• Choose either our original 14-day itinerary or a 17-day tour which includes an extension to Mount Fuji and Tokyo.

Spring (Mar - May)   (119)

Summer (Jun - Aug)   (49)

Autumn (Sep - Nov)   (96)

Winter (Dec - Feb)   (21)

May 2024   (2)

May 2025   (2)

May 2026   (2)

Deluxe   (222)

Deluxe-Plus   (21)

Ultra-Deluxe   (11)

Classic Tour   (31)

Cherry Blossoms   (73)

Autumn Leaves   (41)

Festival   (69)

Special Interest   (96)

less than 9 nights   (100)

9-14 nights   (160)

15 nights +   (25)

Hokkaido   (49)

Tohoku   (26)

Kanto   (240)

Chubu   (239)

Kansai   (240)

Chugoku   (110)

Shikoku   (96)

Kyushu   (32)

Okinawa   (0)

Kyoto Aoi Festival   (9)

Kawazu Cherry Blossoms   (4)

Lavenders   (11)

Snow Monkeys   (52)

Shirakawago   (85)

Gion Summer Festival   (4)

Awa Odori Dance Festival   (4)

Sapporo Snow Festival   (5)

Otaru Snow Light Path   (1)

Ice Breaker Cruise   (5)

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing   (5)

Shiretoko Nature Cruise   (8)

Blue Pond   (14)

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest   (199)

Miho Museum   (109)

Ise Grand Shrine   (4)

Kumano   (6)

Koyasan   (20)

Himeji Castle   (98)

Kurashiki Canal Area   (99)

Miyajima Island   (106)

Shimanami Kaido   (88)

Takeda Castle   (2)

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine   (2)

Adachi Museum of Art   (6)

Naoshima Island   (12)

Tottori Sand Dunes   (2)

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko   (35)

Shikoku Pilgrimage Route   (4)

Takachiho   (28)

Baby Blue Eyes Flowers   (7)

Wisteria   (11)

Takayama Festivals   (16)

Shibazakura Festivals   (10)

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals   (3)

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko   (163)

Sushi-Making   (196)

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route   (6)

Group Tour | Deluxe-Plus           Book Now & Save $100

Group Tour | Deluxe-Plus     Book Now & Save $100

14 Days 13 Nights | from US $8598.00 (Limit to 12 guests)

Toho Village / Sasebo / Hasami / Arita / Karatsu / Bizen / Kurashiki / Yasugi / Naoshima / Takamatsu / Kobe / Osaka / Nara / Kyoto

Find inspiration during a 14-day japan pottery and art tour stopping at major arts destinations: the small pottery towns at karatsu, toho village, arita, bizen, sasebo, and hasami plus kurashiki, naoshima island, takamatsu, kobe, osaka, ikaruga (nara) and kyoto..

17 Days 16 Nights | from US $9998.00 (Limit to 12 guests)

Toho Village / Sasebo / Hasami / Arita / Karatsu / Bizen / Kurashiki / Yasugi / Naoshima / Takamatsu / Kobe / Osaka / Nara / Kyoto / Mt. Fuji / Tokyo

For travelers who can't get enough of japan pottery and art, join this 17-day tour that includes all the delights of our japan pottery and art tour, with an exciting extension that includes mount fuji and tokyo.

Spring Tours (Mar - May)

Summer Tours (Jun - Aug)

Autumn Tours (Sep - Nov)

Winter Tours (Dec - Feb)

Travel Styles

Deluxe-Plus

Ultra-Deluxe

Walking Tour

Cherry Blossom Tours

Autumn Leaves Tours

Festival Tours

Special Interest Tours

Seasonal Attractions

Cherry Blossoms

Takayama Spring Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Shibazakura Festivals

Baby Blue Eyes Flowers

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Gion Summer Festival

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Autumn Leaves

Takayama Autumn Festival

Snow Monkeys

Sapporo Snow Festival

Ice Breaker Cruise

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

Things Not to Miss

Shirakawago

Miho Museum

Naoshima Island

Himeji Castle

Shiretoko Nature Cruise

Sushi-Making Experience

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko

Ise Grand Shrine

Most Beautiful Places in Japan

Otaru Snow Light Path

Tottori Sand Dunes

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Miyajima Island

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine

Adachi Museum of Art

Shimanami Kaido

Takeda Castle Ruin

Kurashiki Canal Area

Takachiho Gorge

Creative journeys for adventurous artists

Please bear with us.

Our website is having a bad few days, please bear with us while we fix it – if any link doesn’t work for you, please be in touch by email or phone.

We have new tours and workshops ready to tell you about, but can’t load them yet!

Art Safari runs exciting painting holidays and art courses for artists. These life-changing experiences into nature, architecture and landscape are led by inspiring artist tutors.

Adventure is never far away.

Join Art Safari painting holidays and workshops to tumble further into your own artistic journey.  We’ll introduce you to wildlife, landscape, architecture, people and culture, via zoom or for real.

It’s a beautiful world – come with us and enjoy it with us.

Are you inspired to paint?  Write?  Make art?  Take the best photos?  Have an adventure?  Reconnect with nature and with yourself?  Pick up your paints and brushes and join a creative journey!!

Our tutors and guides are waiting to welcome you.  Make travel sketchbooks and visual diaries, full of the wonders of the world.

Our virtual art courses range from free events, to one day, two day and whole immersive virtual holidays, as recommended in The Guardian . Art Safari has been listed as No.3 Best Slow Travel Holidays in Britain in The Times and featured in-depth in The Telegraph .

We’re here to take stress out of making arrangements, including flights.  We started in 1999. Art Safari is a registered tour operator offering plein air painting holidays to destinations worldwide, ATOL 9916, (offering financial protection for your tour).

This is adventure travel – whether real or virtual! – you will combine travel, art, adventure and huge amounts of inspiration and fun on a wide choice of Art Safari painting holidays.

Our next virtual destination

Zoom off to Suffolk!

Wildlife in Watercolour

Learn to paint spotty cats, monkeys and so much more …

Art Safari staycation

UK arty breaks in Suffolk, Bath, Cornwall, Northumberland, Orkney, Cambridge…

Art Safari in Africa

Creative journeys in Namibia, Zambia, Malawi…

Art Safari island dreams

Explore an island with a sketchbook… Scotland, Malawi, Galapagos…

Check out our facebook and Twitter pages for all the latest news from Art Safari!

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Art Safari In Africa

Travel Artist and Art Safari director Mary-Anne Bartlett reflects on leading Art Safari tours in Africa – where Art Safari started.

Features exclusive wildlife footage shot during Art Safari tours with original drawings and paintings by the artist.

Follow Us on Facebook

See stories and pictures from what we’re up at the moment.

We also have the Art Safari Members Page where we all share our sketches and paintings – it’s a great place to get feedback on your work and to show others.

Non-Painters Welcome

We are always happy to welcome non-painting friends or partners!  There are plenty of activities for non-painters to choose from while the group is painting.  Many of our trips work well for those with an interest in nature as non-painters benefit from the attention of the safari guide for in depth animal or bird watching while the group is sketching…

Start dreaming now...

Read through all the Art Holidays and UK Workshops and imagine yourself being there.

We can reserve your place.  We’ll send you log-ins for virtual trips or we’ll help to book your flights.  Tell us about yourself, when you’re available to paint, where you would like to go most, what you want to see and who might enjoy it with you.

We’re planning new destinations all the time, so use the form below to ask about what’s coming up!  Alternatively you can call us on +44 (0)1394 382235 to tell us!

Alongside Art Safari we also organise private tailor-made holidays – ask us about nature worldwide as well as dreamy tours, honeymoons and specialist travel.

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Art Safari Fine Art Editions

Thank you to New Anglia Business Growth Programme and the European Regional Development Fund!

We are setting up Art Safari Fine Art Editions so that we can print your paintings to high quality for your exhibitions and gifts, a move prompted by diversification needed to keep us going during Covid-19.  With a new A1 giclee printer and A3 scanner we’re ready to print editions. Please email about it.  Mary-Anne’s early career and MA was in Fine Art Printmaking, so Art Safari Editions is a natural step.

Our new booking system and this website are also thanks to the same fund – internationalizing our website, making our lives easier and making the information we send out to you smarter.

CHARITY + CARBON OFFSETTING

Tourism supports local economies.  We know that art and travel can make a big difference to communities and to conservation.

Lilongwe Wildlife Trust

We encourage you to offset your carbon footprint when you travel.

Root to Fruit

Forests without Frontiers

Thank you Coasts and Heaths AONB

Suffolk SketchFest

Suffolk SketchFest is an annual outdoor sketching event held in Woodbridge.  SketchFest brings together artists to sketch along the river with art workshops and demos to celebrate the unique area of natural beauty that borders Woodbridge.  Water, mud, boats, people, dogs, birds, meadows, flowers, buildings and the ever-changing tides make this event so varied and so exciting.  This event has been part-funded by the Coast & Heaths AONB Sustainable Development Fund.

• Art and culture on the french riviera
• Private Guided Tours
• Private Shore Excursions
• Antibes St Paul de Vence, Vence
• Cannes & Grasse
• Menton and Italy
• Excursion Perched villages
• Saint Tropez
• Lavender provence
• Food wine & gourmet tours
• Bus groups/business travel
• Transport/Transfers
• Transport and transfer Rates

French Riviera Private Tours

Art and tours tour guide company.

We provide French Riviera Private Tours

cultural & sightseeing  tours     shore excursions         

customized  day trips       transfers    bus      sedan     van

• certified private tour guides on the French Riviera
• registered and licensed  tour guides in France and Monaco
• But also, professional driver tour guides, chauffeurs,  with luxury cars and mini vans or buses
• We are always happy to customize your itinerary and your tour

Experience with us your personal  French Riviera Private Tour

We will be very happy to welcome you  here and share with you our passion for our region, culture, history and heritage.

Since 2003, Art and tours is a major tour guide company, for cultural day trips, sightseeing or walking city tours   of the french riviera

Then, you could feel the   local  and authentic way.  Let us lead you to the way of discovery

From the French riviera, it is possible to combine different ways, and options

Suggestions of French Riviera Private Tours

ART and TOURS provides

Licensed and experienced Certified Tour guides and drivers, private vehicle and luxury sedans or mini vans

ART and Tours  accommodates the best tour guide services and customizes the tour according your wishes.

From Your arrival on the french riviera, at Nice airport, a shore excursion just for a day or several days,  we will be very happy to  guide you here,

• french Riviera private tours the must see places
• Nice , Monaco , St paul de Vence , Antibes,   Menton ,  Cannes & Grasse , Saint Tropez
• French riviera private tours off the beaten tracks , perched villages
• Walking city tours of the french riviera
• Cultural and art tours
• Wine tasting and food tours
• Private certified tour guides and drivers 
• Private Transfers on the french riviera

All our tours are available : French – English – Spanish – please for other languages ask us on request

For your comfort all our tours and transfers are with private mini van, sedan or coach.

For a free quote,  contact us by email or call us directly 00 33 6 18 17 40 52

Nice Eze La Turbie Menton Dolceacqua Villefranche Antibes Saint Paul de Vence Saint Tropez Monaco Tourrettes sur Loup Gourdon

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Whether you are looking to get the most out of a tight budget or prefer premium luxury when discovering Russia, Olta Travel will be your perfect partner.

Let us make your tour to Russia a memorable experience, so you can enjoy a worry-free journey!

• FROM BIG GROUPS TO INDIVIDUALS: we craft a tailored offer for almost any budget, thanks to our distributed network of trusted partners, direct connections with service providers and our own profound knowledge of destinations in Russia. 
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Travel for the culturally curious

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Welcome to ACE Cultural Tours

Expert led cultural tours since 1958.

Our tours aim to uncover cultural intricacies and connections across a wide range of subject areas and themes including art, architecture, archaeology, history, music, regional culture and natural history.

Our itineraries are designed to take in the bigger picture and provide context within a wider cultural landscape. Our Tour Directors illustrate and illuminate their themes with formal lectures and on-site talks. Many itineraries include privileged access, exclusive visits and private concerts to further enhance your enjoyment. No prior knowledge is needed, just an interest in the subjects concerned.

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We send weekly email newsletters with updates on new tour releases, blogs from our expert Tour Directors, and other tour highlights. To sign up to our mailing list, please fill in your details below.

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• Arts & Crafts

Japanese Arts & Crafts

Traditional japanese crafts.

Japan Deluxe Tours highly recommends our best-selling line of Quilt Festival Japan Tour packages to experience craft workshops, visit museums, and shop for decorative goods & materials for future projects. There is no rigid distinction between arts & craft in Japans. Techniques came to Japan from Asian, especially China and Korea, and have since evolved and been refined. Many of Japan's arts and crafts have received recognition from around the world. Our fully-guided Quilt Japan Tours include many of the crafts and activities listed below, as well as hotels, museum admission, most meals, and guided small group tour services.

Tea Ceremony

The Way of Tea

Ikebana - Kado

Traditional Japanese art of flower arrangements

Shodo - Japanese Calligraphy

Japanese Calligraphy is the Way of Writing.

Potted miniature trees considered Japanese works of art.

The art of folding a piece of paper and creating different shapes.

Ukiyo-e is a type of woodblock print and paintings of the Floating World.

The traditional Japanese paper fans

The traditional Japanese poetry art using 5-7-5 syllables.

Kireji Fabric

Kireji is a type of cloth used for mounting scrolls.

Kutani Porcelin

Japanese porcelain from Kutani (now part of Kaga), Ishikawa

Chabana is the term used for the arrangement of flowers in a Japanese tea ceremony.

Tracing it's origins to the Chinese Zheng, the Koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument.

Washi - Japanese Paper

Japanese Paper from the Barks of Kozo, Mitsumata, and Gampi.

Authentic Okinawa Ryukyu Island Fabric Dye Patterns

Lacquer-ware

Lacquer-ware is one of Japanese specialties, it has been loved for a long time. It usually decorated with gold and white color on red or black color.

Satsuma Kiriko Glass

Glassware reproduced from late Meiji period

Fireworks are a popular way activity enjoyed by many during the summer season in Japan.

Ameshin Candy (JDT Recommends)

Japanese hand crafted candy art

Japanese Toys & Games

Japan is famous for producing numerous toys and games that entertain millions around the world. While some of the more popular video games of today come from Japan, some board games and toys that have been around since the Edo period still find popularity today. In fact, the classic Kendama toy has grown so popular, there are now competitions around the world where players show off their best tricks. Similar to Yo-Yo contests, Kendama competitors work hard to amaze the audience with crazy combos and signature moves.

Hanafuda (literally flower cards) are Japanese playing cards that are used to play a variety of games

Japanese Mahjong

Japanese Mahjong is a variation of mahjong popular in Japan

Cho-Han is a traditional dice gambling game in Japan.

Shogi, Japanese chess, was derived from ancient Indian chess.

Reversi is a popular board game played in Japan.

Kendama is a traditional Japanese toy similar to the classic cup-and-ball game.

Building model kits is a popular hobby in Japan enjoyed by anime fans and craftsmen alike.

Gacha Gacha Machines

Gacha Gacha Machines are vending machines that dispense toys in Japan.

Museums and Stores for Japanese Arts, Crafts & Stitching

Interested in a tour with Japanese arts & crafts not listed offered on our website? With Japan Deluxe Tour's flexible and affordable custom tour packages, you can have a tailor-made vacation with your interests in mind for an unforgettable time in Japan. Let us know your interests and we will work with you to make your Japan tour filled with everything you want to see and skip out on the places you don't. Join an ikebana class, learn the ways of the tea ceremony, enjoy traditional Japanese culture and find a new hobby to last you a lifetime with Japan Deluxe Tours!

Moss Village & Wisdom Forest

The best places to see Japanese moss, ranked on the “100 Farm Village Sceneries of Japan”

Mihama Cloth

Japanese fabric store in the famous Nippori Textile Town

Nippori Tomato

The Nippori Tomato is a textile store located in the Nippori Textile Town.

Goshima Baramon (Kite)

Nagasaki traditional hand crafted dragon design Kites.

Imari Porcelain wares made in the town of Arita, Kyushu.

Nishijin Textile Center - Kimono Show & Hand-Weaving Workshop

Kimono Show and Demonstrations.

Kyoto Shibori Museum

Shibori is the method of dyeing cloths.

Sashiko Museum

Japanese traditional form of decorative little stabs.

Quilt Party Retail Shop

Patchwork Shop by Yoko Saito

Okinawa Minsah

Traditional Okinawa textile to show eternal love

Okinawa Sanshin

Three Stringed Okinawa Instrument

Kyoto Shishu Restoration Studio

Dedicated to repairing embroidery and traditional cloth pieces

Yoyogi Park Antique Market

annual antique and crafts flea market held at Yoyogi Park

Yunokuni no Mori - Work Shop

Traditional Japanese handicraft village that showcases different arts & crafts of Ishikawa.

Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design (Workshop)

Museum dedicated to preserving Kyoto's traditional and cultural works of art

Arita Porcelain Park

Admission-free porcelain related theme park in Arita Town of Saga Prefecture

Kawashima Textile Museum

Kawashima Selkon Textile museum exhibiting various works produced by the company and historic textile artifacts

Nippori Textile Town

Great Place for Fabric Shopping at Discounted Prices

Related Arts & Crafts Travel

Misuya Needle (JDT Recommend)

Premier Japanese Sewing Needles

KOHO Japanese Traditional Weaving Studio

research and restoration facility for ancient textiles and traditional weaving techniques

Traditional Japanese Paper store, established in 1653 in the Nihombashi area of Tokyo

Edo Kiriko Glass

Stunning 2-Layered Glass filled with Color

Hakone Yosegizaiku

Traditional Japanese decorative craft based on marquetry works. Popularized during the Edo Period

Arimatsu Tokaido Old Town

Recreated village where guests can enjoy a traditional atmosphere before trying Shibori tie-dyeing

Nomura Tailor (JDT Recommend)

Popular Kyoto Fabric & Craft Shop

Samurai Kembu Theater

Samurai Kembu is the traditional performance art using a Katana and Sensu

Arimatsu Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum

Dye Your Own Shibori

Kyoto Handicraft Center

Japan and Kyoto's Finest Craft Collections including Kimono & Yukata

Japanese Indigo dyeing and the Pure Vegetable Dyeing

Spring Quilt Market

Market based on the popular Tokyo International Quilt Festival

Kitaichi Glass

Glass creation workshop in Hokkaido, Otaru

Craft & Hobby Shop Yuzawaya - Everything related to Handicraft & Fabric

Nishijinori Kobo - Orinasukan

Great Collection of Obi and Fabric

SOU SOU (JDT Recommends)

Traditional Japanese Clothing with a Modern Twist

Ochamori Tea Ceremony

tea ceremony with massive cups

World Tea Museum (Ochanosato)

Composed of a Museum, Tea House and Garden

Shinjuku Tokyu Hands

Unique department store started as a Do It Yourself Store

Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Museum displaying beautifully crafted kimono

FINE ART TOURS NZ

To a land of visionaries, creative thinkers, innovators and entrepreneurs

For a small nation, New Zealand has more than our fair share of internationally recognised artists, designers, chefs, winemakers, musicians and thinkers.

Two of the world’s best sculpture parks – Gibbs Farm and Connells Bay – are located within the Auckland region. Fashion designers continue to export cutting edge designs to the world from their workrooms in New Zealand. Our Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc wines are recognised globally as amongst the best in the world. And several New Zealand arts festivals and events (such as the magnificent World of Wearable Art awards in Wellington) attract global participants and audiences every year.

Our nation was built on courage and creativity

From the Maori (who began to settle here around 1,000 years ago) to the Chinese and Europeans (who began to land ashore in the late 1700’s), to the many other cultural groups who’ve arrived in more recent times, there has been a dedication not just to survive, but to thrive. Our forebears worked with passion and creativity, in virtual isolation, to set the stage for the fresh, inspiring culture we now enjoy in New Zealand.

Allow us to introduce you to the arts & culture of New Zealand

Our full day and half day private tour options in Auckland , Wellington , Christchurch and Dunedin include some of the best creative venues and experiences in New Zealand, guided by mature professionals.

Customised tours are a popular choice for conference and incentive groups, and partner programmes.

Small group NZ touring options will soon be available for private couples, small groups, special interest groups and incentive groups to book – perfect for arts & culture lovers and those interested in immersive travel experiences. Launching April 2024. Register your interest today.

Planning your holiday in New Zealand

New Zealand is famous around the world for spectacular scenery, pristine natural environments, and friendly people. But there are lots of other reasons to get excited about vacationing here! Whether you want to meet local artists and artisans, get off the beaten track or discover the finest food and wine producers in the country, we’re here to help.

Talk to us if you want to go beyond the ‘top ten on Tripadvisor’

Our team is widely travelled and have first-hand experience of a wide range of accommodation, activities and attractions throughout New Zealand. Including many options that are difficult to find online from abroad but offer visitors a wonderful experience.

We put our clients first and foremost, offering advice to suit your needs, no matter how boutique or specialised your interests are.

The advice we provide our clients is unbiased as we are not reliant on commissions paid by tourism businesses for us to recommend their products and services. Our service is paid for by you, so you’ll get exactly what you’re looking for – local expertise and in-depth unbiased advice. Get started with our online questionnaire to get the ball rolling!

our commitment to sustainability

We’re committed to operating our business in a way that treats the environment and the people we work with in a respectful manner. We strongly believe in focusing on the long-term implications of our actions today to help the planet and those we share it with. We aim to think beyond short term gains that may be detrimental to the environment and the community. We encourage everyone we work with to do the same, including our customers.

Fine Art Tours NZ is gold certified by Tourism New Zealand’s Qualmark whose Sustainable Tourism Business Criteria are recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council for being equivalent to the GSTC Industry Criteria. 

We actively encourage our clients to follow the Tiaki promise when travelling in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Rural Artist Studio Tour highlights local creators

F ORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE)— Next weekend, a free, self-guided art tour is happening featuring nine full-time, local artists and their work.

Lisa Vetter and Holly Heath, co-founders of the Rural Artist Studio Tour, stopped by the WANE 15 studio to talk about the 14th annual tour. You can see that in the interview above.

The Rural Artist Studio Tour will be on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The route stretches from northeast Fort Wayne to Spencerville, Ind. A link to the tour’s Facebook page is here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WANE 15.

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Happy Together Tour 2024 (Prescott Valley) | Findlay Toyota Center

Get ready to groove at the Happy Together Tour happening at Findlay Toyota Center on July 14, 2024. The concert will kick off at 3201 N. Main Street, Prescott Valley, AZ, 86314. This musical extravaganza promises to be a night to remember, featuring a lineup of legendary artists belting out their greatest hits. From timeless classics to chart-topping favorites, the Happy Together Tour will have the audience on their feet and singing along all night long. So mark your calendars because tickets for this epic event will go on sale starting January 12, 2024, at 5:00 PM, and will be available until July 15, 2024, at 4:00 AM. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of the Happy Together Tour live in concert.

Provided by Ziporah | Published Apr 30, 2024

Are you interested in Happy Together Tour 2024 (Prescott Valley)?

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Vote for your favorite adventure tour operator!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour, they'll have something for you, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking. Which adventure tour operator would you most like to book with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour operators will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour,...   Read More

Best Adventure Tour Operator Nominees

Photo courtesy of Todd Mintz

Adventure Canada

Equipped with a fleet of small-scale cruise liners, Adventure Canada has mastered the art of both Arctic and Antarctic excursions. Across Canada, the Northwest Passage voyage highlights the idyllic beauty of Nunavut, while those hoping to spot polar bears in the wild should spring for a Heart of the Arctic expedition, with both featuring highly educated naturalists and archaeologists aboard the ship.

Photo courtesy of Tyson Mayr

Aurora Expeditions

A pioneer of Antarctic travel in the 20th century, Aurora Expeditions has evolved into a force within the industry that offers trips all across the globe. Polar voyages are particularly popular, with options ranging from the shores of Antarctica to the High Arctic, while other cruise routes include Costa Rica, Scotland, and Iceland.

Photo courtesy of Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours specializes in small group adventures with a focus on the American Southwest, Alaska, and western Canada. Guests enjoy fully customized touring vehicles with enlarged viewing windows, free Wi-Fi at most campsites, and the myriad benefits of insider expertise, like the best spots to photograph a sunset or favorite local restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Kirstie Mullikin

Explorer Chick Adventure Co.

From snorkeling around the Galapagos to gorilla trekking in Uganda, Explorer Chick’s curated tours span five separate continents — and each one is crafted specifically by women, for women. Founded in 2014 by Nicki Bruckmann, this adventure company provides ample opportunity to explore gorgeous landscapes and forge new friendships all across the globe.

Photo courtesy of GomezDavid / E+ Getty Images

Frontiers North Adventures

While northern Canada may not be the most easily accessed region, Frontiers North Adventures is perfectly equipped for making your dream excursion come true. In addition to polar bear safaris and beluga whale watching, the company's Northern Lights and Winter Nights excursion offers an opportunity to catch one of the planet's most stunning natural phenomena in real life.

Photo courtesy of G Adventures, Inc.

G Adventures

Launched in 1990, G Adventures has earned acclaim for their wide array of high-end tours and strong commitment to positive social impact. Whether it's hiking in Iceland or biking in Vietnam, each trip is designed to reflect the company's G for Good philosophy, a concept that seeks to benefit all people and communities visited during a trip.

Photo courtesy of HX & Espen Mills

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has earned widespread acclaim for their lavish cruises, with destinations ranging from the frigid depths of Antarctica to the sunny shores of the Caribbean. For wildlife lovers in particular, the company's Galapagos expeditions shine a spotlight on the rich biodiversity of the archipelago, while a Svalbard voyage is perfect for spotting polar bears in their natural habitat.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Toronto-based Intrepid is a treasure trove for small-scale sustainable tours, with more than 100 countries available to visit. With itineraries like lemur-spotting in the rural depths of Madagascar and cultural immersions across the Middle East, this storied adventure company is perfect for accessing some of the most remote corners of the globe.

Photo courtesy of Journeys International

Journeys International

Journeys International builds private and group trips to a variety of worldwide destinations, centering each adventure around the individual's or groups' travel goals. Each party is assigned an adventure specialist who makes personalized choices of locations and activities to include in the experience. All journeys are designed to give every person involved a special and unique trip of a lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Ralph Lee Hopkins, Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

New Zealand, French Polynesia, and Greenland are just a few of the dazzling destinations frequented by Lindblad Expeditions, a storied tour operator that's been working in tandem with National Geographic since 2004. While warm weather destinations span from Baja California to the Amazon, the company has earned abundant acclaim for their immersive Antarctic expeditions focusing on native wildlife amidst stunning scenery.

Photo courtesy of KenCanning / E+ Getty Images

Maple Leaf Adventures

The spectacular beauty of Canada is on full display with Maple Leaf Adventures, a small-ship cruise operator that's been in the business since 1986. While the bulk of their itineraries focus on showcasing locations across western Canada, gastronomes can also join in on the fun with a curated Craft Beer Cruise or Wines And Islands excursion across British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Karin Watkins MT Sobek Photo File

MT Sobek has been a leader in the adventure travel industry for more than half a century. Today, travelers can choose from some 200 journeys around the world. Each one is designed to inspire and exhilarate, with interest categories like multi-adventure, family adventure, wildlife and safari, adventure cruising, hiking and trekking, cultural discovery, and rafting and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Beginning as a small-scale rafting tour company back in 1972, Nantahala Outdoor Center has expanded far beyond just the rivers of North Carolina, operating tours from southern Iceland to the Zambezi River. Though their scope has expanded on an international scale, the company still excels at domestic adventure, showcasing the incredible rafting opportunities across the Southern United States.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

Adventure travelers have long turned to REI to outfit their travels; with REI Adventures, they’ll also find more than 100 fully curated experiences across the United States. These active travel itineraries might involve cycling near Zion National Park, hiking through Yellowstone and Grand Teton, kayaking at Point Reyes, or enjoying a weekend of backpacking close to home.

Photo courtesy of Stubborn Mule Travel

Stubborn Mule Travel

A perfect fit for all ages, Stubborn Mule Travel has curated a wide variety of itineraries designed specifically for traveling families. Destinations span across five continents, and as an added bonus, the company also offers unique itinerary stops based off of the interests of each individual guest.

Photo courtesy of 104kelly // Getty Images

Thomson Safaris

Best known as the home of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has earned worldwide acclaim for its abundant natural beauty — a quality that Thomson Safaris has been highlighting for more than 40 years. While there’s no going wrong with a classic safari, the company also offers food-focused tours and even plane excursions, each one led by a team of expert local guides.

Photo courtesy of Urban Events Global Team

Urban Events Global

Kevin Knight founded Urban Events Global as a travel company for African American adventure seekers looking to explore with like-minded travelers. The company hosts regular camping weekends, as well as group tours to destinations like Ghana, Dubai, Greece, and Jamaica. They can also plan a custom trip itinerary for you.

Photo courtesy of Ren Fuller // Women High On Adventure

WHOA Travel

WHOA Travel works with women guides and business owners to build unique travel experiences. WHOA group adventures are scheduled all over the world, from Kilimanjaro and Peru to Iceland and Bavaria. 

Photo courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Photo courtesy of Beth Peluse / Zephyr Adventures

Zephyr Adventures

Equipped with a roster of trips that span from strenuous mountain hikes to e-biking excursions, Zephyr Adventures offers a diverse range of options for your next getaway. For a glimpse into the beauty of coastal New England, the Acadia National Park Hiking Adventure is a top choice, while those who prefer a more laid-back itinerary can spring for the Czech Republic Breweries and Walking Adventure.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home...   Read More

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of Read More

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com , the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter  and Instagram .

Olivia Christine Perez

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel...   Read More

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of  O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at  ochristine.com  and  instagram.com/ochristine.

Shea Peters

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent...   Read More

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent world traveler that looks to the history of a location in order to tell the story. Growing up in a Southern family that loves to travel, Shea has seen 44 of the 50 US states and believes that every place has a story worth telling, regardless of how populated or rural. She's currently a regular contributor discussing travel, culture, history, food, wellness, and business at Travel + Leisure, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Oprah Daily, Women’s Health, TripAdvisor, Cosmo, and Revolt TV. When she's not traveling, rooting for some unlikable sports team, or taking a pilates class, you can find Shea in her rooftop garden that is currently flourishing above the streets of New York City. You can follow Shea on  Instagram  and  Twitter .

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.