Signature Series: Japan Art, Architecture & Design Tour with Grand Designs Australia Host Anthony Burke
From cutting-edge installations on Japan’s ‘art islands’ and modern marvels in Tokyo to ancient Zen temples and wabi-sabi pavilions, this exclusive Signature Series tour offers an unmatched opportunity to experience the design, art and culture that makes Japan a destination like no other.
Join Anthony Burke, professor of architecture and renowned host of Grand Designs Australia, for a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Japan. Much like Shibuya Crossing itself, this bespoke itinerary is an intersection of Japan’s bold and minimal, old and new – from iconic museums and cutting-edge design districts to authentic cuisine and bucket-list sights – all delivered with the ease and expertise of world-class travel. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or discovering Japan’s dynamic cities for the first time, this expert-led tour is a rare opportunity.
Anthony Burke brings 25 years of experience as an expert host, presenter, architectural writer and Professor of Architecture at the University of Technology Sydney. He currently hosts ABC series including Grand Designs Australia, Restoration Australia and Grand Designs Transformations. A regular contributor to architectural media and public forums, he writes for ABC News Online and serves as editor-at-large for Grand Designs Magazine.
This small-group tour takes you straight to the foundations of Japan’s most fascinating works of art. Begin in Tokyo, where you’ll dive into the creative chaos of Harajuku and Omotesando, viewing architectural icons by Kengo Kuma and Jun Aoki. Witness the immersive spectacle of teamLab Borderless, where futuristic art installations meet endless photo opportunities.
Visit Hakone to witness the spectacular views of Enoura Observatory, before moving onto Kyoto, where you’ll begin with a guided tour of Katsura Imperial Villa, one of Japan’s most revered examples of shoin-zukuri architecture. Later, join Anthony Burke for an exploration of the Philosopher’s Path – an iconic, canal-side walk lined with cherry trees, leading from the historic Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion).
Zip to Okayama via bullet train and use this dynamic city as your launchpad to Japan’s legendary ‘art islands’ – Teshima and Naoshima. On Teshima, uncover the quietly powerful Teshima Art Museum, where a single concrete shell captures the essence of water, wind and light. Visit Yokoo House, a collaboration between artist Tadanori Yokoo and architect Yuko Nagayama. Then, on Naoshima, explore the renowned Benesse House Museum, perched above the Seto Inland Sea.
Round off your odyssey in Osaka. Visit the gleaming Himeji Castle, then explore Tadao Ando’s Honpukuji Water Temple, a serene concrete temple crowned with a lotus pond. Wander the retro streets of Shinsekai, dive into Dotonbori’s neon buzz and street eats, and explore the Nakanoshima Museum of Art.
With signature highlights throughout and expert commentary from Anthony Burke, this is more than a tour – it’s a front-row seat to Japan’s most iconic sights and innovative design. Departing once only – don’t miss out.
