Luxury Escapes has announced its newest Signature Series tour, a 7-day foodie and cultural highlights sojourn to Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo, hosted by Australian chef and MasterChef alumni Khanh Ong.
In a recent Luxury Escapes traveller survey, Japan ranked as the No.1 most desirable destination for 2026 with our love for the country showing no sign of slowing down, with demand up 29 per cent year-on-year.
Luxury Escapes Signature Series tours are small-group journeys personally hosted by some of Australia’s favourite personalities, alongside local guides, offering exclusive access, insider experiences and a bespoke itinerary incorporating culture and culinary highlights.
Ong gained national recognition on MasterChef Australia and has appeared on All Stars Back To Win, Survivor and I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here. He has also authored A Gay Man’s Guide to Food and is working on his second book A Table for One.
‘I write my recipes on airplanes’ – Khanh Ong at Cathay Pacific launch event
Ong says Japan is one of the rare destinations where everyday convenience store fare can rival the excitement and flavour of the world’s finest restaurants.
“At one end of the spectrum, you’ve got unreal sashimi and sushi at Tokyo’s world-class fish markets, plus Michelin-star level ramen bars basically everywhere you turn,” Ong said.
And at the other end?
“The humble Japanese konbini (convenience stores) have cult status for a reason, ridiculously good egg sandos, and a head-spinning range of super fresh, seriously delicious onigiri and bento boxes, which I’m always so keen to explore.
“We’ve put together an itinerary that hits Japan’s most iconic sights, powered by regular food stops at some of my favourite restaurants and ramen bars and I honestly couldn’t be more excited.”
Tour highlights
- Osaka: Sushi-making masterclass and street food tour through Dotonbori, the city’s bustling culinary district.
- Osaka: Dinner at Chibo Okonomiyaki Restaurant, famed for its signature okonomiyaki.
- Nara: Visit Nara Park, one of Japan’s oldest parks, home to sacred temples and freely roaming Sika deer.
- Kyoto: Walking tour through Gion, the city’s historic Geisha district.
- Kyoto: Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its red torii gates and fox statues.
- Tokyo: Discover Tsukiji Outer Fish Market, featuring more than 400 seafood specialty stalls.
The 7-day Japan tour will depart on the 14th of October 2026, is limited to 24 people and is on sale from $6,399 per person and $5,899 for LuxPlus+ members. Further details available at Luxury
