Highlights of Japan

Highlights of Japan

8,420 Views
8 Days
From

$5207

$2864

Highlights of Japan

8 Days Starting in Tokyo and ending in Kyoto

Visiting: Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Hiroshima, Itsukushima, Himeji Castle, Kyoto

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

JP8

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 18

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-39

Tour operated in:
English
Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From:
$5207
$2864 (USD) Operator discount: -$2343 -45%

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Discover colourful cultures, tasty cuisines, and enchanting cities as you follow your local guide on the 8-day highlights of Japan tour. Start your adventure in the bustling city of Tokyo, checking out the world-famous fish markets and neon-lit bars of Shinjuku. Marvel at the picture-perfect views of Mt Fuji on Lake Ashinoko and listen to your guide as they share hair-raising stories of Hiroshima’s historic past. Finish your adventure with us in Kyoto and explore a city brimming with temples, shrines, gardens and restaurants in your own time!



Highlights

  • This 8-day adventure gives a snapshot into the highlights of Japan from the Geishas of Kyoto to the Golden Gai Bars of Tokyo.

  • Enjoy extended two-night stays with free time in Tokyo, Takayama, and Hiroshima to embrace each city and its culture like a local!

  • Tour finishes in Kyoto with the freedom to explore the cultural and historical hub at your own pace!

  • Learn how to make Japanese pancakes in Hiroshima, taste-test sashimi and at the local fish markets or explore the neon-lit backstreets of Tokyo!

Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1 : Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sunroute Asakusa Hotel – 3 Star
Meals Included: No Meals

Kon’nichiwa and welcome to the capital of Japan – Tokyo! Meet your group and tour leader for an informal welcome meeting in the hotel lobby at 6.30pm, before going out for an optional group dinner. With a population of above 10 million people, Tokyo offers endless choices when it comes to shopping, green spaces, entertainment, historical sites, culture, and dining!



Day 2 : Tokyo, Hakone
Location: Tokyo, Hakone
Accommodation: Ichinoyu Shinkan – Ryokan
Meals Included: Breakfast

Make the best of this morning in Tokyo on your own terms, or you can join an optional ‘Kitchen Tour’ to the world-famous Tsukiji fish market to sample some of Japan’s iconic and tasty seafood and sashimi. This tour will follow a local guide through Tsukiji’s outer markets, brimming with food stalls and retail shops. With over 2,500 tons and 450 types of fish coming through the wholesale market each day, your guide will provide plenty of information about the operations and importance of this world-famous fish market and the legendary tuna auctions. Next up, visit a nearby sake shop to sample Japan’s beloved beverage of choice!



We will farewell Tokyo for the breath-taking Hakone region at noon. Grab a seat for the two-hour train journey as we head towards the mountainous town known for its hot springs (onsen) resorts and views of Mount Fuji. On arrival in Hakone, follow your guide on a walking tour and take a scenic boat tour along Lake Ashinoko while you snap some picture-perfect shots of Mount Fuji. Explore the Hakone Shrine along the shore of Lake Ashinoko and visit the Tokaido Checkpoint to learn about its significance. Alternatively, you have the option to view the unique installations at Hakone Open Air Museum. Finish up the day with an included 30-minute gondola ride on the Owakudani Cable Car for views of the active sulfuric hot springs, Lake Ashinoko and Mount Fuji from above!



Day 3 : Hakone, Takayama
Location: Takayama
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: WAT Hotel – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast

Kick-start the day with a scenic mountain train ride and hop on an express/bullet train that reaches speeds of 270 kilometers per hour as we make our way to Takayama! The journey will take approximately 5 hours and includes travel by local train and Shinkansen Bullet Train. Takayama is a charming city hidden in the mountainous region of Hida and made famous for its authentic Japanese touch and preserved old towns. This afternoon hop on a local bus for the Hida Folk Village and tag along your expert local guide to get a glimpse of a beautifully preserved sample of the Japanese culture, strolling along traditional thatched-roof homes built during the Edo Period of 1603-1967! Learn about the traditional Japanese way of life, crafts, and culture of these olden times. Tonight, put your feet up at the 4-star Wat Hotel and make the most of the beautiful onsen and spas.



Day 4 : Takayama
Location: Takayama
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: WAT Hotel – 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast

After an included breakfast at the hotel, explore Takayama’s morning market with your tour leader as we embark on our walking tour. This traditional market was established over 600 years ago and is a great way to interact with locals and tourists alike as your browse the crafts, flowers, and fresh produce for sale. Continue strolling the town with visits to the Merchant House and Takayama Jinja Building. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the quaint town of Takayama, go on a nature walk, or hop on the optional day trip to Shirakawago with your guide at noon. If you enjoy sake, make sure to have a taste of Takayama’s prized signature drop at a local store.



Day 5 : Takayama, Hiroshima
Location: Hiroshima
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: ARK Hotel Hiroshimaeki Minami – 3 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel by express train and Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima (approximately 5 hours). Hiroshima is well known for the 1945 atomic bomb attack which destructed the entire city within a 2km radius. After the war, great efforts were taken to rebuild Hiroshima. The city was tastefully reconstructed in a way that still pays tribute to the suffering, with a large park built in the city centre – Peace Memorial Park. Following your guide through the park, you will visit the Peace Memorial Museum to learn of the historical war events that took place here. Then, visit the A-Bomb Dome, one of few buildings that remained standing following the attack. Explore the somber UNESCO World Heritage Site and listen carefully as your guide shares stories of Hiroshima’s unique past. This evening, you can explore Hiroshima on your own, or join an optional Cooking Class & Dinner and learn to make a signature Japanese dish, the Okonomiyaki or savoury pancake!



Day 6 : Hiroshima, Miyajima Island
Location: Itsukushima
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: ARK Hotel Hiroshimaeki Minami – 3 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast

Known as the ‘romantic shrine Island’ just 1 hour outside of Hiroshima, Miyajima Island makes for the perfect day trip and is home to some of Japan’s best views. Visit the island with your local guide and explore the famous floating Torii Gate and Itsukushima-jinja Shrine. Then, hop on the nearby cable car to the top of Mt Misen and embrace the 360-degree views of the inland sea. Enjoy some photo opportunities on the mountain top before returning to Hiroshima with free time in the late afternoon to enjoy the sites of the city. Your guide will be more than happy to offer tips and suggestions on what to see and do during your final night in Hiroshima.



Day 7 : Hiroshima, Himeji Castle, Kyoto
Location: Himeji Castle, Kyoto
Accommodation: Heianbo Ryokan
Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel by Shinkansen bullet train for approximately 1 hour before arriving at the spectacular Hemeji Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed castle is 400-year-old national treasure and has never been destroyed by war, earthquake, or fire. Explore the enchanting white castle with your guide before continuing to Kyoto via Shinkansen Bullet Train (approximately 1 hour). Considered the cultural and historic heart of the country, Kyoto is brimming with temples, shrines, peaceful gardens, geisha, restaurants, and shops. This traditional city is the perfect place to get lost in! After checking into the hotel, enjoy free time to explore Kyoto at your own pace.



If you are feeling adventurous in the evening, join the group for an optional Kyoto Lanes & Lanterns walking tour to wander the backstreets of Gion, visit local spots off the beaten track, sample tasty Japanese snacks and explore the wooden walls and lanterns of Yasaka Shrine.



Day 8 : Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we saw our goodbyes! Enjoy a final breakfast together before hotel check-out at 11:00. Roam through the backstreets of Kyoto one last time before farewelling your new travel mates – until next time!



What's Included

  • Meals

    7 Breakfasts

  • Accommodation

    4 & 3 Star Hotels, Japanese-style Ryokans

  • Train

    Express/bullet train, local & mountain train

  • Transportation

    Train, local bus, luggage transfers

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of local experienced Travel Talk Tour Leader licenced by the Ministry of Tourism

  • Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation

    Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access (where available)

What's Not Included

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to the sights and museums

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Optional activities

Add Ons

Local Payment: £

Check out our Q&As

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes, children age 18 and above are allowed

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    No

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Yes

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    No

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this Operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

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Scarlett Lily  

One of the best holidays I’ve had

25-Feb-2021

We went on a tour of the Balkans and it was above our expectations. Bojan was the best tour leader gave us so much information about the places we were visiting but also a great laugh! The tour ran so smoothly and was the perfect way to see the area in a little amount of time. It was one of the best holidays I have been on, I loved every minute of it and I can’t wait to book another tour with travel talk. They are great value for money!

Trustpilot
James Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

Just completed the exotic Morocco...

29-Oct-2023

Just completed the exotic Morocco tour with our excellent guide Abdul! He was one of the best tour guides I have met, he brought so much energy and knowledge on the tour and could not imagine doing the tour without him. The tour itself was so diverse, seeing so many different landscapes. It has been one of the best trips I have done. Would highly recommend!

Caroline Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

My partner and I thoroughly...

25-Dec-2023

My partner and I thoroughly enjoyed our 9 Day Essential Turkey tour with Mustafa as our guide. His attentiveness to the group's needs was amazing, going above and beyond to ensure an stress-free experience. Mustafa provided valuable local insights, guiding us on the best areas to visit and helping us find good local deals. Overall, we found the tour to be excellent value for money, and we were particularly impressed with traveltalks accommodation choices—clean, spacious, and offering great meal options. Additionally, the inclusion of two drivers for our safety during long journeys added an extra layer of reassurance to our memorable trip. Thank you to Mustafa!

Tegan Bull (Google Reviewer)  

Unforgettable Turkey Essentials: A Journey...

25-Dec-2023

Unforgettable Turkey Essentials: A Journey with Travel Talk I recently had the pleasure of embarking on the Turkey Essentials tour with Travel Talk, and let me tell you, it was an adventure like no other! From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient wonders of Ephesus, this tour was a perfect blend of culture, history, and pure fun. Travel Talk ensured that every aspect of our trip was well-planned. The accommodations were comfortable, the transportation was smooth, and the itinerary was perfectly curated to showcase the best of Turkey's rich history and vibrant culture. If you're looking for an incredible adventure in Turkey, I wholeheartedly recommend Travel Talk. Their attention to detail, knowledgeable guides (Mustafa), ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a thrilling travel experience, Travel Talk has got you covered. Thank you, Travel Talk for an extraordinary tour that surpassed all expectations. I'll cherish the memories and stories from this adventure for a lifetime.

Diane Horsman  

Fantastic tour, personable experiences

19-Oct-2021

My first tour with Traveltalk to Jordan was fantastic. Everything was very well planned, the itinerary was timed to perfection and jam packed with amazing experiences. The tour guide Issa went above and beyond to make everyone happy and have the best experience possible, taking us to local restaurants and telling us the best things to eat. Our bus broke down on the way to the Dead Sea and he dealt with it really quickly, and a replacement bus arrived in less than an hour. He treated us all like his friend rather than just a job which make the tour even more special. The hotels were fab and had everything that we needed, all I great locations to local attractions. I booked another tour but had to cancel due to Covid and Traveltalk have placed my deposit aside ready to use on the next trip. I can’t wait to book again with them.

Trustpilot
Eric Gunther (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 12 day...

12-Sep-2023

We did the 12 day Turkey tour with the Gullet option, and loved it! The price was super reasonable, Travel Talk was always extremely responsive whenever I reached out. Most importantly, we visited an amazing array of impressive historical sites, saw the profound and varied natural beauty of Turkey and enjoyed incredible experiences like hot air ballooning and paragliding. Mustafa was the best tour guide we have ever had. His knowledge and organizational skills were top notch, he helped with everything (even with arranging laundry services) and was hilarious as well. The food was tasty, the hotels were good and the boat trip was fun and relaxing with beautiful scenery and a lot of swimming. The cabins on the boat weren’t air conditioned and were pretty hot at night, so some people slept on deck where there were plenty of places with cushions where you could stretch out and get a good nights rest. I highly recommend this tour!!

Hazel Kuzu (Google Reviewer)  

The 9-day Turkey Essentials tour...

03-Dec-2023

The 9-day Turkey Essentials tour with Travel Talk Tours exceeded our expectations! The well-crafted itinerary showcased Turkey's best, complemented by excellent hotel choices. Mustafa, our guide, added depth with his rich knowledge, engaging storytelling and brilliant sense of humour. The seamless experience, from transportation, meals, accommodations, sightseeing and optional activities made this tour unforgettable. Highly recommended for those seeking a perfect blend of culture and comfort in Turkey.

Tronix4eva (Google Reviewer)  

Wow. 9 Day Essential Turkey...

21-Oct-2023

Wow. 9 Day Essential Turkey Tour with Mustafa from Travel Talk Tours. Absolutely exceeded all expectations. I am in love with Turkey! The sights, the places, the hotels, the food, the bus and the antics of our amazing guide was seriously fantastic. This was an unforgettable experience and I am so glad I stumbled across Travel Talk and chose them. Mustafa you made me laugh and made us all feel so safe and welcome.. best guide I've ever had. ❤️

BEN LAWN  

Mustafa is the key to a fantastic Essential Turkey tour

06-Dec-2021

My partner and I did the Essential Turkey tour in November/December 2021. We had a fantastic time, and can both only recommend Travel Talk and this tour. Mustafa Kurt, our incredible guide, is really who sets this tour apart from any competition. He conducts the majority of Travel Talk's Essential Turkey, so you may get lucky if you book. Mustafa is an extremely qualified tour guide, with an extraordinary tourism CV, who wholly commits to ensuring that those on his tour have the very best Turkey experience possible. The man goes well above and beyond, without even thinking twice. He is a natural leader, whilst also being a friend. He was hilarious to have around us, bringing all the laughs and very much aiding in bringing the group together. His knowledge of Turkey is second to none, and he never lets this or his jokes get stale. The minibus that we used was better than expected - modern and comfy. We also had two drivers, adding to safety and ability to cover the long distances required. The hotels on the tour do vary, but are generally good. Travel Talk were responsive during booking, and flexible when it came to us having to delay due to Covid.

Trustpilot

Dates & Availability

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 02, 2024 - Jun 09, 2024
$5207 $2864 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2343 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 16, 2024 - Jun 23, 2024
$5207 $2864 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2343 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 14, 2024 - Jul 21, 2024
$5207 $2864 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2343 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 28, 2024 - Aug 04, 2024
$5207 $2864 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2343 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 25, 2024 - Sep 01, 2024
$5207 $2864 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2343 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 08, 2024 - Sep 15, 2024
$5417 $2979 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2438 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 22, 2024 - Sep 29, 2024
$5417 $2979 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2438 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 29, 2024 - Oct 06, 2024
$5417 $2979 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2438 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 13, 2024 - Oct 20, 2024
$5417 $2979 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2438 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 03, 2024 - Nov 10, 2024
$5207 $2864 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2343 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 17, 2024 - Nov 24, 2024
$5207 $2864 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2343 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 24, 2024 - Dec 01, 2024
$5207 $2864 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2343 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 08, 2024
$5417 $2979 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2438 (USD)

Instant Booking Available

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 15, 2024 - Dec 22, 2024
$5417 $2979 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2438 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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