Ultimate Japan
Ultimate Japan
Ultimate Japan
14 Days Starting in Tokyo and ending in Osaka
Visiting: Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Hiroshima, Itsukushima, Himeji Castle, Kyoto, Koyasan, Osaka
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JPU
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 18
Physical rating:
Low
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
From:
$7699
$4234 (USD)
Operator discount: -$3465
-45%
Tour Overview
Discover more than just chaotic cities and mountainous landscapes on this ultimate 15-day adventure through Japan. Explore the cultural hubs of Kyoto and Osaka as you learn about Geishas, visit enchanting castles and discover the beautifully quaint backstreets. Spend an evening sleeping at a Buddhist monastery in Mount Koya. Embrace Tokyo’s blend of new and old as visit local fish markets and explore neon-lit neighbourhoods. Follow your guide through the historic heartlands of Takayama and Hiroshima. Travel in style with bullet trains, gondola rides, and boat trips to ensure you get the most out of your adventure!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel
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
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise and shine in the city of Tokyo! After a full breakfast, follow your tour leader to learn about the diverse history and colourful culture of Japan as we visit the Hama Rikyu Garden and Meiji Jingu (Shrine), before making the famous Shibuya/Harajuku walk in the city. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to shape your adventure to your likes. Your tour leader will be happy to recommend the best places and activities to your taste. You can catch some fresh air at the public Ueno Park and visit the Tokyo National Museum within. Or explore one of the many fascinating museums across the city including Edo-Tokyo Museum, Hokusai Museum, or Odaiba Team Labo – home to immersive, futuristic art installations.
Late in the afternoon, you can join the optional ‘Tokyo Flavours and Dishses’ tour of Shinjuku’s famous bar region. Shinjuku has been deemed the ‘place to be’ when the sun goes down and is home to the tiny, 8-seater Gold Gai bars! Enjoy happy hour Japanese-style, stroll alleyways filled with bars and snacks, and an authentic night out in Tokyo!
Day 3 : Tokyo, Hakone
Location: Tokyo, Hakone
Accommodation: Hotel
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 4 : Hakone, Takayama
Location: Takayama
Accommodation: Hotel
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 5 : Takayama
Location: Takayama
Accommodation: Hotel
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 6 : Takayama, Hiroshima
Location: Hiroshima
Accommodation: Hotel
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 7 : Hiroshima, Miyajima Island
Location: Itsukushima
Accommodation: Hotel
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 8 : Hiroshima, Himeji Castle, Kyoto
Location: Himeji Castle, Kyoto
Accommodation: Hotel
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 9 : Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day to explore the cultural hub of Japan as we roam the city by public bus! Your tour guide will lead you to three or four of the best temples depending on the season, so listen carefully as they explain the significance and history of these fascinating sites.
Learn about the best spots to visit around town and enjoy the afternoon freely to continue your discovery of charming Kyoto with your bus pass valid for the day.
Accommodation
Heianbo Ryokan
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Kyoto Sightseeing (1-day public bus pass)
Entrance Fees
Kiyomizu-dera - 400 JPY
Imperial Palace - Free
Nanzenji Temple - Free
Shosei Strolling Garden - 500 JPY
Nishiki-Koji Market - Free
Gion Corner cultural centre - 3,150 JPY
Ryoanji Zen Garden - 500 JPY
Tenryuji Temple - 600 JPY
National Museum - 500 JPY
Day 10 : Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours to explore Kyoto and the surrounding towns! If exploring Buddhist temples and hanging out with friendly deer sounds tempting to you, join an optional half-day tour to the neighbouring city of Nara. Join a local guide as you meet the holy deer of Nara, learn about the surrounding temples, and stroll the beautiful backstreets of the old town. Feeling active in the afternoon? Join the group for a unique shopping tour with a local! This optional tour will take you to one of the most romantic and iconic regions of the city – Miyagawa-cho. Then, learn how to make two of the country’s favourite treats – Sake and Wagashi Sweets. This optional tour also visits to a 300-year-old tearoom to try an abundance of different Japanese green teas. Don’t forget to ask your guide what unique souvenirs you can purchase along the way!
Alternatively, ask your local guide for tips and recommendations on what to do for a day exploring Kyoto independently.
Day 11 : Kyoto, Mount Koya
Location: Koyasan
Accommodation: Monastery
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we will leave Kyoto and travel by train, cable car, and local bus (approximately 3 hours) before arriving at Mount Koya. Home to a small mountaintop Buddhist community, Mount Koya (Koyasan) is one of Japan’s most magical destinations. Tonight, we will experience a stay like no other at a traditional Shukubo, a Buddhist Temple lodging. Mount Koya is home to more than 100 temples and monasteries, some of which you will visit with your local guide. The most famous and sacred landmark here is the otherworldly Okunoin Cemetery. Follow your guide as they share stories of the cemetery and explore the location of Kobo Daishi’s (the founder of Shingon Buddhism) mausoleum. Visit the headquarters of Shingon at Kongobuji Temple and marvel at the beautiful Japanese rock gardens while you are here. After a day exploring Mount Koya, we will enjoy an included Shojin Ryori dinner, Buddhist vegeterian cuisine!
Day 12 : Mount Koya, Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up early to catch the morning prayer service at your Shukubo lodge. Here you will witness the sacred Goma Ritual where a priest will burn wooden sticks in a fire to destroy negative energies and thoughts while beating the taiko drums and chanting. The ceremony is said to create a trance-like state and have a profound effect on those who witness it – so keep an open mind! Then, hop on a local bus, cable car, and train (approximately 2 hours) as we make our way to the city of Osaka. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Japan’s second-largest metropolitan area. You have the option to join Kansai Soul tour to discover why Osaka is considered the soul of the Kansai region. Explore old backstreets, markets, and retail areas away from tourists; discover the New York-inspired neighbourhood of Shinsekai; wander through the flashy, glittering, famed district of Dotonbori; and sample famous Osaka treats like kushi-katsu and takoyaki octopus balls.
Day 13 : Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fill up on breakfast because a big day exploring Osaka awaits! This vibrant and eclectic city is the heart and soul of the Kansai region, so let us get straight into it. First up, follow your guide to the Kuromon food market and explore some 150 shops selling culinary delights including fresh seafood, yakitori, sushi, and traditional sweets. Next up, make your way to Osaka Castle and explore the surrounding citadels, gates, and impressive stone moats. Continue with a stroll through Osaka’s unmissable Dotombori district to check out the neon-lit canals and try some Japanese-style street food. Spend your afternoon freely to shape your experience to your taste, there is no shortage of things to do in Osaka. Join your tour leader and travel mates for an optional group dinner to bid a proper farewell on our last night.
Day 14 : Osaka
Location: Osaka
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 Osaka one last time before farewelling your new travel mates — until next time!
What's Included
-
Meals
13 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner
-
Accommodation
4 and 3 star hotels, Japanese-style ryokans, mountain monastery
-
Train
Express/bullet train, local & mountain train
-
Transportation
Train, cable car, 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
-
Tipping and Gratuities
-
Optional activities
-
Items of a personal nature
-
Travel Insurance
-
Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to the sights and museums
-
International Travel
Add Ons
Local Payment: £
Check out our Q&As
-
Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No
-
Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No
-
Are flights included in this tour?
No
-
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
-
Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Yes, children age 18 and above are allowed
-
Are airport transfers included in this tour?
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
Dates & Availability
Saturday - Friday
Jun 01, 2024 - Jun 14, 2024Saturday - Friday
Jun 15, 2024 - Jun 28, 2024Saturday - Friday
Jul 13, 2024 - Jul 26, 2024Saturday - Friday
Jul 27, 2024 - Aug 09, 2024Saturday - Friday
Aug 24, 2024 - Sep 06, 2024Saturday - Friday
Sep 07, 2024 - Sep 20, 2024Saturday - Friday
Sep 21, 2024 - Oct 04, 2024Saturday - Friday
Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 11, 2024Saturday - Friday
Oct 12, 2024 - Oct 25, 2024Saturday - Friday
Nov 02, 2024 - Nov 15, 2024Saturday - Friday
Nov 16, 2024 - Nov 29, 2024Saturday - Friday
Nov 23, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024Saturday - Friday
Nov 30, 2024 - Dec 13, 2024Saturday - Friday
Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 27, 2024Book 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.