On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.
This itinerary will be conducted at a relaxed pace. You will typically spend several nights at one location which means less time spent packing and unpacking, and more sightseeing. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and handling your own luggage.
✓ Add return international airfares from only $1099 per person
✓ Incredible sightseeing including breathtaking Mount Fuji, Tokyo's traditional heart and ultra-modern icons, 16th-century Osaka Castle and Kyoto's ancient geisha districts
✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel
✓ 9 nights accommodation in central 4-star accommodation
✓ Daily breakfast & 1 dinner
✓ Private guided tours in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto
✓ Ride the exhilarating shinkansen bullet train
✓ 2-day Hakone Freepass including unlimited travel throughout the Hakone region
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Upon arrival into Tokyo, please make your own way to the starting point hotel. Take the evening to relax after your flight..
The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Haneda International Airport (HND) to Tokyo Central is by train or by monorail. The airport is also serviced by many 'Limousine Bus' services which offer shared shuttle bus service from around ¥1300 per person.
The best way to travel from Narita International Airport (NRT) to Tokyo Central is by the Narita Airport Express. The journey to most Tokyo stations takes approximately 1hr and the ticket costs ¥4070. The airport is also serviced by many 'Limousine Bus' services which offer shared shuttle buses from around ¥1300 per person.
Hotel Check-in:
Travellers will be arriving at various times throughout the day. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Our exploration of Tokyo begins with a visit to Asakusa Sensoji Temple – the oldest temple in Tokyo – famous for its huge hanging lantern at the Kaminarimon Gate (Thunder Gate). Then, we’ll explore the outer grounds of the Imperial Palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Previously home to samurai warriors, it’s a sprawling complex with beautiful 17th century parks in the heart of the city. Built on the site of the old Edo Castle, it is surrounded by a large park, moats and massive stone walls. Come cherry blossom season, it is blanketed in a sea of pink blooms.
There is arguably no better place in Tokyo to have a fresh sushi breakfast or lunch than at the Tsukiji Outer Market. At the market, you can find processed and fresh seafood, along with culinary-related items such as specialty knives.
No trip to Tokyo is complete with a visit to the famous Shibuya Crossing – the famed icon of the district alongside the Hachiko statue.
Today is a full free day in Tokyo. There is no end to the spectacular sightseeing and activities available to you, as Tokyo truly has something for everyone. Take as much time as you like to relax at your leisure, explore the city, shop for souvenirs and eat the delectable cuisine. Be sure to ask your guide for recommendations on more must-see spots around the city.
Master the delicate art of authentic Japanese sushi making and learn everything there is to know about dashi, miso, mirin and sake. Impress friends with your ability to prepare traditional rice and toppings, creating a multitude of colourful and delicious sushi, including Rolled Egg, Sushi Rice, Inari Sushi, Tuna Roll, Cucumber Roll, California Roll, Nigiri Sushi and Miso Soup.
After being welcomed by the courteous staff and enjoying a cup of traditional Japanese green tea, you will receive a short introduction to the importance of quality ingredients in Japanese cuisine. Learn about the subtle flavours of dashi (Japanese soup stock) and how to pick the best seasonings. (soy sauce, sake, miso etc.)
After creating a variety of nigiri, inari and hosomaki, it is time to eat and enjoy. This cooking class will not only provide you with an unforgettable memory, but also offers a great opportunity to learn a new skill, that you can bring home and share with your family and friends.
**Note: It is possible to arrange for vegetarian, halal or all sorts of dietary requirements**
Meeting Point: Cooking Lesson Venue at 1:30pm
Drop off: Cooking Lesson Venue at 4:30pm
Tonight, enjoy your experience of an Izakaya - a typical Japanese casual pub where Japanese people go for 'after work drinks'. You will be picked up from your hotel and will head to a local Izakaya to experience the lifestyle of a local while enjoying different types of alcohol and traditional Japanese 'pub' food.
Start time approx: 7:00pm
After breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on your journey independently to Hakone using a 2-day Hakone Freepass.
Explore the national park by taking a sequence of cars and mountain railways. Experience the Hakone ropeway as it ascends Mt. Owakudani, offering breathtaking views of volcanic hot springs and rivers emitting sulphurous fumes. At the summit, savour a renowned hard boiled egg cooked in the spring's waters, believed to add seven years to your life according to local legend.
Later, cruise Ashinoko Lake on a splendid replica pirate ship, a result of a volcanic eruption over three millennia ago. Keep an eye out for a potential sighting of Mt. Fuji, although it typically requires a clear day to reveal its full splendour.
In the evening, unwind in a traditional Japanese onsen hotel. Enjoy a Japanese Kaiseki-style dinner and indulge in the serene mineral-rich onsen hot spring, a time-honoured Japanese cultural practice that promotes relaxation.
This morning, travel independently to the nearest train station and use your 2-day Hakone Freepass to Odawara to board a bullet train to Osaka. After a speedy ride on a high-speed bullet train, you'll find yourself in Osaka. The bullet train is not only a convenient mode of transportation but also an exciting part of your journey. As you disembark in Osaka, you'll step into a city known for its blend of tradition and modernity, offering a unique urban experience. The transition from the train's serene countryside views to Osaka's vibrant cityscape adds an interesting dimension to your trip.
Once you arrive, use public transportation to reach your Osaka hotel.
Start your day with a guided visit to Osaka Castle via public transport (entrance fees and transportation at own expense), a historic landmark symbolising Osaka.
After exploring the castle, head to Umeda Sky Building's observatory for panoramic views. You'll experience both stunning scenery and the strong winds at 170 metres above ground, offering vistas reaching Awaji Island. Explore Takimi-Koji gourmet street in the building's basement, featuring 1920s Osaka ambiance, before concluding your day.
After breakfast at your hotel and a leisurely morning in Osaka, make your way to Kyoto and check in to your hotel on your own. This afternoon, you might like to join an optional tour. Alternatively, join one of the free walking tours on offer in Kyoto.
Learn the secrets of Sado, the Japanese tea ceremony, from a qualified tea instructor.
Tea Ceremony
The Japanese tea ceremony (known as sado or chado in Japanese) is a Japanese tradition that has become an art form.
More than just about preparing and drinking tea, it is a formal way for a guest to enjoy a host's hospitality, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Itinerary
Today enjoy your tea ceremony experience in the heart of Kyoto. Make your own way to the venue and enjoy this unique traditional Japanese experience.
The Japanese tea ceremony is a traditional ritual influenced by the principles of Zen Buddhism in which powdered green tea, or matcha, is prepared and served by a host in a quiet setting.
Enjoy tasting traditional Japanese confectionary with your green tea.
Start time: approx 3:00pm.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Continue your Kyoto exploration with a captivating full-day guided tour (entrance fees and transportation at your own expense). Begin by embarking on a leisurely walk through Miyagawa-cho, one of Kyoto's cherished 'Hanamachi' or geisha districts. From there, proceed to Hanamikoji Street, the bustling heart of the Gion district. As you meander along, be enchanted by the fragrant ambience emanating from the traditional restaurants and 'Ochayas,' the quintessential Japanese tea rooms. With a touch of luck, you may even chance upon a Geisha or a Maiko (apprentice Geisha) gracing the historic streets.
Your journey then leads you to Kennin-ji temple, a venerable Zen temple established in 1202 and revered as Kyoto's oldest. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the 'Karesansui,' a meticulously crafted Japanese rock garden, and admire the renowned 'Fujin-Raijin-zu' artwork. This masterpiece, created by the celebrated artist Soutatu Tawaraya, portrays the Gods of Wind and Thunder and is esteemed as a national treasure.
Conclude your Gion tour at the revered Yasaka Shrine, a sacred Shinto shrine with a legacy spanning over 1350 years. Nestled at the nexus of the Geisha District of Gion and the picturesque Higashiyama Temple District, this shrine also serves as the site of the renowned Gion Festival, enriching your Kyoto experience with historical and cultural depth.
Enjoy a day at leisure in Kyoto today. To enhance your journey, you may wish to join one of our optional tours or join a free walking tour.
Enjoy your final morning in Kyoto before transferring independently to Osaka International Airport for your onward flight.
The best way to get from Kyoto to Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX) is to train which takes 1h 20m and costs ¥2700 - ¥4000. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which costs ¥2100 - ¥2900 and takes 1h 28m.
We hope you have enjoyed your adventure through Japan!
This package is a flight add-on package
This package has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city. Select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and international flights will be added to your booking.
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Fitness Requirement
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorized as a ”2”
Leisurely Paced Tour: This itinerary will be conducted at a relaxed pace. You will typically spend several nights at one location which means less time spent packing and unpacking, and more sightseeing. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and handling your own luggage.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Twin Share Bedding Configuration
At any time, bedding configuration is subject to confirmation by the hotel and based on availability. While you have the option to select either twin or double bedding at time of booking, our recommendation when travelling to Japan is to choose twin bedding, as the rooms are often bigger than those that have a double bed. If insisting on double bedding, please note that the rooms will be smaller and more narrow. As a general expectation, we cannot always guarantee bedding at all hotel stays.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,538.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this deal that you will receive a single room, which is smaller in size than a twin/double room. Unfortunately this is typical for Japan, as the cost to solely occupy a double/twin size room is incredibly high. We appreciate your understanding.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Click HERE for more information on weather in Japan.
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