This tour is escorted by local city guides in each location. The local guides will join you during the included activities and local representatives will assist with transfer arrangements. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise, or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 1 out of 5
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. Options include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Small group tour, up to 20 guests only
✓ Incredible sightseeing including Toyosu Wholesale Fish Market and Tsukiji Outer Market, Ebisu Street Food Night Tour, Kawagoe Day Tour, Hakone ropeway and Ashinoko cruise, Mount Fuji 5th Station, Kyoto walking tour, Kimono and Gion traditional experience, Japanese tea ceremony, Nishiki Market
✓ 10 nights in central luxury accommodation
✓ Airport transfers included on the first and last day of tour and station transfers
✓ Breakfast daily, 3 dinners
✓ High speed Shinkansen bullet train journey between Hakone and Kyoto
✓ Partially escorted by professional English-speaking tour guides
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
✓ 7 Day cooling off period. See under Fine Print for more information
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.
Welcome to Tokyo. Begin your magnificent tour through Japan!
You will be met upon arrival in Tokyo and transferred to your joining hotel.
Check in, freshen up and spend the rest of the day exploring this amazing mega city.
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 hotels discretion.
Foodies will be in heaven today. Meet your local guide before starting the day at Toyosu Wholesale Fish Market where you will experience all the action of the tuna auctions. The next stop is the Tsukiji Outer Market, a shopping district adjacent to the enormous former wholesale fish market. This lively area is home to everything food-related – fresh ingredients, street food vendors, kitchen utensils. There’s great sushi and other restaurants around here, too.
Later this afternoon it's time to experience this great food city through the eyes (and stomach’s) of the locals. Head out to 3 individual and authentic izakaya (Japanese-style gastro pubs).
In Ebisu, taste a variety of delicious snacks including yakitori grilled chicken skewers, local draft beer, sashimi, noodles, plum wine, and some local secrets.
Afterwards, pop past a local sweets shop and try a range of Japanese sweets. A great way to finish an exciting and delicious day in Tokyo.
Your local guide will meet you this morning to head out and explore Kawagoe, an area famous for its old merchant buildings. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the warehouse district and feel like you’ve stepped back into old Edo (the former name of Tokyo).
Catch the bus to Kitain Temple. Founded in 830, it is one of the most important temples of the Tendai Shu school of Buddhism in Eastern Japan. When the temple burnt down in 1638, the shogun ordered several buildings of the Edo Castle to be moved to Kitain, to help with the rebuilding of the temple. A highlight of the temple are the 500 Statues of Rakan, each with its own facial expression.
Continue to Honmaru Goten, built in 1848, it is the only surviving building of the former Kawagoe Castle before visiting Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, also known as the matchmaking shrine. This stunning shrine boasts gardens with trees over 600 years old.
Next, walk to Kashiya Yokocho, a little stone-paved street lined with shops selling traditional Japanese sweets. Maybe try the famous red bean paste or sweet potato cakes
**Note: Kitain Temple is closed on December 25 - January 8, February 2 -3, April 2 -5 and August 16. Honmaru Goten is closed on Mondays.**
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.
Meeting Point:
Approx Start Time: 11:00
Approx Finish Time: 13:00
Duration: Approx 2 hrs
Take a closer look at the fascinating world of sushi, extending from the ocean to your plate. Learn the art of sushi-making from a sushi master, then enjoying your creations afterwards.
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
Meeting Point:
Approx Start Time: 10:00
Approx Finish Time: 11:00
Duration: Approx 1 hr
Today, learn the Shodo - the way of writing. Experience the traditional Japanese calligraphy - from the preparation of the ink, to the writing with a brush.
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
Today, travel by road to the Fuji Five Lakes area, (2.5 hours) and ascend to the 5th Station to view Mt Fuji.
Afterwards, continue to Hakone National Park and ascend on the Hakone ropeway up Mt. Owakudani for stunning views of this famous park.
Next, cruise on a replica pirate ship on Lake Ashinoko, formed by a volcanic eruption over 3000 years ago!
Continue to your accommodation in Hakone. This evening, enjoy a sumptuous Japanese Kaiseki-style dinner and treat yourself to a soak in the relaxing mineral waters of an onsen hot spring.
Enjoy a full free day exploring Hakone today. Use the provided IC card to explore the area by public transport.
Consider a visit to the Hakone Open air museum and view 19th and 20th Century sculptures and installations by Japanese and international artists. There is a Picasso Pavilion with around 300 of his works.
Dinner is arranged at your accommodation this evening, so please make sure you get back in good time.
This morning, you will be transferred to Odawara Station for your journey to Kyoto
Board your Shinkansen, travelling at speeds of up to 300 km/hr and covering the 430 km distance to Kyoto in approximately 2 hours from Odawara station. This refined city is home to an array of World Heritage Sites, spectacular gardens and beautiful vistas.
On arrival in Kyoto, meet your assistant and you will be transferred to your hotel in Kyoto by private vehicle.
The rest of your day is free.
An easy trip to make is Fushimi Inari Shrine, only two stops and 5 minutes from Kyoto Station on the JR Nara Line. Fushimi Inari Shrine, which was used in the movie Memoirs of a Geisha, is home to over 10,000 red tori gates. They form a path up the mountain behind the temple, providing wonderful photo opportunities.
Explore the Gion district of Kyoto in the most local way you can; in a traditional Kimono!
Choose from a beautiful selection of over 200 Kimonos and Yukatas, before being styled and fitted by the experts. Observe how different you feel in Japan's most exquisite dress and encounter appreciative and inquisitive locals as you stroll the streets of Gion.
This area has retained a very traditional style so it is the perfect place to try out wearing a Kimono for the first time. The pictures you take on this tour will be unlike any other from your trip and the memory of Gion district will be unforgettable.
Your guide will meet you to take you to visit two beautiful and iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Ginkakuji and Kiyomizudera.
Begin with Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, a Zen temple with a beautiful moss garden and a unique dry sand garden. Then, take a walk on the Philosopher’s Path, a pleasant stone path through the northern part of Kyoto's Higashiyama district, which follows a canal lined by hundreds of cherry trees.
Then partake in a Japanese Tea Ceremony called Sao or Cha-no-yu which has more than 400 years of history. The tea ceremony is conducted in the decorated rooms of a traditional house.
Make a visit to the famous Nishiki Market, a narrow shopping street lined with over 100 shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", this lively retail market specialises in all things food related, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi.
Next you will visit Kodaiji Temple. Established in 1606 and belonging to the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism, the lavish main buildings and richly decorated interiors are surrounded by beautiful Zen gardens. You will also see two tea houses set amidst the gardens and a small bamboo grove.
Finally, move on to Kiyomizudera, to admire the temple’s panoramic views of Kyoto from the 13 metres high veranda.
Today is a full free day to spend in Kyoto. This golden city was once the capital of Japan and sits on the island of Honshu. It's famous for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines and traditional wooden houses. Beautiful Geisha are often found in the Gion district.
Meeting Point:
Approx Start Time: 15:00
Approx Finish Time: 16:00
Duration: Approx 1 hr
Today, experience Ikebana - the Japanese art of flower arrangement that dates back to the 7th century. The tradition believes that by arranging the flowers you give a new life to the flowers - Ike (live) Hana (flower). Head to a master's classroom where you will be able to try hands-on the art of flower arrangement in Japan
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
This evening, enjoy an authentic Izakaya experience—a traditional Japanese casual pub popular for after-work drinks and social gatherings. You will be collected from your hotel and taken to a local Izakaya, where you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture while sampling a variety of drinks and classic Japanese pub-style dishes.
Please note: The following menu is a sample only, and dishes may vary depending on the venue, seasonal availability and daily specials.
Sample dishes may include:
- Assorted appetizers
- Grilled shiitake mushrooms
- Grilled whole onion
- Roasted Japanese beef
- Potato salad
- Japanese-style omelet
- Grilled mackerel
- “Musubi” rice ball with ikura (salmon roe)
- Free-flow beverages, including beer, sake, and soft drinks
Meeting Point: Hotel Reception
Inclusions: English-speaking guide, food and drinks
Approx Start Time: 19:00
Approx Finish Time: 21:00
Today marks the end of your incredible tour through Japan.
Please check out and be ready for your included transfer to the airport at the appropriate time.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognized and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and well-being of our guests are our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated
We are proudly 100% Australian-owned and now operating across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. Our head office is located in Melbourne, Victoria, with offices around the globe to provide you with 24/7 support while you travel. When you book with Inspiring Vacations, you'll receive the support of travel professionals who are committed to the mission of inspiring people everywhere to experience the world.
Cooling off period
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment as part of our cooling-off period. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7-day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation.
We offer two payment options – the choice is yours. Our advertised price is based on our 'Pay in Full' option, which includes a discount by making full payment at the time of booking. Alternatively, choose our 'Installment Payment Plan' option for the flexibility of incremental payments, beginning with a low deposit.
Please click 'Book Now' and proceed to the payment page to select your preferred option under the heading ‘Choose how to pay’. The total due will be reflected accordingly.
Pay In Full Option:
Installment Payment Plan Option:
Booking Process
COVID-19
Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure.
Fitness Requirements
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 categorised 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. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Suggested amount for your guide, 500Y per person per day. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
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.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $3,142.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
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.
Visa & Passport information
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.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including e-tickets and hotel details will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
10-20 people
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:
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.
This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”
By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can assist with flying the airline of your choice to turn your booking into a flight inclusive package.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
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