This tour features a combination of escorted and independent travel. Part of your journey will be enjoyed as a group experience, led by expert tour leaders or local guides. The remainder is self-guided—whether by rail, cruise, or overland—allowing you the freedom to travel between destinations independently and explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
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.
✓ 11 nights in 3-star accommodation
✓ Experience a sacred overnight stay in a 1000-year old buddhist monastery
✓ 2 nights in traditional Japanese onsen accommodation
✓ Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 3 dinners
✓ Dedicated tour leader from Day 1 to 11
✓ Independent touring with local guides from Day 11 to 15
✓ Dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
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 Japan!
On arrival, please make your own way from the airport to your hotel.
Your journey through this magical land of contrasts begins in Tokyo, a bustling metropolis known for its unique blend of tradition and modernity. As Japan’s capital, Tokyo offers an endless array of culinary delights. Indulge in its renowned street food such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), tempura (battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables), or Tokyo-style ramen (rich and flavorful noodle soup). Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods and savour the diverse food culture that makes Tokyo a paradise for food enthusiasts.
With friendly locals, it’s the perfect welcome to this lovely country.
Arrival & Check-in information
The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Haneda International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) is to book airport transfers using your Traveller Hub (booked 7+ days in advance). Alternatively, both airports have reliable public transport services into central Tokyo as well as the Limousine Bus which services many hotels in the central Tokyo area. For more information or assistance with these services, please check with the Passenger Information Desk after leaving the Baggage Claim area.
Special information
There are no scheduled activities today. If arriving prior to check-in time, which is usually from 2-3 pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. Use this time to familiarise yourself with the hotel and rest before touring commences tomorrow.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Please meet in the hotel lobby for your welcome meeting this morning to discuss tour logistics and to give you a chance to meet your fellow travellers. A Welcome Letter with the meeting time will be provided upon arrival
Following the meeting, you will begin your full-day coach tour of Japan's ultramodern capital - Tokyo!
Our exploration of Tokyo begins with a visit to Asakusa Sensoji temple–the oldest temple in Tokyo–famous for its huge lantern hung at the Kaminarimon gate (Thunder Gate).
We’ll drive-by 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.
Next, we'll venture into the vibrant neighbourhood of Shibuya, allowing you some time to explore at your leisure and discover a delightful local eatery for lunch (at your own expense). Nearby, we will visit the Meiji Jingu Shrine. Surrounded by green trees it’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peaceful time exploring before retiring to our hotel for an evening at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
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 tour leader for recommendations on more must-see spots around the city.
Meeting Point:
Approx Start Time: 10:00
Approx Finish Time: 11:30
Duration: Approx 1.5 hrs
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.
Escorted by your tour leader, take a short Shinkansen ride to Atami. Atami is a famous resort town surrounded by mountains and the sea. You'll enjoy a walking tour around one of the main streets along with sweet and craft shops and you will enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant (included in the cost).
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Start time approx: 9:00am
Finish time approx: 4:30pm
Duration: 7.5 hrs
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
Half Day Atami Tour cannot be booked in conjunction with Calligraphy Class.
After breakfast today we depart Tokyo and travel to Hakone. Away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Hakone offers tranquillity among stunning natural scenery.
Upon arrival at Hakone, enjoy a boat trip across the serene Ashinoko Lake, followed by taking a cable car up the mountains to the sulphur vents of Owakudani. You’ll have spectacular views, and on a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji in the distance. Here we will enjoy lunch and make our way to the hotel in Hakone.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
After breakfast we’ll travel to Takayama, a charming Edo period town located in the Japanese alps. Upon arrival in Takayama, take a walk with your tour leader who will point out examples of beautiful traditional architecture as you explore the old part of town. During the walk, you will visit a local sake brewery and try different kinds of sake. You also learn how the town’s isolated location caused it to develop a unique culinary scene. The area is particularly famous for Hida beef, which comes from a black-haired Japanese cattle breed that has been raised in the Gifu Prefecture for at least 14 months. Stop off on your tour to sample delicious Hida beef sushi or skewers (own expense).
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Before leaving Takayama this morning after breakfast we'll visit the Hida Folk Village, also known as Hida no Sato, which serves as an open-air museum that showcases over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region. Creating a charming village-like ambiance, the museum encompasses various structures including a former village leader's residence, logging huts, storage buildings, and numerous gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
The term "gassho-zukuri" translates to "hands folded in prayer," aptly describing the steep thatched roofs resembling hands joined in prayer. These distinctive farmhouses were transported from nearby Shirakawago, a location renowned for its gassho-zukuri houses, which contributed to the region's recognition as a World Heritage site.
Today's lunch will be at highway service stop, but in Japan, these stops are renowned for offering high-quality food, and then we continue to travel to Kyoto where the afternoon is at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
We’ll see the sights of ancient Kyoto this morning after breakfast, starting with Kyoto’s famed Fushimi Inari Shrine – known throughout the world as the ‘Path of the Red Gates.’ Take time to appreciate the quieter corners of the shrine, and if you’re feeling fit, a walk to the halfway point provides stunning city views.
We’ll continue onto some of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, like Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion). This is a Zen temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold, set within a beautiful classical Zen garden.
This afternoon, you have free time to explore the city on your own.
Inspiring Highlights
Meeting Point:
Approx Start Time: 14:00
Approx Finish Time: 15:00
Duration: Approx 1 hr
Also called Chado, "the way of tea" is the traditional and ceremonial preparation and presentation of Matcha. You will be shown how to prepare the tea and be able to experience preparing it as well. Your guide will be able to provide you with directions to the venue.
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
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.
Tonight, enjoy your experience of an Izakaya - a typical Japanese casual pub where Japanese go for a drink after work. You will be picked up from your tour leader at your hotel and will head to a local Izakaya to try the lifestyle of a local while enjoying different types of alcoholic beverages and traditional Japanese pub food.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Start time approx: 6:00pm
Finish time approx: 8:00pm
Duration: 2 hrs
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
After breakfast this morning, we spend the day travelling to Hiroshima.
Upon arrival in Hiroshima, visit Miyajima, an island known for its forests and ancient temples. Just offshore, there's a 'floating' torii, which becomes partially submerged at high tide. It marks the entrance to the Itsukushima Shrine, which was first built in the 12th century.
Later, check in your hotel and relax in the evening. You might want to try a local famous dish okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake of egg, cabbage, soba noodles, and meat or seafood.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
This morning after breakfast we'll visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, otherwise known as the Genbaku Dome, or the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and Museum. A shell of a building that was one of very few left standing after the United States bombed Hiroshima in 1945. In Hiroshima today, locals have mixed feelings about the UNESCO World Heritage-listed structure: some see it as a reminder of war, while others consider it a tribute to the lost that ensures we'll never forget the tragic events that took place here.
Today's lunch will be at a highway service stop, but in Japan, these stops are renowned for offering high-quality food, After lunch, we continue our Japan adventure to Osaka. Upon arrival, you have free time to explore Osaka.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
For those of you who would like to experience the Shinkansen bullet train, there is an option to take the train back to Osaka. Please discuss with your tour leader and they can arrange a ticket for you (own expense).
This morning after breakfast we’ll enjoy a coach tour with our tour leader, with our destination being Nara. Enroute to Nara, we will stop at the impressive Todaji Temple, which holds a world record as the largest wooden building in the world, and houses one of Japan’s largest buddha statues. You’ll then have some time to stroll Nara Park amongst the wild roaming holy deers, where you’ll then have some time to enjoy lunch (at your own expense).
We’ll also enjoy a walking tour of the Dōtonbori area. One of Osaka's most popular tourist destinations, this street runs parallel to the Dōtonbori canal and is a hugely popular destination for shopping, street food, bars and entertainment. At night the streets here are illuminated by hundreds of colourful neon lights and mechanised signs, including the famous running Glico Man sign and the Kani Doraku crab sign.
Inspiring Highlights
Celebrate the end of your Japan adventure with a casual meal at Izakaya, followed by a visit to a karaoke bar for that quintessential Japanese experience!
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Start time approx: 6:00pm
Finish time approx: 9:00pm
Duration: 3 hrs
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
Please note - the rest of the itinerary is unescorted, with local guides joining you along the way. You will make your way between destinations via public trains and buses (tickets included) and will need to carry your own luggage. You will need to walk up to 10 minutes to your accommodation from the train/bus stations. A detailed step-by-step guide will be delivered to your Osaka hotel.
This morning after breakfast, make your way to Koyasan. An experienced local guide will take you on a 4-hour tour of Koyasan’s must-visit destinations: the Garan temple complex, with its monolithic pagoda; Kongobuji Temple, the head temple of Shingon Buddhism in Japan; and Okunoin, Japan’s largest Buddhist cemetery. Please note that admission fees are not included in your tour price.
Tonight, enjoy a unique experience in one of Japan’s most sacred spots – an overnight stay in a traditional temple. Your temple accommodation is over 1000 years old and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will have the opportunity to participate in morning religious services and Goma prayers, meditation and traditional writing techniques. Accommodation includes traditional Japanese style bedding and a delicious dinner.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today after breakfast, depart Koyasan for Hongu, an area known for its hot springs, lush scenery and its deep spiritual energy. The day is at your leisure to explore the beautiful riverside town.
Tonight, stay in a traditional onsen ryokan. Why not take a soak in the onsen to relax after your journey? Your onsen accommodation is located on the banks of the Yomura River and offers you traditional Japanese accommodation with its own onsen baths. Enjoy a delicious dinner tonight.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
The Kumano Sanzan shrines have been a spiritual destination for pilgrims for over 1000 years. Today, join a day tour that makes a circuit of all three, beginning with Kumano Hongu Taisha, then Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and lastly Kumano Nachi Taisha, which is also the site of Japan’s highest waterfall.
Afterwards, make your way to your waterfront onsen accommodation in Katsuura. A sumptuous Kaiseki dinner filled with local produce and seafood is included.
Please note that there is no guide on the bus, explanations are in both Japanese and English in Nakahechi Route area.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
After breakfast, travel back to Osaka by train at your own pace. On arrival in Osaka, check in to your hotel and enjoy a day at leisure to do some last minute shopping and exploring.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today marks the end of your spectacular journey through Japan.
At the appropriate time please make your own way to the airport for your flight home or embark on your own independent onward journey.
Check-out and Departure Information
Travellers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out is from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or alternatively please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost.
The easiest and most convenient way to travel from your hotel to Osaka (Itami) International Airport (ITM) or Kansai International Airport (KIX) is to book airport transfers using your Traveller Hub (booked 7+ days in advance). Alternatively both airports have reliable public transport services from central Osaka as well as the Limousine Bus which services many hotels in the central Osaka area. For more information or assistance with these services, please speak with your hotel reception or tour leader.
Special information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
✓ 11 nights in 3-star accommodation
✓ Experience a sacred overnight stay in a 1000-year old buddhist monastery
✓ 2 nights in traditional Japanese onsen accommodation
✓ Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 3 dinners
✓ Dedicated tour leader from Day 1 to 11
✓ Independent touring with local guides from Day 11 to 15
✓ Dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
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.
Please note that transportation to and from each optional tour is not included in the price. You will be required to make your own way to the starting point of the optional tour, as well as back to your hotel. Your tour leader can provide you with the direction and guidance needed to make your way.
Pre/post accommodation
Not available
Upgrades
Not available
Bedding Configuration
You will have the option to choose single, twin or double:
Single Travellers
Single supplement is $1,762.00 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.
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 the 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.
Triple Share
Not available
Child Policy
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.
Payment Information
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product.
Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Please review our terms and conditions here: Terms And Conditions - Inspiring Vacations
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
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