On this wonderful 12 day group tour of Japan you’ll not only take in the highlights of Tokyo and Kyoto, but you’ll also have the opportunity to visit historic Hiroshima, Miyajima Island with its iconic Torii Gate and the towering Himeji Castle. What’s more, you’ll sample Japanese hospitality at a ryokan where you can bathe in natural hot springs.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Tokyo
Saturday. Upon arrival to Tokyo you will be met at either Narita or Haneda International Airport by your guide. Travel by train into the heart of the city and check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure.
We recommend arriving before 3pm on this day, as there will be a Welcome Meeting at 6pm, where you will meet your guide and the rest of the group.
Overnight: Tokyo
Toyko - Senjoji Temple District, Harajuki & Shibuya
Today we explore the capital. First stop is Asakusa which is home to Sensoji, Tokyo's first temple which was built in the 7th century. Around the temple, in the lively Sensoji District, there are lots of interesting souvenir and craft stalls for us explore. We head to Harajuku in the afternoon, which is where the young and fashionable Tokyoites hangout, with its trendy shops and cafes. Here we’ll visit the important Meiji Shrine where the emperor Meiji and his wife are enshrined.
Our final stop of today is Shibuya Crossing, regarded as one of the busiest intersections in the world. The famed intersection has no less than 7 pedestrian crossings and when the lights turn red at this busy junction, they all turn red at the same time in every direction. Traffic stops completely and pedestrians surge into the intersection from all sides. Known as 'the scramble' it’s an amazing spectacle which we'll watch from the second floor of Starbucks, located directly opposite.
This evening offers free time, though if travelling during May or September you might like spend the evening watching a Sumo tournament (bookings must be made in advance). See our Trip Notes for more information.
Overnight: Tokyo
Kamakura - Big Buddha
Tokyo - Kamakura - Tokyo. Today we visit Kamakura, which is just an hour from Tokyo by train. Kamakura was Japan’s first feudal capital and is renowned for its beautiful Zen temples and pristine coastline. We’ll visit the iconic bronze Big Buddha and the Hokokuji Zen Temple which has a picturesque bamboo garden where you can drink tea before walking the cobbled shopping district - adorned with lovely locally made items, before returning to Japan’s bustling capital for the night.
Overnight: Tokyo
Tokyo National Museum & time to explore
Today offers a guided tour of the Tokyo National Museum, housing a number of exhibitions from galleries to Japanese archeology. The Tokyo National Museum is located in Ueno Park, a large public park within central Tokyo and famous for a number of museums held within it's grounds. The remainder of the day offers free time to independently explore.
Overnight: Tokyo
Mt Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi
Tokyo - Lake Kawaguchi. This morning we travel by highway to Lake Kawaguchi, located in the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Our base is Lake Kawaguchi which boasts breathtaking scenery and unparalleled views of a snow-capped Mt Fuji most of the year. Whilst in the area we'll travel on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway and visit the observatory. For tours staying at Lake Kawaguchi between 15 Apr – 28 May each year we’ll visit the Springtime Fuji Shibazakura (Phlox Moss) Festival, held at Motosu Lake, where the landscape is covered in a vibrant, hot pink moss with Fuji as the backdrop. Tonight, we stay in a Japanese style inn. At the ryokan, we'll be served dinner and you can take a relaxing dip in the natural hot spring baths.
Overnight: Lake Kawaguchi | Dinner
Kyoto - 1000 statues of Kannon & the Geisha District
Lake Kawaguchi – Kyoto. The area has some great hiking trails and early this morning you might like to opt for a hike along the foreshores of the lake. Travel by bus to Mishima, then bullet train to Kyoto - Japan’s ancient and cultural capital.
As one of the most culturally rich cities in Asia, Kyoto is home to an abundance of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Here, we enjoy a guided tour of Sanjusagen-do Temple famous for its statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The one thousand life-size statues of Kannon are made of Japanese cypress clad in gold leaf. They stand in 10 rows of 50, each hand crafted and slightly different from the next. Late this afternoon we head to Gion, for a walking tour of this famous Geisha District. After, you may wish to watch a cultural performance at Gion Corner Theatre where you'll have the opportunity to watch a Maiko (apprentice Geisha) performing.
Overnight: Kyoto | Breakfast
Kyoto - Nijo Castle, Golden Pavilion & free time
This morning we offer a guided tour of Nijo Castle, one of the city’s most impressive UNESCO sites. Built by the first Tokugawa shogun in 1603, the exquisite Nijo Castle is a wonderful example of Momoyama architecture. After, we visit Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) a stunning Zen Buddhist temple, part of the Historic Monuments of the Ancient Kyoto World Heritage Site. The top two floors of the monument are completely covered in gold leaf. Set upon a small lake with landscaped gardens the large completely gilt structure is as impressive, as it is beautiful. Kinkakuji Temple continues to be one of Japan's most visited temples.
This afternoon offers free time for you to relax or to further discover the many sights of Kyoto your own way. Consider visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its winding path lined by thousands of bright red torii gates. Just a short train ride away from the main Kyoto Station, this must-see sight is free to visit and is open 24 hours a day. You might also wish to hire a Kimono and walk the streets as many Japanese do or take part in a cooking lesson.
Overnight: Kyoto | Breakfast
Himeji Castle & Hiroshima
Kyoto - Himeji - Hiroshima. We travel by bullet train to Hiroshima today, stopping en route at Himeji to visit the UNESCO Listed Himeji Castle, nicknamed the White Egret due to its colour and elegant shape. Himeji is Japan’s best preserved and largest castle, known for its maze-like defences. After taking in the panoramic views from the top of its 6 story watch tower there is time to stroll the local Saturday market which often takes place here, before taking the bullet train to Hiroshima. The later part of this afternoon and evening offers free time.
Tonight, if you like baseball consider booking tickets to watch the Carp play. The Carp, Hiroshima’s beloved professional baseball players, play games at home between May - Oct at Mazda Stadium.
Overnight: Hiroshima | Breakfast
Miyajima Island & Red Torii Gate
Located off the coast of Hiroshima is Miyajima Island, one of Japan's most picturesque destinations. Today we take the ferry out to the island and see the dramatic red 'floating' Torii Gate at the revered Itsukushima-jinja Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site. The iconic gate seems to float on the water but at low tide can reached by foot. It stands 16 metres high and is made from camphor wood. As we explore the island we'll see further Shinto shrines, towering pagodas and pavilions before soaking up the incredible views of the Seto Inland Sea, dozens of nearby islands and Hiroshima city from our cable car ride to the top of Mount Misen, the highest point of the island. Free time is offered before we return to Hiroshima for the night. Tonight, we'll make a reservation for Okonomiyaki - a mix between a savoury pancake and omelette, a local speciality of Hiroshima. Okonomiyaki is always a fun night, its inexpensive and is washed down perfectly with a Asahi beer.
Overnight: Hiroshima | Breakfast
Hiroshima Peace Park, Museum & Memorials
Hiroshima - Kyoto. Hiroshima is of course infamous for being the first site where one of two atomic bombs were dropped on Japan at the end World War II. This morning we visit Peace Park and Peace Park Museum which are a poignant reminder of Hiroshima’s tragic past. We’ll see the iconic A-Bomb Dome, one of the very few buildings left standing after the blast and visit the Children's Peace Monument a memorial to the children killed, where schools from around the world donate paper origami cranes, signifying hope and peace.
This afternoon we take the bullet train to Kyoto. On the train we bid farewell to travellers on our 13 day tour who will continue with your guide to Takayama.
Overnight: Kyoto | Breakfast
Free time in Kyoto
A free day to spend a leisure in Kyoto. Independently exploring this enchanting city you'll find sacred shrines tucked in among shopping arcades, time‐honoured teahouses nestling among modern businesses and geisha in the historic Gion District. Alternatively, consider a day trip to Nara which has a myriad of shrines and temples, all set against the backdrop of the low lying mountains in the midst of Nara Park.
Overnight: Kyoto | Breakfast
Kyoto to Osaka
Wednesday. Kyoto - Osaka. Your Japan adventure comes to an end today. Take the train (un-escorted) from Kyoto Station to Osaka Airport for your onward flight. Please ensure you book your departing flight after 10am.
Prefer to end your tour in Tokyo? On day 12 you can opt to travel by train from Kyoto to Tokyo, where you will spend the night. On day 13 (Thursday) catch the train to Tokyo Airport (breakfast excluded on day 13).
For information about visas, top travel tips and much more, take a look through our travel guide.
Breakfast
Short on time... Consider our 8 day tour
Best of Japan.
Discover the best of Japan in 8 captivating days. Travelling from the modern metropolis of Tokyo to enchanting Kyoto, with its age-old temples, shrines and colourful Geisha District. See the bronze Buddha and picturesque bamboo forest at Kamakura, the breathtaking beauty of Mt Fuji at Hakone Izu National Park en route.
Prices & Dates
All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room.
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Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Yaesu Terminal Hotel, Tokyo
Enjoying an enviable location on a cherry-blossom lined street in the centre of Tokyo, Yaesu Terminal Hotel is just a short jaunt away from the city’s main railroad station giving travellers easy access to locations across the city. A comfortable 3-star hotel with a natural theme, a permanent art exhibit in the hotel lobby and an in-house restaurant serving freshly prepared local cuisine; it is a soothing place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. Hotel guests can make use of the free Wi-Fi, benefit from complimentary bathrobes and slippers and enjoy entertainment on a flat-screen TV.
Yamagishi Ryokan, Lake Kawaguchi
With stunning views over Lake Kawaguchi, which is located just one minute away, the Yamagishi Ryokan is an excellent base for exploring the area around the lake. Rooms are designed according to traditional Japanese styles with low furniture and lots of natural light. Breakfast and dinner are both included with the room and are served in the hotel's dining room. After dinner, guests can take a dip in one of the hotel's baths or relax with a coffee in the lounge. The hotel is located just an 8 minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station.
Hotel Mifujien, Lake Kawaguchi
This Japanese-style hotel boasts stunning views over Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji from each of its guestrooms. Offering traditional low furniture and modern amenities, each room is also equipped with air conditioning and a TV. The views can be enjoyed from the hotel’s lobby, tea lounge and the Japanese restaurant, which uses local ingredients and offers a feast of traditional dishes. On the 7th floor you’ll find both indoor and outdoor hot spring baths with views of Mt. Fuji, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day.
Hotel Elcient Kyoto, Kyoto
Boasting a fantastic location in the heart of Kyoto, Hotel Elcient Kyoto is within walking distance of top attractions such as Kyoto Tower and the picturesque Shosei-en Garden. Guestrooms are compact and simply furnished, complete with modern amenities such as air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. Enjoy more than 30 different dishes at the Western and Japanese buffet-style restaurant, with light lunches and dinner also available. On the second floor you’ll find a large public bath and sauna, offering the perfect spot to relax after some sightseeing.
Dormy Inn Premium Kyoto, Kyoto
Located just a short walk from Kyoto Station and the lofty Kyoto Tower, you really cannot get more central than this! Combining convenience with comfort, this contemporary hotel boasts modern guest rooms with flat screen televisions, complimentary WiFi, refrigerators and ensuite bathrooms. Buffet breakfast is available, with a choice of local and western dishes on offer. The hotel is surrounded by a wide choice of shops and restaurants, and there are plenty of cultural landmarks just a short stroll away. After a day of sightseeing guests can relax with a soak in the hotel’s natural hot spring baths or opt for a sauna and massage.
Sanco Inn Kyoto Hachijoguchi Shikinoyu, Kyoto
Located just minutes away from Kyoto Station, the Sanco Inn provides 24-hour reception, with buffet breakfast available and complimentary WiFi. Each room is equipped with a desk, private bathroom, air conditioning, safety deposit box and flat-screen TV with satellite channels. With daily housekeeping, on-site vending machines, and luggage storage available, Sanco Inn will make for a convenient and comfortable stay in Kyoto.
Hokke Club, Hiroshima
Situated within walking distance of the Atomic Bomb Dome and Hiroshima Castle, Hokke Club Hotel boasts an excellent location. Guests can start their day with the European and Japanese-style breakfast buffet in the onsite restaurant, which is also open for lunch. Its modern guestrooms are well-equipped, with an electric kettle, fridge and air conditioning, alongside free WiFi access so you can stay connected with your friends and family back home. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or enjoy a dip in the hot communal baths, a hotel feature that’s unique to Japanese culture.
Candeo Hotel, Hiroshima
Recently opened in 2018, this modern hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the city just footsteps from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Hiroshima Museum of Arts. Guestrooms are spacious and brightly lit, benefiting from free WiFi and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests can take advantage of the breakfast buffet, which offers 60 dishes ranging from continental to Japanese cuisine. However, this hotel’s real highlight is its SkySpa, which features a sauna, indoor and outdoor baths set on the rooftop.
Daiwa Roynet, Hiroshima
The Daiwa Roynet is a great launching pad for exploring Hiroshima with a prime location and reliable service. The smart guestrooms feature free WiFi access and all the mod-cons needed for a comfortable stay. Dine on Japanese dishes at the hotel's restaurant. Conveniently located in Hiroshima's main commercial district, just a 1-minute walk from Chudenmae Tram Station and a 10-minute walk from the Peace Memorial Museum.
Both our guides,Yumi & Masashi were wonderful,,very well organised,efficient & helpful.
During the whole tour we had no major issues,,only a couple of minor ones sometimes with English/ language issues,,& being able to hear advice/instructions when in a noisy area,,,but no problem,as we just asked other tour members what was said.
As our travel agent had recommended this tour,,We were not quite sure what to expect ,regarding transport & areas visited.However on reflection,we did enjoy all aspects of the tour. All well managed etc. from being met at the airport ,,to arranging our final bus ticket to the airport for our flight home. Putting up with the heat & very crowded Japan,was all part of the touring experience!
Was initially a little confusing that there were several tours all included in the one tour group.
Perhaps maybe a little disappointed that we never really saw any lovely scenery ,except around Mt Fuji area,& from the bullet trains.
Great that the Tokyo & Kyoto hotels were close to the transport hubs.
The Yaesu hotel rooms were very small. The Lake Kawaguchi hotel was very very dated,& whilst the room was cleanish,there were food/drink stains on the chairs & walls. Happy with large size of room & bed etc.
Thanks for everything. ”
i thought the itinerry w3as very good and i have nothing but praise for Masa, our tour guide
he was outstanding
hetook great care of us and showed empathy
his explanations were always detailed and interesting
his efficiency was top notch”
We enjoyed our guide Kaori so much. She was very knowledgeable about all the places we toured, was always on time and was very friendly. At times all the transportation of buses, trains and subways was very hard to handle at times. During certain times of the day there were very crowded. We felt like a lot of time was used with the transportation and other tours might have been included. ”
Our Land of the Samurai tour in Japan was one of the best holidays we have ever had. In just 10 adventure packed days we got a real sense of this wonderful country. From start to finish the organisation was spot on. We were met at the airport by Louis who accompanied us to our first hotel and provided our travel cards and some excellent initial tips by way of introduction to Japan. The following day we met our main tour guide Masa who must be given full credit for the success of our tour. He was knowledgeable, considerate and well organised. He is a true asset to the company. ”
Masa our guide was excellent. Overall the tour was very good, would have liked more free time in Tokyo and Hiroshima but overall was all good. The hotel accommodation was good apart from Tokyo, we were OK with the room being small but the mattresses were old and very uncomfortable and the cleaning staff were not considerate of our belongings, my T-shirt was ruined by bleach when I left it to dry.
We had a few people in our group who were slow and this did impact on our free time, particularly the lady who used a wheelchair for part of the journey and we were often waiting for them often. Masa our tour guide was informative, always answered our questions, looked after us really well. Couldn't have asked for a better guide.”
Great way to see the major sights & experience traditional food & culture.
Good balance of historical, traditional and contemporary sights or experiences. OTG managed the logistics of getting around cities and countries which made this effortless for us. Guide was incredibly helpful and always went that extra mile for the group. Size of group was good and ensured you never missed anything”
Yuki was amazing, she is well informed, considerate and flexible. Showed empathy and understanding. Public transport is overcrowded, would prefer a private vehicle.”
The views, meals, service and onsen at the Ryokan were excellent. Both guides were absolutely wonderful. This was my first experience of an overseas tour and I have loved it. The only thing I would change and its purely a personal choice is that I would pay the single supplement. I can't speak highly enough of Yuki and Ako. They were both professional, organised and just fun to hangout with.”
Very interesting time in Japan - people were great and a very experienced guides made it very easy and enjoyable.”
I enjoyed the tour very much, the pace of the tour was just right with a mix of free time and guided sights. We were a bit early to see the Autumn colours which was unfortunate as it was one of the things we most wanted to see. Yuki, our guide was lovely, helpful, informative and looked after us all, giving helpful tips and suggestions for the time we spent on our own. She was well prepared every day with a sheet detailing the days activities. The weather on the second week was poor, so we didn't seen some of the sights at their best which was a great shame but it did not detract from the overall pleasure of the trip.”
At a Glance
Extra Tour Info
i thought the itinerry w3as very good and i have nothing but praise for Masa, our tour guide
he was outstanding
hetook great care of us and showed empathy
his explanations were always detailed and interesting
his efficiency was top notch”
