YOUTH TOUR (FOR AGES 18 - 45): On this 6-day escorted group tour from Osaka, take in the best of the Japanese city and head south, to visit Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. Take in impressive Osaka Castle and enjoy a day trip to Nara to meet the friendly deer that the city is known for. Spend a night at a traditional temple in Koyasan, visit Hiroshima's sobering Peace Park and Atomic Dome, and spend a day exploring the shrines, hiking trails and Torii gate of Miyajima.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Osaka
Welcome to Osaka. On arrival, make your own way to our accommodation and check in, then meet the group in the early evening for our first activity. Get ready to explore the famous Dotonbori area, known for its dynamic food scene, bustling crowds, bright lights, and vibrant colours, earning it the nickname "Japan's kitchen." End the evening with drinks and karaoke - an iconic way to enjoy a night out in Japan and get to know the rest of the group.
Overnight: Osaka | Dinner
Osaka at Leisure & Osaka Castle
After recuperating from the previous night's festivities, take some free time to explore Osaka at your leisure. You can visit the fashionable AmericaTown, wander through the Shinsaibashi Shopping District, unwind at Spa World, or explore the electronics haven of Den-Den Town. In the evening, the group will head to Osaka Castle, a remarkable landmark situated at the heart of the city and surrounded by lush gardens. We'll have the opportunity to watch the sunset from here before going to Shinsekai, a delightful counterpart to Dotonbori, for dinner.
Overnight: Osaka | Breakfast
Nara & Koyasan Temple Stay
Osaka - Nara - Osaka - Koyasan. We have an early start today as our tour takes us on a 45-minute train ride out of the city to the picturesque town of Nara. Nara is famous for its harmonious relationship with deer and its historical significance as the former capital of ancient Japan. Spend time exploring the tranquil park and magnificent temples.
We then head back to Osaka to collect our bags, and embark on our journey to Koyasan. After a 90-minute trip, including cable cars and a bus ride, we'll reach our accommodation nestled deep in the mountains. Koyasan is a charming temple town, and we'll be spending the night at one of the town's traditional temples. We can experience life in a working temple and learn about the monks who dedicate their lives to this sacred area. Explore the many temples and shrines scattered around the area. Dinner will be a special vegetarian meal, made with ingredients sourced by the monks from the local area.
Overnight: Koyasan | Breakfast, Dinner
Osaka to Hiroshima
Koyasan - Osaka - Hiroshima. Awake to the sounds of nature and join the monks for morning chanting prayers, followed by a traditional "temple-style" breakfast prepared by the monks. Relish your morning in this unforgettable destination.
Before lunch, we return to Osaka and then board the bullet train to Hiroshima. After a 90-minute ride, take a streetcar to our accommodation in the city centre. Following some relaxation time, everyone will walk to the poignant Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where our local guide will provide insights into the area's remarkable history. You'll see the Atomic Dome, ring the peace bell, and say a prayer at the eternal flame. This visit promises to leave a lasting impression. Finally, we'll visit the Hiroshima Museum to learn more about the city’s tragic history before getting some food and wrapping up the evening.
Overnight: Hiroshima | Breakfast
Miyajima Island
Hiroshima - Miyajima - Hiroshima. Today, we journey to the scenic Miyajima Island by taking the metro, which is about an hour from Hiroshima. We then board a short ferry ride to the island, renowned for its verdant forests and ancient temples. Upon disembarking, you can take a leisurely walk around the island and pause to admire the iconic Great Torii gate, which stands partially submerged just offshore at high tide. The afternoon is yours to explore the island's peaceful charm at your own pace. Back in Hiroshima, in the evening, the group will gather for a final outing to celebrate the last day of the tour (dinner not included).
Overnight: Hiroshima | Breakfast
Osaka
Hiroshima - Osaka. Our tour concludes today as we wrap up our visit to the beautiful city of Hiroshima. Enjoy one last stroll through the Memorial Park, or consider a sunrise run along the river before boarding the train back to Osaka (included). Your tour ends on arrival back in Osaka.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 6 travellers. 'Dorm' prices are per person and include 5 nights of accommodation shared with another traveller of the same sex. 'Twin/Double' prices apply when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. Single rooms for solo travellers are not available on this tour.
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.
Hotel WBF Namba Motomachi, Osaka
Hotel WBF Namba Motomachi in Osaka offers a modern and comfortable stay in the vibrant Namba district. The hotel features well-designed rooms equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs to ensure a relaxing experience. Guests can start their day with a delicious breakfast buffet featuring Japanese and Western options. Conveniently located within walking distance of Namba Station, Dotonbori, and Shinsaibashi Shopping Street, the hotel provides easy access to Osaka’s top attractions. With its prime location and warm hospitality, Hotel WBF Namba Motomachi makes exploring Osaka effortless and enjoyable.
Hoon-In Temple, Koyasan
Hoon-In Temple in Koyasan offers an authentic shukubo (temple stay) experience, immersing guests in the tranquillity and spirituality of Japan's sacred mountain. The temple provides traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats, futons, and serene garden views, ensuring a peaceful retreat. Guests can savour shojin ryori, the vegetarian Buddhist cuisine, prepared with seasonal ingredients, and participate in morning prayers and meditation alongside resident monks. Located in the heart of Koyasan, the temple offers easy access to significant sites such as Okunoin Cemetery and Danjo Garan.
Hotel Kuretakesou Otemachi, Hiroshima
Hotel Kuretakesou Otemachi in Hiroshima offers a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of the city. The hotel features modern, well-equipped rooms with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning, ensuring a relaxing experience for travellers. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet and unwind in the hotel's public bath, perfect after a day of exploration. Located close to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome, as well as public transport links, the hotel provides an excellent base for discovering Hiroshima’s history and vibrant culture.
At a Glance
