Japan's Enchanting Journey Culture and Serenity
Embark on a captivating 15-day journey across Japan, starting in the vibrant city of Tokyo and concluding in the scenic beauty of Sapporo. Expect to see Tokyo's bustling Shibuya Crossing and serene Meiji Shrine before whisking off on a bullet train to Hiroshima, where history comes alive at the Peace Memorial Park. Experience the traditional beauty of Matsuyama's temples and the allure of Kyoto with its iconic Golden Pavilion and Geisha culture. Discover natural wonders like the Jigokudani Monkey Park and shoaling islands of Onuma, and soak in the vibrant culture of Sapporo's historic district. This tour seamlessly blends cultural, natural, and historical highlights for an unforgettable Japanese adventure.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
15 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
TokyoEnds
SapporoMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Japan that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Country
JapanPassengers
$6,360.00
$400.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See
Tokyo
Hiroshima
Matsuyama
Kotohira
Takamatsu
Naruto
Kobe
Osaka
Mount Koya
Kyoto
Tsumago
Matsumoto
Nagano
Monkey Park
Kusatsu
Ikaho
Nikko
Sendai
Matsushima
Hiraizumi
Morioka
Hirosaki
Aomori
Hakodate
Onuma
Noboribetsu
Sapporo
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! Upon your arrival, complete the customs formalities and you'll be transferred to your hotel via a shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. In the afternoon, you'll be informed about the details of your upcoming tour. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.
Day 2 - Tokyo
The day starts with an immersive five-hour guided adventure through Tokyo, a city where bustling modernity and serene tradition beautifully coexist. Our first stop is Zojoji Temple, which offers a stunning view of Tokyo Tower and is adorned with hundreds of Jizo statues, crafted in stone and dressed in colourful caps and bibs, symbolising guardianship over children. Next, we’ll experience the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, where the energy of Tokyo is palpable. We then visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine, honouring Emperor Meiji and his wife, before journeying along the elegant Omotesando Avenue.Our tour takes us past the Imperial Palace, where we'll pause to admire the picturesque gardens and iconic Nijubashi Bridge. As we proceed, we'll pass through Akihabara, also known as the "Electric Town," a renowned hub of manga and anime culture. We'll also catch a glimpse of the Kokugikan, Japan's famed sumo wrestling arena, before arriving in Asakusa to explore Sensoji Temple and the vibrant Nakamise Street. A traditional Japanese lunch awaits at a local restaurant before we return to the hotel.In the evening, we reconvene at 6:30 p.m. in the hotel lobby for a metro journey to Shinjuku, tickets included. This lively district is famed for its vibrant nightlife and bustling streets. Together, we'll enjoy a relaxed walk to a local restaurant for dinner, which is included. After our meal, we’ll return to the hotel via metro with our guide.
Day 3 - Tokyo - Hiroshima
Today begins with breakfast before we transfer to the station to embark on an exciting bullet train journey to Hiroshima. This high-speed adventure covers an impressive 800 kilometres in approximately four hours. On arrival in Hiroshima, we'll explore this significant city, forever remembered as a pivotal site in history due to the atomic bomb of 1945. We'll take a contemplative walk through the Peace Memorial Park, visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, and view the powerful exhibits at the Peace Memorial Museum. These sites serve as a moving tribute to the spirit of resilience and hope that followed a dark chapter in history.Later, we board a ferry to visit an island famously referred to as "where gods and men live together." Our visit here includes the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, which is partially constructed over the sea and dedicated to the sea's guardian deity. You'll have free time to explore the shrine's intricacies, wander through the charming centre of the island, and enjoy some lunch at your leisure. As our day comes to a close, we'll return to Hiroshima for an included dinner, reflecting on the profound experiences of the day. Please note that the order of visits in Hiroshima may vary to ensure you experience all that is planned.
Day 4 - Hiroshima - Matsuyama
We commence today with a ferry ride to Shikoku Island, a delightful two-and-a-half-hour journey ideal for appreciating Japan's rich insular tapestry. Upon reaching Matsuyama, we'll ascend via cable car to explore its magnificent castle, an enduring symbol of the city’s heritage. Our next destination is Ishiteji, a stunning Buddhist temple renowned as a famed pilgrimage site. Lunch is provided at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to unwind at Dogo Onsen, a traditional Japanese bathhouse originating from the 19th century, where admission is included.
Day 5 - Matsuyama - Kotohira - Takamatsu - Naruto - Kobe
Today, we journey to Kotohira to visit the revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors, an important pilgrimage destination perched on Mount Zosu. This site is accessible by climbing a challenging 785 steps, offering stunning views along the way. Following this, we continue to Takamatsu to explore Ritsurin, one of Japan’s most exquisite gardens, a perfect example of traditional landscape design that has been meticulously maintained over centuries. We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before making our way to Naruto. Here, we'll stop at an impressive bridge with a glass floor, providing a dramatic view of the sea’s powerful whirlpools from 45 metres above. Our scenic route takes us across a series of spectacular bridges connecting the islands over the sea. The day concludes as we reach Kobe, where we'll settle in for our overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with cultural and natural wonders.
Day 6 - Kobe - Osaka - Koyasan (Mount Koya)
Today, our journey begins in Kobe, where we will explore the Earthquake Memorial Museum. This poignant museum commemorates the 1995 earthquake that devastated the city and celebrates its extraordinary recovery. Next, we'll travel to Osaka before making our way to the sacred Mount Koya, the heart of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. This revered pilgrimage site is home to 120 temples and monasteries. We will visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a deeply spiritual cemetery located amidst nature, housing over 200,000 graves. Our exploration continues at the Kongobuji Temple, originally constructed in 1593.This evening, we will immerse ourselves in a unique experience, spending the night in a Buddhist monastery. Here, the monks will guide us through Zen meditation (Ajikan), and our stay will include a traditional vegetarian dinner. For those interested, there will be an opportunity to attend the temple’s religious ceremony before breakfast.Please note that on certain occasions, a visit to the Sake Museum or a trip up Kobe Tower may replace our museum itinerary. The monastery offers a simple accommodation style, featuring traditional tatami mat rooms with shared bathroom facilities, offering insights into authentic Japanese living. During peak tourist seasons, meditation sessions may not be available, and when monastery accommodations are full, we may arrange for stays in nearby hotels with half board included.
Day 7 - Koyasan (Mount Koya) - Kyoto
We begin our day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple before departing early for Kyoto. This historical city served as Japan's capital from 794 to 1868 and was the seat of the Imperial Court. Noteworthy for its rich cultural and artistic legacy, Kyoto remained untouched by the bombings of World War II. It is also renowned for hosting the signing of the Kyoto Protocol on greenhouse gas emissions in 1997.Our explorations in Kyoto will take us to some of its most iconic sites. We'll visit the breathtaking Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, stroll through the historic Imperial Palace, and admire the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, commonly known as the 'Golden Pavilion,' with its exquisite gardens. You'll have some free time to delve deeper into the city before we move on to Gion, a buzzing traditional district celebrated for its Geisha culture. There, you can further explore and savour the district's unique atmosphere. If you have previously visited Kyoto on your tour, our guide will offer suggestions and recommendations to help you discover other parts of this fascinating city on your own.
Day 8 - Kyoto - Tsumago - Matsumoto - Nagano
We'll depart from Kyoto and head towards Tsumago, a journey that offers views of the scenic Japanese countryside. Tsumago is celebrated for its enchanting wooden houses and is recognised as one of Japan's most picturesque villages. You'll have the freedom to explore Tsumago at your own pace, with lunch included in your day. Our travels will then take us to Matsumoto, a bustling tourist city where we'll pay a visit to the splendid 16th-century Matsumoto Castle, famously known as "The Crow" for its striking black exterior. Following our visit, you will have the opportunity to discover Matsumoto on your own and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere. We will continue our journey to Nagano, where we will spend the night.
Day 9 - Nagano - Monkey Park - Kusatsu - Ikaho
On our ninth day, we begin in Nagano with a visit to Zenko-ji, a revered pilgrimage site known for housing the first Buddhist image brought to Japan. Here, the Gomakuyo ceremony will be conducted to bless your journey. We then venture into the stunning Japanese Alps, where we'll visit the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch amidst the serene mountain setting, followed by a walk through forests and alongside rivers and hot springs, home to the bathing Japanese macaques.As we climb to altitudes of 2,172 metres, we will pass semi-active volcanoes, revealing breathtaking high-altitude vistas. Our journey continues to Kusatsu, a charming spa town famous for its lively main square. A leisurely walk through the city park, featuring an open-air onsen, awaits.Next, we travel to Ikaho, another picturesque spa town. Here, you'll wander its historic centre, known for scenic, stair-stepped streets. We will be staying overnight at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you will experience the baths and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner included in the stay.Please note that during autumn, the presence of monkeys can be unpredictable if mountain fruits are scarce. If the macaques do not descend, the park may be closed. Also, please be aware that the visit to Kusatsu could be subject to cancellation due to weather conditions from November to April.
Day 10 - Ikaho - Nikko - Sendai
Today, we journey to the captivating town of Nikko, known for its rich cultural heritage. Our exploration begins at the magnificent Nikko-Toshogu Temple, renowned for its "room with the sound of a dragon," an architectural marvel full of intricate carvings and historical significance. We then move on to the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, where a tranquil atmosphere provides a perfect moment of peace. A leisurely walk awaits us along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, a picturesque stretch where hundreds of Jizo statues solemnly watch over the river below.You’ll have some free time to explore the charming town centre of Nikko at your own pace, before we set off for Sendai in the afternoon. Upon arrival in this vibrant and modern city, famous for its bustling streets and dynamic atmosphere, you’ll have the chance to discover its lively city centre and enjoy dinner at your leisure. Sendai is home to over a million residents, offering a delightful blend of modernity and tradition that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Day 11 - Sendai - Matsushima - Hiraizumi - Morioka
On this day, we set off for Matsushima, renowned for its stunning "Thousand Islands" Bay on the Pacific Ocean—a place often hailed as one of Japan's most exquisite destinations. Upon arriving, we'll enjoy a cup of traditional tea in a magnificent tea house overlooking the azure sea, as our guide shares fascinating insights into the city. Following this, we'll embark on a scenic 50-minute cruise around the bay, accompanied by a delightful lunch served onboard. Our journey continues to Hiraizumi, where we'll explore its historic temples. We begin with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Takkoku no Iwaya, an ancient structure carved into the rock back in 801. We’ll also visit the impressive Buddhist temples of Chusonji and find a moment of tranquillity in the serene gardens of Motsuji Temple, where you can participate in a Zen ceremony—admission included. Our day concludes in Morioka, the charming capital of Iwate Province. Here, you'll be free to unwind and explore at your leisure after settling into our hotel for the evening.
Day 12 - Morioka - Hirosaki - Aomori - Hakodate
Today we journey through a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, arriving first in Hirosaki. You'll have the opportunity to explore the city's iconic castle, which is nestled in a picturesque park famous for its 2,500 cherry trees that bloom spectacularly each spring. Following our visit, we travel onwards to Aomori, the provincial capital set on Mutsu Bay. Our time here includes an insightful visit to the Nebuta Museum, where you’ll discover the vibrant traditions of Japan's festival culture, including the captivatingly painted and illuminated floats that enliven the city each year. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant.After lunch, we embark on a leisurely ferry ride to Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, which takes just over three and a half hours and presents stunning scenic views along the way. Upon arrival in Hakodate, we'll explore the historic district, where you can appreciate the city’s diverse cultural influences, such as the Russian Orthodox Church and various Christian churches that dot the landscape.
Day 13 - Hakodate - Onuma - Noboribetsu - Sapporo
On Day 13, we begin our exploration of Hakodate by taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling fish market, a hub of local culture. We'll ascend Goryokaku Tower for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse of the star-shaped design of the historic fortress. Afterwards, you'll have some free time to explore the castle area at your leisure.Our journey continues to Onuma, a stunning natural area dotted with small islands. Here, you'll have the option to enjoy a boat ride or take a leisurely walk along the scenic trails. A delightful lunch will be provided at a local restaurant.In the afternoon, we travel along the scenic coastline to Noboribetsu, an impressive volcanic landscape. We'll stroll through Jigokudani (Hell Valley), witnessing its steam vents, and admire Lake Oyunuma's ethereal waters. Following the hot spring river trail, you'll find a picturesque spot for a relaxing foot bath.Later, we venture onwards to Sapporo, arriving in the evening at this charming northern city, ready to embrace its unique character and allure.
Day 14 - Sapporo
Today, we begin by exploring Sapporo, where we'll visit some of its most iconic landmarks. Our tour includes a stop at the historic Clock Tower and Odori Koen, a beautiful park-lined avenue crowned by the imposing Sapporo TV Tower. We'll also visit the serene Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we’ll participate in a Kito, a traditional ceremonial prayer, offering thanks for our journey. On the city’s outskirts, we'll venture to the Hill of Buddha, known for its avant-garde architecture unveiled in 2015. Surrounded by lavender fields, this site features a colossal Buddha statue and includes replicas of the Moai statues from Easter Island, adding an intriguing touch to our visit.Next, we head to Otaru, a delightful town with European charm. Here, you can stroll along its historic canal and explore the lively shopping streets and charming museums. We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to Sapporo. You'll have the remainder of the afternoon free to discover the city's attractions at your own pace, perhaps visiting a local café or exploring the unique blend of cultural influences that give Sapporo its vibrant character.
Day 15 - Sapporo
Following breakfast, our journey concludes. You'll leave with cherished memories of the adventure we've shared. Safe travels!
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Post-Tour Accommodation - Sapporo
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Tokyo
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
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