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Return to Japan: Intrepid Travel Leads Surge of New Tours

Intrepid's Premium Japan Tour includes authentic on-trip experiences. Photo: Shutterstock.com 

In October 2022, Japan re-opened for unrestricted foreign tourism for the first time in two years since the pandemic closed its borders.

Tour operators like Intrepid Travel are seeing a boom in visitors as pent-up demand is making the country one of the prime destinations for 2023. Intrepid has announced more than 240 Japan trip departures in 2023, according to Kenny Onishi, Intrepid’s general manager in Japan.

What should visitors expect on these re-introduced Japan tours, and what tips should travel advisors give customers? I joined one of Intrepid’s first Japan tours after the opening, and share below both tour highlights and key learnings from my experience.

What visitors should know about travel to Japan:

• No Visa for Americans, but pre-registration is required: Japan has ended the temporary visa requirement for American tourists, but incoming visitors still must pre-register via Visit Japan Web with proof of vaccination or recent test results. Clients (and tour companies) should be advised to check the S. Embassy in Japan website for the latest information.
• J apan is historically inexpensive right now. While the dollar has retreated from a recent 30-year high against the yen, current figures of 130 yen to the dollar mean travelers will see in-country prices converting about 25% cheaper than pre-pandemic. That means more affordable shopping, dining, attractions, transport, and lodging. Organized tour prices in dollars have remained steady.
• Mask-wearing is still nearly universal in Japan. Visitors should be aware that many shops, hotel lobbies, transport, and attractions continue to require masks for protection against COVID-19, although there is no official government mandate. Most Japanese still wear masks at all times in public, with the exception of dining and some outdoor activities.
• Fewer visitors to Japan means now is a great time to visit . Given the continued lack of tourism from China, which normally supplies 60% of total inbound visitors, according to Intrepid’s Onishi, Japan’s visitor figures are still down. Fewer visitors to tourist attractions, at least for the short to mid-term, means now is a great time to book a trip.

Tour Highlights: Intrepid Travel’s Premium Japan Tour Intrepid Travel, long a leader in Japan tours, has an impressive array of 240 scheduled trip departures on more than a dozen unique itineraries for 2023. The trips run from 8 to 24 days with budget, luxury, cultural immersion, foodie, family, and action-adventure options available.

I joined Intrepid’s Premium Japan Tour , a 12-day journey covering the country’s cultural and scenic highlights. The “Premium” experience (tours begin at $7435 per person, not including airfare) gives customers a higher level of lodging and dining selections, along with unique experiences like a sushi-making class, and a meditation retreat in a classic Kyoto Zen shrine.   

A bilingual local expert-led our tour, bringing our group of eight guests on daily excursions and also giving suggestions and navigation tips for free time activities. Tour sizes are typically 8-12 people, with combinations of both couples and solo travelers.

Our trip began in Tokyo, which is at once the most intimidating and accessible city in Japan. The crowded, sprawling, neon-lit metropolis can be overwhelming on one’s own, but is actually highly accessible with its ultra-efficient rail system. Our guide navigated the rainbow spaghetti maps of two dozen different train lines to whisk us around town like VIPs.

The tour’s hotel for the first couple of nights was on the upper end of a three-star hotel (typical for the trip), with inclusive breakfast buffets, great views, and nearby access to prime sightseeing locations. Tokyo’s famed Asakusa shrine was footsteps away, enabling us to visit early morning to beat the crowds.

The highlight of the Tokyo tour, for me, was the full foodie immersion walking through Tokyo’s Tsukiji street markets sampling every manner of freshly prepared seafood followed by a sushi-making class.

The tour took efforts to balance the urban with the rural, taking us to the UNESCO heritage site of the Takayama mountain farming community, with traditional straw A-frame homes set amidst stunning alpine scenery. We also sailed the dazzling blue lake waters in Hakone National Park near snow-peaked Mt. Fuji, feeling as if we were in the middle of a picture postcard.

The trip continued, via the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima, for a sobering history lesson at the Peace Park memorials. The mood was lightened by an exploration of local cuisine and parks.

Kyoto’s status as Japan’s classical capital makes it an essential stop on any Japan tour. The Intrepid journey concluded there, with visits to centuries-old classic shrines and temples, interspersed with dining on traditional Kaiseki meals that were as tasty as they were artistic.

For first-timers to Japan, Intrepid’s Premium Japan Tour hits all the highlights, providing both a breadth and depth of experience to supply visitors with stories to share for years to come. The only downside of such a comprehensive tour is the time spent on transport between locations, with multiple multi-hour train rides required. For clients looking for more depth and less travel, I’d recommend tours with less geographic scope, focused on a specific region. Clients can always return for more! 

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Premium Highlights of Japan

9 Days Starting in Tokyo and ending in Kyoto

Visiting: Tokyo, Kamakura, Yudanaka, Kanazawa, Kyoto

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

Physical rating:.

15-99 years

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

Trip styles:.

Small Group

Cultural , History , Rail Tours

Activities:

Art Galleries & Museums , Shopping

NB: Prices correct on 08-May-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour overview.

If you want to experience a few (of the many) highlights of Japan, all while staying in comfortable accommodation with like-minded travellers, this Premium adventure from Tokyo to Kyoto is a must! You’ll spend nine days exploring world-class shopping neighbourhoods, geisha districts, hole-in-the-wall eateries, ancient temples and markets with some of the freshest seafood you’ll find. Learn about the history of samurai from a family of contemporary ninjas, feast on monjayaki and teppanyaki on a dinner cruise in Tokyo, try to find snow monkeys bathing in hot springs on the mountain in Yamanouchi, wander through a designated Place of Scenic Beauty in Arashiyama and Japan’s most celebrated landscape garden in Kanazawa and follow the trail at a sacred shrine in Kyoto.

Experience a traditional Japanese Onsen (an area of natural hot springs surrounded by traditional inns and bathing facilities) at your Feature Stay and soak away a day of hiking to the Jigokudani Monkey Park.

See and touch some traditional samurai weaponry, try on some authentic attire and learn about the rich history of these warriors with an Authentic Samurai Experience at a 400-year-old dojo run by contemporary ninjas in Tokyo.

Take a day trip to Kamakura, a coastal treasure known for its history, and see the sights on a traditional, person-led rickshaw, followed by a train ride on one of the oldest electric railways in the country.

Feast your way through Japan with an all-inclusive dinner cruise on a yakatabune in Tokyo, a market visit in Kanazawa where you can pick your ingredients for a lunchtime cooking class at a local’s home and a sweet-making class in Kyoto.

Explore Arashiyama – a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty in Kyoto. Walk through the bamboo grove and participate in ritual at the many temples and shrines in the area.

By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.

By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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Day 1: Tokyo

Location: tokyo, accommodation: hotel, gracery asakusa, meals included: dinner.

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan. Your adventure begins in Tokyo with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Bursting with contemporary urban culture, Tokyo has many sides to explore, from fascinating museums and world-class shopping to neighbourhood backstreets lined with hole-in-the-wall eateries and bars. After your meeting tonight, you’ll head out for an included welcome dinner with your new trip leader and fellow travellers. Included Activities: - Tokyo - Welcome dinner

Day 2: Tokyo

Meals included: breaksfastdinner.

This morning after breakfast at your hotel, you’ll head out for a leader-led walking tour of Asakusa – an area of Tokyo that retains the vibe of older Tokyo, lined with craft shops and street-food stalls. Asakusa’s main attraction is Sensoji Temple. You’ll explore this ancient Buddhist temple, the oldest and one of the most significant in the city and learn how it became independent from the Tendai sect of Buddhism after World War II. Then, head to a non-profit family-owned dojo boasting over 400 years of operation for an authentic samurai experience run by contemporary ninjas. Learn about the history and culture of Samurai, from a descendant of an original Samurai clan, see and touch real weaponry and try on some traditional costumes. Tonight, you’ll hop on a yakatabune (a traditional houseboat) for a dinner cruise down the Sumida River. Floating by some of Tokyo’s best sights, you’ll feast on teppanyaki and monjayaki (savoury pancake) and enjoy bottomless drinks. Included Activities: - Tokyo - Authentic Samurai Experience - Tokyo - Sensoji Temple - Tokyo - Monja Boat Dinner Cruise

Day 3: Tokyo

Location: tokyo, kamakura, tokyo, meals included: breaksfast.

This morning after breakfast, head out on a day trip to Kamakura – a small coastal town known for its historical treasures, sometimes called ‘the Kyoto of Eastern Japan’. See the sites with a unique mode of transport – a traditional rickshaw. Your knowledgeable driver (there are no wheels on this rickshaw, only your guide’s feet) will tell you all about the local history, the best spots to pick up some local favourites for lunch and maybe even take you to some secret spots along the way. See the Jufukuji Temple, the Eishoji Temple and Kawakita Film Museum. After, you’ll switch your guide’s feet for train tracks on a traditional Enoden ride – the electric railway that the Enoden travels on is the sixth oldest railway in all of Japan! This train will take you through some winding, narrow alleyways that no other train could ride through. Included Activities: - Tokyo - Kamakura Day Trip - Kamakura-Enoden Ride - Kamakura-Rickshaw Ride

Day 4: Yudanaka

Location: yudanaka, accommodation: issa no komichi (feature stay) or similiar, meals included: breaksfast, dinner.

This morning after breakfast, you’ll make the train journey to Yamanouchi – home of the famed snow monkeys who live at the Jigokudani Monkey Park. When you arrive, head to your Feature Stay to settle in – a traditional-style onsen (hot springs and the bathing facilities and inns that surround the springs). Head out on a group hike to the park. This is the only place in the world where monkeys bathe in hot springs! If the season’s right, you can watch the Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) bathing, pruning each other and relaxing in the steaming waters by the mountain. Back at the accommodation, maybe take a quick dip in the onsite hot springs, some overlooking the rolling greens of the mountain surroundings. Tonight, you’ll enjoy a group dinner at your accommodation of seasonal wild plants, fresh local vegetables and natural river fish from the Chikuma River nearby. Included Activities: - Yudanaka - Snow Monkey Park - Yudanaka - Onsen Experience

Day 5: Kanazawa

Location: kanazawa, accommodation: intergate kanazawa.

This morning after breakfast, take the train to Kanazawa, known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, handicrafts, garden and castle. When you arrive, pick up some lunch, then you’ll visit Kenrokuen Garden – Japan’s most celebrated landscape garden, which began in the 17th century. This park is celebrated for its classic landscape designs that feature ponds and streams, promoting well-being, a clear mind and a connection to nature. After wandering through the garden, you’ll walk by the foot of the former Kanazawa Castle – this historic area was once a residential district for the city’s samurai. After exploring Nagamachi Samurai District and learning about the area’s past, continue exploring in the Higashi Chaya District – a small neighbourhood with teahouses, alleys and lots of shops and restaurants. Maybe ask your leader for recommendations on how to spend the late afternoon. Included Activities: - Kanazawa - Kenrokuen Garden - Kanazawa - Samurai District Walking Tour - Kanazawa - Higashi Chaya District walking tour

Day 6: Kanazawa

Meals included: breaksfast, lunch.

After breakfast, you’ll continue exploring Kanazawa with a tour of Omicho Market – the hub of the local food culture, famous for its seafood and locally grown produce. With a local guide with all the insight into the region, the food and the market, you’ll wind your way through the stalls and learn how to spot the freshest ingredients. You’ll then choose some fish and vegetables for your lunchtime cooking class – then head back to your guide’s kitchen and learn some tips and tricks on how to cook a traditional Kanazawa meal. Sit down as a group and enjoy the fruits of your labour, before enjoying an afternoon at your leisure. Included Activities: - Kanazawa - Market Visit and Home Cooking Experience

Day 7: Kyoto

Location: kyoto, accommodation: intergate kyoto.

Today, you’ll leave Kanazawa on the Thunderbird train, headed for Kyoto – once the capital of Japan, this city in Honshu is famous for its classic Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, gardens, imperial palaces and traditional architecture. When you arrive, you’ll head to Arashiyama – in the west, this area is a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. Explore the Togetsu-kyo Bridge, the Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple and Kameyama-koen Park on the hilltop. After some time for lunch, head to a townhouse for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to make traditional Japanese confectionary, which are adorned with cute designs. Learn about mochi, dried sweets, fresh sweets and even make a matcha green tea to go with them!  Included Activities: - Kyoto - Traditional Sweet Making Experience

Day 8: Kyoto

After breakfast this morning, visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine – known for the distinctly red tunnels of more than 10,000 vermilion torii gates that wind over the hills of Mount Inari. After, head to Nishiki Market, where you might like to grab a bite to eat from one of the hundred shops and restaurants that line this narrow shopping street. Your leader will know some of the best spots in the marketplace, so you don’t miss out on any must-try delights. Head to Gion, filled with shops, restaurants and teahouses. This area is a geisha district, meaning hostesses in colourful kimonos are often sighted on the Tatsumi Bridge and in the boutiques of Hanamikoji Street. Tonight, you’ll sit down for an included group dinner to say goodbye, share stories (and great photos) and celebrate a trip well-travelled. Included Activities: - Kyoto - Fushimi Inari - Taisha - Kyoto - Nishiki market visit - Kyoto - Arashiyama Walking Tour

Day 9: Kyoto

With no activities planned today, your trip will come to an end. If you’d like to spend longer in Kyoto, just speak to your booking agent.

What's Included

Accommodation.

As detailed in the itinerary

Airport Transfers at Destination

Tokyo - Welcome dinner

Tokyo - Authentic Samurai Experience

Tokyo - Sensoji Temple

Tokyo - Monja Boat Dinner Cruise

Tokyo - Kamakura Day Trip

Kamakura-Enoden Ride

Kamakura-Rickshaw Ride

Yudanaka - Snow Monkey Park

Yudanaka - Onsen Experience

Kanazawa - Kenrokuen Garden

Kanazawa - Samurai District Walking Tour

Kanazawa - Higashi Chaya District walking tour

Kanazawa - Market Visit and Home Cooking Experience

Kyoto - Traditional Sweet Making Experience

Kyoto - Fushimi Inari - Taisha

Kyoto - Nishiki market visit

Kyoto - Arashiyama Walking Tour

What's Not Included

International Travel

• Train , Bus
• The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
• Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
• AVAILABILITY
• The recent huge increase in tourism to Japan has put a lot of pressure on accommodation. On occasion, we may need to change accommodation from what is listed in the itinerary in order to operate your departure with minimal changes.
• We like to encourage travellers to visit traditional Japanese 'onsens' while in the country as it is a quintessential local experience. In public onsens this means bathing naked with others of the same gender. While the experience can feel strange at first for some, most of our groups end up enjoying this activity. There is very specific etiquette for visiting onsens - your leader can give you some tips and instructions. Please be aware that travellers with tattoos may not be permitted to enter public onsens. Private onsens may also be available - talk to your leader for more information. See our guide to onsens here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/japan-onsen-guide/
• FROSTED WINDOWS
• Many hotels in Japan (and especially in Kyoto) may have frosted or opaque windows. This is to maintain privacy. While the windows let in natural light, you may not be able to see out.

Important Information

• 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room?on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip?and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
• 2. It is essential you pack light and compact for rail travel in Japan. One piece of big luggage is included for transfer from destination to destination on this trip while travelling on the train. For any additional luggage to be transferred, additional charges will apply. There are size restrictions for luggage on Shinkansen trains if you plan to take them with you. Luggage over 160–250 cm may require an additional JPY1000 fee per train journey. Luggage over 251 cm will NOT be permitted on the Shinkansen trains. Please notify your group leader at the welcome meeting if your luggage is over 160–250 cm so they can help you make the necessary arrangements. Please review the Packing section of the ETIs for more details on luggage transfers.
• 3. We are not able to book airport shuttle service between Kyoto and Kansai Airport at the moment. Your leader will be able to advise on best ways of getting to Kansai Airport in Osaka.
• 4. A complimentary arrival transfer is not included on this trip.

Check out our Q&As

Is this trip right for you.

Japan is best to explore on foot. In fact, most travellers are surprised at how much distance they end up covering just exploring places on foot! Make sure your shoes are comfy and you are fit enough to spend most of each day on your feet. This trip travels primarily on public transport, as it is so efficient and convenient in Japan. Fast trains are used to move between cities, as well as public buses and metro. In order to make the travel easy, we have included luggage transfer (one piece of luggage) between destinations on the following days: DAY 4 - Tokyo to Kanazawa - we will tranfer your luggage and you will see it again on DAY 6. For your stay in Yudanaka you will take a overnight bag/backpack

Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

Yes, 15 years old or above

What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

LOW - Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

Will there be an escort accompanying this tour, is there any free time to explore places during the tour, are airport transfers included in this tour, what policies are in place for covid-19.

Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

How long has the tour company been trading?

Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

What ethical travel credentials does the tour company have.

Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

North american adventure.

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Cambodia Discovery

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

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Touring the beautiful North of Morocco I learned far more than I’d anticipated in this 9 day tour. Interesting sights to see, with knowledgeable local guides, this tour provides a great balance of exposure to a different culture with ample time for relaxation. Chefchaouen is an absolute highlight, & not a place many Morocco trips of this kind go to. Loved it!

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Essential Morocco was an absolute dream. Every single day had such informative walking tours and tours of local facilities. Whether it was dinner with a local family or visiting a pottery factory, I learned so much about Moroccan culture. The accommodations were safe and I felt secure the entire 11 days. This trip wouldn’t have been the same without one person. That person is Youssef. If you are coming to Morocco with Intrepid and you don’t request Youssef, you’re doing it wrong. Words cannot describe how incredible of a guide he is. There were 3 of us on our trip of 18-29 year olds and he made us all feel so welcome and safe all the time. Whether that is cracking jokes on long drives or giving us the itinerary for the next day, Youssef ensured we felt respected and seen.

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Dates & Availability

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Saturday - Sunday

Operator discount: -$563 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$139 (USD)

Operator discount: -$844 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$132 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$155 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$156 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$173 (USD)

Tuesday - Wednesday

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$179 (USD)

Wednesday - Thursday

Operator discount: -$326 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$170 (USD)

Monday - Tuesday

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$192 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$185 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$172 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$166 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$178 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$163 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$174 (USD)

Book with Confidence

Free date changes.

Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

Transfer as credit to Future Tours

Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

Low Deposit

Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy

We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

COVID Protection

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19. However, we continue to strongly recommend that all travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and other Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully. This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination remains a requirement. Please refer to the Essential Trip Information of your chosen tour for more details.

Terms and Conditions

Click here to read our full terms and conditions

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Essential Japan

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• COVID-19 protected
• Customizable
• Booking Type Instant booking
• duration 10 days
• tour type Small group Request as private
• age requirement 18-35 yrs
• max group size 16
• guiding method Fully guided
• Tour Code BM-16904

• Starts Tokyo, Japan
• Ends Osaka, Japan
• Explore Japan’s amazingly diverse destinations with loads of free time to see them your way. With all the nitty gritty details and transport worked out for you, you can focus on indulging in endless sushi, katsudon and okonomoyaki.
• Immerse yourself in the varied neighbourhoods of Tokyo – from the technological subculture of Akihabara to the wild side of fashion in Harajuku and the nightlife of Roppongi – each suburb is almost like a city of its own!
• Uncover the sobering history of Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Museum – a vital destination for all Japan travellers to gain an insight into the tragic events of the nation’s past.
• Wander Kyoto with a leader-led walking tour around the Gion district – the heart of the city’s Geisha culture – then walk through the iconic Fushimi Inari-Taisha (the perfect spot for some iconic Japan photos).
• Live your Samurai fantasies in feudal-era Kanazawa – known as the birthplace of the Samurai. Then, wander through gorgeous historic gardens and hit the bars to debrief with your group.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.
• Day 1: Tokyo
• Day 2: Tokyo
• Day 3: Kanazawa
• Day 4: Kanazawa
• Day 5: Kyoto
• Day 6: Kyoto
• Day 7: Hiroshima
• Day 8: Hiroshima
• Day 9: Osaka
• Day 10: Osaka
• Multishare Hostel (5 nights), Hotel/Ryokan (2 nights), Family Owned Guesthouse (2 nights)
• Public Bus , Metro , Train , Bullet Train
• An expert tour leader
• Tokyo - Meiji Jingu Shrine
• Tokyo - Shibuya walking tour
• Tokyo - Yoyogi Park
• Tokyo - Harajuku street
• Kanazawa - Higashi Chaya District walking tour
• Kyoto - Gion District walk
• Kyoto - Fushimi Inari-Taisha
• Hiroshima - Peace Park & A - Bomb Dome
• Hiroshima - Peace Museum
• Hiroshima - Miyajima Island
• Osaka - Dotombori District walking tour
• Any international flights to Tokyo and from Osaka are not included in this price. We always recommend that you arrive 1 day prior to your tour starting date.
• Travel insurance is not included in this Essential Japan tour. Travel insurance is mandatory to buy. World Nomads' travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers.
• Personal Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.
• Protected Travel within your own bubble.
• Professional Access our Travel Specialists' insider knowledge.
• Privacy Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.
• Earn US$ 64+ in travel credits.
• Best price guaranteed.
• No credit card or booking fees.
• 100% financial protection.
• Carbon neutral tours.
• 25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
• Read more reasons to book with Bookmundi less Read less

No additional cancellation fees apply for this Essential Japan tour. You can cancel the tour up to 58 days prior departure and avoid paying the full amount, but your deposit paid is non-refundable. No refund applies for cancellations within 57 days of departure.

For any tour departures within 04 July 2024, full payment is required. For tours that depart later than 04 July 2024, a deposit is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 57 days before trip departure.

Essential Japan tour requires that you have adequate and valid travel insurance covering medical and personal accidents, including repatriation costs and emergency evacuation. World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travelers and intrepid families.

For this Essential Japan tour getting the required visa(s) is the responsibility for each individual traveller, as visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. We recommend to check with your local embassies representing the countries that you are traveling to, as part of this itinerary.

• This tour includes accommodation in multi-share dormitories. In Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, you won't be staying in twin share hotels, but rather cool hangouts with shared facilities. This means travellers on the same booking may be split between rooms due to the single gender dormitories.
• In some destinations you may be staying in a ryokan style room. It’s a great taste of tradition, however not everyone finds futon mattresses on a tatami mat floor and proximity to other guests as comfortable as western-style hotels. 
• Your leader will take you on orientation walks in each destination, giving you tips on places to eat and recommendations of fun things to do. For more in depth exploration, you can head off on your own or with other members of your group, or in Tokyo, book one of our Urban Adventures day tours. Public transport to get to various sites is easy and cheap. Please take the cost of transport into account when planning your budget for activities.
• You will easily surpass your 10,000 steps a day on this trip, in fact most travellers are surprised at how much distance they end up covering just exploring places on foot! Make sure your shoes are comfy and you are fit enough to spend most days on your feet.
• As the trip only has limited time in Tokyo and Osaka, we highly recommend staying a few extra days before and after your tour to enjoy all these great cities have to offer.
• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is no longer mandatory on departures after 1st January 2023. Nonetheless, all travellers are strongly advised to be vaccinated as a safety measure to protect themselves and others on the tour. This policy excludes all Polar trips and select adventure cruises, where testing and vaccination are required.
• Also, proof of vaccination may still be required at specific entry points or by the airlines. Therefore, please make sure to check all the travel requirements carefully before travelling.

This trip incorporates the following COVID-19 measures:

• This tour has received the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels stamp, which provides travellers with assurance that COVID-19 health and hygiene global standardised protocols have been adopted.
• Hygiene and safety guidelines will be followed to ensure your well being is looked after during travels.

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Essential Japan

Health Safety +

• Explore Japan’s amazingly diverse destinations with loads of free time to see them your way. With all the nitty gritty details and transport worked out for you, you can focus on indulging in endless sushi, katsudon and okonomoyaki.
• Immerse yourself in the varied neighbourhoods of Tokyo – from the technological subculture of Akihabara to the wild side of fashion in Harajuku and the nightlife of Roppongi – each suburb is almost like a city of its own!
• Uncover the sobering history of Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Museum – a vital destination for all Japan travellers to gain an insight into the tragic events of the nation’s past.
• Wander Kyoto with a leader-led walking tour around the Gion district – the heart of the city’s Geisha culture – then walk through the iconic Fushimi Inari-Taisha (the perfect spot for some iconic Japan photos).
• Live your Samurai fantasies in feudal-era Kanazawa – known as the birthplace of the Samurai. Then, wander through gorgeous historic gardens and hit the bars to debrief with your group.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.

What's this trip about?

Travel themes.

• 18 - 30's

Destinations

Attractions, trip includes.

• Tokyo - Meiji Jingu Shrine
• Tokyo - Shibuya walking tour
• Tokyo - Yoyogi Park
• Tokyo - Harajuku street
• Kanazawa - Higashi Chaya District walking tour
• Kyoto - Gion District walk
• Kyoto - Fushimi Inari-Taisha
• Hiroshima - Peace Park & A - Bomb Dome
• Hiroshima - Peace Museum
• Hiroshima - Miyajima Island
• Osaka - Dotombori District walking tour

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Premium Japan

Explore Kanazawa on foot today, on a walking tour of the Higashi Chaya district. Get lost among Geisha as you walk through alleyways and traditional Chaya houses, known locally as places of tradition, feasts and entertainment. If tea's your thing, perhaps enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at one of the local tea houses. The afternoon will then be free for you to explore on your own.

There are no activities planned for today, and you can depart at any time after check out. If you’d like to extend your stay and explore Universal Studios or more of Osaka’s nightlife, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Our travelers have three styles of tour to choose from: Basix, Original and Comfort. Each has a different level of inclusions and accommodation, but all have unforgettable real life experiences as part of the package. Travellers can also choose themed trips, such as Family, Sailing or Food, to suit their interests.

Our group size has an average of just ten travellers, which allows us to get off the beaten track, use local accommodation and transport, and really get to know the culture. It also ensures we are contributing to the local economy; by choosing local suppliers we were able to keep AUD 60 million in local economies in 2012. We’re also working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and were the first in our sector to introduce carbon offset trips. This, along with our many corporate sustainability activities, has meant we’re one of the travel industry’s leaders in responsible travel.

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Intrepid Travel has come a long way since its beginnings in 1989. From two university friends, a typewriter and a kitchen desk, it is now a proud member of The Intrepid Group, taking over 100,000 travelers every year.

Intrepid Travel is part of The Intrepid Group of companies, alongside leading small group adventure companies Peregrine, Urban Adventures and PEAK DMC.

Despite growing into a global business with over 1,000 staff based all over the world and over 800 different trips across every continent, we’ve remained devoted to the same grassroots values and responsible travel philosophies that we had at the very beginning.

On every trip we operate and in every interaction we have with a client, supplier or local, we live our core values everyday:

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What is Premium travel?

Premium travel is all about exceptional experiences, a higher service level and excellent value. We use private or first-class local transport, have perfectly paced itineraries and stay in handpicked accommodation. You’ll pay more than any of our other styles of travel, but in exchange you’ll be treated to more included meals, our most experienced local leaders and have more immersive activities included in your trip.

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What is the accommodation like?

Specially selected for both quality and location and with an average rating of 4 stars, Premium accommodation brings you closer to each destination. While sometimes off-grid or remote, you can always count on comfort and personalised service.

Feature stays

All our Premium itineraries include a feature stay in a unique property chosen for historical significance, to showcase the local architectural style or to provide an unusual and exceptional local experience. Think a Ming-dynasty heritage house in China or a converted Madrasah in Uzbekistan.

We bring our B Corp ethos to the front when we design Premium trips, by featuring accommodations that use renewable energy sources or that give back to the local community.

I'm travelling solo

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What else is included in the price?

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Local leader

The passion of our local leaders is what makes Intrepid’s trips so special. Premium trips are all led by Intrepid’s most experienced leaders, who will be available around the clock to make sure your trip is memorable and to share their invaluable local insights with you.

Premium knowledge

Premium itineraries are designed and curated by Intrepid’s in-destination experts. Our genuine small group size (an average of 10 travellers per group) means you can easily access your leader’s time and attention.

Exceptional experiences 

Our Premium trips feature more included activities than any of our other styles, in addition to access to more local guides and experts. Experiences are less physically demanding than on most of our trips, ranging from cultural to culinary, wellness to wildlife, and more. 

Premium itineraries include more meals than other Intrepid styles, and all breakfasts are covered, so be sure to pack your appetite! From homecooked feasts and roadside markets to locally owned restaurants and multicourse gourmet dinners, Premium meals are so much more than just food – they’re an experience to remember. 

Premium service

From the first step of your journey, our team on the ground are on hand to provide premium service to you. With included arrival transfers, luggage porterage and 24/7 in-destination support, the little details won’t get in the way of a big adventure.  

All incidental tipping (excluding for your local leader) is included in the price of your Premium trip, saving you the hassle so you can just enjoy every moment.

Why choose Intrepid Premium

Exceptional accommodation

Handpicked for both quality and location, our design-driven, Premium accommodations ensure you’ll always be comfortable and well-looked after. With an average local accommodation rating of 4 stars, and a unique, feature stay on every itinerary, you’ll be completely immersed in the destination you’re visiting.

Exclusive experiences

These once-in-a-lifetime trips include totally unique experiences you won’t find on any other Intrepid itineraries. Whether you’re catching your lunch with a fisherman in Croatia, dining with a park ranger in Uganda or discovering Rome’s colosseum by night, these exclusive experiences allow you to deep dive into local culture in an exceptional and authentic way.  

Unmatched knowledge

All our itineraries are designed by Intrepid’s travel experts, based in-destination. Premium trips are led by our most experienced local leaders, who have an in-depth knowledge and an extensive local network, to help make your trip unforgettable. With an average of 10 travellers per group, you won't need to compete for your leader’s time and attention.

Personalised service

With an arrival transfer, daily breakfast, luggage porterage and incidental tipping (excluding leader tip) included in all our Premium itineraries, you can be sure you’re getting the highest level of service. You’ll also enjoy 24/7 support from your local leader and our team on the ground throughout the entire trip.    

How we get around

Our Premium trips mostly use private vehicles, though in some destinations we seek out unique modes of transport for speed and convenience. 

This could be a first-class train in Asia, a 4x4 in Africa or a short flight between more far-flung destinations.

Why travel with us

Safe travels

As we gradually return to running trips, the safety and wellbeing of our travellers, leaders, crew, staff and suppliers will remain our priority and our return to operations will be done in a safe and responsible way. 

Flexible bookings

We understand that sometimes plans change. That’s why, when you book with us you have the flexibility to change your travel plans to suit you – with assurance that your money is protected. 

Certified B Corp

When we became certified as the world's largest travel B Corp in 2018, it was not only our official pledge to be a responsible business, but also a promise to be the best travel company for the world.

Read more about Intrepid Premium

Not sure this is your style of travel.

Check out our Basix , Original or Comfort  styles or compare all our styles .