expat explore japan tour

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Experiential 14 Day Japan Tour Traditional & Modern TOURCODE: JP6

Duration: 14 Days

Activity Level: 2

When To Go: Apr, Oct

Countries Visited: 1

Arrive In / Depart From: Tokyo / Kyoto

Max Group Size: 18

Tour Style: Cultural

Price From:

Discover the country's true culture with the help of experienced local guides.

• Small group sizes to help escape the beaten path.
• Authentic local experiences with lots of inclusions.

Our Experiential Japan tour is designed and intended for those travellers who want to directly experience Japanese culture and society, ancient and modern, and to venture beyond the main tourist route.

We've been offering unique itineraries in Japan for almost two decades, and this exciting new trip responds to many past travellers who have expressed a desire to return and to more fully engage with Japanese society and traditions beyond the experiences and sites featured by our more mainstream Japan programs.

This trip also appeals to the foodie, and to those who see food and eating as a very instructive window into the soul of a culture.

To this end, we invite you to open your minds, pack your sense of adventure, and lets us help you delve deep into the magic that is Japan, at once strongly traditional and unabashedly modern.

Prices below are per person , twin-sharing costs in Canadian Dollars (CAD) . Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here .

Select a date below to reserve your spot:

Our tour end point (Kyoto) is best-served by Kansai Airport (Osaka) from which most international flights depart. Flights that connect in Japan before going international will likely depart Itami, the domestic airport serving Osaka. PLEASE NOTE that, due to logistical challenges and high costs in Japan, we offer customization services only for groups of minimum 10 participants plus a mandatory tour leader.

Optional Single Supplement: $1000 CAD (number of singles limited).

Day 1 Arrival in Tokyo Today we arrive in Tokyo and transfer to our hotel. Tokyo is Japan's capital and the country's largest city. Prior to 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. A small castle town in the 16th century, Edo became Japan's political centre in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his feudal government there. A few decades later, Edo had grown into one of the world's most populous cities. Today it's a fascinating, mind-boggling amalgam of the traditional and the hyper-modern, and the perfect place to begin our immersion into Japanese culture and society. PLEASE NOTE: Due to Japan Rail procedures related to your passes used for the tour, it is important that you arrive no later than "Day 1", the published start date of your tour. Overnight in Tokyo. Included Meal(s): Dinner

Day 2 Tokyo: City Touring Tokyo is a dazzling modern metropolis rich in history and tradition. While the pace and the glitz of the city can be overwhelming, we will do our best to also showcase the tranquil, traditional side of the world's most populous city. We have a private bus at our disposal today, though we may, during our time in the city, also make use of its legendarily efficient public transit system, an excellent way to observe the locals going about their daily lives in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. We’ll kick off our morning with a visit to one of Tokyo’s venerable department stores, the earliest of which were founded during the early 1900s. Their predecessors were kimono stores, which supplied various types of luxurious goods during the Edo and Meiji periods. Japanese department stores are famous for their unparalleled customer service; we’ll aim to be there just before it opens when we will see its employees lined up neatly, waiting to welcome customers. The moment the second hand of the clock hits the opening time, the doors punctually open and customers can make a grand entrance being flanked by bowing and greeting staff. We’ll take some time to stroll through the food halls, where you will see the amazing variety of beautifully-presented foods being sold at unbelievably high prices. Seeing where and how the Japanese shop, what they buy, for whom and for what occasion, offers instructive glimpses into a highly sophisticated social strata where conventions of human interaction and presentation are minutely-defined. Whether it be for a wedding, business meeting or returning from a trip, the culture of gift giving in Japan is one of the most prevalent in the world. However, unlike in some other cultures, in Japan the emphasis is more on the ritual of gift giving than the gift itself. This dates back to the Edo period when a lucky few would go on pilgrimages and bring back souvenirs for the villagers who weren’t able to go. You’ll have time here to pick up supplies for a picnic lunch at our next stop (a “bento box” is an excellent and convenient option). We then move on to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, part of the inner palace area. The Imperial Palace, or Kokyo, built on the site of the Edo-jo Castle, is an impregnable fortress that housed the Tokugawa Shogunate for 265 years until Emperor Meiji moved the court here in 1860's. Surrounded by moats, the original outer walls extended for over 16 km (10 miles) and were thick enough for a squad of samurai to walk six abreast on top. Even in its original state, it deceptively looked more like an administrative villa than a fortress. The buildings survived until they were all but obliterated by the fire bombings of WWII. You’ll have time to explore a bit, see the iconic bridge, and to enjoy your picnic lunch in a relatively peaceful setting. Our next stop is Meiji Shrine. Entry into the shrine grounds (a ten minute walk) is marked by a massive torii gate, after which the sights and sounds of the busy city are replaced by a tranquil forest. The approximately 100,000 trees that make up Meiji Jingu's forest were planted during the shrine's construction and were donated from regions across the entire country. At the middle of the forest, Meiji Jingu's buildings also have an air of tranquility distinct from the surrounding city. While in the vicinity of the shrine, time- and weather-permitting, we may be able to take a stroll down nearby Takeshita Street, possibly the busiest and definitely the most colourful pedestrianized shopping street in Tokyo. Our last stop is Ueno Park and the National Museum which, among other things, features the finest collection of Japanese art in the country. After our guided tour of the museum we will return to our hotel before our evening meal at a local restaurant. Overnight in Tokyo. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3 Tokyo: Sushi Making Class This morning we take a fascinating dive into Japanese seafood cuisine during a 3-hour combination walking tour of a local fishmarket and cooking class, where we can learn to prepare traditional style 'washoku' food items like sushi and a Japanese omelette. We meet up with our guide in front of Tsukiji Honganji Temple, located just outside the market. Then we step inside this temple to all things seafood for an in-depth shopping session including some time for photography and exploration. As you wander the aisles of this colourful and chaotic market, you’ll observe everything from sea urchins to octopus arranged for sale. We'll then proceed with our guide to the gourmet cooking studio of one of Asia's largest culinary schools, boasting more than 150 studios throughout the region. Following the instruction of an experienced cooking teacher, we'll learn to prepare two 'washoku' recipes, a style of Japanese cuisine emphasizing traditional and homemade techniques. This typically includes a sushi roll along with a Japanese style omelette called Tamagoyaki, plus side dishes. This will be an excellent and fun introduction to Japanese cuisine, definitely a highlight of any trip to Japan. We finish our session by digging into our tasty creations for lunch accompanied by drinks. We'll leave with full stomachs and a new-found appreciation for the wondrous world of Japanese cuisine and its top-notch ingredients. Because of our late/filling lunch and full day tomorrow, and because you may be planning an evening activity before we leave Tokyo, we will leave dinner on your own account tonight. Your Tour Leader can help you plan. Tomorrow our large luggage is transported to Nagano for us -- please pack an OVERNIGHT BAG for TWO NIGHTS. Your Tour Leader will advise in advance re recommended items to have with you for the next two days. Overnight in Tokyo. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 Tokyo - Bullet Train to Yamagata - Mt Haguro & Sanjin Gosai-den Today we travel to Yamagata on Japan's exciting and super-efficient Shinkansen "bullet train" (about 2.5 hours).* Yamagata is a large prefecture along the Sea of Japan coast in the southern Tohoku Region. The area is known for its agricultural products (especially cherries - in season), hot springs, rural flair, and natural beauty. On arrival we travel by private coach to Mt Haguro. The first few days of our trip are weighted toward matters spiritual, with temple and shrine visits and an immersion in Japan's venerable culture and traditions. With this in mind, we'll visit Sanjin Gosai-den, the largest wooden building with a thatched roof in Japan. The present structure is from 1818 but its history reaches much further back in time. Looking at the impressive over two meter thick thatched roof, you don’t want to image the amount of labour that goes into repairing it. We continue to the vicinity of Mt. Haguro. People have been drawn to this spot because of its solemn atmosphere and the 1,400 year history since the founding of the shrine. Mount Haguro is considered sacred by followers of Japan's Shinto religion and of Shugendo, an ancient Japanese tradition of mountain worship whose practitioners are commonly known as Yamabushi ("those who lie in the mountains"). Taking their faith very seriously, they come every year on a pilgrimage to worship their deities. On top of Mount Haguro there are a number of temples and shrines, although this is said to be a shrine complex. It just shows that Buddhism and Shinto were entwined before the two religions were forcefully separated in Japan's Meiji Restoration, the events restored imperial rule to Japan in 1868 and that heralded the begin of a new era in Japan. There is a trail leading to the top of the mountain; however, it is common for visitors to be limited to walking only one way (down) in order to relieve congestion, which means that we will likely travel to the top by road and then offer the option to either walk or ride back down. Your Tour Leader will provide details prior to arrival so you can consider your options; however, we can advise that the trail is well-surfaced with 2,446 shallow steps and should take just over an hour to descend. We will see the centuries-old wooden pagoda and a nearby cedar tree that is said to be 1,400 years old -- there were once two of them and they were thought of as a "couple" but one was sadly destroyed by lighting). The remaining ancient cedar stands proud amongst its younger cousins that are "only" a few hundred years old. Walking in a forest of huge ancient cedars definitely makes one feel humble and small. Apropos of the nature of our surroundings, our night's 'Shukubo' temple accommodation reflects the solemnity of this special place. Originally the lodgings for the Buddhist monks, the story goes that Shukubo became available for ordinary pilgrims around 1,200 years ago during the Heian Period. From that time, there seemed to be Shukubo that was managed by persons other than Buddhist monks. About 400 years ago, when it became the Edo period, Shukubo became even more popular. Guests are encouraged to take part in temple activities and to learn about traditional temple life. Accommodations are spartan, but comfortable and atmospheric -- truly an unforgetable and quitessentially Japanese experience. * This morning our large luggage will be sent ahead to Nagano for us (included). We will have the bus for the day after we arrive in Yamagata, so your day bags can be left on board during our day's activities prior to arriving at our hotel later today. Overnight at Mt Haguro. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 5 Mt Haguro & Yamadera Temple - Matsushima This morning, after breakfast and morning prayers, we visit Yamadera Temple, famous for the haiku poem by Basho Matsuo. The temple grounds extend high up a steep mountainside from where there are great views down onto the valley. The temple was founded over a thousand years ago in 860 as a temple of the Tendai sect under the official name Risshakuji. Its popular name, Yamadera, literally means "mountain temple" in Japanese. We then travel by coach to Matsushima Bay. For hundreds of years, Matsushima Bay has been celebrated as one of Japan's three most scenic views alongside Miyajima and Amanohashidate. The bay is dotted by over 200 small islands covered by pine trees. On arrival we check-in to our traditional deluxe-class Ryokan style accommodation with time relax and enjoy our splendid surroundings and the amenities. Ryokan are Japanese style inns found throughout the country, especially in hot spring resorts. More than just a place to sleep, ryokan are an opportunity to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality, incorporating elements such as tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths and local cuisine. This evening you can enjoy the onsen (hot spring baths) and a traditional Japanese dinner. Overnight at Matsushima. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 6 Matsushima Bay - Sendai - Train to Nagano This morning we'll have a scenic cruise on Matsushima Bay. Afterward we'll visit Zuiganji Temple, one of the Tohoku Region's most famous and prominent Zen temples, well-known for its beautifully-gilded and painted sliding doors (fusuma). Zuiganji is a reflection of the natural beauty of Matsushima and, upon entering the temple grounds, the approach to the main hall proceeds along a long, straight path flanked on both sides by cedar trees. An alternate path detours off to the right of the entrance and by a number of caves that were used in the past for meditation, and today contain statues. We continue to Sendai from where we depart by Shinkansen for Nagano (3.5 hours). In 1998, the city hosted the Winter Olympic Games, and some former Olympic facilities can still be viewed around town. Historically, Nagano has been known for its ninja training schools. * We will be reunited with our large luggage today upon arrival. Overnight in Nagano. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 7 Nagano: Monkey Park & Obuse Today we'll travel out of town we'll visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, which offers visitors the unique experience of seeing wild Japanese macaques bathing in a natural hot spring. The park is located in the monkeys' natural habitat in the forests of the Jigokudani Valley. While it is never guaranteed that monkeys will be seen and seen bathing (they usually only bathe in cold weather), the forest walk to get to them (+/- 30 min each way) is pleasant, especially in the fall when the leaves are in colour. We'll also visit Obuse, a small town with a pretty town center. Hokusai, a renowned Edo Period (1603-1867) woodblock painter, who is best known for his ukiyo-e woodblock print, "The Great Wave off Kanagawa," spent the later years of his life in Obuse with his patron, a wealthy local merchant and art enthusiast. Several of the town's highlights are related to the artist and his patron, including the Hokusai Museum which we'll visit. Obuse is also well known for its seasonal produce, especially locally-grown chestnuts. Be sure to sample some of the chestnut confectionary treats available at shops throughout town. Overnight in Nagano. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 8 Nagano: Matsumoto, Wasabi Farm & Zenkoji Temple Today we have a full-day private coach day trip to Matsumoto. In Matsumoto we'll visit Matsumoto Castle,* the oldest and one of the most complete and beautiful among Japan's original castles (not a post-war reconstruction). It is a "hirajiro" -- a castle built on plains rather than on a hill or mountain. Matsumoto Castle is unique for having both a secondary donjon and a turret adjoined to its main keep. The castle structures, in combination with their characteristic black wainscoting, give off an air of grandeur and poise. With a shift of gears, our next stop is the Daio Wasabi Farm, one of Japan's largest wasabi farms with multiple large fields and a meticulously maintained network of small streams that constantly provides each wasabi plant with clear, flowing water from the Northern Alps. Only under such pristine conditions is wasabi cultivation possible. An idyllic scene of old-fashioned, wooden water wheels alongside the river can also be enjoyed from the walking trails. The water wheels were constructed here for the filming of Kurosawa Akira's "Dreams" in 1989 and have been left standing. A shop sells a dizzying array of wasabi products to take home with you -- be sure not to miss the video presentation about the farm (if you can't find it ask the staff as it doesn't really jump out at you!). Back in the city, we also visit Zenkoji Temple, founded in 642 when Yoshimitsu Honda enshrined a Buddhist image at the present site. Nagano City evolved as a temple town around Zenkoji, one of Japan's most popular temples. * We will have time to visit the castle's interior, though please be aware that to climb up into the castle involves removing your shoes and staircases that are very steep. Overnight in Nagano. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 9 Nagano - Train to Kanazawa: City Touring Today we travel by Shinkansen to Kanazawa (70 minutes).* On arrival we have a walking tour of Kanazawa City. During the Edo Period, Kanazawa served as the seat of the Maeda Clan, the second most powerful feudal clan after the Tokugawa in terms of rice production and feif size. Accordingly, Kanazawa grew to become a town of great cultural achievements, rivaling Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo). During World War II, Kanazawa was Japan's second largest city (after Kyoto) to escape destruction by air raids. Consequently, parts of the old castle town, such as the Nagamachi samurai district and Chaya entertainment districts, have survived in good condition. We'll have a walking tour of the Samurai District, a beautifully-preserved historic area that was once the residential district for the city’s samurai. It is a lovely area of canals and stone-flagged winding lanes that run between tile-topped earthern walls. Some of the former samurai houses and their gardens are also open for public viewing. We will visit the Nomura Residence, known for having one of the finest traditional residential gardens in the country. We also visit Kenroku-en garden, Kanazawa's unchallenged main attraction and one of Japan's "three best landscape gardens," and by many considered the most beautiful of them all. Opened to the public in 1871, Kenroku-en features a variety of trees, shrubs, moss, and water features, which provide the garden with a different look for each season. Finally we'll explore the Higashi-Chaya District. A chaya (teahouse) is an exclusive type of restaurant where guests are entertained by geisha who perform song and dance. During the Edo Period, chaya were found in designated entertainment districts, usually just outside the city limits. Of the three districts, the Higashi-Chaya is the largest and by far the most interesting. Two chaya, the Shima Teahouse and Kaikaro Teahouse, are open to the public. Other buildings along the central street now house cafes and shops. One of the shops, Hakuza, sells gold leaf products, a specialty of Kanazawa, and displays a tea ceremony room which is completely covered in gold leaf. * This morning our large luggage will be sent ahead to Kyoto for us (which is also a good thing due to the small size of hotel rooms in this city). Please pack a smaller bag for two nights -- we will be able to drop these bags at the hotel in Kanazawa before beginning our sightseeing. Overnight in Kanazawa. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 10 Kanazawa: Gokayama & Shirakawa Villages Today we have full-day sightseeing in and around Kanazawa. We will visit Shirakawa and Gokayama villages (both World Heritage Sites) where we will see the "Gassho" farmhouses. Gassho literally means that palms of hands are joined together in prayer. These are 3- or 4 story-wooden farmhouses with thick thatched roofs, some of which are almost 200 years old. These Gassho farmhouses are still occupied by families who still go about their daily lives in the village. We will visit a Gassho farmhouse, the observation deck, and the folk museum. We also enjoy a washi paper making experience nearby. Time-permitting we'll stop at the D.T. Suzuki Museum, a small museum commemorating the life and works of Suzuki Daisetz Teitaro (1870-1966), a prominent Buddhist philosopher. D.T. Suzuki was a prolific writer who was instrumental in introducing Japanese Zen philosophy to the West. Overnight in Kanazawa. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 11 Kanazawa - Train to Kyoto Today we board the Thunderbird Limited Express train to Kyoto (about 2 hours).* Kyoto vibrates with creative energy. For 1,000 years, skilled craftsmen, wise masters, and the nation's most promising fine artists have been lured here. The deep impress of culture and the refinement is indelible; it's in the soul of the city. A long line of Japanese emperors was enthroned here, and the city retains this regal bearing through myriad festivals and commemorative customs preserved from feudal times. In diminutive home workshops along cobblestone alleyways no wider than a footpath, lacquerware, cloisonne, damascene, kimono fabrics, pottery, porcelain, fans, dolls, embroideries, and bamboo ware are still expertly turned out by hand. Kyoto attracts a sophisticated crowd to its vibrant Noh and Kabuki theatres, while the last geisha finishing schools are found in the lantern-lit side streets of the Pontocho and Gion sections of the city. Thankfully, Kyoto's treasures were spared from bombing during WW II, when American scholars persuaded the military to leave this masterpiece of a city alone. Though Kyoto is now a thoroughly modern city, much of its spirit is intact, with over 200 Shinto shrines; 1,600 temples, 30 of which administer to the major sects of Buddhism throughout Japan; three Imperial palaces; nine major museums; and countless classic gardens. Upon arrival we'll visit the Nishiki Food Market, a pleasant but busy atmosphere that is inviting to those who want to explore the variety of culinary delights for which Kyoto is famous. Most shops specialize in a particular type of food, and almost everything sold at the market is locally produced and procured. We'll finish our day in the Gion District, a traditional entertainment district. Originally, the entertainment area developed here to service its many Gion Shrine pilgrims with food and drink. Later, as Kabuki drama became popular on the Gion's western edges, more sophisticated forms of entertainment were developed for the theater-goers, and so today Gion is known as Kyoto's most famous geisha district. * OUR LUGGAGE will be waiting for us on arrival in Kyoto. Overnight in Kyoto. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12 Kyoto: City Touring Today we have a full-day Kyoto city tour by private coach. We proceed to Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, one of Japan's most famous architectural and historical icons. We also visit Ryoan-ji, the famous raked gravel Zen Garden, for which the Zen Buddhists are renowned. The essential dichotomy and harmony of the universe, which lies at the heart of this belief system, is symbolized in these tranquil gardens. We then diverge from the well-beaten tourist path to visit Genkou-an Temple, the most well- known features of which are two windows in the main hall that look out onto a less orderly, but no less inspiring, garden of flowering trees and stone lanterns. One window is square, representing four human afflictions: life, old age, illness, and death. The other is round, representing Zen awakening. Turn away from these windows and walk over to the opposite wall -- just to the right of the center of the ceiling is a very clear footprint. While in Kyoto we'll enjoy a tea ceremony experience. The Tea ceremony is a fundamental part of Kyoto's aesthetic culture, and a tea session is a good introduction to its form: enjoying a tea sweet, followed by a delicious, freshly-whisked cup of matcha in the company of friends. Overnight in Kyoto. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 13 Kyoto: City Touring Today's half-day tour includes a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings. The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which stands at 233 meters and belongs to the shrine grounds. Fushimi Inari is the most important of several thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. We then visit a sake brewery. You’ll be steeped in the history of Japan's most famous drink and learn how sake is made, and then enjoy a sake tasting while an expert guide describes the ingredients and process that created each characteristic flavour. Afternoon free at leisure. This evening we enjoy a farewell dinner with a beautiful Maiko dance performance. Overnight in Kyoto. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 14 Departure Departure from Kyoto. DEPARTURE from Kyoto, which is served by Osaka's Itami Airport (for domestic flights connecting elsewhere in Japan before heading overseas), and Kansai Airport for international flights departing Osaka. ITTE IRASSHAI!! Included Meal(s): Breakfast

Inclusions Hotel breakfast and most dinners (mostly at local restaurants) are included daily. All transport, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary. We include luggage forwarding services on two train journeys (as per the tour itinerary); this service may be available elsewhere with your Tour Leader's assistance (payment can be made locally). Gratuities for restaurant staff, porters (when available), drivers, local guides. Services of a full-time Adventures Abroad Tour Leader; local guides at various locations.

Exclusions International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international (if applicable) air taxes, and any excursions referenced as 'optional'. Optional trip cancellation insurance (please refer to "Resources" tab for more info). PLEASE NOTE that at variance with our common policy on airport transfers for most tour arrival points, we do NOT include or pre-book arrival airport transfers in Tokyo, regardless of whether or not you book your air with us. We provide detailed information on your various options as part of your pre-trip information package.

Seasonality and Weather Our October/November date coincides with central Japan's mild autumn season, characterized by cool temperatures and moderate rainfall. This part of Japan enjoys a relatively mild climate and we shouldn't experience any "cold" weather per se (though Nagano will likely be close to cold), but one should be prepared for some chilly mornings and the possibility of showers. The extreme heat, humidity, and heavy rainfall of summer has given way to more comfortable travelling conditions. The main advantage of visiting at this time is the autumn colour, a particular delight in rural, forested areas, gardens, and temple grounds. This is also the season for "kiku," chrysanthemum bonsai trained into shields and rings, and even life-sized dolls constructed of the hardy fall flowers, filling outdoor stalls in October and November. Though exact timing can vary from year to year, our spring date should coincide with plum and cherry blossoms, a colourful and festive time all over Japan. This is also a comfortable time in Japan, with cool days and prior to the hot/sticky season that arrives in June.

Transport and Travel Conditions We rate this tour activity level '2' (for details please click on the 'About Us' -> 'Tour Styles'), though past travellers have indicated that the trip could qualify as a '2.5' (we reserve the '3' rating for our hiking tours) owing to its overall ambitious nature, our full days, and walking tours of towns/cities and sites, some of which are large. One very important consideration is the multiple train journeys on which one must be 100% independent with one's luggage. Japanese train stations are large and, though most feature escalators/elevators, one must be prepared to board/disembark trains with luggage, which you will also have to store on board. To make this easier, when possible, we send our larger bags ahead via overnight delivery (you will need to pack an overnight bag). We will also have short walks to and from dinners, some of which will be traditional Japanese settings that may require that you remove your shoes. There are also several visits—mostly temples/shrines—that also require that visitors remove their shoes. Our optional temple hike (2,500 steps!) at Mount Haguro is at a leisurely pace, and a vehicular option is available. Our visit to the snow monkey park involves an easy, pleasantly forested +/- 30 min walk (each way - slight incline). Hotels all feature elevators and porters are available to assist with luggage to/from rooms. Also pursuant to the 'immersive' and 'experiential' nature of this program, is our accommodation choices in some locations (see below) and our meal plan for the trip. Japan's culture is very much driven by presentation and aesthetics, and nowhere is this more strongly affected than its culinary traditions. Dinners at local restaurants not only allow you to fully experience every aspect of Japan's gastronomy, but also provides a unique and important insight into its cultural values. As such, it is important to have an open mind (and palate) as Western food will not be featured on any evening menu on this trip, nor will very specific food preferences be easily catered to. Many of our evening meals feature pre-booked menus, though your Tour Leader will have some flexibility to make adjustments on-the-go as s/he gets to know group members. Most hotel breakfasts will be more international with both Western food items and typical Japanese selections, possibly with the exception of our Ryokan and temple stays which will be primarily Japanese. We suggest that you delve into Japanese food prior to leaving home and practice up on chopsticks, as forks are virtually unknown in Japan!

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form .

Accommodation Our accommodation choices on this trip are extremely varied, and range from 3/4-star modern, international standard properties with en suite bath, to smaller, simpler lodging in smaller towns, and a one night stay in temple-style accommodation which is typically spartan, but comfortable and scrupulously clean. For this one night, your bed will come in the form of a futon which will be prepared for you on the floor during dinner. For this one night, private bath and toilet facilities will be shared (genders separated). Our 'ryokan' stay (Matsushima) features private bath/toilet in-room and Japanese style and decor but with Western beds. Single rooms are limited in number and likely smaller than twins. Please note that hotel rooms in Japan in general, especially in major cities, tend to be quite small. For full details on all hotels, please click the "Map & Hotels" tab on this page (please note that the hotels shown are meant as samples only and may not necessarily be confirmed for your chosen departure).

Staff and Support You will have a full-time Tour Leader managing all aspects of the trip from start to finish, and local guides who will join us in numerous locations. We will have local bus drivers in each location.

Group Size Maximum 18 (plus Tour Leader)

Regions visited: Far East Countries visited: Japan

*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.

The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.

Reservation Summary

Have Questions? Call us: 1-800-843-2678

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Tours to Japan

Japan is a diverse and alluring country, full of surprises at every turn. In true Japanese fashion, our tours combine the traditional and the modern. From exploring the grand temples and meeting a Geisha to taking a super-fast bullet train, our Japan vacations have it all.

Ways to explore Japan

Rail journeys, food and drink, walking and trekking, discover our japan tours.

From the ultramodern cityscape of Tokyo to the ancient temples of Kyoto, our  small group tours  to Japan will take you on an all-encompassing trip of discovery. Our  expert tour leaders  will show you the cultural highlights as well as some lesser-known hidden treasures. 

Get into the heart of Japanese culture with a stay in a Buddhist temple and family-run ryokan, observe snow monkey bathing in the hot springs of Jigokudani Onsen and whiz across the countryside on a bullet train to explore the city of Hiroshima. Or, for a Japan tour with a difference, go exploring on two wheels with our Japan cycling trips . Discover the coast of the Noto Peninsula, feel the salty breeze rush past as you pedal along Chirihama Beach and stay in traditional Japanese accommodation with futon mattresses and tatami-mat floors. 

Considering a trip to Japan but new to Explore? We've answered  some of the most-asked questions  about our small group tours. 

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Japan tour highlights

A country of vast contrasts, Japan’s facets offer something for every kind of traveler. Be wowed by the immense skyscrapers and blaring neon lights of always-bustling Tokyo, find serenity in the peaceful gardens of Geisha city Kyoto, look out at the perfectly conical tip of Mount Fuji, and unwind in the warm waters of a traditional hot spring.

From navigating bustling cities to taking time out in sacred temples, wandering around idyllic gardens or sampling the magnificent local dishes, our Japan vacations encompass the country’s most thrilling facets. Take a look at some of our favorite highlights of Japan:

Tokyo is a fabulous city for total cultural immersion: you may spend the morning strolling along the banks of the Sumida River or museum hopping, and in the afternoon spotting sumo wrestlers and shopping for swords and every flavor of chocolate bar under the sun. At night the city comes alive – after dark is when you’ll discover just how busy and cosmopolitan the city is. More than 25% of Japan’s total population lives within 50km of Tokyo’s center. However, dig a little deeper on our  Shogun Trail  tour and you’ll get to experience the ancient history of this teeming metropolis. Pay a visit to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji, the Hamarikyu Gardens – a great place for viewing the cherry blossoms in spring – and the Meiji Shrine, for your first sighting of a traditional torii gate.

Next on the list of our favorite places in Japan is the city of Kyoto, vastly different to Tokyo with its peaceful Zen gardens and charming little shops. Kyoto is the city of the elusive Geisha – you may even get to see some of the beautifully-dressed women as you walk along the quaint cobbled streets, nipping in and out of historic tea houses. Our  Simply Japan  trip includes two days to explore Kyoto, time to walk the path to Fushimi Inari Shrine through the thousands of red torii gates, sample weird and wonderful flavors in Nishiki Food Market, or visit a beautifully manicured bamboo grove. Many trips arrive in Kyoto by the famous bullet train, or  Shinkansen , offering another once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Since the catastrophic atomic bombing in 1945 Hiroshima has transformed into a welcoming and thriving city that is well worth a visit. Whilst the poignant memorial in the Peace Memorial Park reminds us of the tragic event, it also inspires with messages of hope that such horrors should never happen again. Another reason to visit is the nearby Miyajima Island, just off the coast of the city, where tame deer roam. As you arrive on the ferry you'll take in the famous view of the floating torii gate. Considered to be one of the most beautiful sights in Japan, these red gates appear to float on the water. Miyajima is included in the itinerary of our  Highlights of Japan  trip.   

Solo travel in Japan

If you’re looking to travel solo, our Japan vacations are the perfect place to start. Every one of our vacations has been designed to suit solo travelers, and though it depends on the exact tour that you choose, you’ll find that about half of our customers will also be traveling solo. Not only will you get to explore a fantastic new destination, you’ll also get to meet fellow travelers who share the same interests, while we take care of the arrangements.  

Best time to go to Japan

Japan is an all-year-round destination. The summer months tend to be hot and humid with a few rain showers, and the winters are cold and crisp with clear blue skies. 

The weather is at its best during the summer season from April to May, but this is also the busiest time to visit Japan and prices are higher. If you want to escape the crowds, book a trip from June to August - it will be hotter and wetter, but you’ll have more space to appreciate Japan’s wondrous sights. 

For a winter getaway with a difference, head to Japan from December to February. The days are usually crisp, cold and clear, and the Japanese Alps will be covered in a blanket of white snow. Travel in February to visit  Sapporo Snow Festival  and enjoy an ice-breaker cruise in the Sea of Okhotsk before spending time admiring the incredible snow sculptures at the annual Sapporo Snow Festival.

If you want to see Japan’s famous blossom in full bloom, book a trip in spring from late March until mid-April. Or, to see the vibrant Koyo autumn leaves, aim for a trip in the autumn months of October and November. 

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Simply Japan

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Travel from super-modern Tokyo to villages, castles and temples that remain unchanged from the times of the Shogun and Samurai. Stay in a Buddhist temple and a family-run ryokan, meet snow monkeys and tame deer, and experience the modern and the ancient in this invigorating country.

• Tokyo - Explore modern and ancient Tokyo, with the option to visit nearby Mount Fuji
• Kyoto - Experience traditional Japan with temples, Zen gardens and geishas
• Kanazawa - Explore the Samurai district and discover the secrets of the Ninja Temple

Included meals

Breakfast: 13

Explore Tour Leader

Accommodation

11 nights comfortable hotel

1 nights simple monastery

1 nights simple ryokan

Group Size:

Trip maximum 16 Explore Average 11

Itineraries on some departure dates may differ, please select the itinerary that you wish to explore.

Arrive in Tokyo, the ultra-modern capital of Japan.

For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6.30pm for the welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. If some of the group are arriving on later flights then the main introductory briefing will be conducted on the morning of day 2 with everybody present. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Tokyo at any time. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your Leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up.

If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita Airport (NRT). The city centre is around an hour away from Haneda Airport and an hour and a half from Narita. You will be met in the Arrivals Hall, and transferred to the start hotel by public shuttle bus or private vehicle. The shuttle bus may stop at other hotels, before dropping you at the joining hotel.

Accommodation:

Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa Hotel (or similar)

Grade: Comfortable Hotel

Single room available

Meals provided: none.

We explore Tokyo on foot and using the super-efficient metro system along with the locals. Starting in Asakusa district we discover Senso-ji Temple which deserves to be high on any explorer's list. The oldest temple in the city, it is entered through the imposing Thunder Gate, flanked on either side by massive fierce statues of the gods of wind and rain. Continuing in dramatic fashion, we attend the morning fire service at Fudo-do Temple. Here the esoteric Shingon sect perform a ceremony involving leaping flames and the chanting of sacred texts, accompanied by the deafening beat of huge taiko drums. The result is a truly atmospheric experience and an authentic insight into Japanese Buddhist culture.

At a convenient time in the day we will get our Japan Rail Passes validated in a nearby station. Please note that for late bookings, and people who have not provided their passport copy in time as requested, it will not be possible to issue a Japan Rail Pass and you will be provided with individual train tickets for the included journeys instead. The additional per person cost of approximately 110 GBP (subject to change) for issuing these individual tickets will be charged to you accordingly before departure. Please refer to the Visa and Passport Information section for more details which can be found in the Essential Information section under Trip Information.

After some free time for lunch, we visit Meiji Jingu - an important Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of the first Emperor and Empress of modern Japan at the end of Japan's feudal era. Its forested grounds offer a peaceful haven in this densely built-up city. Our final stop is Shibuya, known for one of the busiest crossings in the world Shibuya is a hub of up and coming fashion, technology and design in Tokyo with a variety of shops, museum and galleries to explore. The rest of the afternoon is left free and it is easy to return to Asakusa by metro or continue to the skyscraper district of Shinjuku.

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Today you are free to seek out the parts of Tokyo that you'd most like to experience, and there are plenty of exciting options to choose from such as the busy streets of trendy Harajuku district or quirky themed cafes in Akihabara where you can be served by vampires, butlers or fantasy characters. The Tokyo Skytree offers views over the whole city, you could take a cruise along the Sumida River or a walk through Hamarikyu Gardens.

For those interested in seeing Mount Fuji and Hakone National Park we suggest a day trip by local bus to Lake Kawaguchi - the most easily accessible of the five Fuji Lakes from Tokyo. A cable car and walking trails lead to viewpoints and there are also museums of interest. If more than six people are interested the Tour Leader will accompany. Located right at the base of Mount Fuji, the mountain views are dependent on weather which can change quickly and may be covered by clouds. Visibility tends to be best in early morning and late afternoons, and the summer months are hazier. Please note that in peak times (March-April and October-November) availability can be extremely limited or fully booked - refer to the optional activities section of the tour notes for alternatives you can pre-book (under Budgeting and packing, Trip Information).

Alternatively you can travel north to Nikko, again around two hours by train, and discover the park's great temples hidden among forests of giant cedar trees, great for autumnal colours. Japan's most lavishly decorated shrine, Toshogu, is located here and is well worth a visit. The park's landscape of lakes, waterfalls and hot springs is inhabited by wild monkeys and deer, and has a number of easy-to-follow hiking paths through the delightful scenery. Another option is the beachside town of Kamakura, just over an hour's train ride away from Tokyo. One of Japan's ancient capitals, there are many temples and shrines, and a massive bronze 'Great Buddha' statue which is almost 800 years old. The statue has outlived several buildings that were erected to house it and now stands out in the open with a serene gaze seemingly appraising the surrounding countryside. The town also has several long sandy beaches which are very popular with Tokyoites taking a day away from the city.

Whatever you decide to do today your Tour Leader will help you out with first hand advice and the finer details of what is best for the time of year and weather, where to go, what to do and how to get around.

A beautiful express train journey of just under three hours takes us north from Tokyo to the pretty town of Matsumoto, flanked on each side by the Japanese Alps. The town's 500 year-old castle is Japan's oldest, and one of its most elegant. Known as 'Crow Castle' due to its black, sombre appearance, it retains its original wooden interior which offers a very authentic atmosphere as we walk through its hallways and rooms. The design is fascinating, with a moon viewing pavilion, a hidden floor for the Samurai and various booby traps to aid its defence. After exploring the interior of the castle and its grounds we have the option to pay a visit to the nearby Ukiyo-e woodblock printing museum. Typically representing famous geisha, sumo wrestlers and kabuki dance-drama actors, the art form means 'paintings of the floating world' referring to the subjects' detachment from ordinary life.

We include the luggage forwarding service today to ship our main bags to Kanazawa. Please refer to the Trip Information; Budgeting and packing; Luggage on tour section for more information.

Tabino Hotel (or similar)

Travelling by express train and private bus, we make our way this morning to Jigokudani Onsen, home to Japan's famous snow monkeys. Here the indigenous macaques descend from the hills to bathe and play in the hot springs, a unique behaviour not found anywhere else in the world. Despite their wintry moniker, the monkeys can be observed in and around the pool throughout the year although sightings are more likely in colder months. Our walk to the spring takes 30 minutes along a pretty forest trail which is mostly flat with some steep stairs and narrow sections. Once at the spring we spend around an hour observing the monkeys before returning along the same path.

In the afternoon we make our way to Zenkoji Temple in Nagano. Founded in the 7th century, it is one of the earliest Buddhist temples in the country, and was established to house an image brought from India which was believed to lead all who saw it to a state of Nirvana. The image is said to have remained hidden somewhere in the temple since the year 654. After exploring the temple and meeting the monks we head over to the shukubo or temple lodgings. Originally created to accommodate pilgrims, they are furnished with tatami mats - a traditional floor coverings made from rice straw, futons and paper walls, giving us a very authentic Japanese experience for our overnight stay. The rooms are twins with shared toilet and bathing facilities.

Zenkoji Yakuo In (or similar)

Grade: Simple Monastery

We will wake at sunrise and make our way to the temple, wandering through the fragrant smoke of the temple's giant incense burner to purify us before entering. In the main hall we'll watch the monks performing their morning rituals, the mesmerising chanting of the ancient sutras echoing around us, before we receive a sacred blessing from the head monk of the temple.

Later this morning, we travel by express train (1.5hrs) to Kanazawa, a city that rivalled Kyoto and Tokyo in the 17th and 18th centuries when it was home to the powerful Maeda samurai clan. This afternoon we plan a wander around the atmospheric samurai district with its narrow lanes and earthen walls, learning about how the legendary warrior class lived. There is the option to visit Nomura Samurai House or discover the fabulous Kenrokuen Gardens, considered to be one of the most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan. The name means the 'Garden of the Six Sublimities' and was begun by the Maeda samurai clan in 1632, taking nearly 200 years to complete.

Hotel Torifito Kanazawa (or similar)

Today is a free day to make the most of Kanazawa. As the town was not targeted during World War II, much of Kanazawa consists of old buildings and gives a sense of what Japan was like in the 19th century. There is plenty to do and see, and a great option is to spend some time wandering around the colourful stalls at the town's Omicho market, where fresh fish and crab are brought daily from the Sea of Japan along with vegetables from the surrounding countryside. A great dish to try here, particular to the region, is chirashi-zushi, which consists of pieces of sushi piled on the top of rice and often garnished with shredded egg. You can also visit a 'chaya', or teahouse in the the Higashi Chaya or Kazuemachi Chaya areas. While Kanazawa's surviving geisha establishments remain off limits to tourists, a number of elegant tea houses are open to the public - sadly without the presence of a geisha though! Another highlight is the Myoryuji Temple, commonly known as the 'Ninja Temple' due to its ingenious defensive devices which include secret rooms, hidden tunnels, traps, and a labyrinth of corridors and staircases.

This morning we take the local train to Takayama, a city that retains an authentic, traditional feel like few others in Japan. During feudal times the city was a source of highly-skilled carpenters and therefore controlled directly by the shogun, leading to a thriving and prosperous trading community. The narrow streets of the Sanmachi Suji district are lined with dark wooden merchants' houses, many of which are 300 to 400 years old. There are several traditional sake distilleries in the old town and we'll try some of the city's famous brew, considered to be among the best in Japan due to the region's pure mountain water and cold winter months. On the outskirts of the town is the fascinating Hida No Sato thatched roof village. This open air museum is made of original houses from the Edo period (1603 to 1867), and if you choose to visit you will gain an insight into the rural life of the region during this period. Alternatively you can spend the day exploring more of the town.

This evening is spent near to Takayama in a family run minshuku - usually found in the countryside, they offer a very traditional Japanese experience, sleeping in twin rooms with tatami mats, futon beds, shared bathroom and bathing facilities. The traditional food is part of the experience and we include a traditional Japanese meal this evening.

We include the luggage forwarding service today to ship our main bags to Hiroshima.

Minshuku Iwatakan . (or similar)

Grade: Simple Ryokan

Single Room Unavailable

Meals provided: breakfast & dinner.

Two wonderful train journeys will take us to Hiroshima this morning. The first is a picturesque route that follows an icy blue Hida River past shrines, bamboo groves and traditional fishermen before arriving in Nagoya. Here we change to the famous Shinkansen bullet train, covering the 400 kms to Hiroshima in around two and a half hours, travelling at speeds of up to 320 kmh and arriving early afternoon.

Largely destroyed on 6th August 1945, when it was the target of the first atomic bomb to be used in wartime, Hiroshima has literally risen from the ashes, and is now a thriving, friendly city. We visit the moving Peace Memorial Park and museum on the site of the 1945 A-bomb hypocentre. Whilst serving as poignant reminders of the nuclear holocaust, their over-whelming message is that such horrors should never occur again.

In the evening we can try an okonomiyaki meal, a type of savoury pancake which is stuffed and cooked on a hot plate in front of the diner. The dish is particularly famous in Hiroshima where a local variation sees the ingredients layered rather than mixed.

Daiwa Roynet Hiroshima (or similar)

After breakfast this morning we take a small ferry to Miyajima, just off the coast of Hiroshima. This tiny island has a very relaxed feel which is enhanced by the deer that roam freely through the streets. As we arrive we get a great view of the floating torii gate. Considered to be one of the most beautiful sights in Japan, the red gate appears to float on the water at high tide with the hills of the island forming a spectacular backdrop.

For those who are keen, there is a 1.5 to 2 hour hike to the top of Mt. Misen for views out across the Inland Sea and a chance of seeing the monkeys that live on the mountain. For those not wanting to walk, you have the option of a cable car that you can up or down or both. The name of the island translates as 'shrine island' and we will visit one of the most important, the Buddhist Daisho-in Temple where we can climb the steps to the temple and spin the prayer wheels, believed to bestow the same blessing as actually reading the texts. There is also the opportunity to take in the 16th century Shinto Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is built over the sea and has a stage where key events in Shinto mythology are enacted. After exploring the island we take the ferry back to Hiroshima.

After breakfast we make our way by public tram back to the train station for the journey to Kyoto, which takes around two hours by bullet train. The imperial capital for more than 1000 years has more than 2000 temples and shrines, many set in perfectly manicured landscaped, tranquil gardens.

We will start exploring this fabulous city this afternoon with a visit to Nijo Castle. Built in 1603 as a Shogun palace, it is a great example of the sumptuous setting in which the Shogun would have held audiences with his samurai warriors. The extensive gardens and gates are impressive, but the real ingenuity of the castle are the nightingale floors, so called because they are designed to make a chirping noise when walked upon, thus making it impossible to sneak up on the castle's inhabitants.

We include the luggage forwarding service today to ship our main bags to Osaka.

Via Inn Kyoto Hachijo Guchi (or similar)

Getting around Kyoto is easy and there is a lot you can explore today. A good option is an early morning visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, beating the crowds to walk the path through the thousands of red torii gates that snake up the hillside.

A great place for lunch is the Nishiki Food Market where you can see, and try, an array of exotic and delicious foods such as octopus stuffed with quail eggs, green tea popcorn, cooked eel and matcha tea ice cream. You may also like to walk the Philosopher's Path, taking in the Silver Pavillion, and the Eikando and Nanzenji temples. Your Explore Leader will help you to make the most of the day, and whatever you choose to do, you'll find the city's public transport typically efficient and easy to navigate.

We have another morning to explore Kyoto before travelling to Osaka. An early morning visit to Kiyomizu Temple (Pure Water Temple) is a great idea, especially when followed by the pleasant walk along the cobblestone streets to Kodaiji. Here you can see a perfectly groomed towering bamboo grove, a Zen rock garden, and a pair of historic tea houses. Another option is to take the train to Arashiyama and walk along the Oi River to visit the UNESCO World Heritage designated Zen Tenryuji Temple.

Leaving Kyoto, we take the local train to Osaka, arriving in the late afternoon. We'll take a walk around the Namba area, one of Osaka's most vibrant and interesting districts. Miles of covered arcades criss-crossed by canals and rivers open up to back streets filled with history and small shops. For those wanting something different your Explore Leader can show you how to get to towering Osaka Castle, or the impressive Umeda Sky Building for unobstructed 360 degree views of the whole city. If you prefer to have more time to Explore Osaka please speak with your Tour Leader as it will be possible to travel earlier in the day by yourself, with your own luggage that you can deposit in the Osaka accommodation as an early check in is unlikely.

During our last night out in Japan we can try Osaka's most-loved snack, octopus balls.

Shin-Osaka Washington Hotel Plaza (or similar)

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Osaka. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel, so you can head out for some last minute shopping or sightseeing.

Transfers to the airport will be by train or shared shuttle bus, your leader will provide tickets locally and advise on the best train or bus time to meet your flight, and you will travel unescorted. You will be required to walk a short distance from the hotel to the train station or bus collection point. If you would like to receive tickets for this transfer today, you need to depart from Kansai International Airport (KIX) which is approximately one hour by train, or Osaka International Airport (ITM) which takes around an hour by shuttle bus.

Is this the tour for you?

• This trip involves a lot of walking so please bring comfortable walking shoes. City tours and site visits are conducted mainly on foot. Also when making our way around the country we walk from our accommodation to the local train or metro station at either end so, while the hotels are chosen for their convenient location, this does add to the daily step count.

Travel Expert Diaries

A moment in japan.

"They say Japan is the 'most missed' country, and I couldn't agree more. I've wanted to go to Japan for such a long time but had no idea where to start. Joining Explore on a small group adventure solved my problems. I went from culture shock, eating microwave ramen in our Tokyo hotel room, to scaling hidden stairs to secret restaurants on the 7th floor with the companionship of our group and guide.

I arrived in time for cherry blossom season, which I really thought was just overrated by Westerners. However, as we walked through Goji Park, we couldn't see the grass for all the hundreds of people picnicking under the blossoms, demonstrating that this isn't just 'hype'; it's a pure Japanese tradition we could partake in.

Another breathtaking moment was walking around Kanazawa on day 6 in the rain under the safety of the infamous clear umbrellas. As a Brit, I never thought I'd appreciate the rain, but visiting the beautiful moss and rock garden at the Samurai House changed that.

I can't wait to head back again, spend some more time in Osaka, and maybe join Explore's Japan Sapporo   Snow Festival departure one year to discover more of Northern Japan." Amy - Performance Marketing Executive

View incredible snow sculptures in North Japan

Experience Japan's highlights, including its delicious cuisine

Trip information

Japan's climate is mostly temperate, with five distinct seasons. Summer is from June to September with temperatures reaching 30°c, although it can vary from warm to very hot after mid-July with temperatures in the mid-30s. July and August can be very hot and humid. Spring and Autumn are mild throughout Japan. Winter, October to April, is cold with snowfall. The main rainy season is June. Japan can be prone to short, tropical cyclones in August to October. October / November although cooler is a great time to see the Autumn colours. For trips that visit the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Onsen, you're very likely to see them all year around, aside from in October/November when there is enough food in the forest to prevent them coming down to the baths. You may still see some at this time but not in the numbers found during the rest of the year.

Time difference to GMT

Buddhism, Christian and Shinto

Optional activities The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.

This trip is designed with free time in several locations so that you are able to take advantage of the huge variety of things to see and do. The list below provides an idea of approximate costs of some of the most popular activities. Please note that you will not be able to do all of the activities listed, and you may choose to do something not included. For budgeting purposes it is best to assume that you are likely to want to take part in one or two activities per area. Public transport is incredibly easy to use in Japan with signs in English and, on main tourist routes, announcements in English too. Your Tour Leader will provide very detailed instructions to ensure you get to do and see what you want to in your free time. Tokyo - return train to Nikko approx. £30, entrance fee approx. £7; trains to and from Kamakura approx. £14; Tokyo Sky Tree approx. £14; water bus from Asakusa to Hamarikyu Gardens approx. £6.50. Mount Fuji day trip Local bus to Lake Kawaguchi/Mt Fuji with cable car approx £50-65 per person (for 6 pax and more Tour Leader will accompany and their transport costs split between group). PLEASE NOTE - in Peak times in March-April and October-November late availability can be a problem so, if this trip is of particular importance to you, we highly recommend that you book your tickets in advance to avoid possible disappointment. Please visit this weblink for tickets (approx. £120 per person): https://www.sunrise-tours.jp/en/ https://www.sunrise-tours.jp/en/plan/list#area-4 Matsumoto - Ukiyo-e woodblock printing museum entrance fee approx. £6.50, transport to and from the museum approx. £2 Kanazawa - One day bus pass to travel around the whole city approx. £4; Kenrokuen Gardens entrance fee approx. £2, entrance to Seisonkaku Villa in Kenrokuen Gardens approx. £4; Nomura Samurai House and Gardens entrance approx. £3; 21st Century Museum entrance approx. £6.50 (temporarily closed following the January 1st 2024 earthquake); Myoryuji 'Ninja' Temple entrance approx. £6.50 (requires advance booking that can be arranged by your Explore Leader); Shima Tea House in Geisha District entrance approx. £3, Nomura Samurai House approx. £3. Takayama - Hida no Sato thatched roof village approx. £7 for transport and entrance Miyajima Island - Itsukushima Shrine, approx. £2 entrance fee, cable car to the top of Mt Misen approx.£7 one way and £12 return Kyoto - One day bus pass to travel around the whole city approx. £4.00; Silver Pavilion approx. £3.50; Eikando approx. £4.00; Nanzenin temple at Nanzenji £3.50; Tenryuji - £3.50; Return train to Arashiyama approx. £4; Fushimi Inari Shrine entrance free. Osaka - Entrance to Castle approx. £4; Entrance to Umeda Sky Building Observatory approx. £6.50

Rain gear is essential all year. In fact, in Japan it is the norm to carry an umbrella, which is much preferred over wearing a wet rain jacket. You will need warm clothing from October through until April when temperatures drop, especially at night. From December to February the temperature is around 5 to 10 degrees in the day, and can approach freezing on some nights so bring extra layers if you are travelling at this time.

Comfortable shoes, and sandals for relaxing. Shoes that are easy to put on and take off are recommended for visiting temples and for your stay in a ryokan.

Luggage: On tour

You should take one main piece of baggage and a daypack. Your main luggage won't always accompany you, being forwarded on day 4 from Tokyo to Kanazawa, on day 8 from Kanazawa to Hiroshima and then from Hiroshima on day 11 to the final destination at Osaka. Your daypack should therefore have sufficient space for 2 consecutive nights in Matsumoto and Zenkoji Temple, for 1 night in Takayama and a 2 night stay in Kyoto. The reason we include this luggage forwarding service is to avoid being encumbered on the train journeys, where you will be responsible for your luggage, and this will involve train connections where you will need to change platforms in stations where there are no lifts or escalators and with a limited connection time. It is not obligatory; should you wish to keep your main bag with you throughout the trip please let the Tour Leader know upon arrival or at time of booking, and in this case we strongly recommend either a compact suitcase with wheels or a good quality rucksack, as well as packing relatively light so you can easily move your luggage from point to point and up and down stairs. Hotels in Japan frequently have excellent self-service laundry facilities with convenient washer driers that dispense detergent and softener so it is easy to travel light and wash your clothes as you go along. Japan's rail network has a policy that requires passengers with oversized baggage to reserve a specific seat in an oversized baggage area. This relates to baggage with overall dimensions of over 160cm (taken by adding the height+width+depth measurements). These overall dimensions are around the same for which oversized baggage fees are charged on international airlines, so it's unlikely that you will be bringing a suitcase of this size. However, it is worth checking the dimensions and then repacking with a smaller case if necessary. Due to the complexities of booking these seats, if you arrive with an oversized bag and wish to travel with this throughout the trip, our team in Japan will be required to ship the luggage from one place to the next from the beginning to the end of the tour, at an additional cost that you will be required to pay on tour.

Bring a water bottle to save on purchase of plastic bottles and a small torch. Hairdryers are provided at all the hotels.

Food and drink The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.

Foreign exchange, transport information.

Bus, Ferry, Train

Accommodation notes

In Nagano and Takayama we stay in traditional Japanese style accommodation. The rooms are twins with traditional tatami-mat (woven soft 'igusa' straw) flooring and futons to sleep on. Generally the rooms are simply decorated with a low 'kotatsu' table to sit around, a scroll or picture in an alcove and a Japanese tea set. The two futons are brought out at night. Shoes are removed in the entrance way to the room and the accommodation has shared toilets and traditional same sex communal baths. The communal shower in the bathing area is used to cleanse before a relaxing soak. While clean and comfortable, hotel rooms and ensuite bathrooms in Japan are often much smaller than in other destinations. This is due to the pressure on space in high density urban areas coupled with Japanese expectations about size of living spaces. It is unlikely that you will be able to keep your main luggage open at all times especially when sharing the room. For this reason and the fact we use a lot of public transport, you may consider packing light. See Luggage information also. Hotels in Japan frequently have excellent self-service laundry facilities with convenient washer driers that dispense detergent and softener so it is possible to travel light and wash your clothes as you go along.

Food and drink

Food in Japan is of paramount importance culturally and is often a highlight for those visitors interested in different cuisines. Options for vegetarians are limited as fish and seafood plays an important part in local cuisine and many vegetable dishes are cooked in fish broth. In Takayama we include a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner. For people with severe allergies please note that it will be impossible to cater without risk of cross contamination, depending on the specific allergy, as the meal is prepared by one chef in a limited kitchen for all guests staying at the guesthouse. You should always advise us of any allergies but in this case please enquire at time of booking or prior to travel to see what will be possible. For others with allergies and preferences in their diet please note that we will try to accommodate but, while the meal will be plentiful, you may be offered slightly less choice than others.

Can you drink the water?  It is generally possible to drink the local tap water, therefore to reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles we recommend you bring a refillable water bottle with you. Your leader will advise you on refill points each day. 

Government Travel Safety Advice

Under 18 immigration guidance.

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information. Booking Conditions  

Visa and Passport Information

British passport holder do not require visa to enter Japan for tourism purposes. All visa related issues for other nationalities should be confirmed with the relevant Embassy prior to departure. Japan Rail Pass - A clear copy, either as a scanned photocopy or photo, of your main passport photo page is required as soon as possible, please send this to [email protected]. Please ensure that all the information is clearly visible with none of the edges missing. This is required by our local agent to issue your Japan Rail Pass and is required no later than 6 weeks prior to travel. Explore will request this from you approximately 8 weeks prior to departure. If your passport copy is not received on time this will mean we cannot issue you a Japan Rail Pass. The cut off for receiving the scanned copy of your passport is 45 days before departure. If you fail to send it to us in time, you will be charged an additional per person cost of approximately 110 GBP (subject to change), to cover the additional costs of issuing individual tickets in place of the rail pass. In this case you will be issued individual rail tickets for the included journeys and you will not have the benefit of a Japan Rail Pass, which enables you to travel effectively for free on local trains and the Tokyo Monorail in your free time while the pass is valid. Similarly for late bookings it will not be possible to issue a Japan Rail Pass if the cut off date has already passed, and you will be issued single tickets instead, and there will also be an additional cost of 110 GBP per person for such late bookings. Although not required, by registering on the visit Japan Web website, travellers are able fill out the Disembarkation Form and Custom Declaration Form in advance. By filling out these forms online, two QR codes will be produced that can be shown during entry procedures into Japan. This may help you proceed through customs and control quicker. As this step is not required, travellers can instead fill out physical paper forms upon arrival as well. More information can be found here: https://www.digital.go.jp/enervices/visit_japan_web-en/

If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846 . It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.  

Booking conditions

Minimum age restrictions, your safety and enjoyment on tour, your tour leader, find out more about trip transfer terms and conditions before you book. booking a land only package with explore.

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information.  You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.

Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both. The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.   For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom. Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Flight information.

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory. We recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis and polio. The use or possession of Vicks inhalers and some other common prescription and over-the-counter medicines (e.g. for allergies and sinus problems or even certain mild painkillers, such as those containing certain levels of codeine) are banned under Japan's strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law. Customs officials may not be sympathetic if you claim ignorance about these medicines. If in any doubt about customs procedures for such items, you should check with the nearest Japanese Embassy before visiting Japan. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Why book this trip

Dates, prices and booking, add a flight with explore.

• Full Explore refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
• Carbon neutral flights – Gold Standard offsetting included
• Rearranged flights and transfers in the event of delays, missed connections, or cancellations (including accommodation overseas)
• ATOL protected
• No surcharge guarantee

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So group travel is not really my thing but I had the MOST WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE trying a group tour. This trip set a very high standard. The accommodation were clean and facilties were new. the itinerary was filled with all.the top attractions and our group leader Jordan was top notch he really went above and beyond please travel with Intro you won't regret it

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Our family had a great time and we see many places in Japan in very short 7 days. We enjoyed Japanese foods and couture. We stayed in good and very convenient hotels that close to all shops. We had a few tour guides and they are very nice and knowledgeable and very helpful. Nadia, David Solanes and Pablo are doing wonderful jobs, although we are the only 3 of English speakers on this tour, they tried to explain as much and explain everything clearly. Especially David Solanes is full of energy and funny personality, he shows us that very much of Japan couture, movie and music etc. and guides us for the restaurants and places near hotel, he is very knowledgeable and very helpful. Thank you for the good time in Japan.

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This was a fantastic 14 day tour of Japan which I would wholly recommend. The amount of activities we managed to fit into the time was incredible, the accommodation was good and the ratio of free time to group time was right. We saw so much and I really don’t feel like there is anything big that we missed. Alyssa was a fantastic guide, genuinely. She kept us on time, was knowledgable, friendly and really easy to get along with! The trip would not have been as good without her, I know that. PS this trip is fast paced and you walk a lot so be ready for that - but if you have a reasonable level of walking fitness and are ready to go explore all that Japan has to offer for a great price, don’t hesitate to book this tour.

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I loved this tour and I would book it again! You get a perfect overview of nice places in Japan, with a perfect mix between traditional Japanese and modern culture. Everything was nicely planned and organized by our amazing guide, resulting in no worries and no stress during the trip. The hotels, the transportation, the food...everything was great. I especially liked the additionally planned activities/experiences, such as the chopstick gold leaf experience or the meeting with the Kembu Masters. Also the size of the group (10 persons) was a very good fit.

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The tour was amazing and blew away my expectations. This tour gives you everything from enjoying the neon cities of Tokyo and Osaka to the peaceful quiet towns of Takayama. This tour covered a lot of Japan and if you want to the most in Japan this tour does it. I can't express how much fun I had and our tour guide Holly just made it more fun also. I would recommend this trip to anyone as it was one of my best trips of my life.

Accommodation and travel were both great; took a lot of the stress out of the trip. The group leader was also very helpful and friendly; always had the best recommendations for food and things to do in your free time. The experiences were great, especially the one’s lead by specific guides who were so nice and knowledgeable. The route was good although I think a less time in Nagano would’ve worked better and an extra night either in Osaka or Hakone (so another chance to see Mount Fuji if weather is bad one of the days like it was for us). I liked that we could do all the experiences, they weren’t weather dependent like the pirate ship in Hakone. A couple of minor things I would say, one would be the breakfasts which were fine but not hugely great for people with dietary requirements. As was the lunch options on some of the travel days; only having convenience store food as “lunch” was hard especially when it was on consecutive days. Again, this was also harder for people with dietary requirements as veggie/vegan food was few and far between. Finally, I think the tour dates themselves are a little bit misleading - it’s a 13 day tour but the first and last day are arrival/travel days so how they count is quite misleading when you don’t do anything; really it’s an 11 day tour.

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