cosmos tour of japan

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A world beyond. Hassle-free planning, regional Tour Directors & Local Guides, Handpicked hotels and inclusions, seamless transportation, VIP access, and rare Local Favourites that go beyond the guidebook. 

Adventure is knocking. Turn “never thought I would” into “glad I did” with a budget-friendly tour that includes all the essentials plus a great mix of included excursions and free time. 

Cruising Elevated. Cruise on Suite Ships with the widest stateroom views from your window-facing bed. Relaxed luxury flows throughout the ship in every detail plus personalise with Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions.

Discover Tours

Ways to travel, trip planning, the cosmos difference, europe and britain, north america, south america, africa and middle east, australia and new zealand.

• Central & Eastern Europe
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• Western Canada
• Eastern Canada
• United States
• Western United States
• Eastern United States
• Southern United States
• South East Asia
• Israel and Jordan
• Kenya and Tanzania
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Explore our Travel Styles

Tour Styles

Go off-the-beaten-path in Europe and North America

Hand-pick your travelling party on a European Private Tour

Experience some of the world's best train journeys

Explore the world with tours of only 20-24 guests

Combine land and sea on a cruise and tour holiday

Tour Themes

Feel rejuvenated and renewed on a Cosmos Faith-based tour

The world's within reach with these value-based tours

Discover some of North America's biggest festivals and events

Taste your way through favourite foodie hotspots

Experience it all on a multi-country tour of Europe

Cosmos makes it easy for solo travellers to see the world

Visit America's most picturesque National Parks

Our Current Tour Deals

Save up to $820 per couple on select 2024 tours in April!

Earn Qantas Points on a Cosmos tour!

Book a second tour and save $100 per couple*

Pay no single supplement on select tours*

Before You Book

• Book with Confidence
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• Welcome Back Credit
• Flights & Transfers

Before You Travel

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Qantas Frequent Flyer
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Meet Cosmos

Awaken your inner explorer with Cosmos

Why true travellers tour

Travel in style on a Cosmos tour

Lighting the path to a better tomorrow

Helping UNICEF Australia help the world

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Join the Globus family of brands team

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Classic Japan: Land Of The Rising Sun

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APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Classic Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

• Fully Guided
• Coach / Bus

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 TOKYO, JAPAN
• Day 2 TOKYO
• Day 3 TOKYO
• Day 4 TOKYO–MOUNT FUJI AREA
• Day 5 MOUNT FUJI AREA–OSAKA
• Day 6 OSAKA
• Day 7 OSAKA–OKAYAMA–KURASHIKI–HIROSHIMA
• Day 8 HIROSHIMA
• Day 9 HIROSHIMA–BIZEN–HIMEJI–KYOTO
• Day 10 KYOTO
• Day 11 KYOTO
• Day 12 KYOTO

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Sustainability initiatives.

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Cosmos 4.9
• Anonymous · 26th October 2023 Great exposure to a totally unfamiliar culture. Review collected by Cosmos
• Anonymous · 24th October 2023 The Go app was very helpful. The tour guide K Ono was first class Review collected by Cosmos
• Anonymous · 24th October 2023 The whole trip was perfectly managed and the Cosmos Go App was so helpful Review collected by Cosmos

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• September 2024
• October 2024
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• Monday 6 May, 2024 Friday 17 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,889 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Monday 13 May, 2024 Friday 24 May, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,889 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Monday 27 May, 2024 Friday 7 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,889 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Monday 10 Jun, 2024 Friday 21 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,889 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Monday 24 Jun, 2024 Friday 5 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,889 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 4 Other Unavailable Departures
• Get Instant Confirmation Monday 8 Jul, 2024 Friday 19 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,889 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Monday 16 Sep, 2024 Friday 27 Sep, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,889 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Monday 23 Sep, 2024 Friday 4 Oct, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,889 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Monday 30 Sep, 2024 Friday 11 Oct, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,889 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Monday 7 Oct, 2024 Friday 18 Oct, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,889 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Monday 14 Oct, 2024 Friday 25 Oct, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €3,889 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 2 Other Unavailable Departures
• Get Instant Confirmation Monday 21 Oct, 2024 Friday 1 Nov, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €3,889 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Monday 24 Mar, 2025 Friday 4 Apr, 2025 English Multiple Room Types €4,224 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

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Good to Know

• Currency ¥ Yen Japan

As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Japan. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Japan. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for Japan. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 18th June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 18th June 2024, a minimum payment of €250 is required to confirm your booking with Cosmos. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 50 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Cosmos will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Cosmos" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Click Quote for a Cosmos Tour Date for our low price tour quote

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• Contact an Expert
• Globus family of brands

A world beyond. Hassle-free planning, regional Tour Directors & Local Guides, Handpicked hotels and inclusions, seamless transportation, VIP access, and rare Local Favourites that go beyond the guidebook. 

Adventure is knocking. Turn “never thought I would” into “glad I did” with a budget-friendly tour that includes all the essentials plus a great mix of included excursions and free time. 

Cruising Elevated. Cruise on Suite Ships with the widest stateroom views from your window-facing bed. Relaxed luxury flows throughout the ship in every detail plus personalise with Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions.

Discover Tours

Ways to travel, trip planning, the cosmos difference, europe and britain, north america, south america, africa and middle east, australia and new zealand.

• Central & Eastern Europe
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• Western Canada
• Eastern Canada
• United States
• Western United States
• Eastern United States
• Southern United States
• South East Asia
• Israel and Jordan
• Kenya and Tanzania
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Explore our Travel Styles

Tour Styles

Go off-the-beaten-path in Europe and North America

Hand-pick your travelling party on a European Private Tour

Experience some of the world's best train journeys

Explore the world with tours of only 20-24 guests

Combine land and sea on a cruise and tour holiday

Tour Themes

Feel rejuvenated and renewed on a Cosmos Faith-based tour

The world's within reach with these value-based tours

Discover some of North America's biggest festivals and events

Taste your way through favourite foodie hotspots

Experience it all on a multi-country tour of Europe

Cosmos makes it easy for solo travellers to see the world

Visit America's most picturesque National Parks

Our Current Tour Deals

Save up to $820 per couple on select 2024 tours in April!

Earn Qantas Points on a Cosmos tour!

Book a second tour and save $100 per couple*

Pay no single supplement on select tours*

Before You Book

• Book with Confidence
• Health & Safety
• Welcome Back Credit
• Flights & Transfers

Before You Travel

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Qantas Frequent Flyer
• Visa Services

Meet Cosmos

Awaken your inner explorer with Cosmos

Why true travellers tour

Travel in style on a Cosmos tour

Lighting the path to a better tomorrow

Helping UNICEF Australia help the world

Meet the rest of the family

Join the Globus family of brands team

Get Inspired

View our e-brochure

Travel stories to feed the soul

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Start planning your next holiday

• Globus Family of Brands
• Agent portal

Classic Japan: Land Of The Rising Sun

• Personalise Your Trip
• Tour Director

Next Section

Call us: 1.800.528.9300 Low Price Guarantee

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Classic Japan: Land of the Rising Sun 2024

12 day tour from tokyo to osaka, tour description:.

This Japan tour is perfect for value-minded travel lovers who enjoy history, beautiful settings, and fascinating architecture. You’ll start in Tokyo, end in Kyoto, and overnight along the way in the Mount Fuji area, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Highlights of this tour through Japan are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites you’ll visit. Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, has long been worshipped as a sacred mountain; you’ll enjoy views of majestic Mount Fiji and Lake Kawaguchi during your cable-car ride (weather permitting). In Hiroshima, visit Itsukushima Shrine, built over water and known for its iconic floating Torii gate and Peace Memorial Park to see the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, the only remaining structure from the first atomic bomb in 1945. In Kyoto, visit the Temple of the Gold Pavilion, a Buddhist temple covered in beautiful gold leaf and participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. In addition to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, famous shrines, and other historic sites, this tour includes visits to two of Japan’s premier gardens dating back to the 1600’s. Walk the tranquil Koraku-En to enjoy the ponds, bridges, waterfalls, and tea house and the Shinjuku Gyoen or “Imperial Garden,” formerly a feudal lord’s property and home to one thousand cherry blossom trees. You’ll enjoy a local lunch and taste the “Japanese pizza” of Osaka, the legendary okonomiyaki dish. Plus, you’ll ride on the famous bullet train or shinkansen. History, scenery, culture, cuisine, and fun experiences…this Japan vacation has it all!

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Request a Galapagos Quote for 11/1/2020 – Galapagos Inner Loop – 7 Nights Roundtrip Baltra | From $8,512

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All fares are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy, and reflect promotional savings, are for new bookings only, are subject to availability, and must be booked by September 1, 2019. Promotional savings in categories F-B on the December 21st sailing and categories C-D on the December 27th sailing only. *Included roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco is based on availability in class of service. Offer may be combined with applicable 3rd guest in stateroom offer but may not be combinable with other offers. Port, security, and handling charges of $149 per person are additional. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Call for details. Ship’s registry: Bahamas.

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

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Japan Tour Packages

Classic japan: land of the rising sun (2510), 12 day tour from tokyo to osaka.

This Japan tour is perfect for value-minded travel lovers who enjoy history, beautiful settings, and fascinating architecture. You’ll start in Tokyo, end in... Read More

ACTIVE PACE

Starting at: $999 $4059

Starting at: $999 $4409

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First Class Touring by Globus

At Globus, we create first-class escorted tours with just the right balance of included features & free time. We’re all about hidden gems, not hidden charges. We throw in more visits, toss in more experiences & include more sightseeing.

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Avalon Waterways sets the standard in river and small-ship cruising by offering you the best views in river cruising. Avalon has the newest fleet, the most included shore excursions, the widest range of choices and extraordinary itineraries.

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Monograms is ideal for travelers who prefer just the right amount of support. It offers all-in-one packages that cover all the details and the services of a professional Local Host. Monograms takes care of the details so you just sit back & enjoy.

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We can make planning your tour easy – all you need to do is complete the information below. A Cosmos specialist will get in touch with you to provide you a quote on your escorted tour. You can also call us at 1800 425 3575 to speak to someone right away.

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The Scoop: What to Know About Cosmos

Globus-owned cosmos focuses on affordability and experiences around the world..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

• Considering booking a tour with Cosmos? I’ve distilled everything you need to know before booking into one scannable page.
• I’ve verified all the details to make sure the information I’m sharing is spot on and updated for 2024.

If you know the tour company Globus , you already have a baseline for understanding Cosmos , since it’s the budget-traveler-minded arm of Globus. Like its sister company, Cosmos has been around for decades: it’s been offering tours for 60 years. It has a wide range of tours around the world and a strong Europe focus.

In addition to its standard coach tours, Cosmos also has a bunch of other, more specialized tour formats, including small group, “undiscovered” (going off the beaten track in popular destinations), and special-event focused tours. New for 2024, Cosmos is launching So Low pricing that waives the single supplement for solo travelers on select tours.

TourScoop Takeaways

Here’s a quick overview of Cosmos:

• Countries: 60 countries on 5 continents
• Tour Size Average: 38 (classic tours), 20-24 (Small Group Discoveries)
• Tour Type: Primarily coach 

How to Book

To book, you can pretty easily go direct through Cosmos via its website. You can also look for deals and help using an online travel agent like  Travelstride  or  TourRadar . Cosmos also has a t ravel agent locator tool on its website.

Credibility Check

Cosmos has solid credibility and satisfaction scores. As part of the Globus family of brands, it has BBB Accreditation and an A+ rating. On Trustpilot , its rating is 4.5 out of 5 (up from 4.3 last year), and its guest-review score on TourRadar is 4.2 out of 5. 

Tour Destinations

Cosmos has a wide reach, with tours in 60 countries on five continents. Among the most popular destinations on its more than 100 different itineraries are Britain and Ireland, Canada, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. It also has a number of tours within the U.S.

Cosmos stands out for its affordability and variety of tour styles, even those who don’t necessarily see themselves as tour-type people. Here’s a rundown of tour types (but note that not every tour type is offered in every destination): 

• Small Group Discoveries :   Small Group Discoveries tours are sized between 20 and 24 people (versus the average traditional tour group size of 38). There are small-group tour options for every tour in Europe and North America, and for some dates on South Pacific tours. 
• Undiscovered Tours :   Both Cosmos and its sister-brand Globus offer these “Undiscovered Tours” designed to take guests off the beaten track and into lesser-known and traveled towns and villages with more time in destination. Born notes that these tours are great for “repeat travelers and for those looking for a more in-depth experience in their chosen destination.”
• Special Event Tours:   Cosmos Special Event vacations focus on large celebrations in North America (think Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta and the Calgary Stampede). These tours offer special benefits like better access, close-up views, and behind-the-scenes experiences. 

INSIDER JAPAN: 10 Best Japan Tours for 2024

• Faith-Based Tours :   Cosmos also offers a range of Faith-Based Vacations that highlight centuries of religious history.  These Christianity-focused tours include sacred locations in the Holy Land, Italy, Spain and Portugal. 
• Cruise and Land Tours : The tour company mixes land and cruise experiences on these tours to destination pairs like the Canadian Rockies and Alaska, and Greece and the Aegean Islands.
• National Parks Tours : Cosmos has about a dozen U.S. national park focused tours. Some mix train journeys or cruises into the tour itinerary.

You can also search tours that are particularly affordable by looking at its Dreams on a Budget section, which features tours under $1,600 per person. And of note for solo travelers is that the single supplement is waived on select departures each year.

Tour Guides

Cosmos tour guides receive extensive training that includes certification by the destination authority and proficiency in multiple languages. Most are from the country in which they lead tours, and all are selected for their passion for travel and their storytelling abilities. Cosmos tour directors average 20 years with the company. 

ARRIVE PREPARED: 10 Things to Know Before Your First Group Tour

In addition to the tour directors, Cosmos has a strong network of local guides, many of whom have worked with the company for years.

Inclusions/Extras

Cosmos was an early pioneer in value touring vacation travel, and focuses on turning people’s travel dreams into reality, even when a budget is tight. Cosmos gets to the lower price point by preserving experiences and finding more affordable (but still conveniently located and of good quality) hotels.  

Cosmos tours include experienced Tour Directors, pre-selected hotels, guided city sightseeing, transportation, and select meals, including breakfast each day.

Optional excursions can be purchased pre-trip.  Cosmos can also add flights to and from the tour, with schedules coordinated with the tour.  Flights include complimentary airport transfers to-and from the hotel.  And airport transfers can also be added for land-only guests.                                    

Typical Travelers

The average Cosmos traveler is in their early- to mid-50s. Guests come from a range of generally English-speaking countries, primarily U.S. but also Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Cosmos travelers are an even mix of seasoned travelers and first-timers.  The majority are couples and families, but typically 20%+ are solo travelers.

Communication 

The standard pre-trip communication is made up of five emails, including the all-important Travel Packet, with has the detailed itinerary, schedule and flight information (if flights booked through Cosmos), destination information, tips and guidelines on pre-trip requirements and preparation for the destination, and information about booking optional excursions 90 days or closer to the departure date. Vacation planners are available by phone, email and online chat six days a week.     

Perfect Fit: How to Choose the Best European Tour for You

Cosmos also has the Cosmos GO app, which provides access to all tour components, including schedules, hotels, included features, destination information, optional excursions, interactive maps and more.  This access is provided pre-trip, 30-40 days prior to departure.

Loyalty Program

The Globus family of brands (Cosmos, along with Globus and Avalon River Cruises) offers a Welcome Back Credit loyalty program. Each trip earns guests up to $250 credit to use on a future trip with any of the brands. 

The per-person credit is based on the tour price:

• $2,499 or Less =   $100 credit
• $2,500 – $3,499 = $150 credit
• $3,500 – $4,499 = $200 credit
• $4,500 & Over =   $250 credit

Guests have two years to book/deposit a vacation using the credit. 

Private Options

Any Cosmos Europe tour can be converted into a Private Tour for between one and 24 people. There’s an additional premium, based on the overall number of guests, which is charged for each traveler in addition to the published tour price. Private tour groups get a dedicated tour director, private transportation and driver, and personal, and professional local guides, plus all of the visits and entrances in the original published itinerary. Private tours offer flexibility in both pace and experiences for you and your travel companions. To pursue a private tour with Cosmos, choose your tour from the Cosmos Europe lineup and then contact the company.  

Sustainability Efforts

Cosmos is part of the Globus family of brands. The company’s Lighthouse Project focuses on projects that benefit people, places, and the planet, with dozens of areas of focus within each category. Projects include support of The Ocean Cleanup, Trees4Travel, Landmine Design and dozens of other projects and initiatives worldwide.

Health and Safety Practices

Cosmos’ health and safety policy currently includes enhanced cleaning protocols on coaches, hotels, and ships. Cosmos also has a Travel Protection plan that includes a cancel for any reason benefit and covers expenses related to trip interruptions.

Family Companies

• Globus : Globus offers escorted tours to destinations around the world with a range of tour formats.
• Avalon River Cruises : Luxury small-ship river cruises in Europe, South East Asia and other worldwide destinations.

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Classic Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

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Day 1 : Tokyo,Japan

Location: tokyo, accommodation: hotel, meals included: no meals.

Welcome to Japan’s capital city. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Day 2 : Tokyo

Meals included: breakfast, lunch.

Meet your Tour Director and travel companions prior to morning sightseeing in Tokyo. Your tour starts with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. Next, visit Shinjuku Gyoen Garden. Originally dating from the early 1600s, the garden was destroyed in World War II and reopened in 1949 as a public park, home to one thousand cherry blossom trees. Today, it remains an immensely popular stop for locals and visitors alike. Last stop is the vibrant Asakusa Kannon Temple and the bustling Nakamise shopping arcade. The balance of the afternoon is at leisure.

Day 3 : Tokyo

Meals included: breakfast.

Enjoy the day at your leisure to explore this sprawling metropolis.

Day 4 : Tokyo,Mount Fuji Area

Location: tokyo, mount fuji.

This morning, leave Tokyo and head south along the coast to the beautiful Five Lakes region. Take a cable-car ride (weather permitting) for panoramic views of Lake Kawaguchi and spectacular Mount Fuji, or Fujisan as the locals call it, Japan’s highest mountain. You’ll also visit Chureito Pagoda for a chance to snap your own iconic image of the pagoda with Fujisan in the background!

Day 5 : Mount Fuji Area,Osaka

Location: mount fuji, osaka.

This morning, board Japan’s famous bullet train for Osaka. Upon arrival, a traditional lunch is served. Experience the city’s legendary dish, okonomiyaki, a delicious Japanese-style pancake. Then, join your Tour Director for a walking tour in Minami. Made up of Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Dotonbori, this area is home to great dining and nightlife and some of the city’s most fashionable shops and department stores.

Day 6 : Osaka

Location: osaka.

Your sightseeing tour starts at the Open-Air Museum of Old Japanese Farm Houses, where traditional thatched-roof farm houses dating from the Edo period have been restored. Be transported back in time as you explore the old architecture. Visit Osaka Castle then enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure. Perhaps return to Dotonbori this evening to sample local cuisine and see the sparkling neon lights.

Day 7 : Osaka,Okayama,Kurashiki,Hiroshima

Location: osaka, okayama, kurashiki, hiroshima.

This morning, drive south to Okayama and visit Koraku-en, one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan.” The 30-acre garden features ponds, plum groves, and tea fields. The wide lawns, believed to uplift the spirit and promote open mindedness, are unique to Koraku-en and not a traditional feature of Japanese gardens. In Kurashiki, enjoy free time in the Bikan Historical Quarter, once the political and commercial center of the city. The canal-lined, white-washed, stone streets reflect the Edo period (1603-1867) and are quintessentially Japanese. Continue to Hiroshima.

Day 8 : Hiroshima

Location: hiroshima.

Today’s full day sightseeing includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Peace Memorial Park and Itsukushima Shrine. Start at Peace Memorial Park where you’ll visit the Peace Memorial, commonly referred to as the Atomic Bomb Dome, that is preserved and is just as it was on August 6, 1945, immediately after the bombing. You will also visit the Memorial Museum and Memorial Hall, which commemorate the lives lost that day. Then, travel to Miyajima Island to visit Itsukushima Shrine, known for its beautiful floating Torii Gate.

Day 9 : Hiroshima,Bizen,Himeji,Kyoto

Location: hiroshima, bizen, himeji, kyoto.

Drive north to Bizen, where you’ll visit a traditional pottery workshop to learn more about Bizen-yaki, one of Japan’s six ancient pottery styles dating back over 1,000 years. Stop in Himeji to visit Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the finest surviving example of early 17th-century Japanese castle architecture that combines function with elegance. Continue to Kyoto. This evening, you may choose to stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan (additional fee).

Day 10 : Kyoto

Location: kyoto.

Your day begins with a visit to stunning Kinkakuji, the Temple of the Gold Pavilion, covered in shimmering gold leaf. Walk through bustling Nishiki Market, a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Participate in a tea ceremony, time-honored tradition, and wonderfully choreographed ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea. The afternoon is free for you to explore more of Kyoto’s historic sites and shrines. After lunch, visit Sanjusajendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy and Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for the thousands of brightly hued Torii Gate. Then, take a walking tour through Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, and sample a local Japanese treat.

Day 11 : Kyoto

Full day at leisure to explore more of Kyoto’s historic sites and shrines.

Day 12 : Kyoto

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.

What's Included

As detailed in the itinerary

Private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi.

What's Not Included

Not, Included.

11 breakfasts, 4 lunches

UNESCO Sites

Himeji Castle|Hiroshima Peace Memorial|Itsukushima Shrine|Mount Fuji

Small Group

Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.

Accommodation

Located in the heart of the city, and just one minute from a subway station, the Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier offer great access to all Tokyo has to offer. Its situated within a calming garden area to help you escape the crowds after a day of sightseeing. From the rooftop terrace you'll have 360 degree views over the city.

This brand new hotel features great access to and view of Mt. Fuji, as well as a restaurant, sauna, and free Wifi.

Located a 5-minute walk from Higobashi Subway Station and close to popular tourist areas, Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier is a great base to explore the city from. Guestrooms are spacious by Japanese standards and feature a simple contemporary style. The hotel also features an on site Japanese-style bath to relax in after exploring.

Conveniently located just within a 5-minute walk of Hiroshima Station, Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hiroshima Ekimae is the perfect base to explore the city and the surrounding area.

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo is located in Kyoto, 600 metres from Karasuma Station. It offers modern accommodation with a public bath, a restaurant and rooms with free WiFi. Shijo Station Exit 2 on the Karasuma Subway Line is a 6-minute stroll.

Check out our Q&As

What is the fitness level required to do this tour, are children permitted to take part in the tour.

Yes, 5 years or above.

Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

Is there any free time to explore places during the tour.

As detailed in an Itinerary.

How long has the tour company been trading?

What ethical travel credentials does the tour company have.

Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.

What documents will I receive before I travel?

Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.

Reviews of this Operator

We have just returned from a cosmos….

We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday

Excellent in every respect

I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again

A wonderrful experience

WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time.

Old South &Florida tour

Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can

The tour director expertise and…

The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you

Dates & Availability

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Monday - Friday

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$126 (USD)

Operator discount: -$501 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$124 (USD)

Book with Confidence

Low deposit.

Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

Cancellation Policy

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

Up to 65 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

At 64 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.

At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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5 Spots to Enjoy Cosmos Flowers in Japan

Appreciate the flowers dubbed autumn's cherry blossoms

Cosmos flowers are one of the highlights of Japan's autumn months, and they often get the name of "autumn's cherry blossoms" owing to their color and beauty. There are numerous places to appreciate these colorful blooms across the country, but if you're wondering where to start here are five of the best!

Awaji Hanasajiki, Hyogo Prefecture

Awaji Hanasajiki is a botanical garden located in Hyogo Prefecture, and you'll find a wide range of blooms here to enjoy year-round including the likes of poppies and snapdragons in spring, sunflowers and blue salvia in summer, and stock flowers in winter. The highlight of autumn is the massive cosmos field which blooms from early October to early November.

2805-7 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture 656-2301

Fields of cosmos at Hyogo's Awaji Hanasajiki Botanical Garden (Photo: Akas1950 / CC BY-SA 4.0 )

Showa Kinen Park, Tokyo Prefecture

One of Tokyo's outdoorsy delights is Showa Kinen Park, and a popular time to visit is during the autumn months. The park is known for its ginkgo tree-lined avenue which turns a stunning yellow hue, and the cosmos flowers are another delight of the season. The number of cosmos flowers planted here exceeds five million, which creates an incredibly picturesque scene.

3173 Midoricho, Tachikawa City Tokyo 190-0014

Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa is a delight in autumn (Photo: nakimusi / CC BY-SA 2.0 )

Iwappara Cosmos Park, Niigata Prefecture

Regarded as something of a well-kept secret - perhaps not for long - the Iwappara Cosmos Park in Niigata Prefecture showcases these pretty blooms against a lush green mountain backdrop. The park is set up on a hill in the Uonuma countryside, a region of Japan often referred to as snow country. The park is closed during the winter months because of the heavy snowfalls the region gets, so enjoying the cosmos flowers is the perfect way to farewell the autumn season before the area is blanketed in white.

643 Yoshidaira, Uonuma city, Niigata 946-0121

The mountains surrounding the Iwappara Cosmos Park add to the beauty (Photo: Kim B / JT)

Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park, Hokkaido Prefecture

Way up north in Hokkaido's Monbetsu region, the Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park shines before winter with their incredible cosmos display. There are a host of different cosmos varieties planted here, including the likes of the early-blooming Versailles Radiance Special, to the Double Click cosmos which features unique double-petals in a conical shape. There's no admission fee to visit the park, so if you're in the area be sure to stop by.

Engaru, Monbetsu District, Hokkaido 099-0400

Hokkaido's Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park has a range of different cosmos varieties planted (Photo: tokutotoo / CC BY-SA 4.0 )

Kirin Factory Cosmos Fields, Fukuoka Prefecture

One of the most unique cosmos fields in Japan is in Fukuoka, and it sits right by the Kirin beer factory. The factory offers tours which educate attendees about the beer making process (in Japanese only), and tastings are offered as well. Start with the flowers, end with the beer (or vice versa), and you've got yourself a ready-made fun day out.

3601 Mada, Asakura, Fukuoka 838-0058

One of Japan's most unique cosmos fields - by the Kirin beer factory in Fukuoka (Photo: gtknj / CC BY 2.0 )

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