If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Our travel experts are ready to help.
Why Book with Bookmundi
No credit card or booking fees.
Best price guaranteed.
Carbon neutral tours.
25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
What are customers saying about Bookmundi
4.67/5
Excellent based on 850 customer reviews from
Karen
Problem-free booking and service right through the process
3 weeks ago
Best of Japan
BM-20512Share this tour link.
5.0Based on
13 days
“
Japan with Jake was awesome, he really made the trip that much more enjoyable
Antony | Traveled in April
5 - Excellent
Carbon neutral
CO2 emissions resulting from all trips on Bookmundi will be offset via investments in carbon reduction projects.
Customer Reviews
4.8
based on 6 reviews
5
1
Highlights
Tokyo: Check out the Sensoji Temple, one of the most significant temples in Japan, decked with a 5-storey pagoda. Don't forget to snap a pic under the giant red lantern!
Tokyo: Get a piece of Japan to take back home from one of the many little stalls here on Nakamise Street, just a short walk from the Sensoji Temple.
Tokyo: Visit this Shinto shrine in Shibuya, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shōken. You'll have the chance to wander through a tranquil forest, passing under the world-famous Tori Gate. And ofc, stop for a picture in front of the many colourful Sake barrels, and make a wish at the sacred Camphor tree.
Tokyo: Get ready for a riot of colour and vibrant fashion. This was (and still is) a home for Japanese fashion. Grab a vintage bag, a pair of sneakers or a kawaii outfit. And don't get us started on the food! You'll find rainbow cotton candy, candy covered strawberries or a rainbow cheese sandwich.
Tokyo: It's only the biggest pedestrian intersection in the world! Come watch the world go by (and grab an iconic picture) on the crossing.
Tokyo: Heads up seafood fans! Check out the weird and wonderful fish at this bustling market.
Hakone: Tour this beautiful mountain town, famed for its views of Mount Fuji. And get your kicks on the epic cable car ride.
Hakone: Nothing beats sitting down to enjoy a slap up meal. This is portion after portion of authentic Japanese cuisine at its finest.
Isawa: We'll visit a fruit farm where you'll have the chance to go pick and eat seasonal fruits (think: peaches, grapes. strawberries & more) - just like a local. It's a peak a Japanese experience!
Matsumoto: The towering ‘Black Crow’ castle is a national treasure. It looks like nothing short of a Samurai castle with its cherry trees (that blossom during spring!) and Alpine backdrop.
Takayama: The wooden ‘Edo’ buildings of Takayama really capture the vibe of ancient Japan.
Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum to commemorate the lives lost after the atomic bomb was dropped on the city.
Hiroshima: This way to amazing! These are the sites you always see in those impossibly tranquil pictures of Japan. IRL.
Kyoto: The Golden Pavilion. Geishas. It’s all so surreal. You’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a film set.
Kyoto: Walk through the endless path of orange torii gates, kindly ask Inari for good luck and then you might want to sample a fortune cookie.
Koyasan: Take off your shoes, enter the golden doors and marvel at the wonders. Then chill in the rock garden. And breathe...
Koyasan: Think sleepover, but at a Buddhist temple! Take a sneak peek into the lives of monks in this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience. Every penny we spend at the Shukubo helps preserve ancient traditions that are slowly disappearing. During your stay, the head monk welcomes the group and, with the help of your local guide, explains the basics of the religion and daily life in the temple. You’ll join morning prayers, explore important religious relics, and learn the significance of the temple’s traditions. Top it off with a traditional vegetarian meal, discovering its positive effects and religious significance. Who knew you could do so much good by simply taking time to relax?
Koyasan: Start your journey towards enlightenment at this spiritual ceremony in Mount Koya. And breathe…
Tokyo: Heads up seafood fans! Check out the weird and wonderful fish at this bustling market.
Hakone: Tour this beautiful mountain town, famed for its views of Mount Fuji. And get your kicks on the epic cable car ride.
Hakone: Nothing beats sitting down to enjoy a slap up meal. This is portion after portion of authentic Japanese cuisine at its finest.
Isawa: We'll visit a fruit farm where you'll have the chance to go pick and eat seasonal fruits (think: peaches, grapes. strawberries & more) - just like a local. It's a peak a Japanese experience!
Matsumoto: The towering ‘Black Crow’ castle is a national treasure. It looks like nothing short of a Samurai castle with its cherry trees (that blossom during spring!) and Alpine backdrop.
Takayama: The wooden ‘Edo’ buildings of Takayama really capture the vibe of ancient Japan.
Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum to commemorate the lives lost after the atomic bomb was dropped on the city.
Hiroshima: This way to amazing! These are the sites you always see in those impossibly tranquil pictures of Japan. IRL.
Kyoto: The Golden Pavilion. Geishas. It’s all so surreal. You’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a film set.
Kyoto: Walk through the endless path of orange torii gates, kindly ask Inari for good luck and then you might want to sample a fortune cookie.
Koyasan: Take off your shoes, enter the golden doors and marvel at the wonders. Then chill in the rock garden. And breathe...
Koyasan: Think sleepover, but at a Buddhist temple! Take a sneak peek into the lives of monks in this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience. Every penny we spend at the Shukubo helps preserve ancient traditions that are slowly disappearing. During your stay, the head monk welcomes the group and, with the help of your local guide, explains the basics of the religion and daily life in the temple. You’ll join morning prayers, explore important religious relics, and learn the significance of the temple’s traditions. Top it off with a traditional vegetarian meal, discovering its positive effects and religious significance. Who knew you could do so much good by simply taking time to relax?
Koyasan: Start your journey towards enlightenment at this spiritual ceremony in Mount Koya. And breathe…
What's Included
Accommodation
Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)Ryokan Special Stay HotelTakayama Green Hotel (or similar)Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar) HotelHenjokoin Wakayama (or similar) HotelIbis Budget Osaka Umeda (or similar) Hotel
Meals
Breakfast (x8)Dinner (x2)
Transport
Travel by coach
Guide
Experienced Driver Guide
13 daysDuration
Group TourJoin a group of travelers
48 peopleMaximum group size
18 - 35 yearsAge range for participants
EnglishGuide language
Moderate
Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.
Starts
Ends
Tokyo, Japan
Osaka, Japan
Availability
Loading availability...
What's Excluded
Itinerary
Tokyo neon, Kyoto temples, bullet trains and a monastery stay on Mt Koya – this is Japan’s greatest hits, with a few surprises. Cross Shibuya’s scramble, soak in a traditional onsen, catch Mt Fuji views from Hakone and slowdown in quiet Buddhist shrines. From Takayama’s old town to Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Osaka’s street food scene, the big moments keep coming.
day 1Tokyo
Konnichiwa, Tokyo! Welcome to this dazzling orchestra of light, sound and intersecting subway lines. Meet your crew, get the trip vibes flowing, then your evenings yours.
This was such a fun and unbelievable experience. I would do it again x
A
AnonymousVerified Traveler
5.0 | Excellent
Great way to see this country. A surprise around every corner
R
Ryan B.Verified Traveler
5.0 | Excellent
I had the time of my life on my recent contiki trip to Japan. The group made the trip so much enjoyable. My trip manager was very knowledgeable and was such a vibe we enjoyed him very much. The places we went to was so pretty. The special stays were a once in a lifetime. With the Buddhist temple stay and the traditional home stay. However the last 2 days felt wasted due to us traveling from Kyoto to Osaka to Koyasan back to Osaka. Other than that the trip was amazing The itinerary was good the partying was fun and all the activities and FTAddons were great too. Thanks Contiki for such an amazing trip
L
Luke T.Verified Traveler
5.0 | Excellent
Japan, just WOW!!! What an amazing country, the dense populated cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka you get a real sense of the hustle and bustle. Japans beauty cannot be matched by Mount Fuji, beautiful UNESCO world heritage sites such as Miyajima - Hiroshima. Beautiful architecture and cherry blossoms really set the part in the history and beauty of Japan.
Contiki Japan Unrivalled really gives you this exposure to the very best of Japan!
A full on packed trip you will explore a lot of Japan. Only downside was limited time in Mount Fuji, Kyoto and Osaka.
This is my 5th trip with Contiki and every trip is just perfect!! Highly recommend
A
AntonyVerified Traveler
5.0 | Excellent
Japan with Jake was awesome, he really made the trip that much more enjoyable
Monthly Price Comparison
Similar Tours You Might Like
Discover our top tours similar to Best of Japan that you might like.
Japan’s seamless blend of old and new comes alive on the Journeys: Iconic Japan tour, a 12-day cultural exploration from Tokyo to Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of one of the world’s most innovative cities before trading neon lights for tranquil countryside retreats.
Visit traditional villages, serene shrines, picturesque gardens, and historic geisha districts. From savoring exquisite Japanese cuisine to wandering through age-old temples and bustling markets, every day offers new insights into the nation’s unique heritage. You’ll travel by rail, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey between destinations.
What sets this trip apart is its thoughtful balance of cultural immersion—delivering a true taste of both Japan’s futuristic pulse and its enduring traditions. This tour package is ideal for curious travelers seeking an authentic, in-depth experience of Japan’s many faces.
From neon-lit Tokyo to tranquil Kyoto gardens, the "Discover Japan" tour is a 14-day deep dive into Japan’s harmonious blend of old and new. This small group tour offers a perfect balance of guided sightseeing and independent exploration, including a high-speed Shinkansen ride, a stay at a traditional Japanese inn, and contemplative moments at sacred shrines. Wander through the cultural heart of Kyoto, catch the futuristic buzz of Tokyo, and gaze upon the iconic beauty of Mt Fuji. With accommodations, transport, and meals included, the true standout is the flexibility—giving you the freedom to savor Japan’s wonders at your own pace while benefiting from expert local guidance.
Step into a land where ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity converge on the “Japan: Land of the Rising Sun” tour. Over 13 days, you’ll travel from the electrifying streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, with stops in Hakone, Nikko, and more. This small group journey is an ideal fit for those seeking a moderate, immersive exploration of Japan’s cultural and scenic wonders.
Marvel at panoramic vistas from the Hakone ropeway, savor sake in the alpine town of Takayama, and learn about Hiroshima’s inspiring resilience. With a local guide leading the way, you’ll uncover both iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems, from floating torii gates on Miyajima Island to traditional markets.
All accommodations, transport, and meals are included, making this a seamless and enriching sightseeing trip. The unique selling point is the expert guidance offered throughout, ensuring authentic encounters and in-depth understanding of Japanese history and culture.
For travelers looking for a balanced blend of discovery and comfort, “Japan: Land of the Rising Sun” is an unforgettable journey through the heart of Japan.
Southern Japan’s hidden gems beckon on this 12-day guided tour, starting and ending in Osaka. Journey beyond the usual routes to explore Yakushima’s ancient forests, the artistic enclave of Naoshima, and Matsuyama’s storied castle. This city sightseeing trip offers travelers a captivating blend of modern art, traditional countryside, and immersive cultural experiences. Enjoy a tranquil homestay in Usuki village and rejuvenate in Beppu’s famous steamy onsens. Spend a night at Mt Aso, nestled in a volcanic caldera surrounded by lush rice terraces, before visiting the moving Peace Park in Nagasaki. Return to vibrant Osaka, enriched by the unique combination of bullet train journeys, rural escapes, and delectable local feasts. A highlight of this tour package is its exclusive access to less-touristed southern regions, providing an insider’s perspective on Japan’s evolving arts, natural beauty, and time-honored traditions—a perfect adventure for those seeking a fresh take on Japanese travel.
Experience the captivating beauty of Hokkaido on a 12-day personalized mini group tour for 4-6 people. This intimate journey begins in Sapporo, exploring cultural landmarks before venturing through Furano's vibrant landscapes and Biei's scenic beauty. Highlights include wildlife encounters, local cuisine, relaxation at Akanko Onsen's hot springs, hiking in Daisetsuzan, and enjoying the all-inclusive luxury of Club Med. The tour concludes with a final stay in Sapporo, offering a well-rounded experience of Hokkaido's diverse charms.
Kindly Notes: Booking during peak seasons (cherry blossom, fall colors, skiing) and last-minute reservations may face price changes.
Kyoto, Tokyo, Hiroshima, and more—"Classic Japan" takes you on an 11-day journey through the country’s heart, blending centuries-old traditions with vibrant modernity. This moderate sightseeing tour suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of cultural enlightenment and culinary delights. Explore samurai history, stroll through lush landscapes, and enjoy the buzz of eclectic neighborhoods. Guided by a local expert, your small group will discover everything from tranquil temples to lively food markets. The unique selling point? A seamless fusion of historical depth and everyday Japanese life, making this tour package ideal for anyone ready to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich tapestry.
On this 10-day Hokkaido adventure, you'll discover the best of Japan's northern island. Departing from Sapporo, you'll visit iconic landmarks such as the clock tower and sample exquisite chocolate at the Ishiya factory. Next, head to Noboribetsu to soak in the comfort of hot springs and experience the Edo-period charm of the Date Jidai Mura. On the shores of Lake Toya, you'll enjoy stunning lake views, learn about the unique geological history of this volcanic region, and relax in the Toyako Onsen. Once in Hakodate, you'll sample gourmet food from the market and take in the stunning views of Mount Hakodate. At Club Med at Kiroro Resort, you'll enjoy a variety of activities, fine dining, and plenty of entertainment. Finally, you'll enjoy the Kobe Canal and Music Box Museum in Sapporo to make the most of your Hokkaido trip and make unforgettable memories.
Kindly Note: Booking during peak seasons ( cherry blossom, fall colors, skiing) and last-minute reservations may face price changes.
When visiting Japan during spring, admiring the beautiful cherry blossoms is one of the top experiences you can have. Cherry blossoms can be found almost everywhere, but Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are particularly recommended as they are popular destinations for first-time visitors. These cities offer a unique blend of traditional culture and modernity, making them the perfect places to immerse yourself in the beauty of sakura, or cherry blossoms.
Embark on a 10-day journey through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, where you'll be immersed in the stunning seas of pink cherry blossoms. Our professional local guides will ensure you capture the perfect spring photos and experience the very best of Japan during its most beautiful season. You'll have the opportunity to stroll through historic temples and gardens, dine on delicious Japanese cuisine, and take part in local traditions like hanami, the custom of enjoying the beauty of flowers.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that includes a worry-free, fully guided hanami (cherry blossom viewing) experience, witnessing the Fuji Five Lakes during the cherry blossom season, and experiencing the fastest train on the world-famous Shinkansen lines. This trip offers the perfect balance of cultural immersion and relaxation, all set against the backdrop of Japan's iconic cherry blossoms. It's an experience you won't want to miss!
The peak cherry blossom season in Japan typically spans from late March to early April, making it an ideal time for your spring vacation or Easter holiday. Note that the blooming times vary regionally, with Okinawa blooming as early as January and Hokkaido as late as May. This regional variation means that no matter when you visit, there's always a chance to catch the stunning pink blossoms.