Highlights of Japan Tour with 40 Reviews by Expat Explore

13 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

51 peopleMaximum group size

10 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Tokyo, Japan

Ends

Tokyo, Japan

Highlights

Discover Japan’s capital, Tokyo, on a city tour

Witness the Itsukushima, Meiji and Hakone Shrines

Visit Himeji Castle, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and the Kiyomizu Temple

Enjoy full days to explore Tokyo, Hiroshima and Kyoto

Step back in time with visits to Takayama and Shirakawa-go

Take the Shinkansen bullet train from Kanazawa to Tokyo

Itinerary

Japan’s allure lies in its seamless fusion of futuristic cities and timeless traditions, captured beautifully on the 13-day Highlights of Japan tour. From Tokyo’s animated skyline to Kyoto’s tranquil temples, this trip takes travelers through Mount Fuji’s scenic vistas, Hiroshima’s poignant history, and the cultural treasures of Kanazawa and Shirakawa-go. Experience Osaka’s dynamic nightlife and sample local delicacies, all while traveling on the legendary Shinkansen bullet train. Tailored for seasoned explorers and seniors, this tour offers a moderate activity level, expertly guided cultural tours, and authentic culinary experiences. The USP of this tour package is the immersive depth—each day brings new insights into Japan’s heritage and contemporary charm, making it perfect for those who want to see the real Japan beyond the guidebooks.

day 1 - Start of tour in Tokyo

Today is the first day of this exciting 13-day Japan group tour! Arrive in Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, and check into the hotel from 03:00 PM. You will receive a information pack explaining today’s activities. This evening, meet up with your tour leader and fellow travellers at a local restaurant. Enjoy an included welcome dinner and get your first taste of delicious Japanese cuisine!

Meals:Dinner

Others:Enjoy a traditional welcome dinner in Tokyo

day 2 - Tokyo

Get ready for a full day in the iconic city of Tokyo today! After breakfast, set off on a sightseeing tour to discover some of the city’s top attractions and witness ancient culture at the Meiji Shrine and the Senso-ji Temple. After the tour, enjoy free time for lunch at Tsukiji Fish Market and explore Takeshita Street, a pedestrian shopping jungle abuzz with style and unique activities! This evening, continue exploring Tokyo at leisure or join the optional Tokyo+ excursion, which includes a visit to the Skytree Tower for panoramic views of the city, dinner in Omoide Yokocho and a walking tour of Shinjuku City.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Stroll through Tokyo’s vibrant neighbourhoods on a city tour, Visit the Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple, Explore the Tsukiji Fish Market

day 3 - Kamakura - Hakone - Shizuoka

Bid farewell to Tokyo as the journey continues to Shizuoka with some insightful sightseeing along the way. Discover Kamakura, a picturesque seaside city known for its Great Buddha and the Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shinto shrine. Then, unwind in Hakone, a charming town on the shores of Lake Ashi with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Enjoy free time for lunch and further exploration before continuing the journey to Shizuoka Prefecture. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and look forward to a free evening to spend as you wish!

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Visit the Great Buddha in Kamakura, See the Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shinto shrine, Visit Hakone Shrine on the shores of Lake Ashi, Capture Mount Fuji during a photo stop

day 4 - Nihondaira Tea Farm - Miso Factory - Toyota Museum - Iga

A day full of one-of-a-kind Japanese experiences lies ahead! The first stop of the day is Nihondaira where views of the awe-inspiring Mount Fuji await. Upon arrival, visit a green tea farm to learn how Japan’s most popular tea is produced and then enjoy free time for lunch. Up next is a tour of a miso factory. Then, visit the Toyota Museum and discover an impressive collection of vintage vehicles and memorabilia. The last stop of the day is the city of Iga where tonight's accommodation is located. Settle in for the evening.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Admire the views from Nihondaira, Visit a green tea plantation, Tour a miso factory, Explore the Toyota Museum

day 5 - Iga Ninja Museum - Sumo Museum - Osaka

Fuel up for today’s adventures with breakfast at the hotel before heading to the Iga Ninja Museum to learn about the mysterious ways of these martial artists and witness a Ninja skill and weaponry demonstration. Next, travel to the Kehaya Sumo Museum and learn about the history of this unique style of wrestling. Then, continue to Osaka and enjoy an orientation tour. Discover some of the city’s highlights and learn all about this lively city that is both an important trade centre and a top nightlife destination. Then, explore the vibrant Dotonbori area during free time. Be sure to taste some of the delicious street food. Tonight offers a delicious, optional dinner complete with the finest Wagyu beef!

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Witness a Ninja demonstration at the Iga Ninja Museum, Experience the world of Sumo at the Kehaya Sumo Museum, Explore Osaka and its famous Dotonbori district

day 6 - Osaka - Himeji - Hiroshima

Hiroshima awaits! This morning, wave goodbye to Osaka as the tour journeys to yet another intriguing Japanese city. En route to Hiroshima, make a stop at Himeji Castle, the construction of which dates back to the 14th century and is still one of the best examples of Japanese architecture today. Witness the incredible views from this hilltop castle (keep an eye out for cherry blossoms between March and May) and admire its well-preserved interior before continuing the journey. Upon arrival in Hiroshima this afternoon, check into the hotel where the group will stay for the next two nights. To end the day, enjoy an included Okonomiyaki dinner. This savoury pancake is one of Japan’s most popular dishes and a must-try!

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:Visit the beautiful Himeji Castle, Enjoy an Okonomiyaki dinner

day 7 - Hiroshima

Enjoy a full day to uncover Hiroshima’s modern delights and ancient wonders. Walk across the historic Kintaikyo Bridge and visit the Itsukushima Shrine, which is known for its “floating” torii (gate), on Miyajima Island. Here, enjoy free time for lunch and be sure to try momiji manju , a local sweet treat. Back in Hiroshima, learn about the devastating impact of the atomic bombing on Hiroshima during WW2 and how it has shaped the city today. Pay your respects to the victims of the 1945 bombing at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum before enjoying a free evening. Explore at leisure or get a taste of the city’s nightlife by visiting the Nagarekawa district for a night to remember!

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Walk along the impressive Kintaikyo Bridge, Visit the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, Pay your respects at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum

day 8 - Hiroshima - Kurashiki - Kyoto

After breakfast, depart Hiroshima and head to Kurashiki, a town boasting peaceful canals and historic rice storehouses. Enjoy free time exploring Kurashiki’s historic centre and the multiple museums or soak in the tranquil sights from the water on a punting boat. In the early afternoon, the journey continues to Kyoto, a true highlight of any Japan tour! This ancient city and former capital of Japan showcases breathtaking architecture and unique traditions. End the day with a trip to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Admire the breathtaking bamboo towers as you walk through this otherworldly forest. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish!

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Explore the peaceful, canal-lined town of Kurashiki, Experience the enchanting city of Kyoto, Wander through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

day 9 - Kyoto

Today, Kyoto is yours to enjoy! With over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, this iconic city is rich in culture and natural beauty just waiting to be discovered. First up is a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha. This spellbinding sight features rows upon rows of red torii gates! Soak it all in before discovering one of Japan’s most impressive temples, The Kiyomizu Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts over 1,200 years of history. Next, travel to Kinkakuji, a Zen temple known as the “Golden Pavilion” due to its top two floors being covered in gold leaf! Join tonight’s optional excursion for an unforgettable insight into the Gion district’s arts and culture.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Stand in awe of Fushimi Inari Taisha, Explore the Kiyomizu Temple, Discover Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion

day 10 - Kyoto - Hikone - Gujo Hachiman - Takayama

It’s time to explore more fascinating Japanese sights as the tour heads to Hikone, a quaint city on the shores of Lake Biwa. Experience the 17th-century Genkyuen Garden and catch a glimpse of the Edo-period Hikone Castle. Then, head to the mountainous Gifu Prefecture where the first stop is Gujo Hachiman, a riverside town known for its serene waterways. This afternoon, travel to Takayama, where the tour will spend the evening. Discover the historic Sanmachi district this afternoon and get insights into the artisans, merchants and farmers who lived here during the Edo period. End the day with a Sake tasting at a quirky store with Sake vending machines!

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Visit Genkyuen Garden in Hikone, Admire the tranquil waterways of Gujo Hachiman, Experience Edo-period Japan in Takayama, Taste authentic Japanese Sake

day 11 - Takayama - Shirakawa-go - Kanazawa

After breakfast, visit Takayama Jin’ya, a former Edo-period government building. Then, head to the Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en Open Air Museum and explore a collection of old farmhouses showcasing unique architectural styles of Japan's mountainous regions. Admire their characteristic wooden, thatched gable roofs. Next, travel to the traditional village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled among the Japanese Alps, this village feels like stepping into a fairytale. This afternoon, journey to Kanazawa. Upon arrival, visit the picture-perfect Kenrokuen Garden which boasts exceptional scenery no matter the season. Tonight, join the Flavours of Kanazawa optional excursion to taste some of the city’s most exquisite seasonal products and seafood!

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Explore Takayama Jin-ya, Visit the Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en Air Museum, Travel back in time in Shirakawa-go, Discover the unmatched beauty of Kenrokuen Garden

day 12 - Kanazawa - Tokyo

Take time this morning to explore Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture. Soak in the history and culture of this hidden gem that shares many similarities with Kyoto but is much less crowded. Discover the famous Nagamachi Samurai District, wander its cobblestone streets and look forward to visiting a former Samurai home! This afternoon, head to the train station to hop aboard the Shinkansen and travel to Tokyo. Known for its exceptional speed, this bullet train can travel up to 320kph (200mph)! Upon arrival, check into the hotel and get ready to enjoy a farewell group dinner this evening!

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:Visit a former Samurai home in Kanazaw, Take the Shinkansen bullet train to Tokyo, Enjoy a farewell dinner in Tokyo

day 13 - End of tour in Tokyo

After an unforgettable 13 days spent exploring the highlights of Japan, the tour comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Be sure to swap contact details with your fellow travellers so the memories can live on! the tour operator wishes you a safe journey onward.

Meals:Breakfast

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

12 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenienceSingle travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)

Meals

Enjoy a traditional welcome dinner in TokyoEnjoy an Okonomiyaki dinnerEnjoy a farewell dinner in Tokyo12 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners * Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

Transport

Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seatsAny public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Guide

Fully guided tour with experienced tour leaderTour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

Others

Stroll through Tokyo’s vibrant neighbourhoods on a city tourVisit the Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji TempleExplore the Tsukiji Fish MarketVisit the Great Buddha in KamakuraSee the Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shinto shrineVisit Hakone Shrine on the shores of Lake AshiCapture Mount Fuji during a photo stopAdmire the views from NihondairaVisit a green tea plantationTour a miso factoryExplore the Toyota MuseumWitness a Ninja demonstration at the Iga Ninja MuseumExperience the world of Sumo at the Kehaya Sumo MuseumExplore Osaka and its famous Dotonbori districtVisit the beautiful Himeji CastleWalk along the impressive Kintaikyo BridgeVisit the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima IslandPay your respects at the Peace Memorial Park and MuseumExplore the peaceful, canal-lined town of KurashikiExperience the enchanting city of KyotoWander through the Arashiyama Bamboo ForestStand in awe of Fushimi Inari TaishaExplore the Kiyomizu TempleDiscover Kinkakuji, the Golden PavilionVisit Genkyuen Garden in HikoneAdmire the tranquil waterways of Gujo HachimanExperience Edo-period Japan in TakayamaTaste authentic Japanese SakeExplore Takayama Jin-yaVisit the Gassho-Zukuri Minka-en Air MuseumTravel back in time in Shirakawa-goDiscover the unmatched beauty of Kenrokuen GardenVisit a former Samurai home in KanazawTake the Shinkansen bullet train to TokyoShinkansen (bullet train) journey from Kanazawa to Tokyo

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Highlights of Japan

4.6

based on 40 reviews

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

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

Earn USD 119+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

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 807 customer reviews from

SAMER

Good service and easy going , highly recommend 👌

12 hours ago

What's Included

Accommodation

Meals

Enjoy a traditional welcome dinner in TokyoEnjoy an Okonomiyaki dinnerEnjoy a farewell dinner in Tokyo12 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners * Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

Transport

Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seatsAny public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Guide

Fully guided tour with experienced tour leaderTour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

Others

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights