Secrets of Japan

Duration

14 days

Guaranteed

4 travellers

Group size

16 travellers

Price

From AUD $8,015

WHAT TO EXPECT

Explore the vibrant streets of Kappabashi Dori, a haven for culinary enthusiasts. Discover a multitude of shops offering an extensive range of kitchenware, from pots and pans to utensils and furniture for restaurant owners. Don’t miss the intriguing stores selling lifelike food samples for display purposes. Immerse yourself in the world of textiles at Nippori Fabric Town, where a plethora of fabric stores await. From traditional silks to contemporary printed cotton, you’ll find a treasure trove of fabrics. Experience the charming ambiance of Yanaka Old Town, known for its distinct “shitamachi” or downtown atmosphere. Delight in the stark contrast to Tokyo’s modernity as you wander through this nostalgic neighbourhood.

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Itinerary

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Tokyo, you will be transferred to your hotel. Take advantage of some free time to unwind and explore the city at your own pace before your tour briefing. You will be staying in Tokyo for three nights, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and discovering its captivating attractions.
Immerse yourself in the captivating city of Tokyo during a morning walking tour. Begin your journey at the renowned Meiji Jingu Shrine, a prominent Shinto shrine that exudes tranquillity. Continue your exploration to the vibrant district of Harajuku, renowned for its lively Cosplay subculture. Board a train to Shibuya and witness the iconic pedestrian crossing that adorns the front of Shibuya train station. Indulge in a culinary adventure as you navigate through the delectable offerings of the Tokyu Food Hall. Afterward, savour the freedom of leisure time to further discover Tokyo’s enchanting secrets.

Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Visit of the Meiji Jingu Shrine
  • Explore Harajuku district
  • Explore the Tokyu Food Hall
    • Today, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the rich cultural heritage of Tokyo. Begin by visiting Asakusa Temple, the city’s oldest and most revered temple. Take a leisurely stroll along Kappabashi Dori, renowned for its specialized stores offering a wide array of unique goods. Explore Yanaka Cemetery, a famous graveyard that exudes a park-like atmosphere, creating a serene and contemplative experience. Finally, wander through Yanaka Old Town, where the charm of the past comes alive through repurposed historic buildings. Immerse yourself in the highlights of Tokyo’s ancient traditions and modern transformations on this captivating day of the tour.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Visit of the Asakusa Temple
  • Explore Kappabashi Dori
  • Explore the Yanaka Cemetery
  • Walk through the Yanaka Old Town
    • Travel by train to the charming destination of Hakone, where a delightful day of cultural immersion awaits. Experience the tranquillity of Lake Ashi as you embark on a leisurely boat cruise, surrounded by serene natural beauty. Take in the magnificent views of Mount Fuji from the ropeway, providing a memorable sightseeing experience. In the evening, indulge in a flavoursome meal and unwind at your traditional Japanese hotel’s rejuvenating onsen.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Boat cruise on Lake Ashi
    • Travel to Takayama by train, a destination renowned for its historical significance. Explore Takayama Jinya, a former government building that provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. Wander along Kami Sannomachi Street, where beautifully preserved wooden houses create an authentic atmosphere. Enjoy a two-night stay in Takayama, allowing ample time to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the town’s captivating heritage.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Visit of Takayama Jinya
  • Explore Kami Sannomachi Street
    • Start your day with a walking tour of Miyagawa morning market, where you can explore fresh produce and local goods. Visit Takayama Yatai Kaikan to marvel at magnificent wooden floats which are paraded through the streets each year during the two Takayama Festivals. In the afternoon, you have the option to visit Hida no Sato, where 30 traditional houses are displayed in a scenic village setting.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Walking tour of Miyagawa morning market
  • Visit of Takayama Yatai Kaikan
  • (optional) Visit of traditional village Hida no Sato
    • Travel from Takayama to the lively city of Osaka via train. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Embark on a walking tour of the iconic Dotonbori area, renowned for its dazzling neon lights, bustling street food scene, and exciting shopping opportunities. Experience the energy and vibrancy of this lively district, soaking in the unique charm that Osaka has to offer. Stay here for the next two nights.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Walking tour of Dotonbori area
    • Head to Umeda Sky Garden with it views of Osaka before walking through Kuromon Ichiba Market, also known as “Osaka’s Kitchen.” In the afternoon enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Umeda Sky Garden viewpoint
  • Walk through Kuromon Ichiba Market
    • Travel by train to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Museum, dedicated to the events of 1945 before seeing the sobering cenotaph of the Hiroshima bomb at Peace Memorial Park. Stay here for the next two nights.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Visit of the Peace Memorial Museum
  • Walk through the Peace Memorial Park
    • Venture by ferry to peaceful Miyajima Island, home to Itsukushima Shrine. Hike or travel by ropeway to the summit of Mount Misen for spectacular views. Enjoy a traditional okonomiyaki pancake before returning by ferry to the mainland. Spend the evening at leisure.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Excursion to Miyajima Island
  • Viewpoint at the summit of Mount Misen
  • Taste – Enjoy traditional okonomiyaki pancake
    • Travel by train to Himeji, famous for it’s imposing hilltop castle before continuing to Kyoto. Take an evening walking tour along Ponto-cho and Hanami-koji Lane in the Gion district where you may see a Geisha walking between appointments. Stay here for the next three nights.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Evening walking tour in the Gion district
    • Discover Kyoto’s highlights on a walking tour. Begin at Kiyomizudera Temple, in the hills of east Kyoto. Wander along the shophouses of Ninenzaka Street before visiting Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, Kenninji Temple. Learn the philosophy and art of serving tea at a traditional tea ceremony and finish the day with the golden pavilion at Kinkakuji, Kyoto’s most famous building.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Walking tour of Kyoto
  • Visit of the Kenninji Temple
  • Taste – Learn the art of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony
  • Visit of the golden pavilion at Kinkakuji
    • Start the day with a visit to the one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights, Fushimi Inari, with it’s tunnels of vermillion torii gates. You have free time to further explore Kyoto or take an optional afternoon excursion to the bamboo forest at Arahiyama. Conclude this trip in Japan on a memorable note, with a delightful farewell dinner, where you’ll have the privilege of being entertained by a genuine Maiko or apprentice Geisha. Immerse yourself in the elegance and grace of this traditional Japanese art form, as you savour a delicious meal and witness a captivating performance. Cherish this special evening as you bid farewell to Japan, creating lasting memories of your remarkable journey.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

    • Insider Experiences:
  • Visit of Fushimi Inari
  • (optional) Excursion to the bamboo forest at Arahiyama
  • Arts & Craft – Maiko or apprentice Geisha performance
    • Its time to say goodbye, but just think of all the wonderful stories you will take home.

    Meals included:
  • Breakfast

    • Tour images

    Inclusions

    • Insider Experiences

      Arts & Craft - Maiko or apprentice Geisha performance
      Taste - Enjoy traditional okonomiyaki pancake
      Taste - Learn the art of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony

    • Accommodation

      13 nights in 3-4 star hotels



    • Meals

      Daily breakfast
      1 local lunch
      2 local dinners

    • Transport

      Airport transfer on arrival
      All high-speed train travel as specified in the itinerary
      14 Day Rail Pass

    • Touring

      English speaking tour guide
      All entrance fees


    SKU: IJDB-SGJ-31-2024 / 2025 Categories: , , , , Tags: , ,

    Departure dates & rates

    START DATEEND DATEPRICE TWIN ROOMPRICE SINGLE ROOM
    Sunday, 1 September 2024Saturday, 14 September 202480159246
    Sunday, 29 September 2024Saturday, 12 October 202480159246
    Sunday, 6 October 2024Saturday, 19 October 202480159246
    Sunday, 20 October 2024Saturday, 2 November 202486929954
    Sunday, 3 November 2024Saturday, 16 November 202486929954
    Sunday, 17 November 2024Saturday, 30 November 202486929954
    Sunday, 2 March 2025Saturday, 15 March 202586929954
    Sunday, 23 March 2025Saturday, 5 April 2025904110303
    Sunday, 30 March 2025Saturday, 12 April 2025904110303
    Sunday, 6 April 2025Saturday, 19 April 2025904110303
    Sunday, 20 April 2025Saturday, 3 May 2025904110303

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