15 Day Winter Japan
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Small, personal group experience – no more than 20 people
✓ Return international airfares with a full-service airline
✓ All airport and rail transfers
✓ Experience the iconic Japanese bullet train
✓ 14 nights in comfortable 3 and 4 star accommodation
✓ Daily breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
✓ Fully escorted with expert, English-speaking guide
✓ Incredible sightseeing as per the itinerary, including ancient Kyoto’s beautiful shrines, bathing snow monkeys in Yudanaka and the sights of buzzing Tokyo
✓ Dedicated coach transportation
✓ 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Japan! Every season in this beautiful country is a delight and winter is no exception. Japan may be a renowned ski destination but the magic extends past its famed winter sports scene.
You’ll be met on arrival in Osaka and transferred to your hotel in Kyoto. Considered by many to be the jewel in Japan’s crown, Kyoto is one of the only cities in Japan to escape destruction during World World II, leaving its countless relics intact. These elegant landscapes and splendid temples are even more beautiful with a dusting of snow. There will be a welcome meeting to discuss some tour logistics and to give you a chance to meet your fellow travellers. Then, take an orientation walk to get your bearings in ancient Kyoto.
Please note: Some flights may depart the day before.
Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day from as early as 6am through to late evening. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
We’ll see Kyoto’s highlights today with a full day of touring some of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, like the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion). This is a Zen temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold, set within a beautiful classical Zen garden. We’ll visit Ryoanji Temple, the site of Japan’s most famous rock garden, and stroll along the Philosopher’s Path in northeastern Kyoto, running alongside the Lake Biwa Canal.
You’ll also visit Nishiki Market, a popular food market frequented by tourists and locals alike. On this five-block long shopping street, you’ll find everything from seafood to handmade Japanese knives.
Enjoy a welcome lunch at a local restaurant with the rest of your group.
It’s a free day for you to explore Kyoto.
Fancy indulging in the traditional, steaming hot art of onsen? This much-loved part of Japanese culture is a great way to thaw out. There are several onsen (hot springs) around Kyoto.
Step back in time as you stroll the streets of Gion, the famous geisha district. Or stay warm by heading to one of Kyoto’s popular museums, like the Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum, with hourly tours.
Visit this ancient capital of Japan and get up close to the fabled, holy deer of Nara. Explore Buddhist temples and stroll the beautiful backstreets of old town to discover handicraft havens, quirky shops and traditional machiya houses. Watch the turtles going about their daily lives at the tranquil, picturesque Sarusawa pond. You’ll also taste some of the best street food in the city.
This morning, your luggage will be sent ahead to meet you at your hotel in Tokyo, as we’ll travel by bullet train. You will need to pack an overnight bag.
The best way to get around Japan is on the country’s famous railway system, shinkansen (bullet train). It’s efficient and ultra-modern. Our journey to Nagano, a popular winter destination renowned for its skiing, takes four hours.
A city tour takes us to Zenkoji, arguably one of Japan’s most important temples. This seventh-century National Treasure houses the first Buddhist statue that was brought to Japan.
This morning we’ll head to the small onsen town of Yudanaka, in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture. At Jigokudani Monkey Park, we’ll see snow monkeys bathing in hot springs – yes, really. These Japanese macaque monkeys opt to soak in the onsen during the cold winter months. It’s an adorable sight.
Then, it’s about a four or five train journey trip to Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolis.
We’ll start with a visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market, a shopping district adjacent to the enormous former wholesale fish market. It’s a dream for foodies. This lively area has everything food-related – fresh ingredients, street food vendors, kitchen utensils. You’ll find great sushi and other restaurants around here, too.
We’ll then visit nearby Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu), located within a 170-acre forest in the centre of Tokyo. Constructed of cypress wood and copper, the shrine commemorates Emperor Meiji, who presided over Japan’s industrial revolution in the second half of the 19th century. Visitors can write and hang their deepest wishes on the wishing tree.
Sensō-ji Temple is the oldest and most important Buddhist temple in Tokyo. It’s dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
We’ll experience hectic Tokyo life with a walk through buzzing Shinjuku. The Shibuya Crossing is a must-see, with its neon displays and swarms of people crossing the intersection.
The day is yours to explore Tokyo at your own pace. It’s a breeze to get around this modern, efficient city on its excellent subway network.
Even for a city so densely populated, Tokyo has a lot of parks and green spaces, like Hamarikyu Gardens, a beautiful public park that has served many purposes over the centuries. It was originally built as a feudal lord’s Tokyo residence and duck hunting grounds during the Edo period. The Imperial Palace, previously home to samurai warriors, is a sprawling complex with its beautiful 17th-century parks in the heart of the city. Ueno Park is the city’s largest green space – there’s even a zoo here.
Ice skating is popular in winter, with several outdoor rinks. Winter time in Japan also plays host to beautiful light shows and illuminations. Tokyo Tower, a bright orange Eiffel Tower-inspired structure, is a beautiful sight illuminated.
Gain a fascinating insight into the two dominant religions of Japan, with a visit to a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine. After this enlightening experience, which includes witnessing the famous Goma fire ritual, we’ll cool off at a traditional garden. This tour is a must-do if you’d like a deeper understanding of the role of religion and ritual in Japanese culture.
Time to savour the taste of iconic, legendary Tokyo flavours and dishes. On this tour, you’ll enjoy yakitori (skewered BBQ chicken) at a typical yakitori bar, then the popular Japanese dish monjayaki (pan-fried batter) in the Tsukishima area. Visit a wagashi shop to learn about these traditional, dainty Japanese sweets and soak in the energetic atmosphere of modern, downtown Tokyo at night.
This morning, your luggage will be sent ahead to meet you at Lake Shikaribetsu. You will need to pack an overnight bag.
You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to the northern island of Hokkaido. We’ll head to Abashiri, on the northeastern coast, by bus.
It’s famous for its ryuhyo ice, masses of drift ice in the Okhotsk Sea. One of the best ways to see this winter spectacle is by boat, so we’ll make our way straight to the cruise terminal and head out on a one-hour cruise for a better look at this natural phenomenon. It makes for a beautiful winter scene.
"Please note that this activity cannot always be guaranteed and is weather dependent. Your tour guide will advise the likelihood while on tour"
We’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
We’ll start the day with a visit to the Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples for an introduction to native Ainu culture and other northern peoples, such as the Sámi from Scandinavia. We’ll also see the open-air Abashiri Prison Museum, home to the old prison’s Meiji-era buildings.
Our next stop is stunning Lake Akan, a crater lake in Akan Mashu National Park. It’s home to the mysterious marimo, a green algae species that grows into a spherical shape. It’s believed this process can take more than 100 years. The scenery here is postcard-perfect. In winter, frost crystals stretch across the lake to resemble blooming flowers.
We’ll visit a small Ainu kotan (village), where you’ll find folk craft shops selling handmade items, traditional restaurants and a theatre that hosts ceremonial dances and puppet shows.
We’ll continue to Lake Shikaribetsu, where we’ll have a kaiseki dinner at our hotel – a traditional multi-course culinary experience.
Lake Shikaribetsu, the highest lake in Hokkaido, is famous for its annual winter festival held on the frozen lake. The small man-made ice village includes igloo houses, an ice bar, and an open-air onsen.
You’ll have some time this morning to enjoy Lake Shikaribetsu before heading to the Akan International Crane Centre. The Kushiro marshland, Japan’s largest wetland and a national park, is home to the only known population of endangered Japanese Cranes, once thought to be extinct. See these red-crowned dancing birds and learn more about them at the centre, which houses a museum, breeding centre and sanctuary.
The day is free for you to relax or explore Kushiro. To discover more about the region, head to the Kushiro City Museum to learn more about the history of this land and Ainu culture.
Time to get close to nature and explore this winter wonderland. You’ll don snowshoes and step into a pristine snowfield to walk around and have fun in the snow. Waterproof attire is highly recommended.
Time to experience ice fishing for wakasagi, Japanese pond smelt. Your expert guide will teach you how to hang the line in the ice hole. You’ll then make tempura and feast on the day’s catch!
This morning, your luggage will be sent ahead to meet you in Sapporo, as we’ll travel by express train. You will need to pack a bag.
The journey to Sapporo, Hokkaido’s capital, takes about four hours.
There are many great matsuri (festivals) in Japan, and Sapporo’s Snow Festival is the ultimate winter celebration. The city’s streets and open spaces become a winter wonderland. It’s known for its legendary snow and ice sculptures, giant works of art.
We’ll explore the city with a half day walking tour. Visit the famous Sapporo Clock Tower, built from timber in the late 1800s, the Sapporo Beer Museum and the lively Susukino district. It’s a haven for food, shopping and entertainment. It’s positively buzzing, with neon signs, noise, shopping and nightlife.
Please note: The Sapporo Snow Festival is usually held in early February. Not every departure will be in Sapporo for this event.
We’ll make a day trip by train to Otaru this morning, a small harbour city known for glassworks, music boxes and sake distilleries.
On our walking tour we’ll cruise the Otaru Canal, once an important commercial port. It’s well preserved and quaint, lined with old merchant houses. Look out for landmarks like the Otaru Music Box Museum and the traditional shopping street Sakaimachi. Many of the buildings on Sakaimachi street have been converted into restaurants, cafes and shops – you’ll likely find some of the region’s fine glassware, a lovely souvenir.
This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your group to celebrate your time in Japan.
Enjoy one last delicious breakfast this morning, before your Japanese adventure comes to an end. After checking out of your hotel, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight back home.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this extraordinary journey.
Check out: Passengers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out times will apply no matter what time your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or, alternatively, please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost. Your tour guide (or hotel staff) will confirm the time of your airport transfer with you directly.
Arrive home today after your amazing adventure, we hope you have been Inspired!
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades
Please specify this as a 'Special Request' when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare. In the event your selection is unavailable, or that you are dissatisfied with the quote, you will be provided with a full refund.
Land Only discount
A reduction of $1,000 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares and transfers. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
If arranging your own airfares, we cannot offer a private airport transfer service for you, therefore you will be required to make your own way from & to the airport at your own expense. You may choose to book a shared transfer service independently, get a taxi on arrival or travel by train. For advice, you may speak to your Dedicated Support Agent.
Extending Your Stay
If you wish to extend your stay either pre or post-tour, please select the Land Only option at time of check-out, whereby you will be required to make your own international airfare and airport transfer arrangements. Unfortunately, we cannot assist in amending your airfares outside of the standard package. We can however arrange additional nights' accommodation for you upon request. Please refer to "Extra Services" below.
You can enhance your package by choosing some of the following extra services available for this package:
Pre and post-tour accommodation
If choosing Land Only and arranging your own flights, we can arrange additional nights accommodation and transfers for you where required:
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation and/or airport transfers. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability. Alternatively, you may purchase 1 pre or post-night accommodation, at time of booking.
Arrival and departure airport shuttle transfers
For this package, we cannot offer a private airport transfer service for you, therefore you will be required to make your own way from & to the airport at your own expense. You may choose to book a shared transfer service independently, get a taxi on arrival or travel by train. For advice, you may speak to your Dedicated Support Agent.
Airport chauffeur
Take the hassle out of getting to the airport with private chauffeur transfers to and from your home airport. Your personal chauffeur will meet and greet you, attend to your luggage and drive you to your destination in a luxury vehicle.
Additional surcharges may apply depending on pick-up time, tolls and government levies.
Airport Chauffeur can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Airport lounges
Escape busy airport terminals and relax at a cosy and catered lounge instead. Departure lounge access in Sydney $70 per person (up to 6 hours); Melbourne & Brisbane $55 per person (up to 3 hours).
Airport lounge passes can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
To enhance your journey, we're offering a choice of the following optional activities:
Transportation to all optionals included by train, independently.
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”.
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Suggested amount for your guide, 500Y per person per day. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1600 per person in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Australian passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Japan, for stays less than 90 days.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including, e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
15-20 people
Trip Style - Group Tour
Our Group Tours offer unparalleled value for money and are the perfect style of travel for those on a budget, though still eager to pack as much in to their itinerary as possible. These tours tick all the boxes with an abundance of inclusions such as sightseeing highlights, expert tour guides, quality accommodation, transfers, coach transportation, some meals and more. Please note that the maximum group size will vary between deals and will be mentioned within the Fine Print of each deal page.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).
For more information on the weather in Japan, click HERE.
Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase:
For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.
All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Transferrable second installment up until 90 days before scheduled departure:
Following the second installment payment and up until 90 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.
Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details
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