17 Day Authentic Japan
This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
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.
✓ Return international airfares with the world’s best airline, Singapore Airlines
✓ Return airport transfers
✓ 15 nights in quality 3 and 4-star accommodation
✓ Daily breakfast and an authentic Kaiseki dinner
✓ In-depth discovery of Western Japan
✓ Cruise several of Japan’s beautiful lakes
✓ Ride the iconic Japanese bullet train
✓ Fully escorted with an English-speaking guide throughout
✓ Incredible sightseeing including entry fees – Breathtaking Mount Fuji, beautiful temples, shrines and castles like the UNESCO sites Nijõ Castle and Golden Pavilion
✓ Comfortable, dedicated private transportation throughout
✓ 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.
Today, board your international flight to Japan! On arrival you will be welcomed by your tour guide and transferred to your first night's hotel.
Please note: Some flights might depart the night prior.
Begin your tour of this beautiful country by you'll visiting the stunning Osaka Castle, which played a major role in the unification of Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period in the sixteenth century. From here you'll be heading to the districts of Namba and Shinsaibashi, which are Osaka's premier shopping districts, full of boutiques, designer outlets, restaurants and bars.
After exploring this area, head to Dōtonbori, one of Osaka's most popular tourist destinations, running parallel to the Dōtonbori canal, and a place that's packed with shops, bars, street food and entertainment. At night the streets here are illuminated by hundreds of colourful neon lights and mechanised signs, including the famous running Glico Man sign and the Kani Doraku crab sign.
This afternoon we'll continue on to Kyoto and on-route you will visit the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine. Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii (shrine gates), which straddle a network of trails behind its main temples, the Fushimi Inari Shrine is incredibly photogenic. The trails lead into the forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which stands at 233m and belongs to the shrine grounds. Fushimi Inari is the most important of several thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. During the Heian Period (794-1185 CE) the shrine was under imperial patronage, before being elevated to the highest rank of Shinto Shrine in 942 CE. To this day it remains one of the most important shrines in Japan and one of the most picturesque, with around 10,000 torii gates.
Arrive at your hotel in the early evening where you can enjoy the rest of the night at leisure.
Today you'll begin what promises to be a very memorable visit to Kyoto, the imperial capital of Japan for more than a century; it's a historic, cultural and religious centre with more than 1600 temples and shrines.
First off, we'll visit Arashiyama, a stunning area known for its thick bamboo forest, which is also designated by the Japanese government as a Place of Scenic Beauty. Next we'll visit Kinkaku-ji, otherwise known as the Golden Pavillion. This is a Zen temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold. The site is set within a beautiful classical Zen garden. The detailed architecture of Kinkaku-ji incorporates three distinct architectural styles – Shinden, Samurai, and Zen.
Later in the afternoon, we will visit the breathtaking Nijō Castle. Constructed in the 17th century under the orders of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nijō Castle's buildings are arguably the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture of Japan's feudal era, and as such it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. You'll then be visiting Heian Jingu, or Heian Shinto Shrine, a replica of an ancient imperial palace and a symbol of the rebirth of Kyoto after World War II – the enormous vermillion orange tori gate is unforgettable.
You will return to the hotel at approximately 6pm where you can have the rest of the evening at leisure.
This morning following breakfast, we depart your hotel to begin the journey to Takamatsu. At approximately 11am, the group will have a scheduled rest stop with some time to purchase lunch and stretch your legs. As we continue you will head to the city of Naruto to board our cruise that takes in a fascinating natural phenomenon – tidal whirlpools. Here in the Naruto Strait, which connects the Pacific Ocean and the Inland Sea, the whirlpools can measure up to 20 metres in diameter.
After our cruise we'll finish the day relaxing in the Shikoku Mura, an open-air architectural park that houses more than twenty buildings that date back to the Edo period. Take a leisurely stroll around and immerse yourself in the rich architectural history of Japan. Later, you will also visit Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu, an exceptionally well-manicured space punctuated with small bridges and winding footpaths, plus a tea house. One of the most famous historical gardens in Japan, Ritsurin was built around the 17th century among the hills of Takamatsu.
Arrive to your hotel in Takamatsu at approximately 6.30pm and enjoy the evening at leisure.
This morning, we'll call in at Dōgo Onsen, believed to be the oldest hot spring in Japan with a history that stretches back more than 1000 years. Dōgo Onsen has provided a place of relaxation for many famous Japanese writers and poets over the years, as well as for the Emperor. It is also famous for being the inspiration behind the Japanese animated movie Spirited Away.
Next we'll visit Matsuyama Castle, which astonishingly remains in its original state, unlike many others across the country that have been rebuilt. Constructed in the early 1600s, the castle keep still dominates the city skyline today.
Continuing on, we will stop in Misaki to then board the ferry to Beppu. You will arrive at your hotel at approximately 8pm in the evening. Rest up tonight, for another incredible day of sightseeing tomorrow.
The highlight of today might just be our first port of call – the Hells of Beppu. Comprised of seven spectacular hot springs, these onsen are a sight to behold. Surrounded by greenery, the Hells of Beppu are designed for viewing rather than bathing.
Next we'll continue on to Nagasaki, famous for its cultural and historical heritage. This coastal city is not only the birthplace of Christianity in Japan, it is also the first point of contact with foreign traders and merchants in the 17th century. Our visit to the city will begin at the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, where we'll learn the devastating effects of the atomic bomb dropped here on August 9, 1945. Pay homage to the victims of the atomic bomb at Nagasaki Peace Park.
This morning after breakfastk, it is a short drive to visit the magnificent Glover Garden, built in 1863 and known for its famous picturesque garden and collection of Western-style houses.
From here, we'll visit the oldest church in Japan, built shortly after the end of the seclusion policy in 1853, also known as the Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs of Japan. Throughout our visit to Nagasaki, we'll recognise the city's numerous Western influences; Nagasaki was the first city to import Western art, music, religion and food, among other things.
Enjoy some free time to get some lunch near Dutch Hill, before we enjoy a cruise around the fascinating Hashima Island, or Gunkanjima. An isle situated 15km from Nagasaki, Hashima was once used for coal mining but its concrete buildings were abandoned in 1974. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has even featured in films such as Skyfall.
From here, we'll head to Dejima, a fan-shaped artificial island that was built to first segregate Portuguese traders from the local population, then later to separate Nagasaki's inhabitants from the Dutch.
Arrive back to your hotel at approximately 6.30pm anf enjoy the evening at leisure.
This morning following breakfastm we begin the day with a tour of the Suwa-jinja, a major Shinto shrine built in the early 1600s. Suwa was constructed in the hopes of preventing more locals from converting to Christianity.
Following this, enjoy some free time nearby to Asobo Market where you can get something delicious for lunch. Later we'll head to Karatsu, where we'll visit the intriguing 'Seven Pots' Caves, known locally as Nanatsugama. Formed over many years from the rough waves of the Genkai Sea, which have slowly eroded the basalt into seven distinct chambers.
Before reaching our hotel in the city of Fukuoka, we'll pass through Yobuko, a town full of legends that was once a prosperous whaling base. Arrive to your hotel at approximately 5pm to enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Today we'll head to Hiroshima, a modern city on Japan’s Honshū Island, which was largely destroyed by an atomic bomb during World War II.
Our day will begin with a short ferry ride to the isle of Miyajima. Known for its lush forests, ancient temples, and freely roaming sika deer, this island is just as popular with Japanese tourists as it is with international visitors. Just offshore we'll spy a 'floating' vermillion torii, which becomes partially submerged at high tide. It marks the entrance to the Itsukushima Shrine, which was first built in the 12th century.
Take the ferry back to Hiroshima and you will be transferred to your hotel. This evening, you have the choice to paritipate in an optional tour.
Following an early breakfast, we'll start our visit at the Atomic Bomb Dome, which was once the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. Otherwise known as the Genbaku Dome, or the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, this shell of a building was one of very few left standing after the United States bombed Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, claiming the lives of some 140,000 people. In Hiroshima today, locals have mixed feelings about the UNESCO World Heritage-listed structure: some see it as a reminder of war, while others consider it a tribute to the lost that ensures we'll never forget the tragic events that took place here.
Later we'll travel to Kurashiki, a city famed for its very traditional, centuries-old buildings, which are found within the Bikan Historical Quarter.
Next on our agenda is the famous Himeji Castle, the largest surviving example of a traditional Japanese castle. Comprising 83 buildings, the white roof of this UNESCO-registered complex is said to evoke the wings of a heron taking flight, hence the popular name ‘Shirasagi-jō’, meaning White Heron Castle.
This evening, you'll have the choice to participate in an optional tour.
This morning we’ll visit the stunning Kenrokuen Garden – one of the most beautiful in Japan. Developed over more than 200 years, starting in 1620, the garden contains almost 9000 trees and 200 plant species.
Later we'll also visit Nomura Samurai House, the historic residence of the Nomura Samurai clan. The intriguing house and grounds provide an insight into the lifestyle of the samurai, or military nobility, during the 16-19th centuries. The residence features beautiful architecture, gardens and décor, such as intricately painted screen doors.
We'll finish the day in the Higashi Chaya District of Kanazawa, a beautifully preserved and picturesque area that was historically home to many teahouses where geisha would perform traditional arts, dance, songs and games. The tradition still continues to this day, with geisha undergoing years of training before being able to entertain guests.
This morning we'll travel to Shirakawa-gō Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has more than 100 'Gassho-style' houses, which feature steeply-pitched roofs. Built many hundreds of years ago, these historic houses stand together in a beautiful natural setting. From the site’s observation deck you can enjoy a panoramic view of this unique village, its thatched-roof houses sitting among gorgeous mountain scenery.
From here we'll head to Takayama’s Old Town, a wonderfully well-preserved slice of old Japan, with houses and shops dating back to the Edo period (1600-1868). As well as the charming architecture, there are several quaint cafés and a number of old saké breweries to explore.
After breakfast we'll head to Matsumoto where we'll visit Matsumoto Castle, also known as ‘Crow Castle’ due to its dramatic black exterior. It is listed as a National Treasure of Japan and was built in the 1500s.
From here we'll continue to Mount Fuji's 5th Station, which is halfway up the active volcano. At 3776m high, Mount Fuji is the country’s tallest peak and it is considered one of Japan’s three holy mountains. Here, above the clouds, we'll view the mountain’s enormous summit if weather permits.
Later this afternoon we'll arrive in Hakone and stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan, or inn, complete with hot springs. Here we can enjoy the famous kaiseki – a traditional, multi-course meal that is meticulously prepared and typically demonstrates numerous cooking techniques.
We'll start our day with a scenic board ride on Lake Ashi. The lake sits within the caldera of Mount Hakone, and is famed for its views of Mount Fuji. Boats inspired by western warships cruise the scenic lake, and the picturesque, forested region has been popular with hikers and sightseers for centuries.
Next, we visit to the Hakone open-air museum, which is home to more than a thousand sculptures and works of art from both Japanese and international artists such as Picasso and Henry Moore.
Later we'll board the the famous shinkansen, or bullet train, which runs at speeds up to 320 km/h. The shinkansen is known for its punctuality down to the second, as well as its comfort and safety.
Today enjoy a full-day coach tour of Tokyo, Japan's capital and the world’s most populated megalopolis – the Tokyo metropolitan area spreads over three prefectures with 38 million habitants. We'll begin our tour of this sprawling city with a visit to the outer fish market, the world’s biggest wholesale fish market and the largest wholesale food market in the world.
Next we'll explore Imperial Palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Built on the site of the old Edo castle, it is surrounded by large park areas, moats and massive stone walls, and come cherry blossom season it is blanketed in a sea of pink blooms.
Following this, visit the district of Asakusa and the Sensō-ji Temple. This is Tokyo’s oldest temple, and it's dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. On the approach to Sensō-ji is Nakamise Shopping Street, a centuries-old promenade of shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs like kimonos and bottles of saké. You will have some time for lunch in Asakusa.
Aftewards we'll stop at the Tokyo Skytree. Open since May 2012, the Skytree is principally a television and radio broadcast site, though it also contains a restaurant and two viewing platforms. At 634m, it's among the tallest structures in the world.
Arrive back to your hotel in Tokyo at approximately 6.30pm to enjoy your final moments in this fascinating country!
Today marks the end of your incredible tour through Japan. At the appropriate time, you will board the shuttle to transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your stay to enjoy more of this beautiful country.
Arrive home today.
Enjoy traditional Japanese Kaiseki cuisine with a multi course meal mixing the freshest ingredients from the sea and the mountains.
Some dates operate in reverse. Please refer to the departure date list. Please click here for the reverse itinerary.
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 $800 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
If you have chosen to deviate your stay or if you have requested specific flights that do not match the group arrival and departure times, you will forfeit the airport transfer services. 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.
How to extend your stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
Please note, a supplement of $150 per person (plus any applicable fare and tax differences) applies to deviate from the standard itinerary. We will contact you via email with a quote and proposed flight itinerary, and then proceed with collecting the additional payment required to confirm your request.
Singapore Stopover Package
You may wish to stopover in Singapore before or after your tour. Includes:
3 nights at the 4 star Furama Riverfront or similar
Breakfast daily
Return airport transfers
Cost - $499 per person Twin Share ($998 Single Share).
If you wish to book the Singapore stopover package before or after your tour, please select this under 'Upgrade Options' before completing your booking. You will then be invoiced for this in your final payment.
The $150pp extension supplement does not apply if selecting this option.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
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.
Pre and post tour accommodation (deviating from group flights forfeits your group airport transfers)
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.
Arrival and departure airport transfers
If you have chosen to deviate your stay or if you have requested specific flights that do not match the group arrival and departure times, you will forfeit the airport transfer services. 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 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.
You may purchase the following optional programs to enrich your experience.
** Please note: These tours operate at similar times, which means you may only choose one option on this day.
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.
Optional Tour Bundle
Make the most of your experience in Japan and purchase an optional tour bundle. These optional tours have been hand-picked by our staff and based on our customers personal favourites.
$130 per person.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure. 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, therefore we suggest you book before you go to avoid disappointment. We appreciate your understanding.
Please note that transportation to and from each optional tour is not included in the price. You will be required to make your own way to the starting point of the optional tour, as well as back to your hotel. Your tour guide can provide you with the direction and guidance needed to make your own way.
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 “4”:
4 – Active Tour: A very good level of fitness and mobility is required for you to enjoy all aspects of the itinerary, as this is considered a fast-paced tour. While there is some free time scheduled either in the morning or afternoon, there are many full days of sightseeing with minimal rest and some early starts. You will be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach 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. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
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.
Twin Share Bedding Configuration
At any time, bedding configuration is subject to confirmation by the hotel and based on availability. While you have the option to select either twin or double bedding at time of booking, our recommendation when travelling to Japan is to choose twin bedding, as the rooms are often bigger than those that have a double bed. If insisting on double bedding, please note that the rooms will be smaller and more narrow. As a general expectation, we cannot always guarantee bedding at all hotel stays.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,500 person in addition to the twin share price.
Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this deal that you will receive a single room, which is smaller in size than a twin/double room. Unfortunately this is typical for Japan, as the cost to solely occupy a double/twin size room is incredibly high. We appreciate your understanding.
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 travellers responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from your intended date of return to Australia.
Australian passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Japan.
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. Visa's should not be applied for before receiving your final documentation.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including e-tickets and hotel details will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
20-40 people
Trip Style - Group Tour
Unparalleled value for money is the name of the game. These tours tick all the boxes with loads of inclusions: sightseeing highlights, quality accommodation, transfers, private transportation, breakfasts and some meals. You will be travelling with up to 40 Inspiring Vacations guests and the tour will be escorted by an expert, local tour leader.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent in flight and is subject to change depending on the flight schedule, please refer to the day by day itinerary for the time spent on land.
Luggage
You will be required to travel with your own luggage throughout this trip. The allowance is one per person, with a maximum weight of 23kg.
Cherry Blossom Dates
The cherry blossoms (Sakura) usually bloom in the last week of March and the first two weeks of April. Cherry blossoms are extremely seasonal and we can't guarantee they will bloom during your visit.
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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