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The 18-Day Cultural Japan Tour Package is a comprehensive journey through Japan’s rich heritage, blending historical landmarks, traditional crafts, and natural wonders. Your adventure begins in Tokyo, where you’ll explore the iconic Imperial Palace Gardens, savour fresh delicacies at Tsukiji Fish Market, and witness sumo wrestlers in action. In Kamakura, visit sacred shrines and temples before heading to Nagano, where you can marvel at snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs.
The tour continues through Matsumoto, home to the famous Matsumoto Castle, and Kanazawa, where you’ll experience an evening tour and enjoy a delicious full-course dinner. The beauty of Shirakawa-go’s village life and the artisan crafts of Takayama will captivate you, while the mouth-watering street food in Nagoya will leave a lasting impression.
In Kyoto, travel by bullet train and enjoy an intimate dining experience with a maiko geisha apprentice at a traditional Ryokan inn. Explore the city’s highlights, including the iconic Golden Pavilion and the peaceful Nara Park. The journey concludes in Hiroshima, where history, peace, and nature converge, with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Miyajima Island.
This 18-day tour offers the perfect balance of culture, history, and nature. With expert guides and seamless transfers, it’s an unforgettable journey that will leave you with lasting memories of Japan’s charm.
Arrive in Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital, where you’ll start your adventure. After your included transfer, settle into your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax or begin exploring nearby areas at your leisure. Tokyo offers a blend of modern energy and traditional charm, setting the stage for an exciting journey.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Start your exploration with a visit to the serene Imperial Palace Gardens and enjoy the beautiful views of Nijubashi Bridge. Head to Asakusa and visit the famous Senso-ji Temple, then shop along Nakamise-dori street. In the afternoon, explore the Meiji Jingu Shrine, stroll through the vibrant Harajuku district, and witness the iconic Shibuya Crossing.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Spend the morning touring a local sumo studio, where you’ll watch a live sumo session and, if you wish, try your hand at a mock sumo match. Afterward, join a cooking class and prepare Chankonabe, a traditional sumo stew made with chicken dumplings. This hands-on experience will give you a true taste of Japan’s unique culture.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Explore the 300-year-old Buddhist temple, where you’ll learn about Japan’s spiritual history. Then, dive into the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market, sampling fresh seafood such as sashimi bowls and bite-sized treats. Cap off your day with stunning views of the market and city from a secret observatory deck.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Take a day trip to Kamakura, where you’ll explore sacred shrines and temples. Walk along scenic pathways, visit a shrine famous for its money-related traditions, and hike through the lush forest to see the iconic Great Buddha statue. Savor local Kamakura dishes like udon and vegetable curry before wandering down the charming Komachi-dori Street.
Overnight in Tokyo.
Board the bullet train to Nagano, surrounded by scenic mountains and famous for its historic temples and natural hot springs. After settling in, take time to explore the area or relax in preparation for the exciting adventures to come.
Overnight in Nagano.
Start the day with a visit to Zenkoji Temple, a revered Buddhist site, followed by a sake tasting at a nearby brewery. Enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties like hot pot and sushi. In the afternoon, head to Snow Monkey Park, where you can walk forest trails and watch the famous snow monkeys soaking in the onsen.
Overnight in Nagano.
Travel to Matsumoto, where you’ll visit the iconic Matsumoto Castle and climb to the top for stunning views. Spend time exploring Nawate-dori street, known for its quirky frog-themed shops, and take a scenic drive to Narai-juku, a well-preserved post-town. End the day with a visit to Shizume Shrine, nestled in a cedar forest.
Overnight in Nagano.
Take the bullet train to Kanazawa and enjoy an evening tour of the city’s Geisha districts. Discover the charm of these traditional areas and enjoy a private, full-course dinner of miso soup and your choice of a main course, accompanied by local beverages and dessert.
Overnight in Kanazawa.
Explore Kanazawa’s Samurai District, visiting traditional houses and the Ninja Temple with its hidden passages. Relax in the peaceful Kenrokuen Gardens and finish the day by strolling through Omicho Market, known for its fresh produce and unique foods.
Overnight in Kanazawa.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage village of Shirakawa-go at your leisure. Visit the Gokayama district, where you’ll discover traditional thatched-roof houses and wander through tranquil village streets. Enjoy a delicious lunch during your free time, and take in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic village.
Overnight in Kanazawa.
Travel by bus to Takayama, a city known for its historic old town. Explore the charming Sanmachi Suji district, filled with traditional wooden buildings. Stroll through the bustling local shopping arcades and enjoy a delicious local meal.
Overnight in Takayama Ryokan.
Visit Takayama’s morning market to sample fresh produce and unique local delicacies. Walk through the old town, admiring the intricate Takayama Festival Floats. Later, embark on an artisan tour, where you’ll learn about Edo-period craftsmanship and visit shops showcasing traditional art forms like Shunkeinuri lacquerware.
Overnight in Takayama Ryokan.
Take the train to Nagoya and indulge in a food tour where you’ll visit local izakayas and sample regional drinks and dishes. Explore hidden spots that most visitors miss and enjoy a taste of the city’s culinary scene.
Overnight in Nagoya.
Travel to Kyoto by bullet train and explore the traditional streets of Gion. Meet a maiko apprentice and learn about the art of geisha culture. Enjoy a special dinner, including all-you-can-drink beverages, Kyoto cuisine, and a traditional dance performance.
Overnight in Kyoto Ryokan.
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Later, visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji Temple) before heading to Nara, where you’ll explore Nara Park and visit the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple.
Overnight in Kyoto Ryokan.
Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima and visit the World Heritage site of Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima, known for its iconic floating torii gate. In Hiroshima, explore the Peace Memorial Park and visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, a symbol of the city’s resilience.
Overnight in Kyoto Ryokan.
Enjoy your last day in Japan with optional transfers to Kansai Airport (KIX) or a bullet train transfer back to Tokyo for your departure. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ve made throughout your journey.
Price & Availability:
Kindly be advised that all reservations are contingent upon availability and will be officially confirmed within 24 hours of receiving your booking request. Our prices are denominated in Australian dollars, and any currency conversions will be processed at midnight daily. Given the fluctuating nature of exchange rates, prices are subject to change until we receive full payment.
Self-Guided Packages Terms and Conditions:
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed to offer travellers complete flexibility, while providing the convenience of a carefully planned and proven itinerary that has been enjoyed by thousands of clients. These packages give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with the added benefit of local expertise through selected group tours and optional private experiences.
Accommodation Flexibility:
Accommodation options within the itinerary are flexible. Travellers can mix and match different star ratings in each location to suit their preferences and budget. If a selected hotel is unavailable at the time of booking, we will provide an alternative of similar standard and location.
Day Tours and Excursions:
Included day excursions are group tours, typically accommodating between 10 and 30 participants. These tours are guided by experienced local guides who offer valuable insights into each destination. Please note that, like most day tour experiences in Japan, group tours do not include hotel pick-up. Travellers will be required to make their own way to a designated meeting point where they will join the guide and tour group. If you prefer the convenience of hotel pick-up and a fully personalised experience, you have the option to upgrade to a private tour with your own dedicated guide. Additional charges will apply for private tours and are subject to availability.
Booking on Request:
Please note that all reservations are processed upon request. A deposit may be required to request the room. Confirmation will be provided within 24 hours of your booking inquiry. If your preferred dates are unavailable, we’ll suggest suitable alternatives or promptly refund your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing:
Please be aware that many hotels in Japan operate on dynamic pricing. Due to high demand, particularly during peak seasons, room rates can fluctuate based on occupancy levels. As a result, prices may change from the time of your original quote until payment is received and the booking is confirmed.
We recommend securing your accommodation as early as possible to lock in the quoted rates. If your selected accommodation is no longer available at the time of booking, we will offer alternative options of similar cost, comfort level, and location whenever possible.
Itinerary Order and Availability:
Please note that the order of the itinerary may be subject to change to ensure availability of accommodation and day tour experiences. While we aim to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, slight adjustments may be necessary depending on availability at the time of booking.
The final order of day tours and activities will be confirmed and locked in once your booking is secured. For bookings made outside of peak travel periods and with sufficient lead time, itinerary changes are unlikely. However, during busy seasons or for last-minute bookings, some flexibility may be required to accommodate availability.
Rest assured, any adjustments will be made with the aim of maintaining the quality and overall experience of your journey.
Payment Terms:
Should an additional deposit be necessary after your booking confirmation, you will receive a notification. However, please note that full payment for the guest stay is prepaid and must be settled at least 45 days before the arrival date.
Changes & Cancellation
Deposit is non-refundable once the booking is confirmed.
Changes are permitted up to 35 days prior to departure.
Cancellation fees of 100% will be incurred within 35 days of arrival, unless otherwise stated.
Please note that any Train tickets and Flight tickets part of your itinerary will be non-refundable once confirmed.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.