Classic Cultural Japan - 15 days
Classic Cultural Japan - 15 days
Classic Cultural Japan - 15 days
15 Days Starting and ending in Tokyo
Visiting: Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Kinosaki Onsen, Himeji, Hakone
Tour operator:
Group size:
2 - 14
Age range:
Minimum age: 6 years, accompanied by an adult
Trip Styles:
Tour Overview
Uncover Japan's classic highlights on this 2-week escorted tour from Tokyo. See Senso-ji and the lovely Hamarikyu Gardens, explore ancient Kyoto and enjoy tea with a trainee geisha. Take in the highlights of Kanazawa, stay in a traditional ryokan and stay in the hot spring town of Kinosaki Onsen. Discover the lesser-visited Kyotango Peninsula, see the Peace Park Memorial in Hiroshima and explore charming Miyajima Island. Admire Himeji Castle, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji in Hakone, and end your journey back in Tokyo.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Welcome to Tokyo, the capital of Japan and the most populous city in the world. You will be greeted by a driver and taken to our hotel in the lively Ginza district by private taxi. Our tour leader will be waiting to welcome you in the lobby.
After settling in, join the group for an orientation meeting followed by a delicious first-night meal at a local restaurant, providing a taste of Japanese cuisine and dining customs.
Day 2 starts with a relaxing walk through the picturesque Hamarikyu Gardens, offering a serene escape from the urban landscape. The afternoon will be filled with visits to historic sites such as Senso-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and Meiji Jingu, the revered Shinto shrine in the heart of the city.
Accommodation: Gate Hotel Tokyo or similar
Day 3-4: Kanazawa
Location: Kanazawa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Tokyo - Kanazawa. Departing Tokyo on the morning of day 3, we board the bullet train to Kanazawa on the Japan Sea Coast. Unlike many cities in Japan, Kanazawa was fortunate to avoid bombing during World War II, allowing it to maintain a rich collection of religious sites and cultural assets. Renowned for its exceptional seafood, you can indulge in a delicious optional sushi or fish meal with our tour leader this evening.
On day 4 we will be accompanied by a local guide and our tour leader for an in-depth exploration of Kanazawa's finest attractions. Highlights include the historic geisha district of Higashi Chaya, the samurai quarter with its preserved houses, a gold leaf workshop showcasing traditional craftsmanship, and the famous Kenrokuen garden, regarded as one of Japan's top three gardens. Ample time will be provided to fully appreciate the beauty of Kenrokuen. If you still have energy after the tour, consider visiting the local market or the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
Accommodation: Hyatt Centric Kanazawa or similar
Day 5-7: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Kanazawa - Kyoto. With over a thousand years as the imperial capital, Kyoto boasts 17 World Heritage Sites, along with numerous shrines, temples, and gardens. We arrive in Kyoto on day 5 after a scenic train ride along Lake Biwa, and we begin our exploration aty lesser-known attractions such as the Nishiki Food Market and Kyoto station complex. Later, experience traditional Japanese culture in Gion, the hub of geisha culture, with a tea ceremony performed by a maiko (trainee geisha).
On day 6, a local Kyoto expert will guide us on a private coach tour to must-see spots like Arashiyama, Ryoanji Rock Garden, and either the Golden Pavilion of Kinkakuji or the Silver Pavilion of Ginkakuji. With our guide's help, we explore both famous landmarks and hidden gems. Day 7 is at leisure in the city. You can choose between further Kyoto exploration or a day trip to destinations like Nara, known for its giant Buddha and friendly deer. Our tour leader can assist with planning.
Accommodation: Hotel Higashiyama or similar
Day 8-9: Kinosaki Onsen
Location: Kinosaki Onsen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kyoto - Kinosaki Onsen. Enjoy a relaxing morning on day 8, before we board a train to Kinosaki Onsen, known for its seven mystical hot springs. Many visitors seek to bathe in all seven to experience the healing properties of the sacred waters. After exploring the charming town in the afternoon, indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner at our ryokan accommodation.
The next day, a private coach will take us to the Kyotango Peninsula, where we will encounter stunning landscapes and local artisans. Visit a swordsmith specializing in katana and an artisan skilled in weaving mother-of-pearl into intricate kimono designs. Following lunch, admire Amanohashidate, considered one of Japan's top three scenic views. The sandbar stretches across Miyazu Bay, resembling a "staircase to heaven." We'll have the opportunity to cross the bay by boat, foot, or bicycle before returning to the ryokan for dinner via private bus.
Accommodation: Nishimuraya Shogetsutei or similar
Day 10-11: Himeji
Location: Himeji
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kinosaki Onsen - Himeji - Hirtoshima. Departing on day 10, we embark on a private coach journey to Himeji to marvel at the World Heritage castle, a well-preserved feudal structure. Following this, we board the bullet train to Hiroshima, where the Peace Memorial Park and Museum stand as powerful reminders of the events of August 6, 1945.
On day 11, we explore the Peace Memorial Museum before taking a boat trip from the Peace Park to Miyajima, an island on the Seto Inland Sea. Apart from its famous World Heritage Shrine and "floating" torii gate, Miyajima offers a charming town centre and the chance to interact with the local deer population.
Accommodation: Hilton Hiroshima or similar
Day 12-13: Hakone
Location: Hakone
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiroshima - Hakone. We board the bullet train and head east to Hakone, a picturesque national park near Tokyo. Visit the exceptional Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing masterpieces by artists such as Moore and Rodin against a backdrop of majestic mountains. A high-quality dinner is included in the tour tonight.
Day 13 is free to discover all that Hakone has to offer. Sail across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, try a black egg boiled in volcanic hot spring water, ride a cable car up the mountainside, and luxuriate in the area's renowned hot spring baths. Hakone is also renowned for its unrivalled views of Mount Fuji, offering a chance for breathtaking views of Japan's most famous natural landmark.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Hakone or similar
Day 14-15: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Hakone - Tokyo. On day 14, we embark on a final train journey back to Tokyo. Spend your time in the capital exploring Shinjuku, known for its vibrant shopping and entertainment scene. Take in the sights at Shinjuku Gyoen Park or do some last-minute shopping at one of the district's department stores, it's up to you! In the evening, enjoy an included final-night meal with your tour leader and group at one of the city's superb restaurants.
The following morning, bid farewell to Japan as you are transported to the airport in a private car for your journey home.
Accommodation: Century Southern Tower or similar
Day 8-9: Kinosaki Onsen
Location: Kinosaki Onsen
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kinosaki Onsen (2) (ryokan)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kyoto - Kinosaki Onsen. Enjoy a relaxing morning on day 8, before we board a train to Kinosaki Onsen, known for its seven mystical hot springs. Many visitors seek to bathe in all seven to experience the healing properties of the sacred waters. After exploring the charming town in the afternoon, indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner at our ryokan accommodation.
The next day, a private coach will take us to the Kyotango Peninsula, where we will encounter stunning landscapes and local artisans. Visit a swordsmith specializing in katana and an artisan skilled in weaving mother-of-pearl into intricate kimono designs. Following lunch, admire Amanohashidate, considered one of Japan's top three scenic views. The sandbar stretches across Miyazu Bay, resembling a "staircase to heaven." We'll have the opportunity to cross the bay by boat, foot, or bicycle before returning to the ryokan for dinner via private bus.
Accommodation: Nishimuraya Shogetsutei or similar
Day 10-11: Himeji
Location: Himeji
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Hiroshima (2)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kinosaki Onsen - Himeji - Hirtoshima. Departing on day 10, we embark on a private coach journey to Himeji to marvel at the World Heritage castle, a well-preserved feudal structure. Following this, we board the bullet train to Hiroshima, where the Peace Memorial Park and Museum stand as powerful reminders of the events of August 6, 1945.
On day 11, we explore the Peace Memorial Museum before taking a boat trip from the Peace Park to Miyajima, an island on the Seto Inland Sea. Apart from its famous World Heritage Shrine and "floating" torii gate, Miyajima offers a charming town centre and the chance to interact with the local deer population.
Accommodation: Hilton Hiroshima or similar
Day 12-13: Hakone
Location: Hakone
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Hakone (2)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiroshima - Hakone. We board the bullet train and head east to Hakone, a picturesque national park near Tokyo. Visit the exceptional Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing masterpieces by artists such as Moore and Rodin against a backdrop of majestic mountains. A high-quality dinner is included in the tour tonight.
Day 13 is free to discover all that Hakone has to offer. Sail across Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, try a black egg boiled in volcanic hot spring water, ride a cable car up the mountainside, and luxuriate in the area's renowned hot spring baths. Hakone is also renowned for its unrivalled views of Mount Fuji, offering a chance for breathtaking views of Japan's most famous natural landmark.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Hakone or similar
Day 14-15: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Tokyo (1)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Hakone - Tokyo. On day 14, we embark on a final train journey back to Tokyo. Spend your time in the capital exploring Shinjuku, known for its vibrant shopping and entertainment scene. Take in the sights at Shinjuku Gyoen Park or do some last-minute shopping at one of the district's department stores, it's up to you! In the evening, enjoy an included final-night meal with your tour leader and group at one of the city's superb restaurants.
The following morning, bid farewell to Japan as you are transported to the airport in a private car for your journey home.
Accommodation: Century Southern Tower or similar
What's Included
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Accommodation
4-star hotels -
14 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners
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12 nights 4 star hotels, 2 night ryokan stay in Kinosaki Onsen
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Escorted by a tour leader
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Private arrival transfer on day 1 and private departure transfer on day 15
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All relevant transportation and transfers including by minibus, coach and train
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IC transport card with 2,500 yen (YSD $16) credit for city transport
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Full-day private guide service in Kanazawa, Kyoto & Kyotango Peninsula
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Entrance to Hamarikyu Gardens
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Afternoon tea with a maiko (trainee geisha)
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'Kaiseki' dinner at Kinosaki Onsen ryokan
What's Not Included
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International flights
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Any local transport (subways, taxis, buses) unless covered by the included transport passes
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Entrance fees (including those for temples, shrines and museums) unless otherwise specified
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Baggage handling and luggage forwarding unless otherwise specified
Check out our Q&As
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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