Classic Japan
Classic Japan
$6095
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Classic Japan" tour, a captivating journey through Japan's vibrant cities and serene landscapes. Begin in Tokyo, where you'll explore the bustling Ameyoko Street Market and the historic Senso-ji Temple, before cruising along the Sumida River. Experience the majesty of Mt. Fuji and the cultural richness of Kyoto, with visits to the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple and the enchanting Arashiyama bamboo groves. In Nara, enjoy a unique lunch with a local farmer's family and explore the ancient Todai-ji Temple. Travel to Hiroshima to reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and visit the stunning Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Conclude your adventure in Osaka, with a scenic cruise on the Okawa River and panoramic views from the Umeda Sky Building. Throughout the tour, enjoy the comfort of cherry-picked hotels, expert guidance, and authentic cultural experiences, making this an unforgettable exploration of Japan's past and present. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Konnichiwa Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: New Otani Garden Tower
Accommodation Name: New Otani Garden Tower
Tokyo’s futuristic cityscape launches your journey through Japan’s modern centers and ancient capitals. On arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport, you’ll be transferred by airport shuttle to your hotel. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a drink with appetizers.
Day 2: Explore Vibrant Tokyo Dive Into Culture
Location: Tokyo, Ameyoko Street Market, Tokyo, Asakusa, Tokyo, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo, Sumida River, Tokyo, Hamarikyu Garden, Tokyo
Accommodation: New Otani Garden Tower
Accommodation Name: New Otani Garden Tower
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rub shoulders with the locals this morning as you Dive Into Culture and wander through Ameyoko Street Market, once a black market selling American goods after World War II. Continue to the old-time entertainment center of Asakusa to visit the Sensoji Buddhist Temple, which has been rebuilt countless times since its founding in 628, making it Tokyo’s oldest temple site. Take a stroll down Nakamise shopping street with some free time for lunch, then join a Local Specialist and learn the mesmerizing rhythmic art of Taiko drumming, one of Japan’s most popular cultural icons. Board a cruise along the Sumida River to admire Tokyo’s modern skyline, the traditional neighborhoods of old Edo and beautiful Hamarikyu Garden. Later, return to your hotel for time at leisure and dinner at a Sumo-themed izakaya restaurant.
Day 3: Majestic Mt. Fuji and Owakudani
Location: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Owakudani
Accommodation: New Otani Garden Tower
Accommodation Name: New Otani Garden Tower
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The towering slopes of snow-capped Mt. Fuji loom in the distance as you journey from Tokyo to this celebrated UNESCO-listed site. Admire spectacular views of the surrounding countryside from its 5th station, a magnificent vantage point at 2,300 meters (weather permitting). After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll continue to Owakudani to see the volcanic activity. Consider sampling the local black eggs boiled in geysers, then head back to the hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 4: Continue to Kyoto
Location: Tokyo, Kyoto, Gion District, Kyoto, Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto
Accommodation: The Hotel Higashiyama
Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave Tokyo, traveling by high-speed bullet train to Kyoto, another former capital of Japan and the center of Japanese culture for centuries. On arrival, you’ll embark on a walking tour of the Gion District, embracing the energy of Kawaramachi street. Visit Kinkakuji Temple, whose glittering golden pavilion is widely regarded as the symbol of Kyoto, before returning to the hotel for an evening of leisure.
Day 5: Discover Enchanting Kyoto
Location: Arashiyama, Kyoto, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kyoto, Tenryuji Temple, Kyoto, Nishiki Market, Kyoto
Accommodation: The Hotel Higashiyama
Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit one of Kyoto’s highlights—the historic and scenic district of Arashiyama, renowned for its cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring and its stunning landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the towering bamboo groves and see the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Connect with nature in the Zen gardens of Tenryuji Temple, then spend some free time at Nishiki Market, a traditional food market known to locals as “Kyoto’s Pantry.” Return to your hotel or consider joining an optional Japanese tea ceremony experience.
Day 6: Admire Ancient Nara Make Travel Matter
Location: Kyoto, Nara, Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, Kyoto
Accommodation: The Hotel Higashiyama
Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start the day off with a visit to Sumiyama Village and discover the stunning Kiyomizu Pottery which originated about 500 years ago in central Kyoto. Learn about the work of the craftsmen and about how they had to move out of the city and into a more rural area due to concerns from the local citizens about air pollution. Next 'Connect With Locals' over a 'Be My Guest' lunch with a local farmer at his home. Gain insights into the life of his family while sampling fresh tea and indulging in a delicious home-made meal, then visit his tea plantation. This afternoon delve into the ancient history of Nara, the first permanent capital city of Japan. Here you’ll visit the landmark Todaiji Temple, one of the powerful Seven Great Temples and home to one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha. Take a stroll around Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming tame deer before returning to Kyoto for an evening at leisure.
Day 7: Bullet Train to Hiroshima Dive Into Culture
Location: Hiroshima, Miyajima Island, Itsukushima Shrine
Accommodation: Rihga Royal
Accommodation Name: Rihga Royal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, board a high-speed bullet train to Hiroshima, a lively city that celebrates peace in the shadow of the previous century’s devastation. Your first stop is to a local restaurant where you’ll join our Local Specialist for an Okonomiyaki making experience. Mix your ingredients to make your own savory pancake and cook it on a hot plate before enjoying your creation for lunch. This afternoon, take the ferry to Miyajima Island to visit the famous UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine and elaborate torii gate rising majestically out of the sea. Learn how to make Momiji Manjyu, one of the local specialties, shaping your steamed bun as a maple leaf and filling it with sweet red bean paste. You’ll have an opportunity to sample your work before returning to Hiroshima by ferry.
Day 8: Experience Hiroshima
Location: Hiroshima, Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima
Accommodation: Rihga Royal
Accommodation Name: Rihga Royal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, head to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum and see the UNESCO-listed Peace Memorial, the only structure left standing when the first atomic bomb exploded in 1945. Take a moment to contemplate its symbolic expression of hope for world peace. Spend the afternoon at leisure or consider joining an Optional Experience.
Day 9: Onwards to Osaka
Location: Hiroshima, Osaka, Umeda Sky Building
Accommodation: Sheraton Miyako
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Miyako
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, take the high-speed bullet train to Osaka. On arrival embark on an orientation drive of the central city and your first glimpse of sights including the incredible Umeda Sky Building before checking in to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.
Day 10: See the Sights of Osaka
Location: Osaka, Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku Tower, Dotonbori, Tsuyunoten Shrine, Umeda Sky Building
Accommodation: Sheraton Miyako
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Miyako
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Gain a different perspective of Osaka’s landmark city sights, starting your day with a cruise on the ‘aqua-bus’ along Okawa River. Sail past the Japan Mint, City Hall, Nakanoshima and Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Visit the downtown district of Shinsekai to see the Tsutenkaku Tower, then continue to the Dotonbori Street area for some time at leisure. Delve into the star-crossed love story of Ohatsu and Tokubei during your visit to the Tsuyunoten Shrine in Umeda, associated with the Edo-period play ‘The Love Suicides of Sonezaki, which tells of the tragic double suicide that took place at the shrine in 1703. To this day, visitors write their prayers for success in love on special wooden plaques called ema, many of which bear the image of Ohatsu and Tokubei. Admire the panoramic views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory – an open-air viewing platform that straddles the two towers of the Umeda Sky Building. Later join your fellow guests and Travel Director for a dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 11: Sayonara Osaka
Location: Osaka
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey revealing Japan's past and present is at its end, take a transfer by airport shuttle service to Kansai International Airport or Osaka Itami Airport for your onward flight.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are all tried and trusted.
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Porterage and Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.
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Sightseeing and Extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are part of the tour.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury Transportation
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and Free Time
Optional experiences and free time are available during the tour.
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Hotel Standards
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Japan are not included in the tour package.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Japan are not included.
Dining Summary
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 2 Dinner (D)
- 4 Lunch (L)
Dive Into Culture
- Tokyo: Visit Ameyoko Street Market, once a black market selling American goods after World War II.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with air-conditioned coaches, high-speed bullet trains, and scenic cruises along the Sumida and Okawa Rivers, providing a seamless and comfortable journey through Japan's iconic cities and landscapes.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels throughout your journey in Japan, including the New Otani Garden Tower in Tokyo, The Hotel Higashiyama in Kyoto, Rihga Royal in Hiroshima, and Sheraton Miyako in Osaka, ensuring comfort and convenience at every stop.
Dive into Culture
- Tokyo: Visit Ameyoko Street Market, once a black market selling American goods after World War II.
Iconic Experience
- Tokyo: Visit Tokyo's renowned landmarks and gain insight into how this modern city preserves its ancient roots.
- Tokyo: Bask in the stunning skyline of Tokyo as you embark on your Sumida River Cruise.
- Tokyo: Spend some time learning the art of Taiko Drumming with your Local Specialist.
- Mt Fuji: Admire the stunning countryside at Mt. Fuji 5th Station.
- Tokyo: Jump aboard the high-speed Bullet Train towards the cultural hub of Kyoto.
- Kyoto: Admire the beautiful golden pavilion of Kinkakuji Temple.
- Kyoto: Take a walk through the beautiful landscapes of the Arashiyama District.
- Nara: Discover the tame deer as you explore Nara Park.
- Kyoto: Learn the art of Okonomiyaki making and savor your own creations for lunch.
- Miyajima: Discover the majestic Itsukushima Shrine and learn a new skill when you join a Local Specialist to practice making Momiji Manjyu.
- Hiroshima: Discover the rich history when you visit the Peace Memorial Museum and Park.
- Osaka: Embark on an orientation drive through the city of Osaka.
- Osaka: Discover Osaka's beautiful city landmarks as you embark on your Okawa River Cruise.
- Osaka: See the wonderful Tsutenkaku Tower, the Tusyunoten Shrine which holds the love story of Ohatsu and Tokubei, and then take the time to bask in the spectacuar views as you visit the Floating Garden Observatory.
Check out our Q&As
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What cultural experiences are included in the Classic Japan tour?
The Classic Japan tour includes several cultural experiences such as visiting the Ameyoko Street Market in Tokyo, learning the art of Taiko drumming, and participating in an Okonomiyaki making experience in Hiroshima. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to learn how to make Momiji Manjyu on Miyajima Island. ...more ...less
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What unique dining experiences are offered on this tour?
The tour offers a 'Be My Guest' lunch with a local farmer's family at a traditional tea plantation in Nara. You will also have a dinner at a Sumo-themed izakaya restaurant in Tokyo and participate in an Okonomiyaki making experience in Hiroshima.
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What are some of the iconic landmarks visited during the tour?
During the tour, you will visit iconic landmarks such as the Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo, the 5th Station of Mount Fuji, Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto, the Peace Memorial Park and Museum in Hiroshima, and the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka. You will also see the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama and the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. ...more ...less
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes travel by high-speed bullet train between cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. Additionally, there is a scenic cruise along the Sumida River in Tokyo and the Okawa River in Osaka.
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How does the tour support sustainable tourism?
The tour supports sustainable tourism by visiting the Kiyomizu pottery artisans' workshop in Kyoto, which contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Enquire for Extra Savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.
Classic Japan
11 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Osaka, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Ameyoko Street Market, Tokyo, Asakusa, Tokyo, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo, Sumida River, Tokyo, Hamarikyu Garden, Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Owakudani, Kyoto, Gion District, Kyoto, Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto, Arashiyama, Kyoto, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kyoto, Tenryuji Temple, Kyoto, Nishiki Market, Kyoto, Nara, Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, Hiroshima, Miyajima Island, Itsukushima Shrine, Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima, Osaka, Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku Tower, Dotonbori, Tsuyunoten Shrine ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JPCLN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
