Japan & the Scenic South

Japan & the Scenic South

1,376 Views
13 Days From

$7082

Japan & the Scenic South

13 Days Starting and ending in UK

Visiting: Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Mount Aso, Beppu, Hiroshima, Himeji, Kyoto, Hakone, Tokyo

Tour operator:

Wendy Wu

Tour code:

1676

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 28

Physical rating:

Level1

Age range:

12-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Tour operated in:

English
From: $7082

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan's scenic south with this immersive coach tour. Begin your adventure in Fukuoka, exploring its cultural treasures before cruising the picturesque Yanagawa River. Discover the majestic Kumamoto Castle and the serene Suizenji Garden. Marvel at the vast crater of Mount Aso and unwind in Beppu's renowned hot springs. Experience the historical depth of Hiroshima, including a visit to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. Admire the architectural beauty of Himeji Castle and delve into Kyoto's rich heritage, from the Fushimi Inari Shrine to the Golden Pavilion. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on a Lake Ashi cruise and explore Tokyo's vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. With fully guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and inclusive meals, this 11-night adventure promises a comprehensive exploration of Japan's natural and cultural wonders.

Highlights

  • Cruise the picturesque Yanagawa River on a riverboat.

  • Gaze over Mount Aso, Japan’s largest volcano.

  • Relax at a Beppu hot spring resort.

  • Enjoy views of Mt Fuji on a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi.

  • Stop in amazement at the impressive Himeji Castle.

  • Watch as water laps over the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.

  • Explore the traditional Rakusuien Garden in Fukuoka.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly Overnight To Fukuoka

Location: Fukuoka

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Fly overnight to the charming city of Fukuoka, the gateway to the island of Kyushu. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day 3: Explore Fukuoka

Location: Fukuoka

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The lovely Fukuoka is at the heart of an area considered a cradle of culture – the city's position facing Korea and China across the sea means it's long been a channel of outside influence. This morning take a stroll through the traditional Rakusuien Garden and visit the famous Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to the god of academic achievement. Later, enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Yanagawa River, passing through a National Site of Scenic Beauty on a small 'donkobune'.

Day 4: Discover Kumamoto

Location: Kumamoto

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to Kumamoto, a city famous for its majestic castle, one of Japan's largest

and most complete. Stop by the castle which is currently under renovation and take a photo, before heading to Suizenji Garden. A traditional-style garden built in the 17th century, the garden recreates in miniature the important road that linked Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto, including a mini Mount Fuji.

Day 5: Visit Mount Aso & Beppu

Location: Mount Aso

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel from Kumamoto to Mount Aso, an active volcano at the centre of Kyushu island. Aso's crater is one of the world's largest; with a circumference of over 100km it encompasses a number of other active peaks, which you'll be able to see (weather dependent). Continue to Beppu, one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts – your hotel for the night has onsen facilities for you to make the most of the steamy waters.

Day 6: Explore Beppu

Location: Beppu

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Venture out into Beppu, starting the day with a jigoku meguri, a hell tour! Here you'll find all sorts of volcanic features, including thermal mud and hot springs that have bubbled from the ground for a millennium. Pop over to Yufuin, another hot spring resort that is home to a wealth of art museums, cafes and boutiques and is a delight to explore. This afternoon transfer back to Fukuoka.

Day 7 - Travel To Hiroshima

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart Fukuoka for Hiroshima. Stop en route to explore the city of Yamaguchi, spending some time at Rurikoji, a Buddhist temple that boasts a spectacular national treasure – a five-storey pagoda built in 1442. Continue to Iwakuni for a lunch stop and then to the Kintaikyo Bridge, an elegant wooden bridge that crosses the Nishiki River. Arrive in Hiroshima.

Day 8: Discover Hiroshima

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiroshima is a vibrant, forward-thinking city that is a pleasure to explore. Take a ferry across the Seto Inland Sea to the holy island of Miyajima and visit the Itsukushima Shrine before enjoying some time at leisure. Back in the city, reflect on Hiroshima's tragic past at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum paying homage to the victims

of the 1945 atomic bomb.

Day 9: Admire Himeji Castle

Location: Himeji

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart Hiroshima for Kyoto, stopping in Himeji en route to visit the magnificent Himeji Castle, one of Japan's most impressive feudal era forts, and stroll through Kokoen, an Edo-style garden just across the castle moat. Drop in at a sake brewery to learn about the process of this traditional Japanese spirit before arriving in Kyoto.

Day 10: Explore Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Capital for 1,000 years, Kyoto is the legacy of ancient Japan, full of tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens. Start the day with a visit to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, remarkable for its 10,000 vermilion torii gate-lined pathways and impressive Nijo Castle. This afternoon gaze on the famous Kinkakuji, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion' before a stroll around the Gion district, Kyoto's famous geisha district and centre of the city's traditional arts.

Day 11: Visit Hakone

Location: Hakone

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to Kyoto station and board a bullet train to Atami to transfer to the onsen resort of Hakone by road. Discover the mountainous beauty and rich culture of the Hakone area, before travelling to Lake Ashi for a cruise that will allow you to take in the spectacular panoramas of the area, including the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji (weather permitting). Next, fly high over the thick forest on the Hakone Ropeway, passing the volcanic Owakudani Valley with its hot springs and steam vents. Later, continue to Tokyo, Japan's capital city.

Day 12: Tour Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tokyo, as modern as it may appear, behind the neon façade is a traditional soul that is easy to find amongst the old alleyways, temples and shrines of the Edo era. Today you will ascend the soaring Tokyo Skytree, Japan's tallest tower, for panoramic views, and wander through the old district of Asakusa. Stop at Sensoji, Tokyo's most famous and beloved temple. You will also drive by the Imperial Palace Plaza, soak up the atmosphere at the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine and see the world's most famous road crossing at Shibuya.

Day 13: Fly Tokyo To Uk

Location: Tokyo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

What's Included

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    Airport transfers are included at the destination.

  • Accommodation

    11 nights in 3+ or 4-star accommodation are included.

  • All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)

    All domestic transportation, including internal flights, is included.

  • Country Entry Visas

    Country entry visas are included.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to attractions are included.

  • Fully Guided

    The tour is fully guided.

  • International Travel

    International travel is included.

  • Local Taxes

    Local taxes are included.

  • Meals – Full Board

    Full board meals are included: 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 11 dinners.

  • Fully Inclusive

    The tour is fully inclusive, with guides and entrance fees.

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included.

    Although tipping in Japan is not customary, you may tip your guide at your discretion if you feel you have received excellent service.

  • Drinks with Meals

    Drinks with meals are not included.

Mode of Transport

Experience seamless travel with all domestic transportation, including internal flights, ensuring a smooth journey across Japan's scenic landscapes.

Accommodation

Enjoy 11 nights in comfortable 3+ to 4-star accommodations, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's adventures in Japan.

Experiences

Mount Aso

Gaze over Mount Aso, Japan's largest volcano and the smaller volcanoes within its huge crater (one of which is active), and admire the incredible scenery that surrounds it.


Cruise on the Yanagawa River

Cruise the picturesque Yanagawa River on a 'donkobune', a poled riverboat. It's a

perfect and peaceful way to enjoy sights such as Yanagawa Castle and the traditional

architecture of Yanagawa's canals.


Relax at a Beppu Hot Spring Resort

Visit one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts, Beppu, and soak away any aches,

pains and tiredness in the mineral rich waters of your hotel's onsen pools.


Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 11 nights of accommodation in 3-star or 4-star hotels.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour is full board, including 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 11 dinners.

  • Is transportation included in the tour?

    Yes, all domestic transportation, including internal flights, is included in the tour package.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour?

    Yes, entrance fees to attractions are included in the tour package.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, the tour is fully guided, with guides accompanying you throughout the tour.

  • Are international flights included in the tour package?

    Yes, international flights and current taxes are included in the tour package.

  • What is the policy on tipping during the tour?

    Tipping is not customary in Japan, but if you feel you have received excellent service, you may tip your guide at your discretion.

  • Are drinks included with meals during the tour?

    No, drinks with meals are not included in the tour package.

  • What are some of the highlights of the tour?

    Highlights include cruising the Yanagawa River, viewing Mount Aso, relaxing at a Beppu hot spring resort, enjoying views of Mt Fuji on Lake Ashi, visiting Himeji Castle, and seeing the Itsukushima Shrine.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.

  • Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?

    Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.

  • What is 'Happy to Share'?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.

  • Do you allow children on your tours?

    We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.

Reviews of this operator

Feefo Rated Customer  

Colours of Costa Rica

26-Mar-2020

This was our first tour with you and from start to finish we were guided by Isaac who made sure everything went smoothly. He was laid back - but on the ball - always available and very informative.

Excellent
Feefo Rated Customer  

Ultimate South America

21-Mar-2020

We were hoping this tour would be the holiday of a lifetime and it certainly was. Our guide, Corina, was fantastic and evry country we visited had something special. FANTASTIC

Excellent
William  

Japan Uncovered

12-Nov-2022

A superb trip which ticked all our boxes and covered all the main experiences you would wish for on a trip to Japan! We were looked after by excellent local guides. All of our accommodation was very good. With all meals included we got the chance to experience the local cuisine

Alastair  

Christmas in Vietnam

06-Jan-2023

Vietnam at Christmas, Excellent Experience From start to finish Vietnam at Christmas was amazing, The tour group, Local Guide Loc, we must have been blessed as the weather was excellent only one day of rain. Tour Group 11/10 Guide 11/10 Hotels 8/10 Food 8/10 Itineary10/10 Faboulous experience on Christmas in Vietnam

Feefo Rated Customer  

Highlights of Sri Lanka

24-Mar-2020

Great Country. Good range of different things to do and places to see - temples to beaches to wildlife. Hotels ranged from adequate to excellent. Food quality and variety was better than we expected A really good tour guide and our fellow travellers were excellent company. Would recommend despite the impact of Corona Virus cutting out a few later trips but that was beyond anyone's ability to control..

Excellent

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 08, 2024 - Nov 20, 2024
$7469

Friday - Wednesday

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$8501

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

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$8811

Friday - Wednesday

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$7727

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Friday - Wednesday

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Friday - Wednesday

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Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

May 02, 2025 - May 14, 2025
$9133

Friday - Wednesday

May 02, 2025 - May 14, 2025
$10166

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$7082

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$8759 $8114

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$8488

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$10166 $9520

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$7082

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$8759 $8114

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$8488

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$10166 $9520

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 20, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$7727

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 20, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$9404 $8759

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 20, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$9133

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 20, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$10811 $10166

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 08, 2026
$7727

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 08, 2026
$9404 $8759

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 08, 2026
$9133

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 08, 2026
$10811 $10166

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026
$7727

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026
$9404 $8759

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026
$9133

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026
$10811 $10166

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 22, 2026
$7985

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 22, 2026
$9017

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 22, 2026
$9391

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 22, 2026
$10424

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

May 01, 2026 - May 13, 2026
$7469

Friday - Wednesday

May 01, 2026 - May 13, 2026
$9146 $8501

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

May 01, 2026 - May 13, 2026
$8875

Friday - Wednesday

May 01, 2026 - May 13, 2026
$10553 $9908

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 16, 2026 - Oct 28, 2026
$7469

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 16, 2026 - Oct 28, 2026
$9146 $8501

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 16, 2026 - Oct 28, 2026
$8875

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 16, 2026 - Oct 28, 2026
$10553 $9908

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 04, 2026
$7469

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 04, 2026
$9146 $8501

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 04, 2026
$8875

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 04, 2026
$10553 $9908

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 06, 2026 - Nov 18, 2026
$7469

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 06, 2026 - Nov 18, 2026
$9146 $8501

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 06, 2026 - Nov 18, 2026
$8875

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 06, 2026 - Nov 18, 2026
$10553 $9908

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 25, 2026
$7469

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 25, 2026
$9146 $8501

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 25, 2026
$8875

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 25, 2026
$10553 $9908

Operator discount: -$645

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 31-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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