Days:
13
Starts:
Tokyo
Finishes:
Kyoto
Meals:
9B 2L 2D
From:
$2799USD
Japan Adventure
Highlights
Ready to say Konnichiwa to Japan? Famed for futuristic cities, ancient traditions, drool worthy food and outstanding natural beauty, Japan is a country that will bring all your senses to life and send you home wanting more. Over 13 days visit Tokyo, Nagano, Hakone, Osaka, Koyasan and Kyoto, where you’ll learn to roll sushi, wield a sword like a Samurai, fall in love with enchanted castles and spend the night in the company of monks in a 1000 year old Buddhist temple. Oh, and did we mention you’ll be doing all this with a knowledgeable group leader and an instant crew of new mates? The trip of a lifetime just got even better…
What's Included
12 NIGHTS ACCOM
From high end ‘flashpacker’ hostels to a beautiful traditional Japanese ‘Ryokan’ & a 1000 year old temple!
Check it out here
13 DAYS OF EPIC ACTIVITIES
Visit ancient temples & shrines, explore the ultramodern cities, learn to wield a Samurai sword & more!
See the full list
ALL TRANSPORT INCLUDED
All transport during your adventure is sorted, including bullet trains, buses, subways, cable cars & more!
AWESOME GROUP LEADER
You'll get an awesome group leader from the moment you step off the plane to provide 24/7 support during & after your trip.
13 MEALS
9 Breakfasts, 2 Lunch & 2 Dinners
10 TREES PLANTED
We’ll plant 10 trees on your behalf when you make a booking.
Itinerary
TOKYO
Konnichiwa and welcome to Tokyo! Today you’ll arrive into one of the world’s buzziest, most forward thinking cities. Checking in to your hostel, you’ll then meet up with your travel crew and get excited for the adventures to come.
TOKYO
Today is all about discovering all that Tokyo has in store. First up, we’ll pay a visit to one of the country’s oldest temples, Senso-ji Temple, before checking out the Meiji Shrine. Colourful, eclectic and fashion forward Harajuku is up next, before we brave the iconic Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest intersection. After dinner this evening, we’ll then squeeze in to one of the hilariously tiny bars in the district of Shinjuku.
TOKYO
First up we're meeting with a sushi master to try our hand at the art of sushi rolling. Followed by some free time in Tokyo, before venturing over to the futuristic sights and sounds of Akihabara. Known locally as the ‘Electric City’, it's famous for its electronic shops, maid cafes, Japanese photo booths, game centres and all things modern.
NAGANO
Now’s your chance to experience Japan’s famous bullet train for real. Shooting out of Tokyo at over 200mph, we’ll reach Nagano just in time to try out the ancient art of Origami, followed by a relaxing dip in an Onsen, aka a volcanic hot spring. Tonight we’ll settle in to our Ryokan style hotel, where you’ll be sleeping on traditional tatami mats and Japanese style futon bedding.
NAGANO
This morning we'll learn how to make our own Soba noodles! We’ll then be venturing out into the mountains to spot the region’s famous snow monkeys, or Japanese Macaques. These red faced trouble makers play amongst the trees in the summer months & warm by bathing in the natural hot springs once winter hits. Enjoying the fresh mountain air, we’ll then take our time exploring the gorgeous lakes and forests of the Shiga Kogen National Park (summer only).
HAKONE
It’s back on board the bullet train this morning, this time bound for Hakone. Famed for hot springs, natural beauty and (of course) Mount Fuji, we’ll check in to our trendy hostel that comes complete with its very own onsen.
OSAKA
You might not be walking the plank, but you will be exploring Hakone by pirate ship (and cable car) this morning, keeping eyes peeled for views of snow capped Mount Fuji. We’ll then journey on to Osaka, also known as the nation's kitchen. To celebrate, a BBQ dinner will be on us, where we'll fuel up for a night out, Osaka style.
OSAKA
This morning you’ll have time to yourself to chill and maybe squeeze in a spot of shopping, before we head out as a group to visit the 400 year old Osaka Castle. Looking like something straight out of a fairytale you’ll struggle not to get house envy as we explore the grounds and hear stories of Japanese history and legends, including the country’s most famous warriors, the Samurai. We'll finish up by heading over to Dontonbori, Osaka's famous canal region and home to some of the best food in the country!
KOYASAN
Ready for something extra special? Today we have just the thing - an overnight stay in a 1000 year old Buddhist temple. Leaving Osaka behind we’ll travel to the mountains for the town of Koyasan, where we’ll be welcomed into the temple by the monks who live there. They’ll teach us meditation, serve us their traditional foods, and lead us through a night time stroll of Japan’s largest cemetery.
KYOTO
It’s an early start today, but well worth it to watch the Buddhist monks perform their morning prayer ritual and fire ceremony. We’ll then be served breakfast before travelling on to our final destination, Kyoto. After checking in to our boutique hotel, you’ll have time to yourself to explore Japan’s ancient capital. Tonight we get to learn about Japan's mysterious Geishas with a tour of Gion, the area many of these artists call home.
KYOTO
Green, lush and vibrant, the Insta famous Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama is our first stop today. Photos snapped, we’ll then head to the luxurious Golden Pavilion, so named for being covered entirely in gold. Tonight's a free evening to maybe hit up a sushi restaurant, find a bar, or challenge your mates to a round of bowling.
KYOTO
Ending our trip on a high, today we’ll visit the famous Torii gates of Fushimi-Inari. One of Japan’s most iconic and photographed shrines, the orange gates stretch all the way up the mountainside. This afternoon, and maybe saving the best till last, you’ll then learn how to wield a traditional samurai sword under the watchful eye of a Samurai master who's dedicated their life to the art of the sword.
KYOTO
Your unforgettable 13 day adventure comes to an end today. Those flying home will make their way to the airport, or keep living the dream and extend your stay in Kyoto or Japan with our help and the new friends you’ve made.
#SmallChange
Making a positive difference to the amazing destinations we travel is at the core of what we do. Small Change is our own socially conscious initiative aimed at making the world that little bit better place to explore!
Check out the #SmallChange you'll be part of while doing this tour. Click here
Frequently Asked Questions
The Japanese call Japan ‘a country of four seasons’ which basically means it’s got four distinct seasons, all beautiful and amazing for different reasons. The winter months (Dec-Mar) are cold but bring stunning snow-capped mountains and a magical winter wonderland feel, not to mention being the best time to see the famous ‘Snow Monkeys’. Spring (Apr - Jun) is popular for its colourful beauty and famous cherry blossoms. Summer (Jun - Aug) is hot, humid and great for outdoor activities and is the peak festival season. Autumn (Sep – Nov) again brings stunning colourful scenery such as the ‘koyo’ or Japanese autumn foliage. So you’re sure to have an amazing time any month of year!
When should I arrive for my tour?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins. Once you have booked your flights you can log into the Manage My Booking Area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you are arriving early we can still arrange your airport pick up for you (excluding Japan) and can book in your extra nights accommodation. The cost and availability of extra nights will vary depending on which tour you have booked.
Where can I update my arrival information for my tour?
Once you have booked your flights log into the Manage My Booking Area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you are arriving early we can still arrange your airport transfer for you (excluding Japan) and can book in your extra nights accommodation. The cost and availability of extra nights will vary depending on which tour you have booked. Our INTRO Travel App has all the important information about arriving into the country, your airport transfer and where to meet when you arrive. Please download it here for iPhone or Google
Which airport do I need to fly into?
You can find information on which airport to fly into and out of in the 'Arrival Info’ and ‘After Your Trip’ sections of our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
Can I book pre-tour accommodation with you?
If you are arriving before the start date, you can contact us to check if there is availability for extras nights in your starting accom. From there, you can pay for your extra nights on our Manage My Booking page.
Can I book post-tour accommodation with you?
Your group leader will book post-tour accommodation for you when you are on tour. Just need to let them know when you arrive.
How do I organise my airport transfer?
All of our tours (except Japan) include an airport transfer for when you arrive. Once you have booked your flights simply log into the Manage My Booking Area of our website and let us know your flight arrival details. If you are arriving early and staying at the tour accommodation we will still arrange your airport transfer. Please let us know if you do not require an airport transfer.
A return transfer (after the tour) is not included, however your group leader can help arrange this for you, along with any other onward travel you need.
Our INTRO Travel App has all the important information about your airport transfer and where to meet when you arrive. Please download it here for iPhone or Google
Are flights included in the price?
Flights to and from Japan are not included in the price of the tour and will need to be booked separately. However if your tour has an internal flight as part of the itinerary, then this is included!
You can get a quote on a flight to your destination here.
When should I book my flight to arrive?
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date. This is when most people arrive. There are no activities on the first day but the group gets together in the evening for a welcome dinner at around 7pm. Sometimes people like to arrive a day or two before the trip starts so they can do their own exploring or just have a bit of time to chill before all the fun begins.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. You’ll need to show proof of your policy to your group leader upon arrival (on your phone or printed). You can get a quote and purchase your travel insurance here.
Do I need a visa and can you arrange it for me?
Visa requirements vary depending on the country you are travelling to and your nationality. It’s your responsibility to check the visa and entry requirements for the country/s you will be travelling to. There is some information about visas in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
IMPORTANT: We cannot apply for your visa for you and strongly recommend that you check on the relevant embassy or consulate website for the country/s you’ll be travelling to well in advance of your departure, as requirements can change and some countries require you to apply for a visa before you travel.
How much spending money will I need?
All your activities, transport, accommodation and some meals are included in the tour, so you will mainly just need money for extra meals, drinks, shopping and onward travel.
The amount of money you’ll need depends on the tour you are doing. There’s information about how much money you’ll need for each tour in our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
What’s the best way to access my money?
We recommend getting a Wise travel card, which will allow you to pay for things in local currency and avoid getting charged high foreign exchange fees by your bank.
Getting a Wise travel card is easy! You can get a Wise travel card here.
What should I pack for my tour?
Whether you have a backpack or a suitcase the main thing to keep in mind is not to bring too much stuff! We strongly recommend that you bring less than 20 kgs of stuff with you.
If you haven’t got a backpack yet, try and get one that zips open along the side. There will be places on the tour where you can do laundry, so you don’t need to bring 16 pairs of shorts with you.
You can view a packing checklist on our INTRO Travel App, which you can download here for iPhone or Google
How many people will be in my group?
Our groups usually have around 12-16 people on them, usually aged between 18 to early 40's. We get people from all over the world on our tours, so you’ll get to bond with a wide range of travellers who all share that same passion for adventure! As long as you have an appetite for adventure and are happy bonding with people of all backgrounds, you’ll fit in perfectly!
How can I get in touch with my group?
Your group leader will make a WhatsApp group chat at the start of your tour. But you are welcome to make one earlier! You can reach out to your fellow travellers in our designated Facebook groups. We have a Facebook group for all our destinations, if you go to our INTRO Travel Community Facebook page you will be able to find the relevant group for your destination.
How can I get in touch with my group leader?
You will receive a ‘welcome email’ from your group leader approx. 2 weeks before your tour begins.
What if I'm travelling solo?
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting ways to experience a new destination, and you won't have to wait around for your mates to be ready. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing people, making new friends, and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip a lot of people continue travelling with the new friends they've made!
What if I'm travelling with a friend/s or partner?
Once you’ve made a booking just let us know who you’re travelling with and we can make a note that you are travelling together, and can put you in the same room.
A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after-trip support. Your group leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are totally comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can help organise and book whatever you need, including any transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip, and will always be there to help when you need it.
13 DAYS
FROM
$2799
USD
secure your place now and pay later!
from
$400
USD
