Finding your next escape...
Product Code: MT-2348
Enquire now: 1300 692 784
Map
12 Day Fly & Tour Holiday uncovering the best of Japan, featuring immersive cultural experiences, historic samurai towns, breathtaking landscapes, UNESCO‑listed icons and much more
Book By 31 March 2026
12 Day Fly & Tour Holiday uncovering the best of Japan, featuring immersive cultural experiences, historic samurai towns, breathtaking landscapes, UNESCO‑listed icons and much more
International flights to Osaka, returning from Tokyo
YOUR TOUR AT A GLANCE:
Experience Japan’s perfect blend of tradition, culture, and natural beauty as you journey from vibrant Osaka to iconic Tokyo. Explore eccentric neighbourhoods, ride a high‑speed bullet train to Hiroshima, and reflect at the Peace Memorial Museum before sailing to the sacred island of Miyajima. Wander through Kyoto’s most enchanting sights, including the shimmering Golden Pavilion, and try your hand at traditional sweet‑making. Walk beneath the endless torii gates of Fushimi Inari, meet the friendly deer of Nara, and follow in the footsteps of samurai along the historic Nakasendo Trail. Discover the craftsmanship of Japanese sword‑forging in Seki, admire the majesty of Mt Fuji, glide above Owakudani’s volcanic landscapes on the Hakone Ropeway, and feel the electric energy of Tokyo as your journey comes to a close.
Tour Inclusions
Tour Highlights
Open All
Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Osaka, follow instructions for your included transfer to the hotel. Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, is a vibrant metropolis known for its extroverted locals, bustling nightlife, and is famous for its street food.
Meals: None
Note: Due to flight times and schedules, some customers may be required to depart the day prior on an overnight flight from Australia.
In the morning, we take a tour around Osaka- stopping by the five-storey-high Osaka Castle, one of the world’s most visibly striking historical landmarks situated smack bang in the middle of the city. We then head to always lively Dotonbori district – take a photo with the iconic Glico Running Man and sample some of Osaka’s famous street food here. A trip to Japan would not be complete without a ride on the iconic bullet train (shinkansen). Reaching an average speed of 270 km, watch cities and countryside smoothly rush by as we leave Osaka and head down to Hiroshima. The modern city of Hiroshima is defined by an inseparable connection to peace, shrines and museums but is also famous for its own version of Japan’s savoury okonomiyaki pancakes. Enjoy an included dinner of this Hiroshima specialty.
Please be advised that due to luggage restrictions on the bullet train in Japan, suitcases cannot be taken on the trip to Hiroshima. We will securely store all suitcases at the hotel in Osaka. Kindly prepare an overnight bag for the next two nights.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Begin the day and board a ferry to enchanting Miyajima. While officially named Itsukushima, the island is more commonly referred to as Miyajima, Japanese for “shrine island”. This is because the island is so closely related to its key shrine, Itsukushima Shrine. The shrine’s main buildings are built over water and depending on the tide, can look to float just above it. If the tide is out, you can easily walk out to the shrine’s large and imposing vermillion torii gate. The island is also home to wild deer that wander the streets, especially in the lead-up to the shrine. Spend time wandering through the island’s quaint streets lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and even fresh-oyster stalls. As the day continues, catch the ferry back to visit the Peace Memorial Museum, where stories of survival and hope amid tragedy unfold. Then stroll through the tranquil expanse of the Peace Park, pausing at the various memorials and monuments dedicated to remembrance. Towards the end of the park is the Atomic Bomb Dome, the only structure left standing in the area of the atomic bombing which now serves as an enduring symbol of the past and a hope for peace.
Meals: Breakfast
Today we depart Hiroshima to make our way back to Osaka. On the way, we stop by the picturesque town of Kurashiki. Sometimes referred to as “The Venice of Japan”, Kurashiki’s willow-lined river is criss-crossed by stone bridges and lined by traditional houses and large whitewashed warehouses dating back to the Edo and Meiji periods. Like Venice, this picturesque area is a living town, with shops, vibrant cafes and restaurants and locals going about their daily lives. Meander through the town and watch as small boats ferry passengers back and forth along the river. We then visit Korakuen Garden which is ranked as one of Japan’s three best landscape gardens. This traditional Japanese garden’s beauty is enhanced by Okayama’s Golden Crow Castle which makes a spectacular backdrop for pictures. The day concludes back in Osaka in the early evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Today we travel from Osaka to Kyoto, stopping along the way in the beautiful city of Nara where you’ll visit the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple, home to the colossal Great Buddha statue, the world’s largest bronze Buddha. The temple’s grandeur and historical significance are truly remarkable.
Afterward, encounter some of the tame deer of Nara Park which have become a symbol of the city and have even been designated as a natural treasure. You’ll have some free time to wander and find something delicious to eat for lunch. We then visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, popular for the seemingly unending path of bright orange torii gates that wind through the hills. Our final stop today is in Kyoto where the rest of the evening is yours to spend at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
We begin at the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, otherwise known as the Golden Pavilion. This is a Zen temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold and set within a beautiful classical Zen garden. We then head to the outskirts of Kyoto to Arashiyama, a district renowned for its towering bamboo groves and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Spend some free time here walking through the bamboo grove or wandering along the river which is picturesque in every season. The central street is lined with delicious food vendors and boutique stores- a recommendation is to stop in one of the cafes for some green tea or soba noodles. Next, we take part in a traditional sweet making class. Learn to make Yatsuhashi, a delicate Kyoto specialty treat, is an immersive experience that blends tradition with artistry. The rest of the evening is yours to spend at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, we travel from Kyoto to Nagoya, located in the heart of Japan. Historically, Nagoya was the place of many of the most famous samurai battles in the warring state period and the birthplace of the first Shogun, Minamoto Yoritomo. Today, Nagoya is well known as a hub of automotive innovation, home to the headquarters of Toyota. We will visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology which offers a fun and interesting exploration into the history and future of the Toyota company. We then head to Seki, Japan’s most historic blacksmithing city, where the legendary samurai swords were born. Our visit takes us to the Hamonoya SANSYU Museum and the workshop of the 25th and 26th generation Kanefusa Fujiwara swordsmiths, who have crafted swords for the Tokugawa family for centuries. Experience the unique opportunity to witness a live Japanese sword forging demonstration and hear firsthand from the master swordsmiths about their intricate process. Explore the museum to discover how this traditional craftsmanship has evolved to create high-quality kitchen knives, scissors, razors, and more.
Meals: Breakfast
Today we tour along the historic Nakasendo Trail, where you’ll journey through time as you explore the charming post towns of Magome and Tsumago. The trail, once a vital route connecting Tokyo to Kyoto during the Edo period, is now a beautifully preserved pathway that offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Starting in Magome, with its cobblestone streets and traditional wooden houses, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a bygone era. As you wander along the scenic route to Tsumago, the surrounding mountains and forests provide a serene backdrop, with the gentle sounds of nature accompanying your walk. Tsumago, another meticulously preserved post town, greets you with its authentic Edo-period ambiance, where you can explore old inns, tea houses, and perhaps even catch a performance of traditional arts. This day offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable experience in Japan’s countryside.
Meals: Breakfast
Today’s journey takes us from Nagoya to Shizuoka, where we’ll explore two of Japan’s most iconic drinks—sake and green tea. Our first stop is the historic Hananomai Sake Brewery, which boasts over 150 years of tradition. Here, you’ll discover how master brewers craft their unique sake using Shizuoka-grown rice and pure underground water from the Akaishi Mountains. Enjoy an included local lunch at a local restaurant, featuring the unique flavours of the region. Next, immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Japanese tea culture with a serene tea ceremony experience at Gyokuro no Sato, located in the heart of Fujieda. Surrounded by tranquil gardens and rolling tea fields, this peaceful village offers a unique opportunity to savour some of Japan’s finest Gyokuro green tea while learning traditional brewing techniques in an authentic setting. It’s a chance to connect deeply with the spirit of Japanese hospitality and craftsmanship in a truly memorable way.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Today we embark on a captivating journey through the scenic areas surrounding Mount Fuji, starting with a visit to the Fujinokuni Chano Miyako Museum, where you’ll explore the rich heritage of tea cultivation in Shizuoka, one of Japan’s premier tea-growing regions through interactive exhibits and beautifully curated displays. We then continue to the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre in Shizuoka. Here, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and natural significance of Japan’s iconic peak. The adventure continues as we head to Hakone. Take in breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape from the Hakone Ropeway and stop at Owakudani Valley to witness its dramatic geothermal activity. As the day draws to a close, we’ll make our way to the vibrant city of Tokyo, where the tour concludes, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Japan’s most stunning natural and cultural landmarks.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, we delve into the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo, starting with a visit to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape await. Our journey continues at the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled within the lush greenery of Yoyogi Park. As you pass through towering torii gates and wander the tranquil forest, you’ll feel a deep connection to Shinto spirituality. Next, we venture to Asakusa, home to the iconic Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most photographed temple. Its vivid red hues and intricate architecture captivate all who visit. As you approach, you’ll pass through the Kaminarimon Gate, with its massive lantern taking centre stage. Stroll along Nakamise Street, a bustling avenue lined with colourful stalls offering traditional snacks and souvenirs—a perfect opportunity to pick up some last-minute keepsakes. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. Later, we’ll reconvene for one final group dinner, a perfect occasion to toast your unforgettable Japan adventure and bid farewell to newfound friends.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Today we say sayonara to Japan. At the appropriate time make your own way to the airport, bidding farewell to Japan and taking home incredible memories.
Meals: Breakfast
Price based on tours starting:
Extra charges apply for:
Price based on departing from Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
Extra charges apply for:
Pace
The pace of this tour is moderate. The tour covers several areas of Japan and can involve some early starts and long travel days. The on-the-go nature of multi-city tours rewards you with maximum sightseeing opportunities. One to two nights at each destination is standard. Please be aware many iconic attractions in Japan can be overcrowded and busy, so please ensure you remain with your dedicated Tour Leader.
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and exiting/disembarking vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain. If airport transfers are included, they may not always reach the hotel door, so short walks may be required of you. This trip is not suitable for travellers’ requiring wheelchair, mobility scooters or specialised facilities. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able to move independently and keep pace with the group. Please note that there will be a fair amount of walking and some locations will have stairs. If you have any health concerns, let us know when booking so we can help confirm if this trip is suitable for you.
Transfers
An arrival transfer in Osaka is included, but a departure airport transfer in Tokyo is not included. Airport transfers may operate at designated times and may be group or independent services using private or public transportation. A short walk to the hotel carrying your own luggage may be required from the drop-off point. Transfers are not included for early arrival in Osaka.
Group Size
On a tour you will meet like-minded travellers and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 20 people and a maximum group size of approximately 34 people. If the tour does not operate due to minimum numbers, you will be offered a credit or alternative date.
Osaka– Hotel Vischio Amagasaki by Granvia or similar
Hiroshima– Hiroshima Grand Intelligent Hotel or similar
Kyoto– Vessel Hotel Campana Kyoto Gojo or similar
Nagoya– Hotel Keihan Nagoya or similar
Shizuoka– Shizutetsu Hotel Prezio Shizuoka-Minami or similar
Tokyo– Sunshine City Prince Hotel or similar
Note: The accommodation mentioned above is listed for visa purposes and is subject to change. Please refer to your confirmed Hotel List provided to you at the time of Final Documentation sent no later than 30 days prior to departure.
A single supplement from $1,200 per person is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms can sometimes be smaller than twin/double rooms in Japan.
Exclusions
Departure airport transfer, meals not stated, beverages, travel insurance (strongly recommended), personal expenses and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense.
Payment
A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 10 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.
Pace
The pace of this tour is moderate. The tour covers several areas of Japan and can involve some early starts and long travel days. The on-the-go nature of multi-city tours rewards you with maximum sightseeing opportunities. One to two nights at each destination is standard. Please be aware many iconic attractions in Japan can be overcrowded and busy, so please ensure you remain with your dedicated Tour Leader.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is the standard and is included in the price you pay. If you leave money behind or try to tip directly, it may be refused or returned with confusion. Instead of tipping, a simple thank you or small gift from your home country is a more appropriate way to show appreciation.
Triple Share
Triple share is not available.
Child Policy
This tour is best enjoyed by adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. Children 12 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult.
Price
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Change & Cancellation Fees
Changes for any reason will incur a fee of $110 per person per change in addition to any travel service provider fees. Cancellation for any reason will incur a fee of $550 per person in addition to any travel service provider fees. Travel service provider fees for the tour and air components of the package are dependent on the date of the change or cancellation as follows:
Airfares are generally non-refundable but any refundable ticket taxes will be returned. Full details of the change and cancellation fees is outlined in the Terms & Conditions available on our website
Deviation
Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and stay behind, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.
Passport
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports.
Visa
A visa is generally not required for Australian passport holders visiting Japan for the purpose of short-term tourism; however, this policy is subject to change without notice. Passengers who are not travelling on an Australian passport must check with their respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required. Visa requirements for each origin and destination country are the responsibility of the customer to check and obtain (if required) with the local consulate or embassy. The customer is liable for all visa application costs and fees due to the failure to obtain the required travel documents.
Health
It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19 and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing and quarantine costs are the expense of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended.
Money
The currency in Japan is the Yen (JPY). ATMs are widely available in major Japanese cities. They accept major credit cards including at international hotels and restaurants. In some smaller cities, using international cards will be limited and local currency is suggested.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
**Please be advised that due to luggage restrictions on the bullet train in Japan, suitcases cannot be taken on the trip to Hiroshima. We will securely store all suitcases at the hotel in Osaka. Kindly prepare an overnight bag for the next two nights.
Meals
Breakfasts offered by the Japanese accommodation providers are typically buffet style, with limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your tour leader whilst on tour.
Accommodation
All accommodation featured in this itinerary is based on 3-4 star hotels. Please note most hotels in Japan are either self-rated or locally rated based on Japan standards. All hotel rooms will feature either a twin room (two single beds) or a double room (one queen bed). All bedding requests cannot be guaranteed however all special requests should be made known at time of booking. The size of hotel rooms in Japan are generally smaller than Western standards. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. All hotel rooms will be requested as non-smoking, however, please be aware that some hotels offer smoking rooms and smoking floors. Hotel names mentioned are indicative and subject to change based, with final group tour hotels being confirmed on your final documentation. The standard check-in time is from 3pm and check-out is prior to 10am.
International Flights
The outbound flight may depart one day prior to day 1 shown on the itinerary. The inbound flight may arrive one day after the final day shown on the itinerary. Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes or government fees at the time of booking flights, then an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing, should this situation arise. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. No show of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.
Fuel
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.
Train Transportation
All train transportation featured in the itinerary is based on 2nd class seating. Due to factors outside of our control, such as operational changes, last-minute track maintenance, or unfavourable weather conditions, train travel may be substituted to maintain the continuity of the itinerary while prioritising the safety of all passengers.
Itinerary
The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19 or other factors beyond our control including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’ or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.
Breakaway
Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure.
Documentation
Final documentation will be emailed within 30 days prior to departure. For packages consisting of multiple tours or countries, documentation will be emailed individually within 30 days prior to departure of each respective tour.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.
Force Majeure
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.
Product Code: MT-2348
Need more information from our holiday experts?
Enquire OnlineHold Tight!
We're sending your enquiry through to one of our My Cruises Travel Experts
