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Product Code: MT-2632
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17 Day Fly, Stay & Small Group Tour exploring Japan’s volcanic landscapes, ancient traditions, art islands and iconic cities
Book By 31 October 2026
17 Day Fly, Stay & Small Group Tour exploring Japan’s volcanic landscapes, ancient traditions, art islands and iconic cities
International flights to Fukuoka, returning from Tokyo
Discover a fascinating side of Japan on an 17-day journey from Fukuoka to Tokyo, travelling through the diverse landscapes and cultural heartlands of Kyushu, western Japan and the iconic destinations of the Golden Route. Explore historic towns, sacred shrines and volcanic landscapes, from Sakurajima and Miyazaki to the legendary Takachiho Gorge and the hot springs of Beppu. Continue to Hiroshima and Miyajima before discovering the preserved streets of Kurashiki and the contemporary art of Naoshima.
Experience Japan through a wonderful mix of sightseeing and hands-on experiences, from traditional handicrafts and volcanic ash art to ramen making, while travelling by private coach and high-speed bullet train. Explore Kyoto’s timeless temples and gardens, cruise scenic Lake Ashi in Hakone and discover the contrasting energy of Tokyo, with free time in both Kyoto and Tokyo to explore at your own pace. With hand-selected 3–4-star hotels, daily breakfast, an expert tour leader and a maximum of 24 passengers, this is a comfortable and immersive way to experience the many different sides of Japan.
Tour Inclusions
Tour Highlights
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Welcome to Japan! After arriving at Fukuoka International Airport, make your way to your hotel, where check-in commences from 3:00 pm. The remainder of the day is free for you to start discovering this lively city at your own pace.
Please note: Due to flight times and schedules, some customers may be required to depart the day prior on an overnight flight from Australia.
Meals: N/A
Begin with a visit to the revered Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, one of Kyushu’s most celebrated spiritual sites. Surrounded by tranquil gardens and centuries of history, it offers a wonderful introduction to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Then, immerse yourself in the artistry of Fukuoka with a traditional handicraft experience, offering hands‑on insight into local craftsmanship and a personal keepsake to take home.
To cap the day, head to the beautiful Itoshima coast to see the famous Sakurai Futamigaura Couple’s Stones. Two sacred rocks, known as the ‘Married Couple Rocks’, sit just offshore and are joined by a traditional Japanese rope. Framed by a white torii gate and the sea, this is a beautiful place to experience Japan’s connection between nature and tradition.
Meals: Breakfast
Luggage note: To make your first bullet train journey more comfortable, your main luggage will be transferred separately to Kagoshima. It will be collected on the morning of Day 2 and delivered to your hotel on the afternoon of Day 3. Please prepare a small overnight bag with any clothing, medications, and personal items you may need in the meantime.
This morning, experience your first journey aboard Japan’s iconic shinkansen bullet train as you travel to Kagoshima. Visit the Chiran Kamikaze Peace Museum, where powerful exhibits tell the personal stories of the young pilots who flew from the nearby airbase during the final stages of World War II.
After lunch, cross Kagoshima Bay by ferry to Sakurajima, an island dominated by one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. Get creative during a hands-on Volcanic Ash Art Experience, admire panoramic views from the Yu-no-Hira Observatory, and unwind with a soothing volcanic foot bath at Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park before returning to Kagoshima City.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, journey into Miyazaki Prefecture, a region famed for its sunny climate, dramatic coastline and deep connections to Japanese mythology. En route, visit the Kurozu Garden Tsubobatake Black Vinegar Urn Fields, where thousands of earthenware jars have been used to produce the region’s celebrated black vinegar using traditional methods.
Continue to the former castle town of Obi, often referred to as the “Little Kyoto of Kyushu”, and explore the Obi Castle Ruins and preserved samurai district, offering a fascinating glimpse into feudal Japan without the crowds.
This afternoon, visit the remarkable Udo Shrine, uniquely built within a sea cave overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Dedicated to love, marriage and safe childbirth, the shrine is renowned for its dramatic setting and the centuries-old tradition of tossing lucky clay balls towards a sacred rock below.
Meals: Breakfast
From wave-carved coastlines to ancient burial grounds, today’s exploration reveals the natural and cultural treasures that define Miyazaki. Begin with a visit to Aoshima Island, where you’ll discover the remarkable “Devil’s Washboard”, a series of wave-carved rock formations that have become one of Kyushu’s most recognisable natural landmarks.
Enjoy time at Aoshima Beach Park before continuing to the Saitobaru Burial Mounds, one of Japan’s largest collections of ancient kofun tombs. Explore the Saitobaru Archaeological Museum to learn about the powerful rulers and communities that shaped the region more than 1,500 years ago.
Later, venture into the forested hills of Aya to cross the Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge, one of the world’s largest pedestrian suspension bridges, offering sweeping views over a laurel forest designated as a UNESCO Eco Park.
Meals: Breakfast
Step into the landscape of Japanese legends as you explore Takachiho, a region long associated with some of the country’s most enduring myths. Begin at Takachiho Gorge, where sheer volcanic cliffs rise above emerald waters, creating one of Kyushu’s most celebrated natural landscapes.
Continue to the riverbed of Ama-no-Yasukawara, a sacred cave associated with one of Japan’s most famous legends, where countless stone stacks have been left by pilgrims seeking good fortune. Nearby, visit Amanoiwato Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu and regarded as one of Japan’s most important mythological sites.
Later, travel to Kunimigaoka Observatory, famed for its panoramic views over Takachiho and the surrounding mountains and valleys. Continue to Aso, home to one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas, and settle into your hotel for a relaxing evening surrounded by the region’s remarkable volcanic landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Travel through Kyushu’s volcanic heartland, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Harajiri Falls, a unique and beautiful horseshoe-shaped waterfall.
Later, experience the energy and artistry of internationally acclaimed DRUM TAO at the spectacular TAO-no-Oka Skyward Stage. Perched more than 1,000 metres above sea level and surrounded by the rugged scenery of Aso-Kuju National Park, this open-air “Theatre in the Sky” provides an unforgettable setting for a stirring performance of taiko drumming and contemporary Japanese entertainment. Continue to Beppu, Japan’s hot spring capital, for an evening at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Luggage note: To make your next bullet train journey more comfortable, your main luggage will be transferred separately to Hiroshima. It will be collected on the morning of Day 7 and delivered to your hotel on the afternoon of Day 8. Please prepare a small overnight bag with any clothing, medications, and personal items you may need in the meantime.
With more hot springs (onsen) than anywhere else in Japan, Beppu takes the crown as the nation’s top hot spring destination. The morning is spent exploring the geological wonders of Beppu including a tour of some of the Hells of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri). These natural wonders, with names like Blood Pond Hell and Sea Hell, offer visitors a captivating and surreal experience of the Earth’s geothermal activity.
Later, bid farewell to Kyushu and travel to Kokura Station, where you’ll board the bullet train for a high-speed journey to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, visit the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few structures left standing near the hypocentre of the atomic bombing and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Peace Memorial Museum, where powerful exhibits and memorials commemorate the events of 1945 while promoting a message of peace and hope for future generations.
Meals: Breakfast
Today is dedicated to fully experiencing the delights of Miyajima, one of Japan’s most treasured island destinations. Rather than a brief stop, take the time to soak up the island’s relaxed atmosphere as you explore its sacred shrines, historic temples, charming shopping streets and scenic waterfront landscapes.
Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its seemingly floating torii gate that rises from the waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Wander through the lively Omotesando Shopping Street, lined with traditional shops and local delicacies, and encounter the island’s free-roaming deer, regarded as sacred messengers in Japanese tradition. Continue to Daisho-in Temple, a fascinating hillside temple complex known for its hundreds of Buddhist statues, prayer wheels and peaceful atmosphere. With its forested mountains, historic sites and waterfront scenery, Miyajima offers a captivating glimpse into a more tranquil side of Japan.
Hot Tip: Miyajima’s oysters are legendary for a reason! If you’re a seafood lover, be sure to treat yourself to some freshly grilled oysters while exploring the island. Harvested from the nutrient-rich waters of the Seto Inland Sea, they’re considered among the finest in Japan.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, travel to the beautifully preserved city of Kurashiki, home to one of Japan’s most charming historic districts. Explore the renowned Bikan Historical Quarter, where willow-lined canals, traditional merchant houses and centuries-old white-walled warehouses create a picture-perfect setting. Once an important centre for rice distribution during the Edo period, Kurashiki has retained much of its historic character while embracing a thriving arts and café culture.
Enjoy time at leisure to wander the atmospheric streets, browse local boutiques and galleries, and relax over lunch while soaking up the district’s timeless charm. Later, continue to Okayama and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax after the day’s sightseeing or set out to explore Okayama at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, cross the Seto Inland Sea by ferry to Naoshima, Japan’s celebrated “Art Island”. Internationally acclaimed for its fusion of contemporary art, innovative architecture and stunning natural surroundings, the island has transformed itself into one of the world’s most unique cultural destinations.
Discover a variety of remarkable art installations and exhibition spaces, where world-class artworks can be found amidst tranquil coastal landscapes, charming villages and striking modern architecture. With creativity woven into every corner of the island, Naoshima offers an immersive cultural experience unlike anywhere else in Japan.
Hot Tip: Keep your camera handy. Naoshima’s iconic pumpkin sculptures have become symbols of the island and are among the most photographed artworks in Japan.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Leave Okayama this morning and travel by coach to Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and cultural heart. Upon arrival, roll up your sleeves for a fun and interactive ramen-making experience, where you’ll learn the art of preparing one of Japan’s most beloved dishes before enjoying your creation for lunch.
This afternoon, explore some of Kyoto’s most iconic sights. Wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a tranquil and otherworldly atmosphere. Then visit Kinkaku-ji, the spectacular Golden Pavilion, whose gold-leaf-covered exterior is reflected in the surrounding pond and gardens. One of Japan’s most celebrated landmarks, it offers a glimpse into the elegance and refinement for which Kyoto is renowned.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Today is yours to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Discover more of the city’s temples, gardens and traditional neighbourhoods, or browse the shops and markets. You could also venture further afield with a day trip to Nara, home to ancient temples and its famous friendly deer, or Osaka, known for its vibrant streets, food and lively atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, leave Kyoto behind and travel by bullet train to Mishima Station before continuing by coach to the scenic mountain region of Hakone. Known for its mountains, lakes and volcanic landscapes, Hakone offers beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, with opportunities to enjoy views of Mount Fuji from various points across the region, weather permitting.
Board the Lake Ashi Pirate Ship for a cruise across the lake, surrounded by forested mountains and, on a clear day, views towards Mount Fuji. Then ride the Hakone Ropeway over Owakudani’s volcanic valley, where steaming sulphur vents create a striking natural landscape. You may even like to try the famous local kuro-tamago, or black eggs, said to extend your life by seven years for every egg you eat!
After exploring Hakone, continue by coach to Tokyo, arriving in the evening.
Please note: Mount Fuji is a spectacular but elusive sight, and visibility is dependent on weather conditions on the day.
Meals: Breakfast
Discover the many sides of Tokyo, from its imperial heritage and traditional neighbourhoods to its vibrant modern streets. Begin in the Imperial Palace area, where you’ll see the elegant Nijubashi Bridge, before continuing to Asakusa. Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and stroll along Nakamise-dori, a lively street lined with traditional shops and local treats.
Continue to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views across the vast Tokyo skyline, before finishing in the energetic Shibuya district. Experience the famous Shibuya Crossing and see the beloved Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty and one of Tokyo’s most recognisable landmarks.
Meals: Breakfast
Today is yours to experience Tokyo your way. Relax and enjoy some free time, browse the shops for souvenirs or venture beyond the sights already included in your tour to discover more of this fascinating city.
Meals: Breakfast
Today marks the conclusion of your tour. At the appropriate time, make your own way to the airport for your onward flight, bringing your unforgettable journey through Japan to an end.
Please note: Due to flight times and scheduling, you may arrive in Australia on Day 17 or 18. Final documents will confirm travel timings.
Meals: Breakfast
Price based on tours starting:
Extra charges apply for:
Price based on departing from Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
Extra charges apply for:
Itinerary
Our multi-stop Japan tour is carefully designed to give a real insight into the highlights, culture, and beauty of each region. Each day will be different, with a combination of travel days, sightseeing and free time to explore or take a breather as you wish.
Pace and Fitness
This is a moderately paced tour with a mix of sightseeing, scenic drives, and train journeys on high-speed trains. There may be some early starts, late finishes and travel days between destinations. You’ll typically spend one to two nights in each location, allowing you to experience a variety of sightseeing opportunities.
A moderate level of fitness is required. You must be able to move about unassisted, including boarding and disembarking vehicles and trains, navigating stairs and walking for extended periods over a variety of surfaces, including uneven pathways and gentle inclines. In Japan, coaches may not always be able to stop directly outside hotels or attractions, so short walks with and without your luggage may be required. This tour is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchairs, mobility scooters or specialised assistance.
For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you must disclose any physical ailments at the time of booking.
Transfers
Arrival and Departure transfers are not included
Small Group Experience
A small group tour offers a good balance of connection and comfort. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 15 people and a maximum group size of approximately 24 people. If the tour does not operate due to minimum numbers, you will be offered a refund or an alternative date.
Tipping
In Japan, tipping is not part of everyday culture. However, within the travel industry it is a common way to show appreciation for the service provided by your tour leader and driver. While tipping is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended. A suggested amount is the equivalent of AUD $5 per person, per day.
Refer to Important Info for further details.
Fukuoka – Hotel Monte Hermana Fukuoka or similar Star Rating
Kagoshima – Hotel Mystays Kagoshima Tenmonkan or similar
Miyazaki – Art Hotel Miyazaki Sky Tower or similar
Aso – Aso Resort Grandvrio Hotel or similar
Beppu – Kamenoi Hotel Beppu or similar
Hiroshima – Oriental Hotel Hiroshima or similar
Okayama – Hotel Abest Grande Okayama or similar
Kyoto – Hotel SUI Kyoto Kiyomizu or similar
Tokyo – hotel Monday Premium Toyosu or similar
Accommodation note:
Each hotel on this tour has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. Accommodation is rated 3 to 4-star according to local standards. The hotel names listed are indicative of the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ, and a final hotel list will be provided with your final travel documentation no later than 30 days prior to departure.
Extend your stay:
Each rate is subject to hotel availability at the time of booking. Pricing includes breakfast. Pre and post-tour accommodation can be booked up until 5 months prior to departure. Please note a flight deviation fee may also apply should you be arriving or departing outside of the group tour itinerary from day 1 to 17.
A single supplement from $2,300 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
Airport transfers, meals not stated, beverages, optional tours, travel insurance (strongly recommended), personal expenses, tipping 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.
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.
Extend your Stay
Pre-tour accommodation in Fukuoka starts from $250 AUD total per room per night.
Post-tour accommodation in Tokyo starts from $250 AUD total per room per night.
Each rate is subject to hotel availability at the time of booking. Pricing includes breakfast. Pre and post-tour accommodation can be booked up until 5 months prior to departure. Please note a flight deviation fee may also apply should you be arriving or departing outside of the group tour itinerary from day 1 to 17.
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.
Breakaway
Guests must remain with the tour group at all times and may only leave the group if prior written approval has been obtained before departure or directly from the Tour Guide while in-destination.
Any guest who leaves the group without such approval will forfeit ongoing travel arrangements, including hotel accommodation and transportation. Aside from scheduled free time listed in the itinerary, all guests are required to stay with the group for the full duration of the tour unless previously arranged and approved.
In cases where it becomes necessary to leave the group unexpectedly, the local tour guide must be notified immediately.
Passport
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that 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 Requirement
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.
For the latest information on entry requirements, visa types, or any changes to the visa waiver program, please refer to Smartraveller or the Australian consulate websites for Japan: Smartraveller/Japan
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 responsibility of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended.
Tipping
In Japan, tipping is not part of everyday culture. However, within the travel industry it is a common way to show appreciation for the service provided by your tour leader and driver. While tipping is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended. A suggested amount is the equivalent of AUD $5 per person, per day.
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. Due to high-speed train baggage restrictions, you may be required to pack a separate light bag or backpack containing essentials and your luggage will be transferred. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are at your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Bullet Train Transportation
All train transportation featured in the itinerary is based on Ordinary (Standard) Reserved Seats. Due to factors outside our control, such as operational changes, last-minute track maintenance or unfavourable weather conditions, train travel may be substituted with an alternative means of transport to maintain the continuity of the itinerary while prioritising the safety of all guests.
Your large suitcase will be transferred separately by luggage transfer and will not travel aboard the bullet train. You should therefore pack a separate light bag or backpack containing essentials for this journey.
Meals
Breakfasts offered by the 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 or suggested dining options nearby.
Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements or allergies. While we will endeavour to pass on any dietary requirements advised at the time of booking, we cannot guarantee that accommodation providers, restaurants, or other suppliers will be able to accommodate all requests. Alternative meals, specially prepared dishes, or substitute breakfast options may not be available.
You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your Tour Guide whilst on tour.
Accommodation
Hotel rooms in Japan are generally smaller than Western 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. Rooms are lead-in or run-of-house unless stated otherwise. All hotel rooms will be requested as non-smoking, however, please be aware that some hotels offer smoking rooms and smoking floors.
Hotel names listed are indicative and may change; final hotels will be confirmed in your travel documents. All hotel ratings are local or self-rated 3 to 4-stars. Standard check-in is usually from 3:00 pm, and check-out by 10:00 am, though times may vary by property.
International Flights
International flights are based on economy class with a full-service carrier including China Southern Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines or similar (subject to availability).
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, an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing should this situation arise or offer you an upgrade amount if you wish to fly with a premium carrier instead. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. Non-attendance 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.
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.
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 the case of force majeure or other extraordinary events that prevent safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone, or cancel the trip.
Product Code: MT-2632
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