Two people in traditional Japanese kimonos walk through a tunnel of bright orange torii gates, with Japanese characters inscribed on the gates.
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Two people in traditional Japanese kimonos walk through a tunnel of bright orange torii gates, with Japanese characters inscribed on the gates. Map

7 Day Golden Highlights of Japan Tour

7-Day Fly, Stay & Guided Tour showcasing Japan’s must-see highlights, from historic temples and cultural icons to scenic landscapes and the bullet train.

  • Flights Included
  • Bonus Savings | $3000
  • Travel Nov 26 - Jun 27

Book By 31 July 2026

Select Dates Nov 26 – Jun 27 

Product Code: MT-2464

VENTURE FURTHER, SPEND LESS

Unlock $250^ OFF a future touring holiday.

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7 Day Golden Highlights of Japan Tour

7-Day Fly, Stay & Guided Tour showcasing Japan’s must-see highlights, from historic temples and cultural icons to scenic landscapes and the bullet train.

  • Flights Included
  • Bonus Savings | $3000
  • Travel Nov 26 - Jun 27

VENTURE FURTHER, SPEND LESS

Unlock $250^ OFF a future touring holiday.

Explore Deals

Package Inclusions Open All

International flights to Osaka, returning from Tokyo

Always wanted to visit Japan but not sure where to start? This expertly guided holiday brings together the country’s most iconic cities, cultural landmarks and unforgettable experiences into one seamless journey. From the bright lights of Osaka and ancient temples of Kyoto to the world-famous bullet train, scenic Hakone and vibrant Tokyo, this tour helps you to discover the sights that make Japan a bucket-list destination.

With return international flights, hand-selected 3.5–4-star accommodation, daily breakfast and expert guidance throughout, everything is taken care of for you. Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time, this carefully crafted itinerary offers a comfortable and stress-free introduction to Japan’s culture, history and natural beauty.

Tour Inclusions

  • Return international flights to Osaka, returning from Tokyo
  • 6 Nights in 3.5 – 4-star hotels  in convenient locations
  • Breakfast daily
  • Private deluxe coach transportation
  • High-speed bullet train experience
  • Expert guide throughout
  • Sightseeing and admissions as per itinerary

Tour Highlights

  • Explore Osaka Castle and discover the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori
  • Visit Todaiji Temple and meet the sacred deer roaming Nara Deer Park
  • Walk beneath the thousands of iconic vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine
  • Discover Kyoto’s cultural treasures, including the spectacular Golden Pavilion
  • Experience Japan’s world-famous bullet train on a journey from Kyoto to Mishima
  • Cruise across scenic Lake Ashi in the shadow of the Fuji-Hakone region
  • Ride the Hakone Ropeway over dramatic volcanic landscapes with a chance to view Mount Fuji
  • Explore Owakudani Valley, where steaming volcanic vents create a unique natural landscape
  • Visit Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district and the renowned Sensoji Temple
Itinerary Map

Your Itinerary

Itinerary Map
Itinerary Map

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Arrive Osaka, Japan

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival in Osaka, make your own way to your hotel. With well-connected trains, limousine buses and taxis, getting into the city is straightforward and convenient.

The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring Osaka at your own pace.

Please Note: Airport transfers are not included. Due to flight schedules, some travellers may depart Australia the day prior on an overnight flight. Standard hotel check-in is from 3:00pm.

Meals Included: N/A

 
Osaka Half Day Tour 

Meet your Tour Guide this morning and discover Osaka, known for its lively atmosphere, rich history and welcoming spirit.

Begin with a visit to Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most recognisable landmarks. Explore the castle museum, learn about the powerful samurai leaders who helped shape Japan’s history, and enjoy sweeping views across the city from the upper floors.

Next, experience the energy of Dotonbori, Osaka’s famous entertainment district. Known for its giant neon signs, bustling streets and local food culture, this is one of Japan’s most photographed locations. Stroll along the canal, soak up the atmosphere and discover local favourites such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki during your free time.

The tour concludes in Dotonbori. You can choose to remain in the area and continue exploring independently or return to the hotel with the group.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sightseeing Included: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori District

 
Osaka to Kyoto via Nara 

This morning we leave Osaka and head towards Nara, Japan’s ancient capital and a highlight of any visit.

Visit Todaiji Temple, home to the towering Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. Afterwards, enjoy time at Nara Deer Park, where hundreds of deer roam freely and are considered sacred.

Continue to Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and cultural heart. Renowned for its centuries-old temples, traditional wooden streets and enduring customs, Kyoto offers a glimpse into the Japan many travellers dream of experiencing.

En route, stop at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind up the hillside — a truly unforgettable sight.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sightseeing Included: Todaiji Temple, Nara Deer Park, Fushimi Inari Shrine

 
Kyoto Half Day Tour 

After breakfast, join your guide and explore Kyoto, a city where centuries of history, tradition and culture remain beautifully preserved.

Visit the Heian Jingu Shrine, known for its impressive architecture, peaceful grounds and striking vermilion torii gate, one of the largest in Japan.

Visit the spectacular Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), one of Japan’s most celebrated landmarks. Covered in shimmering gold leaf and reflected in a tranquil pond, it offers one of Kyoto’s most iconic and picturesque views.

Return to your hotel where the afternoon is at leisure, or you can be dropped off in the famous Gion area to explore Kyoto’s historic geisha district independently. If you choose this option, please note that you will need to make your own way back to the hotel.

Please Note: Gion is a very popular and busy area in Kyoto, which is not suitable for large group touring. Therefore, this visit is only offered as an independent option. The area offers plenty of transport options including taxis and Uber to return to your hotel (approximately 15–20 minutes), at your own expense.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sightseeing Included: Heian Jingu Shrine, Golden Pavilion

 
Kyoto to Tokyo via Hakone  

Today combines several of Japan’s most memorable travel experiences as you journey from Kyoto to Tokyo via the scenic Fuji-Hakone region.

Travel by Japan’s world-famous bullet train from Kyoto to Mishima, experiencing the speed, comfort and efficiency that has made the Shinkansen an icon of modern Japan. Meals are not included on board, so we recommend purchasing snacks or lunch before departure.

Upon arrival, continue by coach to Hakone, a region celebrated for its mountain scenery, volcanic landscapes and views of Mount Fuji. Cruise across the waters of Lake Ashi, passing the iconic red torii gate that appears to float beside the lakeshore.

Next, board the Hakone Ropeway and soar above dramatic volcanic landscapes, with panoramic views across the surrounding mountains. On clear days, you may be rewarded with views of Japan’s most famous natural landmark, Mount Fuji.

Disembark at Owakudani Station, an active volcanic valley where steam rises from the mountainside and sulphur vents create a unique and otherworldly landscape. You’ll have free time to explore and perhaps try Hakone’s famous black eggs, cooked in the naturally heated waters and said to add seven years to your life according to local legend.

Later, travel by coach (approx. 2.5 hours) to Tokyo, arriving in the evening.

Weather Note: Visibility of Mount Fuji and operation of the Hakone Ropeway are subject to weather conditions. Your Japan Tour Guide will advise on alternatives if needed.

Luggage Note: Large luggage cannot travel on the bullet train and will be transported by a luggage transfer service directly to your Tokyo hotel. Please ensure you bring a day bag with essentials.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sightseeing Included: Bullet Train, Lake Ashi Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley

 
Tokyo Half Day Tour  

On today’s half-day tour, discover Tokyo, a city where centuries-old traditions exist alongside futuristic skylines, creating one of the world’s most fascinating urban destinations.

Begin with a stop at the Imperial Palace Plaza, where you can view the famous Double Bridge and admire the grounds surrounding the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family.

Continue to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most atmospheric districts. En route, enjoy views of Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan and a symbol of the city’s modern skyline.

In Asakusa, visit the historic Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple and one of its most important cultural landmarks. Stroll along Nakamise Street, lined with traditional shops selling local snacks, souvenirs and handcrafted goods. This lively area offers a great chance to soak up Tokyo’s traditional charm.

After sightseeing, return to your hotel with the group, or alternatively, you may choose to stay and explore the exciting Asakusa area independently. If you choose to stay in Asakusa, please note that you will need to make your own way back to the hotel by taxi or public transport.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sightseeing Included:  Imperial Palace Plaza (exterior), Tokyo Skytree (exterior), Asakusa, Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street

 
Depart Tokyo

After breakfast and check-out, make your own way to the airport to meet your flight.

Please Note: Airport transfers are not included. Hotel staff can assist you in organising a taxi, or an affordable option is to book a seat on the Airport Limousine Bus.

Meals Included: Breakfast

See full itinerary

Important Info Open All

Price based on tours starting:

  • 20 May 2027
  • 27 May 2027
  • 3 June 2027

Extra charges apply for:

  • 12 November 2026 ($300pp)
  • 18 March 2027 ($400pp)
  • 25 March 2027 ($400pp)
  • 22 April 2027 ($400pp)

Travel Seasons for This Tour:

March – April
Spring is one of Japan’s most celebrated seasons, bringing mild temperatures, fresh greenery, and the arrival of the iconic cherry blossom season. Depending on the region and seasonal conditions, cherry blossoms may be visible during late March and early April, creating picturesque scenery in parks, gardens, and along riversides. Beyond the blossoms, spring flowers and vibrant landscapes make this a wonderful time for sightseeing and cultural exploration.

Late May – June
Late spring and early summer offer a more relaxed travel experience, with comfortable temperatures, vibrant green landscapes and fewer crowds than the peak cherry blossom period. Gardens and countryside regions are lush and colourful, while attractions are generally less congested. This period provides an excellent balance of pleasant weather, good availability and value, making it ideal for travellers seeking a more relaxed pace without sacrificing seasonal beauty.

November
Autumn is renowned for its spectacular seasonal colours, with brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold transforming parks, temples, and mountain landscapes. Comfortable daytime temperatures, lower humidity, and generally clear skies make November one of the most popular times to visit Japan. The combination of crisp air and stunning autumn foliage creates some of the country’s most memorable scenery.

Please Note: Cherry blossom blooms and autumn foliage timings are not guaranteed as they are highly seasonal and subject to weather patterns and changing climate conditions.

Price based on departing from Melbourne, Perth, Sydney

Extra charges apply for:

  • Brisbane ($300pp)
  • Adelaide ($400pp)

Pace  & Fitness
This is a fast-paced tour that 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.

A moderate level of fitness is required. You must be able to move unassisted throughout the tour, including getting on and off vehicles, navigating stairs, and walking for extended periods. Due to city restrictions, coaches may not be able to stop directly in front of hotels or sightseeing locations. This tour is not suitable for travellers who require assistance or have limited mobility.

For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you must disclose any physical ailments at the time of booking.

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.

Coach
Our coaches are equipped with safety belts, reclining seats and air-conditioning. Large windows and generous legroom ensure every coach journey is comfortable and enjoyable from the moment you step aboard until you reach your destination.

Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader will be experienced, friendly and passionate to share each destination with you. They will be on hand to offer suggestions for extra activities, local dining options and more while you are on tour.

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 36 people. If the tour does not operate due to minimum numbers, you will be offered a refund or an alternative date.

Refer to Important Info for further details.

 

While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. They may not all be centrally located, but your friendly guide will provide helpful advice in all locations you visit. All hotel ratings are local or self-rated 3.5-4 stars. Hotel names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ and a final hotel list will be provided on your final documentation.

  • Osaka – Miyako City Osaka Tennoji, 4★
  • Kyoto – Urban Hotel Kyoto Shijo Premium, 3.5★
  • Tokyo – Sunshine City Prince Hotel Tokyo, 4★

Kyoto City Tourism Tax

To support sustainable tourism and preserve Kyoto’s cultural heritage, a mandatory Kyoto City Accommodation Tax applies to all stays within the city centre. This small, per-night local tax is paid directly to your hotel at check-in and ranges from $3–7 AUD per room, per night. This initiative helps manage visitor numbers and contributes to maintaining Kyoto’s beauty and infrastructure for future travellers. It’s a small contribution that makes a big difference.

Refer to Important Info for further details.

A single supplement starts from $1,200 per person is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Please note there are a limited number of solo rooms available per departure. Single rooms can sometimes be smaller than twin/double rooms in Japan.

Refer to Important Info for further details.

 

Exclusions
Arrival and departure airport transfers, meals not stated, beverages, optional programs, travel insurance (strongly recommended), Visa requirements, tipping, 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.

Solo Occupancy
A single supplement from $1,200 per person is payable in addition to the twin-share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms may be smaller than twin rooms in Japan.

Triple Share
Triple share is not available.

Extra Accommodation
Pre and Post tour accommodation is currently unavailable. Should you wish to extend your holiday, you can book your own accommodation however additional flight costs/deviation fees may apply.

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.

Cancellation / Amendments
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:

  • 0-29 days before departure 100% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
  • 30-60 days before departure 65% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
  • 61-99 days before departure 50% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
  • 100-180 days before departure 30% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
  • 181+ days before departure 10% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply

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 differences. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax differences 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 page at the time of booking. 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.

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 3.5-4 stars. Standard check-in is usually from 3:00 pm, and check-out by 10:00 am, though times may vary by property.

Kyoto City Tourism Tax
To support sustainable tourism and preserve Kyoto’s cultural heritage, a mandatory Kyoto City Accommodation Tax applies to all stays within the city centre. This small, per-night local tax is paid directly to your hotel at check-in and ranges from $3–7 AUD per room, per night. This initiative helps manage visitor numbers and contributes to maintaining Kyoto’s beauty and infrastructure for future travellers. It’s a small contribution that makes a big difference.

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 not aboard the bullet train, therefore ensure you pack a separate light bag or backpack containing essentials.

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. 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.

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.

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.

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.


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Product Code: MT-2464

From $3,399 *pp Valued at $4899
Book By 31 July 2026

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7 Day Golden Highlights of Japan Tour


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Days 7

Adults 2

Children 0

Departure Point Sydney

Preferred Departure Date 12-11-2026


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