Gems of Japan & Shikoku
Discover Japan’s many contrasts – from the rolling hills of Shikoku to Tokyo’s dazzling skyline and Kyoto’s timeless grace.
Along the way, you’ll meet an apprentice geisha, wander fragrant citrus farms, and explore Naoshima’s world of contemporary art beside the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea. You’ll also pay your respects at Hiroshima, enjoy the majesty of Mount Fuji, and experience a traditional tea ceremony.
This tour is designed for travellers who want to enjoy Japan’s signature sights, while also spending time on the lesser-visited shores of Shikoku and the Seto Inland Sea.
- 13 Oct 2026 – 27 Oct 2026
Land only: from $12,690 pp twin share / $15,870 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $13,890 pp twin share / $17,070 pp sole use * - 27 Oct 2026 – 10 Nov 2026
Land only: from $12,690 pp twin share / $15,870 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $13,890 pp twin share / $17,070 pp sole use * - 23 Mar 2027 – 06 Apr 2027
Land only: from $14,290 pp twin share / $17,570 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,490 pp twin share / $18,770 pp sole use * - 30 Mar 2027 – 13 Apr 2027
Land only: from $13,590 pp twin share / $16,870 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use * - 06 Apr 2027 – 20 Apr 2027
Land only: from $13,590 pp twin share / $16,870 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use * - 11 May 2027 – 25 May 2027
Land only: from $13,090 pp twin share / $16,370 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,290 pp twin share / $17,570 pp sole use * - 18 May 2027 – 01 Jun 2027
Land only: from $12,990 pp twin share / $16,270 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,190 pp twin share / $17,470 pp sole use * - 14 Sep 2027 – 28 Sep 2027
Land only: from $13,090 pp twin share / $16,370 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,290 pp twin share / $17,570 pp sole use * - 21 Sep 2027 – 05 Oct 2027
Land only: from $13,090 pp twin share / $16,370 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,290 pp twin share / $17,570 pp sole use * - 12 Oct 2027 – 26 Oct 2027
Land only: from $13,590 pp twin share / $16,870 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use * - 19 Oct 2027 – 02 Nov 2027
Land only: from $13,590 pp twin share / $16,870 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use * - 09 Nov 2027 – 23 Nov 2027
Land only: from $13,590 pp twin share / $16,870 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use * - 14 Mar 2028 – 28 Mar 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,370 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,290 pp twin share / $18,570 pp sole use * - 21 Mar 2028 – 04 Apr 2028
Land only: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,990 pp twin share / $19,270 pp sole use * - 28 Mar 2028 – 11 Apr 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,370 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,290 pp twin share / $18,570 pp sole use * - 04 Apr 2028 – 18 Apr 2028
Land only: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,990 pp twin share / $19,270 pp sole use * - 16 May 2028 – 30 May 2028
Land only: from $13,390 pp twin share / $16,670 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,590 pp twin share / $17,870 pp sole use * - 12 Sep 2028 – 26 Sep 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,370 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,290 pp twin share / $18,570 pp sole use * - 19 Sep 2028 – 03 Oct 2028
Land only: from $13,390 pp twin share / $16,670 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $14,590 pp twin share / $17,870 pp sole use * - 03 Oct 2028 – 17 Oct 2028
Land only: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,990 pp twin share / $19,270 pp sole use * - 10 Oct 2028 – 24 Oct 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,370 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,290 pp twin share / $18,570 pp sole use * - 17 Oct 2028 – 31 Oct 2028
Land only: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,990 pp twin share / $19,270 pp sole use * - 24 Oct 2028 – 07 Nov 2028
Land only: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,370 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,290 pp twin share / $18,570 pp sole use * - 31 Oct 2028 – 14 Nov 2028
Land only: from $14,790 pp twin share / $18,070 pp sole use
Flight inclusive: from $15,990 pp twin share / $19,270 pp sole use *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice. Land only prices exclude international flights.
Itinerary
Days 1 – 2 – Fly to Tokyo
Fly overnight to Tokyo, Japan’s buzzing capital. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 3 – Tokyo Past & Present
Uncover Tokyo’s origins at the Open-Air Architectural Garden, where preserved homes and public buildings offer a glimpse into two hundred years of Tokyo’s history. Stroll among restored homes, izakayas and bathhouses that capture the charm of old Tokyo. After lunch, return to central Tokyo and enjoy the modern-day buzz of Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Go on to enjoy a photo of the iconic Godzilla Head landmark in Shinjuku before visiting the observatory at Tokyo Metropolitan Governmental Office.
Day 4 – Art & Heritage of Tokyo
Begin at the Sumida Hokusai Museum, celebrating the legendary 19th century artist whose Great Wave brought Japan’s ukiyo-e art to global fame. After lunch, delve deeper into the city’s story at the newly renovated Edo-Tokyo Museum. Explore vivid dioramas and trace Tokyo’s evolution through war, recovery, and innovation into the vibrant metropolis of today. In the afternoon, return to the hotel. Alternatively, on select May & September departures, witness Japan’s national sport at the thrilling Tokyo Sumo Tournament!
Day 5 – Tea Farms & Fuji Views
Drive to Shizuoka Prefecture, famous for its green tea farms. Visit a tea plantation and enjoy a morning cup of green tea before lunch. This afternoon, head to the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre to learn about Japan’s most iconic mountain. Continue to the seaside city of Shizuoka and enjoy 360-degree views of Fuji and the Japanese coastline from Nihondaira Yume Terrace. Overnight in Shizuoka.
Day 6 – Nagoya – Kyoto
Drive to Okazaki to visit a historic miso factory, which has been producing hatcho miso for more than five centuries. This style of miso is thicker and purer than other styles, resulting in a rich umami flavour which you can savour at lunch. Continue to Nagoya’s SCMaglev and Railway Park to discover Japan’s world-renowned rail heritage. Step inside historic carriages, admire full-scale bullet trains, and see how cutting-edge technology has shaped high-speed travel. Later, experience it for yourself aboard the shinkansen to Kyoto, your home for the next three nights.
Day 7 – Kyoto’s Tea, Temples & Geisha
Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s ancient culture. Begin your day with a morning tea ceremony, observing its historic rituals, then head to the famously photogenic Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji. At lunchtime, enjoy a visit from a very special guest: a maiko, or apprentice geisha! Geisha are increasingly hard to spot in Kyoto, so this is a fascinating opportunity for a glimpse into their secretive world. Continue to Ryoan-ji, a Zen temple famed for its beautiful rock garden, before returning to your hotel.
Day 8 – Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Free Time in Kyoto
Begin the morning in Arashiyama’s famous bamboo forest, where towering thickets create a serene atmosphere. Admire the historic Togetsu-kyo Bridge before visiting Tenryu-ji Temple, renowned for its tranquil pond. Enjoy a temple-style lunch at its Bib Gourmand-listed restaurant. Go on to travel to Nara, Japan’s former imperial capital and home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Look out for the park’s beautiful resident sika deer. Visit Todai-ji Temple, the world’s largest wooden structure before returning to Kyoto this evening.
Day 9 – Himeji Castle – Koko-en Gardens – Hiroshima
Board the bullet train for a 45-minute ride to Himeji, where the imposing white facade of Himeji Castle awaits. Stop outside for photos, then head to the lovely Koko-en Gardens nearby. Later, take a one-hour bullet train to Hiroshima, your home for the next two nights.
Day 10 – Hiroshima & Miyajima Island
Spend the morning in reflection at the poignant Peace Memorial Park and Museum, paying homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb. After lunch, board a ferry to the lovely island of Miyajima, with free time to admire its ‘floating’ Torii Gate on the edge of the Seto Inland Sea. Return to Hiroshima before dinner.
Day 11 – Across the Inland Sea to Shikoku
Bid farewell to Honshu and take the ferry from Hiroshima to Shikoku, one of Japan’s four main islands. Often overlooked by travellers, mountainous Shikoku rewards those who visit with rich culture and quiet charm. Arrive in Matsuyama and hop on the cable car to explore its historic hilltop castle before lunch. This afternoon, visit Dogo Onsen Honkan, Japan’s oldest hot spring, to soak in its soothing waters.
Day 12 – Farms & Gardens of Shikoku
Begin the day at Mount Kirosan Observatory, admiring sweeping views of the tiny green islands that stud the Seto Inland Sea. Continue to one of Shikoku’s famed citrus farms to pick your own mikan orange and savour the sweet, bright flavour of this local speciality. Later, enjoy a scenic drive across the island to Ritsurin Garden, a masterpiece of ponds, bridges, and manicured pines. Stroll its serene paths before checking in at your hotel in the port city of Takamatsu.
Day 13 – Arts of Naoshima & Benesse House
Hop on a ferry to the intriguing island of Naoshima, celebrated for its eclectic contemporary art collections. Visit the island’s premier gallery, Benesse House, to explore its blend of indoor exhibits and open-air installations set against sea views. Among its most iconic works is Yayoi Kusama’s polka-dot ‘Yellow Pumpkin’ sculpture, a symbol of modern Japanese art. Return to Takamatsu.
Day 14 – Festival Dances, Whirlpools & Osaka
Journey one hour to Tokushima, on Shikoku’s eastern coast, to visit the Awa Odori Festival Museum. Learn about Shikoku’s joyful summer festival, and enjoy an energetic live performance by local dancers. After lunch, continue to the Naruto Strait to view its famous whirlpools (tide permitting) from a walkway above the swirling currents. Continue to Osaka ahead of this evening’s farewell dinner.
Days 15 – 16 – Depart Osaka
Farewell, Japan! Transfer to the airport for your flight home, arriving the same or following day. Alternatively, why not extend your trip? Talk to our reservations team about extensions to Nara, or combining your Honshu & Shikoku tour with our Spirit of Kyushu tour for an even deeper journey through Japan.
Highlights
- International flights and domestic transportation included
- 3+ – 4 star accommodation, including overnight stays in ryokan
- Touring with guides and entrance fees included
Discover Japan’s many contrasts – from the rolling hills of Shikoku to Tokyo’s dazzling skyline and Kyoto’s timeless grace.
Along the way, you’ll meet an apprentice geisha, wander fragrant citrus farms, and explore Naoshima’s world of contemporary art beside the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea. You’ll also pay your respects at Hiroshima, enjoy the majesty of Mount Fuji, and experience a traditional tea ceremony.
This tour is designed for travellers who want to enjoy Japan’s signature sights, while also spending time on the lesser-visited shores of Shikoku and the Seto Inland Sea.
Inclusions
- International flights and current taxes (excluded if a land only option is selected).
- Domestic transportation.
- 3+ – 4 star accommodation, including overnight stays in ryokan.
- Touring with guides and entrance fees.
FAQs
- Sunshine City Prince Hotel
- Hotel Associa Shizuoka
- Rihga Gran Kyoto
- Grand Prince Hotel
- ANA Crowne Plaza Matsuyama
- JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu
- Sheraton Miyako Hotel
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 16 days and 13 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 13 Oct 2026 and 14 Nov 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
Provided by: Wendy Wu ToursFine Print
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2026. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Tipping is generally not part of the culture in Japan; however, you may wish to tip your National Escort at your discretion.
- Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights’ accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request
- Please note: cherry blossoms & autumn leaves are weather dependent and it is not guaranteed that they will be in bloom at the time of your arrival.
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