Japan Explorer

Trip Code:57117

(AUD) Twin Share from $14,090pp

Days 16

Nights 13

This tour is ideal for travellers seeking a well-rounded introduction to Japan, combining iconic cultural highlights with immersive local experiences and time to unwind. It is particularly suited to first-time visitors who want to explore key regions such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, alongside natural highlights including Mount Fuji, Iya Gorge, and Nikko. With a balanced pace that includes guided sightseeing as well as regular periods of leisure time.

23 Mar 2027 – 06 Apr 2027
from $14,590 pp twin share *
06 Apr 2027 – 20 Apr 2027
from $14,090 pp twin share *
17 Nov 2027 – 01 Dec 2027
from $14,090 pp twin share *
24 Nov 2027 – 08 Dec 2027
from $14,090 pp twin share *
21 Mar 2028 – 04 Apr 2028
from $15,090 pp twin share *
04 Apr 2028 – 18 Apr 2028
from $14,690 pp twin share *
21 Nov 2028 – 05 Dec 2028
from $14,690 pp twin share *
28 Nov 2028 – 12 Dec 2028
from $14,690 pp twin share *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Itinerary

Day 1-2 – Fly to Osaka:
Fly overnight to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka! Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 3 – Discover Nara:
Head to the old capital of Nara, visit Todai-ji Temple and the Great Buddha of Nara and the bowing deer’s who are the messengers of the Japanese gods. Proceed back to Osaka for lunch and take an Osaka central walking cultural tour to glimpse the lifestyle of the Osaka people.
Day 4 – At leisure Osaka:
Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure in the dynamic city of Osaka. Whether you choose to revisit favourite sights from your cultural walking tour or venture out to discover new corners of the city, there is plenty to see and experience. From bustling shopping districts to historic landmarks and delicious local cuisine.
Day 5 – Sake & Samurai:
Begin the day with a tasting of the world-renowned Kikumasamune sake. Then journey to Himeji to enjoy a delicious local lunch before visiting the iconic Himeji Castle, Japan’s finest surviving feudal castle. Continue to the picturesque city of Kurashiki, where you’ll wander through beautifully preserved samurai and merchant quarters dating back to the Edo period. End the day with a relaxing dinner at your hotel in Takamatsu.
Day 6 – IYA Gorge:
Experience the beauty of Ritsurin Garden, a masterpiece perfected over 185 years, featuring six tranquil ponds set against a stunning mountain backdrop. Journey into the remote Iya Gorge to admire its dramatic scenery, cross the iconic vine bridge, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise through the gorge. Then unwind at historic Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts, before continuing to Matsuyama for an overnight stay.
Day 7 – Matsuyama – Hiroshima:
Begin your day with a visit to Iwaya Temple, one of the sacred temples on the renowned Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Continue to Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s twelve original surviving castles, where you can admire its rich history and panoramic views. Next, travel along the spectacular Shimanami Kaido, a scenic route spanning the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy a refreshing open-sea boat cruise while taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery before continuing your journey to Hiroshima.
Day 8 – Hiroshima & Miyajima:
Start the day with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum, gaining insight into Japan’s perspective on this significant chapter of history. After lunch in central Hiroshima, continue to the sacred island of Miyajima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its iconic giant torii gate, which appears to float gracefully on the water.
Day 9 – Kyoto:
Travel to Kyoto aboard Japan’s famous bullet train and enjoy a traditional hotpot lunch upon arrival. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Japan’s ancient capital with a tea ceremony at a traditional tea house, followed by a visit to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Later, enjoy free time exploring the historic streets of Gion, where you may catch a glimpse of a maiko or geisha amidst the district’s timeless charm.
Day 10 – At leisure Kyoto:
Enjoy a day at leisure in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, with time to explore its serene temples, tranquil gardens, and historic neighbourhoods at your own pace. Alternatively, take advantage of Kyoto’s close proximity to Osaka and set out on an independent day trip for shopping and city exploration.
Day 11 – Arashiyama Bamboo Forest:
Continue your Kyoto journey with visits to Tenryu-ji Temple and the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where soaring bamboo creates a serene natural sanctuary. Proceed to Ryoan-ji Temple, famed for its Zen rock garden, before visiting the magnificent Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a UNESCO World Heritage Site shimmering in gold. Enjoy a local Kyoto-style lunch before boarding the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train and continuing to the Mt Fuji region for your next stage of discovery.
Day 12 – Mt Fuji – Tokyo:
Explore the eastern side of Mount Fuji with a visit to the serene springs of Oshino Hakkai. Depending on conditions, either ascend to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji for panoramic alpine views, or travel to Iyashi no Sato Nenba to experience a beautifully restored traditional village set against the mountain backdrop. Continue to a striking kimono display museum before proceeding to Tokyo for the next stage of your journey.
Day 13 – Nikko:
Based in the Nikko Sanzan, the sacred three mountains of Nikko, visit the ornate mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, at Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Enjoy a local yuba-based lunch before continuing to “Little Edo,” the historic town of Kanuma or surrounding Edo-style district, where beautifully preserved warehouse streets and traditional festival floats evoke Japan’s rich heritage.
Day 14 – Tokyo:
Enjoy an immersive sumo experience, including a morning training session if available, or an alternative sumo demonstration. Later, visit the iconic Shibuya Crossing, where you can take in the energy of one of the world’s busiest intersections. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Conclude the day with a dinner cruise.
Days 15-16 – Fly Tokyo to Australia:
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, arriving home the same or following day.

Highlights

Explore Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima – Japan’s must-see destinations.
Marvel at natural wonders like Mount Fuji, Iya Gorge, and Nikko.
Enjoy a balanced pace with guided sightseeing and leisure time.

Inclusions

Explore historic Edo-period streets in Kurashiki.
Visit one of Japan’s oldest onsen Dogo Onsen.
Enjoy a scenic boat cruise in IYA gorge.
Reflect in Hiroshima & Miyajima.
Free time to enjoy streets of Kyoto.

FAQs

How long is this journey?

This itinerary runs for 16 days and 13 nights.

When can I travel?

Departures are currently scheduled between 23 Mar 2027 and 12 Dec 2028, subject to live availability.

Are there different departure options?

Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.

What is generally included?

Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.

Provided by: Wendy Wu Tours

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