Experience the many sides of Japan, from fast-paced cities to peaceful countryside escapes
Best of Japan
From neon-lit streets and ancient traditions to steaming ramen and relaxing onsens, Japan is a country that awakens every sense. On this unforgettable nine-day adventure, explore the vibrant energy of Tokyo before slowing down in the countryside with a traditional homestay and views of iconic Mt Fuji.
Best of Japan
⭐️ 4.8 - 15 reviews
Start: Tokyo, Japan
End: Osaka, Japan
Duration: 9 days
Theme: Explorer, Rail
Minimum age: 15 years
Prices from $1190 $1590
Start: Tokyo, Japan
End: Osaka, Japan
Duration: 9 days
Theme: Explorer, Rail
Minimum age: 15 years
Prices from $1190 $1590
Why you'll love this trip
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Experience Japan’s Top HighlightsDiscover the perfect mix of culture, history and food as you travel from Tokyo’s vibrant streets to Osaka’s famous food scene in just over a week. -
Enjoy an Authentic Countryside HomestayEscape the cities and experience rural Japanese life with a traditional homestay in Shizuoka, surrounded by beautiful scenery and views of Mt Fuji. -
Taste Japan’s Incredible CuisineFrom fresh sushi and savoury okonomiyaki to local sake tastings and farm-to-table meals, this trip is a dream for food lovers. -
Visit Hiroshima & Miyajima IslandLearn about Hiroshima’s moving history and visit Miyajima’s iconic floating torii gate, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. -
Ride Japan’s Legendary TrainsTravel like a local aboard ultra-fast bullet trains and scenic railways with unforgettable seasonal views along the journey. -
Explore Tokyo’s Many SidesExperience the energy of Shibuya, the peaceful atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and the colourful fashion and culture of Harajuku.
Ride the famous shinkansen bullet train to historic Kyoto and Hiroshima, uncovering centuries of culture and powerful history along the way, before ending your journey in the food-lover’s paradise of Osaka.
Prices from
$1500 $1700
Itinerary
Tokyo
Tokyo
Kawane (or Gotemba)
Kyoto
Kyoto
Hiroshima
Hiroshima
Osaka
Osaka
Tour program
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- Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan, where ancient traditions meet futuristic city life. Your adventure begins in the dynamic capital of Tokyo, a city bursting with energy, culture and endless discoveries. From fascinating museums and world-famous shopping districts to hidden alleyways packed with tiny restaurants and lively karaoke bars, Tokyo offers something exciting around every corner.
Your journey officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. If you arrive early, you may wish to explore more of the city, perhaps joining an optional Urban Adventure Tour or wandering through Shinjuku’s famous Omoide Yokocho, also known as “Memory
Lane,” where narrow lantern-lit alleys are filled with local eateries and bustling bars serving delicious Japanese street food.
After the meeting, join your leader for a short orientation walk around the neighbourhood near your hotel before heading out for an optional dinner with your fellow travellers – the perfect chance to get your first taste of Japan and start getting to know the group. -
Accommodation- Hotel (1 night)
-
Meals- There are no meals included on this day.
-
Included activities- Tokyo - welcome meeting and orientation walk
- Special information
- It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
- Today, dive into the contrasts that make Tokyo so fascinating as you explore both its ancient traditions and modern energy. Begin in historic Asakusa, one of the city’s oldest and most traditional neighbourhoods, where you’ll visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple.
Founded nearly 1400 years ago, this beautiful temple dates back to a time when Tokyo was still a small fishing village. Afterwards, stroll along Nakamise Dori, a lively shopping street lined with stalls selling local snacks, souvenirs and traditional crafts.
Next, hop aboard Tokyo’s metro and head to the vibrant district of Shibuya. Witness the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world, before escaping the city rush at the peaceful Meiji Shrine, hidden within a tranquil forest in the heart of Tokyo.
Later, return to the city streets and explore colourful Harajuku – the centre of Japan’s bold youth fashion and quirky pop culture scene. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to continue exploring Tokyo at your own pace, whether that means shopping, sampling local food or uncovering hidden corners of the city. - Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Meals
- There are no meals included on this day.
- Included activities
- Tokyo - Sensoji Temple
- Tokyo - Meiji Jingu Shrine
- Tokyo - Shibuya walking tour
-
Optional activities- Tokyo - Shinjuku-gyoen - JPY500
- Tokyo - Yoyogi Park - Free
- Tokyo - Imperial Palace - Free
- Today, leave the busy city behind and journey into Japan’s peaceful countryside. Travel by local train to Kanaya Station before boarding a scenic railway that winds through the mountains and gorges of the Kawane region. The landscapes are especially breathtaking during spring cherry blossom season and autumn, when vibrant colours cover the hillsides. On clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of the iconic Mt Fuji along the way.
This afternoon, visit a local tea farm and immerse yourself in one of Japan’s most treasured traditions. Learn how tea is grown and harvested, try your hand at tea picking and discover the proper techniques for brewing the perfect cup.
Later, enjoy a special cultural experience as you are welcomed into the home of your local host for the night. Sit down to a delicious home-cooked dinner prepared with fresh seasonal vegetables from the garden and gain insight into everyday life in rural Japan while learning a few traditional cooking secrets along the way.
On some departures, you may stay in the countryside area of Gotemba instead of Kawane. This helps support local communities sustainably and ensures a more authentic experience for both travellers and hosts. Here, you may have the opportunity to pick vegetables directly from the garden before sharing a wonderful homemade meal with your hosts. - Accommodation
- Homestay (1 night)
- Meals
- Dinner
-
Included activities- Kawane/Gotemba - Homestay & Home-cooked Dinner
- Kawane - Tea Farm Visit & Tea Brewing & Tasting (or Gotemba - Local farm and vegetable picking)
- Special informationYour travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
You'll need to pack an overnight bag for your homestay tonight, with your valuable and essential belongings. The rest of your luggage will be transferred to your Kyoto hotel.
Your home stay tonight is a rare chance to gain some real insight into rural life in Japan. The group may be split and stay in different houses. Up to three or four travellers may share one household, and the facilities will be shared. You will sleep on traditional futons on tatami mats tonight, just like the locals do.
The scenic train is currently suspended due to damage. While it's being restored, you'll travel by bus instead. Tea picking season is from the end of April to October, but you can still learn how tea is properly brewed at the farm outside of this season. Both are only for departures that travel to Kawane today.
For below departures (by departure code), you'll follow the itinerary for Gotemba instead:
CJSH260402, CJSH260403, CJSH260409, CJSH260416, CJSH260507, CJSH260514, CJSH260731, CJSH260808, CJSH260903, CJSH260904, CJSH260910, CJSH260924, CJSH260925, CJSH261001, CJSH261022, CJSH261101, CJSH261121
- After enjoying a traditional Japanese-style breakfast with your hosts, continue your journey by bus and the famous shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto. Once known as Heian-kyo, meaning “capital of tranquillity and peace,” Kyoto has long been considered the cultural heart of Japan, home to thousands of temples, shrines and beautifully preserved gardens.
This afternoon, explore the vibrant Nishiki Market, often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” Wander through narrow market lanes filled with local delicacies and regional specialties, from pickled vegetables and fresh seafood to beautifully crafted Kyo-wagashi sweets and traditional snacks unique to Kyoto.
As evening falls, make your way to the atmospheric streets of Gion, Kyoto’s legendary geisha district. Lantern-lit alleyways, traditional wooden teahouses and centuries-old customs create an unforgettable setting. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a gracefully dressed geisha or maiko hurrying between appointments, offering a rare glimpse into one of Japan’s most elegant traditions. - Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Meals
- Breakfast
- Included activities
- Kyoto - Gion District walk
- Kyoto - Nishiki-Koji Market
- Optional activities
- Kyoto - Gion Corner cultural centre - JPY5500
- Kyoto - Imperial Palace - Free
- Special information
- Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
- Today, visit one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photogenic landmarks – the stunning Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Famous for its endless pathways of vivid scarlet torii gates winding through the forested hillside, the shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Japanese god of rice and prosperity. Walking beneath the thousands of gates creates a truly unforgettable and atmospheric experience.
The rest of the day is yours to explore Kyoto at your own pace. You may wish to stroll along the peaceful Philosopher’s Path, wander through the charming streets of the Old Town lined with traditional wooden houses or visit the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, made famous by Yukio Mishima’s renowned novel.
This evening, perhaps settle into a local restaurant and enjoy more of Kyoto’s incredible cuisine. Your leader will be happy to recommend the best hidden spots for an authentic dining experience. - Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Meals
- There are no meals included on this day.
- Included activities
- Kyoto - Fushimi Inari-Taisha
- Optional activities
- Kyoto - Kyoto Tower - JPY900
- Kyoto - Bike hire (per day) from - JPY1200
- Kyoto - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) - JPY500
- Kyoto - Ryoanji Zen Garden - JPY600
- Kyoto - Arashiyama Bamboo Forest - Free
- Kyoto - Path of Philosophy (Tetsugaku-no-Michi) - Free
- Today, travel by express train and shinkansen to Hiroshima, a city known for both its powerful history and incredible food culture. Along the way, stop at the historic Saijo Sake Brewery Street, one of Japan’s most celebrated sake-producing regions. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn about traditional sake brewing methods and sample locally crafted varieties unique to the area.
This evening, head out with your leader to try one of Hiroshima’s most famous specialties – okonomiyaki. This delicious savoury pancake is layered with cabbage, noodles, egg and your choice of meat or seafood, making it a must-try dish while visiting the city. - Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Meals
- Dinner
- Included activities
- Hiroshima - Okonomiyaki dinner
- Hiroshima - Saijo Sake Brewery Street visit & tasting
- Special information
- Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours
- Today, gain a deeper understanding of Hiroshima’s history with a visit to the Genbaku Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum, both dedicated to remembering the events of August 1945. Located just metres from the atomic bomb’s detonation point, the A-Bomb Dome remarkably survived the blast and remains preserved almost exactly as it stood after the explosion, serving as a powerful symbol of peace and resilience. Nearby, the Peace Memorial Park honours the victims through moving museums, monuments and memorials devoted to hope for a peaceful future.
Later, travel to the nearby island of Miyajima, famous for its iconic “floating” torii gate rising from the sea. Surrounded by peaceful scenery and friendly roaming deer, the island offers a completely different atmosphere from the city. You may choose to hike or take the cable car to the top of Mt Misen for breathtaking panoramic views across the Inland Sea.
The remainder of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Perhaps unwind at the beautiful Shukkeien Garden, where tranquil ponds, waterfalls and traditional teahouses provide the perfect escape after a day of sightseeing. -
Accommodation- Hotel (1 night)
- Meals
- There are no meals included on this day.
- Included activities
- Hiroshima - Miyajima Island
- Hiroshima - Peace Park & A-Bomb Dome
- Hiroshima - Peace Museum
- Optional activities
- Miyajima - Itsukushima-jinja Shine - JPY300
- Jump back on the train this morning and head to Osaka – Japan’s unofficial food capital. When you arrive, follow your leader on an orientation walk, then explore the city at your own pace. Meet in the evening for a street food walking tour with your group through Dotombori District and Kuromon Market and celebrate the last night of your trip.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Meals
- Dinner
- Included activities
- Osaka - Dotombori and Kuromon Street Food Walking Tour
- With no further activities planned after breakfast, your trip comes to an end today. If you would like to extend your stay in Osaka, and it’s recommended that you do, just reach out to your booking agent ahead of time.
- Meals
- There are no meals included on this day
Discover Japan’s ancient traditions, vibrant cities and incredible food in one unforgettable adventure.
Inclusions and activities
-
DestinationJapan -
Meals1 breakfast, 3 dinners -
TransportPublic Bus, Metro, Local Train, Bullet Train - AccommodationHotel (7 nights), Homestay (1 night)
- Included activities
- Tokyo - welcome meeting and orientation walk
- Tokyo - Sensoji Temple
- Tokyo - Meiji Jingu Shrine
- Tokyo - Shibuya walking tour
- Kawane/Gotemba - Homestay & Home-cooked Dinner
- Kawane - Tea Farm Visit & Tea Brewing & Tasting (or Gotemba - Local farm and vegetable picking)
- Kyoto - Gion District walk
- Kyoto - Nishiki-Koji Market
- Kyoto - Fushimi Inari-Taisha
- Hiroshima - Okonomiyaki dinner
- Hiroshima - Saijo Sake Brewery Street visit & tasting
- Hiroshima - Miyajima Island
- Hiroshima - Peace Park & A-Bomb Dome
- Hiroshima - Peace Museum
- Osaka - Dotombori and Kuromon Street Food Walking Tour
- Optional activities
- Tokyo - Shinjuku-gyoen - JPY500
- Tokyo - Yoyogi Park - Free
- Tokyo - Imperial Palace - Free
- Kyoto - Gion Corner cultural centre - JPY5500
- Kyoto - Imperial Palace - Free
- Kyoto - Kyoto Tower - JPY900
- Kyoto - Bike hire (per day) from - JPY1200
- Kyoto - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) - JPY500
- Kyoto - Ryoanji Zen Garden - JPY600
- Kyoto - Arashiyama Bamboo Forest - Free
- Kyoto - Path of Philosophy (Tetsugaku-no-Michi) - Free
- Miyajima - Itsukushima-jinja Shine - JPY300
Planning a group trip? Contact our manager at info@eurotourclub.com — we’ll help you organize every detail for a smooth and unforgettable journey.
Trip moments from our travelers
Before you book you should know
Is this trip right for you?
- Japan is best experienced on foot and through its efficient public transport system. Travellers should feel comfortable spending long days walking, navigating busy train stations and carrying their own luggage when necessary. Comfortable walking shoes and light packing are highly recommended for this trip.
- Hotel rooms in Japan are often smaller than many travellers may be used to, particularly double rooms, which can average around 20 square metres. While every effort will be made to provide requested double rooms, twin rooms may occasionally be allocated during busy travel periods.
- The countryside homestay experience on Day 3 usually takes place in Kawane and includes a visit to a local tea farm. However, to support local communities sustainably and avoid overwhelming hosts, some departures may stay in Gotemba instead. In these cases, guests will experience rural Japanese life through a different homestay, helping harvest fresh vegetables from the garden before enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal prepared together with their hosts.
Visa information
Visa information is provided by Sherpa, a trusted third-party. The “Add connection” feature only shows transit visa requirements and does not cover full entry visas. U.S. citizens traveling to Italy for stays under 90 days typically do not need a tourist visa. Additional service fees may apply if you choose to purchase a visa through Sherpa. Always check official sources before traveling.
Accommodation
Hotel (7 nights), Homestay (1 night)
Traditional Japanese Accommodation
Some stays on this trip may include traditional Japanese-style accommodation such as ryokans or minshukus (local inns and guesthouses). These unique properties offer an authentic cultural experience, where guests sleep on futon mattresses placed on tatami mat floors. During the day, bedding is often stored away to create more living space.
Rooms are usually minimalist in style and may not include standard furniture such as beds or chairs. Bathrooms can be compact, and many properties feature shared bathing facilities with designated usage times or booking systems. Your local leader will explain local customs and etiquette, including the tradition of removing shoes and wearing slippers indoors. Some accommodations may also have a curfew, typically around midnight.
Please note that this style of accommodation may not be suitable for travellers with knee, hip or back issues, as getting up and down from the floor is often required. Some properties provide only one room key, though it can usually be left at reception if travellers wish to explore separately. Additional cleaning fees may apply if bedding or towels are heavily stained and require professional cleaning.
Accommodation Availability
Due to the significant rise in tourism across Japan, accommodation availability can occasionally be limited. In some cases, accommodations listed in the itinerary may need to be substituted with similar alternatives to ensure the smooth operation of your departure.
Traditional Japanese Accommodation
Some stays on this trip may include traditional Japanese-style accommodation such as ryokans or minshukus (local inns and guesthouses). These unique properties offer an authentic cultural experience, where guests sleep on futon mattresses placed on tatami mat floors. During the day, bedding is often stored away to create more living space.
Rooms are usually minimalist in style and may not include standard furniture such as beds or chairs. Bathrooms can be compact, and many properties feature shared bathing facilities with designated usage times or booking systems. Your local leader will explain local customs and etiquette, including the tradition of removing shoes and wearing slippers indoors. Some accommodations may also have a curfew, typically around midnight.
Please note that this style of accommodation may not be suitable for travellers with knee, hip or back issues, as getting up and down from the floor is often required. Some properties provide only one room key, though it can usually be left at reception if travellers wish to explore separately. Additional cleaning fees may apply if bedding or towels are heavily stained and require professional cleaning.
Accommodation Availability
Due to the significant rise in tourism across Japan, accommodation availability can occasionally be limited. In some cases, accommodations listed in the itinerary may need to be substituted with similar alternatives to ensure the smooth operation of your departure.
Flights
Please note: flight arrangements
We can assist with booking flights from any airport in the United States that is convenient for you. Occasionally, alternative routing or airlines may need to be arranged due to availability, but we will always ensure your flights align with your tour dates and provide the same level of comfort and reliability. Our goal is to make your journey to Italy smooth, stress-free, and perfectly timed with your tour.
We can assist with booking flights from any airport in the United States that is convenient for you. Occasionally, alternative routing or airlines may need to be arranged due to availability, but we will always ensure your flights align with your tour dates and provide the same level of comfort and reliability. Our goal is to make your journey to Italy smooth, stress-free, and perfectly timed with your tour.
Dates and prices
Lock in your trip with a 50% flexible deposit
- StartingWednesday 8 Oct 2025
- EndingWednesday 15 Oct 2025
- Prices from$1500 $1800
- Sunday 12 Oct 2025
- Sunday 19 Oct 2025
- $1800
- Wednesday 15 Oct 2025
- Wednesday 22 Oct 2025
- $1800
- Sunday 19 Oct 2025
- Sunday 26 Oct 2025
- $1500 $1800
- Wednesday 22 Oct 2025
- Wednesday 29 Oct 2025
- $1500 $1800
Starting Wednesday 8 Oct 2025
Ending Wednesday 15 Oct 2025
$1500 $1800
Starting Sunday 12 Oct 2025
Ending Sunday 19 Oct 2025
$1500 $1800
Starting Wednesday 15 Oct 2025
Ending Wednesday 22 Oct 2025
$1500 $1800
Starting Sunday 19 Oct 2025
Ending Sunday 26 Oct 2025
$1500 $1800
Need help choosing a date?
Important notes
1. We are currently unable to offer a single supplement, airport transfers or additional accommodation in Japan due to limited availability.
2. It is essential that you pack light and compact for rail travel in Japan. Luggage size restrictions apply. Please review the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.
2. It is essential that you pack light and compact for rail travel in Japan. Luggage size restrictions apply. Please review the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.
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Got questions about our trips?
Lets talk
(959)-500-5669
(786)-917‑8661
Let's chat on WhatsAPP wa.me/17869178661
Or just email us info@eurotourclub.com
(959)-500-5669
(786)-917‑8661
Let's chat on WhatsAPP wa.me/17869178661
Or just email us info@eurotourclub.com
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