Japan Uncovered - 11 days
Japan Uncovered - 11 days
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Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Japan with the "Japan Uncovered" tour. Begin your adventure in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, where you'll explore iconic sites, participate in a sushi-making class, and experience the vibrant nightlife. Marvel at the majestic Mount Fuji from a cable car and relax in a traditional ryokan with onsen baths in Hakone. Discover the cultural treasures of Kyoto, including the Golden Pavilion and a mesmerizing geisha performance. Visit the serene Miyajima Island and pay homage at Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Museum. Conclude your trip in Osaka with a canal boat ride and a lively farewell dinner. Travel seamlessly with a 7-day JR rail pass and enjoy comfortable accommodations throughout. This cultural tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, culinary delights, and traditional experiences, all guided by a bilingual adventure leader. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Japan! On arrival in Tokyo, make your own way to the start hotel. At 16:00, you will meet the rest of the group and your adventure leader at a welcome meeting in the lounge of the hotel.
We then head for an included kaiseki dinner - a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. Afterwards, enjoy panoramic views over the city from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. ...more ...less
Day 2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
We start the day with a visit to teamLab Planets Tokyo, an extraordinary immersive experience where glowing installations and interactive art transport you to a world of wonder. Afterwards we'll make our way to Odaiba, Tokyo’s lively waterfront district. Take time to explore and enjoy a peaceful walk along the promenade. Be sure to capture memorable photos with iconic landmarks like the towering Gundam or Odaiba’s very own Statue of Liberty.In the early afternoon, we'll head for Meiji Jingu Shrine, completed in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Then, enjoy free time in the vibrant Harajuku district, known for its unique fashion and eclectic atmosphere. The adventure continues to the bustling Shibuya district, where you can experience the world's busiest pedestrian crossing. Take a moment to find the Hachiko statue, an iconic symbol of loyalty and devotion. The evening offers you the chance to join a sushi-making class. Led by a seasoned professional instructor, you'll have the unique opportunity to craft this Japanese delicacy. Come nightfall, consider exploring the energetic Roppongi district. This trendy area is known for its vibrant nightlife!
Day 3: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
The morning begins with a sunrise exploration of Tsukiji Fish Market, a bustling hub of shops and restaurants renowned for its fresh seafood. We'll continue on to Asakusa, where we'll visit the iconic Sensoji Temple. The temple's surroundings host a vibrant market with local treats and traditional souvenirs. Lunch will be at leisure, but if you're up for something unique, why not try a sumo experience with lunch? This rare opportunity lets you meet former sumo wrestlers and share a meal of Chanko Nabe with them. Please contact us if you would like to pre-book this experience. Please note: The optional sumo experience must be prebooked at least 8 weeks in advance. Later, a boat ride awaits on the Sumida River in Asakusa. Cruise along and enjoy captivating views of Tokyo's skyline. Returning to solid ground, the rest of the afternoon will be at leisure.There’s no shortage of options to fill your evening in Tokyo. Dive into the lively nightlife of Shibuya, take a swing at a batting cage in Shinjuku, treat yourself to luxury shopping in Ginza, or explore the anime culture of Akihabara.
Day 4: Lake Kawaguchi
Location: Hakone
Accommodation Name: Hakone Pax Yoshino
Meals Included: Dinner
Tokyo - Hakone. After breakfast this morning, we depart Tokyo and head for the mountains, and one mountain in particular...
We'll arrive in Moto-Hakone just before lunch. Once here, prepare to test your sea legs aboard a pirate ship cruise over the scenic Lake Ashi. This unconventional vessel offers panoramic views of towering mountains, clear waters, and, on a clear day, the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji. We'll then ascent into the mountain peaks via a cable car. This journey promises the chance to admire the natural beauty of the Hakone region.
We will be staying in Hakone at a hotel offering a ryokan experience. A ryokan is a Japanese bath and sleeping house. You will have the chance to relax in a steamy onsen bath and will enjoy a mouth-watering multi-course Kaiseki dinner.
Day 5: Lake Kawaguchi
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hakone - Kyoto. Enjoy a leisurely morning in Hakone. After breakfast, you have time to enjoy another onsen bath before we bid farewell to Hakone and make our way to the rail station for the journey to Kyoto.
Upon reaching Kyoto and completing the check-in process, the exploration resumes with a stroll to the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu Dera Temple. The ancient temple is perched on the hillsides and offers panoramic views of Kyoto.
Returning to the city center, enjoy a guided tour of Kyoto's renowned geisha districts, particularly the enchanting Gion. In the evening, attend a traditional geisha show.
Afterwards, the city is yours to explore. Consider revisiting the Gion area, where many delicious traditional Japanese restaurants await.
Day 6: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae
This morning, we visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is even more impressive in person than it is in the photos! We'll stroll through the red torii gates before heading to Nishiki Market. Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' enjoy free time to grab lunch from one of its hundreds of shops and restaurants.
In the early afternoon, we gather for a visit to the Sake Museum. This unique establishment is dedicated to the history, creation, and cultural significance of Japanese rice wine. Following the visit to the Sake Museum, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to spend at leisure.
Day 7: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae
Today, find your inner peace at the Daisen-in Temple. Engage in a special meditation class led by a Buddhist monk, allowing you to discover the art of mindfulness and relaxation. After the meditation session, admire the temple's traditional Zen garden, renowned as one of the most beautiful in Japan.
We will then some of Kyoto's iconic sites. Firstly, the UNESCO-listed Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). This Zen temple, adorned with layers of gold leaf, casts shimmering reflections across the serene pond it gracefully stands over. Then, visit the Imperial Palace, which served as the residence for Japan's Imperial family until 1868.
As the day of sightseeing concludes, the evening is yours to spend at leisure. Consider venturing into the downtown area to experience Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.
Day 8: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Hotel Hiroshima
Kyoto - Hiroshima. We check-out this morning and drop off our luggage for safe keeping. Opt to embark on an adventurous sightseeing tour of the Arashiyama district aboard a rickshaw (booked & paid locally).
Spending the afternoon in the Arashiyama area, we'll break for lunch before we head to the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Wander through this natural wonderland and continue your exploration at the Tenryu-ji Temple gardens. Home to ponds, landscaped zones, and traditional structures, the temple gardens showcase the artistry of Japanese garden design.
Then it's back to the station as we board a bullet train to Hiroshima. Check-in on arrival before your first evening in the city is at leisure.
Day 9: Hiroshima
Location: Hiroshima
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Hotel Hiroshima
Today we make the short ferry trip to Miyajima Island, famous for the iconic red torii gate which appears to float on the water. Enjoy panoramic views of the island as we ride the Miyajima Ropeway cable car to the top of Mount Misen. Returning to sea level, the afternoon is dedicated to further exploration of Miyajima Island's captivating landscapes.
Returning to Hiroshima, there's the option to join your group for a traditional okonomiyaki dinner this evening. These savoury pancakes are topped with cabbage, meat, and seafood and are a specialty in the area.
Day 10: Hiroshima
Location: Hiroshima
Accommodation Name: Cross Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Hiroshima - Osaka. This morning, we take a sobering but important visit to the Peace Memorial Museum to learn more about the tragic events of 1945 when Hiroshima and Nagasaki were devastated by atomic weapons. With the aid of an audio guide, you'll navigate through the exhibits before enjoying some free time for lunch.
After our visit, we take the train to Osaka. Enjoy a short boat ride down the canal in the lively Dotonbori district before enjoying our final group meal of the tour. Sample traditional Takoyaki before we enjoy a few drinks on a craft beer crawl.
Day 11: Osaka
Location: Osaka
Your Japan adventure ends today. If you would like us to arrange post-tour accommodation or train tickets back to Tokyo, then we can do this on request for you.
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 star hotels -
1 breakfast & 3 dinners
The tour includes 1 breakfast and 3 dinners.
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10 nights 3-4 star hotels including 1 night ryokan experience
Accommodation for 10 nights in 3-4 star hotels, including a night at a ryokan, is included.
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All transportation via public transport (including Suica swipe card) and private transfers
All transportation is included via public transport and private transfers, with a Suica swipe card provided.
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Escorted by a bi-lingual adventure leader
The tour is escorted by a bi-lingual adventure leader.
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Guided sightseeing in Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Miyajima, Hiroshima and Osaka as per itinerary
Guided sightseeing in Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Miyajima, Hiroshima, and Osaka is included as per the itinerary.
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Sushi making class
A sushi making class is included in the tour.
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Entrance to teamLab Planets Tokyo
Entrance to teamLab Planets Tokyo is included.
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Onsen experience in Hakone
An onsen experience in Hakone is included.
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Cruises - Sumida River cruise, Lake Ashi boat cruise & Osaka canal boat ride
The tour includes a Sumida River cruise, Lake Ashi boat cruise, and Osaka canal boat ride.
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Meditation class at a Zen temple
A meditation class at a Zen temple is included.
What's Not Included
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Tipping is not included and is considered a personal gesture.
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Optional activities
Optional activities are not included and can be arranged at your own expense.
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Airport transfers
Airport transfers are not included in the tour package.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of modern and traditional Japanese hospitality with stays at upscale hotels like Hotel Gracery Shinjuku and Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae, and a night at Hakone Pax Yoshino for a ryokan experience with onsen baths.
Age Policy
GH requires our OTG Tour Suitability Form to be completed by all passengers aged 60 plus.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Japan with ease using public transport, including a 7-day JR rail pass, and private transfers. Enjoy scenic rides on bullet trains, ferries, and cable cars, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey across the country.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will experience a blend of modern and traditional Japanese hospitality with stays at upscale hotels like Hotel Gracery Shinjuku and Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae. Additionally, you will spend a night at Hakone Pax Yoshino for a ryokan experience, which includes onsen baths. ...more ...less
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by a bilingual adventure leader who will guide you through the various destinations and activities.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes all transportation via public transport, such as a 7-day JR rail pass, and private transfers. You will enjoy scenic rides on bullet trains, ferries, and cable cars for a comfortable and efficient journey across Japan.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 1 breakfast and 3 dinners. You will also have opportunities to try local delicacies such as okonomiyaki pancakes and participate in a sushi-making class.
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour offers a variety of unique experiences, including a sushi-making class, a meditation class at a Zen temple, a geisha performance, and a craft beer crawl in Osaka. You will also have the opportunity to relax in an onsen bath during your ryokan stay.
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What is the policy on tipping during the tour?
Tipping is not included in the tour package and is considered a personal gesture.
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Are international flights and visas included in the tour package?
No, international flights and visas are not included in the tour package. You will need to arrange these separately.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Japan Uncovered - 11 days
11 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Osaka
Visiting: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2545/JAUN
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
16+ if accompanied by an adult.
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Rail Tours