19 Day Trails Of Japan
Australian Company Owned
Bullet Train
Small Group
7 Day Change of Mind to get the full Refund
Day by Day Itinerary
Sapporo, Hakodate, Sendai, Kanazawa, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Tokyo
Highlights
- Three exciting Bullet Train (shinkansen) rides
- Explore the dynamic city of Sapporo including the Sapporo Beer Museum
- Visit the quaint port town of Otaru with visits to the Kitaichi Glass and Music Box Museum
- Travel to beautiful and extinct volcanic Mt. Hakodate with a stop at Motomachi to see beautifully preserved streets and historic buildings
- Full-day tour of Matsushima and its historical sites
- Delve into the rich culture of Kanazawa and the incredible Kenrokuen Garden
- Take a guided tour of Osaka and journey to the sacred Mt. Koya to visit the revered Okunoin Temple
- Experience a memorable visit to Hiroshima and the the floating tori gate at Miyajima Island
- Visit the beautifully preserved and UNESCO listed Himeji Castle
- Guided tours of Kyoto and Tokyo
Itinerary
Arrive Sapporo
Konichiwa! Welcome to Sapporo – Japan!
On arrival, make your own way to the your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Meal: In-flight meals
Accommodation: Ibis styles Sapporo 3* or similar
Please note: When booking international flights, please ensure that your arrival date falls on Day 1 of the itinerary.
Sapporo
After breakfast, you’ll have a full day to explore the dynamic city of Sapporo. Start your day with a visit to the historic Clock Tower, which is Japan’s oldest clock tower and a symbol of the city’s rich past. Next, we make our way to the Sapporo Beer Museum, located in the Sapporo Garden Park in Higashi-ku. This museum, recognized as a Hokkaido Heritage site in 2004, is Japan’s only beer museum and offers an engaging look into the history and brewing techniques of Sapporo beer.
Late this afternoon, you will return to your hotel for an evening of leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ibis styles Sapporo 3* or similar
Sapporo 
Otaru Sapporo
Today, spend a full day exploring the picturesque city of Otaru. Begin with a visit to Otaru Canal, a historic waterway that was central to the city’s bustling port activities in the early 20th century. Stroll along the canal and enjoy its charming surroundings. Next, head to the Kitaichi Glass Museum, where you can marvel at a stunning collection of glass art and antiques, reflecting the region’s rich glassmaking heritage. Continue to the Music Box Museum, which features beautifully crafted music boxes and allows you to create your own unique piece. Explore Sakaimachi Street, known for its quaint shops and local souvenirs, and visit Susukino, a lively entertainment district with various shops and dining options. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon to unwind.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Ibis styles Sapporo 3* or similar
Sapporo Hakodate
Today, we travel to Mt. Hakodate and stop at the charming Motomachi area. This neighborhood is renowned for its beautifully preserved streets and historic buildings. Next, we make your way to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, a captivating commercial complex comprised of four buildings. These structures have been thoughtfully repurposed from a historic red brick warehouse originally built in 1909, now serving as a vibrant shopping and dining destination.
Following this we head to Mt. Hakodate, an extinct volcanic mountain that offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Hakodate’s bay and cityscape. The breathtaking scenery from the mountain provides a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs. In the afternoon, check into your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Resol Hakodate 3* or similar
Please note: Your luggage will be transferred to Sendai today. Please pack an overnight bag for your stay in Hakodate and ensure your luggage is at the hotel lobby by 8am in time for the transfer collection.
Hakodate Goryokaku 
Sendai
After breakfast, we drive to Goryokaku for a brief photo stop then board the bullet train (shinkansen) to Sendai. Upon arrival, we visit Sendai Castle, also known as Aoba Castle. This historic Japanese castle, located in Sendai, was the seat of the Date clan during the Edo period and was recognized as Sendai-jo. In 2003, the castle ruins were designated a National Historic Site, reflecting its historical significance.
Next, enjoy some time exploring Sunmall Ichibancho, a popular shopping area in Sendai. After your day of sightseeing and shopping, check into your hotel for an overnight stay.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Vista Sendai 3* or similar
Sendai Matsushima Sendai
Today, embark on a full-day tour of Matsushima, renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and historical sites. Begin your day with a leisurely cruise around Matsushima Bay, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the archipelago’s picturesque islands and tranquil waters.
Next, visit Zuiganji Temple, a significant Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple located in Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture. Established in 828 during the Heian period by the esteemed monk Jikaku Daishi, Zuiganji Temple is part of the Myōshin-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. Explore its beautiful grounds and historic structures, which offer a serene glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage.
In the late afternoon, return to your hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure to relax.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Vista Sendai 3* or similar
Sendai Omiya Kanazawa
After breakfast, we will depart from Sendai and travel by train to Kanazawa, with a transfer at Omiya. Upon arriving in Kanazawa, begin your visit with a tour of the Higashi Chaya District. This historic area, known for its traditional wooden teahouses and charming atmosphere, offers a glimpse into Kanazawa’s rich cultural heritage. After exploring the district, you will check into your hotel and have the rest of the day to relax and settle in.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Vista Kanazawa 3* or similar
Kanazawa
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a full and vibrant day exploring Kanazawa. Start with a visit to Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s three ‘perfect gardens,’ renowned for its beauty throughout all seasons. Next, head to Omicho Market, a spacious indoor market where you can browse stalls offering fresh produce, seafood, meat, and a variety of specialty dishes. Finish your day in the Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional charm and unique shops.
Return to your hotel in the afternoon and enjoy a relaxing evening before staying overnight in Kanazawa.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Vista Kanazawa 3* or similar
Please note: Your luggage will be transferred to Osaka today. Please pack an overnight bag for your stay in Kanazawa tonight and ensure your luggage is at the hotel lobby by 8am this morning in time for the transfer collection.
Osaka Mt.Koya Osaka
After breakfast, you will embark on a journey to Mt. Koya, a significant and serene temple settlement located in Wakayama Prefecture, south of Osaka. This sacred mountain is renowned for its spiritual significance and picturesque landscapes.
Your visit will include a stop at Okunoin Temple, one of the most important and revered temples on Mt. Koya. Explore the expansive temple grounds and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred site. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Torodo, or Lantern Hall, where thousands of lanterns are illuminated in a deeply spiritual setting.
Take some time to stroll around the Gokusho area, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and reflect on the beauty of the mountain.
After your enriching visit, you will return to Osaka in the afternoon. Spend the evening at your leisure and stay overnight in Osaka.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Sarasa Hotel Shin-Osaka 3* or similar
Optional tour: Osaka Food Tour
Please note: Your luggage will be transferred to Kyoto today. Please pack an overnight bag for your two night stay in Hiroshima.
Osaka Hiroshima
Today, you will travel to Shin Osaka Station and board the bullet train (shinkansen) bound for Hiroshima. Upon arrival, you’ll have some time to explore Hon-dori, a lively shopping and entertainment street in Hiroshima. After enjoying the area, check into your hotel. You’ll have the evening to relax and unwind, with an overnight stay in Hiroshima.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel MyStays Hiroshima Peace Park 3* or similar
Hiroshima 
Miyajima Hiroshima
After breakfast, you will begin your day with a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, located within Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in central Hiroshima. This museum, established in August 1955 alongside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Hall, is dedicated to documenting the events and aftermath of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II.
Following your museum visit, you will take a ferry to Miyajima, a picturesque island in Hiroshima Bay, known for its lush forests and historic temples. On the island, marvel at the iconic Great Torii Gate, which is strikingly orange and partially submerged at high tide. This gate marks the entrance to Itsukushima Shrine, an ancient shrine originally constructed in the 12th century. Additionally, explore the Museum of History and Folklore, housed in a 19th-century merchant’s home, where you can view a collection of cultural artifacts.
In the late afternoon, you will return to your hotel to relax and enjoy the rest of your evening.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel MyStays Hiroshima Peace Park 3* or similar
Hiroshima Himeji Kyoto
Today, you will travel to Himeji, a city in the Kansai region of Japan. Your visit will include exploring Himeji Castle, a magnificent hilltop castle complex located in the Hyōgo Prefecture. Known for its well-preserved architecture and beautiful white facade, Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most iconic castles.
After your visit to Himeji Castle, you will continue your journey to Kyoto. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and settle in. Enjoy your evening in Kyoto, where you will stay overnight and have the opportunity to begin exploring this historic and culturally rich city.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Urban Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium 3* or similar
Kyoto
Today is a full day at your leisure to explore Kyoto at your own pace. This is your opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage, visit its famous temples and shrines, or simply enjoy its charming streets and neighborhoods. You might choose to wander through the historic Gion district, renowned for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. Alternatively, explore the serene gardens of the Kyoto Imperial Palace or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Philosopher’s Path.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Urban Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium 3* or similar
Kyoto Nara Kyoto
Today, you will travel to Nara to explore several of its renowned attractions. Begin with a visit to Todai-ji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple complex that was once one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara. This impressive site houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) and is a significant cultural and religious landmark.
Next, head to Kasuga Taisha, a Shinto shrine famous for its bright vermillion columns and numerous stone lanterns. Originally established in 768 A.D., this shrine is a revered site with a rich history.
Continue your visit at Nara Deer Park, a beautiful public park located at the base of Mount Wakakusa. Established in 1880, it is one of Japan’s oldest parks and is known for its friendly, free-roaming deer that have become a symbol of the city.
In the afternoon, return to Kyoto to explore Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, and Nishiki Market, known for its vibrant food stalls and local delicacies. After a day of sightseeing, return to your hotel in Kyoto for an overnight stay.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Urban Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium 3* or similar
Kyoto
After breakfast, you’ll have a full tour of Kyoto’s renowned Higashiyama District. This historic area is rich in traditional architecture and cultural landmarks. Begin with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera, a renowned Buddhist temple located in eastern Kyoto. Part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site, Kiyomizu-dera is famous for its stunning wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Following your visit to Kiyomizu-dera, head to Nishiki Market, a bustling marketplace located in downtown Kyoto. Situated on the east end of Nishikikoji Street, just north of Shijo Street and west of Teramachi Street, Nishiki Market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and traditional crafts.
After a day of exploration and discovery, return to your hotel in Kyoto for a relaxing overnight stay.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Urban Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium 3* or similar
Kyoto Tokyo
After breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and board a Shinkansen bound for Tokyo. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our tour guide who will lead you through some of Tokyo’s most iconic attractions.
Start with a visit to Asakusa Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and one of its most significant Buddhist temples, located in the historic Asakusa district. Once associated with the Tendai sect of Buddhism, Sensoji Temple became an independent entity after World War II. Explore the vibrant Nakamise Street, which is lined with traditional shops and street food stalls leading up to the temple.
Next, head to Tokyo Skytree, an impressive broadcasting, restaurant, and observation tower that offers panoramic views of the city. Continue to Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine located in Shibuya, Tokyo, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. This serene shrine is nestled within a lush forested area, providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
After exploring these landmarks, spend some time discovering the dynamic area of Shibuya, known for its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
In the late afternoon, return to your hotel to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Villa Fontaine Kayabacho 3* or similar
Please note: Your luggage will be transferred to Tokyo today. Please ensure ensure your luggage is at the hotel lobby by 8am this morning in time for the transfer collection.
Optional tour: Kyoto - Cycling Tour
Take a spin down the Path of Philosophy on this Kyoto tour that gives you an overview of the city while using a mode of transport preferred by locals: the humble bicycle. See shrines, temples and mountains — this is an enlightening escape from the city. Cycle along the ancient canals of Kyoto, stroll through the expansive grounds at Nanzenji Temple and discover the meaning of tranquillity along the famous Path of Philosophy.
Tokyo
Today, you will have a full day to explore and shop in some of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts. Start your day in Shinjuku, a bustling area known for its diverse shopping options, entertainment, and towering skyscrapers. Enjoy exploring its many department stores, fashion boutiques, and bustling streets.
Next, head to Akihabara, Tokyo’s renowned electronics district. Famous for its extensive range of electronic goods, from tiny specialty shops to large department stores like Yodobashi Multimedia Akiba, Akihabara is also a hub for anime, manga, and gaming enthusiasts.
Continue your day in Ginza, one of Tokyo’s premier shopping districts. Ginza is renowned for its luxury boutiques, high-end department stores, and elegant dining options. Stroll along its sophisticated streets, where you can browse upscale shops and enjoy fine dining at some of the city’s top restaurants and cocktail bars.
After a day of exploration and shopping, return to your hotel in Tokyo for an overnight stay.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Villa Fontaine Kayabacho 3* or similar
Depart Tokyo
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Make your own way to the airport in time for your departure flight.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: NA
Optional tour: Nikko Sightseeing
Take a coach ride to see some of Japan’s most picturesque scenery in the Nikko region. Chuzenjiko Onsen is a hot spring resort town on the shores of Lake Chuzenji at the foot of Mount Nantai. The small town offers some beautiful sightseeing spots, including Chuzenji Temple, a Futarasan Shrine, a nature museum and Kegon Waterfall. It is also the departure point of sightseeing cruises on the lake. The almost 100 meter tall Kegon Waterfall (Kegon no taki) is the most famous of Nikko’s many beautiful waterfalls.
Optional tour: Disneyland and Disney Sea
The Japanese love all things Disney. Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney theme park outside of the United States. It is made up of seven themed lands and Mickey is always in attendance.Tokyo DisneySea is a fantasy water themed park and is part of Tokyo Disney Resort, unique to Japan. It too, is made up of seven themed “ports of call”.
Included
- Small Group Tour – no more than 16 travelers
- 3-star centrally located hotels
- Daily breakfast
- Escorted by professional, English-speaking guide
- All entrance fees to the sites listed (except optional tours)
- Shinkansen and train tickets as per the itinerary
- Luggage transfer service as per the itinerary
Excluded
- International airfares
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Tipping
- Airport transfers
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
Fine Print
How to book and Payments
Asia Vacation Group offers you a “3 Instalment Payment Plan”, you will be required to settle a small deposit followed by a series of instalments when you select to book your departure tour
- First payment: You will be required to settle $300 per person deposit online through our website link.
- Second payment: You will be required to settle second payment at $2,000 per person after 7 days deposit.
- Final payment: Final payment will be collected at 120 days before your travel and you will only pay when you receive our company invoice.
Flexible Cancellation
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7-day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation.
Flight Information
This package excludes international flights.
Airfare Information
– Airline: Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines or similar (20kg for checked baggage per passenger and 7kg hand luggage per passenger, 01-piece check-in baggage each person only
– Some flights will require a minimum of 1 transit (maximum 2).
– All tickets will include 20 kilos checked baggage per person, along with 7 kilos of hand luggage.
– Despite the airlines baggage allowance, we recommend travelling with 20 kilos per person due to restrictions with internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Also, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters is not included. If travelling over this amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable direct.
– Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable. Any changes will be subject to the airline rules and change fees.
– Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required.
– Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are beyond our control.
– Any airline ‘extras’ such as pre-allocated seating is at your own arrangement (additional charges apply)
Important Information
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with NibTravel Insurance to offer you competitive rates for your travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply to arrange your policy.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Please be advised that tipping for tour guides, drivers and bellmen are required and will be collected by your travel consultant 7 days before you depart. A gratuity of $10 per person/day can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry as they have done an impeccable job to serve you through your holiday.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,450 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Paired Solo Traveler
Not available.
Group size: min from 10-16 pax
Triple Share
Upon your request except for cruises
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return and must have more than 2 blank pages.
Australian passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Japan, for stays less than 90 days.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Children
Children must be 2 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent in flight and is subject to change depending on the flight schedule, please refer to the day by day itinerary for the time spent on land.
Cherry Blossoms
Please note that Cherry Blossoms are weather dependent and it is not guaranteed that they will be in bloom at the time of your arrival.
Luggage Policy:
1 Passenger is limited to carrying a maximum of 2 Suitcases with following Dimensions;
1 Suitcase having measurement of L 51 cm x W 31 cm x H 77 cm, with maximum weight 30 KG
1 Common Carry on Cabin Suitcase having L 38cm x W 23cm x H 60cm, with maximum weight of 10kg
Extra Charge for transfers is needed for any overweight and over quota luggages
Coach
* Drivers’ working hours are regulated by Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
* Driver’s daily working hours may not exceed 12 hours, including leaving/returning/standby time (average service hours: 09.00 – 20.00)
* Daily driving time shall not exceed 9 hours. In addition to this, driver must have a daily rest period of at least 8 consecutive hours.
* Daily driving distance shall not exceed 500 KM.
* ONLY 1 piece of large suitcase per guest will be accepted to be loaded in coach trunk.
* Should there the bus trunk capacity is FULL, Guests have to bear the luggage transfer cost according to their respective dimension or weight.
* If over 35 pax/coach, luggage transfer truck is required on Arrival and Departure.
* Regarding current official government guidelines in safe coach operation, passengers may be required to wear masks and body temperature screening will be conducted whenever it is necessary.
* There is also a possibility of changing in passenger capacity per coach to keep passengers apart from each other. (ex. Maximum 25 pax per coach) Therefore, with this in mind, please note that price may change based on government measures.
How to Extend Your Stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay before/behind and/or post-tour. $200per person is applied for trip extension or early arrivals.
If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
- Follow the “Book Now” prompts, until you reach the “Anything else we need to know?” field
- Here, please specify your preferred flight arrangements and if you require additional accommodation, with the number of nights needed.
- After finalising your purchase and submitting your booking form, a member of our Reservation team will be in contact with you via email to verify your request.
The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice, due 90 days prior to departure, and is strictly subject to availability. From $200 per person is applied for trip extension or early arrivals (subject to availability and applicable fare difference).
Dates & Prices
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