17 Day Japan Discovery
Australian Owned Company
Return Flights Included
7-Day Change of Mind
Small Group Tour
Day by Day Itinerary
Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima
Highlights
LAST MINUTE OFFERS will not be combined with any promotion.
- Ride the iconic Japanese bullet train
- Tour Tokyo’s incredible sites including the Meiji Shrine, the historic Asakusa, and the grounds of the Imperial Palace
- Take in views of Mount Fuji and a boat cruise on Lake Ashi
- Visit Matsumoto Castle, also known as the “Crow Castle”
- Tour the Miyagawa Open-Air Market and stop at Kamisannomachi Street in Takayama’s Old Town
- Travel to Shirakawa-gō, a UNESCO World Heritage village with over 100 ‘Gassho-style’ houses
- Explore the Higashi Chaya District & Nomura Samurai House in Kanazawa
- Visit the stunning Kenrokuen Gardens – one of the most beautiful in Japan
- Tour Kyoto exploring imperial palaces, Shinto shrines and traditional wooden houses
- Visit Himeji’s “White Heron Castle” – the largest surviving traditional Japanese castle
- Experience the moving memorials in Hiroshima and the floating torii gate at Miyajima Island
- Full day tour of Osaka’s main sites including the lively Dōtonbori area
Itinerary
Tokyo
Konichiwa! Welcome to Tokyo – Japan!
On arrival, you will be met by a local representative the arrivals hall and transferred to your accommodation.
Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Meal: In-flight meals
Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel 3* or similar
Please note:
If purchasing the land only option, please be advised transfers are not included. You will need to make your own way to the joining hotel.
Depending on the time of your departure flight, the start date of your tour may be the day prior.
Tokyo
Today, you will have a full day to explore Japan’s ultramodern capital – Tokyo. Visit Meiji Shrine, located within a 170 acre forest in the centre of the city. Constructed of cypress wood and copper, the shrine commemorates Emperor Meiji, Japan’s 122nd emperor, who presided over Japan’s industrial revolution and emergence onto the world stage. We then visit the Tokyo Skytree and take in the stunning views from its viewing platforms. Next we visit the Asakusa district, and the Sensō-ji Temple – Tokyo’s oldest temple dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. On the approach to Sensō-ji is Nakamise Shopping Street, a centuries-old promenade of shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs like kimonos and bottles of saké. Next, spend some time exploring the grounds of the Imperial Palace. Here, we view the two bridges that form one of the entrances to the inner palace grounds. The current Imperial Palace is home to Japan’s Imperial Family and is located in the former site of Edo Castle, surrounded by an imposing stone wall and moat system.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel 3* or similar
Tokyo
Today is a free day to explore Tokyo, the world’s most populous metropolis. With endless options for shopping, entertainment, culture, and dining, you can immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy exploring Tokyo’s diverse neighborhoods, discovering unique shops, savoring delicious local cuisine, and experiencing the city’s rich cultural offerings.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel 3* or similar
Tokyo 
Hakone 
Lake Ashi Kawaguchiko
After breakfast, depart Tokyo and journey to the picturesque Hakone national park. Upon arrival, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, set within the caldera of Mount Hakone and renowned for its views of Mount Fuji. The lake’s western-inspired boats offer scenic rides through this forested area, which has long attracted hikers and sightseers.
Next, travel to Lake Kawaguchiko, the second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, known for its breathtaking vistas of Mount Fuji. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner. The evening is yours to explore the local nightlife at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Route Inn Kawaguchiko (Onsen Hotel) 3* or similar
Kawaguchiko Mount Fuji Takayama
Today, we depart Kawaguchiko and travel by coach to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station (weather permitting). This point is halfway up Japan’s tallest peak, known as one of the country’s three holy mountains. From here, if the weather is clear, we’ll enjoy views of the majestic summit above the clouds.
Next, we head to Matsumoto to visit Matsumoto Castle, famously known as the “Crow Castle” due to its striking black exterior. Built in the 1500s, it is designated as a National Treasure of Japan.
We then proceed to our final destination, the city of Takayama late this evening.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Associa Takayama Resort 4* or similar
Takayama
Today is a full free day to explore Takayama at your own pace. This charming city, known for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture and vibrant cultural heritage, offers a range of attractions and experiences. Take time to wander through the historic Sanmachi Suji district, famous for its traditional wooden houses, quaint shops, and local crafts. Don’t miss the morning markets, where you can sample fresh produce and unique local goods.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Associa Takayama Resort 4* or similar
Kanazawa Kyoto
Today, explore the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, renowned as one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. Developed over 200 years starting in 1620, it boasts nearly 9,000 trees and 200 plant species. Next, visit the Nomura Samurai House, the historic residence of the Nomura Samurai clan. This fascinating site offers a glimpse into the samurai lifestyle from the 16th to 19th centuries, showcasing exquisite architecture, gardens, and intricately painted screen doors.
In the afternoon, travel by coach from Kanazawa to Kyoto. Upon arrival, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel MONday Kyoto Marutamachi 3* or similar
Kyoto
Today is a full free day to explore Kyoto, the former capital of Japan. Nestled on the island of Honshu, Kyoto is renowned for its stunning array of classical Buddhist temples, serene gardens, majestic imperial palaces, and historic Shinto shrines. Wander through traditional wooden houses and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the chance to see beautiful Geisha in the Gion district, known for its traditional charm and vibrant atmosphere.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel MONday Kyoto Marutamachi 3* or similar
Kyoto Nara Kyoto
This morning, we take a short bus ride to Nara to visit Tōdai-ji (Great Eastern Temple), renowned for its Great Buddha Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Inside, you’ll find a towering 15-meter bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana. After exploring the temple, stroll through Nara Park, where over 1,200 tame sika deer roam freely.
Following this, we return to Kyoto and visit Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This Zen temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features two floors entirely covered in gold leaf, set within a stunning Zen garden. The temple’s architecture beautifully blends Shinden, Samurai, and Zen styles.
Next, visit Heian-jingū (Heian Shinto Shrine), a grand replica of an ancient imperial palace and a symbol of Kyoto’s post-World War II revival. The massive vermillion torii gate is particularly striking.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel MONday Kyoto Marutamachi 3* or similar
Kyoto Osaka
This morning, embark on a full-day coach tour of Kyoto. Our first destination is Arashiyama, renowned for its stunning bamboo forest, officially designated a Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government.
Next, visit the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates that form a captivating network of trails behind the main temple. These trails lead into the forested slopes of Mount Inari, a sacred peak standing at 233 meters. As the most important of the many shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, Fushimi Inari offers incredibly photogenic views.
After the tour, we’ll depart Kyoto and travel to Osaka. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Osaka Sheraton Miyako Hotel 4* or similar
Osaka Himeji Kurashiki Hiroshima
After breakfast, depart Osaka to visit Himeji Castle, also known as the “White Heron Castle.” This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest surviving example of a traditional Japanese castle, consisting of 83 buildings. Its white roof, reminiscent of a heron in flight, gives it its popular name, Shirasagi-jō. Enjoy stunning views of Himeji city from the castle grounds.
Next, travel to Kurashiki, located on Japan’s Seto Inland Sea. Explore the Bikan Historical Quarter, renowned for its well-preserved historic buildings and charming local shops. After your visit, transfer to your hotel in Hiroshima.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Grand Prince Hiroshima Hotel 4* or similar
Please note: Your luggage will be transported separately to Kyoto by courier. We recommend to pack an overnight bag for your two nights in Hiroshima.
Hiroshima Miyajima Hiroshima
After breakfast, board a ferry for a short trip to Miyajima Island, renowned for its lush forests and ancient temples. On arrival, visit the iconic “floating” torii gate, which appears to be partially submerged at high tide and marks the entrance to Itsukushima Shrine, first built in the 12th century. Nearby, explore the Museum of History and Folklore, housed in a 19th-century merchant’s home and showcasing cultural artifacts. Enjoy a stroll along Omotesando Shopping Street, where you can grab lunch before returning to Hiroshima by ferry.
Upon returning to Hiroshima, visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, or Genbaku Dome, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. This partially ruined building is one of the few structures that survived the 1945 atomic bombing and stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s resilience and the tragedy of war.
Next, tour the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which features moving and significant exhibits. The eternal flame in the cenotaph symbolizes the city’s hope for the abolition of nuclear weapons, intended to burn until the last nuclear weapon is destroyed.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Grand Prince Hiroshima Hotel 4* or similar
Hiroshima 
Osaka
This morning, travel from Hiroshima to Osaka via bullet train, arriving at Shin-Osaka Station. Begin your full-day coach tour with a visit to Osaka Castle (entry not included), a key site in Japan’s unification during the 16th century Azuchi-Momoyama period.
Next, explore Kuromon Ichiba, one of Osaka’s main food markets. This lively covered market offers a variety of street food, fresh produce, shellfish, and unique trinkets.
After a lunch break, head to the Minami area, the city’s bustling southern district known for its boutiques, designer outlets, restaurants, and bars.
Later, enjoy a walking tour of the Dōtonbori area, a vibrant entertainment district running along the Dōtonbori canal. Popular for shopping, street food, and nightlife, Dōtonbori is famous for its colorful neon lights and iconic signs, including the famous Glico Man and Kani Doraku crab signs.
Meal: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Osaka Sheraton Miyako Hotel 4* or similar
Osaka
Today is a full free day to explore Osaka at your own pace. Feel free to ask your guide for recommendations on must-see attractions and dining spots. Whether you choose to visit cultural landmarks, shop in bustling districts, or sample local cuisine, the city offers a wealth of options.
In the evening, join the group for a special dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal together and share experiences from your day.
Meal: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Osaka Sheraton Miyako Hotel 4* or similar
Osaka Home
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. You will have free time to explore or relax until it’s time to head to the airport. We will drive you to Kansai Airport for your flight back home.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: In-flight
Please note: If purchasing the land only option, please be advised airport transfers will not be included and you will need to make your own way to the airport.
Home
Arrive home today.
We hope you have enjoyed your journey through Japan trip with AVG Travels.
Included
- Return flights from Australia
- Airport transfers included
- Amazing touring including – ride the iconic Japanese bullet train, take in views of Mount Fuji and a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, explore Shirakawa-gō and Kanazawa, tour Kyoto and Osaka and visit White Heron Castle and Crow Castles.
- 3 and 4-star hotels in central locations
- Small group, no more than 20 travellers
- Daily breakfast and 2 dinners
- Bottled water during touring
- Air-conditioned transportation
- All entrance and sightseeing fees as mentioned in the program
- Experienced local English-speaking guides
Excluded
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Tipping
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
Fine Print
How to book and Payments
AVG Travels offers you a pay in “3 Instalment Payment Plan” as follows
- First payment: $300 per person deposit due at time of booking
- Second payment: $5,000 per person due 7 days after the initial booking.
- Final payment: Balance due 120 days before your departure date.
Please note AVG Travel’s 7-day cooling off offer.
Please refer to the “Flexible Cancellation” section.
Flexible Cancellation
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking, you can request a full refund of your initial deposit. Please note, after 7 days, our standard terms and conditions apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including name, booking number and the reason for cancellation.
Flight Information
This package includes the return flights from Sydney or Melbourne
Interstate Surcharge
Surcharge of $400 for departures from Adelaide & Brisbane and Perth
Airline Selection: We book the best available airlines for your journey, which may include a mix of full-service and low-cost carriers. Specific airline requests can be made at the time of purchase. This includes upgrades to your preferred carrier, premium economy or business class cabins or specific seats. Whilst we will try our best, not all requests can be confirmed.
Flight Conditions: Flights may not be direct and could involve a maximum of two transits.
Ticketing Information: Once issued, tickets are non-refundable. Changes are subject to airline rules, airline change fees, and an AVG Travels change fee of $250 per person.
Passenger Details: Please ensure all traveller names are as per passports. This includes all middle names. Errors may incur a name change fee of $150 plus airline charges, or require the purchase of a new ticket.
Flight Schedule Changes: Any changes or cancellations to airline schedules are outside our control. We recommend staying updated with airline schedules before departure. Additional expenses for extended transits or alternative arrangements are the traveller’s responsibility.
Internal Airfares: Local flights included in your itinerary may utilise low-cost carriers without meals or entertainment. Checked baggage is included; any additional baggage fees are payable at check-in.
Booking Considerations: If travelling with others on separate bookings, we may not be able to guarantee all flights are the same due to availability.
Luggage and Fees: You are responsible for your luggage at all times. Excess baggage fees, if incurred, are payable directly to the airline. All tickets will include 20 kg checked baggage per person, plus 7 kg of hand luggage. We recommend travelling with a max 20kg per person due to restrictions on internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Please note, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters are not included.
No-Show Policy: Missing your flight may result in fees including a no-show fee, airline reissue fee, and possible new ticket purchase. AVG Travels charges a $250 admin fee for re-booking assistance.
Price Adjustments: Prices are final at the time of ticketing. Any subsequent changes may result in additional costs due to factors beyond our control, such as currency fluctuations or airline surcharges.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
- Airline Preferences – You may wish to fly with a particular airline
- Cabin Preferences – These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
- Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) – You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.
- Meal Requests – You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
- Seat Requests – If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.
Important Information
Tour by AVG Travels
Our AVG Travels Experts have crafted this itinerary, blending local insights and travellers preferences to create this unforgettable experience. We have considered attractions, logistics, and unique opportunities, ensuring each detail aligns perfectly. Our expertise transforms trips into seamless adventures, offering bespoke inclusions that will ultimately enhance your time touring with AVG Travels.
Land Only Packages
Transfers ARE NOT included for land only packages.
Please note that customers purchasing the land only option need to make their own way to the joining hotel and the airport at the end of the tour. Asia Vacation Group can assist with purchasing private transfers if choosing the land only option.
Physical Requirements
A reasonable level of fitness is required. Participants should be comfortable navigating stairs, boarding and disembarking from the coach, and walking reasonable distances, typically around 2 kilometers per day or more. Please disclose any physical conditions at the time of booking to assess suitability for the tour.
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. Please note that tipping is not the norm in Japan.
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 $2,399 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Paired Solo Traveler
Not available.
Group size:
Min: 10
Max: 20
Triple Share
Upon request
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller’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. Visa conditions are subject to change at short notice, so it is the responsibility of the traveller to consult with the relevant consulates to ensure they have the appropriate visa for entry to the countries being visited.
Australians are eligible for Japan’s visa exemption scheme for short-stay tourism and business travel.
You don’t need a visa if you’re visiting for less than 90 days.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/ for up-to-date information in terms of entry requirements
It is the traveller’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. Visa conditions are subject to change at short notice, so it is the responsibility of the traveller to consult with the relevant consulates to ensure they have the appropriate visa for entry to the countries being visited.
Australians are eligible for Japan’s visa exemption scheme for short-stay tourism and business travel.
You don’t need a visa if you’re visiting for less than 90 days.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/ for up-to-date information in terms of entry requirements.
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 priced at the same price as adults.
Japanese coach companies do not provide baby seats, we require customers to bring their own. We cannot guarantee the compatibility of these seats with the coach’s seating arrangements.
We generally recommend that children be over 2 years old, as some itineraries may involve 2-3 hours or even longer of coach travel at a time, which can be challenging for younger children
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 luggage
How to Extend Your Stay
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
– $315 per room, per night based on double/twin room share
Post Tour Accommodation
– $315 per room, per night based on double/twin room share
Please select the number of extra nights required in the ‘Additional Nights Accommodation’ field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Dates & Prices
Real Travelers Reviews
Wide variety of well priced Tours of Asia. I found the Tours available to choose
Our holiday was an amazing experience we enjoyed the scheduled tours all were very interesting.
We were very happy and had no problem at all when booking
This is the 2nd time that I have booked with Asia Vacation
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