Including return international flights, all accommodation, delicious breakfast daily, bullet train travel from Osaka to Kyoto, dedicated air-conditioned transportation throughout, English-speaking tour guides and more.
Take in the very best of Japan’s extraordinary cities, heritage sites, imposing castles and pristine countryside on a 16 day Discover Japan tour.
Japan is a spectacular destination for all kinds of travellers; it is rich in history, tradition and beauty. You arrive into Osaka and venture out on a day trip to Nara to see Todaiji Temple and the furry four-legged residents of Nara Park. Admire the architecture of Osaka Castle and take a bite out of local cuisine with a wander through Dotonbori. Travel by high-speed bullet train to Kyoto (this journey only takes 15 minutes!) and see the sights around this former capital city, including the gold-laden Kinkaku-ji Temple, Nijo Castle and the magical Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama. Another treat while in Kyoto is the chance to watch a traditional kimono show!
Follow in the footsteps of samurai by exploring the Nagamachi Buke Yashiki district in Kanazawa, and get a taste for local cuisine at Omicho Market. Wander around the traditional village of Shirakawa-go, discover the old merchant district of Takayama, see the striking Zenkōji Temple while in Nagano, and delve into feudal history with a visit to Matsumoto Castle.
You’ll never forget the moment you catch your first sighting of Mt Fuji, and the views offered of the Fuji Five Lakes area from Mt Fuji Fifth Station are better than any photo could ever do justice to. Take to the water of Lake Ashi to see the mountain from a different perspective, and fill your smartphone camera roll with even more photos upon a visit to Gotemba Peace Park and the sacred springs of Oshino Hakkai. Finally, set your sights on the bright lights, frantic street crossings and blend of old and new of Tokyo. Your time in the Japanese capital city is all your own, no matter if you devote it to seeing shrines, tracking down top street eats, or ticking off some of Japanese culture’s most quirky encounters.
Travellers eager to see more of Japan can extend their trip to an 18 day itinerary that includes time in Himeji and Hiroshima.
As seen on Webjet’s A Taste of Travel:
Day 1: Australia – 
– Osaka
Make your way to the airport and check in for your overnight flight to Osaka in Japan.
Please note that some flights may depart 1 day later.
Day 2: Osaka
Your flight touches down at Osaka’s Kansai Airport (KIX) and a transfer awaits your arrival to assist with your escort to the hotel. The tour representative will be waiting at the arrival lobby exit gate. Please do not move away from the gate if you cannot immediately find the tour representative. Upon your transfer to the hotel and check in, you have the remainder of the day as time to relax and unwind.
Day 3: Osaka – Nara – Osaka (B, D)
Set out on the first day trip of the tour as you travel from Osaka to Nara. The latter is home to Todaiji Temple, one of the most famous temples in Japan. Have your gaze immediately drawn to the massive 15-metre-tall bronze statues of Buddha (Daibutsu), and also take note of the Nandaimon Gate. The figures perched on top of the gate represent the Nio Guardian Kings. The walk back from the temple takes you through Nara Park, the home of a 1200-strong herd of free-roaming deer considered sacred by locals. These curious four-legged creatures have become a symbol of the city and frequently approach visitors in the hopes of being fed some of the deer crackers sold throughout the park.
Back in Osaka, the group heads to the city’s namesake castle. This feudal-style landmark was built in 1583 and continues to be a brilliant example of the era’s architecture and design. From the castle, the next stop is Dōtonbori. This precinct is one of the city’s epicentres for food and entertainment, and the group enjoys a dinner in the area tonight.
Day 4: Osaka –
– Kyoto (B)
Say your goodbyes to Osaka as you board a bullet train for the break-neck 15-minute journey to Kyoto. Your time in Kyoto starts by seeing Kinkaku-ji, the UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as Golden Pavilion. The name of this landmark may hint to its biggest draw: thin layers of pure gold that cover two of its floors. Those with a nose for design will also appreciate the mix of Shinden-zukuri, Samurai and Zen styles. Continue to the Nishijin Textile Centre and watch a traditional kimono show.
Day 5: Kyoto (B)
You have the day as free time to uncover the charms of Kyoto however you please. There are more than 1600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines and a number of palaces and gardens sprinkled throughout the city, so there is no shortage of things to see and do. You can also head into the city’s old district and keep your eyes peeled for elusive geisha darting around the quiet backstreets.
Day 6: Kyoto – Kanazawa (B)
A morning outing takes you to Kyoto’s Nijo Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the traditional Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa Shogunate. From the castle, head into the Arashiyama district to check off visits to Togetsukyo Bridge and the serene Bamboo Grove. Both are among Kyoto’s most visited tourist sights. The group departs for Kanazawa afterwards and arrives in the afternoon. Have free time to begin exploring or relax at the hotel.
Day 7: Kanazawa (B)
Venture into the Higashi Chayagai district to take in its famous teahouses and traditional Japanese architecture. Seek out the gorgeous Kenroku-en Garden and admire the meticulous landscaping of the feudal lord-style grounds. It is then onto the Nagamachi Buke Yashiki district. This historic area was a samurai district and is found at the base of Kanazawa Castle. Some of the structures and sights that remain include former samurai residences, narrow laneways, water canals and other buildings. The final stop of the day is Omicho Market where you can sink your teeth into local Kanazawa cuisine.
Day 8: Kanazawa (B)
Enjoy today as free time to continue discovering Kanazawa at your own pace. There are great museums throughout the city, plus a number of well-preserved examples of Edo architecture.
Day 9: Kanazawa – Shirakawa Go – Takayama ((B)
The group departs Kanazawa for Takayama after breakfast. This journey is broken up with a pitstop in Shirakawa-go, a village in the Gifu Prefecture. One of the main draws is the traditional village that showcases the gassho-zukuri style of architecture. Continue to Takayama afterwards.
Day 10: Takayama – Nagano (B)
Take in some of Takayama’s best sights and landmarks this morning. Start at the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum that displays more than 30 examples of traditional regional residences. Learn about the Takayama Festival with a visit to Matsuri-no-mori Museum, and then head to the trio of streets that make up Sanmachi Suji, the city’s historic district. This area was once bustling with merchants and is today recognisable for its old-world wooden architecture and atmosphere. Explore the neighbouring sake breweries, boutiques and museums while here. The group then sets out for Nagano and arrives later in the day.
Day 11: Nagano – Matsumoto (B)
Learn about the ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai on a morning visit to the namesake museum (The Sumida Hokusai Museum) and uncover more about his most famous works, including The Great Wave Off Kanagawa and Red Fuji. Admire the significance of the Buddhist Zenko-ji Temple, an important pilgrimage site that was built in the 7th century. Make the drive from Nagano to Matsumoto and immediately set your sights on taking in Matsumoto Castle upon arrival in the city. This grand pile is considered one of the top three feudal castles in Japan and is perhaps the city’s most recognisable landmark. There is also time to stroll through Nakamachi, the former merchant district, for local handicrafts, knick-knacks and souvenirs. The area is also home to good restaurants.
Day 12: Matsumoto – Mt Fuji (B, D)
The snow-capped peak of Mt Fuji beckons today. Enroute there is a chance to stop in Oshino Hakkai. Also called the Springs of Mt Fuji, this site is actually eight mountain water-fed ponds – the water is so clear it is considered sacred by locals. The group moves to Mt Fuji Fifth Station; a point located 2300 metres above sea level that commands breathtaking views over the Fuji Five Lakes landscape below. Head back down to ground level and enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelling companions. Although there are a few days still left of your tour, tonight marks the final evening of your guided experience before travelling to Tokyo tomorrow.
Day 13: Mt Fuji – Tokyo (B)
Sneak in a few more photos of Mt Fuji with a visit to Gotemba Peace Park and then a scenic cruise on the waters of Lake Ashi. You’ll also get to spend some time in the Hakone region, which makes up part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is particularly famous for its hot springs. You travel to Tokyo afterwards and arrive in the neon-lit Japanese capital city ready to experience all it has to offer.
Day 14: Tokyo (B)
There is so much to see and do in Tokyo that it may be overwhelming knowing where to possibly start. This is a city that promises its visitors the ultimate blend of the traditional and the contemporary. Get your bearings by taking in the sweeping city panorama from the observation decks at Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower, or wander through the garden at Meiji Jingu. Uncover the heritage of the Asakusa neighbourhood and the sacred temple of Senso-ji, or get caught up in the scramble at Shibuya Crossing.
Day 15: Tokyo – – Australia (B)
You have free time until a transfer picks you up when required and takes you to the airport for you to begin the return journey to Australia.
Day 16: Australia
Arrive home today.
Day 1: Australia –– Osaka
Make your way to the airport and check in for your overnight flight to Osaka in Japan.
Please note that some flights may depart 1 day later.
Day 2: Osaka
Your flight touches down at Osaka’s Kansai Airport (KIX) and a transfer awaits your arrival to assist with your escort to the hotel. The tour representative will be waiting at the arrival lobby exit gate. Please do not move away from the gate if you cannot immediately find the tour representative. Upon your transfer to the hotel and check in, you have the remainder of the day as time to relax and unwind.
Day 3: Osaka – Himeji – Hiroshima (B)
The first leg of today’s itinerary takes you to Himeji, located about a one-hour drive away from Osaka. This city in the Hyogo Prefecture is known for the magnificent Himeji Castle and the impeccably-maintained grounds. The UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed castle is nicknamed ‘White Heron Castle’ thanks to its elegant white exterior. Have time to appreciate the well-preserved castle and gardens before continuing to Hiroshima for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Hiroshima – Osaka (B)
Tour one of Japan’s most infamous cities today with time in Hiroshima. The city has the unfortunate honour of being known for its role in the World War II conflict; the location of the atomic bomb drop. Head to the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Museum to pay respects to the victims of the bomb and learn more about the impact this chapter in history had on the city and its people. From the park and museum, the group moves to Miyajima Island – regarded as one of the most scenic spots in Japan. It is also the location of the Itsukushima Shrine, nestled within the forest surrounds of Mount Misen. Begin the return journey back to Osaka in the afternoon, making a stop in Kurashiki enroute.
Day 5: Osaka – Nara – Osaka (B, D)
Set out on the first day trip of the tour as you travel from Osaka to Nara. The latter is home to Todaiji Temple, one of the most famous temples in Japan. Have your gaze immediately drawn to the massive 15-metre-tall bronze statues of Buddha (Daibutsu), and also take note of the Nandaimon Gate. The figures perched on top of the gate represent the Nio Guardian Kings. The walk back from the temple takes you through Nara Park, the home of a 1200-strong herd of free-roaming deer considered sacred by locals. These curious four-legged creatures have become a symbol of the city and frequently approach visitors in the hopes of being fed some of the deer crackers sold throughout the park.
Back in Osaka, the group heads to the city’s namesake castle. This feudal-style landmark was built in 1583 and continues to be a brilliant example of the era’s architecture and design. From the castle, the next stop is Dōtonbori. This precinct is one of the city’s epicentres for food and entertainment, and the group enjoys a dinner in the area tonight.
Day 6: Osaka – Kyoto (B)
Say your goodbyes to Osaka as you board a bullet train for the break-neck 15-minute journey to Kyoto. Your time in Kyoto starts by seeing Kinkaku-ji, the UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as Golden Pavilion. The name of this landmark may hint to its biggest draw: thin layers of pure gold that cover two of its floors. Those with a nose for design will also appreciate the mix of Shinden-zukuri, Samurai and Zen styles. Continue to the Nishijin Textile Centre and watch a traditional kimono show.
Day 7: Kyoto (B)
You have the day as free time to uncover the charms of Kyoto however you please. There are more than 1600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines and a number of palaces and gardens sprinkled throughout the city, so there is no shortage of things to see and do. You can also head into the city’s old district and keep your eyes peeled for elusive geisha darting around the quiet backstreets.
Day 8: Kyoto – Kanazawa (B)
A morning outing takes you to Kyoto’s Nijo Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the traditional Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa Shogunate. From the castle, head into the Arashiyama district to check off visits to Togetsukyo Bridge and the serene Bamboo Grove. Both are among Kyoto’s most visited tourist sights. The group departs for Kanazawa afterwards and arrives in the afternoon. Have free time to begin exploring or relax at the hotel.
Day 9: Kanazawa (B)
Venture into the Higashi Chayagai district to take in its famous teahouses and traditional Japanese architecture. Seek out the gorgeous Kenroku-en Garden and admire the meticulous landscaping of the feudal lord-style grounds. It is then onto the Nagamachi Buke Yashiki district. This historic area was a samurai district and is found at the base of Kanazawa Castle. Some of the structures and sights that remain include former samurai residences, narrow laneways, water canals and other buildings. The final stop of the day is Omicho Market where you can sink your teeth into local Kanazawa cuisine.
Day 10: Kanazawa (B)
Enjoy today as free time to continue discovering Kanazawa at your own pace. There are great museums throughout the city, plus a number of well-preserved examples of Edo architecture.
Day 11: Kanazawa – Shirakawa Go – Takayama (B)
The group departs Kanazawa for Takayama after breakfast. This journey is broken up with a pitstop in Shirakawa-go, a village in the Gifu Prefecture. One of the main draws is the traditional village that showcases the gassho-zukuri style of architecture. Continue to Takayama afterwards.
Day 12: Takayama – Nagano (B)
Take in some of Takayama’s best sights and landmarks this morning. Start at the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum that displays more than 30 examples of traditional regional residences. Learn about the Takayama Festival with a visit to Matsuri-no-mori Museum, and then head to the trio of streets that make up Sanmachi Suji, the city’s historic district. This area was once bustling with merchants and is today recognisable for its old-world wooden architecture and atmosphere. Explore the neighbouring sake breweries, boutiques and museums while here. The group then sets out for Nagano and arrives later in the day.
Day 13: Nagano – Matsumoto (B)
Learn about the ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai on a morning visit to the namesake museum (The Sumida Hokusai Museum) and uncover more about his most famous works, including The Great Wave Off Kanagawa and Red Fuji. Admire the significance of the Buddhist Zenko-ji Temple, an important pilgrimage site that was built in the 7th century. Make the drive from Nagano to Matsumoto and immediately set your sights on taking in Matsumoto Castle upon arrival in the city. This grand pile is considered one of the top three feudal castles in Japan and is perhaps the city’s most recognisable landmark. There is also time to stroll through Nakamachi, the former merchant district, for local handicrafts, knick-knacks and souvenirs. The area is also home to good restaurants.
Day 14: Matsumoto – Mt Fuji (B, D)
The snow-capped peak of Mt Fuji beckons today. Enroute there is a chance to stop in Oshino Hakkai. Also called the Springs of Mt Fuji, this site is actually eight mountain water-fed ponds – the water is so clear it is considered sacred by locals. The group moves to Mt Fuji Fifth Station; a point located 2300 metres above sea level that commands breathtaking views over the Fuji Five Lakes landscape below. Head back down to ground level and enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelling companions. Although there are a few days still left of your tour, tonight marks the final evening of your guided experience before travelling to Tokyo tomorrow.
Day 15: Mt Fuji – Tokyo (B)
Sneak in a few more photos of Mt Fuji with a visit to Gotemba Peace Park and then a scenic cruise on the waters of Lake Ashi. You’ll also get to spend some time in the Hakone region, which makes up part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is particularly famous for its hot springs. You travel to Tokyo afterwards and arrive in the neon-lit Japanese capital city ready to experience all it has to offer.
Day 16: Tokyo (B)
There is so much to see and do in Tokyo that it may be overwhelming knowing where to possibly start. This is a city that promises its visitors the ultimate blend of the traditional and the contemporary. Get your bearings by taking in the sweeping city panorama from the observation decks at Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower, or wander through the garden at Meiji Jingu. Uncover the heritage of the Asakusa neighbourhood and the sacred temple of Senso-ji, or get caught up in the scramble at Shibuya Crossing.
Day 17: Tokyo – – Australia (B)
You have free time until a transfer picks you up when required and takes you to the airport for you to begin the return journey to Australia.
Day 18: Australia
Arrive home today.
Highlights:
How to book:
Payment Information:
Excludes: Travel insurance, Visas, Personal expenses, Anything not mentioned or “optional” in the itinerary.
Single Supplement:
Payable direct to our Travel Partner at the time of booking.
Group Size: 10 – 45 people
Children: Minimum age 2 years. Same price as adults.
Triple Share: Not available
Accommodation:
Osaka: Hotel Plaza Osaka or similar
Kyoto: Kyoto Plaza Hotel or similar
Kanazawa: Hotel Route-Inn Kanazawa Ekimae or similar
Takayama: Washington Hotel Plaza Takayama or similar
Matsumoto: Dormy Inn Matsumoto or similar
Mt Fuji: Hotel Alexander Yamanakako or similar
Tokyo: Apa Hotel Asakusa or similar
Hiroshima Extension:
Osaka: Izumisano Centre Hotel or similar
Horishoma: Hotel New Hiroden or similar
Please note: Unlike western hotels, Japanese rooms can be small in size, only offer twin bedding or have limited in-room facilities like tea & coffee or satellite TV.
Tour Only: Not available
Travel Insurance: Help cover yourself for the unexpected with Webjet Travel Insurance, we highly recommend it. Click here for a quote.
Visas: Visas are not included. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they meet the visa requirements for the country they are visiting. Webjet Exclusives is unable to provide visa advice.
For Visa assistance, please visit Webjet’s Travel Visa Service page
$100 spending money offer valid for any Webjet Exclusives tour or resort booking made at www.exclusives.webjet.com.au. Eligible bookings will receive a unique account application link from Webjet Exclusives via email within 72 hours of making a booking. Any HSBC Everyday Global Account applications not made via this link or if the booking is cancelled, the offer will not be fulfilled/paid. One (1) offer will be paid per booking. The offer is a 100 AUD deposit into the newly opened HSBC Everyday Global Accounts and the activated Visa Debit card. The offer may take up to 6 weeks to be fulfilled/paid. Webjet Exclusives reserves the right to withdraw this promotion at any time. The email address entered at the time of booking will be used as the primary contact. Webjet Exclusives’ standard booking terms and conditions apply. For more information go to www.hsbc.com.au/accounts/offers/everyday-global/webjet/
2020:
4 March – Sold Out
11 March
18 March*^
25 March*^ – Sold Out
30 March*^
1 April*^
4 April*^ – Sold Out
6 April*^
8 April*^
13 April*^ – Sold Out
15 April*^ – Sold Out
13 May
20 May – Sold Out
3 June
10 June
24 June*
19 August
2 September
9 September – Sold Out
14 October
28 October* #
4 November*#
11 November* #
18 November
*A $450 per person surcharge applies
Hiroshima Extension:
2 March – Sold Out
9 March
16 March*^
23 March*^ – Sold Out
28 March*^
30 March*^ – Sold Out
2 April*^
4 April*^
6 April*^ – Sold Out
11 April*^ – Sold Out
13 April*^ – Sold Out
11 May
18 May – Sold Out
1 June
8 June
22 June*
17 August
31 August
7 September
12 October
26 October*#
2 November*#
9 November* #
16 November
*A $500 per person surcharge applies
^Cherry Blossom season for 2020 is forecast for late March and April. Please note: Cherry Blossom is subject to climate conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
#Koyo/Maple Season Dates – Best time to view Koyo season. Please note: Koyo season is seasonal and subject to climate conditions. These are historically the best times to view change in colours, but we can’t guarantee autumn foliage.
Bookings not accepted when within 45 days of departure
Availability on departure dates listed in Fine Print is subject to change. True availability is shown on the availability calendar after clicking on the BOOK NOW button
Airline Information:
Flights Conditions:
Schedule Changes:
Flight Variations:
If you wish to modify the promotional airfare included in your Webjet Exclusives package, the following Flight Variations can be requested:
A $250 per person “breakaway” charge will apply per person plus any applicable fare and tax difference.
In order to obtain a quote for your requested variations, you must purchase your vouchers first and submit your request via the online booking form. On this form will be a section highlighted “Flight Quote Request”. You must complete the mandatory information in this section to be provided with an accurate quote.
PLEASE NOTE: No flight requests/quotes/upgrades will be actioned until your final payment has been made. After this, you will be contacted in relation to your request. Payment of the breakaway fee and any applicable fare and tax difference must be paid at time of quotation in order to confirm your flights.
If choosing to deviate from the travel itinerary, please note that airport transfers will NOT be included and you must arrange any additional accommodation and transfers at your own expense. Webjet Exclusives and/or our travel partners cannot assist in these additional arrangements.
Flights are booked in departure date order and we endeavour to send you this information 30 days before departure, if not sooner.
Once flights have been confirmed and ticketed, any voluntary changes made thereafter will incur a change fee plus any fare and tax difference.
I thoroughly enjoyed this well organised and chaperoned tour.
Bernita G
Very happy with the tour. We saw and did so much and yet had free time to explore by ourselves or newly made friends. Our guide Maxim was Amazing! He was so knowledgeable about Japan, it's history, it's geography, it's people. Combined with an unflappable nature, great sense of humour and boundless patience he made our trip really memorable. Hotels were fantastic and bus drivers were skilled and accommodating. Only negative was the late check in time on arrival in Japan-exhausting !!
Lesley S
A fabulous trip. Value for money.
Sandra H
