Print This Page

Classic Japan

11 Day Japan Tour from Tokyo to Osaka | Operated by Trafalgar

  • 11 Days

  • 1 Country

    Japan
  • 6 Cities

    Tokyo, Mt Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Osaka
  • 16 Meals

    10 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner, 3 Lunchs, 1 Be My Guest, 1 Farewell Dinner
  • Pace: Active

    Faster paces with mix of 1–2-night stays in each location. Typically features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills and uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Konnichiwa Tokyo

Tokyo’s futuristic cityscape launches your journey through Japan’s modern centers and ancient capitals. On arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport, you’ll be transferred by airport shuttle to your hotel. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome drink with appetizers.

Hotel: New Otani Garden Tower Tokyo
Notes
Day 2: Explore Vibrant Tokyo

Rub shoulders with the locals this morning as you Dive Into Culture and wander through Ameyoko Street Market, once a black market selling American goods after World War II. Continue to the old-time entertainment center of Asakusa to visit the Sensoji Buddhist Temple, which has been rebuilt countless times since its founding in 628, making it Tokyo’s oldest temple site. Take a stroll down Nakamise shopping street with some free time for lunch, then join a Local Specialist and learn the mesmerizing rhythmic art of Taiko drumming, one of Japan’s most popular cultural icons.

Board a cruise along the Sumida River to admire Tokyo’s modern skyline, the traditional neighborhoods of old Edo and beautiful Hamarikyu Garden. Later, return to your hotel for time at leisure and dinner at a Sumo-themed izakaya restaurant.

Hotel: New Otani Garden Tower Tokyo
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Dive Into Culture: Ameyoko Street Market Visit Visit Ameyoko Street Market, once a black market selling American goods after World War II.
Iconic Experience: Tokyo City Tour Visit Tokyo's renowned landmarks and gain insight into how this modern city preserves its ancient roots. 
Iconic Experience: Taiko Drumming Lesson LS Spend some time learning the art of Taiko Drumming with your Local Specialist. 
Iconic Experience: Sumida River Cruise Bask in the stunning skyline of Tokyo as you embark on your Sumida River Cruise.
Notes
Day 3: Majestic Mt. Fuji and Owakudani The towering slopes of snow-capped Mt. Fuji loom in the distance as we journey from Tokyo to this celebrated UNESCO-listed site. Admire spectacular views of the surrounding countryside from its 5th station, a magnificent vantage point at 2,300 meters (weather permitting). After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll continue to Owakudani to see the volcanic activity. Consider sampling the local black eggs boiled in geysers, then head back to the hotel for an evening at leisure.
Hotel: New Otani Garden Tower Tokyo
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Iconic Experience: Mt. Fuji 5th Station Visit Admire the stunning countryside at Mt. Fuji 5th Station.
Notes
Day 4: Continue to Kyoto

We leave Tokyo, traveling by high-speed bullet train to Kyoto, another former capital of Japan and the center of Japanese culture for centuries. On arrival, we’ll embark on a temple tour at the Manpukuji temple, located in Uji City, the southern part of Kyoto. Here you will be guided by headmaster of Manpukuji temple and learn the architectures and treasure houses from the Buddhist perspective. Followed by a late lunch with a Fucha meal, Fucha cuisine is made from locally produced tea and vegetables, before heading to Kyoto for some free time in the evening.

Hotel: The Hotel Higashiyama
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Iconic Experience: Bullet Train To Kyoto Jump aboard the high-speed Bullet Train towards the cultural hub of Kyoto.
Iconic Experience: Manpukuji temple Embark on a temple tour at the Manpukuji temple, located in Uji City, the southern part of Kyoto. Here you will be guided by head master of Manpukuji temple and learn about the architectures and treasure houses from the Buddhist perspective.
Notes
Day 5: Discover Enchanting Kyoto

After a late start this morning, we’ll visit one of Kyoto’s highlights – the historic and scenic district of Arashiyama, renowned for its cherry blossom trees which bloom in the springtime and its beautiful landscapes that change dramatically from season to season. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the towering Bamboo groves and see its iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Connect with nature in the Zen gardens of Tenryuji Temple, before heading to the UNESCO-listed Kinkakuji Temple, whose glittering golden pavilion is widely regarded as the symbol of Kyoto. Return to Kyoto for some free time at Nishiki market, a traditional food market known by locals as “Kyoto’s Pantry”. Return to your hotel or consider joining an optional Japanese tea ceremony experience.

Hotel: The Hotel Higashiyama
Included Meals: Breakfast
Iconic Experience: Arashiyama District Tour Take a walk through the beautiful landscapes of the Arashiyama District.
Notes
Day 6: Admire Ancient Nara

Start the day off with a visit to Sumiyama Village and discover the stunning Kiyomizu Pottery which originated about 500 years ago in central Kyoto. Learn about the work of the craftsmen and about how they had to move out of the city and into a more rural area due to concerns from the local citizens about air pollution. Next 'Connect With Locals' over a 'Be My Guest' lunch with a local farmer at his home. Gain insights into the life of his family while sampling fresh tea and indulging in a delicious home-made meal, then visit his tea plantation.

This afternoon delve into the ancient history of Nara, the first permanent capital city of Japan. Here you’ll visit the landmark Todaiji Temple, one of the powerful Seven Great Temples and home to one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha. Take a stroll around Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming tame deer before returning to Kyoto for an evening at leisure.

Hotel: The Hotel Higashiyama
Included Meals: Breakfast, Be My Guest
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®: Kyoto Kiyomizu Pottery Workshop Visit Help support the work of the Kiyomizu pottery craftsmen with your visit to their workshop.
Be My Guest: Dine with a local Farmer's Family in Nara Lunch with a local farmer's family who own a traditional tea plantation in the Nara area.
Iconic Experience: Nara Orientation Discover the tame deer as you explore Nara Park.
Notes
Day 7: Bullet Train to Hiroshima

This morning, we board a high-speed bullet train to Hiroshima, a lively city that celebrates peace in the shadow of the previous century’s devastation. Our first stop is to a local restaurant where we’ll join our Local Specialist for an Okonomiyaki making experience. Mix your ingredients to make your own savory pancake and cook it on a hot plate before enjoying your creation for lunch. This afternoon, take the ferry to Miyajima Island to visit the famous UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine and elaborate torii gate rising majestically out of the sea. Learn how to make Momiji Manjyu, one of the local specialties, shaping your steamed bun in the shape of a maple leaf and filling it with sweet red bean paste. You’ll have an opportunity to sample your work before returning to Hiroshima by ferry.

Hotel: Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Iconic Experience: Okonomiyaki Making Experience LS Learn the art of Okonomiyaki making and savor your own creations for lunch.
Iconic Experience: Miyajima Island Orientation Discover the majestic Itsukushima Shrine and learn a new skill when you join a Local Specialist to practice making Momiji Manjyu. 
Notes
Day 8: Experience Hiroshima This morning, we head to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum and see the UNESCO-listed Peace Memorial, the only structure left standing when the first atomic bomb exploded in 1945. Take a moment to contemplate its symbolic expression of hope for world peace. Spend the afternoon at leisure or consider joining an Optional Experience.
Hotel: Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima
Included Meals: Breakfast
Iconic Experience: Visit Peace Memorial Museum and Park Discover the rich history when you visit the Peace Memorial Museum and Park. 
Notes
Day 9: Onwards to Osaka

Today take the high-speed bullet train to Osaka. On arrival embark on an orientation drive of the central city and your first glimpse of sights including the incredible Umeda Sky Building before checking in to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

Hotel: Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka
Included Meals: Breakfast
Iconic Experience: Osaka Orientation Drive Embark on an orientation drive through the city of Osaka.
Notes
Day 10: See the Sights of Osaka

Gain a different perspective of Osaka’s landmark city sights, starting your day with a cruise on the ‘aqua-bus’ along Okawa River. Sail past the Japan Mint, City Hall, Nakanoshima and Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.

Visit the downtown district of Shinsekai to see the Tsutenkaku Tower, then continue to the Dotonbori Street area for some time at leisure. Delve into the star-crossed love story of Ohatsu and Tokubei during your visit to the Tusyunoten Shrine in Umeda, associated with the Edo-period play ‘The Love Suicides of Sonezaki, which tells of the tragic double suicide that took place at the shrine in 1703. To this day, visitors write their prayers for success in love on special wooden plaques called ema, many of which bear the image of Ohatsu and Tokubei. Admire the panoramic views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory – an open-air viewing platform that straddles the two towers of the Umeda Sky Building. Later join your fellow guests and Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant.

Hotel: Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Iconic Experience: Okawa River Cruise Discover Osaka's beautiful city landmarks as you embark on your Okawa River Cruise. 
Iconic Experience: Shinsekai District Orientation See the wonderful Tsutenkaku Tower, the Tusyunoten Shrine which holds the love story of Ohatsu and Tokubei, and then take the time to bask in the spectacuar views as you visit the Floating Garden Observatory.
Notes
Day 11: Sayonara Osaka Your journey revealing Japan's past and present is at its end, take a transfer by airport shuttle service to Kansai International Airport or Osaka Itami Airport for your onward flight.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Notes
This itinerary is for reference only. Upon booking with GET, guests will receive tour documents which will list all confirmed hotels and itineraries based upon the guest's departure date.

Price Includes

What's Included
  • - An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • - Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • - All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • - All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • - Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • - Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • - Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • - Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • - Optional Experiences and free time
  • - On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
Dining Summary
  • - 10 Breakfasts (B)
  • - 1 Dinner (D)
  • - 3 Lunchs (L)
  • - 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
  • - 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
Dive Into Culture
  • Visit Ameyoko Street Market, once a black market selling American goods after World War II.
Iconic Experience
  • Visit Tokyo's renowned landmarks and gain insight into how this modern city preserves its ancient roots. 
  • Spend some time learning the art of Taiko Drumming with your Local Specialist. 
  • Bask in the stunning skyline of Tokyo as you embark on your Sumida River Cruise.
  • Admire the stunning countryside at Mt. Fuji 5th Station.
  • Jump aboard the high-speed Bullet Train towards the cultural hub of Kyoto.
  • Embark on a temple tour at the Manpukuji temple, located in Uji City, the southern part of Kyoto. Here you will be guided by head master of Manpukuji temple and learn about the architectures and treasure houses from the Buddhist perspective.
  • Take a walk through the beautiful landscapes of the Arashiyama District.
  • Discover the tame deer as you explore Nara Park.
  • Learn the art of Okonomiyaki making and savor your own creations for lunch.
  • Discover the majestic Itsukushima Shrine and learn a new skill when you join a Local Specialist to practice making Momiji Manjyu. 
  • Discover the rich history when you visit the Peace Memorial Museum and Park. 
  • Embark on an orientation drive through the city of Osaka.
  • Discover Osaka's beautiful city landmarks as you embark on your Okawa River Cruise. 
  • See the wonderful Tsutenkaku Tower, the Tusyunoten Shrine which holds the love story of Ohatsu and Tokubei, and then take the time to bask in the spectacuar views as you visit the Floating Garden Observatory.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
  • Help support the work of the Kiyomizu pottery craftsmen with your visit to their workshop.
Be My Guest
  • Lunch with a local farmer's family who own a traditional tea plantation in the Nara area.

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.

Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience (Available on Day 5)

Experience the ambience of a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony with a professional Tea Master who will have spent many years leaning his craft which is often presented in a ceremony influenced by Zen Buddhism. Learn about the history and culture of tea making in Japan and observe how the powdered green tea (matcha) is prepared by adding boiling water and mixing it with a bamboo whisk. There will also be an explanation on the Japanese way of making and drinking tea. Take the opportunity to try some Japanese sweets and afterwards, having observed the skill involved in making the tea, have a go at making your own! The price shown is in Japanese Yen.

Adult Price: ¥4500 Shukei-en Garden and Orizuru Tower (Available on Day 8)

Visit Shukei-en garden; an Edo style historic Japanese Garden located in the center of Hiroshima. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take a stroll around the gardens which are beautifully laid out with paths that meander around a lake with bridges and small islands. Later, visit Orizuru Tower, named after the folded paper crane (bird) it is a symbol of peace. Ascend to the rooftop observation deck for panoramic views of Hiroshima City and on a clear day, see as far as Miyajima Island. During your visit learn about the changes of Hiroshima townscape before and after the bombing and also how to make a traditional origami crane. The price shown is in Japanese Yen.

Adult Price: ¥3500