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All Self-guided tours
All Self-guided tours
The sacred island of Miyajima and its famous torii with feet in water, worth a visit off Hiroshima in Japan

The sacred island of Miyajima and its famous torii with feet in water, worth a visit off Hiroshima in Japan

©Sean Pavone/123RF

Senso-ji temple in Asakusa with Tokyo Sky Tree behind, a must-see on your first days to visit Tokyo
Indulge yourself with a move upmarket in an equivalent 4 * hotel (optional)
Yayoi Kusama's yellow pumpkin, symbol of Naoshima, the artistic island in Japan Inland Sea
River in Arashiyama during fall : famous touristic site to visit in Kyoto
The sacred island of Miyajima and its famous torii with feet in water, worth a visit off Hiroshima in Japan

The sacred island of Miyajima and its famous torii with feet in water, worth a visit off Hiroshima in Japan

©Sean Pavone/123RF

Senso-ji temple in Asakusa with Tokyo Sky Tree behind, a must-see on your first days to visit Tokyo

Asakusa: the Senso-ji temple and the Tokyo Sky Tree: a fascinating Tokyo district that's a must-see

chan Richie/123RF

Indulge yourself with a move upmarket in an equivalent 4 * hotel (optional)

Indulge yourself with a move upmarket in an equivalent 4 * hotel (optional)

©The Gate

Yayoi Kusama's yellow pumpkin, symbol of Naoshima, the artistic island in Japan Inland Sea

Yayoi Kusama's yellow pumpkin, symbol of Naoshima, the artistic island in Japan's Inland Sea

©Jordy Meow

River in Arashiyama during fall : famous touristic site to visit in Kyoto

River in Arashiyama during fall : famous touristic site to visit in Kyoto

©Tawatchai Prakobkit/123RF

The city of Fukuoka in Japan is the largest metropolis on the island of Kyushu. It is a gateway to Asia.

The city of Fukuoka in Japan is the largest metropolis on the island of Kyushu. It is a gateway to Asia.

©Wasin Pummarin/123RF

Shabu-shabu hot pot - traditional Japanese cuisine

Traditional Japanese fondue shabu-shabu

©wnaoki/123RF

Women in kimono in Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto

Women in traditional Japanese kimonos walking at Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, Japan

patryk Kośmider/123RF

Enjoy comfortable 3 * hotels, well located, with impeccable Japanese service

Enjoy comfortable 3 * hotels, well located, with impeccable Japanese service

©Tsugu 京都三条 Kyoto

Towns and Islands of Japan

  • 13 days
  • Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Okayama, Miyajima Island, Fukuoka

Take a first trip to Japan to visit its cities - Tokyo and Kyoto - and discover the nature located on its islands : Naoshima the artistic one, Miyajima the sacred one or Kyushu the volcanic one.

This privately organised tour includes accommodation, of which 2 nights in a ryôkan, local transport, a guided night tour and a WiFi pass.

A great way to travel from city to island with a free mind!

13-day itinerary

  • Departure city/Airport : Tokyo (Narita : NRT or Haneda : HND)
  • Tokyo (4 nights)
  • Hakone - Mount Fuji (1 night)
  • Kyoto (3 nights)
  • Okayama (2 nights)
  • Miyajima Island and Hiroshima (1 night)
  • Fukuoka - Kyushu Island (1 night)
  • Return city/Airport : Fukuoka (Fukuoka International Airport : FUK)

Please find below the itinerary details.

Tour length : 12 nights / 13 days (+ 1 day at the beginning if you leave from Europe)

PLEASE NOTE: The departure and end dates shown on this page only apply to your stay in Japan. You must therefore leave Europe the day before the first day of your tour. The date of your return flight and that of your return to Europe are identical due to the time difference.

Example : 

  • Departure from Europe : January 1st
  • Arrival in Tokyo (= the date to be selected in the calendar when booking) : January 2nd
  • Return flight from Fukuoka International Airport FUK / Return to Europe : January 14th

Please note that flights are not included in the price of your tour.

This tour information was last updated on May 2, 2024.


Like this tour but you are also drawn to the Japanese Alps? Instead, we recommend our tour Highlights of Japan.


Why this trip to Japan ?

  1. Welcomed at the airport by our team, you will be taken to your hotel in Tokyo by shuttle bus
  2. Head to the edge of Mount Fuji for an unforgettable dinner and overnight stay in a ryokan
  3. Travel by Shinkansen to Kyoto : a guided tour of the traditional geisha quarter awaits you
  4. The ancient city of Okayama and the artists' island of Naoshima will take your breath away
  5. Reach Hiroshima and the island of Miyajima where you will spend a second night in a ryokan
  6. Finish with Fukuoka, the capital of Kyushu Island and continue with an optional tour extension
  7. Take advantage of your transport passes : Kansai Hiroshima Pass (5 days), Hakone Free Pass (2 days)...
  8. Enjoy unlimited internet access thanks to your pocket Wi-Fi
  9. If needed, contact our bilingual Japanese/English-speaking assistance team available 7/7
  10. A number of guided days or other optional activities are available
  11. Benefit from the expertise of Japan Experience, European leading travel agency in Japan.

Your trip in detail

Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Wake up in Tokyo 東京

    Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita NRT or Haneda HND).
    Welcome to Japan! Yokoso 日本へようこそ!

    Welcome through customs by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi.
    Included, but unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo (see details).

    The transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other guests departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival, and stops may be made before your hotel.

    If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option.

    Check in at Hotel OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).

  • Day 2 : First steps in the capital

    What to do in Tokyo on your first day

    We recommend that you start your visit to Tokyo slowly by visiting the following districts:
    - Harajuku, the avant-garde district ; 
    - Meiji Jingû, the imperial sanctuary ;
    - Takeshita-Dôri, a must-see street in the capital ; 
    - Omotesandô, Tokyo's Champs-Élysées ; 
    - Shibuya and its impressive crossroads.

    One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Tokyo (optional, from 9am to 5pm).

  • Day 3 : The big loop

    For this second day of sightseeing in Tokyo, we recommend the following "loop".

    Start at Tokyo Central Station, with its original architecture, then head off to visit :
    - Ginza, Tokyo's chic district ;
    - Tsukiji, the small outdoor food market ;
    - Hama-rikyû, the Japanese garden between Tokyo's buildings ;
    - Asakusa, a traditional district and place of pilgrimage, accessible by cruise on the Sumida river ;
    - Sensô-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in the Japanese capital ;
    - Tokyo Sky Tree, 643 metres high, with its panoramic view of Tokyo at sunset.

    Between Hama-rikyû Garden and Asakusa, why not enjoy a cruise on the Sumida River ?

    End your day in style with an evening stroll through Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's most important areas. Meet your guide at the beginning of your evening for a unique walk lasting around 1 hour and a half, during which you will pass through Kabukicho and Golden Gai, among other places. 
    More details on the exact day and meeting place in your travel diary.

  • Day 4 : Follow the guide

    There are still many places to discover according to your taste ! Ueno, Yanaka, Odaiba...

    Don't hesitate to book an English-speaking guide for the day (optional) to visit Tokyo off the beaten path!

    Make the most of our many optional activities:
    - Are you looking more for fun? Ghibli Museum, Disneyland or Hello Kitty Park are waiting for you!
    - Do you prefer a themed activity? Book a visit on an architecture tour, gardens, home cooking or Noh's theatre.
    - Chasing thrills? Let yourself be tempted by a helicopter ride or a sumo tournament (in season)!

  • Day 5 : At the heart of the Japanese soul

    In the morning, send your luggage to your hotel in Kyoto (details in your travel diary, check with the hotel reception) so that you can travel light for your night in Hakone.

    Go to Shinjuku station to activate your Hakone Free Pass and board a train for Hakone Yumoto (1h30 journey, details in your travel guide, included in your package). The train leaves the Japanese megalopolis and gradually winds its way through the valleys of the Mount Fuji region. You will arrive in Hakone in the late morning. Reach Ichinoyu Shinkan ryôkan or equivalent to drop off your small bag and explore the region.

    You'll be charmed by the beautiful scenery of this spa resort, Lake Ashi and its view of Mount Fuji (on a clear day!). Not forgetting the Owakudani volcanic site, accessible by cable car. All transport (train, bus, cable car and funicular) is included in your package.
    If you wish to be accompanied during this day, one of our English-speaking guides can help reveal the secrets of the Mount Fuji region (optional).

    Come back to your ryôkan at the end of the afternoon, as your traditional Japanese dinner will be waiting for you at around 6.30pm, before enjoying a Japanese-style night!

    More details below on the features of the night in a ryôkan.

  • Day 6 : The former capital

    Head to Hakone Yumoto station and then Odawara station to board one of the fastest trains in the world : the Shinkansen ! Shinkansen journey to Kyoto (direct, approx. 2h, including reserved tickets). We'll do our best to reserve seats for you so you can get a last look at Mount Fuji at the very beginning of the journey!

    Check into the RAKURO 京都 by THE SHARE HOTELS or equivalent (rooms available from 3pm).

    You have 3 days to visit Kyoto.
    Start in the afternoon in the historic Gion district, close to your accommodation :
    - Kiyomizu-Dera, the impressive water temple ;
    - The historic lanes of Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka ;
    - Kôdai-ji, Kyoto's temple of maple trees and bamboo.

    Meet your guide at the beginning of your evening to start your evening walk around Gion, Kyoto's historic district (more details on the exact day and meeting point can be found in your travel guide).
    More details on the exact day and meeting point can be found in your travel guide.

    At the end of this 1h30 walk, your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat dinner!
    Please note that it is strictly forbidden to take pictures in the historic district of Gion.

  • Day 7 : Gold and Silver Treasures

    For your second day in Kyoto, we recommend the following itinerary:
    - The Zen garden of Ryôan-ji ;
    - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) ;
    - Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
    - The enchanting Philosopher's Path ;
    - Nanzen-ji temple;

    One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can accompany you on a tour of these iconic sites (available as an option, from 9am to 5pm).

  • Day 8 : Between temples and deer

    For the last day, we recommend taking the 50 minute journey to Nara, included in your package.

    Visit Nara, Japan's first fixed capital in the 8th century.
    Discover :
    - The Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine and its thousands of lanterns ; 
    - Tôdai-ji, with its great bronze Buddha and the imposing Nan-Daimon gate ; 
    - Kôfuku-ji temple and its delightful pagoda.

    Return to Kyoto and stop to see the sunset at the Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kyoto's immense shrine of 10,000 torii.

    If you wish to be accompanied on this day, one of our English-speaking guides will reveal all the secrets of Japan's first capital (optional).

  • Day 9 : A crossroads between two islands

    Head to Okayama by shinkansen (about 1 hour 30, included in your Kansai Hiroshima pass). Check into your hotel located between the station and the castle.

    We advise you to head out early to explore the castle and its magnificent Kôraku-en park, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, before leaving in the middle of the afternoon for the romantic town of Kurashiki, a 17-minute train ride from Okayama (included in your Kansai Hiroshima pass).

    Kurashiki, an old commercial metropolis lined with canals will certainly seduce you :
    - Bikan, a district with typical architecture ; 
    - The Ohara Museum, keeper of paintings by Monet, Matisse, Renoir, among others ;
    - The Museum of Popular Arts dedicated to regional history.

  • Day 10 : The Art Island

    Breakfast at the hotel.

    We recommend you to spend the day visiting Naoshima Island, located 1 hour from Okayama : 45 minutes by train (1 change, included in your Kansai Hiroshima pass) and 15 minutes by boat (not included in your Kansai Hiroshima pass, about €4.50/pers for a one-way ticket). Details in your travel diary.

    Naoshima Island is world-famous for its modern art museums, the architecture of some of its buildings, and the scattered outdoor sculptures throughout its territory. These numerous museums and buildings were designed by the architect Andô Tadao. You will be impressed, among other things, by Monet's Water Lilies, displayed in a simple room where you enter without shoes!

    Please note that a reservation is required in order to access the Chichu Art Museum. 

    Return to Okayama at the end of the day by the same route as in the morning, in the middle of the Japanese countryside.

  • Day 11 : The Sacred Island

    Breakfast at the hotel.

    In the morning, send your luggage to your hotel in Fukuoka (details in your travel diary, check with the hotel reception) so that you can travel light for your night in Miyajima.

    Take the shinkansen to Miyajima (about 1 hour 15, 1 change) then then boat (20 minutes), both included in your Kansai Hiroshima pass.

    Reach your ryôkan near the island's ferry terminal. The time to explore the island has come ! Its Itsukushima-jinja shrine and the great Ôtorii gate built into the sea are definitely a must-see.

    Take the cable car up to Mount Misen and then descend on foot. A breathtaking view of Hiroshima Bay awaits you!

    At the ryôkan, you will be treated to a tasty traditional Japanese dinner before retiring to your tatami room.

  • Day 12 : Make way for history

    Traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryôkan.

    In the morning, make a brief stop in Hiroshima (30 minutes by train from Miyajimaguchi Ferry Station, included in your Kansai Hiroshima pass) and visit the Peace Park and its memorial.

    From Hiroshima, head to the island of Kyushu and its capital, Fukuoka, just 1 hour away by shinkansen (included in the price of your tour).

    Arrive in the centre of the vibrant city of Fukuoka and check into your hotel located near the central station.

    With its 2000 years of history, the capital of Kyushu has always been the gateway to Asia (Korea and China) and Western culture (Portugal and its Jesuits, Holland). Another Japan, further away from Tokyo, awaits you. 

    Capital of a booming region, Fukuoka is now one of the most dynamic cities in Japan with its many high-tech companies and the hosting of a global event : the Rugby World Cup in October 2019.

    Visit the lively Nakasu and Tenjin districts and their hundreds of delicious and welcoming open-air restaurants at low prices "yatai". A great way to spend one final evening!

  • Day 13 : Sayonara, and see you next time!

    Transfer to Fukuoka International Airport (Japan's 4th largest airport, located in the heart of the city) in 5 minutes by metro from Hakata Central Station, see details below.

    Return flight to Europe with a change in Tokyo, Helsinki or one of the major Asian cities.

    Don't hesitate to extend your trip by one or more days, to Fukuoka or Kyushu Island : Nagasaki, Beppu, Kagoshima, Aso volcano... We will be able to advise you!

From
1 431 € per person - 13 days
Contact an advisor
  • Accommodation

    - 4 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of Tokyo, close to public transport

    - 1 night in a 3* ryôkan in Hakone Mount Fuji, traditional half-board

    - 3 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of Kyoto, close to public transport

    - 2 nights in a 3* hotel in Okayama, near the train station

    - 1 night in a 3* ryôkan in Miyajima (on or opposite the island), traditional half-board

    - 1 night in a 3* hotel in Fukuoka, near the train station

    The basic rate includes a twin room for two people.

  • Transport

    - Airport transfer to Tokyo HND or NRT

    - Prepaid public transport card

    - Hakone Free pass for 2 days

    - Shinkansen Odawara (Hakone) > Kyoto, seats reserved in standard class

    - Shinkansen Hiroshima > Fukuoka, seats reserved in standard class

    - Kansai Hiroshima pass for 5 days

  • Experiences and meals

    - Airport meet and greet 

    - Traditional dinner and breakfast included at the ryôkan in Hakone and Miyajima

    - Discounts at many of Hakone tourist sites

    - The 2 breakfasts in Okayama

    - Night guided tour of Shinjuku, Tokyo and Gion, Kyoto

  • Additional services

    - Unlimited internet access with Pocket WiFi

    - Complete digital travel guide sent before your departure

    - Luggage transfer between your hotels in Tokyo > Kyoto and Okayama > Fukuoka

    - Telephone assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Japanese bilingual. The number will be given to you in your travel pack. This phone number is valid for telephone calls and also for WhatsApp.

  • Not included in the price of your trip

    - Flights Europe <> Japan

    - Optional insurance

    - Personal expenses, including meals (breakfasts can sometimes be added as an option at your hotel reception, see details). For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack.

    - Public transport once your transport cards have run out (see details)

    - Everything not mentioned in the section "Included in your tour".

More about your trip

Your tour :

  • The prices displayed on this page may vary according to the exchange rate of the Japanese ¥.
  • Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
  • Children and babies accepted. From 3 to 11 years old a child rate is offered. In each accommodation, a standard adult bed will be offered to them, and a standard seat will be allocated to them in transport. From 0 to 2 years old inclusive, a "baby" rate is offered. This price corresponds to the allocation of a cot in the majority of the accommodation of the chosen circuit. However, we cannot guarantee a baby cot in each accommodation.
  • Pets are not allowed.
  • This programme is subject to change due to circumstances such as weather conditions or any other case of force majeure. Please note that due to the current circumstances, any information mentioned is subject to change or modification.
  • Your travel documents will be given to you as follows:
    • Travel diary by email before departure, and other electronic documents
    • Paper documents (airport transfer ticket, transportation card, Kansai Hiroshima Pass voucher) and Pocket WiFi upon arrival at the airport by our airport assistant.
  • Note: In very rare cases, mostly in very high season, steps might be reversed. You will be informed in your mini travel-guide. Thanks for your kind understanding.

Your accommodation :

  • Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the city and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the booking price. Normally, it is 200¥/night/person (about £1.37/1.93$) but can be slightly higher in 4* hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception. For traditional Japan Experience accommodations, it is included in the initial tour price.
  • Room size: in Japan, a densely populated country where everything is compact, 3-star luxury hotels are of very good quality but the rooms are often quite narrow (12 to 20m2/129 sq ft to 215 sq ft) depending on the hotel. Please note the size of the single room, between 10 and 16m2 (107sq ft and 172sq ft). For more comfort, you can choose our luxury 4* accommodation upgrade option. (This option is only valid for the hotel in Tokyo, not for the traditional accommodation in Kyoto).
  • Double room: Rooms for two people in western hotels have 2 single beds (twin rooms) by default, which can usually be joined together. As an option, you can select a double room instead of a twin if you prefer a double bed.
  • Single room: People travelling alone and wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. The single room supplement is compulsory for orders with an odd number of participants. Please note that if you request more than two people in a single room, the single room supplement will be applied to all accommodation except for the ryokans (3 and 4*). In fact, as this is traditional accommodation, people with the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms for up to 5 people.
  • 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, a triple room will be allocated to you.
  • In the case of a group order (> 5 people), it is possible, depending on hotel availability, that not all members of the group will be accommodated in the same hotel. Nevertheless, we aim to keep you close.
  • Names of the hotels : The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled. Hotels, corresponding to local standards, are given as an indication and may be changed on site for hotels of a similar category.
  • In the ryôkan, guests sleep on comfortable futons placed on the tatami mat. The room has a private sink and toilet. As is customary in Japanese ryôkan, the onsen bathroom is shared (not mixed) unless you take the "private bathroom in the room" option.
    OPTIONAL: Enjoy a private bathroom (japanese or western) in your room, not an onsen bath. This option is recommended for mixed couples, families, people who are modest or have visible tattoos.
    The 4* ryôkan (see 4* option) have comfortable futons raised on either western beds in a traditional tatami room. The bathrooms and toilets of the 4* ryôkan are private.

Your transport :

  • Flights are not included in this tour. Do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to include flights in your order: Flights in economy class with stopovers or direct flights, eco-premium or business air upgrades, provincial departures or abroad: we will be able to advise you.
  • The tour departure and end dates presented on this page relate to your stay in Japan. You will arrive in Japan via Tokyo (Narita or Haneda airports) and will leave from Fukuoka airport (FUK). You will have to leave Europe the day before and land at 18pm at the latest to make the most of the airport services of your tour (welcome and transfer to Tokyo). The return flight is on the same day due to the time difference, with a departure time of 9am at the earliest. Please do not hesitate to consult us for any uncertainty or need for precision in the choice of international flights.
  • Please note that for the return flight from Fukuoka International Airport, you will need to change at Tokyo, Helsinki or one of the major Asian cities. In Tokyo and Seoul, please check that the connecting airports are the same. Fukuoka -> Tokyo and Fukuoka -> Seoul flights sometimes land at different airports (Tokyo Haneda HND or Seoul Gimpo GMP) from those from which international flights to Europe depart (Tokyo Narita NRT or Seoul Incheon ICN).
  • If the flights have been purchased by your care without the intervention of Japan Experience, it is necessary to send us by mail 1 month before your departure your flight information (flight number, airport, date and time of arrival) to allow us 'Organize your welcome and airport transfer.
  • Airport Transfers: The shared limousine bus leaves from the airport and stops either in front of your hotel or at a stop within 1-15 minutes walk from your hotel. Our airport assistant in Tokyo will drive you to the platform to pick up the airport transfer. The transfer to the hotel is unassisted. If you wish to be accompanied from the airport to your hotel reception, please choose the option "Accompanied Airport Transfer". This transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other clients leaving for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers leave between 1.5 and 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival and stops can be made before your hotel. If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the actual arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option. Please note: due to the many changes in flight schedules by the airlines, if the airline notifies you of a change in arrival time less than 72 hours before your departure, and if it exceeds 45 minutes, we cannot guarantee your airport shuttle. You will then have to take a taxi at your own expense, requesting a refund from your airline for abusive schedule changes. The same applies to your return journey: 72 hours before your return flight, we cannot change the shuttle schedule. Similarly, you will have to take a taxi booked with the hotel, at your own expense, with reimbursement procedures with the airline company being the only solution. Japan Experience is not responsible for last minute schedule changes.
  • The return transfer from your hotel to Fukuoka International Airport is by public transport from the central station. 5 minutes by metro from Hakata Central Station, located near your hotel. It's a straightforward journey, with the train arriving directly at the airport. There are 2 terminals connected by a free shuttle bus.
    Cost: 260¥ (about £1.71 / 2.42$, paid with your prepaid transport card, already loaded with the amount for the transfer).
    From 5:30am to 12:25am, with metros every 4 to 8 minutes.
    If you want door-to-door transport, we recommend that you contact your hotel reception to order a taxi. It will cost you approximately £12.86 / 17.78$ for a 20 minute journey.
  • Included in your tour is a pre-charged transport prepayment card of ¥ 1,500 (around £10.30 / 14.54$) (suica or Pasmo brand); a transport pass for the Tokyo Shinjuku -> Hakone route and all transport in the Hakone region (excluding taxis) and a 5-day Kansai Hiroshima pass, Shinkansen tickets for Odawara (Hakone) > Kyoto and Hiroshima > Fukuoka, seats reserved in standard class. These 3 cards should cover a large part of your trips during the stay. Upon expiry of the 1,500¥ Transport Prepayment Card, or if the line you are travelling on is not covered by your two pass, any travel will be at your own expense by recharging your prepaid transport card (at vending machines in all stations and metro stations). 

Your activities :

  • Airport reception is in English. Your airport assistant will be waiting for you at the customs exit holding a sign with the name of the reservation. They will give you your travel documents and take you to your airport transfer. They will not accompany you to Tokyo (this is possible, but optional).
  • The Shinjuku tour is a guided group tour lasting around 2 hours and departing at 7pm. Please note that the tour will be conducted in English if your group is made up of travellers of different nationalities. More details on the meeting point in your travel pack. Dinner is not included, but your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat.
  • The guided tour of Gion lasts around 2 hours and departs at 7pm. Please note that the tour will be conducted in English if your group is made up of travellers of different nationalities. More details on the meeting point in your travel pack. Dinner is not included, but your guide will be able to recommend the best places to eat.

Your meals :

  • Breakfasts which are not included in your package can be added at the reception when you arrive at the hotel. However, you will find many cafés near your hotel serving copious breakfasts, often tastier than those in the hotels, which sometimes have tight schedules and are predominantly savoury. However, if you would like to add breakfast to your offer when you make your reservation, you can select it as an option.
  • Traditional Japanese dinner and Japanese breakfast (mostly savoury) are included in your Hakone tour. Do not hesitate to indicate any dietary requirements you may have, we will pass them on to the ryôkan so that they can take them into account when planning the meals. If the ryôkan does not take any of these dietary requirements into account, we cannot be held responsible and no compensation will be issued.

Your additional services:

  • A pocket wifi is included in your tour. It allows unlimited high-speed internet access. Your Pocket WiFi will be given to you at the airport of arrival.
  • It comes with a small booklet to operate your device (don't panic: simple operation) and a prepaid envelope to return your device at the end of your stay. Your pocket wifi will work naturally until the last day of your trip to Japan.
  • A maximum of 5 devices can be connected to a pocket wifi (phone, tablet, computer).
  • A single pocket wifi is provided for a circuit order of 1 to 5 people. For an order of 6 people or more, a second pocket wifi will be added automatically and at no extra cost to your reservation.

A 35% deposit is required at the time of booking to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 35 days before the departure date.

What kind of insurance coverage is available for your Japan trip ?

When you book with Japan Experience, you have the option of purchasing two types of coverage:

  • Japan Experience Flex : This insurance covers expenses related to trip cancellations for specific reasons (disease, accident, passing...)

  • Japan Experience Protect : This insurance provides overall coverage for various aspect of the trip. For instance: cancellation, flight delay or missing flight, lost luggage, travel incident and repatriation, assistance, etc...

As of October 11, 2022, Japan will open its borders to all Europeans (including the European Union, the United Kingdom and Switzerland) and North Americans (Canada and the United States) without requiring a visa.

Only non-triply vaccinated travelers need a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours prior to departure.

Do I still need a visa to travel to Japan as a tourist?

No, no visa is required for blue countries including all European countries (European Union, United Kingdom and Switzerland included) and North American countries (Canada and United States). List of blue countries: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html. If you have another nationality, please contact the Japanese embassy in your country of residence to obtain this visa.

Do I still need a PCR or antigen test to go to Japan?

No, if you are triple vaccinated with the vaccines approved by Japan (Pfizer, Moderna, ...exhaustive list here : https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page24e_000317.html) there is no need for any test.

I do not have 3 doses of vaccine or I am not vaccinated against COVID, can I enter Japan?

Proof of Covid vaccines is no longer required for travelers from "blue" countries. Therefore, unvaccinated travelers can enter Japan if they live in blue countries. But a negative PCR test is required at embarkation for travelers who are not vaccinated 3 times.

Is there still a quarantine upon arrival in Japan?

Quarantine and testing on arrival have been eliminated for travelers from blue countries.

Is insurance mandatory?

No, but it is recommended. Japan Experience, as an option of its tours, provides appropriate travel insurance solutions.

What anti-covid measures are still in place in Japan?

The mask must be worn indoors (except in exceptional cases) and in transportation.

What applications should I download before entering Japan?

For tracking the evolution of the coronavirus epidemic, the Japanese government recommends downloading several applications:

MySOS, the health and location tracking app (it will be used to confirm your location, health status and accommodation).

COCOA, the COVID-19 contact confirmation app (this will be used to notify you of possible contact with a COVID-19 positive person).

For more information, please visit: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/manual/pdf-en/summary.pdf 



 

The must-see places for a first trip to Japan are:

  1. Tokyo, the megalopolis with a thousand sides to it
  2. Kyoto, the capital of sophistication and Nara, with its temples and deer
  3. Hiroshima, between memory and modern times, and its sacred island Miyajima
  4. Mount Fuji, Japan's most famous mountain
  5. The Japanese Alps: Takayama, Matsumoto, Shirakawa-go
  6. Kanazawa, both modern and traditional, on the Sea of Japan

And many other unforgettable places to discover in our tours.

For a first trip to Japan, a period of 2 weeks is optimal, with at least 3 days in Tokyo and 3 days in Kyoto and its region. Don't forget to take some time at the beginning of the trip to get used to the time difference.

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, ranked in the top 10 by the Global Peace Index.

Therefore travelling alone is safe. Women and girls can travel alone without fear of being harassed or solicited in public places. The same goes for children, who can be seen going to school alone in the metro from the age of 7. This can give you an idea of the country's level of safety. Last but not least, Japan is a haven for children: the safety, the amusement parks, the friendly attitude of the population.

Simple and easy, just book directly online on our website:
 

  1. You choose the tour of your choice, your departure date and the number of participants. Several options are available.
  2. Pay a deposit of 35% of the total amount online and confirm your booking.
  3. You receive an e-mail confirmation of your booking.
  4. You book your plane ticket, either with Japan Experience or by yourself (taking into account the times required for your tour to run smoothly).
  5. You pay the balance of your invoice up to one month before departure.


For more information about our tours or your booking, don 't hesitate to contact our advisers on + 44 (0)20 3514 6932 or contact@japan-experience.com. 
You can also visit us in our London office.

 

Whether you're looking for a voyage of discovery or a more in-depth study, a fully organized trip or a self-guided tour, at Japan Experience, you'll find the tour that's right for you!
 

Our 3 formulas:

  • Accompanied tours (group tours): Travel with a specialist! Would you like an organized tour in a small group of 8 to 12 people, accompanied by a private guide? Classic destinations or off the beaten path, we offer a wide range of escorted tours to suit all budgets. Offering several departure dates throughout the year, these tours start from €2,890 ( $3,345 ) per person.
     
  • Private (Self-guided tours): Travel in complete autonomy These pre-designed itineraries include traveler accommodation, flights, transportation, 24-hour assistance, and optional guided activities. From €540 ( $625 ) per person, organize your days as you wish, following the recommendations in your travel guide.
     
  • Tailor-made tours: travel to your heart's content Build the trip that's closest to your heart! Our specialist advisors are on hand to answer your questions by email, phone or in our stores, and to help you design your own personalized trip.
     

ℹ️ London Office
The London office is open 6 days a week; come and meet our travel experts.

We typically suggest the following times to visit Japan: 

Spring (late February - late May): Spring”s mild temperatures are ideal for all kinds of activities. This is, of course, also the time when the sakura (cherry blossoms) bloom. 

Summer (June - August): The heat quickly takes over from the rainy season at the end of June. Despite the heaat, you can still enjoy the many fireworks displays and open-air matsuri (traditional festivals). 

Autumn (September - November): Temperatures are pleasant during this season and the momiji (maple leaves) glow gorgeous colors 

Winter (December - February): Discover gorgeous winter landscapes, such as the Zen Garden of Kanazawa under the snow. January is defined by numerous festivities and the winter sports craze! 

The most popular travel periods are: 
- Early January: for New Year's Eve, when many businesses and activities are closed 
- February: the plum blossom season and the 10 days around Chinese New Year are a big draw for tourists from Asia 
- Late March - early April: cherry blossom season 
- Late April - early May: "Golden Week" is a period of many public holidays. Many people in Japan go on vacation 
- Mid-August: during the Obon Matsuri 
- Late November: for momiji viewing 

To avoid the crowds, Japan Experience recommends: 
- February: outside the Chinese New Year period 
- Mid-May - early June: to take advantage of mild weather and more affordable prices just before the rainy season 
- September - early December: to enjoy mild temperatures and autumn leaves

Do you have any other questions?
We are here to help you
Check the FAQ

Our commitments as Japan Experience, Europe No. 1 travel in Japan

  • The guarantee of the first tour operator specialised exclusively in Japan for 40 years
  • A wide range of products to let you Experience Japan from the inside
  • Competitive prices thanks to a single team in UK, Europe, USA and Japan, with no intermediaries
  • Assistance available in Japan throughout your trip
  • A specialised team is available 7 days a week by phone or email
  • The best advice thanks to the 3,500 articles available on our website

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