9-Day Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo | Small Group Tour

(5 Reviews)
Product Code: 226612

OVERVIEW

Highlights

    • 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners included
    • Take in views of Mt Fuji
    • Stay in temple lodging and learn about Buddhism
    • Gaze at the famous floating torii gate in Miyajima
    • Explore Kyoto's Nijo Castle
Tour Code
226612
Duration
9 day
Departure City
Osaka
End City
Tokyo
Language
English

IS THIS TOUR FOR ME?

Group Size: Small group tour

Take an intimate and semi-private trip with a small group

Activity Level: Moderate

Designed for travelers in good health who are comfortable with light walking or hiking

Itinerary

Day 01
Osaka

Osaka

Hotel: Hearton Hotel Nishi Umeda or similar

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Excluded

Arrive at any time.

【Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group】

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.


Meal

  • B:Excluded
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 02

Osaka - Kōyasan

Hotel: Sekishoin or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Included

Travel to the centre of Buddhism in Japan and sleep in a temple atop the 800m Mt Koya. Savour a traditional dinner of shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). Watch the monks pray in the morning.

Journey to Mt Koya, a religious centre founded in 816 by the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi. The train ride up the mountain is possibly one of the finest rail journeys in Japan. For the final steep ascent, switch to funicular and then hop on a bus to reach the monastery.

In the evening, dine on shojin-ryori, typical vegetarian cuisine, and relax in a yukata, or kimono.

【Train】

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

【Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in Mount Kōya Temple】

​​​​​​​
During the overnight stay in the mountain temple, witness the routines of the monks and dine on typical fare. Explore the temples and moss covered Oku-no-in cemetery in the afternoon. In the evening, savour the shojin-ryori vegetarian cuisine, and relax in a yukata or kimono. Early morning at the temple offers the chance to observe the monks praying, before a vegetarian breakfast. Breathe the fresh mountain air and soak in the beautiful surroundings.


Tips:
* Please note that the new JR Pass validation policy asks travellers to come to the office counter to activate their JR Pass.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Included
Day 03
Hiroshima

Kōyasan - Hiroshima

Hotel: Via Inn Hiroshima Shinkansenguchi or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

Watch the monks pray in the morning and enjoy a traditional breakfast. Have some time to enjoy Koyasan this morning, before travelling to Hiroshima this afternoon.

Early morning offers the chance to observe the monks praying. Breathe in some fresh mountain air before a vegetarian breakfast, then start the journey back down the mountain via bus, train and funicular.

Later, board a train to Hiroshima, a historically significant city, marked by the explosion of the first atomic bomb in 1945.

【Bullet Train】

Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.

【Oku-no-in Cemetery Visit】

Oku-no-in is the most sacred site in Koyasan and the location of the mausoleum for Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism. The area is surrounded by a massive cemetery, the largest in Japan. With over 200,000 tombstones lining the almost 2km path to Kobo Daishi's mausoleum, there is plenty of area to explore. Be sure to see Torodo Hall (Hall of Lamps), the main place of worship, where more than 10,000 lanterns are kept burning day and night.


Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 04
Hiroshima

Hiroshima

Hotel: Via Inn Hiroshima Shinkansenguchi or similar

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Excluded

This morning, visit the Peace Park and Memorial Museum commemorating the events of 1945. In the afternoon, take a ferry ride over to the sacred island of Miyajima to see the famous floating Torii Gate. Opt to hike around Mt Misen.

【Hiroshima Park and Peace Memorial】

Walk through the Peace Park in the centre of Hiroshima, a living memorial dedicated to the tens of thousands who died from the atomic bomb blast in 1945. Visit the statue of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who died of leukemia as a result of the bomb blast, despite folding 1,000 origami paper cranes to appeal to the gods to make her well. See the frame of the Gembaku Dome, the sole building to withstand the explosion. Reflect, remember, and be reminded of the power we all hold to create peace.

【Ferry】

Hop a ferry to reach the island and journey back in the evening.

【Miyajima Island Visit】

Take a trip to Miyajima Island, famed as one of Japan's most scenic spots, with a free afternoon to explore. See the famous floating Torii Gate, set out in the bay, which glows extraordinarily at sunset. The island is dotted with shrines and temples, populated by deer, and traversed with hiking trails for those who want to get some exercise. There are also lanes full of souvenirs and tasty treats. Visit Miyajima at your own pace, and have the option to hike up to the peak of the island, Mt Misen, to see spectacular views of the surrounding islands.

【Free Time】

Free time on Miyajima Island to make the most of this beautiful location.


Visiting Attractions

  • miyajima island miyajima island

Meal

  • B:Excluded
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 05
Kyoto

Hiroshima - Kyoto

Hotel: Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo or similar

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Excluded

Travel to Kyoto and start exploring. Visit the impressive Nijo Castle and gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, explore the geisha district of Gion on a CEO-led walking tour.

【Bullet Train】

Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.

【Gion Walk】

Walk through Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district. Visit shops, restaurants and ochaya (teahouses), where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) entertain.

【Nijo Castle and Gardens Visit】

Visit the Nijo Castle, the residence of the first shogun of the Edo Period built in 1603. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the property is divided into three areas: the Honmaru (main circular fortification), Ninomaru (secondary circle of defense), and the gorgeous gardens that surround both.

Tips:
* Please note the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle will be closed from Dec 26-Jan 3. Groups travelling during this time will visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Meal

  • B:Excluded
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 06
Kyoto

Kyoto

Hotel: Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo or similar

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Excluded

Enjoy a visit to the beautiful Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine and walk under the bright torii gates. Opt to shop, stroll along the riverbank, or explore another of Kyoto's many temples with free time.

【Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Visit】

Visit the Fushimi Inari shrine, located just outside of Kyoto. Walk under the thousands of iconic torii gates (as seen in the film Memoirs of a Geisha) and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The shrine itself is at the base of the Inari mountain but includes many trails up to smaller shrines in the area.

【Free Time】

​​​​​​​
Continue exploring Japan's historic capital with some free time.


Meal

  • B:Excluded
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 07
Hakone

Kyoto - Hakone

Hotel: TKP Hotel & Resort Rekutore Hakone Gora or similar

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Included

Take a boat ride on Lake Ashino-ko, and hopefully catch a glimpse of majestic Mt Fuji. Enjoy a feast on a Japanese multi-course kaiseki meal then soak in the natural hot springs.

Travel to Hakone, a town in the hills famous for its onsens, or natural hot springs.

In the evening, enjoy savouring a complex meal of traditional Japanese foods, followed by a recommended soak in the onsen.

【Bullet Train】

Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.

【Lake Ashino-ko Boat Ride】

Hop aboard a passenger boat to cruise the waters of Lake Ashinoko. If you are lucky, on a clear day you can capture a view of Mt Fuji. The lake was formed from the caldera of Mt Hakone following its eruption 3000 years ago. Sit back, relax and enjoy.

【Traditional Kaiseki Meal】

Savour a complex meal of traditional Japanese foods, then finish the day with a soak in the onsen.


Meal

  • B:Excluded
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Included
Day 08
Tokyo

Hakone - Tokyo

Hotel: Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

Head to Tokyo with time to do some last-minute shopping.

Arrive before noon to Tokyo, with time to explore this energetic metropolis.

Opt to visit Ueno park and the museums, Akihabara for cutting edge electronics, Harajuku for funky fashions, Ginza for the highest of the high end, walk the grounds of the Imperial Palace East Garden, or just stroll the streets, looking for the traditional life that still lies just under the modern surface.

【Bullet Train】

Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.

【Free Time】

With so much to do, start exploring now.


Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 09
Tokyo

Tokyo

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Excluded

Depart at any time.


Meal

  • B:Excluded
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Please note that order of day-to-day itinerary is adjustable depending on tour start day.

Own Expenses

Day Activity Price Additional Information
D4 Mt. Misen Visit Free-JPY1840.00/Person
D6 Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji JPY500.00/Person
D8 Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) Visit Free-JPY1000.00/Person
  • All mandatory fees must be paid in cash to the tour guide and tickets cannot be pre-purchased separatedly.
  • Any optional activities you wish to join must be paid to your tour guide in cash.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Package Includes

    • 8-night accommodations
    • Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group
    • Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in Mount Kōya Temple, Kōyasan
    • Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum visit
    • Miyajima Island excursion
    • Nijo Castle and gardens visit
    • Gion walk
    • Fushimi Inari shrine visit
    • Lake Ashino-ko boat ride
    • Traditional kaiseki meal
    • Japan Rail (JR) pass (7 days)
    • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
    • Bullet train, tram, ferry, public bus, walking
    • Group Leader: 1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout
    • 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners (Allow USD390-510 for meals not included)

Package Excludes

    • Airfares or related transportation between your home and destination
    • All personal expenses including hotel room service and meals; however, you have the option to pay for meals that tour guide arranges
    • Optional tours (Items and prices may vary due to different seasons and are subject to the final confirmation made by tour guide when on tour.)
    • Tipping is not practiced in Japan. Leaving money at restaurants, in taxis etc will simply cause confusion! Also at the end of each trip if you felt your CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is highly appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $5 USD per guest, per day can be used.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation made within:

  • 0 - 31 Days Prior to Departure Date - Non-refundable
  • 32 - 61 Days Prior to Departure Date - 50% of total purchase amount can be refunded
  • 62 or More Days - 90% of total purchase amount can be refunded
Please Note:
• We are not responsible for any incidental expenses or consequential losses that the Client may have incurred as a result of the booking such as visas, vaccinations, non-refundable flights or rail, non refundable car parking or other fees, loss of earnings, or loss of enjoyment, etc. If the Client is offered a refund but requests an alternative tour of a higher value than that originally booked, then the Client must pay the difference in price.

Special Notes

    • Be prepared before you leave for your trip
      Please carefully read all of the info below as it's designed to help you have a smooth travel experience.
      * One of our core values is to lead with service. Our Global Connection Officers (or GCOs, the people who answer when you call us) and travel agent partners will do their very best to provide you with the latest information before your trip. There are, however, certain things that are the responsibility of the traveller.
      * All the travellers are responsible for arranging and obtaining the required entry documentation for the countries they intend to visit.
      * In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, entry requirements and restrictions dictated by foreign governments can change frequently and irrespective of your intended date of travel. These requirements and restrictions may depend on different factors such as your country of residence, passport nationality, destination and transit points, as well as previous travel history. Given these considerations, it is the traveller’s responsibility to research and to understand the latest travel and health requirements and restrictions by destination which are most relevant to them at the time of travel and to the destination(s) they are planning to visit, as well as to keep themselves up to date.
      * Important considerations:
      - Don't forget to consider the latest travel and health requirements and restrictions by destination, for both directions of travel - not just for the start country of your tour.
      - Don't book your international flights before you do your own research, or before you talk to one of our GCOs or your travel agent, as you may be required to book post-nights before your return flight in order to accommodate COVID-19 testing.
      - If you visit multiple countries as part of your itinerary or on the way to your destination, there may be additional entry requirements. Keep this in consideration when verifying your documentation.
      - If you are travelling with minors (under the age of 18), additional documentation may be required to enter the country visited. Please contact the Embassy for more information.
    • Dossier Disclaimer
      * The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
      * VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
    • Itinerary Disclaimer
      * While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
      * Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
    • Luggage size restriction
      * The tour in Japan use the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains, which have a restriction on maximum luggage size. Your luggage must be less than 160cm in total. This is roughly the size that most airline companies consider as "carry-on baggage" and allow in overhead storage compartments.
      * We strongly recommend bringing a day pack or backpack to use during the day, in addition to your carry-on sized luggage. Please see “What to take” under Tour details for more information.
    • Important Notes
      * Please note that this tour combines with other tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with us, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another tour, after your trip concludes.
      * Please note that only foreigners traveling as a tourist are able to use a Japan Rail Pass. If you are a Japanese citizen/resident or traveling on a student/business/military/diplomatic visa, please advise us at time of booking as you will not be able to take advantage of the rail pass.
      * Tattoos are not common or widely accepted in Japan. There is no cause for concern, but do your best to cover your tattoos when possible and note that you may not be permitted to enter public spas or onsens (hot springs).
      * Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
    • Group Leader Description
      * All the group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
    • Meals
      * Eating is a big part of traveling. G Adventures knows that worldwide, local cuisines define the cultures. We think sampling regional delicacies are intrinsic to truly experiencing the country. We want you to be able to try foods according to your individual tastes, comforts, and budgets.
      * Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility. At times, meals will be taken together as a group. Other times, your CEO will point you in the direction of several delicious options, and you will have free time to pick and choose at will. Often in Japan it is fun to get some snacks and beverages with the salarymen in the evenings at small restaurants, and other times it is fun to sit with a few friends at a sushi train.
      * Your CEO will always strive to cater for all dietary requirements/preferences, but please keep in mind that Vegetarianism/Veganism is very uncommon in Japan so this may mean a more limited selection for you.
      * Please refer to the Meals Included and Budget Information for information regarding included meals on your trip. Japan's kitchen is at your fingertips!
    • What to Take
      * It’s essential to pack as lightly as possible for rail travel in Japan. All G Adventures tours use the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains, which have a restriction on maximum luggage size.
      * Any luggage brought on board must be less than 160cm in total (calculated as the sum of the height + width + depth of your luggage). This is roughly the size that most airline companies consider as "carry-on baggage" and allow in overhead storage compartments. We strongly recommend bringing a day pack or backpack to use during the day (for daily essentials like water, cameras, passport, etc.).
      * Please note that travellers who bring luggage that exceeds this restriction will be directly penalized by the Central Japan Railway Company. Any luggage between 160–250cm will require a fee of 1,000 JPY per luggage, for each leg of your train journey, and is strictly subject to availability. Any luggage over 251cm in total is prohibited on the Shinkansen trains.
      * If you absolutely must bring more than what fits into a single carry-on bag plus day pack, you may bring a second carry-on bag which also must be less than 160cm in total. Please note, however, that as with all G Adventures tours, you must be able to carry your luggage unassisted.
      * You will also be walking with your luggage in busy public train stations to catch connecting trains, so it is highly recommended that you travel light and have easy to handle luggage and are capable of walking up and down the stairs with your luggage without any assistance.
      * We recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips. Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. A large bag will be an inconvenience to you and will slow you down.
      * Takuhaibin - Japan’s takuhaibin service is a convenient and reliable way to transfer luggage from one location to another throughout the country. Pick-up/drop-off/delivery dates and times can be easily scheduled (usually overnight) and costs are moderate. Service can be arranged at most hotels and airports. Using Takuhaibin to send your luggage between hotels, or from hotel to airport, is a great way to travel light and avoid hauling large bags on crowded trains or up and down stairs – just be sure to pack an overnight bag with everything you’ll need until you’re reunited with your luggage the following day.
      * Please make sure to pack a day backpack or a small/lightweight bag for the group overnight in Koyasan.
    • Laundry
      * Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels but this is very expensive. Your leader can show you self service coin laundries in larger cities. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
    • Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
  • The time we mentioned in the itinerary is for reference only. Please refer to your guide on tour for the actual arrangement. The visiting order and duration might be changed according to actual and practical situation for better service.
  • This tour/activity is overseen by a select local operator in the region. Upon booking your tour or activity and after receiving confirmation, you will be issued an e-ticket detailing the local operator's name and contact information. If you require assistance finding a specific tour, please contact us for more information.

Pricing Info

Your reservation is always subject to confirmation by email, normally within one to two business days.

* Price for Single Occupancy applies when one person stays in one standard hotel room.
* Price for Double applies when two people stay in one standard hotel room respectively.
* Children under 12 years of age are not permitted on this tour.
* All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
* Child shares the same price as adult.
* Maximum room capacity: 2 people.

Reservation Info

    1.Immediately after submitting your reservation you will receive a Receipt of Reservation via email.
    2. Within one to two business days of submitting your reservation you will receive a status update email from us. If you need to book an airline ticket, we recommend that you do so after you receive a confirmation of your tour reservation from us.
    3. An E-Ticket will be sent to you via email as soon as details of your reservation are confirmed or your supporting information is received by us. We will provide you with all detailed information about your tour on the E-Ticket. Contact information for local tour provider will be included on E-Ticket for your convenience or re-confirmation purpose if re-confirmation is required.
    4. Simply print your E-Ticket and present it with your valid photo ID on the day of your activity to your tour guide. Please remember E-Ticket is your proof of purchase.

Terms and Conditions

    - Your purchase does not guarantee confirmation. Your purchase will initiate a reservation process. We will confirm with you via email within one to two business days.
    - Prices may vary due to availability. We reserve the right to make price adjustment without prior notice.
    - Please refer to our Standard Amendment, Cancellation and Refund Policy before you make reservation.
    - Please refer to Customer Agreement before you make reservation.
    - Local tour provider reserves the right to make modifications to tour arrangements including order of tour activities, hotel and its location if deemed necessary.

REVIEWS

SATISFACTION

4.8

5 Customer Reviews

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Write a Review and earn 200 points. Attach photos to your review and earn 25 points per photo.
Please check the Rewards4Fun Program FAQ for more information.

Write a review

    Traveler Photos

    Attach photos to your review and earn 25 points per photo.
    Please check the Rewards4Fun Program FAQ for more information

    Share Photos Share Photos

    Edit Photo Title & Description

    Loading……

    Q & A

    We found 0 results matching your search

    Questions previously answered may have different answers due to many reasons: season (date and year of travel), rates, availability, etc. Please check the Rewards4Fun Program FAQ for more information.

    Cant find your answer? Ask us your question and we will respond within the next 24 hours.
    Ask Us
    Ask Us
    (required but will never be displayed)
    (NOTE: HTML is not translated!)
    Modify
    Departure Date:
    Room
    Number of Travelers
    Room 1
    Guest(s)
    - +
    Private Room Exclusive space with personal amenities
    Shared Room
    - $389.00
    Share with a same-gender traveler, separate beds
    Tours Options
    From USD
    $3499 /person
    loading
    Total USD 0
    $3499 How did we get this total?
    0

    AUD: A$ 263.05

    EUR: A$ 263.05

    GBP: A$ 263.05

    USD: A$ 263.05

    Book Now
    Conditional Cancellation
    This tour qualifies for: Free Cancellation 25 or more Days Prior to Departure
    • 16-24 Days Prior to Departure Date - 75% of total purchase amount can be refunded
    • 7-15 Days Prior to Departure Date - 50% of total purchase amount can be refunded
    • 6 Days Prior to Departure Date - Non-refundable
    All cancellations must be made directly with Tours4Fun, not with tour providers. The day mentioned above is based on the date we receive your signed Cancellation Request Form and travel service start date (departure date).
    • 0 - 31 Days Prior to Departure Date - Non-refundable
    • 32 - 61 Days Prior to Departure Date - 50% of total purchase amount can be refunded
    • 62 or More Days - 90% of total purchase amount can be refunded
    Book Now $
    End Date:
    loader
    • Sold Out
    • Available

    Why Book with Tours4fun?

    Questions? 1-866-933-7368

    Many of our tours and activities are available in several languages:

    Guide

    Your guide speaks the language.

    Audio

    A headset or similar audio device in the language is available.

    CloseX
    __SOURCE_IMAGE__
    __REVIEW_DATE__
    __REVIEW_TITLE__
    __REVIEW_DESC__
    __OTHER_IMAGES_IN_REVIEW__

    GET UP TO $100 OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER!

    You'll also receive exclusive offers and latest travel deals!