【Family Adventure】11-Day Japan Family Journey from Tokyo: Nagano, Kyoto and Nara | From Ancient to Modern Times | Small Group Tour

(3 Reviews)
Product Code: 164887

OVERVIEW

Highlights

    • 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners included
    • Take part in a traditional taiko drumming class
    • Learn about the health benefits of the Okinawan cuisine
    • Meet and train with a former sumo wrestler
    • Watch wild snow monkeys bathe in hot springs
    • Learn all about how wasabi is grown
    • Delve into delicious Japanese cuisine while creating your own ramen
    • Encounter fearless deer in the gardens of Nara Park
    • Learn about the legendary swordsmanship of the samurai
Tour Code
164887
Duration
11 day
Departure City
Tokyo
End City
Kyoto
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
Tokyo

Tokyo

Hotel: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku or similar

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Excluded

Arrive in time to meet your fellow travelers for a welcome gathering this evening. Your arrival transfer is included.

【Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting】

The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.

【Airport Transfer】

You will be transferred from the airport to your start hotel.


Tips:
* On our tours in Japan we use public transport, making use of Japan's world famous transportation system. From the super fast Shinkansen Bullet Train to Kyoto's extensive local bus network, we ride with the locals.
* As well, there is a lot of walking on this trip, every day - please ensure you have an average level of fitness and can walk unaided for long periods of time. A good pair of walking shoes are highly recommended.
* Please note: We will use a baggage transfer service, which is included in the cost of your tour, so you will not have to worry about carrying your bags on and off trains as we travel. As such, you will not have access to your bags during the transfers from city to city, and will not be reunited with your luggage until the following day. On these days, we recommend using an overnight bag for anything you may need, including valuables.
* Luggage size restriction:
- All the tours in Japan use the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains, which have a restriction on maximum luggage size. Any luggage brought on board the train 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.
- As this tour includes city-to-city luggage transfers, this restriction affects your carry-on luggage on board the train.

Meal

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

Tokyo

Hotel: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

Today, we’ll see Tokyo from a local’s perspective, traveling by public transit. We start from a traditional Japanese taiko drumming class. Hear how these traditional wooden drums are made and learn three different playing techniques. Put your newly acquired skills to the test during a group performance together with a professional Wadaiko drummer. Later a visit to the serene Meiji Jingu shrine, dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Meiji. Then hit the streets of the buzzing Harajuku district, where kitschy-cute street fashion and candy-colored wigs are the order of the day.

【Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) Visit】

Visit this shrine dedicated to the 123rd emperor of Japan, Emperor Meiji and his wife. The shrine is a great place to escape the bustle of the city and wander the grounds along the wide walking paths.

【Harajuku Visit】

The Harajuku district is known as the centre of Japanese youth culture and fashion. Here, find dozens of shopping and dining options including independent boutiques and larger international luxury stores.

【Your Family Journeys Moment: Traditional Taiko Drumming Class】

Take part in a Taiko drumming class facilitated by a professional Wadaiko drummer. Learn how wadaiko is made, the history of Taiko, how to stand (posture), kamae instruction (the stance), and how to hold the drumsticks. Learn and practice three different styles and then perform together as a group.

【Asakusa Walk】

Discover this historic entertainment district on a guided orientation tour of the area with your CEO. Take in one of Tokyo's iconic sites with a stop at Sensoji temple.


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by public bus, metro and on foot.

Meal

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

Tokyo

Hotel: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Included D:Excluded

Learn Japanese secrets to longevity in a cooking class on Okinawa cuisine, originating from the Japanese island reputed to have the highest life expectancy in the world. Prepare a selection of dishes using typical ingredients and learn about the beneficial qualities of each. Savour your creations for a nutritious lunch and spend the rest of the day discovering Tokyo at leisure.

【Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Okinawa Cooking Class】

Learn about the Okinawan diet and lifestyle during a hands-on cooking class and demonstration. Residents of this Japanese island are known for their long lifespans; adopting their practises might improve your quality of life and help you avoid the onset of common diseases as you age. Prepare a selection of dishes and learn about the typical foods in this diet.

【Free Time】

Enjoy some time to explore the city on your own. Opt to visit Ueno Park or head to the top of the Tokyo Tower and take in stunning views of the city.


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by public bus, metro and on foot.

Meal

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

Tokyo - Nagano (Area)

Hotel: Issa no Komichi Biyu no Yado or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Included

This morning, take a crash course in Japan’s national sport: sumo wrestling! Get initiated into this explosive martial art, which originated as a religious ritual more than a thousand years ago. Learn about the wrestlers’ rigorous routine and mindboggling calorie intake, earn basic technique and watch Sumo wrestling. After the class, journey to Nagano, the beautiful mountain city that hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Settle into our historic ryokan — or traditional Japanese inn — located just outside the city, in the hot springs town of Shibu Onsen.

Ryokan are traditional Inns found across Japan. Featuring tatami floors (soft mats of woven straw), futon beds, Japanese-style baths, cotton kimono (casual robe worn to lounge around), and kaiseki meals (often served in the comfort of your own room); a ryokan is the perfect place to experience traditional customs and local immersion. The Ryokan is a simple, traditional Inn with few amenities and shared facilities, have fun and enjoy this relaxing opportunity to learn more about Japan’s unique customs.

【Your Family Journeys Moment: Sumo Wrestling Class】

Learn all about the history of sumo with a former Sumo wrestler. Wearing a traditional Sumo belt, go through sumo training and learn basic moves of this ancient martial art.

【Bullet Train】

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

【Local Train】

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

【Free Time】

Enjoy some free time to wander thought this traditional hot springs town.


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by public bus, metro, train and on foot.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Included
Day 05
Nagano

Nagano

Hotel: Hotel Metropolitan Nagano or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

Nagano is home to the Japanese macaque, or snow monkey — one of the only primate species that can survive below freezing temperatures. Venture to Jigokudani Yaen Koen (Snow Monkey Park) to watch these furry simians scampering about the rocks or taking a soak in one of the thermal pools, fed by natural hot springs. Then head into Nagano city to explore the 7th-century Buddhist temple of Zenkoji, home to the very first Buddha statue brought to Japan.

【Jigokudani Monkey Park Visit】

Visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild snow monkeys can be seen bathing in the natural hot springs. The pool where most of the monkeys soak is man made, fed by the hot springs. Along the walking paths up to the pools other monkeys tend to stop and watch visitors curiously.

【Local Train】

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

【Zenkō-ji Temple】

Visit the Buddhist temple of Zenkō-ji, one of the last remaining pilgrimage sites. Built in the 7th century, the city of Nagano was built around the already standing structure.

【Free Time】

Enjoy some time to explore the city on your own.


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by public bus, metro, train and on foot.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 06
Nagano

Nagano

Hotel: Hotel Metropolitan Nagano or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

Travel to Matsumoto for a visit to one of Japan’s most treasured castles. Known as the “crow castle” for its imposing black exterior, the Matsumoto fortress dates to the 16th century and was once a stronghold of the samurai, Japan’s elite military class. Later, we make our way to a wasabi farm to learn all about this fiery Japanese condiment and its laborious cultivation. Opt to taste a variety of wasabi products, including wasabi-flavored pickles, crackers, noodles, juice — even wasabi ice cream and chocolate. If you’re brave enough, take a nibble of wasabi in its purest form: fresh!

【Bullet Train】

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

【Matsumoto Castle】

Stop at the castle of Matsumoto one of Japan's most treasured castles, maintaining it's original wooden interior and stone exterior. Explore this castle where 16th century Samurai once roamed before venturing out with the group to wander Matsumoto's ancient streets and or dine in a traditional storehouse.

【Your Foodie Moment: Wasabi Farm Visit】

Visit a wasabi farm and learn all about how it's grown. Nagano is considered one of the best places in the world to cultivate wasabi and try it fresh due to the clear, flowing water from the Northern Alps. Get a chance to try a variety of wasabi related treats.

【Local Train】

Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by train, taxi (to/from the Wasabi Farm) and on foot.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 07
Kyoto

Nagano - Kyoto

Hotel: Mitsui Garden Kyoto Shijo or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

Hop on the bullet train to Kyoto, which served as Japan’s imperial capital for more than a millennium. Delve into the aromatic alleys of Nishiki Market, one of the most popular food markets in the city. Opt to sample local specialties like barbecued quail, soy milk donuts, sesame ice cream, and more, taking your taste buds on a culinary roller coaster. This evening, venture to Gion, Kyoto’s renowned geisha district. As you wander its lantern-lit streets, you might catch a glimpse of a geisha — traditional female entertainers recognizable by their distinctive makeup.

As the Imperial capital, Kyoto is an essential part of any visit to Japan. Kyoto has some of the most magnificent temples in Japan which date back centuries. There are said to be 2,000 temples, shrines, palaces, museums and traditional gardens in Kyoto. Wander past huge wooden structures and multi-storied pagodas, all linked with famous walkways.

【Bullet Train】

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

【Nishiki Market Visit】

Take a walk with your CEO through the famous Nishiki Market renowned as the best place to get your hands on Kyoto’s most famous street food.

【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.


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by train and on foot.

Meal

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

Kyoto

Hotel: Mitsui Garden Kyoto Shijo or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Included D:Excluded

This morning, pay a visit to the Fushimi Inari shrine, located just outside of Kyoto. Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, this beautiful temple is known for its Senbon Torii — a stunning walkaway of vermilion-colored gates. Later, dive into another fun-filled cooking class, rolling up your sleeves to make a steaming bowl of ramen noodles.

【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.

【Your Family Journeys Moment: Ramen Making Class】

Learn about the history and cultural aspects of Ramen during a lunch time cooking class. This includes, Japanese life and Ramen, Ramen types and variety, brief explanation about the ingredients used and the cooking procedure, a “Ramen Making Experience” (making ramen from scratch under guidance of one or two guides depending on the group size) which includes: making/draining the noodles, making chashu. The best part? Enjoy your creation for lunch! and you will get a recipe later !

【Free Time】

​​​​​​​
Enjoy some time to explore the city on your own.


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by public bus, metro and on foot.

Meal

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

Nara

Hotel: Mitsui Garden Kyoto Shijo or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

Spend the day discovering ancient Nara, where Japan’s first capital was established in the early 8th century. Immerse yourself in the ornate halls of the Todaiji temple, and gaze upon the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world, standing nearly 50 feet tall. At Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s most celebrated shrine, stroll romantic walkways lined with hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns, and wander amid the gardens of Nara Park, where herds of semi-domesticated deer roam free. Check out the shops and galleries of the Naramachi district before returning to Kyoto.

【Bullet Train】

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

【Tōdai-ji Buddhist Temple Complex】

Explore the famed Tōdaiji Temple which features the largest bronze Buddha in the world.

【Kasuga Grand Shrine】

Visit this Shinto shrine originally built in 768 AD by the Fujiwara family. This stunning shrine is famed for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns.

【Local Train】

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


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by public bus, metro and on foot.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 10
Kyoto

Kyoto

Hotel: Mitsui Garden Kyoto Shijo or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Included

Unleash your inner warrior this morning with a lesson on samurai swordplay. Learn how to wield a Japanese sword and witness an unforgettable performance by masters of kembu, or sword dance. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Kiyomizudera temple, perched on a hilltop near a sacred waterfall. There is much to keep you busy here: ring giant prayer bowls, sip holy water — said to have wish-fulfilling qualities — or muster the courage to walk through the Tainai Meguri, a lightless underground tunnel that symbolizes the visitor’s journey to enlightenment. This evening, celebrate your Japan adventure at a farewell dinner.

【Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Kembu Masters】

Gain an understanding of kembu, an ancient art form that honours the culture of the Japanese warrior class, the samurai. Watch kembu masters practice this delicate artform and learn for yourself the basic moves of properly using a Japanese sword. It’s said that in feudal times, samurai would perform these traditional routines to build courage and improve concentration, thereby expressing the spirit of the warrior.

【Kiyomizu Temple Visit】

Visit the Kiyomizu Temple, a Buddhist temple in Kyoto and part of Kyoto's UNESCO listed sights. Originally built in 798, the current structures were built in 1633 without the use of a single nail.


Tips:
* Wear your comfortable shoes - today we will get around by public bus, metro and on foot.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Included
Day 11
Kyoto

Kyoto

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

Depart any time.

There are no planned activities today and you are free to depart at any time.


Meal

  • B:Included
  • 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
D3 Tokyo Tower Visit JPY1200.00-3000.00/Person
D8 Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion Visit JPY500.00/Person
D8 Tofukuji Temple Visit JPY500.00-1000.00/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

    • 10-night accommodations
    • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Okinawa Cooking Class, Tokyo
    • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Kembu Masters, Kyoto
    • Your Family Journeys Moment: Traditional Taiko Drumming Class, Tokyo
    • Your Family Journeys Moment: Sumo Wrestling Class, Tokyo
    • Your Foodie Moment: Wasabi Farm Visit, Matsumoto
    • Your Family Journeys Moment: Ramen Making Class, Kyoto
    • Tour of Tokyo including Meiji Jingu Shrine, Asakusa and Harajuku districts
    • Traditional taiko Japanese drumming class
    • Sumo class led by a former wrestler
    • Sleep in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) and enjoy a kaiseki dinner
    • See wild snow monkeys at the Jigokudani Monkey Park
    • Visit the Buddhist temple of Zenkō-ji
    • Visit Matsumoto castle
    • Visit a local wasabi farm
    • Walk through the Nishiki Market and Gion Geisha District with your CEOs
    • Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • Take part in a ramen making class
    • Tour Nara including visits to the Tōdaiji Temple, Kasuga Grand Shrine and the Naramachi district
    • Visit the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
    • Bullet train, express train, local train, ferry, metro, taxi, public bus, walking
    • Group Leader: 2 CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) throughout
    • 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 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. However, at the end of your trip if you felt your two Chief Experience Officers did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline; per CEO $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

    • Itinerary Notes
      Family Journeys are designed for groups traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a child in order to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
      * Prices are based on double occupancy; all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will accommodate triples/quads whenever possible. Please call for further details.
      * There are new Health & Safety Protocols for National Geographic Journeys tours. The up-to-date requirements may change.
      * As we welcome back travellers to exploring the world with National Geographic Journeys, health and safety is a top priority. To promote the well-being of our travellers and staff, we've enhanced our health and safety protocols considering guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other medical experts.
      * Given the continuously changing global health environment, our plans may evolve as we consider new guidance and recommendations from health agencies. We'll update this website with any changes that might affect you. Please check back regularly.
      * We do still recommend that all travellers are fully vaccinated before travelling. The entry requirements of each destination country may differ and local laws will apply. Passengers are responsible for ensuring they meet all applicable entry requirements in effect at the time of travel. All travellers must complete the Self-Screening COVID-19 form prior to joining the trip.
      * It's highly recommended that all travellers, CEOs, drivers and guides wear masks while on tours, in vehicles and crowded spaces, and where physical distancing of 6ft/2m is not possible. All travellers and staff must wear masks where required by local authorities. Travellers must bring their own masks. If you do not have your own masks, your CEO will recommend where to purchase them. You may not be able to fully participate in the tour until you have a mask.
      * Physical distancing between travel parties/households is not required unless mandated by local requirements.
    • 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.
    • Important Notes
      * 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).
      * A Rail pass is not included on this tour.
      * All the tours in Japan use the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains, which have a restriction on maximum luggage size. Any luggage brought on board the train 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. As this tour includes city-to-city luggage transfers, this restriction affects your carry-on luggage on board the train.
      Please note that on all Family Adventures one adult can only accompany up to two minors. If you have over two minors planning on travelling then a second adult will be required to attend.
      * 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 National Geographic Family Journeys with the group trips are accompanied by two of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader 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 and we encourage you to experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Its important to remember, that food may be different from what you are used to at home and that some things may not be available in other countries.
      * Some meals are included in the trip price, while others are not, to allow flexibility and choice to you and your family. For non-included meals our CEOs will still make arrangements for the group to eat together, which allows you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and approximate budget (per person) for meals not included.
      * Throughout this trip, breakfast is included daily (ranging from continental to buffet depending on the trip), as are healthy, local snacks. Tap water is safe and drinkable everywhere. Please remember to bring your own refillable bottle and refill at the start of each day.
      * Note that any special meal requirements or dietary restrictions need to be specified at time of booking.
    • What to Take
      * You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. There is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. Porters may not always be available, so be prepared to carry your own bags (at hotels).
      * It’s essential to pack as lightly as possible for rail travel in Japan. All the tours use the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains, which have a restriction on maximum luggage size.
      * Any luggage brought on board the train 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. As this tour includes city-to-city luggage transfers, this restriction only affects your carry-on luggage on board the train.
      * This tour includes a city-to-city luggage transfer service known as "takuhaibin” in Japan, so you will not have to worry about carrying your large luggage on and off trains as we travel. Please note that you will not have access to your bags during the transfers from city to city, and will not be reunited with your large luggage until the following day. On these days, we recommend using an overnight bag (under 160cm in total) for anything you may need, including valuables.
    • Laundry
      * Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge or ask your CEO where the closest laundromat is. 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 Double applies when two people stay in one standard hotel room respectively.
* Children under 7 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.
Family Journeys are designed for groups traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a child in order to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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.

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    Departure Date:
    Room
    Number of Travelers
    Room 1
    Guest(s)
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    Tours Options
    From USD
    $5799 /person
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    Total USD 0
    $5799 How did we get this total?
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    AUD: A$ 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
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    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.

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