Japan in a Week
Japan in a Week
Japan in a Week
8 Days Starting in Tokyo and ending in Osaka
Visiting: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka
Tour Overview
Kon'nichiwa Japan! We may only have a week, but what a week it is. Starting in the orchestra of light, sound and history that is Tokyo, we'll get locally guided tours of temples and palaces before whizzing to Kyoto via a bullet train. Here, we'll walk through zen gardens, explore mystical temples and spot Geishas before taking the short trip to Osaka, where we'll have plenty of time to nip to Universal Studios or simply eat our way around the local street food stalls. Filled with a dazzling fusion of modern spectacle and ancient charm, this trip is the best way to see Japan in a week.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Kon'nichiwa Tokyo! Welcome to this dazzling orchestra of light, sound and intersecting subway lines. This is the city where the future fuses with the past in the most fascinating way possible, and we'll have a free evening to bond, explore and soak it all in.
Day 2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Today we'll get ready to uncover Tokyo, starting with the ancient Buddhist temple of Asakusa Senso-ji & the famous Meiji Jingu shrine. You'll have the chance to discover the wild fashion of Harajuku & the shopping district of Nakamise Street, or take to the streets of Shibuya for an attempt to cross the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world.
Day 3: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Today is yours to do Tokyo your way. Anime fan? Check out Akihabara, the ultimate anime & gaming district. Looking for something uniquely Japanese? Go on a date with a giant plush toy at the Moomin cafe, eat a kawaii lunch (like a curry shaped like a pink teddy bear), or check out Ueno Park for the museums and monuments. It's our last evening in Tokyo, so it's also the perfect time to check out some of the traditional bars at the Izakaya Alleys for a sip of sake or head to a cafe where you're served by robots! (In true Japanese fashion).
Day 4: Tokyo To Kyoto
Location: Tokyo, Kyoto
Accommodation: New Hankyu Hotel Kyoto (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Kyoto (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today it's time to take that famous example of Japanese efficiency, the aptly named bullet train. Our train will whizz us past the iconic Mount Fuji, of which we'll hopefully grab a glimpse, before heading for the zen gardens and teahouses of Kyoto. We'll waste no time with a sightseeing tour, exploring this glorious showcase of ancient Japan.
Day 5: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: New Hankyu Hotel Kyoto (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Kyoto (or similar)
Today is yours to walk the sublime gardens, explore mystical temples and marvel at the architecture of this unforgettable city. We recommend taking the opportunity for a half-day trip to Nara, where you'll find the towering 8th century Great Buddha, as well as numerous examples of beautiful shrines and temples, alongside the roaming, slightly cheeky deer.
Day 6: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: New Hankyu Hotel Kyoto (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Kyoto (or similar)
There is still so much to see in Kyoto today. Don a kimono and check out the bamboo forest, take some photos at the iconic Yasaka Pagoda or spot Geishas in the Gion district.
Day 7: Kyoto To Osaka
Location: Kyoto, Osaka
Accommodation: Osaka Daiichi Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Osaka (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's just a short trip to Osaka this morning... And we have the whole day to explore. There's plenty of time to fit in Universal Studios, Osaka castle or simply wander down Dontonburi tasting all of the delicious street food. Opt for the Izakaya dinner tonight for one last family meal before our sad goodbyes tomorrow.
Day 8: Osaka
Location: Osaka
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our trip ends after breakfast in Osaka today. We'll say farewell to Japan & our new friends, but the memories we made here will stick with us forever.
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 nights in Hotels included.
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Fully Guided
3 Breakfasts included.
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Meals
Expert Trip Manager + Local Guides is available on this tour.
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Transport
Bullet Train and Local Train included.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
Flights to and from Japan are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended.
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Meals
Not all meals are covered.
Please refer to the itinerary for specific meals included. -
Personal Expenses
Expenses for personal nature such as souvenirs, laundry, and other personal items are not included.
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Optional Activities
Costs for optional activities are not included and must be paid separately.
Dining Summary
- 3 Breakfast (B)
FAQs
- Nara: Do I need a visa to enter Japan? Generally, not. Most of our travellers can get a visa on arrival in Japan. But your visa requirements can change according to your citizenship (and also according to the length and purpose of your visit). We always recommend that you check out our visa guide for more information.
- Nara: What is the currency used in Japan? The currency (that can buy you some unbeatable authentic sushi) in Japan is the Japanese Yen (¥).
- Tokyo: How do I make my way to the starting point? Are transfers included? This will depend on which city you arrive at.TokyoTokyo is serviced by two major international airports, Narita and Haneda. You’re welcome to take a taxi to the hotel, but these tend to be quite expensive. That’s why, the best way to reach our hotel is by train. You can purchase tickets from the counter at the airport. And the journey will take you 1-2 hours.Osaka The Kansai International Airport in Osaka is around 45 minutes away from our hotel by bus. And the best way to get there is by bus, that’ll drop you off close to our hotel. You can get your tickets at the counter. We don’t recommend getting a taxi since they tend to be quite expensive.
- Nara: What is the best time of year to visit Japan? Japan sure is magical all year round, but the best time to visit will depend on what you’re looking for. Want to spot Mt Fuji? Head to Japan in June/July – and hang around for the firework festivals too. Wanna experience Japan's winter vibes and even hit some of the spectacular ski spots? Book our Japan Winter Wonder trip between November - March. April to May is when you’ll catch the cherry blossoms, and autumn (August - November) is a great time for colourful leaves and cooler weather.
- Nara: What should I wear in Japan? Dress for comfort first! As a traveller here, you’ll be most comfortable in loose-fitted clothes, made from a light and breathable fabric. Winter in Japan can be as cool as 1-7°C, so you may want to bring some warm clothes if you’re here between October and April.
- Nara: What is the tipping culture in Japan? Tipping in Japan is generally not accepted. Although it’s slowly becoming more common within the tourism industry, tipping isn’t much of a custom in Japan. In lots of restaurants, you’ll pay upfront before you eat and won’t be expected to leave a tip as you leave – Japanese hospitality workers are even known to turn tips down. The same goes for bus and taxi rides. In shops, you may be given your change using a tray, but this isn’t an indication to leave a tip (as it might be in other countries).
- Nara: How much spending money do I need for one week in Japan? When you travel with Contiki, your accommodation, in-country transport, and some breakfasts are included with the cost of your trip – so when it comes to budgeting, you only need to worry about how much shopping you’ll do in Tokyo! Average prices for Japan include:Museum tickets: ¥1,000 - ¥2,000 ($7 - $15) Sushi meal: ¥2,500 ($19) Noodles/Ramen meal: ¥600 - ¥1,200 ($4 - $9) For a rough estimate, we’d recommend budgeting a minimum of $80USD per day.But please remember that these prices subject to change!
- Nara: Are service charges included in the bill at restaurants in Japan? Even though tipping is rare in Japan, it is common for a restaurant to add a service charge to your bill. This will usually be to the value of 10-15%, and you’ll find that it’s issued on arrival. I.e. served with your appetiser.
Included Experience
- Tokyo: Check out the Sensoji Temple, one of the most significant temples in Japan, decked with a 5-storey pagoda. Don't forget to snap a pic under the giant red lantern!
- Tokyo: Get a piece of Japan to take back home from one of the many little stalls here on Nakamise Street, just a short walk from the Sensoji Temple.
- Tokyo: Visit this Shinto shrine in Shibuya, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. You'll have the chance to wander through a tranquil forest, passing under the world-famous Tori Gate. And ofc, stop for a picture in front of the many colourful Sake barrels, and make a wish at the sacred Camphor tree.
- Tokyo: Get ready for a riot of colour and vibrant fashion. This was (and still is) a home for Japanese fashion. Grab a vintage bag, a pair of sneakers or a kawaii outfit. And don't get us started on the food! You'll find rainbow cotton candy, candy covered strawberries or a rainbow cheese sandwich.
- Tokyo: It's only the biggest pedestrian intersection in the world! Come watch the world go by (and grab an iconic picture) on the crossing.
- Kyoto: Tea houses. Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The Golden Pavilion. Geishas. It’s all so surreal. You’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a film set.
- Kyoto: Walk through the endless path of orange torii gates, kindly ask Inari for good luck and then you might want to sample a fortune cookie.
Check out our Q&As
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What are the highlights of the Japan in a Week tour?
The highlights of the Japan in a Week tour include visiting Tokyo's Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple, Meiji Temple, Harajuku, and the Shibuya Crossing; exploring Kyoto's tea houses, Nijo Castle, the Golden Pavilion, meeting Geishas, and walking through the endless path of orange torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine; experiencing Japan's bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto; discovering the ancient Buddhist temple of Asakusa Senso-ji and the famous Meiji Jingu shrine in Tokyo; taking a half-day trip to Nara from Kyoto to see the 8th century Great Buddha; and exploring Osaka with options to visit Universal Studios, Osaka Castle, or taste delicious street food in Dontonburi.
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What is not included in the Japan in a Week tour?
The Japan in a Week tour does not include international flights, travel insurance, all meals (please refer to the itinerary for specific meals included), expenses of personal nature such as souvenirs, laundry, and other personal items, and costs for optional activities which must be paid separately.
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What cities does the Japan in a Week tour start and end in?
The Japan in a Week tour starts in Tokyo and ends in Osaka.
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Are there any meals included in the Japan in a Week tour?
Yes, there are meals included in the Japan in a Week tour, specifically on the journey from Tokyo to Kyoto and on the last day in Osaka. Please refer to the itinerary for specific meals included.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 60 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.