Japan Unrivalled

Japan Unrivalled

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Japan Unrivalled

13 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Osaka, Japan

Visiting: Tokyo, Hakone, Matsumoto, Takayama, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Mount Koya, Osaka

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

JAPN25

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan with the "Japan Unrivalled" tour, a cultural odyssey that takes you from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto. Experience the vibrant energy of Tokyo, explore the historic beauty of Matsumoto's 'Black Crow' castle, and soak in the tranquility of Takayama's Edo-era architecture. Marvel at the poignant history of Hiroshima and the spiritual serenity of Mount Koya. Travel in style on the Shinkansen bullet train and enjoy a mix of accommodations, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Delight in unique experiences like dining on robot-served meals and visiting iconic sites such as the Fushimi Inari Shrine and the Great Torii Gate on Miyajima Island. This tour promises a rich tapestry of Japan's past and present, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Highlights

  • Tokyo: Explore the vibrant city with highlights like Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple, Meiji Temple, Harajuku, and the iconic Shibuya Crossing.

  • Hakone: Experience the stunning views of Mount Fuji and enjoy an exhilarating cable car ride in this beautiful mountain town.

  • Matsumoto: Visit the impressive 'Black Crow' castle, a national treasure surrounded by cherry trees and an Alpine backdrop.

  • Takayama: Discover the charm of ancient Japan with the wooden 'Edo' buildings in this picturesque town.

  • Hiroshima: Reflect on history at the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum, and visit the tranquil Miyajima Island with its famous Great Torii Gate.

  • Kyoto: Immerse yourself in the cultural hub of Japan with tea houses, Nijo Castle, The Golden Pavilion, and the enchanting Gion area.

  • Koyasan: Participate in a spiritual ceremony and experience a stay at a Buddhist temple on Mount Koya.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

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: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we'll bounce out of bed ready and raring to uncover Tokyo. The ancient Buddhist temple of Asakusa Senso-ji & the Meiji Jingu shrine are just some of the doors we will open to this city. If history and religion don't get you going, the wild fashion of Harajuku & the shopping district of Nakamise Street might see you more wide-eyed. Or perhaps your idea of fun is to take to the streets of Shibuya, attempting to cross the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world.

Day 3: Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)

Today is yours to take on Tokyo your way. Luckily, there's no end to what you can do here. Check out the anime and electronics packed buildings of Akihabara. Marvel at the beautiful Ueno Park. Or how about tasting some Japanese food, served by remote-controlled robots (!).

Day 4: Tokyo To Isawa Via Hakone

Location: Hakone

Accommodation Name: Ryokan Special Stay

Meals Included: Dinner

Before we leg it out of Japan's capital we have some very serious business to tend to - a guided tour of famous Tsukiji - the world's largest and busiest fish market. Here, why not opt to learn the art of sushi making, or just kick back in one of the markets sushi bars and soak in the atmosphere. Our first overland journey takes us south to Hakone, completely removing us from Tokyo's fast city pace. We will take in Japanese mountain vistas from the Hakone Ropeway & spend the night in a traditional guesthouse where we'll be treated to some local Japanese hospitality.  It's time to pamper ourselves! Check-in at our super chill Ryokan special stay, soak in those healing hot springs, and chillax. Tonight's dinner is a feast of flavors - Japanese kaiseki style!

Day 5: Isawa To Takayama Via Matsumoto

Location: Matsumoto

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Takayama Green Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Waving our supremely hospitable hosts goodbye, we’ll hit the road in search of a long valley amidst the Japanese mountains. Romantic, right? Mountainside city escape. Welcome to Matsumoto, nestled beside Japan’s highest mountain range – the Hida Mountains. Famous for its samurai history and thriving foodie scene, this one will have you taking snaps at every turn. Tonight is yours to explore as you wish, but we have an inkling you won't want to miss the mouthwatering hida beef for dinner.

Day 6: Takayama

Location: Takayama

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Takayama Green Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dark wooden buildings, Kanji signs & surrounding hillsides will see us totally taken by Takayama. Grab a bike and take a cycle, then unwind from it all with a Japanese footbath. Relaxation stations. After a full day of exploring and ogling at the Japanese countryside, it’s perfectly acceptable to crash out in Takayama.

Day 7: Takayama To Hiroshima

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

In usual circumstances we'd be quite sad to be leaving the soul-stirring town of Takayama, but with the bullet train experience whizzing us to Hiroshima it's hard not to get excited.  We did it! We travelled on land at a casual 320 kilometers per hour on the Shinkansen - the world's fastest train. That's a big old tick off the Japan bucket list. Hiroshima is yours this afternoon to explore your way.

Day 8: Hiroshima (Including Miyajima)

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)

A morning of reflection. The site of the world’s first nuclear bombing, Hiroshima has now been declared a City of Peace. Our day here will be one of learning as we take in the tragic recounts of World War II at the Peace Memorial Museum. A gateway island. We’ll take a detour to the tranquil isle of Miyajima, where you’ll get a spellbinding view of the giant orange Great Torii Gate (you know the one, even if you don’t.) Expect forests, temples, roaming deer and much more... …and dinner! We’ll end our day in Hiroshima with more excitement to follow tomorrow.

Day 9: Hiroshima To Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Kyoto (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

With 3 more destinations left to uncover on the Japanese map, we hit the road this morning and leave the historical metropolis of Hiroshima behind.  Welcome to the culture hub of Japan. Geisha girls, artfully manicured gardens, shrines & temples aplenty - looks like we're in Kyoto! We won't  waste a minute peeling back this city's layers, taking you to Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle & the Gion Area with our guide. You'll also have plenty of free time to check the place out any old way you please, and go on the lookout for glamorous geishas. If that means wearing a kimono and platforms, we're right here to applaud you.

Day 10: Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Kyoto (or similar)

So what's up next? How about checking out the Fushimi Inari Shrine? Approx 233 metres above sea level, the journey to the shrine begins at the base of the mountain. This afternoon is free for you to explore the sights of Kyoto.

Day 11: Kyoto To Mount Koya

Location: Mount Koya

Accommodation Name: Henjoko-in Wakayama (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a slow and leisurely morning in Kyoto to get in the zen frame of mind for what lies ahead. On the train we make tracks for Mt Koya. You would think that by this stage of the trip all the phenomenal moments might be behind us. Oh how wrong you would be. Tonight we stay in a Buddhist guesthouse, eating traditional food and savouring the mindfulness & beauty of this incredible experience. For those looking for a digital detox amongst nature, it doesn't get better than this.

Day 12: Mount Koya To Osaka

Location: Osaka

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Elcient Osaka (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's our last full day of the trip - make the most of it by rising early this morning and partaking in the tradition of an early morning Buddhist service. A Local Guide will then walk us through the beauty of the Koyasan area and centuries old cemetery before we move on to our last destination. For those who have stepped out of their quiet zone from the morning of serenity, it will be time to relish in Osaka and take on the traditional Japanese pastime of Karaoke. A couple of Asahis or Sakes - you know, for tradition - should stimulate your bravery.

Day 13: Osaka

Location: Osaka

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today our Japanese fairytale comes to an end. Whilst we'll be crying silent (or not so silent) tears, our life-lasting memories, army of new friends and deep appreciation for Japan will be enough to keep the smiles on our faces. Sayōnara, globe trotters!

What's Included

  • Dine on Food Served by Robots

    Experience dining with food served by robots.

  • Visit Tsukiji Fish Market

    Explore the world-famous Tsukiji Fish Market.

  • Kaiseki Dinner

    Enjoy a traditional Japanese Kaiseki dinner.

  • Visit Matsumoto Castle

    Tour the historic Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure.

  • See the Itsukushima Shrine & Miyajima Island

    Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and explore Miyajima Island.

  • See Fushimi Inari Shrine

    Explore the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic torii gates.

  • Travel through Japan using a mix of transportation

    Travel through Japan using guided tours, overland journeys, the Hakone Ropeway, and the Shinkansen bullet train.

  • Accommodation

    Stay in a variety of accommodations including the Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel in Tokyo, a traditional guesthouse in Hakone, the Takayama Green Hotel, Hotel Vista Hiroshima, New Hankyu Hotel Kyoto, Henjoko-in Wakayama, and New Hankyu Hotel Osaka.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Tours and Activities

    Optional tours and activities are not included in the package.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Japan are not included.

  • Visa

    Visa fees and arrangements are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 8 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Dinner (D)

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 kind of luggage should I bring? What are restrictions? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights on this trip.You’ll travel between a few destinations via the Shinkansen (bullet train), and won’t have your main luggage because of the space restrictions. But there’s no need to worry, because we’ll send everything forward to the next hotel via truck.In Hiroshima and Mt Koya, you’ll need to bring an overnight bag since you won’t have your main luggage with you. Your Trip Manager will advise you about what you should bring for each day.
  • Nara: Can bullet train tickets be used at a later date? Starstruck by the Shinkansen? Same. All bullet train tickets are one-use-only tickets (and not passes). So, you won’t be able to use them after the trip has concluded.
  • Nara: Will I be given a Japan Rail (JR) Pass? A Japan Rail Pass can be quite handy while travelling in Japan. But since we’ve got you covered for the transport, you won’t need a Japan Rail Pass. You’re always welcome to ask your Trip Manager where you can buy one once the trip ends.
  • Nara: Is Street Kart or Mario Kart available as an optional activity? Currently, Street Kart or Mario Kart aren’t offered on any Contiki trip. Who knows what the future holds, though?

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.
  • Tokyo: Heads up seafood fans! Check out the weird and wonderful fish at this bustling market.
  • Hakone: Tour this beautiful mountain town, famed for its views of Mount Fuji. And get your kicks on the epic cable car ride.
  • Hakone: Nothing beats sitting down to enjoy a slap up meal. This is portion after portion of authentic Japanese cuisine at its finest.
  • Matsumoto: The towering ‘Black Crow’ castle is a national treasure. It looks like nothing short of a Samurai castle with its cherry trees (that blossom during spring!) and Alpine backdrop.
  • Takayama: The wooden ‘Edo’ buildings of Takayama really capture the vibe of ancient Japan.
  • Hiroshima: This way to amazing! These are the sites you always see in those impossibly tranquil pictures of Japan. IRL.
  • Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum to commemorate the lives lost after the atomic bomb was dropped on the city.
  • 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.
  • Koyasan: Take off your shoes, enter the golden doors and marvel at the wonders. Then chill in the rock garden. And breathe...
  • Koyasan: Think sleepover but at a Buddhist temple! Take a sneak-peek into the lives of monks in this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Every penny we spend to stay at the Shukubo helps preserve ancient traditions that are in decline. Who knew you could do so much good by simply taking time to relax?
  • Koyasan: Start your journey towards enlightenment at this spiritual ceremony in Mount Koya. And breathe…

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation will be used during the tour?

    The tour will use a mix of transportation including guided tours, overland journeys, the Hakone Ropeway, and the Shinkansen bullet train.

  • What kind of accommodations can I expect on this tour?

    You will stay in a variety of accommodations including the Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel in Tokyo, a traditional guesthouse in Hakone, the Takayama Green Hotel, Hotel Vista Hiroshima, New Hankyu Hotel Kyoto, Henjoko-in Wakayama, and New Hankyu Hotel Osaka.

  • Are there any unique dining experiences included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes unique dining experiences such as dining on food served by robots and enjoying a traditional Japanese kaiseki dinner.

  • Will I have the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes experiences such as staying in a Buddhist guesthouse in Mount Koya, participating in a spiritual ceremony, and exploring traditional areas like the Gion Area in Kyoto.

  • Is there a luggage restriction for the tour?

    Yes, you can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm with a max weight of 20kg, plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on. Main luggage will be sent forward to the next hotel via truck due to space restrictions on the Shinkansen.

  • Will I need a Japan Rail Pass for this tour?

    No, you will not need a Japan Rail Pass as the tour covers all necessary transport. However, you can ask your Trip Manager where to buy one after the trip ends if you wish to explore further.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • 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.

  • 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

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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