Legend of Japan - 12 Day Trip
Legend of Japan - 12 Day Trip
Legend of Japan - 12 Day Trip
12 Days Starting and ending in Tokyo, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Osaka, Koyasan, Kyoto, Hakone
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25798
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 20
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Legend of Japan" tour, a cultural odyssey through the Land of the Rising Sun. Begin your journey in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, where you'll explore iconic sites like Senso-Ji Temple and the vibrant Shinjuku district. Master the art of sushi making and delve into the world of samurai with a traditional Kendo class. Marvel at the serene beauty of Kyoto's Kinkaku-Ji Golden Temple and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Experience the spiritual tranquility of a temple stay in Koyasan, complete with a Morning Prayer and Fire Ceremony. Discover the historic Osaka Castle and the lively streets of Dotonbori. Conclude your adventure with breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and a unique pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi. Navigate Japan like a local using public transportation, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Japanese culture on this unforgettable journey.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hostel
The legend of Japan - It’s in the name and where better to start our adventure than Tokyo! Tokyo is the largest metropolitan in the world and home to the most top-rated restaurants in Japan, so it's time to explore! Check-in at the hostel, chillax, and in the evening, we'll meet up with your new TruFam to see this stunning city by night. We'll head to Shinjuku; neon lights are shining, the city is buzzing and alive so let's head out. Shinjuku is known for its quirky bars and wild party scene, so be sure to pack your dancing shoes, your favourite shit shirt and a positive attitude. It's going to be a night to remember!
Day 2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hostel
Rise and shine, we're off exploring Tokyo! Picture this, jaw-dropping architecture, rich history and life-changing experiences. Where are you? We head to the world-famous Senso-Ji temple, Tokyo's oldest temple, and a mirage of jaw-dropping bright red architecture surrounds us. Get that pen out; you're putting ticks on that bucket list! We’ll be travelling via train for the majority of our sightseeing so grab your maps and get to know the local area. Have you ever been anywhere cooler than Japan? We'll answer for you... Absolutely not! We'll explore Akihabara, the electric town, a perfect visit for anime lovers and gamers. If that doesn't tickle your fancy, take a walk around town, devour some delicious street food like takoyaki or yakisoba. They're 10/10 a must try btw. Then we head back and get ready for a night on the town TruFam Japan style & for a Sake tasting experience!
Day 3: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hostel
Meals Included: Lunch
In the morning we’ll pack up our bags and get ready for tomorrow's travel day! We'll also do some more exploring of Tokyo and discover some hidden spots. We'll even tick off Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken, a visit to Meiji Shrine is a must-visit in Tokyo and dates back to over 100 years ago. Grab your photos, marvel at this beautiful place and its incredible height as we take a walk through our magical surroundings. We'll then head over to the beautiful Yoyogi Park & Explore Harujuku, the famous shopping neighbourhood. In the evening, we'll head out for dinner and drinks and see where the buzzing nightlife takes us! Tomorrow morning, we're travelling at the speed of light. You know the world-famous bullet train? That's right we don't do average.
Day 4: Tokyo/Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation Name: hotel
Today we're bidding farewell to Tokyo. It's been insaaaaane, but it's time to head to our next destination. Osaka! We catch the bullet train; we spend the morning zooming through the scenic views, updating our Instagram feed and playing snap with the TruFam. The bullet train is an experience in itself so sit back and enjoy! We've got a big few days ahead! We arrive in Osaka and head to Osaka Castle, originally completed in 1586 as a display of power and grandeur by the samurai warlord and ruler of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi; Osaka Castle is the most famous attraction in Osaka and spans over 15 acres. So it's a big day out, and the pictures are postcard-worthy. Next up, we explore neon street. Fluorescent pinks, yellows and neon greens surround us. Sparkling lights, bustling streets and huge 3D signs, we're in Dotonbori, to be precise! We take a walking tour and explore this sensational city and learn the story behind it. In the evening, we hit the town! We hope you're hungry as we try out some delicious street food before sipping every colourful cocktail insight. Neon street = neon cocktails, right? Pass us a blue lagoon!
Day 5: Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation Name: hotel
Rise and shine! Spend the morning exploring Osaka before you try your hand at sushi making... It's harder than you think! We'll be getting creative in the kitchen this morning and, of course, every good chef must taste their work, so lunch will be a selection of our best dishes. We'll then spend the evening checking out all the sights before ehading for some delicious dinner!
Day 6: Osaka/Kōyasan
Location: Koyasan
Accommodation Name: traditional Japanese temple
Meals Included: Dinner
Grab a coffee; we're heading to Koyasan! We'll take a local train, a cable train and bus to get to our next stop. Our accommodation for tonight? A traditional Japanese temple. You know how we do. We said this trip would be legendary. All food is included, so indulge yourself courtesy of yours Tru-ly, the food here is all vegetarian but trust us it’s lovely. Whilst staying at the temple, get ready to be immersed in the local culture & the temple’s rules for a Tru authentic experience. We head out to explore the local temples before sitting down for a traditional dinner together as TruFam. In the evening, we're taking a walking tour of the oldest cemetery in Japan. Read that again. The. Oldest. Cemetery. In. Japan. Grab the hand of your new BFF and get ready to learn the stories and history of the cemetery. Dw, it's more peaceful than scary!
Day 7: Kōyasan/Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Did you sleep ok? Course you did; last night wasn't that spooky! Today we're picking up the heat... No, seriously, we're kickstarting today with a traditional fire ceremony. A truly unforgettable experience and will have you feeling completely zen afterwards! Goma taki involves writing down your wishes on wooden plates and placing them into the fire. This is believed to burn away their excess wishes and desires to achieve a simple, appreciative life. The fire is thought to destroy negative energies and purify the mind, body and spirit. We're then heading to our next stop, Kyoto! Before we head off, we have a traditional breakfast and visit a local temple for morning prayer and to learn more about this beautiful culture. In the late morning, we head to the bustling town of Kyoto! Home to the world-famous Gion - the Geisha district! Filled with shops, restaurants and ochaya (teahouses), where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) entertain, Gion is a fairytale destination. An incredible experience. We walk the beautiful, vibrant streets before heading for a traditional tea ceremony in the afternoon. We walk along Kamagowa river in the evening, sip beer, and watch the sun gown down on another extraordinary day.
Day 8: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake and let’s go! First stop, Kinkaku-Ji Golden Temple! No, you're not dreaming; this magnificent two-story temple is covered in gold leaf. Kinkakuji was built to echo the extravagant wealthy circles of Kyoto during Yoshimitsu's time and today stands as a zen temple; with its glistening gold features, travellers come from all over the world to see it. We spend the morning absorbing our serene surroundings. Whilst we're talking of zen... We're heading to the most peaceful, jaw-dropping paradise of emerald green beauty. Did you guess it? It's Arashiyama Bamboo forest! We walk the tranquil, worldly walkway through the soaring bamboo grove. No picture can do it justice, but hey, you can try, plus we guarantee you 50+ likes on the gram with these views. The afternoon is free for us to explore, so we see where the day takes us and get a feel for the night's plan! May we suggest visiting Nara or renting a bike and exploring the backstreets of Kyoto. It’s up to you TruFam!
Day 9: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
If you thought yesterday was epic, wait till you experience TODAY. Temples & Samurai. That's what we're talking about! We're diving deep into the Tru Japan as we head to Kyoto's famous temple of red gates - Fushimi-Inari. You may not have heard of it, but you've definitely seen it. Renowned for its thousands of red torii gates, Fushimi-Inari is incredible to behold, so we take a walk around! Afterwards, we head to the main event. Perhaps, the coolest experience of your lifetime? We're taking a Samurai class! We're going in full Samurai mode, that's right, we're getting dressed up. Robes and everything! Enjoy a demonstration from the warriors before practicing the basics and learning a variety of moves with the sword! It's just like slicing and dicing Sushi you learnt earlier... Sort of?
Day 10: Kyoto/Hakone
Location: Hakone
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise and shine, TruTravellers, we hope you dreamt of slicing, dicing and living your best Samurai warrior life after yesterday's adventure, either that or you're feeling ok after too much sake last night. Today we have a chilled morning before heading to Hakone. Once we arrive, we're heading for views on views on viewsssss. We take the ropeway cable cart for panoramic views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji. When we get to Lake Ashi it's time to grab your eye patch and parrot as we're off to board and explore a priate ship. Grab your cameras it's going to be a good'en! Mount Fuji is one of the most notable symbols of Japan, and boy, is it stunning! The views are breathtaking, covered with glistening white snow and lined with misty clouds. Then we are headed back to Tokyo for some more exploring and a final group evening together!
Day 11: Hakone/Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Yesterday was a jam-packed day so today we're taking it easy. We'll grab some breakfast before making our way back to Tokyo for some more exploring and a final group evening together!
Day 12: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
All good things must come to an end and today’s the last day of our legendary trip, so have a chilled morning before checkout. Your travel ninja is on hand for any onward travel plans you may have and if you're still looking to explore and sightsee this incredible country. It's been an experience, a Tru-ly unforgettable one. You're a part of the TruFam now, which means you're TruFam for life, so it's not goodbye. It’s see you later. MATA NE! That's Japanese for Later btw!
What's Included
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Meals
2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner -
Sushi Making Class
Participate in a Sushi Making Class to learn the art of making this traditional Japanese dish.
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Bamboo Forest
Visit the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto.
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Fushimi-Inari Red Temple
Explore the famous Fushimi-Inari Red Temple with its thousands of red torii gates.
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Samurai Experience
Experience a traditional Kendo Class and learn the way of the samurai.
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Mt. Fuji Viewpoint
Marvel at the majestic Mt. Fuji from a unique viewpoint.
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Pirate Ship Cruise
Enjoy a unique Pirate Ship Cruise on Lake Ashi.
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Meiji Shrine & Walking Tour
Visit the Meiji Shrine and enjoy a walking tour.
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Senso-Ji Temple
Explore the iconic Senso-Ji Temple in Tokyo.
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Morning Prayer at Local Temple
Participate in a Morning Prayer at a traditional Japanese temple.
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Osaka Castle
Explore the historic Osaka Castle.
What's Not Included
Airport transfers are not included, allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Meals Included
2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Accommodation
Experience authentic Japanese culture with a stay in a traditional temple in Koyasan, where you'll participate in a morning prayer and fire ceremony. Enjoy the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene and spiritual atmosphere of this historic location.
Mode of Transport
Navigate Japan like a local with an array of public transportation options including the public metro, express trains, and the iconic bullet train. Airport transfers are not included, ensuring you have the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses an array of public transportation options including the public metro, express trains, and the iconic bullet train. However, airport transfers are not included, allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
During the tour, you will stay in a variety of accommodations including a traditional Japanese temple in Koyasan where you can participate in a morning prayer and fire ceremony.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner. While staying at the temple in Koyasan, all food is included and is vegetarian.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, the minimum age requirement for this tour is 18 years.
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of cultural experiences such as a sushi making class, a traditional Kendo class, a Gion Geisha District walking tour and tea ceremony, and a stay in a traditional Japanese temple with a morning prayer and fire ceremony.
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What activities are planned in Kyoto?
In Kyoto, you will visit the Kinkaku-Ji Golden Temple, explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, participate in a Gion Geisha District walking tour and tea ceremony, and experience a Samurai class.
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What can I expect from the temple stay in Koyasan?
During the temple stay in Koyasan, you will be immersed in local culture and temple rules for an authentic experience. You will participate in a morning prayer and a traditional fire ceremony, and all meals provided will be vegetarian.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
No problem! You can change the date of your trip once free of charge as long as you do so more than 60 days prior to departure.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2012!
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We have a 'my own room' option which can be added on at additional cost.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
We will send you out a pre departure pack 30 days prior to travel containing everything you need to know, and your joining instructions.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
We plant 10 trees for every trip sold!
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The majority of our travellers are in their 20's / 30's however we aim to accept anyone of any age. Please do not be offended if we discuss the make-up of the trip with you prior to booking just to ensure you will be comfortable with the average age range that is already booked to travel.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It may be possible in certain destinations, however it would be your responsibility to get yourself to where the group currently is.
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Do you have age limits for your tours?
Most of the people that join us on tour are 18 to thirtysomethings. We have no strict upper age limit on our tours but all of our tours are specifically designed for those of this age group which is worth noting. Please do not be offended if we discuss the make-up of the trip with you prior to booking just to ensure you will be comfortable with the average age range that is already booked to travel.
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Free Date Changes
TruTravels allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
TruTravels requires a minimum deposit of 280 USD 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 trutravels charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions