Tour overview
Start in Osaka and end in Tokyo! With the in-depth cultural tour Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo, you have a 9 day tour package taking you through Osaka, Japan and 6 other destinations in Japan. Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more.
Introduction
From the Buddhist monks of Kōyasan to the high rollers of Tokyo, see the many faces of Japan on this condensed tour beginning in Osaka. Savour the region’s culinary delicacies and the beautiful views at Mt Fuji. You'll stay in a traditional ryokan and really soak up local culture in onsen hot springs. A great combination of the traditional and the contemporary, this adventure provides a taste of the rich culture of Japan.
Day 1: Osaka
We highly recommend booking pre-accommodation to fully experience this lively city.
Accommodation:
- Ibis Styles Osaka (or similar).
Included Activities:
- Meet Your CEO and Group
Day 2: Osaka/Kōyasan (1B, 1D)
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.
Accommodation:
- Ekoin Monastery (or similar).
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Transport:
- Train 03:00 Hr(s)
Included Activities:
- Overnight in Mount Kōya Temple
- Oku-no-in Cemetery Visit
Day 3: Kōyasan/Hiroshima (1B)
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.
Accommodation:
- Hotel New Hiroden (or similar).
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Transport:
- Bullet train: Kōyasan to Hiroshima 05:00 Hr(s)
Included Activities:
- Hiroshima Park and Peace Memorial
Day 4: Hiroshima
Take a ferry ride over to the sacred island of Miyajima to see the famous floating Torii Gate. Opt to hike around Mt Misen.
Accommodation:
- Hotel New Hiroden (or similar).
Transport:
- Ferry: Hiroshima to Miyajima
Included Activities:
- Miyajima Island Visit
Additional Notes: Please note the floating Torii Gate will be under construction from June 2019 to August 2020.
Day 5: Hiroshima/Kyoto
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.
Accommodation:
- The b Kyoto Sanjo (or similar).
Transport:
- Bullet train: Hiroshima to Kyoto 01:30 - 02:00 Hr(s)
Included Activities:
- Gion Walk
- Nijo Castle and Gardens Visit
Additional Notes: 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.
Day 6: Kyoto
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.
Accommodation:
- The b Kyoto Sanjo (or similar).
Included Activities:
- Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Visit
Day 7: Kyoto/Hakone (1D)
Travel to Hakone, a town in the hills famous for its onsens, or natural hot springs. Stay in a traditional ryokan, with its own private onsen.
In the evening, enjoy the ryokan, savouring a complex meal of traditional Japanese foods, followed by a recommended soak in the onsen.
Accommodation:
- Hakone Pax Yoshino (or similar).
Meals Included:
- Dinner
Transport:
- Bullet train: Kyoto to Odawara 03:00 Hr(s)
- Local bus: Odawara to Hakone 00:30 Hr(s)
Included Activities:
- Lake Ashino-ko Boat Ride
- Traditional Ryokan Stay with Kaiseki Meal
Day 8: Hakone/Tokyo (1B)
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.
Accommodation:
- The B Ikebukuro Tokyo (or similar).
Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Transport:
- Bullet train: Hakone to Tokyo 02:00 Hr(s)
Day 9: Tokyo
Depart at any time.
Additional Notes: We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to fully experience this vibrant city.
