Self-Guided Japanese Adventure - Superior

Self-Guided Japanese Adventure - Superior

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Self-Guided Japanese Adventure - Superior

11 Days

Visiting: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Osaka, UK/Ireland

Tour operator:

Exoticca

Group size:

1 - 9

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Interests:

Cultural, History, Rail Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on a self-guided Japanese adventure that combines the modernity of Tokyo, the historical charm of Kyoto, and the vibrant culture of Osaka. This superior tour offers an immersive experience into Japan's rich history, iconic sights, and breathtaking landscapes. Begin your journey with a night on board, preparing for the dazzling metropolis of Tokyo, where tradition meets futuristic. Explore the city's contrasts, from the historic Asakusa district to the towering Tokyo Skytree. Marvel at the majestic Mount Fuji and experience the serene beauty of Lake Ashi. The adventure continues as you board a bullet train to Kyoto, once the imperial capital, where ancient temples and the famous Arashiyama bamboo forest await. Conclude your journey in Osaka, known for its dynamic food scene and the majestic Osaka Castle. This tour is perfect for those who seek to explore Japan at their own pace, with a blend of guided excursions and ample free time to discover the hidden gems of each city.

Highlights

  • Explore the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, rich in history and tradition

  • Discover the iconic Mount Fuji and experience breathtaking views from above the clouds

  • Wander through the historic streets of Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan

  • Visit the emblematic red gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto

  • Admire the golden splendor of Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

  • Stroll through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto

  • Experience the vibrant city life of Osaka and its famous street food markets

  • Learn about the history of Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Uk/Ireland - Night On Board

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Monterey Akasaka

Prepare for an unforgettable journey across Japan, exploring its natural wonders and ancient traditions! Arrive at your departure airport, ready for a flight* to Tokyo. Night on board.

* If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2 : Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Monterey Akasaka

Arrive in Tokyo, a dazzling metropolis rich in history and tradition. You will be met at the airport by our representative who will talk you through your itinerary, deliver your travel documents, provide helpful information and recommendations for your free time and assist you with your self-transfer to the hotel. Once settled at the hotel, the rest of the day is free to start discovering this exciting city of contrasts and its delicious cuisine. We recommend heading to one of the many food markets where you can sample lots of different dishes at bargain prices! Overnight stay in Tokyo.

Day 3 : Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Monterey Akasaka

Meals Included: Lunch

Today, take a full-day tour of the city of Tokyo by bus including the most important sights in the city. Self-transfer to the famous 'Love' statue in Shinjuku from where the tour will depart at 7.50AM*. Drive past Harajuku shopping district and stop to visit the Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine. See the Imperial Palace area among other highlights before stopping in the historic neighbourhood of Asakusa, home to the Senso-ji Temple Kaminari-mon Gate and the Nakamise shopping avenue. Enjoy a Matcha tasting experience and a Japanese lunch at a local Izakaya restaurant and climb the Tokyo Skytree tower, from which you will admire the infinite Tokyo skyline. In the afternoon, board a river cruise that will take you through the Tokyo Bay to the Odaiba island and end the tour back at Shinjuku. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight stay in Tokyo.* Warning: Please leave your hotel with time and plan your self-transfer ahead. The bus will leave at 8AM with no exceptions.

Day 4 : Tokyo

Location: Mount Fuji

Accommodation Name: Monterey Akasaka

Meals Included: Lunch

On this day, come face-to-face with legendary Mount Fuji. Depart by bus at 7.45AM from the same meeting point in Shinjuku than the day before and head up to the Fuji's 5th Station. At this height, you will be amazed by the breathtaking views from above the clouds. After strolling around this area from which mountaineers start their journey to the summit, you will stop for a lunch at the Oshino Shinobu ninja-themed village. After lunch break, the bus will take you to Owakudani valley, also known as "Hell Valley". Here you can see hot springs and volcanic activity and even try the famous "black eggs", boiled in the sulfur pits. From there, you will ride the Hakone ropeway down to Lake Ashi, where you will be able to get a stunning view of Fuji's silhouette whilst sailing on this pristine lake. Finally, return by bus to Shinjuku Station and overnight stay in Tokyo.* Warning: Please leave your hotel with time and plan your self-transfer ahead. The bus will leave according to schedule with no exceptions.Please note: If road conditions or unforeseen circumstances restrict the ascent to the 5th station, you will instead travel the highest elevation possible considering the circumstances. The same also applies for the cruise on Ashi Crater Lake; if conditions or circumstances prevent sailing on the lake, alternative visits and experiences will be taken to replace the activity.

Day 5 : Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Keihan Kyoto Ekiminami

Enjoy a day exploring Tokyo at your leisure, getting to know the shopping districts of Akihabara, known for its anime culture and camera bargains, or Shibuya, where you can see its iconic crosswalk and eclectic restaurants.

Day 6 : Tokyo - Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Keihan Kyoto Ekiminami

Today, board a bullet train to Kyoto, the capital of the Japanese Empire for 11 centuries. The trip takes only around 2 hours and 15 minutes, and the train can reach speeds of 300 km/h! Once settled in Kyoto, we recommend exploring the emblematic neighborhood of Gion, known for its traditional architecture and admired geishas. Overnight stay in Kyoto.

Day 7 : Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Keihan Kyoto Ekiminami

Meals Included: Lunch

Set off this morning on a Kyoto Highlights Full-Day Bus Tour to discover the beautiful and historical ‘cultural capital’ of Japan. On this exciting excursion you’ll visit the Fushimi Inari, the most important of the many shrines dedicated to Inari, the deity of good harvest and success, known for its emblematic red ‘gates’. Next visit the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site. Pay a visit to the Kinkakuji Temple next, known as the temple of the Golden Pavilion as the top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Finally, experience the immense natural beauty of the Arashiyama bamboo forest. Lunch included. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay in Kyoto.

Day 8 : Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu

Spend today at your leisure, exploring the delights of Kyoto at your own pace. Why not discover the historic Nijo Castle or the Philosopher's Walk, a beautiful footpath along a cherry-tree-lined canal? We recommend an optional afternoon excursion to the peaceful city of Nara.* Overnight stay in Kyoto.* Optional Nara Excursion: Head to Nara for a tour of two World Heritage Sites: Todai-Ji Temple and Kofukuji Temple. Encounter wild deer up close while walking through Nara Park, a rarity in Japan and worldwide and discover Todai-Ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest wooden structures.

Day 9 : Kyoto - Osaka

Location: Osaka

Accommodation Name: Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu

Today, take a local train* to travel to Osaka. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free to discover this charming city. We recommend visiting the Kuromon local market and its Floating Garden Observatory in the Umeda Sky Building, from which there is an unforgettable panoramic view of the city. Overnight stay in Osaka.* The local train transfer Kyoto - Osaka does not have a fixed schedule. Passengers can exchange their ticket at any time during the transfer day and choose the departure time that best suits their plans. The local train departs from Kyoto station.

Day 10 : Osaka

Location: Osaka

Accommodation Name: Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu

Spend the day at your own pace for a self-guided visit of Osaka. You will have at your disposal an Osaka Metro + City Bus card to discover the city's main areas. You will also have an admission ticket for the Osaka Castle, where you have the chance to learn about the history of one of Japan's most famous landmarks. Overnight stay in Osaka.

Day 11 : Osaka

Location: Osaka

Spend the day at your leisure exploring the cultural delights of Osaka. Get to know the local area and sample the iconic local cuisine. In fact, the street food markets of Osaka are said to be the best in the country! Overnight stay in Osaka.

Day 12 : Osaka - Night On Board

Location: Osaka

Sadly it's time to say goodbye to the Land of the Rising Sun. On this day, use your Airport shuttle bus ticket to transfer from Osaka to the Osaka airport. Night on board.

Day 13 : Uk/Ireland

Location: UK/Ireland

Arrive in the UK/Ireland and end your trip.

What's Included

  • Departures from main UK/Ireland airports.

  • International flights: UK/Ireland - Tokyo, Osaka - UK/Ireland.

  • Tokyo Subway Pass 72h, Kyoto Bus/Subway Pass 24h, local train from Kyoto to Osaka, bus transfer Osaka - Osaka airport.*

  • 10 nights accommodation in Superior category hotels.**

  • Bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto.***

  • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.

  • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.

  • Japanese SIM Card (only internet - up to 3GB).

  • ATOL Protection.

  • Airport Meet & Greet upon arrival.****

Check out our Q&As

  • What are the main cities visited in the Self-Guided Japanese Adventure - Superior tour?

    The main cities visited in the tour are Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

  • What is included in the Self-Guided Japanese Adventure - Superior tour?

    The tour includes departures from main UK/Ireland airports, international flights between UK/Ireland and Japan, Tokyo Subway Pass 72h, Kyoto Bus/Subway Pass 24h, local train from Kyoto to Osaka, bus transfer Osaka - Osaka airport, 10 nights accommodation in Superior category hotels, bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto, visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary, all air taxes and fuel surcharge, Japanese SIM Card (only internet - up to 3GB), ATOL Protection, and Airport Meet & Greet upon arrival.

  • What type of accommodations are provided in the Self-Guided Japanese Adventure - Superior tour?

    The tour provides 10 nights accommodation in Superior category hotels.

  • What are the highlights of the Self-Guided Japanese Adventure - Superior tour?

    The highlights of the tour include exploring Tokyo, discovering Mount Fuji, wandering through Kyoto, visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto, strolling through Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, experiencing Osaka's vibrant city life, and learning about Osaka Castle.

  • Where can I check the latest Travel Restrictions?

    It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. It is also the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding government embassies and/or consulates as appropriate.

  • What recommendations should I follow before traveling?

    Passport validity: It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding embassies and/or consulates as appropriate. Requirements change so please check the up-to-date requirements in advance of your departure date. In many cases, countries now require that passports are valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from their borders.

  • How can I upgrade my flight?

    If you would like to make an upgrade to your flight or ask for a quotation, please contact us with all the information. Our customer success agents will answer your request as soon as possible.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes of flights and related services are not permitted after the booking is confirmed. If you wish to make any significant amendment affecting the flights, you will need to cancel it as per the terms & conditions applicable to your booking and make a new booking. If you require more information about your cancellations policy please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section). If you would like to proceed with the cancellation or require assistance please contact us.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    The COVID-19 pandemic not only created an unparalleled impact on health and economy globally, but it has also changed fundamental behaviors with regards to traveling. In response to such changes, Exoticca provides extra peace of mind for all reservations made from 18th January, 2022 onwards by including Covid 19 Protection. Testing positive for COVID-19: If you or anyone else traveling with you on your booking cannot travel due to testing positive for COVID-19 you will be given the option to reschedule your trip or receive 100% of the trip value in Exoticca travel credit. **Proof of infection must be provided in the form of an official COVID-19 positive test result. For more information on the details of the Covid 19 Protection Policy, please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section).

  • Travelling to the USA or Canada?

    Traveling to the United States: Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. ESTA is an online application system, developed by the United States government to pre-screen travelers before authorizing them to board a plane or ship bound for the United States. Starting on the 12th of January 2009, any person entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program must have an approved ESTA travel authorization. This includes travelers who travel to the United States to catch a connecting flight. An ESTA does not guarantee entry to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials determine the admissibility of travelers upon arrival. For more information click here. If a traveler is found to have visited a country designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (09.11.2022, Countries: Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Syria), the traveler is no longer eligible to participate in the Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a visa to enter the United States. Traveling to Canada: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to Canada by air. This includes travelers who travel to Canada to catch a connecting flight. An eTA is linked electronically to the traveler's passport and is valid for a maximum of five years or until the passport expires, depending on which of these two scenarios occurs first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA. An eTA does not guarantee entry to Canada. When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents to determine whether you are admissible to enter Canada. For more information click here. Traveling to a Schengen member country (Europe): Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) The ETIAS travel authorization will be needed to enter a Schengen member country by air, land, or sea. From November 2023, visitors that do not need a visa to enter Europe will be able to register with ETIAS. ETIAS will become a mandatory entry requirement. The ETIAS for Europe will grant travelers authorization to visit the ETIAS countries that are all members that compose the Schengen zone. The ETIAS visa waiver has been designed for short-term stays of up to 90 days. For more information click here.

  • COVID-19 vaccination recommendations and other vaccines?

    It is the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. Check with the migration and health authorities for the country of origin, destination, and stopover to learn more about vaccination requirements.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Once your purchase is complete, you will receive confirmation by email and all your travel documents will be uploaded on to your booking and the Exoticca customer account (which you'll be provided details of). These will include: transport details, hotels, itinerary, important notes, and insurance policy (if applicable).

Reviews of this operator

Jane S  

South America with Exoticca

04-Jun-2023

Most of the time we were travelling as a couple although we kept bumping into others in a simialr situation. Wherever we went there was someone there to welcome us and take us to our hotel, tell us about arrangements for the next few days and to generally look after us. Guides always turned up as expected and were all of a very high standard. We never felt concerned about what was due to happen the next day - it always did! Tours were always of interest. Accommodation which was charm class was perfectly acceptable and if not in the centre of town, taxis were always easy to use and safe whether a white pick up van in the Galapagos or a tuk tuk in Peru. I had a slight accident while there and I have to say that Exoticca guides etc could not have been more helpful. I would not hesitate to recommend Exoticca to anyone thinking of using them. We had an amazing experience in Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos.

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647e07eb706f837cb1f86880
Diana Gwynn  

Imperial Cities and Desert

20-May-2023

Really excellent way to see Morocco. Our first experience of Exoticca and we were impressed with all the arrangements and attention to detail. The local guides were excellent and our driver Ayoub the absolute best - helpful, kind, knowledgeable and funny. What an outstanding young man! We are definitely recommending Exoticca to our friends and are interested in exploring other countries with you. Many thanks!

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647ccf3f81ea8608ae6d5e06
S A (Google Reviewer)  

Exoticca was a great experience....

11-Apr-2024

Exoticca was a great experience. Very well planned itinerary and our tour driver Leo was excellent. We were lucky to get good weather for the most parts and were given good guidance about local attractions. The hotels were well located and of a good quality. Overall a very pleasant experience. We will travel with Exoticca again.

Kimberly Penna (Google Reviewer)  

I very much enjoyed my...

10-Apr-2024

I very much enjoyed my trip to Portugal with Exoticca. I love that you're able to book the flight at the same time as the vacation booking because you won't get stuck with a bunch of layovers like other tour companies spring on you at the last minute. I felt like the trip was very organized and well-planned. I also like that I was back in my hotel room everyday prior to 6:00 p.m. so I had the whole night to myself to do whatever I wanted rather than being stuck on a bus for hours. I will definitely be booking with Exoticca again.

Dale Foster (Google Reviewer)  

We had a great time...

29-Mar-2024

We had a great time and great experience on our recent trip to South Africa through Exoticca. Very good value with the pricing and very organized and good communication from them. It was a busy trip with so much to see and someday I would like to go back to Capetown and spend a month or so. The safari in Kruger National Park was awesome and we saw every animal there was including the Big 5. And because of traveling to and from Kruger and the safari, we made some lifelong friends. Looking forward to traveling through Exoticca again as I have had my eye on other trips they offer.

Muhammad Zubair  

Jordan and Egypt trip with Exotica

30-May-2023

Our whole trip was meticulously planned. Our guides were really helpful and informative. Special mention to Adnan in Jordan and Mohamed Raouf in Egypt our guides they made this trip lot more interesting. Accommodations and flights to food everything was amazing. Both the countries were amazing and an overall amazing experience

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647533e4706f837cb1f40c85
Cathy Wallace (Google Reviewer)  

One of the best trips...

09-Apr-2024

One of the best trips ever from start to finish. Great choice of accommodations , very well organized, excellent guides and so much fun. Ecuador and the Galapagos was our trip! Very helpful and polite on the phone with booking process . Very impressed, will definitely book with Exoticca again 😊

JB  

Saw most of what was on the itinerary…

04-Jun-2023

Saw most of what was on the itinerary… Saw most of what was on the itinerary but not the best guide (our Exoticca guide in Ecuador was great but ones since then less so). More free time would have been good ( we didn't even get the free time listed on the itinerary) especially at lunchtimes. Beautiful scenery ranging from the sand dunes to the snow capped mountains. Date of experien

https://uk.trustpilot.com/users/642ae4e995d55f0014af4543
XQ Tong (Google Reviewer)  

The tour of 'Essence of...

12-Apr-2024

The tour of 'Essence of Patagonia & Cultural Capitals - Argentina & Chile' was a great experience and good value for the money. It gave us plenty of free time at most locations to explore on our own. The full day guided tours in Patagonia on both Argentina and Chile sides were great.

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Exoticca requires a minimum deposit of 60% 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 exoticca charges.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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