Classic Japan

Classic Japan

299 Views

Classic Japan

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

Visiting: Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Osaka

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

JPCLZN19

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan with the "Classic Japan" tour, exploring the vibrant cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Sensoji Temple, Mt. Fuji, and the Peace Memorial Park. Experience the cultural richness of Japan with a Taiko drumming lesson, a cruise along the Sumida River, and a visit to the bamboo groves of Arashiyama. Enjoy a unique "Be My Guest" lunch with a local farmer's family in Nara and support sustainable practices by visiting Kiyomizu pottery artisans in Kyoto. Travel in comfort with luxury transportation and stay in cherry-picked hotels, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. With expert guidance and flexible sightseeing options, this tour offers a perfect blend of must-see highlights and cultural immersion.

Highlights

  • Explore the vibrant cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka.

  • Visit iconic sites such as Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto, and the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima.

  • Experience the natural beauty of Mt. Fuji from its 5th Station and the bamboo groves in Arashiyama.

  • Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Sumida River in Tokyo and the Okawa River in Osaka.

  • Participate in a traditional tea ceremony and support Kiyomizu pottery artisans in Kyoto.

  • Lunch with a local farmer's family at a traditional tea plantation in Nara.

  • Discover the famous Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.

  • Admire panoramic views from the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Konnichiwa Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation: New Otani Garden Tower

Accommodation Name: New Otani Garden Tower

Tokyo’s futuristic cityscape launches your journey through Japan’s modern centers and ancient capitals. On arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport, you’ll be transferred by airport shuttle to your hotel. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome drink with appetizers.

Day 2: Explore Vibrant Tokyo Dive Into Culture

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation: New Otani Garden Tower

Accommodation Name: New Otani Garden Tower

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Rub shoulders with the locals this morning as you Dive Into Culture and wander through Ameyoko Street Market, once a black market selling American goods after World War II. Continue to the old-time entertainment center of Asakusa to visit the Sensoji Buddhist Temple, which has been rebuilt countless times since its founding in 628, making it Tokyo’s oldest temple site. Take a stroll down Nakamise shopping street with some free time for lunch, then join a Local Specialist and learn the mesmerizing rhythmic art of Taiko drumming, one of Japan’s most popular cultural icons. Board a cruise along the Sumida River to admire Tokyo’s modern skyline, the traditional neighborhoods of old Edo and beautiful Hamarikyu Garden. Later, return to your hotel for time at leisure and dinner at a Sumo-themed izakaya restaurant.

Day 3: Continue To Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation: New Otani Garden Tower

Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Leave Tokyo, traveling by high-speed bullet train to Kyoto, another former capital of Japan and the center of Japanese culture for centuries. On arrival, you’ll embark on a walking tour of the Gion District, embracing the energy of Kawaramachi street. Visit Kinkakuji Temple, whose glittering golden pavilion is widely regarded as the symbol of Kyoto, before returning to the hotel for an evening of leisure.

Day 4: Discover Enchanting Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation: Nikko Princess

Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit one of Kyoto’s highlights—the historic and scenic district of Arashiyama, renowned for its cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring and its stunning landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the towering bamboo groves and see the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Connect with nature in the Zen gardens of Tenryuji Temple, then spend some free time at Nishiki Market, a traditional food market known to locals as “Kyoto’s Pantry.” Return to your hotel or consider joining an optional Japanese tea ceremony experience.

Day 5: Admire Ancient Nara Make Travel Matter

Location: Nara

Accommodation: Nikko Princess

Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama

Meals Included: Lunch

Start the day off with a visit to Sumiyama Village and discover the stunning Kiyomizu Pottery which originated about 500 years ago in central Kyoto. Learn about the work of the craftsmen and about how they had to move out of the city and into a more rural area due to concerns from the local citizens about air pollution. Next 'Connect With Locals' over a 'Be My Guest' lunch with a local farmer at his home. Gain insights into the life of his family while sampling fresh tea and indulging in a delicious home-made meal, then visit his tea plantation. This afternoon delve into the ancient history of Nara, the first permanent capital city of Japan. Here you’ll visit the landmark Todaiji Temple, one of the powerful Seven Great Temples and home to one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha. Take a stroll around Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming tame deer before returning to Kyoto for an evening at leisure.

Day 6: Bullet Train To Hiroshima Dive Into Culture

CRISTINA TIRON

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation: Nikko Princess

Accommodation Name: Rihga Royal

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, board a high-speed bullet train to Hiroshima, a lively city that celebrates peace in the shadow of the previous century’s devastation. Your first stop is to a local restaurant where you’ll join our Local Specialist for an Okonomiyaki making experience. Mix your ingredients to make your own savory pancake and cook it on a hot plate before enjoying your creation for lunch. This afternoon, take the ferry to Miyajima Island to visit the famous UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine and elaborate torii gate rising majestically out of the sea. Learn how to make Momiji Manjyu, one of the local specialties, shaping your steamed bun as a maple leaf and filling it with sweet red bean paste. You’ll have an opportunity to sample your work before returning to Hiroshima by ferry.

Day 7: Experience Hiroshima

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation: Rihga Royal

Accommodation Name: Rihga Royal

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, head to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum and see the UNESCO-listed Peace Memorial, the only structure left standing when the first atomic bomb exploded in 1945. Take a moment to contemplate its symbolic expression of hope for world peace. Spend the afternoon at leisure or consider joining an Optional Experience.

Day 8: Onwards To Osaka

たけほがら

Location: Osaka

Accommodation: Rihga Royal

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Miyako

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, take the high-speed bullet train to Osaka. On arrival embark on an orientation drive of the central city and your first glimpse of sights including the incredible Umeda Sky Building before checking in to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

Day 9: See The Sights Of Osaka

Location: Osaka

Accommodation: Sheraton Miyako

Accommodation Name: Sheraton Miyako

Meals Included: Dinner

Gain a different perspective of Osaka’s landmark city sights, starting your day with a cruise on the ‘aqua-bus’ along Okawa River. Sail past the Japan Mint, City Hall, Nakanoshima and Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Visit the downtown district of Shinsekai to see the Tsutenkaku Tower, then continue to the Dotonbori Street area for some time at leisure. Delve into the star-crossed love story of Ohatsu and Tokubei during your visit to the Tsuyunoten Shrine in Umeda, associated with the Edo-period play ‘The Love Suicides of Sonezaki, which tells of the tragic double suicide that took place at the shrine in 1703. To this day, visitors write their prayers for success in love on special wooden plaques called ema, many of which bear the image of Ohatsu and Tokubei. Admire the panoramic views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory – an open-air viewing platform that straddles the two towers of the Umeda Sky Building. Later join your fellow guests and Travel Director for a dinner in a local restaurant.

Day 10: Sayonara Osaka

Location: Osaka

Accommodation: Sheraton Miyako

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Your journey revealing Japan's past and present is at its end, take a transfer by airport shuttle service to Kansai International Airport or Osaka Itami Airport for your onward flight.

Day 11: Sayonara Osaka

Location: Osaka

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your journey revealing Japan's past and present is at its end, take a transfer by airport shuttle service to Kansai International Airport or Osaka Itami Airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

    An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.

  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

    Accommodation in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, is included.

  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities

    All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.

  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

    All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included.

  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

    Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals are included.

  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

    Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included.

  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

    Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing are included.

  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi

    Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) is included.

  • Optional Experiences and free time

    Optional Experiences and free time are included.

  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized

    On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

What's Not Included

  • International Airfare

    International airfare to and from the start and end of your tour is not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Some Meals

    Not all meals are covered, providing you the opportunity to explore local cuisines on your own.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar, room service, and other personal items are not included.

  • Optional Experience Costs

    Costs for optional experiences, unless stated as included, are not covered.

  • Visa Fees

    Any applicable visa fees are not included.

Dining Summary

10 Breakfast (B)2 Dinner (D)4 Lunch (L)

Dive Into Culture

Tokyo: Visit Ameyoko Street Market, once a black market selling American goods after World War II.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique cultural experiences are included in the Classic Japan tour?

    The tour includes a Taiko drumming lesson in Tokyo, an Okonomiyaki making experience in Hiroshima, and a visit to a Kiyomizu pottery workshop in Kyoto. Additionally, there is a 'Be My Guest' lunch with a local farmer's family in Nara.

  • How does the Classic Japan tour support sustainable tourism?

    The tour supports sustainable tourism by visiting a Kiyomizu pottery workshop in Kyoto, which contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the Classic Japan tour?

    The tour uses luxury air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi and includes high-speed bullet train journeys for certain segments.

  • Are meals included in the Classic Japan tour?

    The tour includes breakfast daily, up to half of the evening meals, and four lunches. Some meals are not included, allowing travelers to explore local cuisines independently.

  • What is the accommodation like on the Classic Japan tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted, ensuring comfort and quality throughout the journey.

  • What are some of the key highlights of the Classic Japan tour?

    Key highlights include exploring Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka, visiting iconic sites like Sensoji Temple, Mt. Fuji 5th Station, Kinkakuji Temple, and the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, as well as scenic cruises along the Sumida and Okawa Rivers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.

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

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Save on this tour

Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!

Send me one now.

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Trafalgar allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform trafalgar, 90 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

Why book with tourhub?

Safe & Secure

Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.

Visa logo Mastercard logo
apple pay icon google pay icon

100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.


The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.

Guaranteed Best Value

Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.


No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.

(Operator terms may apply)

Expert Knowledge

Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.


Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.


Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.

Trusted Service

Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.


Don't just take our word for it...

"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."

Similar Tours

Travel Guru Features

Our Reviews