Japan in a Week

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Japan in a Week



Tour Description:

Kon'nichiwa Japan! We may only have a week, but what a week it is. Starting in the orchestra of light, sound and history that is Tokyo, we'll get locally guided tours of temples and palaces before whizzing to Kyoto via a bullet train. Here, we'll walk through zen gardens, explore mystical temples and spot Geishas before taking the short trip to Osaka, where we'll have plenty of time to nip to Universal Studios or simply eat our way around the local street food stalls. Filled with a dazzling fusion of modern spectacle and ancient charm, this trip is the best way to see Japan in a week.

Map for Japan in a Week
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Dates & Pricing

Saturday 15 Mar 25 — Saturday 22 Mar 25Starting at $2,217Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 22 Mar 25 — Saturday 29 Mar 25Starting at $2,283Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 29 Mar 25 — Saturday 05 Apr 25Starting at $2,283Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 05 Apr 25 — Saturday 12 Apr 25Starting at $2,283Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 12 Apr 25 — Saturday 19 Apr 25Starting at $2,085Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 19 Apr 25 — Saturday 26 Apr 25Starting at $2,085Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 26 Apr 25 — Saturday 03 May 25Starting at $1,776Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 03 May 25 — Saturday 10 May 25Starting at $1,700Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 17 May 25 — Saturday 24 May 25Starting at $1,776Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 31 May 25 — Saturday 07 Jun 25Starting at $1,776Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 14 Jun 25 — Saturday 21 Jun 25Starting at $1,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 28 Jun 25 — Saturday 05 Jul 25Starting at $1,687Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 12 Jul 25 — Saturday 19 Jul 25Starting at $1,700Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 26 Jul 25 — Saturday 02 Aug 25Starting at $1,750Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 23 Aug 25 — Saturday 30 Aug 25Starting at $1,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 06 Sep 25 — Saturday 13 Sep 25Starting at $1,687Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 13 Sep 25 — Saturday 20 Sep 25Starting at $1,700Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 20 Sep 25 — Saturday 27 Sep 25Starting at $1,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 27 Sep 25 — Saturday 04 Oct 25Starting at $1,700Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 04 Oct 25 — Saturday 11 Oct 25Starting at $1,700Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 11 Oct 25 — Saturday 18 Oct 25Starting at $1,750Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 18 Oct 25 — Saturday 25 Oct 25Starting at $1,700Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 07 Mar 26 — Saturday 14 Mar 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 14 Mar 26 — Saturday 21 Mar 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 21 Mar 26 — Saturday 28 Mar 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Wednesday 25 Mar 26 — Wednesday 01 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 28 Mar 26 — Saturday 04 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Wednesday 01 Apr 26 — Wednesday 08 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 04 Apr 26 — Saturday 11 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Wednesday 08 Apr 26 — Wednesday 15 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 11 Apr 26 — Saturday 18 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Wednesday 15 Apr 26 — Wednesday 22 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 18 Apr 26 — Saturday 25 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Wednesday 22 Apr 26 — Wednesday 29 Apr 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 02 May 26 — Saturday 09 May 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 09 May 26 — Saturday 16 May 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 16 May 26 — Saturday 23 May 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 23 May 26 — Saturday 30 May 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 30 May 26 — Saturday 06 Jun 26Starting at $1,868Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 06 Jun 26 — Saturday 13 Jun 26Starting at $1,868Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 13 Jun 26 — Saturday 20 Jun 26Starting at $1,868Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 20 Jun 26 — Saturday 27 Jun 26Starting at $1,868Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 04 Jul 26 — Saturday 11 Jul 26Starting at $1,868Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 11 Jul 26 — Saturday 18 Jul 26Starting at $1,868Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 25 Jul 26 — Saturday 01 Aug 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 08 Aug 26 — Saturday 15 Aug 26Starting at $2,066Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 22 Aug 26 — Saturday 29 Aug 26Starting at $1,868Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 05 Sep 26 — Saturday 12 Sep 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 19 Sep 26 — Saturday 26 Sep 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 26 Sep 26 — Saturday 03 Oct 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 10 Oct 26 — Saturday 17 Oct 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 17 Oct 26 — Saturday 24 Oct 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 24 Oct 26 — Saturday 31 Oct 26Starting at $1,967Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Check Mark Icon Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.


Destination & Sightseeing

Dining Summary
3 Breakfast (B)

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 is the best time of year to visit Japan? Japan sure is magical all year round, but the best time to visit will depend on what you’re looking for. Want to spot Mt Fuji? Head to Japan in June/July – and hang around for the firework festivals too. Wanna experience Japan's winter vibes and even hit some of the spectacular ski spots? Book our Japan Winter Wonder trip between November - March. April to May is when you’ll catch the cherry blossoms, and autumn (August - November) is a great time for colourful leaves and cooler weather.
Nara: What should I wear in Japan? Dress for comfort first! As a traveller here, you’ll be most comfortable in loose-fitted clothes, made from a light and breathable fabric. Winter in Japan can be as cool as 1-7°C, so you may want to bring some warm clothes if you’re here between October and April.
Nara: What is the tipping culture in Japan? Tipping in Japan is generally not accepted. Although it’s slowly becoming more common within the tourism industry, tipping isn’t much of a custom in Japan. In lots of restaurants, you’ll pay upfront before you eat and won’t be expected to leave a tip as you leave – Japanese hospitality workers are even known to turn tips down. The same goes for bus and taxi rides. In shops, you may be given your change using a tray, but this isn’t an indication to leave a tip (as it might be in other countries).
Nara: How much spending money do I need for one week in Japan? When you travel with Contiki, your accommodation, in-country transport, and some breakfasts are included with the cost of your trip – so when it comes to budgeting, you only need to worry about how much shopping you’ll do in Tokyo! Average prices for Japan include:Museum tickets: ¥1,000 - ¥2,000 ($7 - $15) Sushi meal: ¥2,500 ($19) Noodles/Ramen meal: ¥600 - ¥1,200 ($4 - $9) For a rough estimate, we’d recommend budgeting a minimum of $80USD per day.But please remember that these prices subject to change!
Nara: Are service charges included in the bill at restaurants in Japan? Even though tipping is rare in Japan, it is common for a restaurant to add a service charge to your bill. This will usually be to the value of 10-15%, and you’ll find that it’s issued on arrival. I.e. served with your appetiser.

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 Shōken. 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.
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.

ITINERARY

Arrive Tokyo
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.

Tokyo
Today we'll get ready to uncover Tokyo, starting with the ancient Buddhist temple of Asakusa Senso-ji & the famous Meiji Jingu shrine. You'll have the chance to discover the wild fashion of Harajuku & the shopping district of Nakamise Street, or take to the streets of Shibuya for an attempt to cross the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world.

Tokyo
Today is yours to do Tokyo your way. Anime fan? Check out Akihabara, the ultimate anime & gaming district. Looking for something uniquely Japanese? Go on a date with a giant plush toy at the Moomin cafe, eat a kawaii lunch (like a curry shaped like a pink teddy bear), or check out Ueno Park for the museums and monuments. It's our last evening in Tokyo, so it's also the perfect time to check out some of the traditional bars at the Izakaya Alleys for a sip of sake or head to a cafe where you're served by robots! (In true Japanese fashion).

Tokyo to Kyoto
Today it's time to take that famous example of Japanese efficiency, the aptly named bullet train. Our train will whizz us past the iconic Mount Fuji, of which we'll hopefully grab a glimpse, before heading for the zen gardens and teahouses of Kyoto. We'll waste no time with a sightseeing tour, exploring this glorious showcase of ancient Japan.

Kyoto
Today is yours to walk the sublime gardens, explore mystical temples and marvel at the architecture of this unforgettable city. We recommend taking the opportunity for a half-day trip to Nara, where you'll find the towering 8th century Great Buddha, as well as numerous examples of beautiful shrines and temples, alongside the roaming, slightly cheeky deer.

Kyoto
There is still so much to see in Kyoto today. Don a kimono and check out the bamboo forest, take some photos at the iconic Yasaka Pagoda or spot Geishas in the Gion district.

Kyoto to Osaka
It's just a short trip to Osaka this morning... And we have the whole day to explore. There's plenty of time to fit in Universal Studios, Osaka castle or simply wander down Dontonburi tasting all of the delicious street food. Opt for the Izakaya dinner tonight for one last family meal before our sad goodbyes tomorrow.

Osaka
Our trip ends after breakfast in Osaka today. We'll say farewell to Japan & our new friends, but the memories we made here will stick with us forever.

Check Mark Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.