Call Us 800.528.9300
Japan Unrivalled 35 to 45
Tour Description:
Kon'nichiwa! And welcome to our ultimate trip to Japan. Experience traditional Japanese hot springs in Hakone, explore Kyoto the cultural hub of Japan by visiting the Fushimi Inari Shrine & travel around Tokyo taking in all the bright lights and quirks as well as eating as much sushi as possible. This is the only way to be guided around Japan, one of the most unique countries in the world. The best part is? You can live the dream with a fellow group of 35 to 45s.
Click for larger view.
Dates & Pricing
| Saturday 30 May 26 — Thursday 11 Jun 26 | Starting at $4,385 |  SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Saturday 17 Oct 26 — Thursday 29 Oct 26 | Starting at $4,475 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
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 Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice.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
Destination & SightseeingDining Summary
8 Breakfast (B)
2 Dinner (D)
FAQs
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 kind of luggage should I bring? What are restrictions? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights on this trip.You’ll travel between a few destinations via the Shinkansen (bullet train), and won’t have your main luggage because of the space restrictions. But there’s no need to worry, because we’ll send everything forward to the next hotel via truck.In Hiroshima and Mt Koya, you’ll need to bring an overnight bag since you won’t have your main luggage with you. Your Trip Manager will advise you about what you should bring for each day.
Nara: Can bullet train tickets be used at a later date? Starstruck by the Shinkansen? Same. All bullet train tickets are one-use-only tickets (and not passes). So, you won’t be able to use them after the trip has concluded.
Nara: Will I be given a Japan Rail (JR) Pass? A Japan Rail Pass can be quite handy while travelling in Japan. But since we’ve got you covered for the transport, you won’t need a Japan Rail Pass. You’re always welcome to ask your Trip Manager where you can buy one once the trip ends.
Nara: Is Street Kart or Mario Kart available as an optional activity? Currently, Street Kart or Mario Kart aren’t offered on any Contiki trip. Who knows what the future holds, though?
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.
Tokyo: Heads up seafood fans! Check out the weird and wonderful fish at this bustling market.
Hakone: Tour this beautiful mountain town, famed for its views of Mount Fuji. And get your kicks on the epic cable car ride.
Hakone: Nothing beats sitting down to enjoy a slap up meal. This is portion after portion of authentic Japanese cuisine at its finest.
Isawa: We'll visit a fruit farm where you'll have the chance to go pick and eat seasonal fruits (think: peaches, grapes. strawberries & more) - just like a local. It's a peak a Japanese experience!
Matsumoto: The towering ‘Black Crow’ castle is a national treasure. It looks like nothing short of a Samurai castle with its cherry trees (that blossom during spring!) and Alpine backdrop.
Takayama: The wooden ‘Edo’ buildings of Takayama really capture the vibe of ancient Japan.
Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum to commemorate the lives lost after the atomic bomb was dropped on the city.
Hiroshima: This way to amazing! These are the sites you always see in those impossibly tranquil pictures of Japan. IRL.
Kyoto: 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.
Koyasan: Take off your shoes, enter the golden doors and marvel at the wonders. Then chill in the rock garden. And breathe...
Koyasan: Think sleepover, but at a Buddhist temple! Take a sneak peek into the lives of monks in this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Every penny we spend at the Shukubo helps preserve ancient traditions that are slowly disappearing. During your stay, the head monk welcomes the group and, with the help of your local guide, explains the basics of the religion and daily life in the temple. You’ll join morning prayers, explore important religious relics, and learn the significance of the temple’s traditions. Top it off with a traditional vegetarian meal, discovering its positive effects and religious significance. Who knew you could do so much good by simply taking time to relax?
Koyasan: Start your journey towards enlightenment at this spiritual ceremony in Mount Koya. And breathe…
8 Breakfast (B)
2 Dinner (D)
FAQs
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 kind of luggage should I bring? What are restrictions? You can bring one bag or suitcase of 73cm x 50cm x 25cm (29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20kg (44lbs) – plus one piece of hand luggage suitable as a carry-on for flights on this trip.You’ll travel between a few destinations via the Shinkansen (bullet train), and won’t have your main luggage because of the space restrictions. But there’s no need to worry, because we’ll send everything forward to the next hotel via truck.In Hiroshima and Mt Koya, you’ll need to bring an overnight bag since you won’t have your main luggage with you. Your Trip Manager will advise you about what you should bring for each day.
Nara: Can bullet train tickets be used at a later date? Starstruck by the Shinkansen? Same. All bullet train tickets are one-use-only tickets (and not passes). So, you won’t be able to use them after the trip has concluded.
Nara: Will I be given a Japan Rail (JR) Pass? A Japan Rail Pass can be quite handy while travelling in Japan. But since we’ve got you covered for the transport, you won’t need a Japan Rail Pass. You’re always welcome to ask your Trip Manager where you can buy one once the trip ends.
Nara: Is Street Kart or Mario Kart available as an optional activity? Currently, Street Kart or Mario Kart aren’t offered on any Contiki trip. Who knows what the future holds, though?
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.
Tokyo: Heads up seafood fans! Check out the weird and wonderful fish at this bustling market.
Hakone: Tour this beautiful mountain town, famed for its views of Mount Fuji. And get your kicks on the epic cable car ride.
Hakone: Nothing beats sitting down to enjoy a slap up meal. This is portion after portion of authentic Japanese cuisine at its finest.
Isawa: We'll visit a fruit farm where you'll have the chance to go pick and eat seasonal fruits (think: peaches, grapes. strawberries & more) - just like a local. It's a peak a Japanese experience!
Matsumoto: The towering ‘Black Crow’ castle is a national treasure. It looks like nothing short of a Samurai castle with its cherry trees (that blossom during spring!) and Alpine backdrop.
Takayama: The wooden ‘Edo’ buildings of Takayama really capture the vibe of ancient Japan.
Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum to commemorate the lives lost after the atomic bomb was dropped on the city.
Hiroshima: This way to amazing! These are the sites you always see in those impossibly tranquil pictures of Japan. IRL.
Kyoto: 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.
Koyasan: Take off your shoes, enter the golden doors and marvel at the wonders. Then chill in the rock garden. And breathe...
Koyasan: Think sleepover, but at a Buddhist temple! Take a sneak peek into the lives of monks in this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Every penny we spend at the Shukubo helps preserve ancient traditions that are slowly disappearing. During your stay, the head monk welcomes the group and, with the help of your local guide, explains the basics of the religion and daily life in the temple. You’ll join morning prayers, explore important religious relics, and learn the significance of the temple’s traditions. Top it off with a traditional vegetarian meal, discovering its positive effects and religious significance. Who knew you could do so much good by simply taking time to relax?
Koyasan: Start your journey towards enlightenment at this spiritual ceremony in Mount Koya. And breathe…
ITINERARY
ITINERARYTokyo
Konnichiwa, Tokyo! Welcome to this dazzling orchestra of light, sound and intersecting subway lines. Meet your crew, get the trip vibes flowing, then your evening’s yours.
Tokyo
Today we'll bounce out of bed ready and raring to uncover Tokyo. The ancient Buddhist temple of Asakusa Senso-ji & the Meiji Jingu shrine are just some of the doors we will open to this city. If history and religion don't get you going, the wild fashion of Harajuku & the shopping district of Nakamise Street might see you more wide-eyed. Or perhaps your idea of fun is to take to the streets of Shibuya, attempting to cross the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world! You do you.
Tokyo
Today’s yours to do Tokyo your way (just remember to top up your transport card before you head out). Dive into everything the city does best, from neon streets and anime hubs to museums, parks, and food spots. There’s a couple of optional experiences on offer too. First up, a robot cafe where robots deliver your drinks and each table has an avatar you can chat with, piloted by people with disabilities who can’t work in a traditional setting. Then tonight (since it’s our last evening in Tokyo), it’s the perfect time to check out a Maid Cafe in Akihabara, Tokyo's tech paradise.
Tokyo to Isawa via Hakone
Before we leg it out of Japan's capital, we have some very serious business to tend to - a visit to Tsukiji - one of the world's most famous fish markets. After, you can opt to join a sushi making class or enjoy one last wander in Tokyo before we head to the countryside. Our first overland journey takes us south to Hakone, completely removing us from Tokyo's fast city pace. We will take in Japanese mountain vistas from the Hakone Ropeway & hopefully catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji. It's time to pamper ourselves! Check-in at our super chill Ryokan special stay, soak in those healing hot springs, and chillax. Tonight's dinner is a feast of flavors - Japanese kaiseki style!
Isawa to Takayama via Matsumoto
Waving our supremely hospitable hosts goodbye, we’ll hit the road in search of a long valley amidst the Japanese mountains, checking out the tranquil Tenkuno Torii Gate first. And then picking & eating fresh fruit at a nearby farm (if that's your vibe). Welcome to Matsumoto, nestled beside Japan’s highest mountain range – the Hida Mountains. First things first, we'll check out Matsumoto castle for a dose of samurai history and grab a quick conbini lunch before hitting the road once again. Tonight is yours to explore as you wish, but we have an inkling you won't want to miss the mouthwatering hida beef for dinner.
Takayama
Dark wooden buildings, Kanji signs & surrounding hillsides will see us totally taken by Takayama. Rent a bike and take a cycle, then unwind from it all with a Japanese onsen. Relaxation stations. After a full day watching the Japanese countryside roll by, there’s only one move left — kick your legs up and unwind here in Takayama.
Takayama to Hiroshima
In usual circumstances we'd be quite sad to be leaving the soul-stirring town of Takayama, but with the bullet train experience whizzing us to Hiroshima it's hard not to get excited. We’ll arrive in Hiroshima after a ride on Japan’s iconic Shinkansen, then head out on a private tour with a local guide to learn the city’s story. This includes entry to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, before you’ve got time to explore the city your way afterwards.
Hiroshima (Including Miyajima)
Wakey wakey. After brekkie, we’re on the move again, hopping on the tram and ferry over to the magical island of Miyajima. A gateway island. We’ll take a detour to the tranquil isle of Miyajima, where you’ll get a spellbinding view of the giant orange Great Torii Gate (you know the one, even if you don’t.) Expect forests, temples, roaming deer and much more... …and dinner! We’ll end our day in Hiroshima with more excitement to follow tomorrow.
Hiroshima to Kyoto
With 3 more destinations left to uncover on the Japanese map, we hit the road this morning and leave the historical metropolis of Hiroshima behind. Welcome to the culture hub of Japan. Geisha, artfully manicured gardens, shrines & temples aplenty - looks like we're in Kyoto! Thinking of checking out the Fushimi Inari Shrine? Approx 233 metres above sea level, the journey to the shrine begins at the base of the mountain. We won't waste a minute peeling back this city's layers, taking you to Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion & the Gion Area with our guide. You'll also have plenty of free time to check the place out any old way you please, and go on the lookout for glamorous geishas.
Kyoto
Didn't feel like you had enough time yesterday to really get under the skin of this utterly unique city? We've got good news for you - today is completely free for Kyoto adventuring. Ask your Trip Manager for the essentials on what to eat and where to go, then our best advice? Go get yourself a little lost, it's undeniably the best way to get to know a new city.
Kyoto to Mount Koya
Enjoy a slow and leisurely morning in Kyoto to get in the zen frame of mind for what lies ahead. On the train we make tracks for Mt Koya. You would think that by this stage of the trip all the phenomenal moments might be behind us. Oh how wrong you would be. Tonight we stay in a Buddhist Monastery, eating traditional vegetarian food and savouring the mindfulness & beauty of this incredible experience. For those looking for a digital detox amongst nature, it doesn't get better than this.
Mount Koya to Osaka
It's our last full day of the trip - make the most of it by rising early and partaking in the tradition of an early morning Buddhist service. A Local Guide will then walk us through the beauty of the Koyasan area and centuries old cemetery before we move on to our last destination. After a morning of peaceful serenity, it's time to get back to the big city life as we head to Osaka. Known as Japan’s kitchen, here you will have a chance to taste your way through the local food scene (which is basically mandatory). Once your food cravings are satisfied, why not shop around Americamura, pop into a Pokémon store, or just wander and see what grabs you - options aplenty.
Osaka
Today our Japanese fairytale comes to an end. Whilst we'll be crying silent (or not so silent) tears, our life-lasting memories, army of new friends and deep appreciation for Japan will be enough to keep the smiles on our faces. Sayōnara, globe trotters!
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.
