Japan Express – Osaka to Tokyo Tour
9-day Japan Express – Osaka to Tokyo
Tour Highlights
Catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji
Stay in a mountain monastery
Admire the famous floating torii gate in Miyajima
Visit Nijo Castle and gardens in Kyoto
Package Details
Experience the diverse facets of Japan on this compact tour from Osaka to Tokyo. This 9-day adventure beautifully blends the traditional with the modern, offering a taste of Japan's rich cultural heritage and culinary delights mixed with stunning architecture and landscapes. Includes 7 nights hotel accommodation, 1 night monastery stay, 3 breakfasts and 2 dinners.
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What's Included?
- 7 nights hotel accommodation and 1 night monastery stay
- 3 breakfasts and 2 dinners
- All local transport by bullet train, tram, ferry, public bus
- All listed activities
Itinerary
Day 1 Osaka arrival
- Ask us about booking a few nights before the tour starts to make the most of your time in Osaka. Check the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2 Osaka-Kōyasan
- Travel to Mt Koya, a religious centre founded in 816 by the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi. The train ride up the mountain is spectacular with the final steep ascent, by funicular. In the afternoon, wander through the temples and the moss-covered Oku-no-in cemetery. In the evening, sample some shojin-ryori, traditional vegetarian cuisine.
Day 3 Kōyasan-Hiroshima
- Early this morning, you can witness the monks' prayers before enjoying a vegetarian breakfast. Take in the fresh mountain air and immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings before travelling by train to Hiroshima this afternoon.
Day 4 Hiroshima
- This morning, visit the Peace Park and Memorial Museum in the centre of Hiroshima, a living memorial dedicated to the tens of thousands who died from the atomic bomb blast in 1945. Then take a ferry to Miyajima Island for a free afternoon of exploration. Admire the famous floating Torii Gate in the bay, hike up to Mt Misen, to take in the spectacular views of the surrounding islands.
Day 5 Hiroshima - Kyoto
- Travel by bullet train to Kyoto. Explore the impressive Nijo Castle and gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in 1603 during the Edo Period.Take an evening walking tour through Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district. Visit shops, restaurants and ochaya (teahouses).
Day 6 Kyoto
- This morning explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine, situated just outside Kyoto. Stroll beneath the thousands of iconic torii gates, famously featured in the film ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’, and soak in the serene ambiance. The main shrine is located at the base of Mount Inari, but there are numerous trails leading up to smaller shrines scattered throughout the area. The afternoon is free to explore Kyoto at your leisure
Day 7 Kyoto - Hakone
- Travel by train to Odawara and by bus on to Hakone. Take a boat ride on Lake Ashino-ko, and hopefully catch a glimpse of majestic Mt Fuji. Enjoy a feast on a traditional Japanese kaiseki meal then soak in the natural hot springs or onsens that Hakone is famous for. Please note that there will be an overnight luggage service between Kyoto and Tokyo. You will need to pack an overnight bag to carry what you need during this time.
Day 8 Hakone - Tokyo
- Arrive in Tokyo before noon, allowing time to explore this energetic metropolis. Consider visiting Ueno Park and its museums, exploring Akihabara for the latest electronics, or heading to Harajuku for unique fashion. For luxury shopping, Ginza is the place to be. You can also walk through the Imperial Palace East Garden or simply wander the streets, discovering the traditional life that still exists beneath the modern facade.
Day 9 Tokyo Depart at any time.
- If you would like to extend your stay in the Japanese capital, ask us for options.