Essential Japan

Intrepid Travel · 10 days
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
Essential Japan
10 Days
From AUD $2465
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (20 reviews)

Essential Japan

Essential Japan

Intrepid Travel · 10 days
4.4
20 Reviews
View Map
Duration

10 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Say Konnichiwa to Japan – a diverse land of culture, innovation and cuisine. With your new group of friends, you’ll get your fix of sushi and shopping in Tokyo before soaking up Kanazawa’s crazy Samurai culture (this is a great place to knock back a couple glasses of sake, too).

Highlights

  • Explore Japan’s amazingly diverse destinations with loads of free time to see them your way. With all the nitty gritty details and transport worked out for you, you can focus on indulging in endless sushi, katsudon and okonomoyaki.
  • Immerse yourself in the varied neighbourhoods of Tokyo – from the technological subculture of Akihabara to the wild side of fashion in Harajuku and the nightlife of Roppongi – each suburb is almost like a city of its own!
  • Uncover the sobering history of Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Museum – a vital destination for all Japan travellers to gain an insight into the tragic events of the nation’s past.
  • Wander Kyoto’s Gion district, learn the traditional technique of hand-dying fabric with a creative workshop, then walk through Fushimi Inari-Taisha (the perfect spot for some iconic Japan photos).
  • Live your Samurai fantasies in feudal-era Kanazawa – known as the birthplace of the Samurai. Then, wander through gorgeous historic gardens and hit the bars to debrief with your group.

Trip Details

Duration

10 days

Transportation

Public Bus,Metro,Train,Bullet Train

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Tokyo, Japan

Finishes

Osaka, Japan

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 39 Year Olds Only

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Tokyo
Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan. Your adventure begins in Tokyo – the thriving capital of an ancient land – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not explore at your own pace. You could check out the free Sensoji Temple or the Imperial Palace, then hit up the Avatar Robot Café for lunch. This purpose-driven enterprise is not driven by AI at all – the waiters are actually operated by people living with disabilities. This is to give employees who have difficulty leaving their homes a better chance at employment. After your meeting, you might like to join your new travel buddies for an optional dinner in one of Tokyo’s most popular hubs.

Optional Activities:

  • Tokyo - Shinjuku-gyoen (500 JPY)
  • Tokyo - Studio Ghibli Museum (advance bookings required - from) (1000 JPY)
  • Tokyo - Sensoji Temple - Free
  • Tokyo - Imperial Palace - Free
  • Tokyo - Disneyland or Disney Sea (from) (7900 JPY)
  • Tokyo - A Tour Through Tokyo's Kitchen (with World's Largest Fish Market) Urban Adventure (11500 JPY)
  • Tokyo - Tsukiji Outer Market - Free
  • Tokyo - Wholesale Fish Market (relocated to Toyosu) - Free
  • Tokyo - Metropolitan Government Building observation deck - Free
  • Tokyo - Dawn Avatar Robot Café (1500 JPY)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (multi-share dorm) (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Tokyo
Head out to explore the Shibuya area with your group this morning. Look down on one of the busiest intersections in the world at Shibuya station and visit the statue of Hachiko – the famous loyal dog. Next, indulge your eyes and your belly at a depachika food hall, where vendors sell everything from bento boxes to formal gifts. Maybe grab lunch to eat in Yoyogi Park (home to many events from the first Japan Olympics) before your visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine. This afternoon, you’ll visit Harajuku – the home of quirky youth pop culture. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. If you’re a cat lover, the Gotokuji Cat Temple might be right up your alley. Tonight is also the perfect opportunity to hit Tokyo’s nightlife, whether you're enjoying yakitori at a bustling street stall in Omoide Yokocho or you’re belting out some tunes at karaoke.

Included Activities:

  • Tokyo - Meiji Jingu Shrine
  • Tokyo - Shibuya walking tour
  • Tokyo - Yoyogi Park
  • Tokyo - Harajuku street

Optional Activities:

  • Tokyo - Gotokuji Cat Temple - Free
  • Tokyo - Kanpai Tokyo: Shinjuku Drinks and Neon Nights Urban Adventure (18000 JPY)
  • Tokyo - Tokyo After 5 Urban Adventure (17000 JPY)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (multi-share dorm) (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Kanazawa
This morning, speed through central Japan on a bullet train bound for Kanazawa. This city is best known for Kenroku-en – the 17th-century gardens – and as the home of the Samurai. Here, you can find beautifully preserved Samurai and Geisha districts, historic temples and some awesome markets. After checking into your hotel, maybe explore Kenroku-en Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park. Tonight is a free evening so you can explore the streets at your own pace and maybe indulge in Kanazawa's izakaya and famed fresh seafood.

Optional Activities:

  • Kanazawa - Kenroku-en Gardens & Castle (320 JPY)
  • Kanazawa - Oyama Shrine - Free
  • Kanazawa - Omicho market tour - Free
  • Kanazawa - 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (excl. special exhibitions) - Free
  • Kanazawa - Nagamachi Samurai District (excl. museum entry) - Free

Accommodation:

  • Pod Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Kanazawa
Explore Kanazawa on foot today, on a walking tour of the Higashi Chaya district. Get lost among Geisha as you walk through alleyways and traditional Chaya houses, known locally as places of tradition, feasts and entertainment. If tea's your thing, perhaps enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at one of the local tea houses. The afternoon will then be free for you to explore on your own.

Included Activities:

  • Kanazawa - Higashi Chaya District walking tour

Accommodation:

  • Pod Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Kyoto
Today, catch a train through the Japanese Alps to Kyoto – once the imperial capital of Japan and one of the most beautiful cities in the country. With over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto is a great place to get lost in. With a good bus network linking all its key sites, you can hop on the bus to get around today – maybe visit the magnificent, gold-plated Kinkaku-ji Temple with its expansive grounds in Kyoto’s northwest, or Nijo Castle – the feudal-era castle famous for its squeaking ‘nightingale floors,’ designed to alert inhabitants to approaching ninja. In the early evening, meet up with your leader for a walk through Kyoto’s famous Gion district – the heart of the city’s Geisha culture.

Included Activities:

  • Kyoto - Gion District walk

Optional Activities:

  • Kyoto - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) (500 JPY)
  • Kyoto - Nijo Castle (800 JPY)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (multi-share dorm) (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Kyoto
Join your leader this morning for a cultural experience that dates to the 17th century – the Kyo-Yuzen dyeing technique. Unlike immersion dyeing, this involves using stencils to apply colour carefully to create delicate, original designs. You’ll have the choice of a handkerchief, a phone case or a tote bag (subject to stock availability), which you can then dye using this traditional hand-painting method. After your creative workshop, take a walk in the wooded hills near Fushimi Inari-Taisho, famous for its Shinto 'fox temple' and atmospheric red torii gates – a must-see for keen photographers. The afternoon is free for you to explore, and your leader can give you recommendations on what to see and how to get there. Cycling is also a great way to see the city, and renting a bike is inexpensive. It's your last night in Kyoto, so make sure you try some of Kyoto’s famed Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine) or wander the food market of Nishiki in the city’s heart.

Included Activities:

  • Kyoto - Fushimi Inari-Taisha
  • Kyoto - Kyo-Yuzen Dyeing Workshop

Optional Activities:

  • Kyoto - Imperial Palace - Free
  • Kyoto - Kiyomizu-dera (500 JPY)
  • Kyoto - Kimono/Maiko/Samurai Dress Up (from) (10000 JPY)
  • Kyoto - Arashiyama Monkey Park (800 JPY)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (multi-share dorm) (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a bustling metropolis with a tragic history and this morning, you’ll travel there via bullet train. When you arrive, your leader will take you to the Peace Park and the ruins of the A-Bomb Dome building – one of 11 structures left partially standing as a reminder of the destruction of nuclear war following the atomic bomb blast on 6 August 1945. The Peace Park contains monuments and a sobering museum dedicated to Hiroshima and international peace. The afternoon is free to rest, relax or continue exploring the city. Tonight, try Hiroshima’s most famous dish – okonomiyaki (savoury pancake of cabbage, meat or seafood) – grilled in front of you on a sizzling hotplate.

Included Activities:

  • Hiroshima - Peace Park & A - Bomb Dome
  • Hiroshima - Peace Museum

Accommodation:

  • Family Owned Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Hiroshima
Today you’ll jump on a local train and a ferry to spend the day at the nearby island of Miyajima with its famous 'floating' Torii Gate and the grand Itsukushima-jinja Shrine. Hike through the woods to the peak of Mt Misen for some stunning views of the Inland Sea stretching far out below you. Be sure to watch out for inquisitive and eternally hungry deer that roam the island. Back in Hiroshima, you can enjoy a free evening tonight.

Included Activities:

  • Hiroshima - Miyajima Island

Optional Activities:

  • Miyajima - Itsukushima-jinja Shrine (300 JPY)

Accommodation:

  • Family Owned Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Osaka
Travel by bullet train to Osaka today – what better way to finish your trip than in a city with the motto 'kuidaore' (eat until you drop)! Osaka is Japan's unofficial culinary capital, with its tiny backstreets overflowing with restaurants and bars serving up local delicacies. You can also discover Japan's answer to fast food – Osaka is credited with the first kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants after its inventor (the owner of a sushi restaurant with staffing issues) watched beer bottles on a conveyor belt at the nearby Asahi brewery. When you arrive, head out on a leader-led walking tour of the Dotombori district, famous for its shopping and entertainment. At night, this place is lit with the colour of hundreds of neon lights! If time allows, explore the vibrant Shinsekai district to see Osaka’s iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. For dinner, maybe try kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), or takoyaki (grilled octopus), an Osaka speciality.

Included Activities:

  • Osaka - Dotombori District walking tour

Optional Activities:

  • Osaka - Osaka Castle (600 JPY)
  • Osaka - Universal Studios (Day Pass - from) (8900 JPY)
  • Osaka - Dogusuji Arcade - Free
  • Osaka - Spa World (2000 JPY)
  • Osaka - Kaiten Sushi Train at Kura Sushi (from) (1200 JPY)

Accommodation:

  • Hostel (multi-share dorm) (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Osaka
There are no activities planned for today, and you can depart at any time after check out. If you’d like to extend your stay and explore the many neighbourhoods of Osaka, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $2,465
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 10 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Say Konnichiwa to Japan – a diverse land of culture, innovation and cuisine. With your new group of friends, you’ll get your fix of sushi and shopping in Tokyo before soaking up Kanazawa’s crazy Samurai culture (this is a great place to knock back a couple glasses of sake, too).

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 07 Jun 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Isabelle
Traveled, March 2024

04/03/2024

Excellent trip. Would recommend. Been able to see so much of Japan while I've been here, only thing is I wish I had more time :D

2.5
Tyler
Traveled, March 2024

04/01/2024

Essential Japan was the trip of a lifetime. Our tour guide Yuki made everything fun and easy to navigate in the bustling environment of Japan. Couldn’t recommend enough!! R

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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