Japan in a Week

Contiki (AU) · 8 days
Japan in a Week
8 Days
From AUD $2741
Trip Type
Group Tour
Activity Level
Easy

Rating


(10 reviews)

Japan in a Week

Japan in a Week

Contiki (AU) · 8 days
Duration

8 days

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodations

Deluxe

Physical Rating

Easy

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Kon'nichiwa, Japan! We may only have a week, but what a week it is. Kicking things off in Tokyo - an orchestra of light, sound and history - we’ll travel (like locals) on the metro, with guided temple tours before whizzing to Kyoto on a bullet train.

Highlights

Dining Summary

  • 3 Breakfast (B)

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 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: 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.

Trip Details

Duration

8 days

Transportation

Private

Tour Type

Group Tour

Guide Language

English

Starts

Tokyo, Japan

Finishes

Osaka, Japan

Accommodations

Deluxe

Travel Style

18 - 35 Year Olds Only

Physical Rating

Easy

Itinerary

1
Day 1: 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.

Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
2
Day 2: Tokyo
Today we'll get ready to uncover Tokyo (on the metro!). We'll kick off with the ancient Buddhist temple of Asakusa Senso-ji & the famous Meiji Jingu shrine. And then, you have a free afternoon 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.

Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
3
Day 3: Tokyo
Today is yours to do Tokyo your way. (Just don't forget to charge your transport card before you head off for the day!). Anime fan? Check out Akihabara, the ultimate anime & gaming district. Looking for something uniquely Japanese? Head to a cafe where you're served by robots, eat a kawaii lunch (like a curry shaped like a pink teddy bear), visit Ueno Park for the museums and monuments, or even check out a cosplay cafe. Oh, and 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.

Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
4
Day 4: 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, teahouses of Kyoto and Fushimi Inari Shrine. With no time to waste, we'll hop on our private coach for a sightseeing tour, exploring this glorious showcase of ancient Japan.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
5
Day 5: 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.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)
6
Day 6: Kyoto
There is still so much to see in Kyoto. Don a kimono and check out the bamboo forest, take some photos at the iconic Yasaka Pagoda or spot Geishas in the Gion district. Don't forget to sign up for the optional traditional tea ceremony and enjoy a cup of matcha tea.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)
7
Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka
It's just a short trip on the metro to Osaka this morning... And we have the whole day to explore. Check out 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.

Accommodation: Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
8
Day 8: Osaka
And just like that, the trip’s a wrap. Grab some brekkie, say your goodbyes, and soak up the final feels. Sticking around in Osaka? Lucky you - there’s still time to dive into this city’s epic food, culture, and you can’t forget Universal Studios. See ya soon!

Meals: Breakfast
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 will do 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.

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 $2,741
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 8 days

Trip Type: Group Tour

Activity Level: Easy

Kon'nichiwa, Japan! We may only have a week, but what a week it is. Kicking things off in Tokyo - an orchestra of light, sound and history - we’ll travel (like locals) on the metro, with guided temple tours before whizzing to Kyoto on a bullet train.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 09 May 2026

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
5.0
Ellen Abbott S.
Traveled, January 2025

02/13/2025

Everything was absolutely amazing! From incredible knowledge & recommendations to bonding with everyone from different walks of life... everything gelled perfectly! I'd have to say my favorite highlight would be the final dinner with everyone, it was the best way to end the most incredible trip!!! I loved this contiki! Too easy! From the Contiki website, I easily booked with a deposit & from there the countdown was on! For only being a one week trip, Contiki & Jazz made it jam packed with adventure, fun & laughter!!! Jazz's local knowledge truly elevated my experience and helped me learn, explore & understand the Japanese culture more than I ever thought I would! I really immersed myself in it!! I loved & also very much appreciated the perfect mix of exploration and free time - there were so many options of things to do for different types of people! Anime, food, shopping and so so so much more! No matter your interests there was absolutely something to do! Even if you needed a nap, the accommodation was NOICE! My trip was filled to the brim with smiles & good & everlasting memories!!!

4.5
Anonymous
Traveled, November 2024

11/20/2024

Everyone on the trip was amazing. Yujir was the greatest guide ever and the local guides we had in Tokyo and Kyoto were also amazing. The other people on the trip were amazing and I am happy to say I became life long friends with them. Trip was super easy to book and manage. Contiki was very good at communicating what we needed to do to prepare as the trip got closer.

Tour Operator

Contiki Tours, founded in 1962, is a global travel company specializing in group tours exclusively for 18–35-year-olds, offering over 300 trips across more than 50 countries. Known for its strong social focus, Contiki blends adventure, cultural immersion, and nightlife with the convenience of fully organized itineraries. The brand is part of The Travel Corporation and differentiates itself through unique “Special Stays,” curated experiences, and a community-driven atmosphere that attracts solo travelers and young groups alike. With sustainability initiatives under its “Contiki Cares” program, the company also emphasizes responsible travel, making it a leading choice for younger travelers seeking connection, discovery, and memorable experiences.

In Business Since 1962