Japan Real Food Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 11 days

4.2

10 Reviews

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Duration

11 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Take your tastebuds on an 11-day culinary journey through Japan’s most delicious hotspots, relishing the flavours of the land of the rising sun.

Highlights

Learn the tricks of the trade when you take part in a hands-on sushi-making class in Tokyo, pick local produce from the market before a cooking class in Kanazawa and make your own okonomiyaki in Osaka.
Meet local farmers during a daytrip from Kyoto to the Uji region, the home of green tea production. Tour the green tea and matcha farms, enjoy a hot cuppa, then walk the streets of Uji city, stopping on the way to see the Ujiami Shrine.
Enjoy iconic experiences like wandering the streets of Tokyo, Kenroku-en garden in Kanazawa, the glowing signs of Osaka’s Dotonbori district, learning Buddhist history in Koya-san and walking through Kyoto’s Gion district.
Feast on delicious Japanese cuisine, from street food to restaurant favourites – including ekiben, sushi, matcha, takoyaki, okonomiyaki and fresh seafood.
Sip on sake, the national drink of Japan, during a visit to a local sake brewery in Kyoto. Learn how sake is made and maybe even pick up a bottle (or two) to take home.

Trip Details

Duration

11 days

Transportation

Bus,Train,Bullet train

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Tokyo, Japan

Finishes

Osaka, Japan

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan. Between the freshest ingredients and generations of culinary know-how, this is a country that celebrates the art of eating well. Your adventure begins in Tokyo – a food lover’s dream. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you get to Tokyo with time to spare, you may like to head out to explore the different sides of the city, from fascinating museums to neighbourhood backstreets lined with izakaya and karaoke bars. After your meeting, it’s time to get acquainted with local cuisine over a welcome dinner with your group. Fancy some perfectly grilled yakitori skewers or super tasty soba noodles? You’re in the right place. Once dinner’s done and stomachs are full, maybe head out to explore Shibuya's backstreets in search of sake or a couple of local cocktails.

Included Activities:

Tokyo - Welcome dinner

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Tokyo

Kick off the day with a walk around the famous Tsukiji Outer Market, where seafood from Tokyo's largest wholesale fish market is delivered and ready to sample daily. After, learn the art of sushi making firsthand – it's the quintessential Edo-era specialty and possibly Japan's most famous culinary gift to the world. Hear about the history of sushi, how to choose the best fish, learn proper slicing and rice-making techniques and sample some seriously fresh sushi. Then, enjoy free time to explore the historic Asakusa area. Stop by Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple, founded almost 1400 years ago. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, then Asakusa is the place to get your fix. Try fried sweet potatoes tossed in sugar and soy or sweet red bean paste sandwiched between baked pancake batter. Tonight, why not head to Tsukishima to tuck into one of Tokyo's most traditional dishes, monjayaki (a type of savoury pancake).

Included Activities:

Tokyo - Asakusa guided walk & Sensoji Temple
Tokyo - Tsukiji Outer Market & Sushi Tasting
Tokyo - Art of Sushi-making class

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Kanazawa

Take the train towards Japan's northern coastline to the historic city of Kanazawa. Having avoided much of the destruction of World War 2, it's a place where modern and traditional Japan go hand in hand. On the train, you’ll be treated to ekiben for lunch (a bento box popularly sold on trains). When you arrive, join your leader on an orientation walk around the city, followed by a visit to the Chaya Gai district. With its well-preserved streets and old wooden tea houses, this is where geisha perform music and dance for small private functions. In the evening, join your leader for an optional dinner to sample local dishes bursting with regional flavour, particularly fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan. The unique blend of warm and cold currents creates the perfect conditions for a wide variety of fish and shellfish year-round, including the famed Kano crabs and sweet prawns.

Included Activities:

Kanazawa - Leader-led orientation walk
Kanazawa – Chaya gai district walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Kanazawa

This morning after breakfast, visit the lush, 17th-century Kenroku-en Garden – a highly intricate landscaped acreage of bridges, ponds, waterfalls, fountains and tea houses that are beautiful no matter the season. Perhaps stop for a cup of freshly whisked matcha tea on your stroll through the extensive grounds. Then, take a walk around Omicho market – the hub of Kanazawa’s food culture. Explore the stalls and seek out the best seasonal ingredients, learning how to spot the freshest seafood and vegetables along the way. Then head to a local home for a cooking class with an expert foodie. Pick up some tips and tricks on how to cook local cuisine, learn the history of Kanazawa’s favourite foods and then enjoy the fruits of your labour for lunch. This afternoon, you’re free to explore Kanazawa at your leisure.

Included Activities:

Kanazawa - Kenroku-en Garden
Kanazawa - Home cooking class
Kanazawa - Omicho market tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Kyoto

Today, you’ll make your way by train to Kyoto – a city regarded as the cultural heart of Japan. Before Tokyo, Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years. When you arrive, get acquainted with this gorgeous city on an orientation walk with your leader, making your way to the narrow streets of Kyoto's charming Gion district. Here, you’ll learn about the city’s geisha culture. If you’re lucky, you might spot geiko (geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha) in their elaborate dress and makeup. Join your leader for an optional dinner to sample some of Kyoto's trademark cuisine, like nishin soba (soba noodles with dried herring) or gyu katsu (beef cutlet).

Included Activities:

Kyoto - Leader-led orientation walk
Kyoto - Gion District walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Kyoto

Today, gear up for a fun daytrip to Uji – this small city between Kyoto and Nara is a cultural hub famous for its green tea. The Ujigami Shrine is also the oldest extant shrine in Japan and was constructed here (along with the historic Byodoin Temple) during the height of the Fujiwara clan’s power, between 794 and 1192. Known for its superior quality since the 1100s, a hot cup of Uji’s green tea is a must-have while you’re here, so you’ll be taken to a local tea farm for an insight into the growing and harvesting process. Hear about the history of Japan's tea cultivation and production, then taste five different Japanese teas as you learn how to brew sencha and matcha using traditional utensils. After, you'll take a leader-led walk around Uji City, stopping along the way to visit the shrine. Then, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace.

Included Activities:

Uji - Green Tea Farm Visit with tea tasting

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Kyoto

Tuck into some breakfast this morning, then head out for another day of exploration around Kyoto. You’ll first visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, where you’ll have some time to wander through the iconic torii gates. Snap a few pics, then refuel your energy at a local sake brewery, where you might like to pick up a bottle to take home. Continue on for a food crawl through the glass-covered Nishiki Market. This 400-year-old market is the perfect spot to pick up a few local street eats for lunch, so you’ll follow your local leader and pick out a few favourites – maybe try tako-tamago (translating to octopus egg, this must-try is a savoury surprise of baby octopus with a quails egg inserted into the head after cooking!), beef sushi, matcha sweets or tamagoyaki (an omelette filled with cabbage, carrots, green and white onions and pickled ginger). The rest of the day is free to enjoy Kyoto, whether that means walking off your food baby or heading to a local park for a rest in the sun.

Included Activities:

Kyoto - Nishiki Market walk
Kyoto - Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kyoto - Sake Brewery & tasting

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Koya-san

Rise early, hop on the train and venture into an important region for Shingon Buddhism. Founded in the 8th century by the revered Buddhist saint Kobo Daishi, Koya-san has been a centre for religious activities for over 1200 years. When you arrive, visit Okuno-in – the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. Your unique accommodation tonight is in one of the many temples still operating here. You’ll stay alongside Buddhist monks and follow their routine of morning prayers. Tonight, enjoy an introduction to shojin ryori, or monastic cuisine, prepared by novice monks. Shojin ryori was popularised in Japan in the 13th century by Zen monks from China. Shojin ryori is plant-based and prohibits the inclusion of meat and fish, following the teaching that it is wrong to kill living animals. Instead, meals are prepared with seasonable vegetables and wild plants from the mountains.

Included Activities:

Koya-san - Okuno-in Mausoleum

Accommodation:

Temple (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Osaka

Hop on public transport this morning to Osaka – Japan’s third-largest city and the unofficial culinary capital. Sprawling shopping hubs and tiny backstreets full of restaurants and bars serve up local delicacies here, as well as Japan's answer to fast food (Osaka is credited with the first kaiten-zushi, or conveyer belt sushi restaurants). When you arrive, visit the lively Kuromon food market for a morning walk through the quirky Doguyasuji Arcade, where you can pick up some kitchen gadgets (or plastic food!) and all the Japanese bowls you’ll ever need. You’ll also learn about one of Osaka’s signature dishes and try your hand at perfecting okonomiyaki. A tasty okonomiyaki lunch will be included afterwards. This evening, maybe dive into Osaka’s twisting back alleys and experience one of the city’s typical tachinomi bars (drinking while standing), maybe sharing a few drinks with your travel pals.

Included Activities:

Osaka – Tour of Kuromon Market and Doguyasuji Arcade

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Osaka

Have some breakfast this morning, then pop into a depachika – the food basement hall of one of Japan's department stores. This is a treasure trove for food lovers, given the endless range of products beautifully displayed. It’s also one of the best ways to understand what the locals eat on a daily basis. Wander the Dotonbori district with your group this afternoon at the heart of Osaka. This bustling district, known for the iconic glowing signs all over the canal, is the go-to destination for local nightlife, delicious cuisine and diverse shopping options. Enjoy a few included snacks along the way, then you’re free for the afternoon to continue exploring at your own pace. Regroup with your fellow travellers tonight for a farewell dinner of kushikatsu (skewered meat and vegetables, battered and deep fried).

Included Activities:

Osaka - Dotonbori Tour
Osaka – Depachika visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Osaka

With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. You’re free to leave anytime after check-out, but your adventure doesn’t have to end here! Osaka has so much to explore, it’s recommended that you stay a few extra days and continue to feast on the city’s many foodie favourites.

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 $7,110

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 11 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Take your tastebuds on an 11-day culinary journey through Japan’s most delicious hotspots, relishing the flavours of the land of the rising sun.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 23 May 2027

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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

5.0

Andrew

Traveled, September 2023

10/05/2023

Our food trip was the trip of a lifetime. It was not just about food. Between sampling delicious Japanese cuisine we got to see a lot of local culture, and sampled food in places normally only visited by locals. It really could not have been better. Thank you to Yuko our awesome guide and thanks to Intrepid

4.0

Julie

Traveled, September 2023

09/20/2023

Had a really great time on Japan Real Food Tour- while not fine dining the food was varied and interesting. We had a wonderful group, up for anything. Hotels were a bit hit and miss and some of the breakfasts were shocking , while others were gorgeous. Our leader was fantastic and she really helped make this tour special.

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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