Japan Winter Wonder | 2024-2025
Japan Winter Wonder | 2024-2025
Japan Winter Wonder | 2024-2025
10 Days Starting in Osaka and ending in Tokyo
Visiting: Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Hakone, Tokyo
Tour Overview
Say kon'nichiwa to the land of sushi, samurai & sake! In a country where the ancient and the modern collide in truly mesmerising style, you’ll make your way from Osaka to Tokyo, taking in temples, teppanyaki, geishas and gardens, plus miniature deer along the way.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation: Elcient Osaka (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda (or similar)
Kon'nichiwa friends, and welcome to the land of the rising sun. Famed for its beauty, culture, cuisine and just a touch of crazy, this is one trip you won't be forgetting any time soon. Get settled into your hotel before joining forces with your Trip Manager & travel crew & head out to explore the local area.
Day 2: Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation: Elcient Osaka (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Osaka Umeda (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Osaka is all yours today! Head to Osaka Castle or Sumiyoshi-taisa for a dose of history, or to Nara to meet the cutest deers ever! This evening, you have the option to gobble down a delicious meal at an Izakaya - traditional little restaurants with rice beer, sake & locals finishing up their days. Still not done for the day? We sense some traditional Japanese PATI (that's Japanese for partying) and karaoke may be on the cards....
Day 3: Osaka To Kyoto
Location: Osaka, Kyoto
Accommodation: Elcient Kyoto (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tuck in to your tasty breakfast this morning, you're going to need the food fuel for a full day in Kyoto. Arriving into Kyoto, we'll kick things off with a guided tour of this beautiful, traditional city. Take in the sights of the city including temples, gardens, colourful shrines & world famous geisha girls. This evening is free for you to get to know Kyoto your way, most likely trying out local cuisine in the Shirakawa area & getting to grips with the buzzy Kyoto nightlife.
Day 4: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: Elcient Kyoto (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Styles Kyoto Station (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 5: Kyoto To Hiroshima
Location: Kyoto, Hiroshima
Accommodation: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ready for a totally new experience? This morning it's all aboard the bullet train, travelling at a cool 320km/hr as we make our way to Hiroshima. A city remembered as the world's first atomic bomb target during WWII, we'll learn about both the past and present on a sightseeing tour. The rest of the day will then be free to get to know Hiroshima however suits you best - food, shopping, history, it's all here at your fingertips.
Day 6: Hiroshima (Including Miyajima)
Location: Hiroshima, Miyajima, Hiroshima
Accommodation: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vista Hiroshima (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We'll start the day with a ferry ride over to Miyajima Island where beautiful scenery and miniature deer await us. If you're impressed by the traditional Japanese gates at the entrance, just wait until you've seen the main event - the stunning Itsukushima Shrine. Culture goals ticked, we'll make our way back to Hiroshima to dig a little deeper into the city's noble history.
Day 7: Hiroshima To Tokyo (Including Hakone)
Location: Hiroshima, Hakone, Tokyo
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tokyo you're firmly in our sights but on route, we'll make a stop in the peaceful mountain town of Hakone. Breathtaking views of some of Japan's most famous sights are courtesy of the Hakone Ropeway. If the weather plays nice...you might spot the magnificent Mount Fuji. Welcome to the bright lights & big city vibes of Tokyo, our home for the next 3 nights. You'll have the night to use as you wish. How about heading to Shinjuku, the epicentre of Tokyo's gritty but super fun night scene.
Day 8: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We'll dive right into this 24 hour city with a sightseeing tour of the best bits. We'll take a walk down Nakamise Street (one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan that dates back to the 1500's) to pick up treasures for family and friends back home, brave the busiest street crossing in the world (Shibuya), then round things off at the epicentre of youth culture & fashion, Harajuku. This part of town buzzes with cool vibes & crazy fashion, and we reckon you'll instantly fall in lust.
Day 9: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's our last day in Tokyo, and our last day on tour, so let's make it one to remember. With a free day to explore Japan your way, we have a sneaking suspicion Harajuku may be calling you back - it kind of has that affect on people. Or even better, a chance to visit a unique remote-operated robot restaurant. You gotta see it to believe it!
Day 10: End Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast
And just like that, it's all over. Japan crew, it's been a hell of a 10 days, and we have a sneaking suspicion this isn't a forever goodbye…
What's Included
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Accommodations
Stay in comfortable hotels like Elcient Osaka, Elcient Kyoto, Hotel Vista Hiroshima, and Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel or similar throughout the tour.
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Meals
Enjoy daily breakfasts and experience local cuisine with opportunities for additional foodie experiences.
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Transportation
Travel in style with included bullet train rides and all internal transport.
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Guided Tours
Benefit from guided tours in Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Tokyo, including visits to major attractions like the Peace Park, Itsukushima Shrine, and Nakamise Street.
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Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with visits to tea houses, temples, shrines, and opportunities to see geishas and samurai history.
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Scenic Views
Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from Hakone and scenic ferry rides to Miyajima Island.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
Flights to and from Japan are not included and must be arranged by travelers.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory but not included.
Please arrange your own. -
Some Meals
Not all meals are covered.
Some lunches and dinners will be at your own expense, giving you the freedom to explore local cuisine. -
Personal Expenses
Expenses for personal nature like souvenirs, laundry, and other personal items are not included.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities mentioned in the itinerary are not included in the tour price and will incur additional costs.
Dining Summary
- 9 Breakfast (B)
FAQs
- Nara: Do I need a visa to enter Japan? Generally, not. Most of our travellers can get a visa on arrival in Japan. But your visa requirements can change according to your citizenship (and also according to the length and purpose of your visit). We always recommend that you check out our visa guide for more information.
- 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
- Kyoto: Tea houses. Kiyomizu Temple. The Golden Pavilion. Geishas. It’s all so surreal. You’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a film set.
- 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.
- Hakone: Prepare to be impressed. An awesome cable car ride is set against dream-like views of Mount Fuji.
- 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 Shoken. 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.
Check out our Q&As
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What are the highlights of the Japan Winter Wonder tour?
The highlights of the Japan Winter Wonder tour include visiting Kyoto's tea houses, Nijo Castle, The Golden Pavilion, and experiencing geishas; commemorating lives lost in Hiroshima at the Peace Park and Peace Memorial Museum; exploring Tokyo's Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple, Meiji Temple, Harajuku, and the Shibuya Crossing; and enjoying scenic views of Mount Fuji from Hakone.
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What type of accommodations can I expect on this tour?
On the Japan Winter Wonder tour, you can expect to stay in comfortable hotels like Elcient Osaka, Elcient Kyoto, Hotel Vista Hiroshima, and Daiichi Ryogoku Hotel or similar throughout the tour.
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Are meals included in the Japan Winter Wonder tour?
Yes, daily breakfasts are included in the Japan Winter Wonder tour, along with opportunities to experience local cuisine and additional foodie experiences.
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What kind of transportation will be used during the tour?
The tour includes bullet train rides and all internal transport, ensuring you travel in style throughout your journey in Japan.
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What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour offers cultural experiences such as visits to tea houses, temples, shrines, and opportunities to see geishas and learn about samurai history.
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What are the exclusions of the tour?
The exclusions of the tour include international flights, travel insurance, some meals (some lunches and dinners will be at your own expense), personal expenses like souvenirs, laundry, and other personal items, and any optional activities mentioned in the itinerary.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The starting location of the tour is Osaka.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The ending location of the tour is Tokyo.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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