Visions of Japan with Osaka
Visions of Japan with Osaka
Visions of Japan with Osaka
13 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Osaka, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Asia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
OPE2-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan with the "Visions of Japan with Osaka" tour. Begin in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, where you'll explore iconic landmarks and enjoy a day trip to the majestic Mount Fuji. Travel through the scenic Japanese Alps to Takayama, visit the historic Matsumoto Castle, and experience the unique Gassho-Zukuri houses in Shirakawa. Discover the cultural treasures of Kanazawa and Kyoto, including the stunning Kinkakuji Temple and the ancient art of Yuzen dyeing. Conclude your adventure in Osaka, where you'll delve into the city's vibrant food scene and historical sites. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and culinary delights.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Tokyo,Japan
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hilton Tokyo
Welcome to Tokyo, Japan’s capital city. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.
Day 2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hilton Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
TOKYO Monumental Metropolis Start with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. At an artist’s studio, learn to write like a local during a calligraphy lesson with a master calligrapher, have the opportunity to try on a traditional kimono, and partake in a [LF] tea ceremony. After lunch, visit the Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower. Last stop is the Asakusa Kannon Temple and Nakamise shopping arcade. Tonight, join your travel companions at a welcome dinner hosted by your Tour Director. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITEPLANNED TO A TEA Participate in a tea ceremony, the ancient tradition and carefully choreographed ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea.TOUR HIGHLIGHTSKY HIGH At Tokyo Skytree, ascend to Sorakara Point. On floor 450 at some 450 meters or 1500 feet, it is the highest point visitors can explore. Here you’ll have stunning panoramic views over the city and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji.
Day 3: Tokyo. Mount Fuji Excursion
Location: Mount Fuji
Accommodation Name: Hilton Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
TOKYO. MOUNT FUJI EXCURSION Soaring Heights & Sweeping Sights From a drive to Kamakura to dizzying views of Mount Fuji to a cruise on Lake Ashi, your day is a feast for the eyes. Conclude the day with a thrilling shinkansen (bullet train) ride back to Tokyo! (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SCENIC SIGHTS Drive south along the coast to Kamakura to see the 750-year-old Great Buddha. Continue to Hakone where you’ll take a cable-car ride for panoramic views of spectacular Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain. After lunch, cruise on Lake Ashi for more views of this beautiful area.
Day 4: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hilton Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore the city. FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE Tokyo has something for everyone so visit one of the city’s unique neighborhoods like Ginza or Shibuya districts, dine at the street food markets, or catch a game at the Tokyo Dome.
Day 5: Tokyo,Matsumoto,Takayama
Location: Matsumoto
Accommodation Name: Hotel Associa Takayama Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
TOKYO–MATSUMOTO–TAKAYAMA City to Farm to Table Journey to Matsumoto, gateway to the ruggedly beautiful Japanese Alps. Visit a local wasabi farm and Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure of Japan dating back to the 16th Century. Tonight, enjoy a wonderful Japanese-style dinner at your hotel. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTWHY WASABI? Take a private tour of a wasabi farm to learn more about how it’s grown and the importance of wasabi in Japanese culture and cuisine. Eat lunch at the farm and sample wasabi ice cream.
Day 6: Takayama
Location: Takayama
Accommodation Name: Hotel Associa Takayama Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
TAKAYAMA Takayama Treasures Today begins at the morning market, where farmers display locally grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Visit Takayama Jinya, a former government office during the Edo Period from 1692-1868. This well-preserved building is a national historic site and the only remaining building of its kind in Japan. End with a fun [LF] sake tasting. This evening, you have the option to stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan (additional fee and pre-booking required). (B)LOCAL FAVORITEFOR SAKE’S SAKE Go sake tasting in the San-Machi Suji historic district—famous for lacquerware shops and sake breweries, and identified by the “sugidama,” balls made of cedar branches that adorn the entrances. FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE After included sightseeing, the balance of the day is at leisure, providing you with time to explore the narrow streets where merchants buy and sell as they have for 300 years. Transfers between town and your resort will run every two hours.ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTChoose an overnight stay at a ryokan to fully immerse yourself in the Japanese culture and hospitality. Your ryokan features traditional touches like tatami mat floors, a thin sleeping mattress, and the chance to experience a Japanese-style bath – as well as the modern convenience of a private bathroom. Traditional Japanese dinner and breakfast are included in your stay. Please note that space is limited. Pre-booking and additional fee required.
Day 7: Takayama,Shirakawa,Kanazawa
Location: Kanazawa
Accommodation Name: Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
TAKAYAMA–SHIRAKAWA–KANAZAWA Enchanting Valleys & Tranquil Gardens This morning, enjoy a drive through the mountainous Shokawa Valley to Shirakawa; a remote region of Japan home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here explore the unique Gassho-Zukuri style (joined hands) thatched houses that can be found only here. Continue to the scenic town of Kanazawa, situated between the mountains and the Sea of Japan. Explore Kenroku-en Garden and take part in a gold leaf class, where you’ll learn about this ancient craft and make your own bento box. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTTHE POWER OF TRANQUILITY Kenroku-en is one of Japan’s three great gardens and dates from the 1670s. Translated to English the name means “Garden of Six Qualities,” referring to the six essential attributes that make up a perfect garden: spaciousness, tranquility, artifice, antiquity, water, and magnificent views. One of the garden’s most stunning attractions is Kasumigaike pond with its island called Horai, which is meant to symbolize long life and eternal prosperity.
Day 8: Kanazawa,Kyoto
Location: Kanazawa
Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
KANAZAWA–KYOTO Sushi, Shrines & Temples This morning, drive south to Kyoto. On arrival, participate in a [LF] Japanese cooking class for lunch. Then, you’ll visit two of the city’s most important sites: Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITECULTURAL TREASURES Japan is known for its cuisine, which is deeply engrained into the culture. What better way to gain insights into the local way of life than through your generations of traditional dishes? Participate in a special cooking class under the instruction of a local chef to learn how to make miso soup, teriyaki chicken, and makizushi, more commonly known as a sushi roll.TOUR HIGHLIGHTSENSATIONAL SHRINES While in Kyoto one must take a step back in time to explore this historic former capital and its important wooden shrines and temples. Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for the thousands of brightly hued Torii Gates. Afterward, continue to the Higashiyama District to visit Kiyomizu Temple, the “Pure Water Temple,” with stunning views over Kyoto. Along the way, walk through the busy streets, where shops and restaurants have been catering to pilgrims for centuries.
Day 9: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast
KYOTO Golden Gift This morning starts with a visit to stunning Kinkakuji, the Temple of the Gold Pavilion. Next, visit Yuzen Handmade Corner to learn about the Yuzen dyeing technique used to decorate kimonos by painting dye directly on the cloth. Make your own souvenir using this traditional method. End the day at Sanjusajendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Flanking the main statue are 1,000 more life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf, with 40 arms believed to have the power to save 25 worlds! (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE Join your Tour Director for a walking tour through Gion or visit more of Kyoto’s historic temples. This and many more options throughout your tour may be available for purchase with MyGlobus.
Day 10: Kyoto,Nara Excursion
Location: Nara
Accommodation Name: The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
KYOTO–NARA EXCURSION Larger than Life Travel to nearby Nara to visit Kasuga Shrine and Todaiji Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Japan. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHTNARA GIANTS Travel to Nara Park, one of the largest in Japan, and famous for its free-roaming deer amid its shrines and temples. Kasuga Shrine, the most celebrated in Nara, is a Shinto shrine with some 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns. On the opposite end of the park is Todaiji Temple, one of Japan’s most significant temples. Originally built in 752 AD and again after a fire in 1692, the temple is only two-thirds its original size yet remains one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. The Daibutsu (Giant Buddha) inside the main hall is made of copper and bronze, weighs 250 tons and is 49 feet tall.
Day 11: Kyoto,Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation Name: Hilton Osaka
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
KYOTO–OSAKA Old Town to the Big City Transfer by bullet train to Osaka, known for its food, history, and nightlife. Join your Local Guide for enriching discoveries in the city. TOUR HIGHLIGHTBEST SIGHTS & SAVORY BITES Enjoy sightseeing with your Local Guide at Osaka Castle and the surrounding park. Visit Minami, the city’s most famous entertainment district, encompassing the districts of Shinsaibashi and Namba and the famed Dontonbori Street. Enjoy lunch featuring okonomiyaki, a delicious savory pancake dish famous in Osaka. Then, explore this exciting area on foot with your guide. From museums and shopping to theater and dining, this is where the locals come for fun. (B,L)
Day 12: Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation Name: Hilton Osaka
Meals Included: Breakfast
OSAKA Easy Exploration Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE Return to Minami for further exploration or perhaps visit the Open-Air Museum of Japanese Farm Houses. Whatever you choose to do, we’ve included a subway and bus pass to make exploring easy.
Day 13: Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation Name: Hilton Osaka
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at Hilton Tokyo, Hotel Associa Takayama Resort, Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto, and Hilton Osaka.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, and 3 dinners are included.
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Transportation
Includes a thrilling shinkansen (bullet train) ride and other local transportation.
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Guided Tours
Expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides are included to ensure a comprehensive experience.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to Kasuga Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, Mount Fuji, Shirakawa (Gassho-Zukuri houses), and Todaiji Temple.
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Small Group Discoveries
Limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure, ensuring extra space and a more personalized experience.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and related expenses are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 3 dinners
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Kasuga Shrine|Kiyomizu Temple|Mount Fuji|Shirakawa (Gassho-Zukuri houses)|Temple of the Gold Pavilion|Todaiji Temple
Accommodation
Stay in luxurious accommodations including Hilton Tokyo, Hotel Associa Takayama Resort, Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto, and Hilton Osaka.
Mode of Transport
Travel by bullet train, cable car, and cruise on Lake Ashi, with additional transportation by coach for various excursions.
Notes
Mount Fuji cable-car ride is dependent upon weather conditions. Optional overnight stay at a traditional ryokan requires pre-booking with additional fee.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at various hotels in different cities: Hilton Tokyo in Tokyo, Hotel Associa Takayama Resort in Takayama, Hotel Nikko Kanazawa in Kanazawa, The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto in Kyoto, and Hilton Osaka in Osaka.
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Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Kasuga Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, Mount Fuji, Shirakawa (Gassho-Zukuri houses), and Todaiji Temple.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes breakfast daily, 6 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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What activities are planned for the day in Kyoto?
In Kyoto, you will visit Kinkakuji (the Temple of the Gold Pavilion), learn about the Yuzen dyeing technique at the Yuzen Handmade Corner, and visit Sanjusajendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
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What can I expect during the Mount Fuji excursion?
During the Mount Fuji excursion, you will drive to Kamakura to see the Great Buddha, take a cable-car ride in Hakone for panoramic views of Mount Fuji, cruise on Lake Ashi, and conclude the day with a shinkansen (bullet train) ride back to Tokyo.
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Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, there are days with free time for you to explore on your own, such as Day 4 in Tokyo and Day 12 in Osaka.
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What is the Small-Group Discovery option?
The Small-Group Discovery option is available on select tour dates and is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. It includes all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, with extra space between travelers and a focus on health and safety.
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What unique experiences are included in Kanazawa?
In Kanazawa, you will explore Kenroku-en Garden and take part in a gold leaf class where you will learn about the ancient craft and make your own bento box.
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What will I see in Osaka?
In Osaka, you will visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park, explore the Minami entertainment district, and enjoy lunch featuring okonomiyaki, a famous pancake dish in Osaka.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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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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