Japan Uncovered

Japan Uncovered

Osaka

Dotonbori

Days 1-4
Nara

Nara

Day 3
Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

Days 4-5
CRISTINA TIRON
Miyajima, Japan
Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan

Day 5
Kyoto

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Days 6-7
Kanazawa, Japan
Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan

Days 8-9
3 ya
Takayama, Japan
Takayama

Takayama, Japan

Days 9-10
Tokyo

Shibuya Crossing

Days 14-15
Tokyo

Tokyo Tower

Day 17

Map
13K Views
17 Days From

$7782

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Japan Uncovered" tour, a cultural journey through Japan's rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Begin in Osaka, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture before exploring the historic city of Nara. Marvel at the grandeur of Himeji Castle and the serene beauty of Koko-en Garden. In Hiroshima, reflect on history at the Peace Memorial Park and visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Experience the art of washi paper making and explore the charming village of Shirakawago. Discover the vibrant city of Kyoto, with its zen gardens and traditional tea ceremonies. Ascend the slopes of Mt. Fuji, cruise on Lake Ashi, and explore the bustling streets of Tokyo, including the famous Shibuya Crossing. This tour offers a blend of guided experiences and leisure time, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of Japan's cultural and natural wonders. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Watch as water laps over the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.

  • Learn washi paper making and visit a miso house and a wasabi farm.

  • Wander through the thatched-roof village of Shirakawago.

  • Stop in amazement at the dramatic flair of the Matsumoto Castle.

  • Meet the adorable Snow Monkeys in Yudanaka.

  • Ascend the slopes of Mt Fuji and take a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi.

  • Explore the vibrant Asakusa district and soak up the ambiance of Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple.

Itinerary

Expand All

Days 1-2: Fly to Osaka

Universal Studios Japan
Osaka Castle
Universal Studios Japan
Osaka Castle

Location: Osaka

Accommodation Name: Hotel Monterey Osaka

Meals Included: Dinner

Fly overnight to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start soaking up the local culture.

Day 3: Discover Nara

Osaka Castle
Nara Deer Park, Japan
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan

Location: Nara, Todaiji Temple, Isuien Garden, Osaka, Osaka Castle

Accommodation Name: Hotel Monterey Osaka

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spend the morning in Nara, the small, history-filled city that was Japan's first capital. Stroll through Nara Park to Todaiji Temple and admire the traditional Isuien Garden. Return to Osaka and visit the impressive Osaka Castle.

Day 4: Himeji Castle

Osaka Castle
CRISTINA TIRON Hiroshima, Japan
Universal Studios Japan
Hiroshima, Japan
Universal Studios Japan
Osaka Castle

Location: Osaka, Himeji Castle, Koko-en, Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: Grand Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart Osaka for Hiroshima, stopping en route to explore the magnificent 17th Century Himeji Castle and the neighbouring Koko-en, a traditional-style garden.

Day 5: Explore Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan
CRISTINA TIRON Hiroshima, Japan
Miyajima, Japan

Location: Hiroshima, Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

Accommodation Name: Grand Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiroshima is a vibrant, forward-thinking city that is a pleasure to explore. Reflect on the city's tragic past at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum paying homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb. Next, hop on the ferry across to the holy island of Miyajima to visit the Itsukushima Shrine and enjoy time at leisure.

Day 6: Bullet Train to Kyoto

Gion District
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Location: Kyoto, Ryoanji Temple, Kinkakuji Temple

Accommodation Name: Rihga Gran Kyoto

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start the day with a journey by bullet train to Kyoto. Capital for 1,000 years, this

enchanting city is the epitome of traditional Japan. Visit Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's most famous zen garden and Kinkakuji Temple, also known as 'Golden Pavilion'.

Day 7: Japanese Tea Ceremony

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Gion District
Gion District
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Fushimi Inari Shrine

Location: Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Rihga Gran Kyoto

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy one of Kyoto's most delightful spots, Kiyomizu, a 17th-century Buddhist temple, before experiencing the age-old rituals of a traditional tea ceremony. After lunch, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its 10,000 vermilion torii gates.

Day 8: Travel to Kanazawa

3 ya Kanazawa, Japan

Location: Kanazawa, Kenrokuen

Accommodation Name: Hotel Vista Kanazawa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel by road to Kanazawa. Meander through Kenrokuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, before visiting a historic samurai house.

Day 9: Washi Paper Making

Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
3 ya Kanazawa, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan

Location: Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takayama

Accommodation Name: Mercure Hida Takayama

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit the Nomura Samurai House and Garden before departing Kanazawa. Stop in Gokayama for lunch and a hands-on washi paper making workshop. Continue to Shirakawago, where you will explore the 300-year-old Gassho-style Wada House,

before reaching Takayama.

Day 10: Explore Takayama

Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan
Takayama, Japan

Location: Takayama, Miyagawa Morning Market, Takayama, Takayama Jinya, Takayama, Festival Floats Museum, Takayama, Kusakabe Folk Crafts Museum, Takayama, Kamisannomachi Street, Takayama

Accommodation Name: Mercure Hida Takayama

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Browse the local handicrafts and fresh produce at the Miyagawa morning market, wander past some of the lovely traditional houses and visit Takayama Jinya. Also visit several of the excellent local museums, including the Festival Floats Museum, Kusakabe Folk Crafts Museum and Takayama Jinya, followed by a stroll down Kamisannomachi Street.

Day 11: Travel to Nagano

Location: Matsumoto, Nagano

Accommodation Name: Metropolitan Nagano Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to Matsumoto and explore the formidable 16th-century Matsumoto Castle. Visit a miso house and learn about this famous Japanese seasoning. Go on to continue to Nagano.

Day 12: Search for Snow Monkeys

Location: Jigokudani Monkey Park, Zenkoji Temple

Accommodation Name: Metropolitan Nagano Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel deeper into the Japanese Alps to search for the Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) at the Jigokudani Monkey Park - sighting not guaranteed. Continue to Zenkoji, one of Japan's most prolific Buddhist temples.

Day 13: Mount Fuji

Location: Fuji Five Lakes, Mount Fuji, Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, Mishima

Accommodation Name: Kofu Kinenbi Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to the Fuji Five Lakes area. Ascend by road to the 5th station (weather permitting),. Also visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to view the elaborate dyed silk creations of artist Kubota Itchiku. Overnight accommodation will be in Mishima or the wider Fuji area.

Day 14: Explore Hakone

Akihabara Electric Town
Odaiba, Tokyo
Tsukiji Outer Market
Sensoji Temple, Tokyo
Imperial Palace
Meiji Jingu, Tokyo

Location: Lake Ashi, Owakudani Valley, Mount Hakone, Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Sunshine City Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day with a cruise on the peaceful waters of Lake Ashi. Next, soar high on the

Hakone Ropeway over the hilltops to the volcanic Owakudani Valley and discover

the dramatic natural hot springs of Mount Hakone. Later, proceed to Tokyo.

Day 15: Discover Tokyo

Tsukiji Outer Market
Meiji Jingu, Tokyo
Odaiba, Tokyo
Akihabara Electric Town
Sensoji Temple, Tokyo
Imperial Palace

Location: Imperial Palace East Garden, Tokyo, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo, Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Sunshine City Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A dazzling, high-tech metropolis, Japan's capital has wonderfully traditional roots. Start your explorations at the Imperial Palace East Garden, visit Meiji Shrine and stop by the famous Shibuya Crossing.

Day 16: Tokyo

Location: Asakusa, Tokyo, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo, Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo

Accommodation Name: Sunshine City Prince Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stroll the vibrant Asakusa district and soak up the ambiance of Sensoji, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. Ascend to the observation deck of the 634-metre Skytree and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. The afternoon is free until the evening, when you will enjoy a serene dinner cruise.

Day 17: Fly Tokyo to UK

Akihabara Electric Town
Imperial Palace
Sensoji Temple, Tokyo
Meiji Jingu, Tokyo
Tsukiji Outer Market
Odaiba, Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    The tour includes 3* plus to 4* accommodation.

  • Domestic Transportation

    Domestic transportation is included in the tour.

  • Touring with Guides and Entrance Fees

    The tour includes guided tours and entrance fees.

  • Bullet Train Journey

    Enjoy a bullet train journey to Kyoto as part of the tour.

  • Lake Ashi Cruise

    The tour includes a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi.

  • Ferry Ride to Miyajima

    A ferry ride to Miyajima is included in the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping is not customary in Japan, but you may tip your guide at your discretion for excellent service.

  • Drinks with Meals

    Drinks with meals are not included in the tour.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations across Japan, from the British-style interiors of Hotel Monterey Osaka to the contemporary Rihga Gran Kyoto. Enjoy panoramic views at Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima and traditional touches at Mercure Hida Takayama. Each hotel offers unique amenities, including dining options, hot spring baths, and proximity to local attractions. ...more ...less

Experiences

Cross Tokyo's Famous Shibuya CrossingArguably the world's most famous pedestrian crossing, seen in many a film and television show, witness the organised chaos and bright lights of Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing for yourself.

Visit Kubota Itchiku's Art MuseumAdmire the elaborately dyed silk creations of artist Kubota Itchiku at his eponymous art museum. Itchiku singlehandedly revived the traditional and beautiful technique of 'tsujigahana'.

Visit a Wasabi FarmOne of Japan's most famous condiments, wasabi, is an essential element in Japanese cuisine. Learn about its cultivation on a traditional farm and admire the landscapes.

...more ...less

Mode of Transport

Travel through Japan with ease using domestic transportation, including a bullet train journey to Kyoto. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi and a ferry ride to Miyajima. The tour also includes road travel to various destinations, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of Japan's cultural and natural wonders.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is included in the Japan Uncovered tour?

    The tour includes domestic transportation such as a bullet train journey to Kyoto, a cruise on Lake Ashi, and a ferry ride to Miyajima. Road travel to various destinations is also part of the tour.

  • Are meals included in the Japan Uncovered tour?

    Yes, meals are included in the tour. However, drinks with meals are not included.

  • What type of accommodation can I expect on the Japan Uncovered tour?

    The tour includes 3* plus to 4* accommodation, offering a variety of experiences from British-style interiors at Hotel Monterey Osaka to contemporary settings at Rihga Gran Kyoto. Some hotels provide panoramic views, hot spring baths, and are located near local attractions.

  • Will I have the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes cultural experiences such as a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, a visit to a washi paper making workshop, and exploring historic sites like the Nomura Samurai House and the 300-year-old Gassho-style Wada House.

  • Is tipping expected during the Japan Uncovered tour?

    Tipping is not customary in Japan, but you may tip your guide at your discretion for excellent service.

  • What are some of the key highlights of the Japan Uncovered tour?

    Key highlights include visiting the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, exploring the thatched-roof village of Shirakawago, meeting the Snow Monkeys in Yudanaka, ascending Mt Fuji, and experiencing the vibrant Asakusa district in Tokyo.

  • Will I have the chance to see Mount Fuji during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Fuji Five Lakes area and an ascent by road to the 5th station of Mount Fuji, weather permitting.

  • What kind of activities are included in the tour in Tokyo?

    In Tokyo, the tour includes visits to the Imperial Palace East Garden, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Crossing, and the Asakusa district. You will also ascend the Tokyo Skytree and enjoy a dinner cruise.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.

  • Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?

    Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.

  • What is 'Happy to Share'?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.

  • Do you allow children on your tours?

    We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

June  

very enjoyable trip

Excellent organisation, very enjoyable trip, brill

Excellent organisation, very enjoyable trip, brilliant leader. Our leader, Katsumi Yaguchi was a exceptional leader, very knowledgeable, very well organised, and with a good sense of humour, always enthusiastic. We saw lots of interesting aspects of Japan. The hotels were really good but I would have liked one night in a proper Ryokan hotel. ...more ...less

Stacey  

An excellent tour

An excellent tour which incorporated all aspects o

An excellent tour which incorporated all aspects of Japan, a real flavour of a wonderful country! The tour covered the sights and history, as well as the tradition/culture and food. It was relaxed and there was also free time to enjoy shopping and roaming the areas. It was a bonus having a small tour group and I think 20 would be an ideal number as a maximum The transport was excellent - the only issue is that it would be more convenient if ones luggage from the bullet train was at the hotel upon arrival or shortly afterwards The food experiences were varied, tasty and well balanced Hotel accommodation was very good The tour guide, Yuki Kobayashi, was exceptional! She enhanced the experience with her beautiful English, vast knowledge of her country and organisational skills. She should be highly commended and we will be writing to her Agency to extend out gratitude and appreciation of her services The only issue which I think should be changed and taken on board is that this tour should be a level 2, not 1, with some parts a level 3 when climbing stairs in some of the castles. We were a fit group who enjoyed walking a lot, so did not need the bus parked near the sight nor did we find the stairs too much of an issue. Thanks you for a fantastic tour. It was truly memorable! ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Wednesday

Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
$9081 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

Jun 09, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$8301 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

Jun 16, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025
$7782 (USD)

Monday - Wednesday

Jun 23, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025
$8301 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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.

Japan Uncovered

17 Days Starting in Osaka, Japan and ending in Tokyo, Japan

Visiting: Osaka, Nara, Todaiji Temple, Isuien Garden, Osaka Castle, Himeji Castle, Koko-en, Hiroshima, Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima, Kyoto, Ryoanji Temple, Kinkakuji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Kenrokuen, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takayama, Miyagawa Morning Market, Takayama, Takayama Jinya, Takayama, Festival Floats Museum, Takayama, Kusakabe Folk Crafts Museum, Takayama, Kamisannomachi Street, Takayama, Matsumoto, Nagano, Jigokudani Monkey Park, Zenkoji Temple, Fuji Five Lakes, Mount Fuji, Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, Mishima, Lake Ashi, Owakudani Valley, Mount Hakone, Tokyo, Imperial Palace East Garden, Tokyo, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo, Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo, Asakusa, Tokyo, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo, Tokyo Skytree Tokyo ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Wendy Wu

Tour code:

1510

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 28

Physical rating:

Level1

Age range:

12-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Meat

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Boat/Cruise Excursion

From: $7782 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 17-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

Why book with Barrhead?

protected icon

Fully Protected

All our holidays are fully financially protected.


Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

search icon

Range

Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.


We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.


Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.

award icon

Expert Knowledge

We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.


Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.

atal icon

Trusted Agent

Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.


Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.


We look after you every step of the way.


Similar Tours