Japan Uncovered
Japan Uncovered
Miyajima, Japan
Takayama, Japan
$7779
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
Itinerary
Days 1-2: Fly to Osaka
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.
What's Included
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Accommodation
The tour includes 3* plus to 4* accommodation.
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Domestic Transportation
Domestic transportation is included in the tour.
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Touring with Guides and Entrance Fees
The tour includes guided tours and entrance fees.
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Bullet Train Journey
Enjoy a bullet train journey to Kyoto as part of the tour.
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Lake Ashi Cruise
The tour includes a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi.
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Ferry Ride to Miyajima
A ferry ride to Miyajima is included in the tour.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping is not customary in Japan, but you may tip your guide at your discretion for excellent service.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Are meals included in the Japan Uncovered tour?
Yes, meals are included in the tour. However, drinks with meals are not included.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025Monday - Wednesday
Jun 09, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025Monday - Wednesday
Jun 16, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025Monday - Wednesday
Jun 23, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025Book with Confidence
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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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Terms and Conditions
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:
Tour code:
1510
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 28
Age range:
12-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
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