The BEST Of Japan!
DATES:
TRIP 1: April 2nd – April 10th – FULLY BOOKED
TRIP 2: May 15th – 23rd – 2 spots left!
DESTINATION: Japan
PRICE: €2,950
After 4 successful group trips to Japan, we’re taking you back again on the most epic 9-day adventure through one of the most fascinating countries in the world.
Picture this: wandering through ancient temples in Kyoto, getting completely lost in Tokyo’s neon-lit streets, feeding adorable deer in Nara, and soaking in traditional hot springs while staring at Mount Fuji. Plus, the food tour in Osaka is going to blow your mind.
This isn’t just any old trip. It’s about proper cultural immersion.
You’ll sleep in a traditional ryokan, ride the famous bullet train, and create those pinch-me moments with the most amazing group of women. Japan can feel overwhelming to tackle solo, but with our group? You get to experience all the magic without any of the stress.
This trip will begin in Tokyo and end in Osaka.
What’s Included
● Local tour guides
● All entry tickets
● Domestic transport (private buses, metro pass and bullet train)
● All accomodation
● Meals as stated
● Janet’s Journeys Leader
Excludes
● Airport transfers (but you’ll be given detailed guidance on taking the train or Limosine bus to the city)
● International Flights
● Travel insurance
Accommodation
Throughout our stay in Japan, we will stay in a mixture of modern hotels and traditional ryokans, sleeping on futons. The perfect blend of comfort and authentic Japanese culture!
All rooms on all trips are shared, 2 people in each room. On one night, some rooms will accommodate 3 people in the ryokans. We will partner you with an adventure buddy – an amazing way to make new friends! You’ll be moved around to pair up with a new friend every couple of nights.
All rooms will be twin or triple sharing, private rooms.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Tokyo
Welcome to the vibrant, energetic city of Tokyo!
You will make your way from the airport to the hotel and get settled in.
After arriving and enjoying a group dinner, we’ll dive into the lively atmosphere of the Shinjuku area. Take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets, where neon lights light up the cityscape. We’ll discover the charm of Golden Gai, a neighbourhood filled with cosy bars and hidden gems for a taste of Tokyo’s nightlife.
Meals: Group welcome dinner
Day 2: Tokyo
Time to dive into the incredible energy of Tokyo with our local guide.
We’re kicking off with the iconic Tokyo Tower for some seriously impressive city views, then wandering through the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market, where the atmosphere is truly amazing and we can feast on street food!
Next, we’ll explore the historic charm of Asakusa and the beautiful Senso-ji Temple before finishing with Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, known for its bold fashion, trendy boutiques, and quirky street snacks.
Still have some energy? We’ll do a group dinner and maybe some karaoke!
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 3: Tokyo
Today is all about Tokyo’s energy and edge.
We’ll kick things off with a visit to Meji Jingu Shrine, just walking distance from our hotel followed by visit to Shibuya Sky, a sleek rooftop observatory offering jaw-dropping panoramic views over the city’s skyline. Just below, we’ll join the crowds at Shibuya Crossing. One of the busiest (and most iconic) intersections in the world. Just like the movies.
We’ll then take the train to the fully immersive TeamLab Planets for an afternoon you won’t forget – cameras at the ready!
Tonight, take it all in for one last time because tomorrow we leave for the beauty of Mount Fuji.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Day 4: Hakone
Time to escape the city buzz for some serious mountain magic!
We’ll get on the bus and head to the stunning resort town of Hakone where things get properly scenic. You’ll experience the famous Owakudani volcanic valley (yes, it’s as cool as it sounds), take the incredible ropeway with views that’ll have you reaching for your camera non-stop, and cruise across the beautiful Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji as your backdrop.
Tonight’s the real treat though… you’re sleeping in a traditional Japanese Ryokan with futons on tatami mats and the whole authentic experience!
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner in our traditional ryokan
(dinner at the Ryokan will be an experience you’ll never forget!)
Day 5 - Mt. Fuji and Train to Kyoto
Wake up in your cozy ryokan then get ready for some of the most incredible Mount Fuji views you’ll ever see!
We’re heading to the Fuji area to visit Arakurayama Sengen Park and Oishi Park for those postcard-perfect shots of Japan’s most famous mountain.
Then comes the moment everyone’s been waiting for… jumping on the legendary bullet train to Kyoto! Honestly, the train ride alone is such an experience and the perfect way to travel between these two amazing cities.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Day 6 - Kyoto
Today is your chance to step into the elegance of traditional Japan.
We’ll start the morning with a Japanese tea ceremony, where you’ll don a beautiful kimono and learn the graceful rituals behind this centuries-old practice. Then we’re off to explore Kyoto’s old town, wandering through charming streets lined with wooden townhouses, temples, and hidden teahouses.
We’ll end the day in the atmospheric Gion District, known for its lantern-lit lanes and glimpses of Geisha culture. It’s a day steeped in history, beauty, and the quiet magic that makes Kyoto so unforgettable.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 7: Nara
Today we’ll take a bus to Nara to meet the famous wild deer of Nara face to face! Are you ready for the most adorable day ever?
We’ll start at the beautiful Kasuga-Taisha Shrine, then head to see the absolutely massive Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple (seriously, photos don’t do it justice).
The deer here are incredible. They’ll bow to you for crackers, which is honestly the cutest thing you’ll ever see. We’ll finish the day at Kyoto’s stunning Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). Prepare your camera (and your fits!) because this is the most photogenic temple in all of Japan.
Meals: Breakfast and set lunch
Day 8: Osaka
Time to head to Japan’s incredible food capital…but before that we have an EARLY morning to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine at sunrise. This is optional but highly recommended and you’llbe back in the hotel by 9am in time for breakfast!
We’ll head to Osaka, a 1 hour drive away, around 11am. Here, we’ll check out the impressive Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city’s feudal past set within beautiful park grounds. before diving into the most epic food tour of your life in Shinsekai!
Osaka seriously doesn’t mess around when it comes to eating, so get ready to try some absolutely amazing local dishes and street food that’ll blow your mind.
Meals: Breakfast and food tour dinner
Day 9: Fly Home
Sadly our amazing trip to Japan has come to an end and we’ll help everyone get to the airport in Osaka.
You can either fly home from Osaka airport or take a train or domestic flight back to Tokyo and fly out from there. Remember airport transfers are not included for departure day.
Itinerary Note:
This itinerary, as always, is open to small changes depending on the weather etc. Fear not, if we have to make any adjustments, it will be to swap something out with an equally, if not better, experience!
Please note: this trip begins in Tokyo and ends in Osaka so you will need to book your flights accordingly or book transportation from Osaka back to Tokyo. You will be welcome to spend the day at the hotel using its amenities before having to leave for the airport.
FAQS
I’m ready, how do I book?
Please click the BOOK NOW button which will take you to a payment portal to pay a €750 deposit. The remaining balance of the trip will be split into two equal payments due 2 & 3 months prior to departure. We are also always happy to create a custom payment plan that works best for you so don’t hesitate to reach out if. The trip is booked on a first come first served basis.
How many people are on the trip?
This trip requires a minimum number of guests to proceed, and this minimum must be met at least 3 months before departure to be guaranteed. If the minimum number of guests is not met by then, a full refund will be issued.
Expect to travel with 6-11 new friends!
Why are deposits non-refundable?
The deposit for your trip is non-refundable due to several important factors. Firstly, when you book a spot, we immediately begin the process of planning and preparing for your journey. This involves engaging staff who work diligently behind the scenes to ensure every aspect of your trip is meticulously organised. These preparations often involve upfront costs that are incurred from the moment your booking is confirmed. Additionally, by requiring a non-refundable deposit, we aim to ensure that all participants are committed to the trip.
We understand that plans can change, which is why we insist all travellers have trip insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that might affect their ability to participate.
What about my other payments? Are they refundable?
All payments, except your deposit, are fully refundable three months prior to the departure date. After the three-month mark, any payments made are non-refundable. This is because we are usually unable to find a replacement at such short notice, and have contracts in place with our vendors that need to be fulfilled. Again, we strongly recommend all travellers have travel insurance so that they can refund you should your plans change. We are a small business at the end of the day, and we want nothing more than to continue showing our guests the world. We hope you understand the need for strict adherence to this policy.
How much money will I need for non-included meals, alcohol, and souvenirs?
For non-included meals, expect to spend about €10-€15 for casual dining and up to €35 for finer meals. Alcoholic drinks typically cost €3.50-€5.50 for a beer and €5-€10 for wine or cocktails. For souvenirs, budgeting is based on personal spending habits.
How does tipping work?
To make things smooth and stress free, we will be collecting a kitty of €50 per person at the beginning of the trip. This ensures all of our incredible on the ground vendors are taken care of including guides, drivers, meals, and activities that are listed in your itinerary.
For any extra meals or personal expenses that are not included in the itinerary, you should expect to tip separately. We will guide you on what is appropriate throughout the trip so you feel confident and comfortable.
How physically demanding is the trip?
The trip is designed to be accessible to most people in good health. Activities include moderate walks, visits to historical sites, and some optional light hikes. It’s not overly strenuous, but a basic level of fitness will help you get the most out of the experiences.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
While Japanese cuisine often features seafood and nuts, we can accommodate most dietary restrictions. Please inform us of your specific needs in advance.
What if I want my own room?
We believe that rooming is one of the best parts of the experience. It feels a little like adult summer camp and has always been a highlight for our guests, with nothing but positive feedback in the past.
That being said, if you feel that sharing does not suit your travel style, we are happy to discuss the option of a single room supplement. Simply reach out to us at janetsgrouptrips@gmail.com and we will do our best to accommodate you.
What are the health and vaccination requirements?
There are no required vaccinations to enter Japan. However, it’s always wise to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations. Please feel free to do your own research on any additional vaccinations you might consider for the trip.
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