Shogun Trail

5.0/5 Based on 4 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor

Shogun Trail

5.0/5 Based on 4 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Fully Guided Adventure Small Group
Our Price From 8,791 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 184 Per Person
 Trip Length
12 Days
 Trip Starts
Tokyo
 Trip Finishes
Fukuoka
12 Day Shogun Trail Itinerary (Explore)
Countries Explored: Japan
Our Price From 8,791 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 184 Per Person
 Trip Length
12 Days
 Trip Starts
Tokyo
 Trip Finishes
Fukuoka
12 Day Shogun Trail Itinerary (Explore)
Countries Explored: Japan
Trip Style
Discovery
Departures
Accommodation
Comfortable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Moderate
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
JS
Trip Style
Discovery
Departures
Accommodation
Comfortable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Moderate
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
JS

Overview

Read 4 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Explore's 12 Day Shogun Trail. Explore Tokyo's neon-lit streets, discover Kyoto's tranquil temples and visit the site of the world's first atomic attack in Hiroshima. Travel away from the tourist trail to uncover the country's rural charm with a stay in a traditional ryokan on the beautiful island of Hirado.
Read 4 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Explore's 12 Day Shogun Trail. Explore Tokyo's neon-lit streets, discover Kyoto's tranquil temples and visit the site of the world's first atomic attack in Hiroshima. Travel away from the tourist trail to uncover the country's rural charm with a stay in a traditional ryokan on the beautiful island of Hirado.

Itinerary

Arrive in Tokyo, the ultra-modern capital of Japan.

For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6.30pm for the welcome meeting. If some of the group are arriving on later flights then the main introductory briefing will be conducted on the morning of day 2 with everybody present. After this we have dinner included at a nearby local restaurant where you will have the chance to sample various types of 'izakaya' style Japanese cuisine. There are no other activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Tokyo at any time. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita Airport (NRT). The city centre is around an hour away from Haneda Airport and an hour and a half from Narita. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your Leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. Stay: Sunroute Asakusa Hotel (Comfortable) (D)

Over one-quarter of the Japanese population live within a 50 km radius of the centre of Tokyo, making it the most populous metropolitan area in the world. The result is a bustling and exciting city - the economic powerhouse of Asia. However, scratching its neon-clad surface reveals a city bursting with history and tradition.

We start our sightseeing with a morning stroll to Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, in Asakusa, a great introduction to Tokyo's unique culture. We then board a boat for a short journey along the Sumida River. Gaining a totally different perspective of the city, we drift past high rise apartments, secluded gardens and busy warehouses. After arriving in the heart of the city we visit Hamarikyu Gardens.

At a convenient time in the day we will get our Japan Rail Passes validated in a nearby station. Please note that for late bookings, and people who have not provided their passport copy in time as requested, it will not be possible to issue a Japan Rail Pass and you will be provided with individual train tickets for the included journeys instead.

After some free time for lunch we visit Meiji shrine. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to seek out other areas of this fascinating city such as the trendy back streets of Harajuku, the busiest crossing in the world at Shibuya, or the skyscraper district of Shinjuku with its incredible robot restaurant and the latest electronic gadgets. Stay: Sunroute Asakusa Hotel (Comfortable) (B)

Today, we spend the day exploring Hakone National Park - home to the towering Mount Fuji - after a 2.5hour drive in our private bus from Tokyo. Although distances are short, we use a variety of forms of transport including bus, boat and cable car as we make our way initially to the hot, bubbling sulphur springs at Owakudani - a volcanic crater formed during the last eruption of Mount Hakone. From here, on a clear day, there are magnificent views of the snow-capped mountain that is so synonymous with Japan. Whilst at the springs, you may wish to join the locals in eating an egg boiled in the sulphur pools - just one is reputed to increase life expectancy by seven years! Our next stop is Lake Ashi, a magnificent lake created from the eruption of the Hakone Volcano over 3000 years ago. A short boat ride takes us to Moto Hakone where you may choose to relax in one of the lakeside restaurants.

In Hakone, we are accommodated in a traditional inn, known as a ryokan, where we sleep on comfortable, folding futon mattresses. During our stay, we learn about local etiquette, such as when to take off our shoes and the pleasures of taking a Japanese bath, all of which helps enhance our stay in this traditional establishment.

We include the luggage forwarding service today to ship our main bags to Kyoto to travel light with an overnight bag. Please refer to the Trip Information; Budgeting and packing; Luggage on tour section for more information. Stay: Fuji Hakone Guest House (Simple) (B)

Leaving the mountains behind us, we catch a local bus to Odawara where we board the world-famous 'Bullet Train', or Shinkansen, to Kyoto - the cradle of all things uniquely Japanese, arriving around midday. This imperial capital was at the heart of events that shaped Japan's destiny for more than 1000 years. As the only major Japanese city to remain unscathed by World War II bombings, signs of the past are in its grand temples and palaces, and also in the many quaint shops selling traditional wares. This afternoon, we head to the famous geisha district of Gion. Here, we hope to catch a glimpse of these enigmatic entertainers as they scuttle to work in the teahouses or high-class restaurants, and we'll meet with an apprentice (maiko) for a private tea and get the chance to interact, ask questions and take photos. Stay: Via Inn Prime Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi (Comfortable) (B)

Kyoto is regarded as Japan's loveliest city, with more than 2000 temples and shrines, many set in manicured landscaped gardens. We start with the Ryoan-ji Temple with its beautiful Zen gardens and famous rock garden. The exact history of the gardens is uncertain but the temple was converted from an aristocrat's villa in 1450. Whilst in the gardens try testing out the theory that at least one of the rocks is hidden from every vantage point. We then explore the famous Golden Pavilion. The temple is a three storey building with the top two tiers covered in gold leaf. Set in a lake the building appears to float on the water and the reflections, coupled with the background of forest make it worthy of its place on many Japanese postcards. We will also visit Nijo Castle. Built in 1603 as a Shogun palace, it is a great example of the sumptuous setting in which the Shogun would have held audiences with his samurai warriors. The grounds and gates are impressive but the real highlights are the nightingale floors and the extensive gardens. There is also time to stroll along Kyoto's charming streets and tree-lined canals, simply soaking up its unique atmosphere and your Explore Leader will take you to some of their own favourite sites while exploring Japan's former capital. Stay: Via Inn Prime Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi (Comfortable) (B)

Today is left free for your own personal exploration of wonderful Kyoto. For an option outside of the city, it is possible to take an trip to nearby Nara, a journey of 45 minutes each way by train. Nara is one of Japan's greenest cities and is home to the Todai-ji Temple, until very recently the world's largest wooden building, it is also home to a giant bronze Buddha statue. All of Nara's highlights can be explored by foot so it makes for an easy day's exploration. Stay: Via Inn Prime Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi (Comfortable) (B)

An early morning Shinkansen train takes us to Hiroshima, where we will spend the morning exploring this thought-provoking city in our own time. Completely destroyed on 6th August 1945, when it was the target of the first atomic bomb to be used in wartime, Hiroshima has literally risen from the ashes, and is now a thriving, friendly and welcoming city.

We plan a visit to The Peace Memorial Park and the well-presented museum on the site of the 1945 A-bomb hypocentre. Whilst serving as poignant reminders of the nuclear holocaust, their over-whelming message is of hope that such horrors will never reoccur. Travel around the city is easy, thanks to the provision of colourful street trams, brought in from all over Japan after the war.

This afternoon, we regroup continue our journey to Nagasaki by both Shinkansen and the excellent local train service, where we will spend the next two nights. This is a city with an eventful history and was, of course, the target of the second atomic bomb attack on Japan. In a cruel twist of fate, the city bore the unimaginable brunt of a last-minute change of plan, when the preferred target of Kokura was obscured by cloud.

We include the luggage forwarding service today to ship our main bags to Nagasaki to travel light. Note that the bags will arrive tomorrow so you will need to travel with an overnight bag. Please refer to the Trip Information; Budgeting and packing; Luggage on tour section for more information. Stay: S-Peria Hotel Nagasaki (Comfortable) (B)

This morning the tour leader will lead an orientation tour of Nagasaki, which, for long periods in its history has served as Japan's main contact with the outside world. In the 16th century, the city became established as the main trade point with the Portuguese. As well as providing wealth from trade, the Portuguese introduced Christianity. After almost a century of turmoil, the religion was banned, foreign traders were expelled, and Japan closed its doors to the West.

The one exception was the artificial island in Nagasaki harbour, Dejima. This small, closely guarded enclave was the site of the Dutch Trading Mission, which remained Japan's only contact with the outside world for almost 200 years. During our visit here, we can see that some of the original features remain, as well as some excellent reconstructions of the 18th century buildings. Continuing our tour in the Glover Gardens, we will see fine foreign residences of the Meiji period and enjoy impressive views over Nagasaki Harbour, perhaps the most scenic harbour view in Japan.

The afternoon has been left free to explore this historic city in your own time. You may choose to visit Gunkanjima 'battleship island' Museum, Nagasaki Peace Park and Museum, Central Nagasaki and the Spectacles Bridge area, China Town or Mount Inasa - one of the 'three greatest night time views in Japan'. Stay: S-Peria Hotel Nagasaki (Comfortable) (B)

This morning we travel by private coach along a scenic road through the Higashi-Sonogi tea growing region. We'll stop at a terraced tea plantation and walk through the fields to the tea farmer's house. There'll be an opportunity to sample some of the brew including green 'Sencha' and roasted 'Hojicha' teas before enjoying a traditional style lunch with the local tea farmers. After lunch we continue our journey north to Hirado Island, on arrival before checking in to our accommodation we will visit Kameoka shrine and park as well as Hirado Castle. Hirado city prospered as a castle town for almost 500 years. Its excellent port enabled it to become the central stage for trade with China, Holland and Portugal from the 17th century. The next two nights are spent in a simple Ryokan or japanese style accommodation with futon-style beds and the chance to take another hot spring bath. Dinner will be a traditional Kaiseki Ryori - Japanese multi-course meal.

We include the luggage forwarding service once again today to ship our main bags to Fukuoka in order to travel light, packing our rucksacks for the two-night stay on the island of Hirado. Please refer to the Trip Information; Budgeting and packing; Luggage on tour section for more information. Stay: Saiyou Wakigawa Hotel (Simple) (B/L/D)

Today, we will explore the pristine and unspoiled islands of Hirado and Ikitsuki, connected by an impressive 400 metre-long bridge which happens to be the longest truss bridge in the world. Accompanied by a local expert on a full day tour in our charter mini-bus, we will discover rural Japan and take in the remote countryside of the Hidden Christians. Lunch today is a locally sourced Japanese bento box. Along the island shores, fishing remains one of the main occupations, but we also have the opportunity to learn about traditional industries along the way. We will discover the wonderful Matsura museum, housed in the former residence of the Matsura family who ruled the area from the 13th Century. On our journey, we will gain views of the spectacular coastlines and towering cliffs on these beautiful islands. Stay: Saiyou Wakigawa Hotel (Simple) (B/L/D)

This morning we will travel in our mini-bus to Sasebo where we enjoy spectacular views on a relaxing cruise through the fabled 'Ninety Nine Islands'. In actual fact, 170 islands, mostly uninhabited, lie alongside the indented saw-toothed coastline. Later we travel by local train (2hrs) to Fukuoka where we spend the night, the last stop on our Shogun Trail. The rest of the afternoon is left free for sightseeing and gift or souvenir shopping. Stay: Route Inn Hakata Eki-mae (Comfortable) (B)

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Fukuoka.

There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Fukuoka at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel, while you head for some last minute shopping or sightseeing. If you would like an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Fukuoka Airport (FUK) which is around 20 minutes away. (B)

Arrive in Tokyo, the ultra-modern capital of Japan.

For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6.30pm for the welcome meeting. If some of the group are arriving on later flights then the main introductory briefing will be conducted on the morning of day 2 with everybody present. After this we have dinner included at a nearby local restaurant where you will have the chance to sample various types of 'izakaya' style Japanese cuisine. There are no other activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Tokyo at any time. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita Airport (NRT). The city centre is around an hour away from Haneda Airport and an hour and a half from Narita. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your Leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. Stay: Sunroute Asakusa Hotel (Comfortable) (D)

Over one-quarter of the Japanese population live within a 50 km radius of the centre of Tokyo, making it the most populous metropolitan area in the world. The result is a bustling and exciting city - the economic powerhouse of Asia. However, scratching its neon-clad surface reveals a city bursting with history and tradition. We start our sightseeing with a morning stroll to Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, in Asakusa, a great introduction to Tokyo's unique culture. We then board a boat for a short journey along the Sumida River. Gaining a totally different perspective of the city, we drift past high rise apartments, secluded gardens and busy warehouses. After arriving in the heart of the city we visit Hamarikyu Gardens.

After some free time for lunch we visit Meiji shrine. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to seek out other areas of this fascinating city such as the trendy back streets of Harajuku, the busiest crossing in the world at Shibuya, or the skyscraper district of Shinjuku with its incredible robot restaurant and the latest electronic gadgets. Stay: Sunroute Asakusa Hotel (Comfortable) (B)

Today, we spend the day exploring Hakone National Park - home to the towering Mount Fuji - after a 2.5hour drive in our private bus from Tokyo. Although distances are short, we use a variety of forms of transport including bus, boat and cable car as we make our way initially to the hot, bubbling sulphur springs at Owakudani - a volcanic crater formed during the last eruption of Mount Hakone. From here, on a clear day, there are magnificent views of the snow-capped mountain that is so synonymous with Japan. Whilst at the springs, you may wish to join the locals in eating an egg boiled in the sulphur pools - just one is reputed to increase life expectancy by seven years! Our next stop is Lake Ashi, a magnificent lake created from the eruption of the Hakone Volcano over 3000 years ago. A short boat ride takes us to Moto Hakone where you may choose to relax in one of the lakeside restaurants.

In Hakone, we are accommodated in a traditional inn, known as a ryokan, where we sleep on comfortable, folding futon mattresses. During our stay, we learn about local etiquette, such as when to take off our shoes and the pleasures of taking a Japanese bath, all of which helps enhance our stay in this traditional establishment.

We include the luggage forwarding service today to ship our main bags to Kyoto to travel light with an overnight bag. Please refer to the Trip Information; Budgeting and packing; Luggage on tour section for more information. Stay: Fuji Hakone Guest House (Simple) (B)

Leaving the mountains behind us, we catch a local bus to Odawara where we board the world-famous 'Bullet Train', or Shinkansen, to Kyoto - the cradle of all things uniquely Japanese, arriving around midday. This imperial capital was at the heart of events that shaped Japan's destiny for more than 1000 years. As the only major Japanese city to remain unscathed by World War II bombings, signs of the past are in its grand temples and palaces, and also in the many quaint shops selling traditional wares. This afternoon, we head to the famous geisha district of Gion. Here, we hope to catch a glimpse of these enigmatic entertainers as they scuttle to work in the teahouses or high-class restaurants, and we'll meet with an apprentice (maiko) for a private tea and get the chance to interact, ask questions and take photos. Stay: Via Inn Prime Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi (Comfortable) (B)

Kyoto is regarded as Japan's loveliest city, with more than 2000 temples and shrines, many set in manicured landscaped gardens. We start with the Ryoan-ji Temple with its beautiful Zen gardens and famous rock garden. The exact history of the gardens is uncertain but the temple was converted from an aristocrat's villa in 1450. Whilst in the gardens try testing out the theory that at least one of the rocks is hidden from every vantage point. We then explore the famous Golden Pavilion. The temple is a three storey building with the top two tiers covered in gold leaf. Set in a lake the building appears to float on the water and the reflections, coupled with the background of forest make it worthy of its place on many Japanese postcards. We will also visit Nijo Castle. Built in 1603 as a Shogun palace, it is a great example of the sumptuous setting in which the Shogun would have held audiences with his samurai warriors. The grounds and gates are impressive but the real highlights are the nightingale floors and the extensive gardens. There is also time to stroll along Kyoto's charming streets and tree-lined canals, simply soaking up its unique atmosphere and your Explore Leader will take you to some of their own favourite sites while exploring Japan's former capital. Stay: Via Inn Prime Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi (Comfortable) (B)

Today is left free for your own personal exploration of wonderful Kyoto. For an option outside of the city, it is possible to take an trip to nearby Nara, a journey of 45 minutes each way by train. Nara is one of Japan's greenest cities and is home to the Todai-ji Temple, until very recently the world's largest wooden building, it is also home to a giant bronze Buddha statue. All of Nara's highlights can be explored by foot so it makes for an easy day's exploration. Stay: Via Inn Prime Kyotoeki Hachijoguchi (Comfortable) (B)

An early morning Shinkansen train takes us to Hiroshima, where we will spend the morning exploring this thought-provoking city in our own time. Completely destroyed on 6th August 1945, when it was the target of the first atomic bomb to be used in wartime, Hiroshima has literally risen from the ashes, and is now a thriving, friendly and welcoming city.

We plan a visit to The Peace Memorial Park and the well-presented museum on the site of the 1945 A-bomb hypocentre. Whilst serving as poignant reminders of the nuclear holocaust, their over-whelming message is of hope that such horrors will never reoccur. Travel around the city is easy, thanks to the provision of colourful street trams, brought in from all over Japan after the war.

This afternoon, we regroup continue our journey to Nagasaki by both Shinkansen and the excellent local train service, where we will spend the next two nights. This is a city with an eventful history and was, of course, the target of the second atomic bomb attack on Japan. In a cruel twist of fate, the city bore the unimaginable brunt of a last-minute change of plan, when the preferred target of Kokura was obscured by cloud.

We include the luggage forwarding service today to ship our main bags to Nagasaki to travel light. Note that the bags will arrive tomorrow so you will need to travel with an overnight bag. Please refer to the Trip Information; Budgeting and packing; Luggage on tour section for more information. Stay: S-Peria Hotel Nagasaki (Comfortable) (B)

This morning the tour leader will lead an orientation tour of Nagasaki, which, for long periods in its history has served as Japan's main contact with the outside world. In the 16th century, the city became established as the main trade point with the Portuguese. As well as providing wealth from trade, the Portuguese introduced Christianity. After almost a century of turmoil, the religion was banned, foreign traders were expelled, and Japan closed its doors to the West.

The one exception was the artificial island in Nagasaki harbour, Dejima. This small, closely guarded enclave was the site of the Dutch Trading Mission, which remained Japan's only contact with the outside world for almost 200 years. During our visit here, we can see that some of the original features remain, as well as some excellent reconstructions of the 18th century buildings. Continuing our tour in the Glover Gardens, we will see fine foreign residences of the Meiji period and enjoy impressive views over Nagasaki Harbour, perhaps the most scenic harbour view in Japan.

The afternoon has been left free to explore this historic city in your own time. You may choose to visit Gunkanjima 'battleship island' Museum, Nagasaki Peace Park and Museum, Central Nagasaki and the Spectacles Bridge area, China Town or Mount Inasa - one of the 'three greatest night time views in Japan'. Stay: S-Peria Hotel Nagasaki (Comfortable) (B)

This morning we travel by private coach along a scenic road through the Higashi-Sonogi tea growing region. We'll stop at a terraced tea plantation and walk through the fields to the tea farmer's house. There'll be an opportunity to sample some of the brew including green 'Sencha' and roasted 'Hojicha' teas before enjoying a traditional style lunch with the local tea farmers. After lunch we continue our journey north to Hirado Island, on arrival before checking in to our accommodation we will visit Kameoka shrine and park as well as Hirado Castle. Hirado city prospered as a castle town for almost 500 years. Its excellent port enabled it to become the central stage for trade with China, Holland and Portugal from the 17th century. The next two nights are spent in a simple Ryokan or japanese style accommodation with futon-style beds and the chance to take another hot spring bath. Dinner will be a traditional Kaiseki Ryori - Japanese multi-course meal.

We include the luggage forwarding service once again today to ship our main bags to Fukuoka in order to travel light, packing our rucksacks for the two-night stay on the island of Hirado. Please refer to the Trip Information; Budgeting and packing; Luggage on tour section for more information. Stay: Saiyou Wakigawa Hotel (Simple) (B/L/D)

Today, we will explore the pristine and unspoiled islands of Hirado and Ikitsuki, connected by an impressive 400 metre-long bridge which happens to be the longest truss bridge in the world. Accompanied by a local expert on a full day tour in our charter mini-bus, we will discover rural Japan and take in the remote countryside of the Hidden Christians. Lunch today is a locally sourced Japanese bento box. Along the island shores, fishing remains one of the main occupations, but we also have the opportunity to learn about traditional industries along the way. We will discover the wonderful Matsura museum, housed in the former residence of the Matsura family who ruled the area from the 13th Century. On our journey, we will gain views of the spectacular coastlines and towering cliffs on these beautiful islands. Stay: Saiyou Wakigawa Hotel (Simple) (B/L/D)

This morning we will travel in our mini-bus to Sasebo where we enjoy spectacular views on a relaxing cruise through the fabled 'Ninety Nine Islands'. In actual fact, 170 islands, mostly uninhabited, lie alongside the indented saw-toothed coastline. Later we travel by local train (2hrs) to Fukuoka where we spend the night, the last stop on our Shogun Trail. The rest of the afternoon is left free for sightseeing and gift or souvenir shopping. Stay: Route Inn Hakata Eki-mae (Comfortable) (B)

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Fukuoka.

There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Fukuoka at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel, while you head for some last minute shopping or sightseeing. If you would like an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Fukuoka Airport (FUK) which is around 20 minutes away. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • A trip combining Japan's classic sites with lesser visited, equally rewarding highlights
  • Visit Hakone National Park for a spectacular view of Mount Fuji
  • Uncover the rural charm of beautiful Hirado Island and stay in a traditional ryokan

  • Moderate pace tours are ideal if you want a holiday which combines exciting activities and experiences with plenty of time to relax and unwind. Typically you'll be active and busy for part of the day but then also have time to rest and recharge your batteries.

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

  • A trip combining Japan's classic sites with lesser visited, equally rewarding highlights
  • Visit Hakone National Park for a spectacular view of Mount Fuji
  • Uncover the rural charm of beautiful Hirado Island and stay in a traditional ryokan

  • Moderate pace tours are ideal if you want a holiday which combines exciting activities and experiences with plenty of time to relax and unwind. Typically you'll be active and busy for part of the day but then also have time to rest and recharge your batteries.

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
About Explore!
About Explore!

Launching in 1981, Explore offer trips from over 130 countries - from classic small group tours. Read more

Explore Leaders
Explore Leaders

Explore's leaders are more than just your typical guide. They're your local expert are are passionate about sharing their expertise with you. Read more

Where do we Stay?
Where do we Stay?

The places Explore stay are every bit as important as the sights they visit and the things you do. Read more

About Explore!
About Explore!

Launching in 1981, Explore offer trips from over 130 countries - from classic small group tours. Read more

Explore Leaders
Explore Leaders

Explore's leaders are more than just your typical guide. They're your local expert are are passionate about sharing their expertise with you. Read more

Where do we Stay?
Where do we Stay?

The places Explore stay are every bit as important as the sights they visit and the things you do. Read more

Trip Reviews (4) Most Recent 'Shogun Trail' Reviews

5.0
AVG. RATING 5.0 / 5
4 Reviews
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Great rail journey through Japan. 1 , Australia, Apr 2019
Japan was not as expensive as I thought it would be. Great rail service and I'd recommend this to trip to others considering travelling to Japan for a couple of weeks. Highly recommend Explore!
Massive thanks to Evan. 0 , Australia, Feb 2019
Massive thanks to Evan, Van, for his excellent leadership and thanks for the wonderful insight into rural Japan, provided by the trip to Hirado
Will definitely recommend to others. 0 , Australia, Feb 2019
I really enjoyed my trip as I have always enjoyed my Explore trips. The group were great company and Van looked after us really well. Will definitely recommend to others.
Here's a good tip? 0 , Australia, Feb 2019
First experience with Explore! - v impressed! Here's a good tip - the overnight bag which is mentioned in the trip notes really has to be quite small because we walk with them a fair distance and put them in lockers whilst we go out exploring. My overnight bag was too big. Eating out was much more affordable than expected and really good. Overall a ...read more fantastic trip with Explore.
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Take a small group tour with us and you'll be joined by like-minded travel companions as well as a skilled Tour Leader with in-depth knowledge of your destination. Choose from over 350 expertly-designed itineraries in more than 100 countries worldwide. You’ll visit the must-see highlights as well as places not on the typical tourist trail, and leave...more feeling that you've really explored.

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Take a small group tour with us and you'll be joined by like-minded travel companions as well as a skilled Tour Leader with in-depth knowledge of your destination. Choose from over 350 expertly-designed itineraries in more than 100 countries worldwide. You’ll visit the must-see highlights as well as places not on the typical tourist trail, and leave...more feeling that you've really explored.

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Thursday 09 Oct 2025
Status
From: $9,180 $8,996
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 12 Oct 2025
Thursday 23 Oct 2025
Status
From: $9,180 $8,996
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 26 Oct 2025
Thursday 06 Nov 2025
Status
From: $9,180 $8,996
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 09 Nov 2025
Thursday 20 Nov 2025
Status
From: $9,180 $8,996
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 23 Mar 2025
Thursday 03 Apr 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 30 Mar 2025
Thursday 10 Apr 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 06 Apr 2025
Thursday 17 Apr 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 13 Apr 2025
Thursday 24 Apr 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 14 Sep 2025
Thursday 25 Sep 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 28 Sep 2025
Thursday 09 Oct 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 12 Oct 2025
Thursday 23 Oct 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 26 Oct 2025
Thursday 06 Nov 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Sunday 09 Nov 2025
Thursday 20 Nov 2025
Status
From: $10,360 $10,176
Save $184 Enquire
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Explore. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Explore. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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