Overview
Experience Japan’s living history, from the neon pulse of Tokyo to the quiet temples of Kyoto. Immerse yourself in samurai traditions, Zen meditation, and the warmth of a community exchange in historic Hagi. Guided by experts, explore a land where ancient customs and vibrant modernity exist in perfect harmony.
Trip Length
12 Days
Trip Starts
Tokyo
Trip Ends
Osaka
Departures
Trip Style
National Geographic Signature
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
12-99 Years
Max. Group Size
22
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
AJTONS
Countries Visited:
Itinerary
Welcome to Japan. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Tokyo, a city that pulses with electric energy. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel, a sanctuary of calm above the metropolis. Watch the city lights flicker to life from your window or step out to feel the rhythm of the streets, preparing for the immersion into Japanese culture that awaits.
Accommodation:
Hilton Tokyo
Included Experiences
- Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
- Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader: Your first opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and learn more about your tour before your first full day. Your Expedition Leader will be available at a dedicated hospitality desk at the hotel throughout the day to assist next-day schedule guidance, dining suggestions, and personalized support upon arrival.
Meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers for a welcome presentation then step into the intense world of sumo. Witness the raw power and discipline of wrestlers during a morning training session. After, join the athletes for a hearty chanko-nabe–the traditional hotpot stew eaten daily and gain insight into their regimented lives. In the afternoon, shift gears to the serenity of old Tokyo. Wander the historic district of Asakusa, passing through the massive Thunder Gate to the ancient Sensō-ji Temple. Stroll Nakamise Street, inhaling the scent of roasted rice crackers and incense, before a welcome dinner at a local Japanese restaurant nearby.
Accommodation:
Hilton Tokyo
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group: Begin with a welcome briefing and orientation led by your Expedition Leader, followed by an expert-led “Introduction to Japan” presentation.
- Expert-led: Introduction to Japan: Join an expert-led presentation about Japan to begin the journey.
- Sumo Experience and Chanko Lunch with the Wrestlers: Witness the powerful training of former professional wrestler or amateur wrestler up close, then join them for a hearty chanko-nabe — the traditional hotpot they eat every day to build strength. During the meal, the wrestlers will share their personal stories, experiences, and unique insights into sumo life.
- Asakusa Neighbourhood & Senso-ji Temple Tour: Discover this historic entertainment district on a guided tour of the area with your Expedition Leader. Take in one of Tokyo's iconic sites with a stop at Sensō-ji Temple, a colourful Buddhist temple and the oldest temple in the entire city. Leading up to the temple, the street is lined with shops selling yummy food and great souvenirs.
Immerse yourself in Tokyo’s world-renowned culinary heritage. Visit Tsukiji market to see the day's fresh catch and fragrant food stalls. A sushi lunch follows for the chance to indulge in the Japanese specialty. In the afternoon, explore the dynamic contrasts of the city — moving from the historic Edo period fishing market to the futuristic pulse of Tokyo's modern districts. From the fashion-forward streets of Ginza to the bustling Shibuya Crossing and the serene Meiji Shrine, experience the innovation that defines contemporary Japan alongside your Expedition Leader. The evening is yours to explore the city's endless dining options.
Accommodation:
Hilton Tokyo
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Tsukiji Market & Sushi Lunch: Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market, formerly known as the biggest fish and seafood market in the world, to get an idea of how important this industry is in Tokyo. Then enjoy a fresh sushi lunch at the local restaurant nearby.
- Discover Tokyo’s Captivating Contrasts: Join your Expedition leader to discover Tokyo’s captivating contrasts — from the bustling Shibuya Crossing and the serene Meiji Shrine to the sophisticated elegance of Ginza. Experience how tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.
Leave the neon behind for the tranquil Fuji-Hakone region–a landscape of ancient forests and crater lakes, with majestic Mount Fuji in the distance. Stroll the shores of Lake Ashi. Arrive at your traditional ryokan (guesthouse) in the late afternoon. Slip into a cotton yukata and find deep relaxation in the mineral-rich waters of the onsen (hot spring). Conclude the day with a multi-course Kaiseki dinner, a masterpiece of seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation.
Accommodation:
Gora Onsen Setsugekka Bettei Suiun
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Hakone Sightseeing: Stroll along the scenic lakeside at Hakone-Machi Port, enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji.
- Ryokan Stay and Kaiseki Dinner: Experience the ancient traditions of Japan with a night at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. The oldest hotels in the world are ryokans, a place for travelers of the 8th century to rest. Here you can soak in the rich mineral water of the onsen hot spring. For dinner indulge in a traditional kaiseki meal, a multi-course meal boasting seasonal ingredients, varied textures and a balance of flavors all tied together with precise presentation.
Start the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast and a final soak in the onsen. Then, experience the speed and engineering marvel of the shinkansen “bullet train” watching the countryside blur past on the ride to Kyoto. Enjoy a bento lunch on board. In Kyoto, step into a world of grace with an authentic tea ceremony led by a Maiko (apprentice geisha). Watch the precise, fluid movements during a traditional dance and learn the symbolism behind the kimono and gestures, gaining a rare, intimate glimpse into the city’s guarded geisha culture.
Accommodation:
Dusit Thani Kyoto
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Bullet Train: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
- Maiko Tea Ceremony: Enjoy an authentic traditional tea ceremony hosted by a real Kyoto geisha, also called a geiko, or their apprentice called a maiko! Watch as they perform a traditional Japanese dance in a room where you and other guests will be allowed to take pictures. During the performance, learn the meanings and symbolisms of the outfits, and dance of the Geisha.
Seek stillness at Joju-ji Temple with an exclusive Zen meditation session. Guided by a local priest, learn the principles of zazen in a hall normally closed to the public, finding quiet amidst the rustling bamboo and moss gardens. After, share a shojin ryori (vegetarian) meal with the monks, engaging in conversation about their daily lives. In the afternoon, walk the "nightingale floors" of Nijo Castle, designed to chirp under footsteps to warn of intruders. Explore the elegant wooden corridors and painted screens of this Shogunate residence, as your Expedition Leader illuminates the history of the samurai who once walked these halls.
Accommodation:
Dusit Thani Kyoto
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Expert-led Joju-ji Temple Zen Meditation: Step off the busy street and into the quiet world of Joju-ji Temple. This significant Zen Buddhist temple, originally founded in 810 AD and rebuilt during the early Edo Period of 17th century, serves as a sacred place for the practice and teaching of the Zazen school of Zen Buddhism. Take part in a guided zazen meditation led by a Zen priest, held in a private temple hall not open to the public, offering a rare space for reflection and clarity away from the pace of everyday life. Enjoy a traditional lunch with the monks and continue the conversation to deepen your understanding of Buddhism in Japan.
- Nijo Castle and the Samurai Era: Visit the Nijo Castle, the residence of the first shogun of the Edo Period built in 1603. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the property is divided into three areas: the Honmaru (main circular fortification), Ninomaru (secondary circle of defense), and the gorgeous gardens that surround both. Join your expedition leader to tour the grounds of the castle and hear stories of the historic samurai-era architecture and rule during the Edo Period.
Walk through the endless tunnel of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Watch the sunlight filter through the orange pillars as you wind up the forested hillside, a place of deep spiritual energy dedicated to the Shinto god of rice. For lunch, immerse yourself in Kyoto’s craftsmanship at the Kizakura Sake Brewery. Learn the brewing process and sample three premium sakes, paired with a lunch of sashimi and local delicacies. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Kyoto’s atmospheric alleyways or visit the Gion district at your own pace.
Accommodation:
Dusit Thani Kyoto
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Visit: Visit the Fushimi Inari shrine, located just outside of Kyoto. Walk under the thousands of iconic torii gates (as seen in the film Memoirs of a Geisha) and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The shrine itself is at the base of the Inari mountain but includes many trails up to smaller shrines in the area.
- Free Time: During your free time, relax at your hotel or explore your surroundings.
- Sake Tasting and Brewery Tour: Visit a local sake brewery and learn more about this typical Japanese beverage made from fermented rice. Learn about traditional brewing techniques and sample a selection of premium sakes paired with a seasonal lunch. Discover how Japan's celebrated rice wine reflects Kyoto’s craftsmanship and culture.
Board the shinkansen “bullet train” for the journey to Hiroshima. The afternoon holds a deeply moving private meeting with an A-bomb survivor. Listen to their firsthand account and reflections on peace — a powerful, emotional encounter that connects you directly to the human history of the city. Afterward, walk through the Peace Memorial Park, pausing at the Atomic Bomb Dome and the cenotaphs. Gain insight into the city’s resilience before concluding the day with a traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki dinner, watching the savory pancakes cooked on a hot griddle.
Accommodation:
Hilton Hiroshima
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Hiroshima Park and Peace Memorial: Walk through the Peace Park in the centre of Hiroshima, a living memorial dedicated to the tens of thousands who died from the atomic bomb blast in 1945. Visit the statue of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who died of leukemia as a result of the bomb blast, despite folding 1,000 origami paper cranes to appeal to the gods to make her well. See the frame of the Gembaku Dome, the sole building to withstand the explosion. Reflect, remember, and be reminded of the power we all hold to create peace.
- Meeting with an A-Bomb Survivor: Have an intimate experience with a survivor of the atomic bomb. They will share their personal experience from the bomb dropping and a reflection of peace.
- Bullet Train: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
- Okonomiyaki Dinner: Dig into the delicious Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. This famous savoury dish is known as the "soul food" of Hiroshima. The city's specialty is to layer an abundance of cabbage and yakisoba (fried noodles) and meat, topped with a fried egg, sacue and aonori (dried seaweed fleeks).
Travel to the coastal samurai town of Hagi, a G for Good–supported community. Begin with a welcome ceremony and try your hand at calligraphy before splitting into small groups to visit local homes. Join families to prepare a seasonal lunch, gaining a personal window into daily life and the warmth of Japanese hospitality. Share stories over tea, supporting the preservation of the town’s heritage. Return to Hiroshima in the evening for a light, tapas-style dinner, reflecting on the profound human connections made in Hagi.
Accommodation:
Hilton Hiroshima
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- A Day in the Hagi Community: Get to know a local family at this G Adventures for Good-supported community in Hagi, a farming, fishing and historical heritage town. In recent years, due to the rapidly aging population and limited income opportunities in many of the rural areas of Japan, many community members have had to leave Hagi in order to make a living. Feel the warmth of community with a welcome ceremony. Then learn about local history and customs while cooking a homemade meal with your hosts, try Japanese calligraphy and sip tea as you get to know your hosts.
Step into the heat and rhythm of a swordsmith’s workshop for a rare look at an ancient craft. Watch the master forge a samurai blade, observing the sparks fly, and take the hammer yourself to strike the steel, feeling the reverence of the tradition. After a local lunch, board the shinkansen to Osaka. Arrive in the evening and settle in with a casual ramen dinner, savoring the rich broth and noodles of one of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods in its culinary capital.
Accommodation:
W Osaka Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Bullet Train: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
- Swordsmith Workshop: Visit a swordsmith’s workshop for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the ancient art of Japanese sword making — a craft that embodies Japan’s spirit of discipline, precision, and beauty. Try your hand at striking the steel yourself, feeling the heat, rhythm, and reverence that defines this centuries-old tradition. During the visit, the swordsmith will also explain the process of forging and preserving Japanese swords, showcasing some of the beautifully maintained blades.
- Ramen Dinner: Slurp down a delicious bowl of ramen in Japan's foodie capital. Whether you prefer soy sauce, miso or pork broth based ramen, tonight is your night to dig in.
Stand before the majestic Osaka Castle, a symbol of power and resilience surrounded by massive stone walls and moats. Then, dive into the electrifying atmosphere of Dotonbori, Osaka’s neon-lit foodie district, exploring at your leisure for lunch amidst the giant 3D signs and bustling street food stalls. In the evening, gather for a final presentation from the National Geographic Expeditions Expert, then enjoy a farewell Teppanyaki dinner. Watch as premium Wagyu beef is artfully grilled before your eyes — a culinary performance that marks a fitting finale to your trip.
Accommodation:
W Osaka Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Osaka Castle Visit: Visit Osaka Castle, a dramatic symbol of Japan's feudal legacy and resilience. Walk the vast park, admire the golden accents of the main keep, and gain insight into the nation's turbulent samurai past. Don't forget to climb to the observation deck for a breathtaking view of the Osaka skyline contrasted with the historic grounds.
- Explore Dotonbori and Osaka's Best Neighbourhoods: Explore Osaka’s vibrant culinary district, where neon lights and the aroma of sizzling street food fill the air. Take the opportunity to indulge in a restaurant of your choice in this vibrant part of town. Then continue on to wander through Osaka’s lively shopping streets or pick up last-minute souvenirs.
- Free Time: An afternoon at leisure allows you to check off your list of "must-see" spots in Osaka.
- Expert-led Wrap up Presentation: Join a local expert for a wrap up presentation, reflecting on the journey and cultural insights gained throughout the trip.
- Teppanyaki Dinner: Celebrate your final evening in Japan with an incredible dinner of teppanyaki, meaning broiled on a steel grill. Enjoy premium wagyu beef and other fresh seasonal ingredients that show off Japan's elevated culinary excellence.
Your expedition to Japan concludes today. After breakfast, individual transfers are provided to the airport at any time during the day.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Departure Transfer: You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Trip Inclusions
- Witness the power of sumo training up close and share traditional hotpot with wrestlers.
- Experience the grace of Kyoto at a private tea ceremony and dance by an apprentice geisha.
- Strike the steel yourself in a swordsmith’s workshop to learn the rhythm of the craft.
- Find stillness at Joju-ji Temple with an exclusive meditation session led by a Zen priest.
- Cook and connect with local families in the samurai town of Hagi sharing stories over tea.
- Your G for Good Moment: A Day in the Hagi Community, Hagi
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Tokyo
- Your Local Living Moment: Sumo Experience and Chanko Lunch with the Wrestlers, Tokyo
- Your Foodie Moment: Tsukiji Market & Sushi Lunch, Tokyo
- Your Local Living Moment: Maiko Tea Ceremony, Kyoto
- Signature Moment: Expert-led Joju-ji Temple Zen Meditation, Kyoto
- Your Foodie Moment: Sake Tasting and Brewery Tour, Kyoto
- Your Foodie Moment: Okonomiyaki Dinner, Hiroshima
- Your Hands-On Moment: Swordsmith Workshop, Hiroshima
- Your Foodie Moment: Ramen Dinner, Osaka
- Your Foodie Moment: Teppanyaki Dinner, Osaka
- Arrival transfer
- Sumo Experience and Chanko Lunch with Wrestlers
- Asakusa city tour
- Tokyo city tour
- Sightseeing around Hakone-machi Port
- Japanese Kaiseki dinner
- Nijo castle visit
- Fushimi Inari visit
- Peace memorial park and museum visit
- Visit Osaka castle
- Visit Dotonbori
- Departure transfer
- Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout
- Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles
- Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Walking
- Bullet Train
- Private Vehicle
- National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert
- Hotels (10 Nights), Ryokan (1 Night)
- Japan is one of the most populous countries in the world and space is at a premium. Therefore, hotels rooms are small! Additionally, most Japanese hotels do not have designated non-smoking rooms. Therefore, we ask hotels to deodorize rooms before check in.
- Ryokan are traditional inns found across Japan. Featuring tatami floors (soft mats of woven straw), futon beds, Japanese-style baths, cotton kimono (casual robe worn to lounge around or to head to the bath), and elaborate kaiseki meals that are pleasing both to the eyes and the pallet, a ryokan is the perfect place to experience traditional customs and hospitality. As ryokan are usually top tier accommodations, most guests stay only one night, often to celebrate a special occasion or holiday. Don’t be intimidated by the formalities inherent to a stay at a ryokan, your hosts will welcome you the same way they do all their guests. Have fun and enjoy this relaxing opportunity to learn more about Japan’s unique customs.
- Please note that some of the traditional Japanese inns only offer shared bathing facilities at the onsen (hot springs) bathing area. This means that individual shower stalls will not be available, instead several shower stations are available in an open, same-sex bathing area. Shared bathhouses and onsen are an essential part of Japan’s culture, traditionally serving as a place for men or women to gather, relax, and discuss the days happenings.
- 11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 6 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, more giving you meaningful experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: National Geographic Signature
These ultra-premium journeys combine deep cultural immersion with five-star comfort and the authority of National Geographic. Created in collaboration with G Adventures, each experience offers rare access, meaningful connections with communities, and expert insight from leading specialists.
With world-class service, thoughtfully curated inclusions, and unforgettable Signature Moments throughout, these journeys are designed for travellers who seek refined luxury without losing a sense of purpose or discovery.
Dates & Pricing
AUD
Saturday
06 Mar 2027
06 Mar 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
17 Mar 2027
17 Mar 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $21,099
A$20,677
Save $422
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
20 Mar 2027
20 Mar 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
31 Mar 2027
31 Mar 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $22,599
A$22,147
Save $452
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
03 Apr 2027
03 Apr 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
14 Apr 2027
14 Apr 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $22,599
A$22,147
Save $452
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
17 Apr 2027
17 Apr 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
28 Apr 2027
28 Apr 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $22,599
A$22,147
Save $452
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
08 May 2027
08 May 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
19 May 2027
19 May 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $19,549
A$19,158
Save $391
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
18 Sep 2027
18 Sep 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
29 Sep 2027
29 Sep 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $21,099
A$20,677
Save $422
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
02 Oct 2027
02 Oct 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
13 Oct 2027
13 Oct 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $21,099
A$20,677
Save $422
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
16 Oct 2027
16 Oct 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
27 Oct 2027
27 Oct 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $22,599
A$22,147
Save $452
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
13 Nov 2027
13 Nov 27
Tokyo
Wednesday
24 Nov 2027
24 Nov 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $21,099
A$20,677
Save $422
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
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. T&C’s apply.
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. 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. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and 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.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and 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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