Home > Tours > Asia Tours > Japan Tours > Essential Japan

Essential Japan

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor

Fully Guided Adventure Small Group Rail 18-30's Bullet Train (Shinkansen)

Our Price From

US$1,410

Save up To $470

Twin Share (Per Person)

Check Availability

Trip Length

10 Days

Trip Starts

Tokyo

Trip Finishes

Osaka

10 Day Essential Japan Itinerary (Intrepid)

Countries Explored: Japan

Trip Operator

Intrepid Travel

165 Reviews

Trip Styles

Basix , 18 to 35s

Departures

Jan 2026 to Dec 2027

Budget

Affordable

Max. Group Size

Pace

Leisurely

Guide Level

Fully Guided

Trip Code

CJYO

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 10 Day Essential Japan. Say Konnichiwa to Japan – a diverse land of culture, innovation and cuisine. With your new group of friends, you’ll get your fix of sushi and shopping in Tokyo before soaking up Kanazawa’s crazy Samurai culture (this is a great place to knock back a couple glasses of sake, too). Wander gorgeous gardens and temples, then brush up on your world history at Hiroshima at the sobering Peace Park and Museum. Spy geishas in Kyoto’s Gion district and get your Beyonce on at an Osaka karaoke bar. You’ll also have loads of free time read more

Itinerary

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan. Your adventure begins in Tokyo – the thriving capital of an ancient land – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not explore at your own pace. You could check out the free Sensoji Temple or the Imperial Palace, then hit up the Avatar Robot Café for lunch. This purpose-driven enterprise is not driven by AI at all – the waiters are actually operated by people living with disabilities. This is to give employees who have difficulty leaving their homes a better chance at employment. After your meeting, you might like to join your new travel buddies for an optional dinner in one of Tokyo’s most popular hubs.

Head out to explore the Shibuya area with your group this morning. Look down on one of the busiest intersections in the world at Shibuya station and visit the statue of Hachiko – the famous loyal dog. Next, indulge your eyes and your belly at a depachika food hall, where vendors sell everything from bento boxes to formal gifts. Maybe grab lunch to eat in Yoyogi Park (home to many events from the first Japan Olympics) before your visit to Meiji Jingu Shrine. This afternoon, you’ll visit Harajuku – the home of quirky youth pop culture. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. If you’re a cat lover, the Gotokuji Cat Temple might be right up your alley. Tonight is also the perfect opportunity to hit Tokyo’s nightlife, whether you're enjoying yakitori at a bustling street stall in Omoide Yokocho or you’re belting out some tunes at karaoke.

This morning, speed through central Japan on a bullet train bound for Kanazawa. This city is best known for Kenroku-en – the 17th-century gardens – and as the home of the Samurai. Here, you can find beautifully preserved Samurai and Geisha districts, historic temples and some awesome markets. After checking into your hotel, maybe explore Kenroku-en Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park. Tonight is a free evening so you can explore the streets at your own pace and maybe indulge in Kanazawa's izakaya and famed fresh seafood.

Explore Kanazawa on foot today, on a walking tour of the Higashi Chaya district. Get lost among Geisha as you walk through alleyways and traditional Chaya houses, known locally as places of tradition, feasts and entertainment. If tea's your thing, perhaps enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at one of the local tea houses. The afternoon will then be free for you to explore on your own.

Today, catch a train through the Japanese Alps to Kyoto – once the imperial capital of Japan and one of the most beautiful cities in the country. With over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto is a great place to get lost in. With a good bus network linking all its key sites, you can hop on the bus to get around today – maybe visit the magnificent, gold-plated Kinkaku-ji Temple with its expansive grounds in Kyoto’s northwest, or Nijo Castle – the feudal-era castle famous for its squeaking ‘nightingale floors,’ designed to alert inhabitants to approaching ninja. In the early evening, meet up with your leader for a walk through Kyoto’s famous Gion district – the heart of the city’s Geisha culture.

Join your leader for a cultural experience that dates to the 17th century – the Kyo-Yuzen dyeing technique. Unlike immersion dyeing, this involves using stencils to apply colour carefully to create delicate, original designs. You’ll have the choice of a handkerchief, a phone case or a tote bag (subject to stock availability), which you can then dye using this traditional hand-painting method. Today you'll also take a walk in the wooded hills near Fushimi Inari-Taisho, famous for its Shinto 'fox temple' and atmospheric red torii gates – a must-see for keen photographers. The afternoon is free for you to explore, and your leader can give you recommendations on what to see and how to get there. Cycling is also a great way to see the city, and renting a bike is inexpensive. It's your last night in Kyoto, so make sure you try some of Kyoto’s famed Kyo-ryori (Kyoto cuisine) or wander the food market of Nishiki in the city’s heart.

Hiroshima is a bustling metropolis with a tragic history and this morning, you’ll travel there via bullet train. When you arrive, your leader will take you to the Peace Park and the ruins of the A-Bomb Dome building – one of 11 structures left partially standing as a reminder of the destruction of nuclear war following the atomic bomb blast on 6 August 1945. The Peace Park contains monuments and a sobering museum dedicated to Hiroshima and international peace. The afternoon is free to rest, relax or continue exploring the city. Tonight, try Hiroshima’s most famous dish – okonomiyaki (savoury pancake of cabbage, meat or seafood) – grilled in front of you on a sizzling hotplate. (D)

Today you’ll jump on a local train and a ferry to spend the day at the nearby island of Miyajima with its famous 'floating' Torii Gate and the grand Itsukushima-jinja Shrine. Hike through the woods to the peak of Mt Misen for some stunning views of the Inland Sea stretching far out below you. Be sure to watch out for inquisitive and eternally hungry deer that roam the island. Back in Hiroshima, you can enjoy a free evening tonight.

Travel by bullet train to Osaka today – what better way to finish your trip than in a city with the motto 'kuidaore' (eat until you drop)! Osaka is Japan's unofficial culinary capital, with its tiny backstreets overflowing with restaurants and bars serving up local delicacies. You can also discover Japan's answer to fast food – Osaka is credited with the first kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants after its inventor (the owner of a sushi restaurant with staffing issues) watched beer bottles on a conveyor belt at the nearby Asahi brewery. When you arrive, head out on a leader-led walking tour of the Dotombori district, famous for its shopping and entertainment. At night, this place is lit with the colour of hundreds of neon lights! If time allows, explore the vibrant Shinsekai district to see Osaka’s iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. For dinner, maybe try kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), or takoyaki (grilled octopus), an Osaka speciality.

There are no activities planned for today, and you can depart at any time after check out. If you’d like to extend your stay and explore the many neighbourhoods of Osaka, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Inclusions

Explore Japan’s amazingly diverse destinations with loads of free time to see them your way. With all the nitty gritty details and transport worked out for you, you can focus on indulging in endless sushi, katsudon and okonomoyaki.
Immerse yourself in the varied neighbourhoods of Tokyo – from the technological subculture of Akihabara to the wild side of fashion in Harajuku and the nightlife of Roppongi – each suburb is almost like a city of its own!
Uncover the sobering history of Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Museum – a vital destination for all Japan travellers to gain an insight into the tragic events of the nation’s past.
Wander Kyoto’s Gion district, learn the traditional technique of hand-dying fabric with a creative workshop, then walk through Fushimi Inari-Taisha (the perfect spot for some iconic Japan photos).
Live your Samurai fantasies in feudal-era Kanazawa – known as the birthplace of the Samurai. Then, wander through gorgeous historic gardens and hit the bars to debrief with your group.

Multishare Hostel (5 nights)
Pod Hostel (2 nights)
Family Owned Guesthouse (2 nights)

1 Dinners included

Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Intrepid regularly update their itineraries throughout the year based on feedback and local conditions. Therefore the itinerary you see now may differ from when you booked. Global Journeys will provide you with detailed trip notes at the time of quoting, along with a finalised itinerary and trip notes before your trip departs.

Trip Style: Basix

Our Basix trips are designed for travelers of any age on a budget. Using simple, clean and centrally located accommodation (typically with a 2-to-2.5-star average rating), local transport where we can, along with plenty of free time. This means you can do the things that suit your budget and interests, rather than paying for inclusions you don’t want. Meals are generally not included, but your experienced local leader will have some great suggestions!

Download Brochure

Intrepid 18 to 35's (2025-26)

Travel with a small group of like-minded 18 to 35-year-olds who care about the world and want to experience it deeply. Intrepid’s youth adventures balance must-see highlights with plenty of free time, all led by passionate local leaders who know every hidden gem. With small groups, big energy, and a strong commitment to responsible travel, these trips more

Download Brochure

Dates & Pricing USD

Flexible Deposit

Cancel up to 56 days before departure and your deposit becomes a credit for future travel.

Definite Departures

Your Intrepid trip is guaranteed to depart as soon as one full paying traveler is booked!

Twin Share

Solo Share

Sunday 18 Jan 2026 18 Jan 26 Tokyo

Tuesday 27 Jan 2026 27 Jan 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Our Price

US$2,015

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Sold Out

Sunday 25 Jan 2026 25 Jan 26 Tokyo

Tuesday 03 Feb 2026 03 Feb 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,895

US$1,654

Save $241

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Sunday 08 Feb 2026 08 Feb 26 Tokyo

Tuesday 17 Feb 2026 17 Feb 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Our Price

US$1,905

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Sold Out

Sunday 22 Feb 2026 22 Feb 26 Tokyo

Tuesday 03 Mar 2026 03 Mar 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,880

US$1,598

Save $282

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Thursday 26 Feb 2026 26 Feb 26 Tokyo

Saturday 07 Mar 2026 07 Mar 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,880

US$1,410

Save $470

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Sunday 08 Mar 2026 08 Mar 26 Tokyo

Tuesday 17 Mar 2026 17 Mar 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $2,035

US$1,776

Save $259

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Thursday 12 Mar 2026 12 Mar 26 Tokyo

Saturday 21 Mar 2026 21 Mar 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $2,165

US$1,890

Save $275

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Thursday 19 Mar 2026 19 Mar 26 Tokyo

Saturday 28 Mar 2026 28 Mar 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,995

US$1,741

Save $254

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Sunday 22 Mar 2026 22 Mar 26 Tokyo

Tuesday 31 Mar 2026 31 Mar 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,995

US$1,741

Save $254

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 24 Mar 2026 24 Mar 26 Tokyo

Thursday 02 Apr 2026 02 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $2,050

US$1,790

Save $260

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Thursday 26 Mar 2026 26 Mar 26 Tokyo

Saturday 04 Apr 2026 04 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $2,050

US$1,790

Save $260

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Sunday 29 Mar 2026 29 Mar 26 Tokyo

Tuesday 07 Apr 2026 07 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $2,050

US$1,790

Save $260

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 31 Mar 2026 31 Mar 26 Tokyo

Thursday 09 Apr 2026 09 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $2,050

US$1,790

Save $260

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Thursday 02 Apr 2026 02 Apr 26 Tokyo

Saturday 11 Apr 2026 11 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,995

US$1,741

Save $254

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Sunday 05 Apr 2026 05 Apr 26 Tokyo

Tuesday 14 Apr 2026 14 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,995

US$1,741

Save $254

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 07 Apr 2026 07 Apr 26 Tokyo

Thursday 16 Apr 2026 16 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,995

US$1,741

Save $254

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Wednesday 08 Apr 2026 08 Apr 26 Tokyo

Friday 17 Apr 2026 17 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,995

US$1,741

Save $254

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Saturday 11 Apr 2026 11 Apr 26 Tokyo

Monday 20 Apr 2026 20 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $1,995

US$1,741

Save $254

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Tuesday 14 Apr 2026 14 Apr 26 Tokyo

Thursday 23 Apr 2026 23 Apr 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $2,050

US$1,790

Save $260

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Thursday 07 May 2026 07 May 26 Tokyo

Saturday 16 May 2026 16 May 26 Osaka

Details

Definite Departure

Exclusive Savings

Was: $2,080

US$1,816

Save $264

Twin Share (Per Personpp)

Inquire

Show more dates...

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 Inquire. 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 Intrepid. 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.

Japan Real Food Adventure

11 Days Tokyo Osaka

Operated By: Intrepid

From 3,876

Save 1,502

Cycle Japan

11 Days Kyoto Tokyo

Operated By: Intrepid

From 5,079

Save 1,790

Classic Japan

11 Days Kyoto Tokyo

Operated By: Intrepid

From 5,823

Save 1,059

Japan Highlights

9 Days Tokyo Osaka

Operated By: Intrepid

From 3,112

Save 898

Essential Japan

Overview

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1: Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo

Day 3: Kanazawa

Day 4: Kanazawa

Day 5: Kyoto

Day 6: Kyoto

Day 7: Hiroshima

Day 8: Hiroshima

Day 9: Osaka

Day 10: Osaka

Trip Inclusions Expand All

Sightseeing Highlights

Accommodation

Included Meals

Trip Notes

Download Brochure

Intrepid 18 to 35's (2025-26)

Dates & Pricing USD

Flexible Deposit

Definite Departures

Similar Tours

Itinerary

Trip Inclusions