Overview
Want to not only see Japan, but actually experience it too? In all its ancient, futuristic, incredible glory? In under two weeks, this trip gives you both the highlights and the lesser-known spots only locals know about. The culture and the slightly crazy. The ultra-modern and the historic. The scenery and the cities. And all the ramen, okonomiyaki, udon, katsu, yakitori and sake you can handle. This is your insider guide.
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Our Price From
A$4,933 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $366 per person
Trip Length
12 Days
Trip Starts
Tokyo
Trip Ends
Osaka
Departures
Sep 2026 to Mar 2027
Countries Visited:
Accommodation
2.5 - 3.5 Star
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
18-32 Years
Max. Group Size
18
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
TJJTR6
Itinerary
The next 12 days delving into Japanese culture looks like: discovering the modern, the ancient and all the weird, whacky and totally wonderful in between.
First: say konnichiwa to your fellow explorers. Then: we'll kick things off with a group dinner at a local restaurant. Nihon e yōkoso – welcome to Japan!
First: say konnichiwa to your fellow explorers. Then: we'll kick things off with a group dinner at a local restaurant. Nihon e yōkoso – welcome to Japan!
Accommodation:
The b Asakusa (or similar)
Included Meals:
Dinner
Down your cup of matcha because we've got a great day ahead of us. First up, it's time for the Meiji Shrine — Tokyo's grandest Shintō shrine. Soak up its serene atmosphere, make an offering, and wander the beautiful gardens. Important: you've got to be covered up when visiting this place – and any other religious site in Japan.
Next, we're heading to the quirky Harajuku district with our in-the-know Trip Leader. Expect kawaii culture galore: neon tutus, rainbow-coloured wigs, bubble tea and fairy floss. We'll also swing by the legendary Shibuya Crossing.
Then: we're off to check out the Goma Ritual of consecrated fire at Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple. Your wishes could be part of this experience. And tonight? Get ready to party at an Izakaya (Japan's equivalent of a pub).
Next, we're heading to the quirky Harajuku district with our in-the-know Trip Leader. Expect kawaii culture galore: neon tutus, rainbow-coloured wigs, bubble tea and fairy floss. We'll also swing by the legendary Shibuya Crossing.
Then: we're off to check out the Goma Ritual of consecrated fire at Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple. Your wishes could be part of this experience. And tonight? Get ready to party at an Izakaya (Japan's equivalent of a pub).
Accommodation:
The b Asakusa (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
It's your last day in Tokyo – spend it however you like. Want to breathe in the fresh mountain air? Join a day tour of Mount Fuji and Hakone for some out-of-this-world scenery, and serious beauty.
A side of Japan you only see in person. This evening: quiz your Trip Leader on where to find the best ramen – and be prepared to order on a ticket machine with pictures of the dishes. It might be a lucky dip, but that's what adventuring is all about.
A side of Japan you only see in person. This evening: quiz your Trip Leader on where to find the best ramen – and be prepared to order on a ticket machine with pictures of the dishes. It might be a lucky dip, but that's what adventuring is all about.
Accommodation:
The b Asakusa (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Rise and shine – it's an early start to get the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train) to Takayama. Sit back and soak up the sights as the Japanese Alps glide by. Then it's time for a taste of traditional life with a visit to Hida Folk Village. And tonight? For the meat eaters among us, there's an optional Hida beef dinner on the menu.
Accommodation:
Hotel Amanek Hida Takayama (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Today we'll start with a breakfast spread before visiting the bustling morning riverside markets. Pull on your walking shoes to explore Takayama Jinya – the last remaining government outpost from the time of the Samurai and Shoguns.
This afternoon, sample some sake at a local brewery. Then there's time to do whatever you want. Explore the nooks and crannies, the narrow streets, the tranquil waters. Do it solo or take your fellow travellers along for the ride. Tonight, you're free to grab a bite wherever you like.
This afternoon, sample some sake at a local brewery. Then there's time to do whatever you want. Explore the nooks and crannies, the narrow streets, the tranquil waters. Do it solo or take your fellow travellers along for the ride. Tonight, you're free to grab a bite wherever you like.
Accommodation:
Hotel Amanek Hida Takayama (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Hello Hiroshima. When we arrive this afternoon, we'll make our way to the Memorial Peace Park and its museum. Here, we'll discover the tragic events of 6 August 1945 when the world's first nuclear bomb was dropped on the city.
Later, dinner is on the cards at a local okonomiyaki restaurant. Try the savoury teppanyaki pancakes — a chance to practice your chopstick skills, or risk adding a few more stains to your shirt.
Later, dinner is on the cards at a local okonomiyaki restaurant. Try the savoury teppanyaki pancakes — a chance to practice your chopstick skills, or risk adding a few more stains to your shirt.
Accommodation:
HOTEL MYSTAYS Hiroshima Peace Park (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
All aboard the ferry to the island of Miyajima to check out the Itsukushima Shrine. After, we've got the whole afternoon to explore before settling in for sunset. The floating torii gate is spectacular.
Back in Hiroshima: use your free time wisely. Why not try some more okonomiyaki or tuck into some local oysters with a glass of sake. When in Japan, right?
Back in Hiroshima: use your free time wisely. Why not try some more okonomiyaki or tuck into some local oysters with a glass of sake. When in Japan, right?
Accommodation:
HOTEL MYSTAYS Hiroshima Peace Park (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Today, we're hitting the tracks to Japan's traditional capital, Kyoto. Home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, this place ticks all the spiritual boxes. We'll visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine – with plenty of time to hike to the top and explore the torii gates. Feeling peckish? Grab some lunch before we stop by the Nishiki food market. Then: the afternoon is all yours for exploring.
Accommodation:
ibis Styles Kyoto Shijo (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Time to explore the best of Kyoto — and we're starting with a full day of sights. First up is Kinkaku‑ji, the beautiful Golden Pavilion, a serene spot that captures the essence of Zen. From there, it's on to Arashiyama, where the towering bamboo forest will make you feel like you've stepped into another world. You've got some free time here, so make the most of it! Get lost in the bamboo forest. Cross Tokugetsukyo Bridge. See Tenryu-ji Temple and its lush garden.
After breathing in fresh Japanese air and clocking up some serious steps, it's time to hit Pontocho. Atmospheric and traditional, this place is where real Kyoto foodies thrive.
After breathing in fresh Japanese air and clocking up some serious steps, it's time to hit Pontocho. Atmospheric and traditional, this place is where real Kyoto foodies thrive.
Accommodation:
ibis Styles Kyoto Shijo (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Today we're headed for Osaka: the foodie capital of Japan. Here, they even have a word for “scoff till you drop” – kuidaore. Keen to put it to the test? We've got a date with Dōtonbori Market on the agenda. Think street food that really hits the spot. From deep‑fried skewers to savory pancakes, you're in for a treat.
Accommodation:
Ibis Osaka Umeda (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Start with a hearty breakfast, then set out to explore Osaka your way. It's the perfect chance to experience the city at your own pace — and make every moment count. If you're a foodie, a ramen and gyoza cooking class is a must. If culture is more your scene, don't miss Shitennoji, one of Japan's oldest temples.
In the evening, we'll come together one last time for a farewell dinner at a cozy local spot, then end the night singing our hearts out at a karaoke bar you won't forget. It's been a journey full of moments and memories — and this feels like the right way to send it off.
In the evening, we'll come together one last time for a farewell dinner at a cozy local spot, then end the night singing our hearts out at a karaoke bar you won't forget. It's been a journey full of moments and memories — and this feels like the right way to send it off.
Accommodation:
Ibis Osaka Umeda (or similar)
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to the Land of the Rising Sun — and to the friends you've met along the way. Swap contacts, stay in touch, and start dreaming up your next adventure.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Trip Inclusions
- Visit Meiji Shrine
- Walking tour of Tokyo's Harajuku and Shibuya districts with Trip Leader
- Experience the Goma Ritual of consecrated fire at Fukagawa Fudo-do Temple
- Bullet train to Takayama
- Visit to Hida folk village
- Visit the morning riverside markets in Takayama
- Sake tasting at a local brewery
- Visit Takayama Jinya
- Visit the Hiroshima Memorial Peace Park and Museum
- Okonomiyaki dinner experience in Hiroshima
- Visit the Itsukushima Shrine on the island of Miyajima
- Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Visit the Nishiki food market
- Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
- Visit the Arashiyama bamboo forest
- Visit Tenryu-ji Temple and Garden
- Orientation walk of Dōtonbori Market with Trip Leader
- Group karaoke experience in Osaka
- 11 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners
- 11 nights in hotel-style accommodation (twin or double)
- High-speed trains, public transport
- Trip leader
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Prices are for land/cruise only. International flights not included.
Operator
Topdeck's origin story was small group touring. It was 14 absolute adventurers who were fun and spirited and ready to go out there and see everything. At the end of the 90's and into the 2000's, Topdeck moved to large coaches and now we're returning to or roots. Our travellers don’t see bigger groups as ‘more social’ -they more want to connect quickly, with like-minded people, in a way that feels less overwhelming and less intrusive.
Small group touring unlocks up so many opportunities. We can now get into local tavernas or hole-in-the-wall restaurants, sit family-style, and build that cultural connection. We can run small optional expereinces and secure entry to highlights like the Alhambra much more easily than with a large coach. It makes each experience more immersive and flexible.
What’s changed is the trip itself: better choice of centrally located accommodation, richer in-destination experiences, and more inclusivity.
Small group touring unlocks up so many opportunities. We can now get into local tavernas or hole-in-the-wall restaurants, sit family-style, and build that cultural connection. We can run small optional expereinces and secure entry to highlights like the Alhambra much more easily than with a large coach. It makes each experience more immersive and flexible.
What’s changed is the trip itself: better choice of centrally located accommodation, richer in-destination experiences, and more inclusivity.
Small-group Discoveries
Capped at 18 people, our small group trips hit that sweet spot. No forced fun or ‘follow the flag’ cringe fests, just real insider experiences (and hush-hush local restaurant reservations) you wouldn’t get if you showed up with a big crowd.
More Time in the Moment
You’ll arrive at each location in the fastest, smoothest way possible – with zero time wasted. And because we spend longer in those headliner cities, you’ll get free time to explore them more deeply.
Topdeck Crew
Our Trip Leaders are locals who love surprising you. They’ll take you to hidden tapas bars or the perfect sunrise spot no one else knows. They handle logistics, spark group bonds, and make every moment seamless and unforgettable.
Dates & Pricing
AUD
Loyalty Discount
Travelled with Topdeck before? Save up to 5% off your next trip!
Multi-Trip Discount
Save up to 10% when you book multiple Topdeck trips at the same time!
Sunday
12 Jul 2026
12 Jul 26
Tokyo
Thursday
23 Jul 2026
23 Jul 26
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
A$5,299
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
16 Aug 2026
16 Aug 26
Tokyo
Thursday
27 Aug 2026
27 Aug 26
Osaka
Details
Not Available
Our Price
A$5,299
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
13 Sep 2026
13 Sep 26
Tokyo
Thursday
24 Sep 2026
24 Sep 26
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,299
A$4,933
Save $366
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
04 Oct 2026
04 Oct 26
Tokyo
Thursday
15 Oct 2026
15 Oct 26
Osaka
Details
Not Available
Our Price
A$5,299
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
18 Oct 2026
18 Oct 26
Tokyo
Thursday
29 Oct 2026
29 Oct 26
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,399
A$5,291
Save $108
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
01 Nov 2026
01 Nov 26
Tokyo
Thursday
12 Nov 2026
12 Nov 26
Osaka
Details
Not Available
Our Price
A$5,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
15 Nov 2026
15 Nov 26
Tokyo
Thursday
26 Nov 2026
26 Nov 26
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,499
A$5,389
Save $110
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
06 Dec 2026
06 Dec 26
Tokyo
Thursday
17 Dec 2026
17 Dec 26
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,299
A$5,193
Save $106
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
10 Jan 2027
10 Jan 27
Tokyo
Thursday
21 Jan 2027
21 Jan 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,299
A$5,193
Save $106
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
07 Feb 2027
07 Feb 27
Tokyo
Thursday
18 Feb 2027
18 Feb 27
Osaka
Details
Available Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,299
A$5,193
Save $106
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
14 Mar 2027
14 Mar 27
Tokyo
Thursday
25 Mar 2027
25 Mar 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,499
A$5,389
Save $110
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
28 Mar 2027
28 Mar 27
Tokyo
Thursday
08 Apr 2027
08 Apr 27
Osaka
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,499
A$5,389
Save $110
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 Topdeck. 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 Topdeck. 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.
