Classic Japan
Experience Overview
Steeped in centuries of tradition and full of culinary prowess, Japan is awash with sights to see and histories to uncover. From Kyoto to Tokyo, you’ll spend 11 days exploring the heart of Japan. Stay in a monastery in Koya-san, walk part of the Nakasendo Highway, learn about the sobering history of Hiroshima and cruise along the Sumida River in Tokyo. Be tempted by tempura, savour your sushi and sip shochu as you explore the endless diversity of Japan with your small group, all with a local leader who knows all the best places by your side.
Highlights
- Discover Japan's most iconic city sites, from the geiko (geisha) district and Edo-period Nijo Castle in Kyoto to the temple district and contemporary highlights of Tokyo.
- Learn more about the sobering past of Hiroshima at the memorial park, museums and monuments dedicated to the victims – these sites now advocate for world peace, serving as a reminder of the devastation of war.
- Feast on okonomiyaki – Japan’s signature savoury pancake of egg, cabbage, soba noodles and meat or seafood – at an included dinner in Hiroshima.
- Meet the locals over a home-cooked dinner during your stay in a ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) in the mountain town of Tsumago – a village preserved from the Edo period.
- Spend a night in Koya-san’s Shukubo Temple and learn about the customs of traditional Japanese accommodation as you share vegetarian meals with the monks who run the lodgings.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1711
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Comfortable
Transport: Public Bus, Subway, Bullet Train, Train, Boat
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Rail & Cruises
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: CJKJ
Starts: Kyoto, Japan
Finishes: Tokyo, Japan
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (10), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Hotel (8 nights), Temple Stay (1 night), Ryokan (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $6919 ($629 /day)
Itinerary
Konnichiwa! Welcome to Kyoto. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you have some free time, step out onto the streets for your first taste of this beautiful city. Originally called Heian-kyo (literally 'peaceful and tranquil capital'), Kyoto was named the national capital by Emperor Kammu in AD794. The city had its golden age as Japan’s capital for over 1000 years before the emperor and government were moved to the new capital of Tokyo. After the meeting tonight, perhaps head out for your first taste of traditional Japanese food. As the former millennium-long home of the imperial kitchen, Kyoto is known as the centre of Japanese culinary tradition, so you should begin this trip with a delicious meal!
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
You’ll begin the day with a visit to some of Kyoto’s most important sites. Visit the opulent Nijo Castle – home to the Tokugawa Shoguns who ruled the country during the Edo period. Check out the ‘nightingale floors’ of Ninomaru Palace, which squeak to warn of intruders (like otherwise silent ninjas). From the castle, you’ll take a short bus ride to Ryoan-ji – perhaps Japan’s most famous Zen garden – where carefully placed rocks sit in an immaculately raked bed of gravel. Also nearby is the partially gold leaf-covered Kinkakuji Temple, immortalised in Yukio Mishima’s novel 'The Temple of the Golden Pavilion'. This evening, take a step back in time on a walk through the narrow streets of Kyoto's charming Gion district. An entertainment district and the centre of geiko culture, Gion comes alive at night. If you’re lucky, you might spot geiko (geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha) in their elaborate dress and make up. If you’ve got the budget, perhaps attend a tea ceremony at one of the district's teahouses or splash out on a kaiseki meal in a ryotei (small restaurants serving traditional multi-course cuisine).
Included Activities:
- Kyoto - Ryoanji Zen Garden
- Kyoto - Nijo Castle
- Kyoto - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Kyoto - Gion District walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a full free day and there’s so much for you to explore. With its many cultural landmarks, historical sites, an abundance of traditional arts and a rich literary history, Kyoto is regarded as the cultural heart of Japan. Maybe visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of torii (gates) that line a path up Mt Inari. Kyoto is a city that lends itself to walking – it’s highly recommended you take a gentle stroll through the nearby eastern hills along the Philosopher’s Path that links Ginkaku-ji (the Temple of the Silver Pavilion) with Nanzen-ji Temple. This walk can be extended south through well-preserved Old Town areas to Kiyomizu-dera (Temple of Pure Water) from which there’s an acclaimed view across a wooded gorge toward Kyoto. Also recommended, for those visiting in April, is a visit to the theatre for a presentation of Miyako Odori (the Cherry Blossom Dance) performed by elaborately dressed geikos and maikos. Close to Kyoto station, you'll also find the architecturally impressive Higashi Honganji Temple and Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1001 gold statues of Kannon. In the late afternoon, you might like to return to the Kawaramachi or Shijo Dori area of central Kyoto to browse the shops or enjoy dinner in one of the many restaurants in these buzzing districts.
Optional Activities:
- Kyoto - Cooking Class from (8800 JPY)
- Kyoto - Bike hire (per day) from (1200 JPY)
- Kyoto - Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) (500 JPY)
- Kyoto - Nanzenji Temple (600 JPY)
- Kyoto - Kiyomizu-dera (500 JPY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a train into Koya-san, spotting as many of the 120 temples dotted around the region as you can. Founded in the 8th century by the Buddhist saint Kobo Daishi, Koya-san has been the centre of Shingon Buddhism for over 1200 years. The last leg of the train journey takes you through some of Japan’s finest scenery, on a mountain road rising through the clouds, 915 m above sea level. The most impressive sight on Mt Koya is Japan’s largest cemetery – Okunoin – the resting place of many of Japan's most famous people. Some 200,000 stone statues, wooden totems and sometimes unusual memorials (a rocket marks the site of a mausoleum for the workers of an aerospace company) lie throughout this moss-laden forest. After visiting the mountain’s sights, make your way to the comfortable Shukubo (temple lodging) for the night. Here, you might interact with some of the monks that run the lodgings and learn about the customs of traditional Japanese accommodation. Tonight, experience a taste of shojin ryori – Buddhist vegetarian cooking made with fresh, simple ingredients.
Included Activities:
- Koya-san - Okunoin Cemetery
Optional Activities:
- Koya-san - Kongobu-ji Temple (1000 JPY)
Accommodation:
- Temple Stay (Number of Nights: 1)
Return by cable railway to Gokurakubashi, then travel to Osaka to board your first shinkansen (bullet train), headed for Hiroshima – you’ll reach speeds of up to 270 km per hour! As you speed south, stop to visit Japan’s most impressive samurai castle at Himeji. The building, which has survived earthquakes and war since the mid-16th century, was restored to its full glory in 2015. The moats, baileys, towers and walled alleyways were ingeniously designed to trick attackers – perhaps so intimidatingly that they were never tested. Explore the castle that was once home to over 10,000 samurai families and look out over the city from the seventh floor. Continue to Hiroshima and join your group for a dinner of okonomiyaki – Japan’s signature savoury pancake made of batter, cabbage, egg, customisable toppings like seafood, meat or vegetables and the traditional Hiroshima-style addition of yakisoba noodles.
Included Activities:
- Himeji - Himeji Castle
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll visit the Genbaku (A-Bomb) Dome and the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, both of which memorialise the fateful day in August 1945 when Hiroshima was chosen as target for the first ever wartime use of the atomic bomb. Today, the dome serves as a reminder of the devastation of nuclear warfare and a symbol for world peace. At the memorial park, you’ll see museums and monuments in memory of the victims and learn about the events leading up to the bombing. In the afternoon, you’ll hop on a short ferry ride to the enchanting island of Miyajima. The island is home to the floating Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its bright orange torii (gate) that rises majestically out of the sea. Miyajima’s an ideal place for walking – maybe check out Momiji Park (AKA Maple Valley), where you can take a cable car up to the top of Mt Misen. Return to Hiroshima for the night and maybe explore more of the local cuisine for dinner – ask your leader for suggestions!
Included Activities:
- Hiroshima - Peace Park & A - Bomb Dome
- Hiroshima - Peace Museum
- Hiroshima - Miyajima Island
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Board a bullet train to Nagoya, then change to an express train and continue north to the mountainous centre of Japan. You’ll spend a memorable night in a ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) near the village of Tsumago. Once a post town (where travellers could rest on their journeys) during the Shogunate period, Tsumago is the best preserved of the many posts along the historic Nakasendo Highway. The highway once connected Tokyo with Kyoto and is depicted in Hiroshige’s famous woodblock prints. Cars are prohibited in the main street and cables run underground to maintain the medieval atmosphere of the town. You’ll walk along a short section of the highway, from the post town of Magome to your accommodation at Tsumago. In tonight’s ryokan, rooms are equipped with thin futon mattresses that are spread on tatami mats. Tonight, you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner cooked in the ryokan.
Included Activities:
- Tsumago - Nakasendo Walk
Accommodation:
- Ryokan (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll have time to explore Tsumago and browse the local shops. You’ll then catch a train north to the picturesque castle town of Matsumoto. Matsumoto’s atmosphere is surprisingly cosmopolitan, while maintaining its historic charm and traditional streetscapes. This afternoon, you'll stroll through the former merchant district of Nakamachi, where you can find local crafts, treasures and great restaurants. You’ll also have the option of visiting the city’s most famous site, the Matsumoto Castle, formerly known as Fukashi Castle. Built in 1592, it’s the oldest original castle in the country. You’ll spend the evening here in Matsumoto. Perhaps try the local soba noodles (some of the best in the country) and be sure to sample some wasabi-based treats – the pristine water from the alps makes it grow particularly well here.
Included Activities:
- Matsumoto - walking tour
Optional Activities:
- Matsumoto - Matsumoto Castle (1300 JPY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, make your way by express train to Japan’s capital, Tokyo, to the hotel where you’ll be based for the next few days. Bursting with urban culture, there are many sides of Tokyo to explore, including fascinating museums, world-class shopping, bustling energy and futuristic architecture. In the neighbourhood backstreets, locals often reveal themselves to be some of the friendliest of any capital city in the world. There are many vestiges of the past, with historic temples and shrines to be found in some of the most unexpected places, as well as an abundance of parks and gardens that are particularly exquisite in spring when the cherry trees and azaleas are in bloom. When you arrive, you’ll have free time to explore – perhaps visit the expansive grounds and moat surrounding the Imperial Palace, then enjoy the myriad food options for dinner.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll undertake a varied, full-day tour of the city, beginning in the historic Asakusa area. This is one of the older and more traditional parts of Tokyo – it’s often called the temple district. Here, you’ll stop by Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple. At Nakamise shopping street, browse the many interesting stalls filled with tasty treats, crafts and souvenirs. You’ll also experience a different view of Tokyo as you relax on a short cruise down the Sumida River. You’ll pass the Skytree Tower, Asahi Beer Hall, Sumo Stadium and the former Tsukiji Fish Market complex. Disembark at the Hama Rikyu gardens and stroll along paths where the Shoguns once hunted ducks in the feudal era. Later, make your way to the luxurious shopping district of Ginza. Depending on the theatre schedule, you may have the chance to see a short performance of Kabuki. Or, visit the depachika (basement-level food hall) of a department store to see the huge range of produce on display.
Included Activities:
- Tokyo - Sensoji Temple
- Tokyo - Sumida River Cruise
- Tokyo - Hama Rikyu Garden
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned for today, your Japan adventure comes to an end. If you'd like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
Optional Activities:
- Tokyo - Shinjuku-gyoen (500 JPY)
- Tokyo - Meiji Jingu Shrine - Free
- Tokyo - Tokyo National Museum (1000 JPY)
- Tokyo - Imperial Palace - Free
- Tokyo - Samurai Museum (3300 JPY)
- Tokyo - Studio Ghibli Museum (advance bookings required - from) (1000 JPY)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Kimberley - Traveled, March 2024
This is a real taste of Japan! I loved it! You will go to places you wouldn't dream up if you were planning yourself! And all stress free as you just follow your tour leader! Mt.fuji isn't part of the trip you may get lucky to see if from the train to Tokyo or not but consider staying on past the tour to do it yourself if you want to see! Love intrepid tours and second time for me - will always go again as its amazing to meet people who are like minded! I recommend this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Brigitte - Traveled, March 2024
The tour was very well organized, with a lovely mixture of hotels, homestays and special locations. The small group of 7 was fun and Hiso our guide was a darling! Well organized, no rush and plenty of time for the amazing sites. Also some free time for personal interests, always with suggestions by Hiso what to do. Even bad weather did not impact the fanatcstic experience!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Paul - Traveled, March 2024
This is Japan 101. If you haven't been to Japan and thinking what tour to do then it's this one! After you do this tour then perhaps checkout the other tours for a better appreciation of Japan!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
James - Traveled, March 2024
Classic Japan is just that! It gives you an open-jaw of the main sights and sounds of Japan and gives you a taster of key cultural corner stones. If you haven't been to Japan and want to experience what Japan has to offer this is a useful tour for you. I'd suggest a few days before and after though if you can to see Osaka, Nara Park, and then a few of the key cities in Tokyo's vast metropolis!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Anna - Traveled, March 2024
This was a phenomenal trip with excellent variety in destinations! Our days in Koya-san and the Northern Alps were my favorites, and probably areas we wouldn't have explored had we not done this tour. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/23/2024
Pam - Traveled, November 2023
Our Classic Japan tour was amazing & beyond expectations. We were so fortunate to have a group & leader who socialised so well - lots of laughs, no whinging & punctual. Our leader went beyond expectations with advice & assistance post tour as well. The experience leaves everyone wanting to return to Japan.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Ruth - Traveled, November 2023
Amazing amazing trip. Great tour leader and fabulous group of people in the tour. I thought this would be a one of trip to Japan but now I know I’ll definitely be back. Amazing country!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/27/2023
Paul - Traveled, November 2023
Japan can be intriguing and also bewildering.Our Classic Tour gave us a really wide view of this country with something different every day.As our fellow travellers all agreed, we saw so many things that as individuals we would not see(or do)Wonderful tour leader made it very special
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Czesia - Traveled, October 2023
The classic Japan tour Offered by Intrepid was One of the best trips I have taken. It was well organized, provide a good overview of Japanese culture and life. Our guide, Susumu was excellent. He was supportive in very way, responded to all questions and never hesitated to look up any information we needed or were curious about. He also provided time for us to explore on our own while at the same time ensuring there was an easy place for us to find to reconnect as a group. The use of public transport was an enriching experience in of itself.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/11/2023
Rosalyn - Traveled, October 2023
Great trip! Our tour leader Toshimi was outstanding. The itinerary included a good mix of big cities and small mountain towns including a visit to Koya-san. Our transportation was almost entirely on Japan's excellent public transportation system including the Shinkansen. A wonderful introduction to Japan.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/06/2023
Andrea - Traveled, October 2023
Great trip for first time visitors to Japan. Having a Japanese speaking guide Toshimi, was the best. We spent more time doing rather than organising and he was such a fun person to be around. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/04/2023
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