Highlights of Japan
October 9th to October 20th, 2027
I recently returned from my second tour of Japan with Ciscoe Morris. Everything was fantastic with even some cooperation from the fall colors. I’ve been asked over the past couple years about a Japan tour with less of a focus on gardens and more attention toward history, architecture, culture, and cuisine.
I asked our outstanding Aussie guide Craig to develop an itinerary that checked those boxes, while determining a time that wouldn’t be too hot or crowded. The program below combines just the right mix for an introductory tour to Japan.
Craig will be on hand to guide us through the cities of Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Yokohama, Hakone and Hiroshima.
This eleven night tour includes accommodations in 3-4 star hotels/ryokan, breakfast each morning, airport transfers, all domestic transportation, Shinkansen (Bullet Train) experience, entry to all sites described in the day-to-day itinerary, seven dinners and some really fun events like Karaoke (Japanese Style) and Ikebana arranging. All this plus the services of our guide in Japan, Craig Campbell.
The cost for this tour is $6750 per person with a single supplement of $1,000. There is a discount for payment via check/Zelle/ACH of $220 per person. The initial deposit to confirm your reservation is $1500 per person. The balance of payment is due March 1st , 2027.
The Shinkansen & Shrines: A Japan Immersion Itinerary
This journey through Japan blends ancient history with modern energy, from the street food of Osaka to the tranquil temples of Kyoto and the resilient spirit of Hiroshima.
Day 1: Oct 9, 2027 | Osaka | Arrival & The Kitchen of Japan
Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami (ITM), where a private vehicle will transfer you to your hotel in central Osaka. The rest of your day is an open canvas. We suggest diving immediately into the local food scene.
- Experience: Wander the electrifying streets of Dotonbori. Beneath the famous neon Glico Man sign, the air hums with energy. Follow your nose to street vendors for your first taste of takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). This is “Japan’s kitchen”—eat your way through dinner!
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Osaka
- Meals: N/A
Day 2: Oct 10, 2027 | Osaka | Urban Wonders & Neon Nights
Approximate Departure Time: 10:00 AM
Today is a deep dive into Osaka’s culture and history.
- Morning Exploration: Discover aquatic life at the Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium, one of the world’s most impressive aquariums, before stepping back in time at the reconstructed Osaka Castle, learning about its pivotal role in unifying Japan.
- Evening Magic: Our welcome dinner isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary journey in the bustling Shinsaibashi district, a vibrant social hub where locals gather to unwind.
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Osaka
- Meals: Breakfast / Dinner
Day 3: Oct 11, 2027 | Osaka | Nara’s Sacred Deer & Ancient Giants
Approximate Departure Time: 09:30 AM
A day trip by scenic limited express train transports you to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital.
- Journey to the Past: Begin in the tranquil beauty of the Yoshikien and Isuien Japanese Gardens before making your way to Nara Park. Here, you’ll meet the famously friendly (and bowing!) wild deer.
- Encounter Greatness: Your final stop is the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple, home to the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), a bronze statue that has inspired awe for centuries.
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Osaka
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Oct 12, 2027 | Yokohama | Bullet Trains & Harbor Views
Approximate Departure Time: 09:30 AM
Travel in style aboard the legendary Shinkansen (bullet train) to Yokohama. If weather permits, keep a keen eye out for an iconic, fleeting glimpse of Mount Fuji from your window.
- Harbor City Charm: Your afternoon in Yokohama is spent exploring the modern port future of Minato Mirai. Weave through this architectural marvel before a relaxing stroll through Yamashita Park, offering refreshing sea breezes and views of the Yokohama Bay Bridge.
- Evening Suggestion: Explore the lively Motomachi shopping street or grab dinner in the nearby Chinatown district (meals not included).
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Yokohama
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Oct 13, 2027 | Hakone | Volcanic Vistas & Ryokan Retreat
Approximate Departure Time: 09:30 AM
A private vehicle takes you to the scenic mountains of Hakone. This day is about natural beauty and traditional Japanese hospitality.
- Nature’s Might: Ride a ropeway over Owakudani (“Valley of Hell”), where you can smell the sulfurous vents and perhaps try a black egg cooked in the natural spring water—said to add seven years to your life!
- Sacred Waters: Enjoy a relaxing cruise across the serene Lake Ashi, followed by a visit to the mystical, torii-gate-adorned Hakone Shrine, seemingly floating on the water’s edge.
- Cultural Immersion: Check into a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn). Tonight’s dinner is a multi-course Kaiseki feast, a pinnacle of Japanese dining, followed by a soak in an onsen (hot spring bath).
- Accommodation: Traditional Ryokan
- Meals: Breakfast / Dinner (Ryokan)
Day 6: Oct 14, 2027 | Kyoto | Shinkansen to the Imperial City
Approximate Departure Time: 09:00 AM
Journey by shinkansen and limited express train to Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan.
- Bamboo & Zen: Upon arrival, you’ll head straight to the enchanting Arashiyama district. Walk the surreal, towering Bamboo Grove pathways and find peace within the exquisite landscape gardens of Tenryuji Temple.
- Evening Suggestion: Dine in the charming Gion district, keeping an eye out for Geishas on their way to appointments.
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Kyoto
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Oct 15, 2027 | Kyoto | The Art of Zen & Samurai History
Approximate Departure Time: 09:00 AM
A full day dedicated to the arts and history of the ancient capital.
- Creative Immersion: Unleash your inner artist with a private Ikebana Experience, learning the meditative Japanese art of floral arrangement from a master.
- Shogun’s Power: Step into the opulent world of the Shoguns at Nijo Castle, famous for its “nightingale floors” designed to sing and squeak to warn against intruders.
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Kyoto
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Oct 16, 2027 | Kyoto | Vermillion Gates & Geisha Encounters
Approximate Departure Time: 10:00 AM
Explore Kyoto’s most iconic and atmospheric locations.
- Morning Glory: Walk beneath thousands of vibrant, red torii gates that wind up the mountain at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a truly cinematic experience.
- Afternoon Culture: Stroll through the preserved wooden streets of Gion (Geisha District) and the narrow, lantern-lit alleyway of Pontocho. These areas come alive with atmosphere as dusk falls.
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Kyoto
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Oct 17, 2027 | Hiroshima | Resilience & Reflection
Approximate Departure Time: 09:30 AM
A shinkansen ride brings you to Hiroshima, a city with a powerful story of resilience and peace.
- A Somber History: Engage with history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the Peace Memorial Park, the A-bomb Dome, and the Hypocenter. These are moving, essential visits that honor the past and inspire hope for the future.
- Evening Celebration of Life: After reflection, we gather for a lively group dinner featuring Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, followed by a private Karaoke session—a must-do Japanese experience!
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Hiroshima
- Meals: Breakfast / Dinner (Karaoke)
Day 10: Oct 18, 2027 | Hiroshima | Miyajima Island’s Floating Shrine
Approximate Departure Time: 09:30 AM
A short train and ferry ride takes you to the sacred “Shrine Island,” Miyajima.
- Iconic Views: See the famous floating Itsukushima Shrine and its grand torii gate (tide permitting).
- Mountain Ascent: Take the ropeway up Mt. Misen for panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, followed by a peaceful descent through the atmospheric Daisho-in Temple complex.
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Hiroshima
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Oct 19, 2027 | Kobe | Steak, Towers, & Farewell
Approximate Departure Time: 10:00 AM
Travel by shinkansen to Kobe, famous for its port and world-class beef.
- Harbor Exploration: Explore the bustling atmosphere and vibrant colors of Kobe Chinatown, then head to the waterfront for modern architecture and city views from Meriken Park and the iconic red Kobe Port Tower.
- Farewell Feast: Our final group dinner is an unforgettable experience: authentic, melt-in-your-mouth Kobe Beef, a perfect ending to your Japanese adventure.
- Accommodation: 3 or 4-star hotel in central Kobe
- Meals: Breakfast / Dinner
Day 12: Oct 20, 2027 | Departure | Sayōnara Japan
Approximate Departure Time: 08:30 AM
Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast before some last-minute souvenir shopping or sightseeing in Kobe. A private transfer will take you back to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami (ITM) for your return flight home
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A
Getting There: Flights to Osaka (KIX)
There are many airlines that will get you to Japan. I’m using Seattle as a departure city here since most participants will come from there.
You’ll make connections via Taipei, Seoul, Manila, San Francisco, Tokyo, and a few other hubs. Be sure to allow enough connection time. If you connect via Tokyo, be sure your carrier does not have you changing airports on a connection.
You’ll lose either one or two calendar days on your flight over, depending on which side of midnight your flight departs. Since the tour begins on October 9th, you’ll either depart just before midnight on the 7th or just after midnight on the 8th. Best to plan for arrival for late AM or early PM so you don’t arrive to late to adjust. If you choose to arrive early, the hotel will be available for an early arrival for about $280. Actual pricing will be available soon.
On the return departure, shoot for a departure in late afternoon or early evening. Expect coach fares to run about $1100. Premium economy under $3000. Business class between $5500-$6000.
Weather in Osaka for October
Expect ideal conditions with highs around 75, lows around 60. The rainfall average for Osaka in October is a little over 5 inches, so plan for that. It’s a little cooler and dryer in Hiroshima for the same period.
Documentation
You’ll need a passport with at least 30 days validity from your departure from the country. Considering that many of the countries you’ll connect through will require 3-6 months of validity, make sure your documents are up to date. There is an entry form requirement in place that is done online. Specific instructions to complete this form will be provided shortly before the tour.
Pricing
This eleven night tour includes accommodations in 3-4 star hotels/ryokan, breakfast each morning, airport transfers, all domestic transportation, Shinkansen (Bullet Train) experience, entry to all sites described in the day-to-day itinerary, seven dinners and some really fun events like Karaoke (Japanese Style) and Ikebana arranging. All this plus the services of our guide in Japan, Craig Campbell.
The cost for this tour is $6750 per person with a single supplement of $1,000. There is a discount for payment via check/Zelle of $220 per person. Guests opting to pay by Visa/Mastercard, will receive a link to make secure payment online. The initial deposit to confirm your reservation is $1500 per person. The balance of payment is due March 1st , 2027.
What if I need to cancel my flight, tour or cruise?
Because payments are non-refundable, it’s strongly suggested that you consider travel insurance for this investment. The exception to this is in the event that a replacement is found to take the place of a cancelling party.
Both of the companies listed below have a policy rate calculator online. Enter the cost of your tour and personal data to receive a no-obligation cost estimate. Two recommended companies are:
Generali Travel Insurance Travelex Insurance
Cancellation insurance will range in price based on the cost of your travel and the age of the applicant. Get a quote at the websites above before making a purchase. If you have a pre-existing condition to cover, you usually must purchase your policy within 2 weeks of the initial deposit.
Make Your Reservation!
If you have any questions about this tour, please contact Brad Cilley at brad@nwtravel.com or by phone at 425 375 2676.