13 Days/12 Nights Tokyo to Hiroshima: From Tokyo’s neon streets to Kyoto’s hidden temples, Japan Adventure is about hitting the icons while leaving space for your own discoveries. Dive into modern Japan, ancient traditions, unreal food, and those unplanned moments that end up being the best part of the trip. You’ll explore buzzing cities, escape to Mt Fuji, wander quiet temple streets, eat your way through Osaka, and finish with powerful history in Hiroshima. With more free time than a classic group tour and all the essentials covered, this trip is perfect if you want adventure without the stress — or the big price tag.
Your Japan adventure kicks off in Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district. Drop your bags at tonight’s hostel and meet your guide and fellow travellers over a welcome dinner. As night falls and the crowds fade, you’ll experience one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets: Senso-ji Temple after dark. With glowing lanterns and a calmer atmosphere, it’s the perfect introduction to Japan.
Start the day with a Japan orientation, learning key customs and phrases. Head to Harajuku, the heart of Japanese youth culture, before wandering through Yoyogi Park and visiting the peaceful Meiji Shrine. In the afternoon, dive into Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town, filled with arcades, anime stores and neon lights.
This morning is all about flexibility, with time to explore Tokyo your way. Your guide is on hand to help with ideas, bookings or directions. Later, head to Shinjuku to soak up city views, wander Omoide Yokocho, grab dinner, and finish the night at the world-famous Shibuya Crossing as Tokyo comes alive after dark.
Travel out of Tokyo aboard the iconic Romance Car to the mountain town of Hakone. After checking in, head deeper into the region to explore and, weather permitting, take in views of Mt Fuji. Known for its nature and comfort food, Hakone is a refreshing change of pace before a relaxed evening and family-style dinner back at the guesthouse.
Say goodbye to Hakone and jump on the bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. After checking in, explore the surrounding neighbourhood before heading out on a guided evening walk through Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. Finish the night with dinner at a local yakitori favourite.
Start early to beat the crowds at Fushimi Inari Shrine, walking beneath thousands of red torii gates winding through the forested hills. Next, visit the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched above the city with panoramic views. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring Kyoto at your own pace.
Travel to the scenic town of Arashiyama, surrounded by mountains and rivers. Walk through the iconic bamboo forest, then climb up Monkey Mountain for views across Kyoto and close encounters with wild macaques. The afternoon is free to explore the town, riverside paths or nearby attractions.
Begin the day at the Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto’s most recognisable landmarks, set against a tranquil garden and reflective pond. Continue to Daitoku-ji for a peaceful Zen garden visit before heading to Osaka. That evening, dive straight into the city’s legendary food scene on a guided street food walk through Dotonbori, followed by karaoke and drinks.
Enjoy a slower morning before regrouping to explore Osaka Castle and its surrounding gardens. As the sun sets, head into Shinsekai, a lively district packed with retro vibes, street food and bright lights. It’s a great chance to experience a different side of Osaka nightlife.
Travel just outside the city to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. Wander through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely, and explore historic temples set among peaceful grounds. Return to Osaka in the afternoon with time to explore more neighbourhoods or relax before the evening.
Travel to Hiroshima and check into your accommodation before heading to the Peace Memorial Park. A local guide will walk you through the city’s powerful history, including the Atomic Dome, Peace Bell and eternal flame. You’ll also have time to visit the museum and reflect.
Take the metro and ferry to Miyajima Island, famous for its forests, temples and the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Explore the island, visit the Hall of 1,000 Mats, and soak up the slower pace before returning to Hiroshima. That evening, enjoy a final night out together to wrap up the adventure.
Your Japan Adventure comes to an end today. Say goodbye to your group, swap details, and head off with memories, stories and friendships that’ll last long after the trip ends.
The Japan Adventure 13-Day Group Tour includes 12 nights total.
To make your booking, choose your departure date and any optional extras you'd like. Not sure about extras, or need extra accommodation before or after your tour? No worries, just let us know later by email.
How the price works: the tour price is shown in the booking panel, then a 1.75% online booking fee is added at checkout — that's the price you see on the tour page. You'll see both lines before you pay. No card surcharges, and nothing is added after that.
Once you've booked, we'll send your booking confirmation along with important information about your tour.
Travelling solo? Great! Most of the people you meet on tour will also be on a solo adventure! If you are curious as to who you could be travelling with, or want to make some friends before arriving, join our Travel Community and reach out to your potential new travel mates!
Booking with ULTIMATE is easy! We take payments securely via Mastercard or Visa Credit and Debit Card and we will charge you in Australian Currency (AUD). Your deposit is flexible and if you can no longer travel, you can save your deposit for a later trip or destination if you notify us 30 days before your scheduled tour date.
Making your booking is easy. Choose a date below, and if you have any questions about extras, deposits, or meeting other travellers, just get in touch — we're happy to help.
Where does the tour start and finish?
Starts in Tokyo on Day 1; meeting point details provided once booked. Finishes on Day 13 in Hiroshima. Book flights departing no earlier than 1:30 PM from Hiroshima Airport, or 6:00 PM from Tokyo Airport if returning via train. Return/onward transport is not included, but the guide can assist.
Who will I be travelling with?
Like-minded travellers from all over the world; up to 24 others aged 18-39.
Do I need vaccinations?
Recommended to discuss with your local doctor or GP for the best, up-to-date advice.
Can I book extra nights?
Yes, add additional nights before or after your trip at checkout, or get in touch to chat with the crew.
Can you help me organise flights & insurance?
They recommend Skyscanner.com for flight comparisons and offer a recommended travel insurance provider.
Do I need a visa?
Check your government’s travel website for up-to-date info. Most countries get a 90-day visa on arrival, but proof of onward travel from Japan is required to board your inbound flight.
How long are the travel times?
The longest single travel time is approximately 4 hours. One day has two train journeys of 2-3 hours each, with a 30-minute change in between.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Strict dietary requirements can be challenging due to Japanese cuisine — many dishes use non-vegetarian/vegan broths and include meat, fish or egg. Recommend the Happy Cow app and speaking with your tour leader.
How is Wi-Fi and mobile data during the trip?
Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations and many public spaces. Recommend a local SIM/eSIM or renting a pocket Wi-Fi device.
Do I need to purchase a Japan Rail Pass?
No, not included and not required. All transport is organised for you, primarily using local transport for authenticity.
Is there much free time on the tour?
Pacing varies by location, with specifics on free time in Tokyo, Takayama, Hakone, Osaka and Kyoto.
What accommodation do we stay at?
The Essentials tour stays in funky hostels around Japan, with mixed-gender dorm rooms.
Can I book a single room on this tour?
Single supplements aren’t available — single rooms in Japan are extremely limited and most accommodation is twin-share. They’ll do their best to pair solo travellers together.
Do we have to carry our luggage around each day?
You’ll transport luggage between accommodations, but it can be stored at the hostel during the day. No luggage delivery service is offered, though the tour leader can advise on arranging this independently.
What fitness level is required?
A reasonable level of fitness is required due to walking involved — some days include 8-10km of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
How much free time is there in Tokyo for shopping or optional activities?
Some free time is built in, but not enough for longer optional activities unless you skip certain inclusions. For activities like Mario Kart, arrive in Tokyo before Day 1 for extra time.
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