| EUR | GBP | AUD |
|---|---|---|
| €2149 | £1899 | $3799 |
Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your tour date with a deposit today! Booking and Transaction Fees apply. Find out more here.
10 Day /9 NIGHT – Group Tour |
ULTIMATE JAPAN ADVENTURE |
TOKYO – MT FUJI – KYOTO – OSAKA |
| EUR | GBP | AUD |
|---|---|---|
| €2149 | £1899 | $3799 |
Tour charges are in AUD. Secure your tour date with a deposit today! Booking and Transaction Fees apply. Find out more here.
Get ready for 10 unforgettable days exploring Japan, from Tokyo’s neon-lit streets to Kyoto’s timeless temples. This small group adventure dives deep into a country where ancient traditions and futuristic cities exist side by side. From samurai culture and sacred shrines to anime districts, bullet trains, and world-class food, Japan delivers at every turn. Whether you’re travelling solo, obsessed with Japanese culture, or simply chasing your next big adventure, this trip ticks every box. You’ll master the art of sushi making, train in a traditional Kendo dojo with a samurai descendant, wander Kyoto’s historic Gion District, and even spend a night staying in a working Buddhist temple. Voted the world’s #1 small group tour, this is Japan done properly.
Get ready for 10 unforgettable days exploring Japan, from Tokyo’s neon-lit streets to Kyoto’s timeless temples. This small group adventure dives deep into a country where ancient traditions and futuristic cities exist side by side. From samurai culture and sacred shrines to anime districts, bullet trains, and world-class food, Japan delivers at every turn. Whether you’re travelling solo, obsessed with Japanese culture, or simply chasing your next big adventure, this trip ticks every box. You’ll master the art of sushi making, train in a traditional Kendo dojo with a samurai descendant, wander Kyoto’s historic Gion District, and even spend a night staying in a working Buddhist temple. Voted the world’s #1 small group tour, this is Japan done properly.
| 9 Nights Accommodation 9 nights of accommodation across Japan including hostels, hotels, and a unique overnight temple stay. All Local Transport (Day 2–9) All transport during the tour using Japan’s efficient train and local transport networks. Excludes airport transfers, optional activities, and free time. Welcome Dinner Kick off your adventure with a group welcome dinner on your first night. Japan Orientation Learn how to navigate Japan, local etiquette, transport systems, and essential travel tips.
| Local Group Leader Your trip is led by an experienced group leader with local knowledge throughout Japan. Explore Tokyo’s Famous Districts Discover Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Akihabara – from neon lights to pop culture hubs. Shibuya Crossing Walk through the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing in the heart of Tokyo. Senso-ji Temple at Night Visit Tokyo’s oldest temple after dark for a unique and atmospheric experience. Sushi Making Class Learn the art of sushi making with expert instruction.
| Mt Fuji & Hakone Exploration Take in views of Mt Fuji and explore the scenic Hakone region. Kyoto Cultural Highlights Includes Gion walking tour, Fushimi-Inari red torii gates, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the Golden Pavilion. Traditional Experiences Enjoy a sake tasting, tea ceremony, Kendo class, and an unforgettable overnight temple stay. Arashiyama & Monkey Mountain Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and climb Iwatayama Monkey Park. Osaka Food Tour & Final Night Karaoke Finish the trip with a street food tour in Osaka and karaoke with the group. |
We recommend a travel budget of approx ¥5,000–¥7,000 per day for meals and personal expenses when not included in the itinerary.
ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE
The 10-Day Japan Adventure is the ultimate mix of neon city energy and deep cultural moments - taking you from Tokyo’s electric streets to Kyoto’s timeless temples, with iconic stops and hands-on experiences in between. You’ll ride Japan’s famously smooth transport network, dive into world-class food, and explore places where the past and future sit side by side. Expect a trip packed with proper “Japan moments” - sushi-making, anime and nightlife districts, sacred shrines, mountain towns, and a night inside a working Buddhist temple that most travellers only ever see from the outside.
Note: This is a partner tour. It’s not operated directly by ULTIMATE Travel, but delivered by our trusted local partners in Japan who specialise in running outstanding small-group adventures. They handle the on-ground guiding, transport and logistics, so you can focus on the fun stuff. You’ll travel with a mix of ULTIMATE travellers and other adventure travellers from around the world, which means an instant social vibe from day one. Once you book, our local partners will contact you directly with everything you need before you go - including arrival details, trip notes and final pre-departure info.
ABOUT YOU
This trip is designed for travellers aged 18–35 who want Japan done properly - not rushed, not tourist-trap heavy, and definitely not boring. You’ll love this tour if you’re curious, up for trying new things, and keen for a mix of culture, food, big-city nights and bucket-list experiences. Whether you’re travelling solo, obsessed with Japan (anime, temples, street fashion, food - all of it), or just chasing your next big adventure with a fun crew, you’ll fit right in.
TRAVEL STYLE
This is a social, small-group Japan tour with a well-structured itinerary that gives you a lot of variety without feeling hectic. Your guide keeps everything running smoothly, with a blend of included experiences and free time to explore, shop, eat and wander at your own pace. Accommodation is a mix of hotels, hostels and truly unique Japanese stays - designed to match the contrast Japan is famous for.
Accommodation style by stop:
GROUP VIBE
Groups are made up of travellers from all over the world, and lots of people join solo - so it’s easy to make mates fast. The vibe is friendly, social and flexible. Some nights are chilled (good food, wander, early sleep), and other nights turn into big shared dinners and city nights out. You’ll bond quickly through the shared experiences - bullet train rides, food missions, cultural workshops, temple life, and the constant “is this real?” moments that Japan is famous for.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP DIFFERENT
This isn’t a surface-level Japan highlights loop. You’re not just ticking off famous spots - you’re getting stuck into experiences that make the country feel real. You’ll learn to roll sushi, train in a traditional Kendo dojo with a samurai descendant, wander Kyoto’s historic Gion District (yes, you might spot a Geisha), and spend a night in a working temple in the UNESCO-listed town of Takayama - sleeping the traditional way on tatami mats with the calm of a private temple garden outside. With our trusted local partner team running the tour on the ground, you get local insight, smooth logistics, and a crew you’ll actually want to travel with - which is exactly what makes this Japan adventure hit different from start to finish.
We recommend checking your government’s official travel website for the most up-to-date visa information. Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry to Japan for up to 90 days, however entry requirements can vary depending on your passport.
You can check your specific Japan visa requirements by entering your nationality online. For further details, we also recommend reviewing the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Please note that you must be able to show proof of onward travel out of Japan in order to board your inbound flight and to enter the country. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival.
Please be aware that this tour does not arrange or apply for visas on behalf of guests. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they meet all visa and entry requirements prior to departure.
To book, select your chosen departure date and select if you require additional nights. Once you are booked, we will send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.
We recommend booking your arrival flight to Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport. Please note that an airport transfer is not included.
Tour Begins in Tokyo and ends in Kyoto
Secure your tour date with a $200 deposit.
Final payment is due 45 days prior to travel.
ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE
The 10-Day Japan Adventure is the ultimate mix of neon city energy and deep cultural moments - taking you from Tokyo’s electric streets to Kyoto’s timeless temples, with iconic stops and hands-on experiences in between. You’ll ride Japan’s famously smooth transport network, dive into world-class food, and explore places where the past and future sit side by side. Expect a trip packed with proper “Japan moments” - sushi-making, anime and nightlife districts, sacred shrines, mountain towns, and a night inside a working Buddhist temple that most travellers only ever see from the outside.
Note: This is a partner tour. It’s not operated directly by ULTIMATE Travel, but delivered by our trusted local partners in Japan who specialise in running outstanding small-group adventures. They handle the on-ground guiding, transport and logistics, so you can focus on the fun stuff. You’ll travel with a mix of ULTIMATE travellers and other adventure travellers from around the world, which means an instant social vibe from day one. Once you book, our local partners will contact you directly with everything you need before you go - including arrival details, trip notes and final pre-departure info.
ABOUT YOU
This trip is designed for travellers aged 18–35 who want Japan done properly - not rushed, not tourist-trap heavy, and definitely not boring. You’ll love this tour if you’re curious, up for trying new things, and keen for a mix of culture, food, big-city nights and bucket-list experiences. Whether you’re travelling solo, obsessed with Japan (anime, temples, street fashion, food - all of it), or just chasing your next big adventure with a fun crew, you’ll fit right in.
TRAVEL STYLE
This is a social, small-group Japan tour with a well-structured itinerary that gives you a lot of variety without feeling hectic. Your guide keeps everything running smoothly, with a blend of included experiences and free time to explore, shop, eat and wander at your own pace. Accommodation is a mix of hotels, hostels and truly unique Japanese stays - designed to match the contrast Japan is famous for.
Accommodation style by stop:
GROUP VIBE
Groups are made up of travellers from all over the world, and lots of people join solo - so it’s easy to make mates fast. The vibe is friendly, social and flexible. Some nights are chilled (good food, wander, early sleep), and other nights turn into big shared dinners and city nights out. You’ll bond quickly through the shared experiences - bullet train rides, food missions, cultural workshops, temple life, and the constant “is this real?” moments that Japan is famous for.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP DIFFERENT
This isn’t a surface-level Japan highlights loop. You’re not just ticking off famous spots - you’re getting stuck into experiences that make the country feel real. You’ll learn to roll sushi, train in a traditional Kendo dojo with a samurai descendant, wander Kyoto’s historic Gion District (yes, you might spot a Geisha), and spend a night in a working temple in the UNESCO-listed town of Takayama - sleeping the traditional way on tatami mats with the calm of a private temple garden outside. With our trusted local partner team running the tour on the ground, you get local insight, smooth logistics, and a crew you’ll actually want to travel with - which is exactly what makes this Japan adventure hit different from start to finish.
We recommend checking your government’s official travel website for the most up-to-date visa information. Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry to Japan for up to 90 days, however entry requirements can vary depending on your passport.
You can check your specific Japan visa requirements by entering your nationality online. For further details, we also recommend reviewing the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Please note that you must be able to show proof of onward travel out of Japan in order to board your inbound flight and to enter the country. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival.
Please be aware that this tour does not arrange or apply for visas on behalf of guests. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they meet all visa and entry requirements prior to departure.
To book, select your chosen departure date and select if you require additional nights. Once you are booked, we will send you a booking confirmation as well as important information about your tour.
We recommend booking your arrival flight to Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airport. Please note that an airport transfer is not included.
Tour Begins in Tokyo and ends in Kyoto
Secure your tour date with a $200 deposit.
Final payment is due 45 days prior to travel.
The Japan Adventure tour starts in Tokyo and ends in Osaka.
Whether you’re travelling solo or with a mate, you’ll meet like-minded travellers from all over the world. Group sizes vary with each tour however we like to keep things fun yet personal so you’ll be travelling with up to 30 others.
If you need additional nights before or after your trip, just add them to your booking when you checkout.
Not sure if you need extra nights? Get in touch to chat with a member of the crew before or after you book.
Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer a single-room supplement for our Japan tour. Most accommodations consist of twin rooms, so securing a solo room would require covering the cost of two people. That said, we will do our best to pair you with another solo traveler.
Days 1, 2, 3 you will be in twins in a hotel, On day 4 you will be staying in multi-share accommodation in the mountain town of Hakone, day 5 in a multi-share accommodation in a temple. In Kyoto on days 6,7,8 you will have your own pod in a capsule Ryokan and in Osaka you will either be in twins or triples.
You can fly into Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda International Airport (HND). It doesn’t matter which one you fly into. We don’t offer airport pick ups on this tour but we include incredible detailed information on how to get to the hostel from both airports in your welcome pack.
The first night is at Sakura Hotel Nippori in Tokyo. You will be notified in the unlikely case that there are changes.
For those wishing to return to Tokyo after the tour finishes in Osaka there is the option to include the train cost in the ticket price. Those guests who wish to book their return train journey whilst on the tour will need to arrange this while in Osaka and is dependent on availability.
For departures from Osaka, we recommend booking flights no earlier than 11.00 am. Travel time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to Kansai International Airport (KIX) and 1 hour to Osaka International Airport (Itami/ITM).
For any departures from Tokyo, we recommend booking flights no earlier than 4.00 pm.
Booking is easy! Select your chosen departure date, enter your details and we’ll send you a booking confirmation as well as useful information about your tour. Secure your spot with a $200 deposit.
The Japan Adventure tour starts in Tokyo and ends in Osaka.
You can fly into Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda International Airport (HND) - either is fine. Airport transfers are not included, but your welcome pack contains detailed instructions on getting to the accommodation from both airports.
The first night is spent at Sakura Hotel Nippori in Tokyo. You’ll be notified in advance if this changes.
We would recommend discussing this with your local doctor or GP as they will give the best, and most up-to-date advice on this matter.
If you need additional nights before or after your trip, just add them to your booking when you checkout.
Not sure if you need extra nights? Get in touch to chat with a member of the crew before or after you book.
Sure! We recommend searching and comparing flight prices using Skyscanner.com – get a flight quote.
Find the best insurance policy for your Ultimate adventure with the help of our recommended travel insurance provider.
We advise checking with your governments travel website for up to date information. However, most countries are issued a 90 day visa on arrival. Although, you do need to show proof of onward travel from Japan to be allowed to board your inbound flight.
The longest single travel time on the tour is approximately 4 hours. On one day, there will be two train journeys of around 2–3 hours each, with a 30-minute change in between.
If you’re departing from Osaka, we recommend booking flights no earlier than 11:00am. Travel time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to Kansai International Airport (KIX) and around 1 hour to Osaka International Airport (Itami / ITM). If you’re flying out of Tokyo, we recommend booking flights no earlier than 4:00pm.
DEPARTING FROM OSAKA (KANSAI AIRPORT):
We recommend flights after 9:00am, as the earliest public transport reaches the airport around 6:00am. Taxis are available but very expensive (from approximately ¥14,000+).
DEPARTING FROM OSAKA (ITAMI AIRPORT):
We recommend booking flights after 9:00am. Public transport starts around 6:15am, and taxis are also costly.
DEPARTING FROM TOKYO:
We do not recommend international flights earlier than 5:00pm. The included return train journey to Tokyo takes around 4 hours, followed by approximately 1 hour to the airport, plus the recommended 3-hour international check-in time.
FLYING OUT OF TOKYO AT 8:00AM ON DAY 10:
While this is possible, it isn’t ideal. Travel from Osaka to Tokyo can take up to 4 hours, with the airport a further 60 minutes from central Tokyo. If your flight departs before 2:00pm on Day 10, we recommend leaving the tour on Day 9 and arranging your own accommodation in Tokyo for the night.
For guests wishing to return to Tokyo after the tour finishes in Osaka, the return train can be added to your booking.
If you plan to organise the return train while on tour, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible, as trains can sell out.
Due to the nature of Japanese cuisine, strict dietary requirements can be challenging to accommodate in some areas. Many dishes use broths or stocks that are not vegetarian or vegan friendly, and meals often include meat, fish, or egg.
We recommend downloading the Happy Cow app and speaking with your tour leader for advice throughout the trip. You’re welcome to bring snacks or supplements if needed, but please note Japanese customs are very strict with food and medication, so double-check anything you plan to bring.
Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations and many public spaces. We recommend purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM, or renting a pocket Wi-Fi device for reliable access throughout the trip.
No. A Japan Rail Pass is not included and not required. All transport during the tour is organised for you, and we primarily use local transport to provide a more authentic experience.
Tokyo is fairly fast-paced, but you’re welcome to spend longer in an area and return to the accommodation independently if you’d like to explore more.
There is some free time in Takayama, where you can enjoy optional activities such as archery or visiting an onsen. Free time is more limited in Hakone and Osaka, while Kyoto includes approximately half a day to explore at your own pace.
You’ll spend one night in a beautiful temple in Takayama, offering a truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Accommodation is multi-share (up to 9 guests per room) on traditional tatami mats, overlooking a Japanese garden.
A mattress, sheet, and pillow are provided, and the temple has excellent shared facilities. It is also centrally located within Takayama.
Unfortunately, single supplements are not available on this tour. Single rooms in Japan are extremely limited, and most accommodation is twin-share, meaning the cost would be equivalent to paying for two people.
That said, we will always do our best to pair solo travellers together.
Arriving at 9:00pm is no problem, however you will miss the welcome dinner and the Senso-ji Temple night visit. Please note that public transport generally stops around midnight, so allow for potential delays. If needed, your welcome email includes information on travelling into the city after midnight.
You’ll need to transport your luggage between accommodations, but during the day it can be safely stored at the hostel. We don’t offer a luggage delivery service, however your tour leader can advise you on arranging this independently if you’d like.
A reasonable level of fitness is required due to the amount of walking involved. Some days include 8–10km of walking, so comfortable, supportive footwear is essential.
There is some free time built into the Tokyo itinerary, but not enough for longer optional activities unless you choose to skip certain inclusions. If you’re keen to do activities such as Mario Kart, we recommend arriving in Tokyo before Day 1 to give yourself extra time.
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