12-Day Deluxe Japan Discovery Tour
12 DaysABOUT THE TOUR
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey through Japan’s most iconic regions with BetterTrip. From the buzzing metropolis of Tokyo to the serene beauty of Mt. Fuji, and the timeless charm of Kyoto, this tour offers a perfect blend of modern wonders, cultural heritage, and natural splendor. Discover samurai castles, ancient temples, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Wander through the deer-filled parks of Nara, experience the poignant history of Hiroshima, and soak in the old-world elegance of Kurashiki. With visits to Osaka, Kobe, and Himeji, plus scenic highlights like Miyajima Island and Korakuen Garden, this carefully curated journey is ideal for travelers seeking an immersive and well-paced exploration of Japan.
What’s Included |
What’s Not Included |
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Itinerary
Arrive in Tokyo and be warmly greeted by a tour representative who will assist you with transfers from Narita or Haneda airport to your hotel. Pick-up services are available throughout the day; please provide your flight number prior to arrival for smooth arrangements. Kindly note there may be brief waiting periods if other guests arrive simultaneously.
Included Meals: No meals
Accommodation: Tokyo Dome Hotel or similar
Note:
Hotel Check-in:
Standard check-in time in Japan is after 3:00 PM., and a valid passport is required at check-in.
Begin your day in the vibrant city of Tokyo with a visit to the Imperial Palace, home to Japan’s royal family. Wander through its serene Outer Gardens and capture a perfect photo of the iconic Nijubashi Bridge. Next, dive into history and tradition at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, and stroll along Nakamise-Dori, a lively street filled with charming shops and snacks. Catch a view of the soaring Tokyo Skytree from afar before journeying to the peaceful Mt. Fuji region. In the evening, soak in a rejuvenating hot spring and savor a delicious Japanese-style dinner at your tranquil resort.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Fuji Kawaguchiko Resort Hotel or similar
Seasonal Attractions:
Chidorigafuchi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden:
(Spring: 18 March - 22 April):
Experience Tokyo's iconic spring season with a visit to Chidorigafuchi Park, renowned for its breathtaking display of cherry blossoms. Here, stroll along picturesque paths by the water, beneath a dreamy canopy of delicate pink petals that captivate locals and travelers alike. Next, explore the tranquil oasis of Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, offering lush greenery, expansive lawns, peaceful ponds, and vibrant floral gardens that blossom vividly, creating an idyllic springtime escape.
Yoyogi Park, Rikugien Garden:
(Fall: 21 Oct - 18 Nov):
Immerse yourself in Tokyo’s stunning autumn foliage starting at Yoyogi Park, a beloved urban retreat where trees turn brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red, providing perfect scenes for leisurely walks and capturing memorable photographs. Afterwards, experience the poetic beauty of Rikugien Garden, celebrated for its carefully crafted landscape gardens illuminated by vibrant autumn leaves. As the sun sets, witness a mesmerizing evening illumination, highlighting the maple trees in glowing hues and creating an enchanting seasonal atmosphere.
Start your morning with breathtaking views at Mount Fuji’s 5th Station (weather permitting). If the skies aren’t clear, explore the Mount Fuji World Heritage Center for an immersive cultural experience. Then, journey to Oshino Hakkai, a serene village of crystal-clear ponds fed by Mt. Fuji’s snowmelt. Take a peaceful stroll through Bussharito Heiwa Park before heading to lively Nagoya, where you can shop and explore the vibrant Osu Shopping District.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Fuji Kawaguchiko Resort Hotel or similar
After breakfast, visit the historic Nagoya Castle, once the powerful center of a feudal castle town. Then journey to Kyoto, where timeless tradition and cultural elegance await. Discover the iconic Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stroll the charming stone paths of Ninenzaka and Sannezaka. In the afternoon, explore Gion — Kyoto’s famed geisha district — filled with teahouses, boutiques, and centuries-old charm. Visit the lively Yasaka Shrine, then take a walk through Hanamachi Street, a picturesque reminder of Japan’s stylish Edo-period past. Dinner is at your own leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Shijo Karasuma or similar
Following breakfast, visit Fushimi-Inari Taisha, one of Japan’s most iconic Shinto shrines, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind through the forested hills of southern Kyoto. Then, head to Nara Deer Park, where you can interact with friendly, free-roaming deer in a peaceful setting. Nearby, explore the beautiful Kasuga Taisha Shrine, surrounded by ancient stone lanterns. In the afternoon, transfer to Osaka and dive into the energetic shopping district of Shinsaibashi. Enjoy free time at nearby Dotonbori, known for its bright lights, local street food, and lively entertainment.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sheraton Miyako or similar
Leave the bustle of Osaka behind as you head to Okayama to explore the stunning Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, celebrated for its harmonious design and seasonal beauty. Then, step back in time in Kurashiki, beginning with the historic Ohashi House, a well-preserved samurai-era merchant home. Continue your journey through the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, where charming white-walled buildings, stone bridges, and willow-lined canals evoke the elegance of Japan’s Edo period.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Royal Park Hotel Kurashiki or similar
Depart Kurashiki and head to Hiroshima, a city that tells a profound story of resilience and hope. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, both powerful reminders of history and symbols of peace. In the afternoon, cruise across the bay to the enchanting Miyajima Island, where the famed Itsukushima Shrine appears to float on the sea — a serene and spiritual experience framed by lush forest and ocean views.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or similar
Begin your day with a journey to Himeji, home to the majestic Himeji Castle — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Japan’s most celebrated fortress. Nicknamed the White Heron Castle for its graceful architecture and brilliant white façade, it’s a true national treasure. Adjacent to the castle, discover the tranquil beauty of Kokoen Garden, where nine Edo-style gardens showcase traditional Japanese landscaping at its finest..
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Monterey Himeji or similar
Start your morning with a scenic transfer to the cosmopolitan city of Kobe, known for its vibrant port and rich international history dating back to the Meiji era. Discover the cultural fusion in Kobe Chinatown (Nankinmachi), where lively streets are lined with authentic eateries and souvenir shops. Later, head to Osaka, where the rest of the day is yours to explore, dine, and shop at your leisure. Lunch and dinner at your own arrangement.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Bellevue Garden Hotel Kansai or similar
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Osaka! Your hotel is located in Shinsaibashi, Osaka’s trendiest shopping and dining district. Just a 1-minute walk to Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, explore over 600 meters of fashion boutiques, Japanese street food, and entertainment.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Osaka City Centre – Midosuji
Another free day to soak in Osaka’s energy. Whether you explore Osaka Castle, dive into street food at Kuromon Market, or relax at Spa World, the day is yours to enjoy.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Osaka City Centre – Midosuji
After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Some airlines arrive at Terminal 3, Narita. Passengers can use the free shuttle bus to transfer to Terminals 1 or 2.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A
Notes
Flights:
Depending on your flight schedule, you may depart Osaka either today or the following day (Day 13).
Important Notes
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Minimum: 2 individuals
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Maximum: 48 individuals
- To secure your booking, full payment is required at the time of reservation. After creating your booking, you will be directed to your invoice, where you can select your preferred payment method.
Voluntary Changes:
Please note that any changes or upgrades requested after the booking is confirmed will be subject to a fee of AUD220 per person per change, in addition to any applicable supplier costs. This fee covers modifications to flights, hotels, tour dates, or any other services included in your package. To ensure smooth processing, we kindly request that you provide us with a minimum of 72 hours notice for all voluntary changes.
Cancellations & Refunds:
Please note that in the event of tour cancellation, a cancellation fee of AUD550 per person will be charged, in addition to any relevant supplier costs. Refund requests must be submitted in writing and will take up to 6 weeks to process. It is important to note that no refunds can be issued once the tour has commenced (for the flight-inclusive package, no refunds can be issued once the flights have been ticketed).
Name Correction Fees:
A fee of AUD220 per person applies to name corrections on documents, along with any supplier costs. Kindly note that name corrections must be requested at least 72 hours prior to departure and are subject to approval from the supplier.
Document Change Fees:
A fee of AUD220 per person will be charged for any passport changes, in addition to any applicable supplier costs. Please note that train tickets and admission access must be linked to your travel passport details. Any changes to passport information must be requested at least 14 days before departure and are subject to approval from the supplier.
Supplier Fees:
In the event that the tour you have purchased is unable to proceed or a travel supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (such as a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our suppliers and is unrecoverable. This could be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins, or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. As your agent, Better Trip is committed to covering these costs and will make every effort to recover all funds committed and/or paid for your tour. However, please note that this may not be possible in every circumstance. If refunds are unavailable from our suppliers, we will strive to obtain a travel credit with the best possible terms and communicate these options to you. If Better Trip cannot obtain a refund, travel service credit, or only a partial refund, this cost will be passed on to the customer as a supplier fee. It is important to note that this fee is not intended to generate revenue but to cover the payments our suppliers withhold during the recovery process.
To ensure a smooth journey, it is imperative that you possess a valid passport and have obtained all necessary visas, permits, and certificates for the countries you plan to visit. Please note that passports are mandatory for all travellers when departing from Australia. For a permanent resident to travel on a foreign passport, you must also hold an Australian Re-entry Visa. Additionally, many countries require foreign nationals entering their borders to possess a passport with a minimum of six months validity. Remember, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring the accuracy of your documentation lies with you as the individual traveller. Any fines, penalties, or expenses incurred due to incorrect documentation will be solely your responsibility.
Travel insurance is a requirement for all our travellers and should be obtained at the time of booking. Your travel insurance should cover personal accidents, death, medical expenses, and emergency repatriation, with a recommended minimum coverage of US$200,000 for each category. We also strongly recommend coverage for cancellation, curtailment, personal liability, luggage loss, and personal effects. On the first day of your trip, you must provide proof of your travel insurance. Please note that joining the trip will not be possible without it. If you would like our assistance obtaining travel insurance, please contact us via email at bookings@bettertrip.com.au.
Some of our packages include airport transfers in one or both directions for your arrival or departure from your destination. To determine if transfers are included, please refer to the “What’s Included” section of your selected package.
If you arrange pre- or post-tour accommodations independently and the tour includes transfers, please note that these transfers will be forfeited. Transfers are provided only in conjunction with the tour dates and any pre- or post-tour accommodations booked through Better Trip, when available.
Additionally, our standard airport transfers operate on a group basis, which may involve waiting times of up to 2 hours. To avoid any potential delays, we recommend booking a private transfer for a more prompt and personalized service. For more information, please contact us at bookings@bettertrip.com.au.
The default flights included in this package have been predetermined by our product team in collaboration with the airline carriers. Please note the following conditions:
- The default flights cannot be changed or refunded at any time. If these flights are not used, any unused segments will be forfeited without a refund.
- Flight carriers and schedules will be available approximately three months before the tour date.
- For customised flight requests, including changes to flight times, airlines, or classes, a re-quote will be provided at the prevailing market price, and additional charges may apply.
- If you have booked a flight-inclusive package and choose not to use the default flights, please notify us at least 72 hours before departure. Failure to do so will be considered a no-show, and the entire tour will be cancelled without a refund.
If you have any further questions or require assistance, please contact us at bookings@bettertrip.com.au
Fitness Requirements
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, participants in our tours should have a moderate level of fitness, including the ability to walk for extended periods and navigate varying terrains. The tour may involve physical activities such as hiking and walking tours, so we recommend being comfortable with exertion for several hours. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, please consult a healthcare professional before booking. Regular physical activity leading up to the tour is encouraged to enhance your experience. Your safety is our top priority, so if you feel unwell during the tour, please inform your local guide.
Accommodation
Accommodations included in your tour package will be specified in your itinerary. While we strive to provide the listed accommodations, substitutions may be necessary due to availability. For bedding configurations, we offer double or twin options for travellers sharing a room, based on availability. Solo travellers who have purchased the single supplement will have the option of a single bed. Check-in is typically between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, and check-out usually occurs between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM; early or late check-in/out may be available upon request, but is not guaranteed. Standard amenities will be provided, although additional services may incur extra charges. We are not liable for any loss or damage to personal property during your stay, so we recommend securing travel insurance for unforeseen events. Lastly, guests are responsible for adhering to any health and safety guidelines set by the accommodation providers.
Underage Travellers
All travellers under the age of 18 must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian to participate in the tour and must be accompanied by a responsible adult who will ensure their safety and well-being. Accommodation arrangements must comply with the policies of the accommodation provider, which may have age restrictions regarding room occupancy. Parents or guardians are responsible for informing us of any medical conditions or special requirements for the minor, and we recommend that all minors have appropriate travel insurance. Some of our packages are exclusively available for adult travellers aged 18 and over. All travellers are expected to adhere to our code of conduct; inappropriate behaviour may result in removal from the tour without a refund. Additionally, some activities may have age restrictions, and it is the responsibility of the accompanying adult to ensure all activities are suitable for the minor.
Tipping
Tipping is not included in your tour package and is expected to be paid during the tour. Unless otherwise specified in the itinerary. We recommend a gratuity of AUD 20 per day, per person for tour guides, drivers, and other service personnel to reflect the level of service provided. Tipping can be made in cash and given directly to the service personnel at your discretion. Please note that tipping customs may vary by country, so we encourage you to familiarize yourself with local practices. By participating in our tours, you acknowledge and accept this tipping policy
Itinerary Modification
The itinerary presented in your tour package is subject to modification due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of Better Trip, such as weather conditions and operational requirements. In the event of any changes, we will notify you via email with relevant advice or instructions as soon as possible. While we will strive to provide suitable alternative arrangements, we cannot guarantee that all aspects of the original itinerary will remain unchanged. It is the traveller’s responsibility to stay informed of updates prior to departure, and by booking with us, you acknowledge and accept that itinerary modifications may occur.
Typically
$8999.00