Ancient & Modern Japan
14 Days Starting in Kyoto and ending in Tokyo
Visiting: Japan
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AOP
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 18
Age range:
16-99
Special diets catered:
Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Active, Adventure Tours, Small Group, Walking Hiking and Trekking
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Ancient wooden temples, raked-pebble Zen gardens and chanting Buddhist monks
juxtaposed with space-age towers, neon lights and bullet trains; Japan’s
captivating blend of old and new is legendary. As we explore the southern and
western stretches of Honshu, Japan's largest island, we discover the
country's unique culture amongst the serene shrines and gardens of Nara and
Kyoto and the rarely visited mountainous heartland of castles and spas. Our
last stop is the vast and futuristic capital city of Tokyo: sprawling,
inimitably busy, welcoming and extraordinary.
Highlights
Itinerary
The group flight to Kansai Airport (Osaka) departs in the afternoon from
London.
Day 2
The trip starts in Kyoto, an atmospheric city set amidst beautiful hills.
Those on the group flights from London will be met on arrival at Kansai
Airport this evening and transferred to our hotel located in the city centre.
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Day 3
With over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto is a treasure house of
Japan's cultural heritage and remains undoubtedly one of the most fascinating
cities in Asia. Unlike many other Japanese towns, it escaped the ravages of
both the Second World War and modern urban development, thereby keeping
intact much of the spirit and architecture of traditional Japan.
Today, we have an introductory tour of the city. Starting with a visit
to the famous Golden Temple of Kinkakuji, built in 1397 as a summer villa
for the shogun Yoshimitsu Ashikaga and immortalised in Mishima Yukio's novel,
'The Golden Pavilion'. We then visit the Ryoanji temple, home to Japan's
most famous and iconic rock garden, before moving onto the impressive Nijo
castle, built in 1603 as a residence for the Tokugawa shoguns.
At lunch we will head back to central Kyoto for a stroll at the famous
Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen', which specialises in all things
food related and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto
specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi. Those
who wish may opt to take a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants in
the area or rest at the hotel.
Later in the afternoon, we will have the opportunity to walk around historic
Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district. Packed with bars, restaurants and
traditional teahouses, Gion is at its most atmospheric in the early evening,
when the lanterns are lit and apprentice geisha will flit about the back
streets on their way to their appointments.
Day 4
Today we make a day trip to Japan's ancient capital, Nara (approx. 1hr each
way). With eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it's second only to Kyoto as a
repository of Japan's cultural legacy. Our walking tour includes a visit to
the most iconic temples and shrines, including the Todaiji Great Buddha
temple. Built in 752 by the Emperor Shomu this enormous 15 meter tall bronze
Buddha is housed in what is reputed to be the largest wooden building in the
world. We also spend time in the Nara Koen park, famous for its large numbers
of overfed and slightly unruly deer, and visit the attractive Kasuga Shinto
shrine, before returning to Kyoto in the late afternoon.
Day 5
Today is a free day for individual sightseeing. With so much to see and do in
Kyoto it can be difficult to know where to begin. Our advice is to start with
a very early visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto's most important Shinto
shrine and famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle
a network of trails behind its main buildings. Getting there before the
crowds at sunrise is the secret for a magical experience.
The rest of the day could be spent exploring one of the several well
established and easy-to-follow walking tours that take in many interesting
sights. The eastern part of Kyoto is particularly rich in temples and
gardens, and one can spend the day in this area, perhaps strolling along the
tree-lined canal known as the Philosophers' Path and taking time out for
contemplation in one of the many intriguing Zen gardens that dot the
hillsides.
Another day-trip to consider would be to Arashiyama, a pleasant tourist
district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular
destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its
natural setting. Arashiyama is particularly popular during the cherry blossom
and autumn colour seasons.
If you are interested in Japanese arts and cultural activities, there is also
the option of visiting a cultural show to see some of Japan's ancient
traditions such as the tea ceremony and Japanese theatre (these can be
arranged locally by your tour leader and subject to availability).
Day 6
Today is our first experience of Japan's shinkansen (bullet train) as we
speed our way to Hiroshima for the day (approx. 2hrs each way). Once in
Hiroshima, we make a short excursion by local tram and ferry to the beautiful
island of Miyajima; famous for the 'floating' tori (Shinto gate) of the
Itsukushima-jinja Shrine. At high tide, when set against the backdrop of Mt
Misen, this tori makes for one of the most beautiful and photogenic sights in
Japan. Please note, whilst the ‘floating’ tori of Itsukushima-jinja
Shrine is currently undergoing renovation works until summer 2020, we still
recommend a visit to this enchanting island as part of the day trip to
Hiroshima.
In the afternoon we spend time at the A-Bomb museum and the Peace Memorial
Park in Hiroshima, both monuments to the fateful day in August 1945 when the
city was selected as the target for the world's first wartime use of the
atomic bomb. In the park burns a symbolic flame that will only be
extinguished when the last nuclear weapon on earth has been destroyed. We
depart Hiroshima late afternoon arriving back at our hotel in Kyoto in the
evening.
Day 7
Travelling by train through forested valleys we make our way this morning to
the peaceful and attractive old town of Takayama (approx. 4 hrs) nestling
sleepily in the centre of the majestic Hida Mountains. We spend two nights
here and have plenty of time to appreciate the charm and ambience of this
delightful place. In the afternoon we visit the Hida Folk Village, an
interesting outdoor museum of traditional rural architecture set in pleasant
landscaped gardens, located a short walk from our accommodation. We stay in a
traditional Japanese style accommodation where we have the opportunity to
experience the Japanese lifestyle and hospitality (please refer to the
accommodation section for more information).
Day 8
With over a dozen museums and galleries to suit all interests and several
well-kept temples and parks, there are plenty of ways to spend a relaxing day
in Takayama. We start with a short orientation tour around the morning market
held daily along the banks of the Miyagawa River in the centre of town. Here
amidst the friendly farmers with their familiar, and not so familiar,
agricultural produce it is also possible to find some interesting souvenirs.
Not so far away and of particular interest is the well-preserved collection
of streets known as Sannomachi, where the many wooden built shops,
restaurants and sake breweries give the area a mediaeval feel. For an insight
into the life of medieval Japanese officials and the way they dealt (often
not so compassionately) with those in their charge, a visit to the old
Government House of Takayama-jinya is recommended. The remainder of the day
is free to explore the town at your own pace: we recommend taking a stroll
along the temple-line path called the Higashiyama Walkway and visit the
several temples and attractions created by the mediaeval warlord, Kanamori
Nagachika (1524-1600), who longed for Kyoto.
Day 9
Today we travel by express and local trains to the historic castle town of
Matsumoto (approx. 4hrs). Enroute, we visit the mediaeval village of Tsumago
that has changed little from its heyday as a post town in the Edo period.
This is the best preserved of the many staging posts along the old Nakasendo
Way, which fulfils the same role it did in centuries past - offering food and
refuge to travellers. Those who wish can join the leader for an optional 1hr
walk through peaceful forest trails, starting by the Odaki and Medaki
waterfalls and finishing in Tsumago. We reach Matsumoto late afternoon where
we have time to relax and perhaps take a leisurely stroll after dinner to see
the impressive castle by night.
Day 10
This morning we visit the impressive Matsumoto castle. Founded in 1504, this
castle, otherwise known as Crow Castle due to its black colour, is one of the
two best preserved in Japan, most others having been destroyed following the
Meiji Restoration. Its imposing six story donjon has been designated a
national treasure. Please note that the castle preserves its original
interior and structure, with very tall steps and steep staircases which some
might find difficult to ascend and descend. We return to Matsumoto train
station for our afternoon journey (approx. 3hrs) to the relaxing spa town of
Yudanaka, which boasts some fantastic natural hot springs, where we spend a
night in another Japanese-style accommodation.*
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Day 11
As well as being home to some of Japan's best hot springs, the small spa-town
of Yudanaka is mainly famous for being the gateaway to the famous Jigokudani
Onsen or 'Snow Monkey Park'. Here, the indigenous macaque monkeys have
discovered the benefits of descending from the hills to soak and play in hot
baths - observing their behaviour up close is fascinating! This is the only
tribe of monkeys anywhere in the world to bath in hot springs for warmth. The
sight is most spectacular in winter, when snow covers the grounds and the hot
steam creates some amazing visual effects but despite the name, the so called
'snow monkeys' actually inhabit the area year-round. To reach the park we
walk for approx. 20-25 mins on an easy forest trail and we will have approx.
1hr free to admire and photograph these entertaining creatures.
No visit to Japan would be complete without a trip to Tokyo. This afternoon,
we travel from Yudanaka to the capital by bullet train (approx. 4hrs),
arriving in the early evening. On arrival in Tokyo we'll transfer to our
hotel and start exploring the bright lights of the big city at night.
Day 12
For those wishing to see still more of this wonderful country, today is the
last day of your Japan Rail Pass, entitling you to free train journeys to
many destinations. One popular day-trip amongst tourists and Japanese alike
looking for a break from Tokyo is Hakone, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu
National Park, less than 1hr and 30 mins by train. Famous for hot springs,
natural beauty and the view of nearby Mt. Fuji, Hakone area also encompasses
Lake Ashi, which can be toured by boat.
Another alternative blissful escape from the city is the coastal town of
Kamakura, offering numerous temples, shrines, historical monuments as well as
panoramic hiking trails.
For those not wishing to leave Tokyo, this day is free to soak up the
atmosphere of this truly astounding city. Whilst being perhaps the most
energetic and futuristic city in the world, for a capital, Tokyo still
remains a remarkably friendly, safe, manageable and delightful place to
visit.
Day 13
Today we have a guided tour of Tokyo. Making use of the city's highly
efficient tube system we can visit some of Tokyo's main attractions including
Ueno (depending on season) and the lively Senso-ji Temple in the old
entertainment district of Asakusa. We will also visit one of the city's parks
or gardens which become especially spectacular during cherry blossom and
autumn season. There is also some free time to discover other attractions at
your own pace. For those with a head for heights we recommend an optional
visit to the iconic Skytree Tower for breathtaking views of the city. With a
height of 634 meters, it is the tallest building in Japan and the second
tallest structure in the world at the time of its completion. In the evening,
the possibilities for entertainment are almost limitless with Tokyo's
nightlife as exciting as anywhere in Asia.
Day 14
Today has been left free for further individual exploration of Tokyo. Worth
visiting is the Meiji Shrine; surrounded by tranquil forest, this Shinto
shrine is one of the most popular in Japan and combines traditional Japanese
architecture with love for the nature. Or for those interested in culture or
shopping, there are limitless opportunities with districts like Ginza,
Harajuku and Shinjuku catering for all tastes and needs! Your leader will be
on hand to advise how best to maximise your free day in Tokyo.
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Day 15
Those on the group flights will be transferred to Tokyo airport this evening
for the daytime flight to London. Please note that although late check out is
not included in the cost of the trip, the hotel provides free lugagge storage
facilities.
Day 16
Arrive London
What's Included
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Japan Rail Pass
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3 breakfasts and 3 dinners
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All accommodation
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All transport and listed activities
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Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
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Group arrival transfer (for group flight)
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Free departure transfer by shuttle service (must be booked in advance before trip commences with Exodus and is subject to availability)
What's Not Included
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Visas or vaccinations
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Single accommodation- (limited availability & on request)- 10 nights only at hotels in Kyoto, Matsumoto and Tokyo
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Travel insurance
Food
3 breakfasts and 3 dinners are included.
Japanese cuisine is usually one of the main highlights of any trip to Japan.
It is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes which are usually
prepared with seasonal ingredients. Seafood is very is common, and it
usually comes grilled or deep fried. Sushi and sashimi aside, other staple
dishes include Soba or Udon noodles, Sukiyaki (meat, fish and vegetables
cooked in broth) and Yakiniku (grilled meat).
The included dinners are usually taken at traditional guesthouses which will
serve a /kaiseki/ style dinner, a multi-course meal including a dozen of
tiny dishes prepared with locally-sourced seasonal ingredients. When food is
not included, your leader will always be on hand to recommend the best local
eateries and arrange some group meals for a full immersion in Japan's varied
and excellent cuisine.
Please note that in Japan the availability of certain specialised products
for restricted diets, e.g. gluten-free, strict vegetarian (no fish/seafood)
or vegan is minimal or non-existent. The group meals arranged by the tour
leader will be in traditional eateries where the choices of vegan dishes may
be limited to simple salads or boiled rice. However in Kyoto and Tokyo a
number of vegan restaurants are available. It may also be a good idea to
bring with you some foodstuffs that you normally consume, or to supplement
meals with snacks purchased in the local convenience stores.
Please advise us at time of booking you have any specific dietary
requirements.
Accommodation
In Kyoto, Matsumoto and Tokyo, our hotels are centrally located and of a comfortable standard with excellent modern facilities and English-speaking staff. Please note, room sizes in Western hotels in Japan are generally smaller. If requesting a double bed, these can be smaller than Western double bed sizes, so couples may prefer twin beds.
For three nights, we stay in traditional ryokans and minshukus; traditional inns/guesthouses where we can experience the rhythms and customs of the Japanese countryside. Ryokans and minshukus, while comfortable and full of local character, do not run along the same lines as Western hotels and all have their own unique style. Some are more like Japanese B&Bs (minshukus) with a homestay/guesthouse feel – guests make their own Japanese style beds up, while others are managed more like a standard hotel (ryokans) with bedding made up for guests. Rooms do not generally have private facilities and bedding is usually in the Japanese style with thick futons placed on tatami mats on the floor. Rooms are always doubles or twin-share but bathrooms and showers are generally communal. Please be advised, while females and males will have access to separate gender-specific bathrooms, inside showering and bathing facilities can lack the level of privacy of a Western-style shared bathroom.
Please note, free wifi is available at every hotel.
Single supplements
Single supplements can be pre-booked for 10 nights at the hotel accommodation in Kyoto (five nights), Matsumoto (one night) and Tokyo (four nights) only.
In Takayama (two nights) and Yudanaka (one night), single supplements are not available and rooming is based on twin share (sharing with another group member of the same sex).
Please be advised single supplements are limited, payable at the time of booking, and subject to availability. In Japan, single supplements are often accommodated in either an actual single and/or double for sole use.
2024 departures
Please be advised that the below accommodations are just a list of the standard hotels used for 2024 departures. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar hotels of the same standard and quality.
Kyoto (five nights): Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo
Takayama (two nights): Groups stay at one of a small selection of traditional guesthouses used by Exodus.
Matsumoto (one night): Dormy Inn Matsumoto
Yudanaka (one night): Biyu no Yado
Tokyo (four nights): Shinjuku Washington Hotel
Onsen (Japanese public bath)
For many visitors to Japan, the onsen is unfamiliar territory. An onsen is a Japanese hot spring and the bathing facilities and inns frequently situated around them. The combination of a strict bathing etiquette, that nudity is involved and compulsory, and that the water temperature is often hotter than most whirlpool baths can cause some reluctance for first timers. However, once the courage is mustered, you may discover that a dip in an onsen is likely to become one of the highlights of your visit to Japan. We can try an onsen in Takayama, and some hot springs in Yudanaka. Please be aware, you may be refused entry if you have large and visible tattoos. Some accommodations may have private baths available for reservation.
Check out our Q&As
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Who is Exodus Travels?
At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, our local guides are English speaking.
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.
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Are flights included in this tour?
International flights are not included with this tour.
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Exodus has been trading since 1974
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
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