Japan Family Adventure - 12 days

Japan Family Adventure - 12 days

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12 Days From

$3475

$3058

Japan Family Adventure - 12 days

12 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Kyoto

Visiting: Tokyo, Hakone, Hiroshima, Kyoto

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Tour code:

2902/JFA

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

5-60

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Activities:

Walking

From: $3475 $3058 Operator discount: -$417 -12%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a 12-day Japan Family Adventure, exploring the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Japan. Begin your journey in Tokyo, where you can dive into the bustling streets of Shibuya, the fashion-forward Harajuku, and the historic Asakusa district. Learn the art of sushi-making and enjoy panoramic city views. Travel to Hakone for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and a relaxing onsen experience. Discover Hiroshima's poignant history and the serene beauty of Miyajima Island. In Kyoto, engage in meditation with a Buddhist monk, explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, and stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. This small group tour offers a perfect blend of guided experiences and free time, ensuring a memorable family adventure in Japan.

Highlights

  • Tokyo - Explore the historic district of Asakusa, stroll through the Sumo District, and walk across the famous Shibuya Crossing.

  • Hiroshima – Uncover the city’s tragic past at the Peace Memorial Museum.

  • Cooking Class - Learn how to prepare authentic Japanese sushi with a hands-on cooking class.

  • Kyoto – Learn the art of meditation with a lesson by a Buddhist monk in Daisen-in Temple.

  • Hakone - Admire views of iconic Mount Fuji and take the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, an active volcanic zone.

  • Miyajima Island - Enjoy the relaxed pace of life, explore temples and shrines, and do some shopping.

  • Kyoto – Walk through vermilion torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: DDD Hotel

Welcome to the start of your Japan family tour! Upon your arrival in Tokyo, make your way to your accommodation. Enjoy the freedom of your first day to explore and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo. Whether wandering through bustling streets, trying local street foods, or simply taking in the unique sights, your journey has officially begun!

Day 2: Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: DDD Hotel

Meals Included: Lunch

Join us for a welcome meeting in the lobby this morning, where you'll have the chance to meet your Adventure Leader, fellow travelers, and receive essential details about the itinerary.





Afterwards, join a sushi-making class with a skilled sushi chef, and enjoy your delicious creations for lunch. Then, enjoy the scenic beauty of Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo’s largest parks, renowned for its cherry blossoms during springtime. You can spend as much time as you desire in the park before heading to the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.





In the evening, you are free to explore Shinjuku at your leisure – whether it's wandering the vibrant streets, unwinding at a local bathhouse, or shopping. For a unique experience, consider a visit to a local batting cage.

Day 3: Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: DDD Hotel

This morning, you'll take the train to teamLab Planets TOKYO, an immersive digital art installation and exhibition for the whole family to enjoy.





Following this, we will head to Harajuku, Tokyo's renowned fashion district. You'll have free time to explore the famous Takeshita Street and the iconic Meiji Shrine. While here, why not shop at the popular second-hand clothing store "Chicago," or try a meal at the renowned "Ghi" curry restaurant?





Then, experience the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, and don't forget to find the iconic Hachiko Statue. Here, you can also enjoy a visit to a cat cafe, enjoying a cup of coffee while spending time with adorable furry companions.

Day 4: Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: DDD Hotel

Today is a free day, for you to explore Tokyo however you wish!





In the morning, consider embarking on a train journey to Tokyo’s renowned Tsukiji Outer Market, offering an opportunity to enjoy fresh sashimi for lunch.





For anime and gaming fans, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Akihabara, recognised as Japan’s “electric town.” Explore iconic spots like "Super Potato" for retro game lovers or "Radio Gaikan" for anime enthusiasts – both offering unmissable experiences.





Alternatively, for a more traditional experience, venture to Sensō-ji Temple and delight in local street snacks in Asakusa during your free time.

Day 5: Hakone

Location: Hakone

Accommodation Name: Hotel Green Plaza

Tokyo - Hakone. This morning, we'll embark for Hakone via a series of trains and buses, including a ride on the famous "Romance Car," renowned for its picturesque views. We'll arrive at Hakone Yumoto Station just before midday.





Break for lunch, then transfer to Moto-Hakone by bus, followed by a delightful adventure aboard a sightseeing pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi. Weather permitting, you may even catch an unforgettable view of Mt. Fuji!





Next, experience the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, an active volcanic zone known for its black eggs, rumoured to extend life by seven years.





Conclude your day with a dip in the sulfuric waters of a traditional Japanese bath, known as an Onsen. Afterwards, change into your Yukata, a light kimono, and enjoy your free evening to unwind and explore Hakone at your leisure.

Day 6: Hiroshima

CRISTINA TIRON

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mystays Hiroshima Peace Park

Hakone - Hiroshima. Today you'll embark on an unguided journey from Hakone to the historic Hiroshima. You will need to take various buses and bullet trains, but your Adventure Leader will provide you with clear instructions.





You'll have short stops at Odawara station, where you can purchase a Japanese famous "Ekiben" (Lunch box), and at Shin-Osaka station, where you can consider trying the famous snack from Osaka, "Takoyaki" (Octopus ball).





You will arrive in Hiroshima Station just before 17:00. Upon arrival, take the tram to Hachobori station. Your hotel will be located just a short walk away.





For dinner, try the famous local dish "Okonomiyaki" at Okonomiyaki Village (Okonomi Mura).

Day 7: Hiroshima

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mystays Hiroshima Peace Park

Begin your morning with a visit to the impactful Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Atomic Bomb Dome, offering a profound insight into history. Keep some snacks handy as lunch may be late today.





In the afternoon, venture to Miyajima Island by train and ferry, where the stunning Itsukushima Shrine and the iconic red torii gate standing in the sea await. Take advantage of low tide to walk across the sand for an up-close view.





Enjoy free time to explore the island, have lunch, or choose to enter Itsukushima Shrine (additional fee, booked & paid locally). Explore Miyajima Island at your own pace before making your own way back to your Hiroshima hotel.

Day 8: Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Hiroshima - Kyoto. Commence your day by departing from Hiroshima Station to Kyoto via Shin-Osaka. Consider grabbing a famous Japanese "Ekiben" (lunch box) for your bullet train journey. The lunch box options can be found after passing through the bullet train ticket gate at Hiroshima station.





Arriving at Kyoto Station, you will meet your Adventure Leader and be assisted in transferring to your hotel.





After settling in, join a meditation class at Daisen-in Zen temple, led by a Buddhist monk, featuring a tea ceremony. Later, explore the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion, recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.





Following this, you have the option to enjoy free time in the Gion and Higashiyama area. Stroll through Pontocho alley in the Geisha District, discovering Japanese traditional arts and crafts.

Day 9: Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Today is an unguided day, where you will explore Kyoto's treasures at your own pace. First stop is a visit to Kiyomizu Temple. Please note, there is a small entry free to enter the temple.





You'll then take a bus bound for the Arashiyama area. Upon arrival, make sure to take a free area map from the station and indulge in free time for lunch around JR Saga-Arashiyama Station.





Embark on a cultural journey by visiting Tenryu-Ji Temple and admiring its breathtaking Zen Garden. After leaving the temple, hike through Arashiyama’s Bamboo Forest, starting the Bamboo Forest Trail from the north gate of Tenryu-ji Temple. Continue your exploration with a visit to Arashiyama Monkey Park, which can be reached by crossing the Togetsu-gyo bridge.





In the evening, explore Nishiki Market, known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, located approximately 2 minutes' walk from your hotel. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and tasty local food offerings.

Day 10: Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Start your day with a Calligraphy Lesson! Engage in the unique and culturally enriching experience of calligraphy, a craft deeply rooted in Japanese tradition.





Following the calligraphy session, take advantage of free time in the Shijo Kawaramachi area, where you can explore or break for lunch. Afterwards, delve into the world of manga at the Manga Museum, an unmissable experience that captures the essence of Japan's vibrant pop culture.





Continue your exploration with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its red torii gates that form a pathway up the sacred Mount Inari. As the day concludes, return to your hotel with the evening at leisure.

Day 11: Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Today is a free day for you to explore Kyoto and its surrounds at your own pace!





You can opt to explore the serene Philosopher’s Path, adorned with majestic temples. Stroll along this scenic route, taking in the beauty that surrounds you.





Perhaps you want to immerse yourself in culture by visiting Todaiji Temple and the deer park in Nara. Experience the charm of friendly deer that bow for treats, creating a memorable interaction.





You can even choose to spend the day in nearby Osaka, starting with a visit to the iconic Osaka Castle. Wander through the expansive double moat and explore the nine-level castle keep. Dive into the excitement of a six-level gaming arcade, shop in the lively Shinsaibashi district, and end your day along the vibrant Dotonbori Riverfront.



Day 12: Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Sadly, today marks the end of your Japan family adventure. You can either transfer to Osaka’s Kansai airport to fly home, or hop on the bullet train back to Tokyo and fly home from there. Transfers are not included but can be booked on request for a supplement.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    3 star & traditonal ryokan stay

  • 11 nights accommodation in 3 star hotels and Ryokans

  • 7 Day JR Pass

  • IC Transport Card

  • Sushi Making Class in Tokyo

  • Entrance to teamLab Planets Tokyo

  • Trains from Tokyo - Hakone, Odawara - Kyoto via Shin-Osaka and Kyoto - Hiroshima via Shin-Osaka

  • Meditation Lesson in Daisen-In Temple in Kyoto

  • Calligraphy Lesson in Kyoto

  • Fuji Hakone National Park, with lake cruise, cable cars, ropeways and switchback trains

  • Onsen experience

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What's Not Included

  • International flights and visa

    International flights and visa are not included in the tour package.

  • Airport transfers

    Airport transfers are not included in the tour package.

  • Tipping - an entirely personal gesture

    Tipping is not included and is considered a personal gesture.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities are not included and may incur additional costs.

Accommodation

Experience comfort and convenience at DDD Hotel in Tokyo, Green Plaza Hakone with stunning Mount Fuji views, Hotel Mystays Hiroshima Peace Park near iconic sites, and Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi in Kyoto. Enjoy modern amenities, traditional touches, and easy access to local attractions.

Age Policy

Child age: 5 -11.99. (12 and over is adult price) Max age is 60 years old. There is some flexibility with the maximum age on the family tours but GH requires our OTG Tour suitability form to be completed by all pax aged 60+. Not recommended for children under 7 years as there is a lot of walking but can accept as young as 5. 

Mode of Transport

Travel through Japan with ease using a 7-day JR Pass and IC Transport Card. Enjoy scenic train rides from Tokyo to Hakone, Odawara to Kyoto, and Kyoto to Hiroshima. Experience local buses, bullet trains, and a pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi for a seamless journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation can we expect during the tour?

    The tour includes 11 nights of accommodation in 3-star hotels and traditional Japanese ryokans. In Tokyo, you'll stay at the centrally located DDD Hotel, which offers air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi. In Hakone, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the Green Plaza Hakone, which features open-air hot-spring baths. In Hiroshima, you'll stay at Hotel Mystays Hiroshima Peace Park, conveniently located near the Atomic Bomb Dome. In Kyoto, accommodation is provided at Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, which offers a buffet breakfast and complimentary WiFi.

  • What activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a variety of activities such as a sushi-making class in Tokyo, a meditation lesson by a Buddhist monk in Kyoto, and a calligraphy lesson. You'll also have the opportunity to visit teamLab Planets Tokyo, take a cruise on Lake Ashi, and experience the Hakone Ropeway. Additionally, there is a day trip to Miyajima Island and an onsen experience.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by a bilingual adventure leader who will provide guidance and assistance throughout the journey.

  • Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

    The tour is suitable for children aged 5 to 11.99 years, with those aged 12 and over considered adults. The maximum age is 60 years old, although there is some flexibility for those over 60, provided they complete a tour suitability form. The tour is not recommended for children under 7 due to the amount of walking involved, but children as young as 5 can be accepted.

  • What is the transportation arrangement during the tour?

    The tour includes a 7-day JR Pass and an IC Transport Card for travel within Japan. Transportation between cities is primarily by train, including bullet trains from Tokyo to Hakone, Odawara to Kyoto via Shin-Osaka, and Kyoto to Hiroshima via Shin-Osaka. The tour also includes a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi and various local buses and trams.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Thursday

Mar 23, 2025 - Apr 03, 2025
$3755 $3380

Operator discount: -$376

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Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025
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Operator discount: -$376

Sunday - Thursday

May 25, 2025 - Jun 05, 2025
$3475 $3058

Operator discount: -$417

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Jun 22, 2025 - Jul 03, 2025
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Operator discount: -$417

Sunday - Thursday

Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 31, 2025
$3475 $3058

Operator discount: -$417

Sunday - Thursday

Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 28, 2025
$3475 $3058

Operator discount: -$417

Sunday - Thursday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025
$3475 $3058

Operator discount: -$417

Prices last published on 22-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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