12 Days Japan Tour
Explore Japan’s varied and exciting cuisine on a culinary tour from Tokyo.
Pack your chopsticks and celebrate thousands of years of food artistry by diving into one of the world’s most elegant, eclectic and harmonious cuisines. Combine time spent seeing the country's sights with a scouting out of its prized eating and drinking spots. Watch yakitori sizzling in front of you in Shinjuku's Memory Lane, eat fresh-off-the-boat sashimi at the incredible Tsukiji Fish Market, learn to make soba noodles in a hands-on cooking class and take on a sumo wrestler – in the eating department – with a bowl of chanko nabe. Glimpse a geisha drifting through the alleyways of Gion while in Kyoto and experience a charming kaiseki dinner, otherwise known as a multi-course meal of seasonal and local specialties, at a traditional ryokan. If it's a trip that tantalises the tastebuds as well as sates the sense of adventure, this Japan Real Food Adventure ticks all the boxes.
- Snatch up some grilled skewers in Shinjuku's Memory Lane
- Score a bargain at the Tsukiji Fish Market
- Gorge on fresh and succulent sushi and sashimi
- Pay your respects at the Toshogu Shrine
- Sample Shingo Buddhist delicacies in Koya-san
- Knock back some sake at a Kyoto brewery
- Get lost among Nishiki Market's endless food stalls
- Hit up Osaka’s crazy nightlife
- Trip length:
- 12 Days
- Group size:
- Max 12
- Start:
- Tokyo
- End:
- Osaka
- Vehicle:
- Train, Bullet Train, Bus
- Sleep:
- Hotel, Monastery
Itinerary
Days 1-3 Tokyo
Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan.
Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:00pm on Day 1.
Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader.
Head for Shinjuku's Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley). This crowded alley of busy restaurants and bar stalls originated in the 1940s and quickly gained infamy as a black market drinking quarter. Today, it is still one of the best spots to try some of Tokyo’s famed ‘fast food’ dishes, including yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) as well as some of the city’s more daring fare.
From the observation deck of Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building we have a fantastic night view over this wonderful metropolis.
Get ready for a very early start to catch a live auction at the world-renowned Tsukiji Fish Market. This market is the biggest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world, selling more than 400 types of seafood from around the globe. The auctions start around 5.20am and conclude by 7.00am.
The Tsukiji Fish Markets are closed every national holiday and every Sunday, and the tuna auctions may be closed to visitors during busy times.
Sit down at one of the sushi restaurants surrounding the market and enjoy the freshest sushi breakfast you will ever eat! You may also want to browse among the surrounding shops specialising in Japanese kitchen gadgets and restaurant supplies.
Visit a sumo stable where we can watch the wrestlers take part in their morning practice. Please note that occasionally the sumo stables are closed and not accessible to the public. Another activity will be substituted in its place if this occurs.
Learn the art of creating soba, Japan’s famed buckwheat noodle, in a hands-on cooking class. Slurp up your creations for lunch.
Enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing in the Asakusa area. This old part of town is home to Kappabashi-dori (or Kitchen Town), a street almost exclusively dedicated to shops supplying the local restaurant industry. This is the perfect place to score an offbeat kitchen gadget, a soba knife or marvel at the life-like plastic food samples seen in many restaurant windows around the city. For any sweet-tooths, this will be the place to satisfy your craving as there are many local sweets to be sampled.
You will also have time for your own food adventure. Perhaps discover the charms of a typical Japanese izakaya or indulge in one of Tokyo’s famed high-end dining establishments.
After dinner, your leader may also have a tip on where to grab a nightcap at one of Tokyo's uber-cool underground whisky bars.
Included Activities
- Memory Lane Yakitori Dinner
- Tokyo - Metropolitan Government Building
- Asakusa Guided Walk
- Tokyo - Tsukiji Fish Market & Sushi breakfast
- Soba Noodle Making Lesson
- Tokyo - Sumo Stable visit
- Tokyo - Depachika visit
- Tokyo Farmers Market Visit
Optional Activities
- Japanese Izakaya Dinner - JPY2500
- Tokyo Whiskey Bar - (Drinks at own expense, price is a guide only) - JPY1500
- Chanko Nabe Restaurant - JPY2000
- Karaoke - JPY2000
Days 4-5 Nikko
Set amid a magnificent cedar forest, Nikko is home to some of Japan's most important shrines and temples - including the elaborately decorated Toshu-gu Shrine.
Experience the collision of old and new Japan as you head from Tokyo to rural Nikko. Visit the resting place of a Tokugawa shogun. Sip local sake while soaking in a traditional onsen and enjoy a traditional meal of rural Japanese cuisine.
During our time in Nikko we learn about and taste the different foods long associated with temple and shrine complex and their ceremonies - from life to death. A town with many vegetarian restaurants we get the chance to explore and learn about local dishes such as yuba-ryori (tofu skin). We visit the lake area in the Nikko National Park and take the time to learn the ins and outs of all things fresh from these rich food sources - from water to plate over the centuries.
Included Activities
- Nikko - Toshogu Shrine
Optional Activities
- Bus to Chuzenji Lake (return) - JPY2200
- Imperial Villa - JPY500
Days 6-7 Koya-san
Founded in the 8th century by the Buddhist saint Kobo Daishi, Koya San has been a centre for religious activities for over 1,200 years. We stay in one of the hundreds of temples still operating and learn more about the lives of the monks as we follow their routine of morning meditation and evening prayers. For our meals (included), we enjoy strict vegetarian fare, lovingly prepared and presented by the novice monks.
We visit the temple complex of Kongobu-ji, with its complex history and religious significance. Now the head temple of all Shingon sect temples in Japan it features the largest rock garden in Japan, a sublime creation of white raked pebbles and seemingly randomly placed dark stones. Another must see sight is the graveyard of Okuno-in, a massive area containing over half a million graves. The path leading from the entrance of the graveyard to the resting place of Kobo Daishi is 2km long and on either side are the tombstones of people wanting to rest close to the founder of the Shingon sect.
Our temple lodging in Koya San has shared facilities and we join the monks for prayers before eating shojin-ryori meals.
Included Activities
- Koya-san - Okunoin Cemetery
Days 8-10 Kyoto
This amazing city was originally founded as Heian-kyo in 794 and had its golden age during the imperial court's heyday from 794 to 1185. The city still bears the name Kyoto ('Capital City'), even though the emperor and government are now located in Tokyo. Home to many cultural landmarks and historical sites, Kyoto is regarded as the cultural heart of Japan, with its abundance of traditional arts and literature.
With magnificent temples, stunning gardens and gorgeous geishas, Kyoto is the ancient heart of Japan's unique culture.We have time to reflect on the past through visits to some of the seasonally stunning sites of this ancient capital and time to delve into geisha culture and the food that goes with this ancient art. At night we visit the busy Gion area and try some of the largely unknown Kyoto street food as well as okonomiyaki, famous in this part of town. For authentic tastes and smells of the kitchen of Kyoto we visit the Nishiki market and finish up at a Sake brewery to learn all there is to know about this ancient conversation starter and the food that goes with it.
With your free time you may want to try kaiseki ryori, the traditional food with artistic design or you might give one of the may Michellin rated restaurants a try.
Included Activities
- Kyoto - Temple/Shrine entrance (2)
Optional Activities
- Kinkakuji Temple - Free
- Sanjusangendo Temple - JPY600
- Tea Ceremony - JPY2000
- Kiyomizu Temple - JPY400
- Home-cooking class - JPY3800
- Bike hire (per day) - JPY800
Days 11-12 Osaka
Known for its delicious cuisine, Osaka's sprawling shopping hubs and tiny backstreets are overflowing with restaurants and bars serving up local delicacies, such as takoyaki (octopus balls).
What better way to finish our trip than in a city that has the motto 'Kuidaore' which translates to 'eat until you drop'!
With our time in Osaka we learn how to make takoyaki, quick hands are needed, and for the daring amongst us, you have the option of celebrating our time in Japan with a final dinner of fugu. No other city eats more fugu (pufferfish) than Osaka and only specialised chefs who have passed rigorous training can prepare the dish. If fugu is not your style you can try Osaka's very own sushi, hako zushi or sample some of the local street food offerings and wash it down with a locally brewed beer.
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time.
Included Activities
- Takoyaki (octopus ball) class
Optional Activities
- Osaka Castle - JPY600
- Bunraku Puppet performance - JPY2500
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Shorts
- Long trousers
- Hiking pants/track pants
- Shirts/T-shirts
- Warm clothes for November-February: fleece, jacket, hat and gloves, warm layers
- Waterproof jacket or Umbrella
- Walking boots
EQUIPMENT/OTHERS
- Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- USD cash
- Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- Day pack for daily personal items
- Lock for all bags
- Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
- Alarm clock
- Flashlight
- Sun hat, Sun block, Sunglasses
- Insect Repellent
- Water bottle and Plastic mug for train journeys
- Ear plugs for train journeys or light sleepers
- Small towel and swim wear
- Toiletries (biodegradable)
- Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
- Money belt
- Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry.
- Camera and film
- Reading/writing material
- Binoculars
- Pocketknife
- First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
What is included
TRANSPORT
- Train
- Bullet Train
- Bus
ACCOMMODATION
- Hotels (9 nights), Monastery (2 nights)
MEALS
- 11 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners
- Budget for meals not included: USD 360
OTHERS
- Group Leader
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
What should I pack?
Once you’ve confirmed your booking, we send out trip-specific pre-departure information with a general packing list as well as a list of any other special items you may need to bring.
What immunisations do I need?
Immunisations vary from country to country and we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations. In some places anti-malaria medication may also be required. Some vaccines need to be administered a few weeks before departure, so allow plenty of time. It is also important that you obtain a certificate of vaccination and you must carry this with you on your trip. Please note that in some cases a certificate of vaccination is compulsory in order to obtain a visa.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
We recommend you carry personal medical items for managing common minor ailments such as colds, diarrhoea, blisters and sore throats etc. Travellers who take regular medication should take an appropriate supply. Asthma sufferers should ensure that they have an adequate supply of their routine medicine, as some major cities have high levels of smog.
How much luggage do I need to take?
As a general rule, the less luggage you bring with you, the better. You’ll probably be buying souvenirs and the like along the way, so leave some space! There will be times when you will be carrying your luggage on and off public transport, so you should consider travelling with a backpack or a soft duffel bag. Suitcases aren’t suitable for these types of holidays. Each airline has specific rules as to luggage allowances, so check directly with them or ask your travel consultant to confirm for you.
Do I need a sleeping bag?
Sometimes. This varies depending on which trip you are booking on, and we will let you know in the info pack that we send to you on confirmation of your booking.
How do I get a visa?
Please note that visas for Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The Visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up to date information please check your governments foreign ministry website or with your travel agent as rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travellers there will probably be an embassy and consulate in the country that you live in. *Please have extra USD on hand in case the customs officials charge more at the border crossing.Please be aware that you will require two clean pages (minimum) in your passport and at least six months validity.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is compulsory that you have comprehensive travel insurance. Domestic government medical insurance and private health schemes will not cover you in most overseas countries. Your policy MUST cover medical costs in case of hospitalisation, emergency travel and repatriation. Once you have paid your deposit or full payment, certain fees will apply if you cancel your holiday. Insurance should therefore be organised at the time of booking to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances that would require you to cancel before travelling. Your tour guide will need two copies of your policy - the Tour Guide and our Ground Operator will keep one copy each in the unlikely event of an emergency. The copies must show the policy number and the emergency hotline phone number.
Does the tour price included international flights?
The prices quoted on the site do not include international flights.
Where does the tour start?
Tours will always start in a specified hotel and we will let you know exactly when you need to be at that hotel. We can organise airport transfers, if you wish.
Can I book accommodation at the start and/or end of the tour?
Yes. In all cases, we can organise extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour. Just let us know and we’ll organise a quote for you.
What form of transport do we use around the Himalayas and Nepal?
As a general rule, we travel on local transport, mixing with the locals and getting involved. In some places, the best way to explore is on foot, in others we’ll jump on boats, bemos, canoes, camels, tuk-tuks, songthaews… you get the picture. The style of transport will be as varied as it is fun…. we don’t like sealing you up in a 50-seater coach. Sometimes, however, local transport is not practical – you just can’t jump on a No. 96 bus in northern Thailand – so in these instances, we hire our own vehicles.
Private tours and families
Can I organise a private tour?
Of course! If there’s a minimum of two people, pick an existing itinerary and contact us and we can arrange the trip as a private tour. Or if you’re after something a bit different, if you have a minimum of four people for a trip, contact us and we can put together a tailored and personally designed itinerary for you
Booking the trip
Do I need to book online?
No. Whilst this site is designed to make booking as easy as possible, we appreciate that sometimes it’s nice to talk to a human being, so give us a call! We can do the whole booking procedure over the phone.
How do I know if the tour is available?
To see the scheduled departure dates just click the “Check Dates” button on the top right of the page. To ensure the scheduled departure is going ahead send us an email to info@worldlypeople.org and we get back to you within a couple of hours.
How far in advance do I need to book?
There is no guarantee as to when other people will book and hence when the tour will fill up. Our advice is that as soon as you know which one you want to book, don’t delay - put your name down as soon as possible, that way you won’t be disappointed.However, we can usually take bookings for most of our tours right up until the departure date if there are spaces left, so have a look at the availability, and if there’s still space we’ll gladly take your booking
When is final payment on tours due ( for deposit payments )
The final payment is due in full 56 days before the departure of your trip. If you’ve booked your trip within 56 days of the departure date, full payment is needed.
Who travels with us
How fit do I need to be?
Our holidays are fun and can be enjoyed by anyone who is reasonably fit. However, some trips visit remote areas where medical facilities are very limited or non-existent, so you must be in good health. Some trips may include a trekking element, so some pre-trek preparation will be an advantage. There are some other factors to consider: bumpy roads, dust, traffic, delays and unfamiliar customs and cultures may all create additional demands. You will also have to carry your own bags so bear that in mind when deciding if you really need that other pair of shoes.
Is this trip for me?
These trips appeal to people who want the fun, freedom and flexibility of independent travel, but want to make the most of their time and prefer that someone else takes care of the hassles and organisation – queuing for tickets and looking for a hotel at night can be a real drag! These trips are also for people who want to get a deeper understanding of the region they visit - our innovative itineraries and exceptional team leaders make this happen. Or perhaps you are a single traveller and like the safety and companionship of travelling with a few others, sharing the experiences and adventures together.
The majority of travellers are in their 20s and 30s, but if you’re on the ‘other side’ of 40, then that’s great too! Please bear in mind that these trips are designed for travellers and our trips are go, go, go! Essential on your list of things to pack are an open mind, sense of adventure and an easygoing attitude. On these trips you don’t pay for unnecessary extras – that’s why the prices are so good. We include many of the must see sights, but keep plenty of free time aside so you can go on your own way and make your own discoveries. Your lodging will be basic, but clean and comfortable, locally run, and usually reflecting the character of the region. Aside from being a more interesting place to stay than a bland internationally-run hotel, this also helps to keep the cost down. You might spend a night or two in a ‘home stay’, lodge or hacienda - these could be fairly basic, but certainly a real highlight, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. Many of the tours have several long travelling days, often on local transport, and sometimes on rough roads. The trips are packed with highlights and the pace is fast, so we can see as much as possible - although there’s always time to chill out, enjoy a cold drink and watch the world go by if that’s what you feel like doing.
Is this a typical group tour?
Most travellers consider themselves independent travellers, rather than typical group travellers. This is just as well because these tours are a long way from your typical group tour - freedom and flexibility are fundamental! There are usually around 8 people on a trip (the maximum is 14), and you’ll find that the excellent tour prices offer a real alternative to backpacking. Our travellers want to explore places at a grassroots level, and have a great time while they do this.
Im a single travellers, is that OK?
Most of our travellers are ‘flying solo’ and like the thought of travelling with like-minded souls. Your tour will have a strong social element and you'll almost certainly come home with some new friends. Some of the tours offer single supplement option. You can see these prices under the “Join Tour” drop down menu.
Who will I travel with?
Every group is different, however you'll generally travel with a mix of nationalities from all over the world.
Are there any age limits?
There is no specific upper age limit on our tours; they’re more of a suggestion. The majority of travellers are in their 20s and 30s, but if you are on the ‘other side’ of 40, then that’s great too! Essential on your list of things to pack are an open mind, sense of adventure and an easy-going attitude.
In general, we do not take people under the age of 18. If you are interested in taking your family away, let us know and we’ll see if we can organise a private departure for you.
How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 13 passengers per vehicle or tour guide, with the average being 9.
Cost and Fees
What's included in the tour price?
Please refer to the “what’s included” section on your tour page for the most up to date information.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. It’s handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
What is a "Trip Kitty"?
The trip kitty is to be paid in cash (in the currency indicated) at the start of your trip. Give it directly to your local leader, who can then pay for items locally throughout your trip, eg. meals. Having a trip kitty also helps us to pass savings onto you.
Can I pay the local payment in local currency?
The local payment needs to be paid in the currency indicated in the itinerary and final invoice. Most tours will have this included in the tour price. Please check the included section above.
How much spending money do I need?
Not a lot! Your accommodation, transport, local leader and some meals are included. Depending on where you are, you'll generally get by on about US$25 a day, covering meals, drinks and souvenirs.
What is the best way to take money with me?
A combination of cash, an ATM card and perhaps a credit card as back-up is good. Travellers cheques are a safe way to carry money, however travellers can find it difficult in some areas to exchange them.
As a general rule, American dollars are accepted throughout the world, but make sure you have small denomination bills, and that they are not ripped or marked, as this may affect your ability to change them. And remember to check with your bank about using your bank cards overseas.
Do I need to tip the local guide?
Your tour guide works hard to ensure you have a great trip, so please don’t hold back if you feel they have earned a tip for their efforts. If you would like to reward your tour guide for his or her services, you can choose to do so individually or make a group presentation at the end of the tour.
Whilst on tour
Can I wash my laundry?
Many of the places we stay have laundry facilities nearby, especially within cities. It is also a good idea to bring some ‘travel wash’, and a travel clothes line, to wash the necessities. This will help you cut down on packing space, and hence the amount you have to lug around with you!
Can I get on the internet whilst on tour?
Internet cafés are plentiful throughout much of the world, particularly in major cities – an internet email address and a webcam/phone account (such as skype) are good ways of staying in touch.
Will my mobile phone work?
Do you really want to take your phone with you? One of the biggest pleasures about getting away is leaving telephones and computers behind! However, if you really do want to take your phone with you, there is a good chance that it will work in most major cities. Check with your service provider before you go if they have a reciprocal agreement with the countries you are travelling to, and make sure you remember to get international roaming turned on.
Can I do a section of the tour and not the whole trip?
Unfortunately it is not possible to just do sections of the tour. Some of the longer tours are made up of smaller tours completed back-to-back, and hence might be possible to book separately. It may be possible to arrange a private charter for you from a section of the tour so please contact us.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Several of our holidays include travel by boat, ship or canoe. It is assumed by us that you can swim, unless you advise us otherwise. If you cannot swim, you must let us know, so we can let your tour leader know. However, swimming is by no means compulsory at any stage in our trips.
Can I bring gifts for people?
If you want to give something to the local people please bring something useful like pens or school books, not lollies. The other thing we insist upon is that gifts are distributed in an organised and responsible manner - either through the headmaster of a school or ask your tour leader what the most beneficial approach is. Some children, and even adults, may ask for things on the street, in villages, etc, and although giving a ‘present’ may give both of you a brief moment of joy, handing things out like this only encourages begging and is destructive in the long term.
How much free time is there?
It is an integral part of all our trips to give you enough free time to explore by yourself. Many of your most memorable experiences will occur when you branch out and do your own thing. We understand that different people have different interests, so we build in free time to make your own discoveries. The framework is in place and the details are taken care of, but on many days, you decide what you want to see and do. After all, you might be thoroughly sick and tired of temples, while another group member just can’t get enough of them. It’s your holiday, so it’s your choice.
Will there be time to explore the cities we start and finish in? Or should I arrange extra time?
With all of our tours, we strongly believe we have well balanced itineraries to enable you to explore all the places you are visiting. There is generally no need to arrive early or leave later. However, there is always more to discover and we can arrange additional accommodation, should you need it.
What standard of accommodation should I expect?
Your lodging will be basic, but clean and comfortable, locally run, and usually reflecting the character of the region. Aside from being a more interesting place to stay than a bland internationally-run hotel, this also helps to keep the cost down and by supporting local businesses you help the local economy. You might also spend a night or two in a ‘home stay’, lodge or hacienda - these could be fairly basic, but will almost certainly end up being one of the highlights, offering a chance to really immerse yourself in the local culture.
What will the food be like?
Experiencing the local flavours is definitely a highlight on our trips. Our local tour guides take you to out of the way places and experience the best and most interesting cuisine of the cultures you visit. The guides’ local knowledge will mean you can decipher menus, get useful tips on what to try, and visit all the most interesting restaurants and markets. There will always be a very strong local influence in the food, which we believe is what travel is all about.
What about if I am a vegetarian? Or if I have a special diet?
No problem at all! The only important thing is that you let us know in advance, so we can inform our local tour guides. That way, they can look out for you and make sure you are looked after in the local restaurants. It is important to realise that in some places your diet might be slightly limited, as meat can form an integral part of the local diet. If in doubt, ask our consultants for their first-hand knowledge of each individual destination.
Are there any long travelling days?
Many of the tours have several long travelling days, often on local transport, and sometimes on rough roads. The trips are packed with highlights and the pace is fast, so we can see as much as possible. Although there’s always time to chill out, enjoy a cold drink and watch the world go by if that’s what you feel like doing. The trip notes for each trip will give you a strong indication of the travelling times for each day.
What will the weather be like?
Check our weather widget on the right side of the page for up to date information on the weather conditions. Otherwise, send us an email and we will let you know how things are at the moment!