Independent Treasures of Japan

11 days
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
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USTOA

Group Tour
Journey through Japan on this fascinating Independence by Globus itinerary. A “prefecture” and capital of Japan, Tokyo is the world’s most populous metro area and home to unlimited choices—shopping, dining, entertainment, historic temples and sites, peaceful gardens, and excellent museums. Your private guided sightseeing tour includes Meiji Shrine, a 20th-cen...
25%
$7,964
From$5,959
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Overview

Trip type
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

What's this trip about?

    Journey through Japan on this fascinating Independence by Globus itinerary. A “prefecture” and capital of Japan, Tokyo is the world’s most populous metro area and home to unlimited choices—shopping, dining, entertainment, historic temples and sites, peaceful gardens, and excellent museums. Your private guided sightseeing tour includes Meiji Shrine, a 20th-century Shinto monument built within a man-made forest; browse the bustling Nakamise Shopping Arcade; and visit one of the city’s most dazzling temples, the Asakusa Kannon Temple. You’ll also ascend the Tokyo Skytree for spectacular views over the city. During your free day, you may choose a trip to Mount Fuji. A highlight of the vacation is the shinkansen (bullet train) ride from Tokyo to Kyoto. Reaching nearly 200-miles-per-hour, this is by far the most entertaining way to travel between cities. The “cradle” of Japan’s cultural heritage, Kyoto, was the country’s capital and residence of the emperor from the 8th until the 19th centuries. Your private guided sightseeing tour includes visits to Sanjusangendo Temple, the Samurai Museum, where you can learn about Japanese history and see authentic swords and armor, and the beautiful Temple of the Gold Pavilion. Built on a lake and surrounded by a thick forest, the image of the temple’s reflection in the water is a can’t-miss photo opportunity and memorable scenic view. You’ll also walk through Gion and explore the thousands of Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine. Take some I-time for a visit nearby Nara or to explore Nishiki Market. Continue to Hiroshima where you’ll visit Peace Memorial Park and Itsukushima Shrine both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. End your exploration of Japan in Osaka with visits to Osaka Castle and Minami, the famous entertainment district and where the locals go for fun.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start City TOKYO, JAPAN
End CityOSAKA

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural

Destinations

Attractions

  • Hiroshima
  • Kyoto
  • Osaka
  • Tokyo

Activities

  • Culture

Itinerary

Day 1: ARRIVE IN TOKYO, JAPAN

Welcome to Japan! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.

TOKYO.jpg

Day 2: TOKYO

• Today, hop on Tokyo’s subway system for a private guided sightseeing tour of the city. Start with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. • At Tokyo Skytree ascend to Sorakara Point on floor 450 at some 4...

Day 3: TOKYO

• Enjoy a full day at your leisure.

Today's I-Time Tips Enjoy a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. Utilize your included Tokyo Metro Pass to explore more of Tokyo’s unique neighborhoods, take a day trip to Mount Fuji, or visit the street-food markets for local specialties. (Breakfast)

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Day 4: TOKYO–KYOTO

• Today, travel by shinkansen (bullet train) to historic Kyoto, former capital of Japan.

(Breakfast)

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Day 5: KYOTO

• Your private guided sightseeing tour uses efficient public transportation to take you around the city. Start at stunning Kinkakuji, Temple of the Gold Pavilion, covered with shimmering gold leaf. • Next, take a walking tour through Gion, Kyoto’s most famous ...

Day 6: KYOTO

• Enjoy a full day at your leisure.

Today's I-Time Tips Take an excursion to nearby Nara or explore more of Kyotos historic temples and shrines using your included subway and bus pass. (Breakfast)

KYOTO-FUSHIMI-INARI-SHRINE.jpg

Day 7: KYOTO–HIROSHIMA

• Travel by shinkansen (bullet train) to Hiroshima. • Upon arrival, visit Shukkei-en Garden, where natural landscapes are represented in miniature form. We’ve included a day pass to use the local tram system to help you get around! (Breakfast)

OSAKA-CASTLE-AND-KIMONO.jpg

Day 8: HIROSHIMA

• Your private guided sightseeing starts at Peace Memorial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see the Memorial Museum and Memorial Hall, which commemorate the lives lost in the WWII atomic bombing. • Travel by ferry to Miyajima Island. Here, visit Itsukush...

Day 9: HIROSHIMA–OSAKA

• Travel by shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka. • Your private guided sightseeing tour starts at Osaka Castle and the surrounding park. • Then explore Minami, the city’s famous entertainment district, encompassing the districts of Shinsaibashi and Namba and th...

Day 10: OSAKA

• Enjoy a full day at your leisure.

Today's I-Time Tips Return to Minami for further exploration or visit the Open-Air Museum of Japanese Farm Houses. Whatever you choose to do we’ve included a subway and bus pass to help you get around. (Breakfast)

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Day 11: OSAKA

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

(Breakfast)

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Dates & Availability

Price From $5,959
Price per day$542
Last Updated: 10/14/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Availability
25 Nov 2024
05 Dec 2024
$6,209
26 Nov 2024
06 Dec 2024
$6,279
27 Nov 2024
07 Dec 2024
$6,279
28 Nov 2024
08 Dec 2024
$6,289
29 Nov 2024
09 Dec 2024
$6,289
30 Nov 2024
10 Dec 2024
$6,219
01 Dec 2024
11 Dec 2024
$6,109
02 Dec 2024
12 Dec 2024
$6,029
03 Dec 2024
13 Dec 2024
$6,129
04 Dec 2024
14 Dec 2024
$6,129

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Globus.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Globus Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
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374
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98
Terrible
212
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Nov 2024

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Nov 2024

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Was not as great as previous Globus…

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Dennis Mooney

Nov 2024

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Wonderful trip Excellent tour director

Wonderful trip Excellent tour director

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Tour Operator

Globus

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Why Travel with Globus?

Perfectly Planned. Seriously Stress Free.

After 90-plus years of sharing the world with travelers, Globus has set the gold standard for award-winning touring across virtually every continent. Our global network of premiere travel partners, operations experts, and hospitality pros share one goal in mind—an exceptional travel experience no matter where we travel together.

Beyond the Guidebooks.

While Italy is synonymous with spectacular food, it is the close family connection that brings generations of tradition to the table. Globus goes beyond typical tours to introduce you to local legends and local experiences not found on just any map. Meet the Bonajuto family at Antica Dolceria—the oldest confectionery in Sicily. More than 150 years after the dolceria was founded by Francesco Bonajuto, the family still serves its heavenly chocolates in the same spot, while also serving as international ambassadors of Sicilian cuisine. Che dolce!

Don’t Miss the Must Sees.

Why stand in line to catch a fleeting glimpse of ancient ruins and remarkable historic sites? Globus gives you VIP access with an expert Local Guide to go deeper, get closer, and soak it all in. From the Parthenon to the Vatican museums, you’ll explore Europe’s most beloved locations without getting lost in a crowd or waiting in line. Don’t just file past masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David or get only a hurried look at the Crown Jewels in Edinburgh Castle. Experience Europe’s extraordinary sights—and historic sites—with the VIP access you deserve.

Dreams Realized.

The Colosseum. The Prado. Saint Paul’s Cathedral. Each Globus tour always includes the legendary landmarks, the major attractions, and the must-see sites. Going beyond the iconic exteriors, we lead you to the front of the line, straight through the door, and inside the walls of Europe’s most awe-inspiring places for an exclusive look behind the scenes. With priority access, we ensure you behold the sights you’ve long dreamed of—without waiting any longer!

Do as the Locals Do.

When in Rome—or London, Paris, or Barcelona—we arrange for you to do as the locals do, not just what the tourists do. In every itinerary, we include hands-on, authentic experiences for a true taste of a day in the life. Board a private water taxi through the Grand Canal of Venice, bake scones in an Irish farmhouse, or sample Geysir Schnapps in Iceland. By striking a golf ball at St. Andrews or dancing the Sirtaki while sipping ouzo, you truly get to step into someone else’s shoes and experience the world from an insider’s perspective.

Adventure, a la Carte

While Globus vacations get you up close and personal to the world's must-see sights and unforgettable experiences, we also know the value of spending time on your own to explore as you please. After all, travel is meant to be filled with memorable moments of your own with serendipitous surprises that can’t be planned or scheduled. We build free time into every itinerary so you can leisurely explore the beckoning bookstore, tempting café table, or whimsical window shopping that's schedule free. Don’t wait a lifetime for that once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s waiting just around the corner!

Pick your Passion.

Maybe you’re an art lover, a foodie, or a history buff. Perhaps you’re moved by music, art, cuisine, or theater. Or maybe making tracks in the great outdoors is more your speed. We offer a wide array of optional excursions and activities—tailored to a variety of fitness levels and interests—so you can customize your adventure with your own personal passions and preferences. Each Globus excursion and activity has been personally tested by us and handpicked to allow you to really get to know each destination. You never have to choose between included and optional excursions, since optional activities fit seamlessly with your vacation schedule!

A Friend in Every City.

Join us and a few of our friends in your next dream destination. After all, we’ve spent over 90 years making friends in virtually every city and country in the world who let us in on local secrets, like where to find the best scone, stein, or spumoni; the best people-watching table; or the best view of wide-open spaces. Every Globus vacation includes local experts who share the stories behind the sights and Local Favorites you won’t find in the guidebooks. Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides hail from the region through which you’re traveling. No one is more familiar, passionate, or eager to share insider knowledge than our local pros!


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Logistics

Accommodation

Hilton Tokyo

The Hilton Tokyo is the the perfect base for exploring the vibrant, energetic city of Tokyo. The hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Lobby and Marble Lounge. Rejuvenate in the 24-hour health club within the hotel and relax in the sauna or soothing whirlpool spa. Choose from seven tempting restaurants offering a range of delicious cuisine. Favorites include Dynasty authentic Chinese restaurant, and Musashino, featuring sushi, tempura and teppanyaki. For a relaxing evening drink, visit St. George's Bar.

Tokyo

Japan

6-2 Nishi-Shinjuku 6 Chome

Kyoto Century Hotel

Kyoto Century Hotel boasts a superb location just minutes away from JR Kyoto and subway stations, yet the modern classicial interior allows for an escape from the bustle of the city.

Kyoto

Japan

680, Higashi-Shiokoji-cho, Shimogyo-ku

Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel

Settle in at the Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel located in the heart of the city and close to its historic sites. The hotel's restaurants offer the finest and freshest cuisine, and the bar is a great place to gather with friends old and new. Relax and recharge your mind and body at Shine Spa for Sheraton or get in a workout at the pool and fitness center.

Hiroshima

Japan

12-1 Wakakusa-cho

Imperial Hotel Osaka

This stylish hotel is located on the banks of the Osaka River with easy access to all Osaka has to offer. Comfortable guestrooms offer all the standard amenities including a separate shower and bathtub. The hotel has an impressive collection of six restaurants for guests to sample, including Kyubi, an authentic sushi restaurant and Kamon which offers seafood and grilled steaks. Other amenities include a full fitness center and large swimming pool.

Osaka

Japan

1 8 50 Temabashi

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
globus-IAJ4

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