Highlights of Japan

• Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (6 hotel, 1 traditional guesthouse)
• Travel by train, local bus, metro and ferry
• Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
• Cherry blossom and autumn colour departures

Japan has four very distinct seasons. Our aim has been to avoid the extremely cold winters and humid summers and settle for the more pleasant spring and autumn. In Tokyo, September and October are warm, maximum temperatures are 26C (79F) and minimum 12C (54F). September is likely to be the warmer of the two and rain is likely. April is cooler with temperatures possibly going as low as 7C (45F) with a high of 17C (63F). Kyoto is very similar climatically to Tokyo but the higher up into the mountains we venture, the colder it will become with nights being especially cold, particularly in March and November.

This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate) and encompasses the main cultural highlights of Japan. For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.  

Itinerary: Most of the trip involves sightseeing on foot and using public transport. We walk mostly in cities and towns; although not strenuous, the amount of walking each day is considerable and fast paced (good comfortable walking shoes are required). We visit some temples and shrines, most of which are built on hillsides. This will mean ascending and descending lots of steps, so a good level of fitness is essential.

Travelling with us in Japan: We rely on the country’s world-renowned public transportation network, making our Japan trips unique compared with our tours in other destinations, in which we generally use private transportation. Public transport here is accessible, clean and punctual. It’s also intrinsically woven into the local way of life, which is why we encourage travellers to embrace this way of travelling in Japan.

On this trip, all transport is by public transport, mainly using the extremely efficient train system. Therefore, it is essential all group members are punctual to ensure we do not miss any of the scheduled services. Some of the distances covered are long but trains are very comfortable, which makes the journey pleasant.

As Japanese trains usually have little room for storing large bags, there are two times when we need to pack an overnight bag, as noted on the daily itinerary. Also see the Essential Equipment section for more information. It’s essential you pack light, as you need to carry your luggage through train stations and busy areas.

Flexibility: The order of activities in Tokyo and Kyoto may change depending on the weather conditions and other factors. Your tour leader will provide full details of the schedule during the initial trip briefing.

Before you go: We recommend downloading the Uber or GO Taxi apps before you arrive, as both are widely used in Japan. The Google Translate app will also be useful.