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Tour · Wendy Wu Tours · 13 nights

Japan Explorer

  • Domestic transportation and 3-4 star accommodation included
  • Guided tours and entrance fees to key sights
  • Flexibility to uncover your own favourite neighbourhoods and hidden gems
From
$13,090 pp twin share
Was $13,990 pp
$15,780 pp solo share
13 nights
Enquire
Departs 23 March 2027 Returns 12 December 2028
Duration13 nights
OperatorWendy Wu Tours
StyleTour
HighlightDiscover Japan's iconic cultural highlights and natural wonders at a relaxed pace, with the freedom to explore on your own
Explore Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Hiroshima. Experience natural highlights like Mount Fuji and Iya Gorge. Enjoy immersive local experiences and regular leisure time

This tour is ideal for travellers who want the perfect balance between expertly guided experiences and the freedom to explore selected cities at their own pace. It combines Japan's iconic cultural highlights with immersive local experiences and regular leisure time, making it particularly suited to those who prefer a slower pace. Discover key destinations including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Hiroshima, alongside natural highlights such as Mount Fuji, Iya Gorge and Nikko, while enjoying the flexibility to uncover your own favourite neighbourhoods, cafés and hidden gems.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
23 March 2027
Returns 12 December 2028
Returns
12 December 2028
Duration
13 nights
From pp twin share
$13,090 pp
Was $13,990 pp
From pp solo cabin
$15,780 pp
  • 23 Mar 2027 - 06 Apr 2027
    Land only: from $12,890 pp twin share / $15,580 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $14,090 pp twin share / $16,780 pp sole use *
  • 06 Apr 2027 - 20 Apr 2027
    Land only: from $11,890 pp twin share / $14,580 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $13,090 pp twin share / $15,780 pp sole use *
  • 17 Nov 2027 - 01 Dec 2027
    Land only: from $12,490 pp twin share / $15,180 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $13,690 pp twin share / $16,380 pp sole use *
  • 24 Nov 2027 - 08 Dec 2027
    Land only: from $12,490 pp twin share / $15,180 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $13,690 pp twin share / $16,380 pp sole use *
  • 21 Mar 2028 - 04 Apr 2028
    Land only: from $13,490 pp twin share / $16,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $14,690 pp twin share / $17,680 pp sole use *
  • 04 Apr 2028 - 18 Apr 2028
    Land only: from $12,490 pp twin share / $15,480 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $13,690 pp twin share / $16,680 pp sole use *
  • 21 Nov 2028 - 05 Dec 2028
    Land only: from $12,890 pp twin share / $15,880 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,080 pp sole use *
  • 28 Nov 2028 - 12 Dec 2028
    Land only: from $12,890 pp twin share / $15,880 pp sole use
    Flight inclusive: from $14,090 pp twin share / $17,080 pp sole use *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice. Land only prices exclude international flights.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Fly to Osaka

    Days 1–2

    Fly overnight to the lively, fast-paced city of Osaka! Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure to start soaking up the local culture.

  2. 3

    Discover Nara

    Head to the old capital of Nara, visit Todai-ji Temple and the Great Buddha of Nara and the bowing deer’s who are the messengers of the Japanese gods. Proceed back to Osaka for lunch and take an Osaka central walking cultural tour to glimpse the lifestyle of the Osaka people.

  3. 4

    At leisure Osaka

    Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure in the dynamic city of Osaka. Whether you choose to revisit favourite sights from your cultural walking tour or venture out to discover new corners of the city, there is plenty to see and experience. From bustling shopping districts to historic landmarks and delicious local cuisine.

  4. 5

    Sake & Samurai

    Begin the day with a tasting of the world-renowned Kikumasamune sake. Then journey to Himeji to enjoy a delicious local lunch before visiting the iconic Himeji Castle, Japan's finest surviving feudal castle. Continue to the picturesque city of Kurashiki, where you'll wander through beautifully preserved samurai and merchant quarters dating back to the Edo period. End the day with a relaxing dinner at your hotel in Takamatsu.

  5. 6

    IYA Gorge

    Experience the beauty of Ritsurin Garden, a masterpiece perfected over 185 years, featuring six tranquil ponds set against a stunning mountain backdrop. Journey into the remote Iya Gorge to admire its dramatic scenery, cross the iconic vine bridge, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise through the gorge. Then unwind at historic Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts, before continuing to Matsuyama for an overnight stay.

  6. 7

    Matsuyama - Hiroshima

    Begin your day with a visit to Iwaya Temple, one of the sacred temples on the renowned Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Continue to Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan's twelve original surviving castles, where you can admire its rich history and panoramic views. Next, travel along the spectacular Shimanami Kaido, a scenic route spanning the Seto Inland Sea. Enjoy a refreshing open-sea boat cruise while taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery before continuing your journey to Hiroshima.

  7. 8

    Hiroshima & Miyajima

    Start the day with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum, gaining insight into Japan’s perspective on this significant chapter of history. After lunch in central Hiroshima, continue to the sacred island of Miyajima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its iconic giant torii gate, which appears to float gracefully on the water.

  8. 9

    Kyoto

    Travel to Kyoto aboard Japan’s famous bullet train and enjoy a traditional hotpot lunch upon arrival. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Japan’s ancient capital with a tea ceremony at a traditional tea house, followed by a visit to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Later, enjoy free time exploring the historic streets of Gion, where you may catch a glimpse of a maiko or geisha amidst the district’s timeless charm.

  9. 10

    At leisure Kyoto

    Enjoy a day at leisure in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, with time to explore its serene temples, tranquil gardens, and historic neighbourhoods at your own pace. Alternatively, take advantage of Kyoto’s close proximity to Osaka and set out on an independent day trip for shopping and city exploration.

  10. 11

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

    Continue your Kyoto journey with visits to Tenryu-ji Temple and the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where soaring bamboo creates a serene natural sanctuary. Proceed to Ryoan-ji Temple, famed for its Zen rock garden, before visiting the magnificent Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a UNESCO World Heritage Site shimmering in gold. Enjoy a local Kyoto-style lunch before boarding the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train and continuing to the Mt Fuji region for your next stage of discovery.

  11. 12

    Mt Fuji - Tokyo

    Explore the eastern side of Mount Fuji with a visit to the serene springs of Oshino Hakkai. Depending on conditions, either ascend to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji for panoramic alpine views, or travel to Iyashi no Sato Nenba to experience a beautifully restored traditional village set against the mountain backdrop. Continue to a striking kimono display museum before proceeding to Tokyo for the next stage of your journey.

  12. 13

    Nikko

    Based in the Nikko Sanzan, the sacred three mountains of Nikko, visit the ornate mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, at Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Enjoy a local yuba-based lunch before continuing to “Little Edo,” the historic town of Kanuma or surrounding Edo-style district, where beautifully preserved warehouse streets and traditional festival floats evoke Japan’s rich heritage.

  13. 14

    Tokyo

    Enjoy an immersive sumo experience, including a morning training session if available, or an alternative sumo demonstration. Later, visit the iconic Shibuya Crossing, where you can take in the energy of one of the world’s busiest intersections. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Tokyo at your own pace. Conclude the day with a dinner cruise.

  14. 15

    Fly Tokyo to Australia

    Days 15–16

    Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, arriving home the same or following day.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • International flights and current taxes (excluded if a land only option is selected).
  • Domestic transportation.
  • 3+ – 4 star accommodation.
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees.
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 16 days and 13 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 23 Mar 2027 and 12 Dec 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
Ready to lock in?

Book this tour

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this tour
The fine print

Terms & conditions

Read the operator’s full booking conditions
  • Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2026. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
  • Tipping is generally not part of the culture in Japan; however, you may wish to tip your National Escort at your discretion.
  • Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
  • Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request
  • Please note: cherry blossoms & autumn leaves are weather dependent and it is not guaranteed that they will be in bloom at the time of your arrival.
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Travel at 60 Social Getaways

Travel further when you're not travelling alone

Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

Open to solo travellers too. Many of our travellers book on their own and find their feet quickly in a friendly group of like-minded Australians. Reduced single-supplement options are available on most departures — ask one of our consultants and we'll talk you through what's offered on this trip.

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Want to talk it through? Call 1300 414 198 7 days a week, Queensland time, and one of our consultants will walk you through it.

— The team at Travel at 60

A Travel at 60 host with travellers on a Social Getaway
From (twin) $13,090 pp
From (solo) $15,780 pp
Enquire