Location is an approximation

Japan

Unique culture
Delicious street food
Ancient temples, Tokyo, Osaka...

 
 

An invitation to the captivating land of Japan

Welcome to Japan, a land where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with cutting-edge modernity, creating an enchanting tapestry of cultural richness and innovation. Nestled in the heart of East Asia, Japan beckons travellers with its unique allure, offering a captivating fusion of historic wonders and dynamic urban landscapes.
 
 

Exploring Tokyo

We start our Japanese odyssey here in Tokyo - the bustling capital of Japan. Once a small town, Tokyo has now grown into one of the world’s largest cities. On our first full day, a guided city tour paints for us an overview of this iconic metropolis. We visit the Asakusa Kannon Temple, the oldest temple in Japan and pass by the Imperial Palace, the main residence of the Emperor of Japan. At the Sumida River Bank we appreciate a view of the panoramic skyline of this spectacular city.

As an interesting addition for this year, an authentic Japanese tea ceremony is included in the cost during our time in Tokyo.  

Please note that the nature of the sites we visit means there is regular walking involved in the Japan tour. 

Mount Fuji: Japan's timeless symbol

Mount Fuji stands majestically among vistas of lush landscapes and pristine lakes. Our boat trip on the volcanic Lake Ashi gives us the opportunity to glimpse this, Japan’s tallest mountain. Next we take the state-of-the-art cable car known as the 'Hakone Ropeway’ to yet more scenes of this breath-taking mountain, which although captured by artists through the centuries, are most fully appreciated in person.
 
 
 
 
 

Osaka: the street food capital of Japan

With its modern architecture, bustling markets, underground shopping malls and a deep cultural tapestry, Osaka is renowned for its friendly locals who embrace a warm and open-hearted hospitality. Known as the 'Nation's Kitchen', Osaka is a culinary haven offering a diverse array of street foods including local specialities such as the world-renowned takoyaki (octopus).

Kyoto: ancient temples and Nijo Castle

From Osaka, we head out to visit Kyoto, once the capital of Japan where ancient temples whisper tales of bygone eras. Here we visit the impressive Nijo Castle: a UNESCO World Heritage site that embodies the elegance and history of Japan. Built in the 17th century, the castle complex is a masterpiece of architecture and design, surrounded by stunning gardens.
 
 
 
 
 

Carefully selected welcoming hotels

In the cities we have opted for international hotels which are located close to transport networks to give us easy access around the cities. We also spend a night in the Fuji area. Our accommodation will be in three-star hotels, with breakfasts provided each day and evening meals on five days.

On the other evenings we have chosen not to include an evening meal, as eating out is a key part of Japanese culture. We can choose our own meal to experience the local cuisine. 

In the evenings we will meet together for a time of singing and a Bible talk. 
"Thank you for allowing me to fulfil my dream of exploring this amazing country."
Philip
 

Itinerary

 
Below is the provisional itinerary for the trip. The letters in brackets indicate B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
 
Day #1
Depart UK
Day #2
Arrive in Tokyo
Day #3
Tokyo City Tour including a visit to the Asakusa Kannon Temple. We enjoy an authentic Japanese tea ceremony and also visit the Shinjuku Gyoen gardens. (B/-/D)
Day #4
Free Day in Tokyo. (B/-/-)
Day #5
We depart for Hakone where we take a boat trip on Lake Ashi and visit the Hakone Ropeway (cable car). We stay in a hotel locally. (B/-/D)
Day #6
We make a quick visit to see Oshino Hakkai this morning, a tranquil site with views of Mount Fuji, before travelling by bullet train to Osaka. When we reach Osaka, we will visit the Osaka castle as well as the delicious street food markets. (B/-/D)
Day #7
Today we head to the Arashiyama bamboo forest as well as the Okochi Sanso Gardens. Here there are various options including rowing boat hire. (B/-/D)
Day #8
Today we head to Kyoto. We will visit the Nijo Castle and Kinjakuji temple. We will also go to the Nishiki indoor street market. (B/-/D)
Day #9
Free Day. (B/-/-)
Day #10
Free Day. (B/-/-)
Day #11
We have free time before travelling to the airport later in the day for our flight, which leaves late this evening. (B/-/-)
Day #12
Arrive back in UK

Dates/Prices

The cost includes indirect flights with Emirates from London to Tokyo, returning from Osaka. It also includes airport taxes and charges, three-star hotel accommodation in en-suite rooms for two. It includes breakfasts each day plus evening meals on 5 days. It also includes coach transport for the excursions, bullet train tickets to Osaka plus entrance fees and guide, except on free days.

British citizens do not require a visa. For other nationalities or status, please check with your embassy.

The deposit is £150 if booking more than two months in advance (plus single room supplement, if applicable).

For flight times, click 'View/Book'.

For details of independent travel please scroll to the bottom of this page.

For JP26 , the Oak Hall flights are now fully booked, but if you are able to arrange your own flights or alternative travel, we would be delighted for you to join us! As you click through the booking process, there will be an option to select independent travel; this removes the cost of the Oak Hall flights before you complete your booking. If you have any questions as you book, we are on hand to help!

Availability Update:
JP26: 08.04.25 There is one place for a female for independent travel (i.e. without flights included)
 
  TripDatesPrice
JP26 - £3298View/Book ->
JP41 - £3428New!View/Book ->
JP42 - £3298View/Book ->
Availability Key:
Independent Travel Remaining
Full but waiting list available
Place may be available on request
Places still available
A few places still available
 

Independent Travel

You can select to travel independently during the booking process (NB we are unable to book one way flights or change the date of travel). Please note that we fly to Tokyo Haneda on the way out and we fly home from Osaka Kansai (there is more than one airport in both Tokyo and Osaka).

Click on 'View/Book' above to see the independent discount. The cost for the optional airport transfer is shown later in the booking process.

The airport transfer is booked to coincide with the group flights. Please note that the driver would not be able to wait if you miss the transfer. We would suggest booking a flight that arrives at least 2 hours before the group flight in case of any delays to your flight.

On the last day, please book a flight which departs after the group flight if you wish to use the airport transfer.

If you are travelling independently but someone else in your party will use the group flights, please make separate bookings.

If there are any changes to the holiday, we would not be able to cover the cost of changes to your independent flights. We would therefore recommend booking fully flexible tickets or joining the holiday using our flights.