Japan Explorer

trip overview

Our Japan Explorer unveils hidden gems and iconic sights, from Tokyo’s bustle to Kanazawa’s calm and Takayama’s charm. Dive deep into Japan’s culture and landscapes on this unique journey for adventurers seeking to explore beyond the familiar.

It’s stylish. It’s meaningful. It’s unforgettable.

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 1

Arrive in Tokyo

Kon’nichiwa, and welcome to Tokyo! Upon arrival and after clearing customs, an English-speaking assistant will meet you to provide information, help validate your Japan Rail Pass, and assist with hotel check-in. Experience a seamless transfer to your hotel via the airport shuttle bus, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere from the get-go.

Once checked in, the remaining day is at your leisure.

3 Nights in Tokyo – you can choose your hotel and standards below

*Please note* Airport shuttles have limited schedules and serve select areas. If unavailable, an escort will guide you to TCAT for a taxi. Extra fees may apply for off-hour arrivals or certain airports.

Day 2

Tokyo Discovery

After breakfast, explore Tokyo’s marvels with an English-speaking guide. Marvel at the city from the Bunkyo Civic Center’s observatory, delve into history at the Edo Fukagawa Museum and wander the Asakusa district with its venerable Senso-ji Temple. End your day in the chic Ginza district, symbolising Tokyo’s modernity.

Breakfast included

*Please Note* To ensure competitive pricing, the included city tour of Tokyo and Kyoto (Day 4) is intimate but part of a small group tour with a maximum of 10 travellers. If you prefer a fully private experience with a personal guide in Tokyo and Kyoto, please speak to one of our staff members

Day 3

Tokyo at Leisure

After breakfast, consider exploring Tokyo’s diverse offerings at your leisure. Suggestions for a fulfilling day include experiencing the thrill of costume-themed Go-Karting through the city streets, embarking on a scenic day trip to the majestic Mt. Fuji, participating in a sushi-making class to learn the delicate art of sushi, or immersing yourself in the ancient traditions with a samurai experience. These suggestions are designed to help you discover Tokyo’s rich culture and vibrant lifestyle at your own pace. Please note that these activities are optional and not included in the itinerary, offering you the flexibility to tailor your day to your interests.

Breakfast included

Day 4

Tokyo – Kyoto

Enjoy breakfast in Tokyo, then prepare a small bag for an overnight stay, as your main luggage will be transferred separately to Kyoto. Travel light for convenience and to navigate the stations easily, especially since the Shinkansen has limited luggage space.

Make your own way to the station and board the Shinkansen for a 2.5-hour ride, embracing the shift from Tokyo’s buzz to Kyoto’s serenity. In Kyoto, join a small group tour (up to 10 people) to explore historic wonders: the golden Kinkaku-ji and peaceful Ryoan-ji’s Zen garden. Wander Gion’s geisha district, immersing yourself in tradition before checking into your hotel, where the evening is at your leisure.

Breakfast included

3 Nights in Kyoto – you can choose your hotel and standards below

Day 5

Day at Leisure & Nara and Fushimi

Today, embrace the diverse cultural offerings of Japan at your own pace. Comfort travellers have a full day at leisure to explore, relax, or engage in activities of their choice. Meanwhile, Deluxe travellers will embark on a private guided tour to Nara and Fushimi, delving into the rich historical tapestry of these areas.

Deluxe travellers will explore the majestic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha – one of the world’s largest bronze statues. This visit combines a tour of the Kasuga Shrine, renowned for its over 10,000 lanterns, which create an enchanting atmosphere. These iconic sites are nestled within Nara Park, known for its freely roaming deer and natural beauty.

After a day rich in exploration and discovery, Deluxe travellers will return to the hotel for an evening at leisure. Regardless of how you spend your day, it’s an opportunity to absorb Japan’s serene and historic essence.

Breakfast included

Day 6

Kyoto at Leisure

After breakfast in Kyoto, the day is yours to explore at your leisure, with several recommendations to enhance your experience. Consider marvelling at the breathtaking views from Kiyomizu-dera, an iconic temple distinct from previous visits. The Arashiyama district offers picturesque landscapes and a tranquil bamboo grove for a serene escape. Alternatively, take a trip to Uji with your rechargeable IC card to unveil the city’s renowned green tea and the historic Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique architecture. These suggestions are not included in the itinerary, allowing you the freedom to craft a day of personal exploration and discovery in Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry.

Breakfast included

Day 7

Kyoto - Kanazawa

Post-breakfast, prepare a small bag for two nights, as your main luggage will be transferred separately to Tokyo. Set off for Kanazawa, a city renowned for its well-preserved Edo period districts, art, and culture. Without assistance, travel by express train, embracing the scenic journey. In Kanazawa, explore the exquisite Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens, visit the bustling Omicho Market for local flavours, and admire traditional Kaga Yuzen silk kimonos at the Nagamachi Yuzenkan. This day introduces you to Kanazawa’s rich cultural fabric, showcasing its unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty.

Breakfast included

Day 8

Kanazawa - Shirakawa-go and Takayama

Begin your day with breakfast in Kanazawa, ready for a day of exploration at your own pace. We provide NOHI Bus tickets for a seamless journey from Kanazawa to the enchanting village of Shirakawa-go. Here, take your time to admire the iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses, recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites for their distinctive, steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow. After soaking in the village’s historical ambience, catch the next NOHI Bus to Takayama.

Upon arrival in Takayama, a 20-minute walk from the bus stop—guided by our clear maps and directions—will lead you to your Ryokan. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy leisurely. Consider exploring the old town, a beautifully preserved area known for its Edo-style streets, inviting sake breweries, and artisan shops. This day offers a perfect blend of guided independence and leisure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the charm of rural Japan at your own rhythm.

Breakfast included

Day 9

Takayama - Tokyo via Nagoya

After enjoying breakfast at your ryokan in Takayama, start with a 20-minute walk back to the station, navigating through Takayama’s quaint streets one last time using the clear maps and directions we’ve provided.

Board the train to Nagoya, where you can opt for a leisurely lunch and perhaps explore some of the city’s highlights, such as Nagoya Castle, SCMAGLEV, and Railway Park. Afterwards, continue your journey to Tokyo via the Shinkansen. This leg of your trip allows you to experience the efficiency and comfort of Japan’s rail network, seamlessly connecting the tranquil rural landscapes of Takayama with Tokyo’s dynamic energy.

This day combines self-guided exploration with the ease of planned transport, offering a smooth transition from the historic charm of Takayama back to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, marking the nearing end of your memorable journey through Japan.

Breakfast included

Overnight in Tokyo – you can choose your hotel and standards below

Day 10

Depart Japan

Enjoy your final breakfast in Japan before preparing for departure. Your journey concludes with an unassisted transfer to the airport, allowing you time to reflect on the myriad experiences that have defined your exploration of Japan. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Kyoto and the historic charm of Takayama, you’ve traversed a country rich in tradition, innovation, and natural beauty. As you head home, carry with you souvenirs and the memories of encounters and sights that have enriched your understanding and appreciation of this unique culture. Sayonara, Japan, until we meet again. Most flights will arrive in Australia the following morning, depending on your preferred airline.

Breakfast included

Frequently asked questions

Click and Trip is an Australian-owned online travel agency that helps independent travellers like you find and book alternatives to group tours. Skip the sales agent and book international holiday packages 24/7 via our online platform. Click here to learn more about our experience, credentials, and company values.

Private guided trips let you choose a package that suits your schedule, budget, and activity preference. Itineraries are set in advance though you choose the dates, travel companion(s), and comfort level.

Our fully inclusive holidays feature private drivers, local private guides, and private stays. We offer trips to suit every demographic imaginable, from couples to singles, retirees to families, and everyone in between.

Yes, infants and children are accepted to book this trip. Children under the age of 2 years are not charged a supplement when sharing a room with their parents. Three years and older are required to have their bed based on a triple share pricing.

Click and Trip is accredited by the International Air Transit Association (IATA 02366862), which sets international standards for airline ticket sales. We also have more than 30 years of combined experience in the tourism industry. To learn more about our qualified representatives, click here.

Our holiday packages were designed with you in mind. This is no place for mass-marketed travel tours! Instead, we’ve handpicked our suppliers and arranged comprehensive support to ensure a unique and memorable experience.

We make it easy for you to plan, book and enjoy your next adventure. Select an itinerary based on your travel preferences, identify the best time to travel using our interactive weather maps and choose your preferred airline. After receiving confirmation, you can access your account, download travel checklists, book visas, and more. Let us simplify your experience!

Our three travel styles — Essentials, Explorer, and Adventurer — include a range of travel experiences. We also offer standards from comfort (3*) to ultra-luxurious (5*). Visit our trip styles page here to find your perfect fit.

Absolutely! You’ll still receive the same inclusions as a couple, family, or small group, plus private local guides and drivers. Our suppliers always provide a safe travel environment regardless of group preference. Please note our all-inclusive pricing for accommodation, transportation, and guides is charged per travel group. Solo travellers are charged a single supplement fee.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade highly recommends travel insurance for all overseas travellers. Click and Trip supports this recommendation and provides information on available policies, how to buy as well as other pointers.

Travel insurance protects against unforeseen events that could prevent you from travelling. Please don’t delay! We encourage travellers to book a policy after receiving their personalised documents. Travel insurance is normally covered from the day of purchase. In other words, you’ll be protected from incidents prior to departure, depending on your coverage.

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover cancellation, medical and repatriation expenses. It should also include personal injury and accident, death, loss of personal baggage and money, as well as personal liability insurance.

Credit card companies and reciprocal medical coverage agreements do not always include comprehensive insurance. To learn more, talk to a recommended travel insurance provider or read our terms and conditions.

Our website was designed to be as user-friendly and automated as possible. Everything you need is easily accessible online, from en-route enquiries to booking terms and conditions. If you prefer to speak with someone, we have a call centre that can assist with any enquiries you may have about our trips or services. They can be reached on 1300 833 149. What’s more, our chat service is monitored daily, and we provide a WhatsApp number for existing bookings departing within 48 hours. Please note that we cannot take payments over the phone. Check out our Contact Us page to learn more.

Absolutely. Please indicate any special requests like bedding, dietary, or medical requirements on the confirmation page. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs. Some airlines require advanced notification of dietary requirements, while other hotels limit capacity for rooms or suites. Please note that we cannot meet every request though we’ll do our best to make a memorable trip.

Majority of the islands are not wheelchair accessible, which precludes wheelchair users and very limited-mobility travellers. Please get in touch before booking to check your exact mobility requirements. Travellers should be reasonably fit to participate in all our trips. As always, please consult your doctor for all health enquiries before booking.

“From prices” are the best prices available within a calendar year; they’re generally based on two people sharing a room in the low season. Prices may be subjected to additional fees. For example, high-season travel, solo travel or larger group/room size may exceed the “from price.” International flight pricing depends on your airline choice, date, and routing.

Once payment is authorised, you’ll receive an email receipt and account activation. You can view your booking on your account by clicking on the man icon in the top right corner of any Click and Trip page. My Account lets you make additional selections like booking seats on flights. You can also check visas, vaccinations, airport lounge passes or view travel checklists. Personalised travel documents are available for download 3–6 days after making your booking.

Japan Explorer

Your Boutique Adventure Through Japan’s Hidden Magic