Ancient & Modern Japan

Transport

Søk & reserver billetter til buss, tog og ferger. Sjekk priser på alle våre mange transport alternativer og sjekk ut unik buss & tog pass over hele verden

SJEKK TRANSPORTPRISER

Transfer

Søk & reserver transfers over hele verden. Unn deg litt komfort ved ankomst og reserver smidig og trygg transport til ditt bestemmelsessted med våre mange samarbeidspartnere over hele verden →

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Cruise & seiling

Søk & reserver cruise og seile opplevelser over hele verden. Opplev verden fra dekket på at av våre mange alternativ. Her finner du alt fra verdens ikoniske elver, seile opplevelser, ekspedisjonscruise og tradisjonelle cruise →

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Leiebil

Få friheten og muligheten til å utforske din drømmereise i ditt eget tempo. Her finner du gunstige priser om du er på forretningsreise, planlegger en «road trip» i USA, Australia og Afrika eller bare trenger egnet transport i en kortere periode

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Fly & Drive

Friheten med å utforske verden på egenhånd passer utmerket for en rekke reisemål i verden. Med vårt verktøy kan du lett finne de beste leiebilløsninger, bobilutleie og til og med leie av motorsykkel mo du vil gjennomføre noen av de legendariske veistrekningene i verden. ¨ Benytt deg av vårt interaktive kart og sett sammen den perfekte rundreisen.

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Tema & Gruppereiser

Oppdag vår spennende verden med gruppe og temareiser til over 177 land og territorier. Oppdag populære og obskure reisemål, bisarre festivaler, dyreopplevelser og aktive reiser. Her finner du reiseforslag for alle interesser og ønsker med bryllupsreiser, sol & bad til ukjente strender og ekstreme ekspedisjoner for den eventyrlystne eller for familien. Se alle våre reiser her

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Utflukter

Oppdag ukjente sider i noen av verdens mest kjente byer og utforsk nye steder. Bli med oss og oppdag nye sider i kanskje kjente byer. Vi gir deg alt fra fantastiske matopplevelser og gatekunst til ikoniske landemerker og tradisjonelle utflukter. Se alle våre utflukter →

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Hotel & Overnatting

Finn ditt favoritt hotell eller leilighet over hele verden. Vi gir deg muligheten til å bestille ditt drømmeopphold og velg mellom en mengde ulike leverandører for å garantere best mulig tilgang og pris. Bestill ditt bosted →

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Skreddersy din reise

Vi er alle individualister og av og til passer det best å utforske verden i eget tempo. Her finner du forslag til bryllupsreiser, eksotiske strender og ukjente tropiske øyer, dykkereiser og tusenvis av skreddersydde reiseforslag. Se alle reiseforslagene →

Eventbilletter

Planlegg reisen og få med deg konserter, sportsarrangement og inngangsbilletter. Unngå å miste ditt favoritt band på konsert eller lange køer til inngang på severdigheter. Bestill heller dine billetter på forhånd. Bestill billetter her →

Annon Informasjon

Enhver reise krever nøye planlegging og vi har samlet en del informasjon som kan gjøre reiseforberedelsene litt enklere. Har du en riktig forsikring til den reisen og formålet med reisen dekker? Har du sjekket visumregler?

Itinerary

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Day 1: Start Kyoto
The trip starts in Kyoto, an atmospheric city amid beautiful hills. We gather for the first time at the hotel and enjoy a welcome briefing this evening, a good chance to ask any questions you may have about the adventure ahead. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 2: Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji temple
With more than 2,000 temples, shrines and gardens, Kyoto is a treasure house of Japanese heritage and undoubtedly one of the most fascinating cities in Asia. Unlike many other Japanese towns, it escaped the ravages of both the Second World War and modern urban development, keeping intact much of the spirit and architecture of traditional Japan. Today, we have an introductory tour of the city. Starting with a visit to the impressive Nijo castle, built in 1603 as a residence for the Tokugawa shoguns, before moving onto the Golden Temple of Kinkaku-ji, built in 1397 as a summer villa for the shogun Yoshimitsu Ashikaga and immortalised in Mishima Yukio’s novel, The Golden Pavilion. We then visit the Ryoan-ji temple, home to the most famous rock garden in Japan. Afterwards, we head back to central Kyoto. Those who wish may opt to take a leisurely late lunch at one of the local restaurants in the area, relax back at the hotel or discover Kyoto at your own leisure. You may like to take a stroll around Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's Kitchen, which specialises in all things food related and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 3: Day trip to Nara, ancient capital of Japan. Visit impressive Unesco temples including Todai-ji. Return to Kyoto; visit Fushimi Inari Taisha and visit historic Gion
Today we make a day trip to the ancient capital of Japan, Nara (approximately one hour each way). With eight Unesco World Heritage sites, it's second only to Kyoto as a repository of Japan's cultural legacy. Our walking tour includes a visit to the best known temples and shrines, including the Todai-ji Great Buddha temple. Built in 752 by Emperor Shomu, this 49ft (15m) tall bronze Buddha is housed in what is reputed to be the largest wooden building in the world. We also spend time in the Nara Koen Park, home to large numbers of overfed and slightly unruly deer, and visit the attractive Kasuga Shinto shrine. Later in the afternoon, we travel back to Kyoto and stop at the Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Fushimi Inari is the most important of several thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. Foxes are thought to be Inari's messengers, resulting in many fox statues across the shrine grounds. As we head towards early evening, we can walk around Gion, the most famous geisha district in Kyoto. Packed with bars, restaurants and traditional teahouses, Gion is most atmospheric in the early evening, when the lanterns are lit. At this time, we may also see an apprentice geisha on the way to an appointment, though it's rare to see one. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 4: Free day in Kyoto; relax in one of the many Zen gardens, walk the popular Philosopher’s Path or experience a traditional tea ceremony
Today is free for individual sightseeing – there’s plenty to see and do in Kyoto. Kyoto is particularly rich in temples and gardens, and you can spend the day in this area, perhaps starting at the Silver Pavilion, then strolling along the tree-lined canal known as the Philosopher’s Path and finishing at the lovely Zen gardens of Nanzen-ji. Another day trip to consider is Arashiyama, a pleasant tourist district in the western outskirts of the city. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy the bamboo forest. Other notable sites are Okochi Sanso Villa (the one-time home and gardens of actor Okochi Denjiro) and the scenic Togetsukyo ridge, a wooden construction spanning the Katsura River. Arashiyama is particularly popular during the cherry blossom and autumn colour seasons. If you’re looking for souvenirs, the Teramachi covered market has plenty on offer, including Japanese woodblock prints, handmade knives, and trendy J-fashion clothing. Lastly, consider a peaceful evening walk along the Kamo River, starting at the Sanjo Bridge and finishing at the Shijo Bridge, then back along the narrow little street of Pontocho, an atmospheric dining alley that comes alive at night. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 5: Day trip to Hiroshima; visit Peace Memorial Park and the pretty island of Miyajima
Today is our first experience of the shinkansen (bullet train) as we speed to Hiroshima for the day (approximately two hours each way). Once in Hiroshima, we spend time at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, both monuments to the fateful day in August 1945 when the city was struck by the first wartime use of the atomic bomb. In the park, there’s a symbolic flame that will only be extinguished when the last nuclear weapon on Earth has been destroyed. In the afternoon, we make a short excursion by local tram and ferry to the beautiful island of Miyajima; home to the floating torii (Shinto gate) of the Itsukushima Shrine. At high tide, when set against the backdrop of Mount Misen, this torii makes one of the most beautiful and photogenic sights in Japan. Please note, the floating torii is currently undergoing renovation works, but we still recommend a visit to this enchanting island as part of the day trip to Hiroshima. We depart Hiroshima late afternoon, arriving at our Kyoto hotel in the evening. Accommodation: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (or similar)
Day 6: Travel from Kyoto to Takayama, a traditional old town set amid the Japanese Alps; visit the Hida Folk Village
Travelling by train through forested valleys, we make our way this morning to the peaceful and attractive old town of Takayama (approximately four hours) in the centre of the majestic Hida Mountains. We spend two nights here and have plenty of time to appreciate the charm and ambience of this delightful place. In the afternoon, we visit Hida Folk Village, an interesting outdoor museum of traditional rural architecture in pleasant, landscaped gardens, a short walk from our accommodation. We stay in a traditional Japanese accommodation where we can experience the Japanese lifestyle and hospitality (please refer to the accommodation section for more information). Accommodation: We use a variety of ryokans in Takayama
Day 7: Orientation tour in Takayama and free day to explore the peaceful shrines and temples
With more than a dozen museums and galleries, and several well-kept temples and parks, there are plenty of ways to spend a relaxing day in Takayama. We start with a short orientation tour around the morning market, held daily along the banks of the Miyagawa River in the centre of town. Here, amid friendly farmers with their familiar (and not so familiar) agricultural produce, it is possible to find interesting souvenirs. Not so far away, and of particular interest, is the well-preserved Sanmachi district, a collection of three Edo-era streets, where wooden shops, restaurants and sake breweries give the area a medieval feel. Treat yourself to a local lunch and sake tasting on these streets, then stop at the numerous lacquer ware and antique shops. For an insight into the life of medieval Japanese officials and the way they dealt (often not so compassionately) with those in their charge, visit the old Government House of Takayama-jinya. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town at your own pace: we recommend a stroll along the temple-lined path called the Higashiyama Walkway and visit the several temples and attractions created by the medieval warlord, Kanamori Nagachika (1524-1600), who longed for Kyoto. Accommodation: We use a variety of ryokans in Takayama
Day 8: On to the medieval village of Tsumago; short leisurely walk on the Nakasendo trail; train to Matsumoto
Today we travel by express and local trains to the historic castle town of Matsumoto (approximately four hours). En route, we visit the medieval village of Tsumago, which has changed little from its heyday as a post town in the Edo period. This is the best preserved of the many staging posts along the old Nakasendo Way, which fulfils the same role it did in centuries past: offering food and refuge to travellers. Those who wish can join the leader for a one-hour walk through peaceful forest trails, starting by the Odaki and Medaki waterfalls and finishing in Tsumago. We reach Matsumoto late afternoon, where we have time to relax and perhaps take a leisurely stroll after dinner to see the impressive castle by night. Accommodation: Dormy Inn Matsumoto (or similar)
Day 9: Visit Matsumoto Castle and travel by train to the spa town of Yudanaka; soak in a hot spring
This morning we visit the impressive Matsumoto Castle. Founded in 1504, this castle, otherwise known as Crow Castle due to its black colour, is one of the two best preserved in Japan, most others having been destroyed following the Meiji Restoration. Its imposing six-storey tower has been designated a national treasure. Please note, the castle preserves its original interior and structure, with very tall steps and steep staircases, which some might find difficult to ascend and descend. We return to Matsumoto train station for our afternoon journey (approximately three hours) to the spa town of Yudanaka, which has some fantastic natural hot springs, where we spend a night in another Japanese-style accommodation. Accommodation: Biyu no Yado (or similar)
Day 10: See the much-loved snow monkeys before travelling by train to Tokyo; evening orientation tour
As well as being home to some of the best hot springs in Japan, the small spa-town of Yudanaka is mainly famous for being the gateway to the Jigokudani Onsen or Snow Monkey Park. Here, the indigenous macaque monkeys have discovered the benefits of descending from the hills to soak and play in hot baths. The sight is most spectacular in winter, when snow covers the grounds and the hot steam creates amazing visual effects but (despite the name) the snow monkeys actually inhabit the area year-round. To reach the park, we walk for approximately 25 minutes on an easy forest trail and we have approximately one-hour to admire and photograph these entertaining creatures. No visit to Japan would be complete without a trip to Tokyo. This afternoon, we travel from Yudanaka to the capital by bullet train (approximately four hours), arriving in the early evening. On arrival in Tokyo, we'll transfer to our hotel and start exploring the bright lights of the big city at night. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)
Day 11: Optional trip to Hakone or to the lovely seaside town of Kamakura
If you wish to see more of this wonderful country, today is the last day of your Japan Rail Pass, entitling you to free train journeys to many destinations. A popular daytrip from Tokyo is Hakone, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, less than 1hr 30min away by train. Home to hot springs, natural beauty and Mount Fuji views, Hakone also encompasses Lake Ashi, which can be toured by boat. Another blissful escape is the coastal town of Kamakura, offering numerous temples, shrines, historical monuments and panoramic hiking trails. If you don’t want to leave Tokyo, soak up the atmosphere of this truly astounding city. While being perhaps the most energetic and futuristic capital in the world, Tokyo remains a remarkably friendly, safe, manageable and delightful place to visit. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)
Day 12: A full-day city tour of Tokyo, including the Senso-ji Temple
Today we have a guided tour of Tokyo. Making use of the highly efficient tube system, we can visit some of the main attractions including the lively Senso-ji Temple in the old entertainment district of Asakusa and Ueno (depending on season). We will also visit a park or garden, which become especially spectacular during cherry blossom and autumn season. There is also free time to discover other attractions at your own pace. For those with a head for heights, we recommend an optional visit to the Skytree Tower for views of the city. At 2,080ft (634m), it is the tallest building in Japan and the one of the tallest structures in the world. In the evening, the possibilities for entertainment are almost limitless with the Tokyo nightlife as exciting as anywhere in Asia. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)
Day 13: Free day for further exploration; optional karaoke farewell night
Today has been left free for further individual exploration of Tokyo. We recommend visiting the Meiji Shrine; surrounded by tranquil forest. From there, cross over to the upscale Omotesando street, sometimes called the Champs Elysee of Tokyo. If you’re interested in culture or shopping, there are limitless opportunities with districts such as Ginza, known for its exclusive stores, Shibuya, home to the busiest intersection in the world, and Shinjuku, the hub of Tokyo nightlife. For a lovely day trip, the historic seaside town of Kamakura is 90 minutes away by train, and highlights include a  giant outdoor Buddha and the nearby island of Enoshima. Your leader can advise how best to maximise your free day in Tokyo. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel (or similar)
Day 14: End Tokyo
Our Japanese adventure comes to end. Alternatively, if you’d like a bit more time to explore this energetic city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Important Information

The trip destination

Accommodation: 13 Classic nights (10 hotel, 3 traditional Japanese ryokans/minshukus)
Sightseeing on foot and two short day walks
Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
Travel by train, bus, metro, ferry and private minibus
Special cherry blossom and autumn colours departures

Food

All breakfasts and three dinners are included. Japanese cuisine is usually a highlight of any Japan trip. It is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes usually prepared with seasonal ingredients. Seafood is common, and usually comes grilled or deep fried. Sushi and sashimi aside, other staple dishes include soba or udon noodles, sukiyaki (meat, fish and vegetables cooked in broth) and yakiniku (grilled meat). The included dinners are usually taken at traditional guesthouses, which will serve a kaiseki-style dinner, a multi-course meal including a dozen tiny dishes prepared with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. When food is not included, your leader can always recommend the best local eateries and arrange group meals for a full immersion in the varied and excellent local cuisine. Please note, in Japan the availability of certain specialised products for restricted diets (eg gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan) is minimal or non-existent. The group meals arranged by the tour leader will be in traditional eateries where the choices of vegan dishes may be limited to simple salads or boiled rice. However, several vegan restaurants are available in Kyoto and Tokyo. It may be a good idea to bring some foodstuffs with you that you normally consume, or to supplement meals with snacks purchased in the local convenience stores. Please advise us at time of booking you have any specific dietary requirements.

Weather

Japan has four very distinct seasons. We avoid the extremely cold winters and humid summers and settle for the more pleasant climes of 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 there is a likelihood of rain. 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.

Is this trip for you?

This trip has been rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). 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.

Walking profile: We mostly walk in cities and towns; although not strenuous, the amount of walking each day is considerable and fast-paced (we recommend comfortable walking shoes). We also visit a lot of temples and shrines, most of which are built on hillsides. This means ascending and descending lots of steps, so good fitness levels are essential.

Transport: We travel on public transport and mainly trains, which are extremely efficient. Therefore, it is essential all group members are punctual to ensure we do not miss any of the services. Some of the distances covered are long, but trains are very comfortable making the journey pleasant. As Japanese trains usually have little room for storing bags, we only carry our backpack for the day/overnight bag for the two nights in Takayama and one night in Yudanaka. A courier service transfers one piece of baggage per person from Kyoto to Matsumoto and then to Tokyo.

Itinerary flexibility: The order of activities may change depending on the weather conditions and other factors. Your tour leader will provide full details of the schedule during the welcome briefing.

sdsd AVAILABLE DATES	PRICE (1 ADULT)	PRICE (1 CHILDREN)	Single room supplement	TRAVEL STATUS
Sun, 17 Nov 2024 / Sat, 30 Nov 2024	NOK 69 705 NOK 62 740	On request	NOK 10 680	Available
Sun, 09 Mar 2025 / Sat, 22 Mar 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	Available
Mon, 10 Mar 2025 / Sun, 23 Mar 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 62 885	On request	Not available	Available
Thu, 13 Mar 2025 / Wed, 26 Mar 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 75 685	On request	NOK 13 315	Available
Mon, 17 Mar 2025 / Sun, 30 Mar 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 67 725	On request	NOK 13 315	Available
Sun, 23 Mar 2025 / Sat, 05 Apr 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 67 725	On request	Not available	Available
Thu, 27 Mar 2025 / Wed, 09 Apr 2025	NOK 82 520	On request	Not available	Available
Mon, 31 Mar 2025 / Sun, 13 Apr 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 71 710	On request	Not available	Available
Sun, 06 Apr 2025 / Sat, 19 Apr 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 75 685	On request	NOK 13 315	Available
Mon, 07 Apr 2025 / Sun, 20 Apr 2025	NOK 79 670	On request	NOK 13 315	Available
Sun, 13 Apr 2025 / Sat, 26 Apr 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 66 585	On request	Not available	Available
Sun, 11 May 2025 / Sat, 24 May 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	Available
Sat, 21 Jun 2025 / Fri, 04 Jul 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	Available
Sun, 14 Sep 2025 / Sat, 27 Sep 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	Available
Sun, 28 Sep 2025 / Sat, 11 Oct 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	Available
Sun, 05 Oct 2025 / Sat, 18 Oct 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	Not available	Available
Sun, 12 Oct 2025 / Sat, 25 Oct 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	Not available	Available
Sun, 26 Oct 2025 / Sat, 08 Nov 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	Not available	Available
Sun, 02 Nov 2025 / Sat, 15 Nov 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	NOK 11 750	Available
Sun, 09 Nov 2025 / Sat, 22 Nov 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	NOK 11 750	Available

AVAILABLE DATES	PRICE (1 ADULT)	PRICE (1 CHILDREN)	SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT	TRAVEL STATUS
Sun, 17 Nov 2024 / Sat, 30 Nov 2024	NOK 69 705 NOK 62 740	On request	NOK 10 680	On request
Sun, 09 Mar 2025 / Sat, 22 Mar 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	On request
Mon, 10 Mar 2025 / Sun, 23 Mar 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 62 885	On request	Not available	On request
Thu, 13 Mar 2025 / Wed, 26 Mar 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 75 685	On request	NOK 13 315	On request
Mon, 17 Mar 2025 / Sun, 30 Mar 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 67 725	On request	NOK 13 315	On request
Sun, 23 Mar 2025 / Sat, 05 Apr 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 67 725	On request	Not available	On request
Thu, 27 Mar 2025 / Wed, 09 Apr 2025	NOK 82 520	On request	Not available	On request
Mon, 31 Mar 2025 / Sun, 13 Apr 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 71 710	On request	Not available	On request
Sun, 06 Apr 2025 / Sat, 19 Apr 2025	NOK 79 670 NOK 75 685	On request	NOK 13 315	On request
Mon, 07 Apr 2025 / Sun, 20 Apr 2025	NOK 79 670	On request	NOK 13 315	On request
Sun, 13 Apr 2025 / Sat, 26 Apr 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 66 585	On request	Not available	On request
Sun, 11 May 2025 / Sat, 24 May 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	On request
Sat, 21 Jun 2025 / Fri, 04 Jul 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	On request
Sun, 14 Sep 2025 / Sat, 27 Sep 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	On request
Sun, 28 Sep 2025 / Sat, 11 Oct 2025	NOK 73 975 NOK 70 275	On request	NOK 11 750	On request
Sun, 05 Oct 2025 / Sat, 18 Oct 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	Not available	On request
Sun, 12 Oct 2025 / Sat, 25 Oct 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	Not available	On request
Sun, 26 Oct 2025 / Sat, 08 Nov 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	Not available	On request
Sun, 02 Nov 2025 / Sat, 15 Nov 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	NOK 11 750	On request
Sun, 09 Nov 2025 / Sat, 22 Nov 2025	NOK 73 975	On request	NOK 11 750	On request

Ancient & Modern Japan

Overview

Itinerary

Photos

Important Information

Prices / Dates