Hiroshima (Japan) | Kanazawa (Japan) | Osaka (Japan) | Tokyo (Japan)
There are not currently any Tokyo To Osaka: Neon-Lit Cities & Tranquil Countryside tour dates available from G Adventures, for the selected year.
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Arrive in the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo and head to your starting hotel around 4:00 pm, with the afternoon free to settle in and take in your first impressions of the city. There are no scheduled activities until the evening, giving you time to rest after your journey or explore the neighbourhood at your own pace.
There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting, so we recommend arrival time to be no later than 3PM. Please ensure you arrive on time for the welcome meeting and bring your passport so your CEO can collect the required information for your train tickets. Refer to your voucher for the most up to date welcome meeting time.
The most convenient way to get around Japan is by public transportation and on foot. The country's train system is often considered one of the best in the entire world so the majority of our trips utilize this efficient train network. In this tour, you will need to be able to spend the majority of the day on your feet and carry your luggage through busy train stations and streets. On average, tours in Japan walk about 15,000 steps a day. Please ensure you are fit enough to carry your own luggage and spend most of the day on your feet.
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Head out to explore the serene grounds of Meiji Shrine and the vibrant streets of Harajuku, with free time for lunch at your own expense to sample the city's incredible food scene. Later, board the Shinkansen and journey through Japan at high speed. Arrive in Kanazawa and head out to explore. The evening is free for an orientation walk around the hotel area, with the option to join an optional group dinner or explore local restaurants independently at your own pace.
Please note that the new JR Pass validation policy asks travellers to come to the office counter to activate their JR Pass.
Step into the heart of Tokyo's cultural and creative spirit with a visit to the serene Meiji Shrine and the vibrant streets of Harajuku. Wander beneath towering torii gates and through peaceful forested pathways at Meiji Jingu, one of Tokyo's most important Shinto shrines, before emerging into the colorful energy of Harajuku. Here, trendy boutiques, quirky cafes, and fashionable streets like Takeshita Street showcase the city's cutting-edge youth culture and unique style.
Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
Spend the evening getting know Kanazawa. Opt to attend a group dinner at a local restaurant.
Spend the day uncovering the refined charm of Kanazawa, beginning in its beautifully preserved geisha quarter, where wooden teahouses and narrow lanes in the Higashi Chaya District evoke the atmosphere of a bygone era. Continue on to the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, widely regarded as one of Japan's most celebrated landscape gardens, where ponds, bridges, seasonal flowers, and sweeping pathways create a perfect harmony of design and nature. After exploring the gardens, you may choose to visit one of Kanazawa's many museums or dive deeper into the city's traditional crafts scene. For a taste of local flavour, head to the lively Omicho Market, where fresh seafood and regional specialties showcase the best of the city's culinary heritage.
Step back in time with a visit to the Higashi Chaya geisha district of Kanazawa. Learn about the geisha culture, prevalent in Kanazawa since the 17th century. Visit the traditional two-story wooden houses decorated with lattice and discover the traditions behind this iconic Japanese way of life.
Walk around this breathtaking garden, ranked one of the top three in Japan. With unique bridges, ponds and fountains, pagodas and tea houses there's lots to see here in any season.
Enjoy some free time to explore the vibrant streets and hidden corners of Kanazawa at your own pace. Wander through atmospheric neighbourhoods, discover local cafes and shops, or simply soak in the city's relaxed blend of tradition and creativity.
Enjoy a relaxed free morning in Kanazawa before continuing your journey south by train to Hiroshima. Opt to join a visit to the lively Omicho Market, where fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and local specialties offer a true taste of the region. Alternatively, enjoy your own independent adventure through Kanazawa's streets at your own pace before regrouping for the onward journey.
Enjoy a relaxed free time to explore the charm and character of Kanazawa at your own pace.
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, not far from the coast.Here, view one of the most photographed sights in Japan- the floating Torii Gate. The shrine itself dates back to the 6th century and is designed in a pier-like structure.Enjoy time to explore the island and its many shrines and temples. Sample local treats like maple leaf shaped cakes, and opt to hike up to the peak of the island, Mt Misen, to see spectacular views of the surrounding islands.
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Take a trip to Miyajima Island, famed as one of Japan's most scenic spots, with a free afternoon to explore. See the famous floating Torii Gate, set out in the bay, which glows extraordinarily at sunset. The island is dotted with shrines and temples, populated by deer, and traversed with hiking trails for those who want to get some exercise. There are also lanes full of souvenirs and tasty treats. Visit Miyajima at your own pace, and have the option to hike up to the peak of the island, Mt Misen, to see spectacular views of the surrounding islands.
Spend free time however you choose. Opt to hike, try the region's famed oysters, or check out the important sights and museums.
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Start the day in Hiroshima with a meaningful visit to the moving Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the powerful exhibits at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, reached via local tram. Continue your journey beyond the city and travel into the countryside, arriving at Kitahiroshima Town, where you will be welcomed and transferred by your traditional village stay. Settle into your accommodation, take time to meet your hosts and get familiar with your surroundings. In the evening, share a homemade dinner with locals and experience everyday life in the countryside. After dinner, enjoy free time to relax, unwind, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before bed.
Walk through the Peace Park in the centre of Hiroshima, a living memorial dedicated to the tens of thousands who died from the atomic bomb blast in 1945. Visit the statue of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who died of leukemia as a result of the bomb blast, despite folding 1,000 origami paper cranes to appeal to the gods to make her well. See the frame of the Gembaku Dome, the sole building to withstand the explosion. Reflect, remember, and be reminded of the power we all hold to create peace.
Travel into the peaceful countryside surrounding Hiroshima for a memorable overnight stay in a traditional village stay. Here, you'll step into a slower rhythm of life, sharing dinner with locals, learning about their daily routines, and experiencing genuine rural hospitality firsthand. It's a rare opportunity to connect with the heart of Japan through its people, food, and countryside traditions.
Wake up in the countryside and start your day with a relaxed walk around the old farmhouse, taking time to visit with local farmers and experience everyday rural life. Enjoy a slow, authentic start to the day before saying farewell to your hosts and boarding the bus back toward the city, where you will continue your journey by Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Osaka. On arrival, head out to explore the vibrant streets of Dotonbori. Enjoy a lively street food lunch, neon-lit canal views, and free time to wander Osaka's bustling entertainment district at your own pace.
Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
Head into the energetic heart of Osaka and dive into its famous street food culture with a local-style lunch on the go. Afterwards, explore the vibrant Dotonbori district, where neon lights, canal-side walkways, and endless food stalls create one of Japan's most iconic urban experiences. Sample local favourites, soak up the lively atmosphere, and enjoy free time to wander at your own pace through this buzzing entertainment hub.
Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Osaka at your leisure.
Depart at any time and enjoy the freedom to shape your final moments in Osaka at your own pace. We strongly recommend booking post-accommodation so you can linger a little longer and fully soak in Osaka's unforgettable energy before you move on.
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Tokyo To Osaka: Neon-Lit Cities & Tranquil Countryside tour:
Max 15, avg 12.
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and GroupYour Foodie Moment: Local Street Food Tour in Osaka, Osaka. Free morning in Tokyo. Visit Meiji Shrine and Harajuku. Orientation walk in Kanazawa. Guided visit to Higashi Chaya District. Kanazawa city tour including Kenroku-en Garden. Free afternoon in Kanazawa. Miyajima Island visit including Itsukushima Shrine and Floating Torii Gate. Free time in Hiroshima. Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum visit. Dotonbori street food and exploration. Free day in Osaka. Japan Rail (JR) pass. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Ride the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kanazawa and wander its preserved Edo-period streets, Hike through the atmospheric Arashiyama Bamboo Grove on the outskirts of Kyoto, Cross to Miyajima Island and photograph the torii gate rising from the sea, Visit Hiroshima Peace Park - a deeply moving chapter in Japan's modern history, Swap city life for a night in a traditional rural farmhouse with a local family
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Kanazawa- Kanazawa Castle Visit (Free-320JPY per person)- Nagamachi Samurai District Walk- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art (450-1200JPY per person)- Myoryuji Ninja Temple Visit (1200JPY per person)- Omicho Market TourMiyajima- Mt. Misen Visit (Free-2000JPY per person)
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (6 nts), village stay (1 nt).
1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Eating is a big part of traveling. G Adventures knows that worldwide, local cuisines define the cultures. We think sampling regional delicacies are intrinsic to truly experiencing the country. We want you to be able to try foods according to your individual tastes, comforts, and budgets.Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility. At times, meals will be taken together as a group. Other times, your CEO will point you in the direction of several delicious options, and you will have free time to pick and choose at will. Often in Japan it is fun to get some snacks and beverages with the salarymen in the evenings at small restaurants, and other times it is fun to sit with a few friends at a sushi train. Your CEO will always strive to cater for all dietary requirements/preferences, but please keep in mind that Vegetarianism/Veganism is very uncommon in Japan so this may mean a more limited selection for you.Please refer to the Meals Included and Budget Information for information regarding included meals on your trip. Japan's kitchen is at your fingertips!
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
Bullet train, local train, private vehicle, public bus, subway, tram, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples, mosques or other holy sites.
Cold weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layersConservative Dress:o Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)o Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Light Hiking:o Hiking bootso Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)o Walking poles Warm weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
It’s essential to pack as lightly as possible for rail travel in Japan. All G Adventures tours use the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains, which have a restriction on maximum luggage size.Any luggage brought on board must be less than 160cm in total (calculated as the sum of the height + width + depth of your luggage). This is roughly the size that most airline companies consider as "carry-on baggage" and allow in overhead storage compartments. We strongly recommend bringing a day pack or backpack to use during the day (for daily essentials like water, cameras, passport, etc.).Please note that travellers who bring luggage that exceeds this restriction will be directly penalized by the Central Japan Railway Company. Any luggage between 160–250cm will require a fee of 1,000 JPY per luggage, for each leg of your train journey, and is strictly subject to availability. Any luggage over 251cm in total is prohibited on the Shinkansen trains.If you absolutely must bring more than what fits into a single carry-on bag plus day pack, you may bring a second carry-on bag which also must be less than 160cm in total. Please note, however, that as with all G Adventures tours, you must be able to carry your luggage unassisted.You will also be walking with your luggage in busy public train stations to catch connecting trains, so it is highly recommended that you travel light and have easy to handle luggage and capable of walking up and down the stairs with your luggage without any assistance. A large bag will be an inconvenience to you and will slow you down!We recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. You will also need a day-pack/rucksack to carry daily essentials like water, cameras, passport, i-pods etc.Takuhaibin - Japan’s takuhaibin service is a convenient and reliable way to transfer luggage from one location to another throughout the country. Pick-up/drop-off/delivery dates and times can be easily scheduled (usually overnight) and costs are moderate. Service can be arranged at most hotels and airports. Using Takuhaibin to send your luggage between hotels, or from hotel to airport, is a great way to travel light and avoid hauling large bags on crowded trains or up and down stairs – just be sure to pack an overnight bag with everything you’ll need until you’re reunited with your luggage the following day.
Standard: Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
Tipping for service is not practiced in Japan. Leaving money at restaurants, in taxis etc will simply cause confusion.Tipping within the travel industry is standard to recognize the guide for a great experience. Our CEOs work hard to make your trip special. If you’re happy with their service, a tip of $5–$7 per day is a great way to say thanks, though the final amount is completely up to you.