Begin an unforgettable journey through the legendary land of Japan, starting in the vibrant heart of Tokyo. As the world’s largest metropolis, Tokyo’s wonders are just waiting to be explored. After checking in at your hostel and unwinding, rendezvous with your fellow adventurers and head out to experience the enchanting nocturnal charm of this bustling city. Journey to Shinjuku, where neon lights illuminate the streets and the energy of the city pulses through the air. Shinjuku’s reputation for eccentric bars and lively nightlife ensures an exhilarating experience. Remember to pack your dancing shoes, your most spirited attire, and a positive mindset – for tonight promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

Accommodation: Grids Hostel | Tokyo

Get ready for an exhilarating day in Tokyo. Kick things off with a visit to the iconic Senso-Ji temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most breathtaking, enveloped in vibrant red architecture. With train rides as your main mode of transportation today, grab some maps and acquaint yourself with the local area. Explore highlights like Akihabara, the electric town, catering to anime enthusiasts and gamers alike. If that doesn’t pique your interest, indulge in delectable street food like takoyaki or yakisoba – a culinary must. After a day of exploration, gear up for a night out, Japanese style, with a thrilling Sake tasting experience.

Accommodation: Grids Hostel | Tokyo

Get excited to see more of Tokyo’s incredible hidden gems. Visit the iconic Meiji Shrine, a century-old homage to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Marvel at its grandeur, snap some photos, and immerse yourself in its serene surroundings. Next stop: Yoyogi Park and the lively Harajuku shopping district. As night falls, dine and unwind, enjoy Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife, and see where the night takes you.

Accommodation: Grids Hostel | Tokyo
Meals included: Lunch

Travel in style today as you say farewell to Tokyo and embark on your journey to Osaka. Aboard the bullet train, enjoy scenic views as the landscape passes you by at 200mph. Upon arrival, delve into Osaka’s rich history with a visit to the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of power dating back to 1586. Then, immerse yourself in the vibrant neon streets of Dotonbori, exploring its dazzling sights and indulging in local street food. As night falls, savour colourful cocktails amidst the glowing city lights.

Accommodation: Hotel Imano | Osaka

Wake up and seize the day in Osaka. Dive into the morning exploring the city before diving into the art of sushi making – a challenge worth embracing. After unleashing your culinary creativity, savour what you’ve made for lunch. As the day unfolds, continue your exploration of the city’s wonders before indulging in a delightful dinner to cap off the evening.

Accommodation: Hotel Imano | Osaka

Start your morning with a coffee, it’s time to travel to Koyasan. A journey involving a local train, cable train, and a bus lands you at your next destination: a traditional Japanese temple. Prepare for a legendary experience as you spend the night here. Immerse yourself in local culture and temple customs for an authentic stay. Explore nearby temples before gathering for a traditional dinner as a group. As night falls, join a walking tour of Japan’s oldest cemetery, where stories and history await. Don’t worry, it’s more serene than spooky – grab a friend and delve into the past.

Accommodation: Koyasan Temple Stay
Meals included: Dinner

Ready for an unforgettable day? Start the morning with a traditional fire ceremony, Goma taki, to ignite your zen spirits by purifying your desires. Then, it’s off to Kyoto! But first, a traditional breakfast and morning prayer at a local temple to immerse yourself in the culture. Once you’ve arrived in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, explore the enchanting Gion district, home to geishas and teahouses. After wandering the vibrant streets, partake in a traditional tea ceremony. Finally, stroll along the Kamogawa River, sipping beer as the sun sets on another extraordinary day.

Accommodation: Prince Smart Inn | Kyoto
Meals included: Breakfast

Your first stop today is the awe-inspiring Kinkaku-Ji Golden Temple, a two-story marvel covered in shimmering gold leaf. Built to reflect Kyoto’s opulent past, it now stands as a serene zen temple drawing visitors worldwide. After soaking in the tranquillity, venture to the breathtaking Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a serene paradise of emerald green beauty. The afternoon is yours to explore – whether it’s visiting Nara or cycling through Kyoto’s charming backstreets, the choice is yours.

Accommodation: Prince Smart Inn | Kyoto
Meals included: Breakfast

Get ready for another epic day! Today, delve deep into Japanese culture with temples and samurai. First up, explore Kyoto’s famous Fushimi-Inari temple, renowned for its mesmerising red torii gates. After soaking in the sights, get ready for the main event: a Samurai class! Don traditional robes and learn the art of the sword with a demonstration and hands-on practice. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t soon forget anytime soon.

Accommodation: Prince Smart Inn | Kyoto
Meals included: Breakfast

Today, it’s off to Hakone for the breathtaking sights of Lake Ashi and the iconic Mount Fuji. After a chilled morning, ride the ropeway cable car for panoramic views. At Lake Ashi, board a pirate ship for a unique exploration. Mount Fuji is one of the most notable symbols of Japan and offers stunning snow-capped views. Enjoy your evening in Hakone after an awe-inspiring day.

Accommodation: Toyoko Inn | Hakone
Meals included: Breakfast

After an adventure-filled day yesterday, today you can rest up as you travel back to Tokyo. Enjoy a final day of exploring and making the most of Tokyo’s exciting bars with a farewell group dinner.

Accommodation: Grids Hostel | Tokyo
Meals included: Breakfast

It’s time to say goodbye for now. Your guide will be there to help you plan the next steps. We know you’ve had an incredible journey ticking off some epic bucket list destinations and experiences, so what’s next?

Cancellation & Refund Policy: Refunds will be processed according to the following time frames:

Cancellations more than 60 days: Loss of deposit.

Cancellations 60 days of less: 100% of trip cost.

Free airport pickup is provided if arriving less than 48 hours before the start of the tour and booked the pre-nights directly with TruTravels at the start hotel.

If you’re arriving the day of the tour you will also be eligible for airport pick up.

The trip starts and finishes in Tokyo.

You can fly into either Haneda International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT.)

There are many options as Japan’s public transport is frequent. You can jump on a bus from the airport, take the monorail or jump in a taxi! The hostel is around 40 minutes from Haneda airport and 1 hour 15 minutes from Narita Airport.

The closest airport to the end destination is Haneda International Airport (HND).

The accommodation on this trip is shared dorms except for Koyasan where you stay in a traditional temple and rooms can accommodate up to 4 people.

Everyone spends differently so it’s hard to give an exact amount but we recommend £70/$140+ per day. All your activities, transport and accommodation is covered so you just need to worry about your food, drink and shopping! Please note we can not be held responsible if you start popping bottles of champagne on the first night and run out of money.

Bring some cash to use for the first few days. You will also need cash if you are travelling to the start accommodation by train. There are plenty of ATMs all over Japan where you can withdraw money as you go so you don’t have to carry huge sums of cash around. The main currency used in Japan is the Yen (¥.) Make sure to let your bank know that you will be travelling abroad and to check for any international charges for using your card.

Yes! You’re protected. TruTravels is both ABTA and ATOL registered meaning your money is safe.

Most of the people that join on tour are 18-thirtysomethings! There is an upper age limit of 45 on these tours.

Yes! Let us know when you are booking your trip about any requirements you might have so the team can plan ahead and make sure this doesn’t affect your trip!

Yes, lots of people come on these trips as solo travellers, it’s a great way to meet new people and you’ll never feel alone from the moment you arrive as you will instantly be travelling with an awesome group of likeminded people.

Yes, the majority of travellers will be travelling on their own! Roughly 65% of TruTravellers come solo! These trips are designed specifically with solo travellers in mind, so you can be assured you’ll meet lots of others travelling alone like yourself along the way. This of course doesn’t mean trips are only for solo travellers, but it does mean that you don’t need to worry you’ll be surrounded by a group that already knows each other.