Overview
Experience Japan’s rich history, traditions, and modern culture on a journey from Tokyo to Osaka. Explore ancient temples and shrines, learn new skills during a Japanese cooking class, and experience the excitement of Tokyo Disneyland. Travel by bullet train to Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima, where students discover important cultural landmarks and reflect on the lasting impact of World War II at Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Visit Miyajima before concluding the journey among Osaka’s historic sites, markets, and lively districts.
Itinerary
Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima
- Cultural Exploration
Day 1
Flight to Japan (Tokyo)
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 2
Tokyo guided sightseeing tour
Tokyo is a city of contrasts, where neon lights mix with tranquil temples and cutting-edge technology blends with age-old traditions. With your local guide, start at Senso-ji Temple, where incense smoke is believed to heal. Continue to the Meiji Shrine, honouring Emperor Meiji and his empress, then explore the vibrant Harajuku District, famed for bold fashion and youth culture.
Japanese cooking class
Under the instruction of a professional chef, prepare, eat, and enjoy a traditional Japanese meal.
Day 3
Tokyo Disneyland visit
Get set for a magical time at Tokyo Disneyland. Tickets subject to availability.
Day 4
Travel to Kyoto via Shinkansen bullet train
Jump on the fastest train in the world and zip to Kyoto aboard the Shinkansen “bullet” train. First inaugurated in 1964, it has been continually improved and now travels up to 322 kilometres per hour. Using advanced aviation technology to reduce wind resistance and noise, the train offers a safe, comfortable, and incredibly fast ride.
Nara excursion
Discover Nara, where history and tradition come to life. At Todai-ji Temple, marvel at the 50-foot bronze Buddha, dedicated in AD 752, and learn the story of its symbolic “eye-opening.” Continue to Kasuga Grand Shrine, famed for its thousand bronze lanterns. Conclude with a stroll through Nara Deer Park, home to wild deer once regarded as messengers of the gods and still protected as a national treasure.
Day 5
Kyoto guided sightseeing tour
One of Japan’s best-preserved imperial cities, Kyoto, is home to more than 2,000 temples and shrines. Visit Kinkaku-ji, the famed Golden Pavilion, whose top floors gleam with gold leaf above a reflective pond. Continue to Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of bright red torii gates wind up the hillside. Conclude at Sanjusangendo Temple, with its hall of 1,000 life-size guardian statues.
Okonomiyaki dinner
Enjoy an okonomiyaki dinner and experience one of Japan’s popular culinary traditions. This savoury dish combines a batter with a variety of ingredients cooked together and topped with flavourful sauces for a memorable taste of Japanese cuisine.
Day 6
Travel to Hiroshima via bullet train
Hiroshima guided excursion
Tour Hiroshima, a city that endured unimaginable destruction and has since experienced an inspiring rebirth. At Peace Memorial Park, visit the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, preserved as a reminder of the devastation of 1945. The park and museum stand as symbols of peace and memorials to those lost. Conclude with a visit to Shukkei-en Garden, a serene 17th-century retreat.
Yakisoba dinner
Enjoy a yakisoba dinner and experience a popular Japanese noodle dish. Made with stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and a savoury sauce, yakisoba offers a flavourful introduction to Japanese cuisine.
Day 7
Miyajima excursion
Take a ferry to the sacred island of Miyajima, passing the iconic red Torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine. Meet the island's famous free-roaming deer, then explore Omotesando Street's craft shops, bakeries, and street food, with the chance to sample local specialities like conger eel.
Day 8
Travel to Osaka by train
Osaka guided sightseeing tour
Osaka’s 16th-century castle, renovated in 1997, anchors the city’s historic past even as futuristic architecture pushes it forward. Take in sweeping views from the Umeda Sky Building’s Floating Garden Observatory, rising 168 metres above the skyline. Then dive into the city’s vibrant food culture at Kuromon Market before strolling through the neon lights and lively canals of the Dotonbori District.
Day 9
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing in October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more meaningful learning moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Select transport options that suit your group's needs
- Choose from a variety of accommodation styles to support your level of comfort
Dine Your Way
- Choose pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2 course meals at local restaurants or at your accommodation, with the option to upgrade to 3 courses
Inclusions
Accommodations
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to and from your destination
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Daily meals with options varying by program
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding multi-day bus drivers)
Entrance fees to attractions as per itinerary
Guided sightseeing tours and city walks as per itinerary
Scenes from Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima
Health, Safety & Protection
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
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