Start Location: Tokyo

Finish Location: Hiroshima

Country: Japan

Group Size: 2 to 16

Trip Style: Signature

 

Joining Point 

Keihan Asakusa
Address: 2 Chome-12-4 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

Phone: +81358300321

 

Finishing Point

The Royal Park Hiroshima Riverside
Address: 730-0014 Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Naka-ku Kaminobori-cho 7-14, Japan

Phone: + 81822111111

 

Essential trip information

Please note Arrival and Departure transfer are not included in this trip

 

TRIP INFORMATION:

Slip in through an incongruity that is Japan and look for consistencies that are often found in irregular patterns – neon signs and Shinto shrines, busy streets and tranquil bamboo groves, high tech offerings of modernism juxtaposed against meditative gardens – these are the recurrent motifs that appear and compel you to understand the country like never before, on this our ten day tour of Japan.

DAY 1

TOKYO

Welcome to Tokyo! Walk right into the easy smile of our representative who’ll be at the airport to greet you, as well as assist with your transport to the hotel. Step out to feel the beat of one of the world’s most modern cities or if you wish to save the experience for later, you’re welcome to kick back at your accommodation. Anyhow, make sure you meet your tour leader at 6 pm to get an inside view of the tour and log in a few pre-tour formalities. 

Accommodation: Keihan Asakusa or similar

Included Activities: 

Included Meals: Dinner

Optional Activities: 

DAY 2

TOKYO

Braid together a sense of wonder and reverence as you start the morning at Asakusa District. Mingle with the hopefuls who cup the smoke rising from an Incense Vat and toss coins as a symbolic gesture of non-attachment at the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s most famous shrine dating back to the 7th century. Negotiate the warren of lanes whose tourist accoutrements seem strangely at odds with the nature of the place but become significantly more understandable after learning its history. Stop at the Asakusa Shrine, a perfect example of the Edo Era style shrine and then make your way through a forested area specked with blue irises that usher you into the folds of the most famous shrines of them all, the Meiji-jingu. Get a sense of history, etiquette and much more as you visit these sites and cap it all off in the evening by giving your arms and body a workout as you try your hand at learning how to play the intensely satisfying Taiko Drums. 

Accommodation: Keihan Asakusa or similar

Included Activities: Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Meiji-jingu Shrine, Taiko Lesson

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activities: Nil

 

DAY 3

KAWAGUCHI

Begin the day by drifting through the dreamy glades and tall cedars that stand sentinel to the Asama Shrine. Wander around the shrine’s complex-flitting between myths, legends, history and an occasional gaze at Japan’s most famous mountain as it slips in and out of visual range as if in a childish game of hide and seek. Indulge in the game yourself, as you seek the best spots to view the mountain and then descend to Lake Kawaguchi for some additional sight seeing. Once you’ve covered the ground for today, find out – even if it is a fraction – of what it means to be Japanese as you sink into a traditional style inn, complete with an onsen and traditional food.

Accommodation: Mifujien or similar

Included Activities: Asama Shrine, Mt. Fuji viewpoint, Lake Kawaguchi

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Optional Activities: Nil

 

DAY 4

KANAZAWA

Spend a relaxed morning as you await your departure to Kanazawa on board that quintessential Japanese experience – the Shinkansen or bullet train. As soon as you get to your destination, head for the covered Omicho market where shops and stalls stand cheek-to-jowl and display an array of fresh vegetables, fruits, flowers and clothing among other things. Existing since the Edo period, the most decidedly popular item on sale here is the fresh seafood so make sure you exercise your taste buds either at a stall or one of the more popular/busy restaurants here. Head for the Higashi Chaya District next and walk right into a world that screams “OLD” from the onset. Indeed the narrow pedestrian way lined by two storied wooden buildings with lattice on the bottom remains, for the most part, just as it was 200 years ago. Explore this quaint section of an ageless Japan; get an insight into the life of a Geisha – contemporary and ancient – and perhaps even watch a performance if you’re fortunate enough. 

Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa or similar

Included Activities: Omicho Market, Higashi Chaya District

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activities: 

DAY 5

KANAZAWA

Pull the covers off of a Kanazawa dawn and travel to the fairy tale setting of Shirakawa-go, a tiny hamlet snuggled in the folds of the Japanese Alps. Climb on board the Observation Deck and get a birds eye view of the wooded expanse, rice fields and the slanted thatched roofs that are a feature of the village before walking along the paths, observing the slow pace of life, learning the fascinating architecture and its history that makes it such a travellers favourite. Return to Kanazawa and unravel other attractions of the area including the Myoryuji Ninja Temple, the 16th century Kanazawa Castle and the exquisite Kenrokuen Garden that truly is a work of art. Pay your respects at the Oyama Shrine dedicated to the first lord of the Maeda clan, and then take your final strides through the Nagamachi Samurai District which still retains narrow canals, cobble-stoned pathways and a glimpse into the old world, especially at the Nomura Samurai Family residence. 

Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kanazawa or similar

Included Activities: Myoryuji Temple, Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, Oyama Shrine, Nagamachi Samurai District, Nomura Samurai Family Residence

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activities: Nil

 

DAY 6

KYOTO 

Travel approximately 2.5 hours on the southward bound express train to Kyoto this morning. On arrival, take things at a fairly relaxed paced as you stroll about the neighbourhood. Let the day lengthen as you drop by the grounds of Otowa Waterfall whose water filters down to the 8th Century Kiyomizu Temple, which itself lies couched in cherry blossom and maple trees. Take in the Shinto shrines as you walk around the premises as well as the main hall that reveals a view of downtown Kyoto. Later, as the evening settles down on the city, hitch your togs up and prepare to walk along the Gion Area renowned for its maikos (geisha in training) and geishas. Keep the Kama Gawa River for company as you stop en route at some of the famous sites that include the Yakasa Shrine and Minami-za Kabuki Theatre until you finally end up for dinner with a Geisha or Maiko. Get an insight into the lives of these women, their place in history, how they’ve evolved to suit the contemporary world and what the future lies for them. 

 

Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo or similar

Included Activities: Kiyomizu Temple, Gion Night Walking Tour followed by Dinner with Geisha/Maiko 

Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Optional Activities: 

DAY 7

KYOTO

Start the day by walking along the gardens of the Kinkaku-ji Temple, which sits on the edge of a shimmering pond and seems protected by the warm embrace of Japanese maples and pine trees. Originally built in the 14th century, its gilded exterior is its immediate attraction but the technical finesse of its structure and its storied past gives it more substance than is evidenced. Discover these elements of the temple and then move onto another visual treat as you cross over to the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Step off and glide into an easy pace as you make your way from the Tenryu-ji Temple and walk through a mystic world of emerald green bamboos that stand silently and invariably invite from you an involuntary grab at your camera. Take the afternoon off and discover more of Kyoto on your own. Take pointers from your tour leader as to what’s available and what can be done. Your tour leader will be happy to assist!

 

Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shijo or similar

Included Activities: Kinkaku-ji Temple, Arashiyama

Included Meals: Breakfast 

Optional Activities: Kimono, Tea Ceremony, Samurai Experience

Day 8

HIROSHIMA

Dive into a blur of vermillion coloured Torii gates this morning as you visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine and then walk along the cobbled pathway past the many figurines and statues of foxes that are considered to be the messengers of the God of rice and harvest. Make a wish at a pair of stone lanterns; linger awhile on your way back in this strange but visually satisfying ambience before boarding the Shinkansen to Hiroshima. On arrival at the city, make a beeline for the Hiroshima Castle that acts as a museum and makes for a great starting point to understand the history of the city. Later in the day, pay a visit to the Peace Memorial Park to pay homage to the victims of the infamous event that unfolded in 6th August 1945. Learn about the brutal effects of the bombing, its aftermath and the story of Sadako Sasaki (along with thousands of other children) and her association with the Tower of a Thousand Cranes. 

Accommodation: The Royal Park Hiroshima Riverside or similar

Included Activities: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Hiroshima Castle, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activities: Nil

DAY 9

HIROSHIMA

Watch the famous vermillion coloured Torii Gate emerge out of the Seto Inland Sea and take shape as you approach the sacred island of Miyajima this morning. Disembark and soft foot it through the walkways and bridges that link the sections of Itsukushima Shinto Shrine that seemingly floats on water, especially during the high tide. Explore the several halls of the shrine and the gardens keeping an eye out for the occasional wild deer. If you’re lucky enough you might encounter a stage performance of traditional dance and music. Get your heart ticking up a notch during the latter half of the day as you negotiate a hike up to Mt. Misen. Get rewarded with beautiful views once you get to the top and perhaps even listen to the stories of Kobo Daishi, founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, who frequented the place during his years of pilgrimage. Close the day out by taking the short ferry ride back to Hiroshima and then lighting up the night over a last dinner.

Accommodation: The Royal Park Hiroshima Riverside or similar

Included Activities: Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, Mt. Misen Hike

Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Optional activities: 

 

DAY 10

DEPARTURE DAY

If you’ve booked a transfer, please be sure to inform your tour leader or the hotel reception in advance to ensure a smooth passage to the airport.

Included Meals: Breakfast

 

Itinerary disclaimer

 

Itinerary Changes

The itineraries for One World Adventures are updated on a regular basis during the year, reflecting the current situation in each of our destinations and customer feedback. Information that forms the Essential Trip information may vary from your initial booking and it is vital that you read and review the information provided before your departure. This will provide you with the latest information. Your itinerary may change once you’re in the country- as a result of transport schedules, changes in weather conditions, public holidays and varying local conditions. To ensure our guests have the best experience, the scheduled activities in each location may vary in order and time depending on the season travelled. Your tour leader will inform you of any changes once on the trip.

 

Optional Activities

Our optional activities selected have been popular with past guests and are listed in the itinerary. This list is only some of the activities you can enjoy and should be used as a guide only to what is available. Prices are for entry only and do not include transport to and from the sites or local guides. Prices are approximate and the activities are subject to availability. Some activities maybe on a join-in basis. It is not possible to participate in all the activities listed due to the limited time in each destination. Planning ahead and choosing the activities that suit you is highly recommended.

Pre-booking recommendations for activities will be noted in the Special information listed in the daily itinerary. Usually, activities can be organized independently on the day or alternatively inform your tour leader and they can assist you make the arrangements.

We have assessed and sighted the credentials and safety of the operators chosen for medium and high risk activities and work closely with them. As such, medium to high risk activities not listed in the itineraries (that may be less expensive) are not recommended as we cannot guarantee there quality or safety. Therefore, our staff or tour leaders will not assist you with organizing these activities. It is at your own risk and discretion if you decide to participate in activities not listed in the itinerary.

 

Feedback

We value the important feedback received by our past guests. All feedback is read and improvements to our itineraries and destinations are made. Share your experiences and let future guest gain valuable insight into One World Adventures.oneworldadventures.com/feedback

 

Emergency Contact Information and Issues.

Our aim is to provide the best possible experience for your holiday. Due to the nature of travel and the places we visit, not everything will always go to plan. If issues arise on your tour, please inform your tour leader or local representative so we can try and rectify the issue at the time. This will help mitigate any negative impact on the rest of your trip.

Unfortunately, a resolution to the problem may not be achieved to your satisfaction- in this event please inform your tour leader that you wish to speak to their direct manager.

We recommend guests provide online feedback within 30 days of finishing your trip, acknowledging that it is very difficult to provide practical assistance once the trip is completed. Letting us know at the time allows us to try and resolve any issues promptly.

 

Passport

International travel requires a valid Passport with at least six months validity. Your passport details are required for the completion of your booking. It is important that you ensure that the name on your passport matches exactly the name on your booking and airline tickets. Contact us immediately if they do not so errors can be corrected.It is highly recommended that you carry copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you and also leave copies with family or friends in case required.

 

Visas

All visa requirements are the responsibility of the traveller. Changes to entry requirements may change at any time and therefore, it is import that you check your government’s foreign travel advisories as well as Consular websites for all countries that you are travelling to. This is important so you have the most up to date information that is specific to your nationality and circumstances.Whilst COVID-19 restrictions are in place other sources of visa information available on line may not be up to date or valid.

Once you have booked your trip it is your responsibility to research visa requirements, obtain the necessary documents, now the processing time and application needed for the visas for all countries you are visiting. Visas can take several weeks to process. You can apply directly through a consulate or a booking consultant can advise on a visa processing service.

 

JAPAN VISA
It is not necessary to obtain a Japanese visa for 68 countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, Great Britain, the United States, Canada, Germany, etc. For a complete list of countries, please click here.

https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html

 

Health Screening

If you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home. Contact us to make alternative arrangements.

If you are displaying any symptoms or have any health concerns at this time, we will follow the advice of local health authorities to determine whether medical assistance, isolation or further action is required.

 

Food and Dietary Requirements

Experiencing the different and amazing foods of the places we visit during your tour is part of the experience in travelling. Not all meals are included in the tour price and this allows for flexibility in choice. Choice of where, when and with whom you want to eat with. Your tour leader can provide some recommendations of places to eat and this allows for better budgeting for you.

Please advise any dietary requirements. Our group meals provide an opportunity to try many dishes as well as enjoy the company of your fellow guests.

 

Accommodation

Accommodation during the tour may vary- some may be basic and simple with shared bathroom facilities-some with cold water. Air-condition rooms are available. Some countries experience daily load shedding where the power may be turned off at set times during the day-usually early afternoon. Many of the hotels have cafes or restaurants that serve local meals. Please be aware that some hotels and restaurants may not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.

 

Showers

Hot water peak times for showers are usually morning and evenings in some accommodation. outside these times you may need to speak with the reception to obtain hot water.

 

Room Issues

Addressing any issues with your room requires immediate attention-please speak with the reception or tour leader so issues can be resolved promptly. Speaking with the travel agent will delay the issues being addressed.

 

Transport

Our tours will involve travel on may forms of transport. Theses include- bus, private vehicle, rickshaw and cycle rickshaw, metro, train, taxi, shuttle buses, jeeps,vans, boats-ferries and airplanes. Some of these modes of transportation will no be the same standed as u are use to. One world adventures audit our suppliers regulaly to make shore transportation is off a safe standed

 

Contingency Funds

We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

 

Your Tour Leader

Tipping your tour leader for outstanding service provided to you on your tour is a personal preference and the amount is discretionary. However, as a guide US$3- US$5 per person (in local currency), per day can be used. You are free to tip more or less, depending on how you feel the service was provided. Please remember that tipping is not compulsory and should e given for excellent service. Giving coins, dirty or torn notes or small denominations is considered culturally an insult.

 

Tipping Kitty:

Your tour leader pays for all tips for drivers, local guides and hotel staff only. Restaurant tips are not included nor tips for your tour leader.

 

Spending money:

When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.

 

Commissions:

The receipt of commissions or kickbacks in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the tourism industry. Rather than turning a blind eye to this unavoidable issue in some areas, monies collected will be distributed to local businesses, One World Adventures Charities and to providing sustainable travel.

 

Main Luggage

Depending on the time of year you are travelling, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible. You need to to be able to lift and carry your luggage and walk short distances. This includes up and down stairs and busy railway stations. The smaller your luggage the easier it is to store above or under bunks on overnight trains and public transport. Aim for around 15 kg. Small wheeled suitcases are easy to pick up and carry. Backpacks are also a good option. Our guests find that lighter luggage cause less worry and lead to a more enjoyable trip .

 

Day pack

A small day pack is very useful for carrying your essential items when exploring destinations and for overnight stays.

On overnight trains packing essential items provides ease of access.oneworldadventures.com/packing-list

 

Wifi

As a rule, WiFi is generally available in most parts of the destinations you travel and in the accommodation we use. Most hotels provide free WiFi in public areas but remember charges for in-room Wifi may occur. Always ask your tour leader on arrival to the hotel.

Usually, in tourist areas-most cafes and restaurants will have free WiFi available- always check and ask for passwords when ordering.

 

Tour Leader

One of our tour leaders will accompany you on all our trips. Their role is to take the hassle out of your travels and provide you with the best trip we can. One World Adventures aim to provide the services of an experienced tour leader. However, sometimes a tour leader may be new to a region or training other tour leaders.

Providing general information on the destinations visited, offering suggestions on available sightseeing and activities, recommendations of local places to eat and introducing you to our local friends is there main objective. A broad general knowledge of the historical, cultural, religious and social aspects of the destinations being visited will be provided.

One World Adventures aim to support the local tour guides that have the knowledge of the specific area visited. If you would like more in-depth knowledge of a specific sight nor location , your tour leader can recommend a local guide service for major destinations.

 

Personal Belongings

It is strongly recommended that you use a neck wallet or money belt when travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, airline tickets, cash and other valuable items. Ideally, leave valuable jewellery items t home. Many of our hotels provide safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of safe keeping valuables. A lock for your luggage is recommended.

 

Most National Governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your Government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: 

oneworldadventures.com/safety-policy

 

Free time

Included activities will be supported by your tour leader. However, during your tour there is free time provided to relax, take it easy, pursue your own interests and explore the destination at your own leisure. It is important that your use good judgment when choosing activities during your free time.

Important to note- the tour leader has the authority to cancel or amend any section of the itinerary if deemed necessary for safety concerns.

 

Personal Safety

When travelling in tourist areas and cities there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft.

It is recommended that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and preferably walk together or if alone stay in main areas that are well lit. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

Scams

Scams involving ATM and credit cards, train tickets, taxis, temple donations and tourist guides operate in a lot of countries. If you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to the nearest police station. You may not be able to get your money or goods back- but they can issue you with an official loss report for insurance purposes.

 

Travelling on a group tour

Group travel will expose you to all the pleasures and also the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow guests will likely come from all around the world. We ask you to be understanding of the different needs and preferences of the group. Patience's sometimes a requirement that will benefit everyone’s travel experience.

You too have a responsibility to the group- this includes being on time or at a particular place when requested - this ensures your group isn’t left waiting for you.

The best tours work well when the dynamics of the group work well and everyone is considerate to each other.

Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with the contact details or any personal information about your fellow guests that are booked on your trip-prior to departure.

Solo travellers

One world Adventures is ideal for the solo traveller as they want to meet and share the experience with like-minded people.

Solo travellers will be paired with another traveller that is a the same gender

(as identified on your passport or the information provided in our booking system), so if you identify differently, please let us know in advance. We provide a Single Supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room.

Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour.

All pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will on a single room basis.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our travellers and must be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance must provide cover against adventure activities, personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US $200,000 for each categories of cover. We also recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You alone are wholly responsible for arranging your insurance. The period of cover should start no later than the date you make your booking with us. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company’s 24 hr Emergency contact number on the first day off your trip; You will not be able to join the trip without this. If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number and emergency contact number with you, rather than the bank's name and credit card details.

 

A couple of rules

All travellers have the right to feel safe whilst travelling. One World Adventures do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), sexual harassment-between our guests or involving our tour leaders, partners or local people. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a guest are strictly forbidden. 

Use or possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. We encourage responsible drinking if you choose to consume alcohol when travelling. Abiding by the local laws regarding alcohol consumption is important.

The sex tourism industry is known to exploit vulnerable people and have negative consequences on communities, including undermining the development of sustainable tourism. For this reason, we recommend no participation in this activity.

By travelling with us you are agreeing to adhere to these rules. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our Responsible Travel Guidelines. 

The decision of the tour leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a tour leader, or interfere with the well-being or operation of the tour group, the tour leader may instruct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund.

One World Adventure reserves the right to refuse you participation in any further tours. 

If someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your tour leader or local guide immediately.